Run the Register 2007 - (The Story)

Greetings People

The Run the Register event was a so-so event. This was the second annual time for the event at the “Register” building and a first time for me.

I did not have a clue nor did I know to train for this event. For the past three months I have been sidelined inside because of all the snow and ice that has been on the sidewalks and streets. I can not risk falling down in the snow and breaking a leg or arm or something else.

So, about two weeks ago I picked up a guide for events this year that are scheduled and I saw that this event was going to be this weekend. I played with the idea and wondered how the event was going to be.

With running if you get tired you just run, but it could be a sloppy run, but you can make yourself go, since there is really no exertion except putting one foot in front of the other. With climbing steps my thoughts were if you get tired or whatever you could stop, but you really can not just putter along. You will need to exert force to climb the next step even though you may be tired.

With that thought of logic I knew that I did not want to fail and have to give up on the steps. With a week of training to go (actually only 2 days of training) I decided to go to the local junior high school and practice climbing the stone steps on the bleachers. It was difficult and I was beat. I would like to say that I ran up and down for 15 minutes, but I think in reality it was only a few minutes. I got the idea though and with that I decided to register for the event on Friday.

I was given number 5800 and the start time of 1:04 pm. The event started at 8:00 am and my start time was near the end of the event. The starting time I could care less about. The “plus side” I got out of a later start time was I did not have to get up early.

The day was pretty, not warm, not cold, but a slight chill in Centennial. Though when I got downtown the air was cooler and the wind was blowing.

Inside the building was a mess. People here and there, music was blaring near the entrance and booths were set up in the lobby. I saw the starting area and asked what I needed to do.

I headed over to the bag tag area and got out of warm-up pants and jacket. I stripped down to my Southpark Jersey and running shorts. Instantly, I got the “that’s an awesome jersey” and “I love your jersey”. That put a smile immediately on my face and I also stood an inch higher with pride that I am getting the attention that I need or, to be blunt, I yearn for.

I was nervous a bit so I headed down to the restroom to relieve myself so I do not get any urges on the climb.

I then got to the starting area and was told this and that and whenever I was ready to go – do this. So, I was a bit nervous, hopping from leg to leg, loosening up and getting myself psyched up for the climb. They saw I was a bit nervous and said go when I am ready. There was no one going or waiting so I took another minute or so to get better pumped.

“Okay I am ready” and then I swiped my wrist across a timing mat and took off down the hallway.

I was running up the stairs pretty fast. Even though the website said not to do this since you will get tired out quicker. I did the opposite and not because I was trying to be a “rebel”. I knew that if I did not run out full I was not going to run later since the climb will sap the strength to run later. I had thought I better save something for the very end of the climb, but again I am thinking that there is not going to be any saved strength at the very end. Any sort of quick climb at the end will have to come from somewhere deep in my heart and soul.

I estimate about 8 floors later I was slowing down pretty quick from a run and not to mention I was getting vertigo climbing. I was looking at a point while climbing, but the fixation did not help. I was taking the in view from the side and that is what I think that started the vertigo. So, with me slowing down I think that was the best since the vertigo stopped when my speed slowed and I was not turning each flight quickly.

The stairwell was cool, but I knew that I was going to build up a sweat or definitely raise my inner core temperature to where the coolness of the stairwell would not even be a factor.

I think that around 14th floor I saw the first aid station and I heard “How are you doing?” With me breathing heavily already I had said “this is fucking tougher than I thought it was going to be” with a smile on my face. He responded that I was not the first to say that.

Mind you while I was climbing I was looking at the numbers posted outside each door of the floor. That was a mistake. I kept doing the math in my head and thinking that I have 40 floors to go, 39 floors to go, etc. So, I stopped looking at the numbers each floor.

I felt myself going to stop, but I was “power” climbing. There was no more running at all and at that time I knew there was not going to be any running since I was exerting a lot of energy and was not thinking about saving any energy for the end.

As I climbed higher and higher more aid stations were here and there. I also saw some paramedics at some of the other floors.

Higher and higher I went until the stairwell ended and we had a short hallway to another stairwell up.

Then, I heard someone was approaching from below me. For the life of me I did not want to be passed by someone on the climb. I wanted to say on Monday morning that I did not get passed by anyone.

So, I was breathing good and my stride up the steps were controlled now since I had figured out a method of climbing. Round and round climbing and then I saw from the corner of my eye that the other person was right there. That was motivation enough. I found an inner strength within me a climbed with power in my thighs. I soon left him behind and I could no longer see or hear him below me. Instead I heard someone above me. Lo and behold there were three people standing off the side of the stairwell around the 42nd floor. Wow. I even dug deeper since I knew the top was there and other person was still below me, but where.

The 47th floor and I was out of wind and the lactic acid buildup in my thigh muscles were on fire. I mean on fire. I have not felt this sort of burn for a long time. The 47th floor hallway was littered with other climbers drinking and catching their breath. Meanwhile I did not want to be there with them so I handed over my timing chip and headed out into another area

At that point, I was rewarded with a medal and a view of North Denver that was wow. I stood in line for a photograph, and I got two done and then stood around for a few minutes. What I also noticed where some firefighter in full gear (minus axes) that were standing around. So, some of these guys did the climb in their gear. Pretty neat training I thought.

I was listening to some of them talking and I was smiling on what I heard.

I headed to the elevator since that was the only option to get down. No climbing down the stairs where allowed.

Out in the building lobby almost all the booths were packed up and gone and the few that were left were packing up. I grabbed some items there, a couple of “Monster” drinks and then headed down to the Atrium to get my back and goody bag. I tried to get something to eat from Subways, but all that was left were veggie sandwiches or sandwiches with turkey. There was nothing close to a cold cut combo so I said no to any food and proceeded to go ahead and leave.

That about sums up the event. Yes, I did have fun.

But, the T-shirt from the event was only available if you raise 47 dollars more that the registration fee. I thought that was a load of crap. 47 dollars for a T-shirt was not going to fly for me. Instead, I went over to the movie poster place I usually visit when I am downtown and bought a $ 20.00 Movie poster (subway size) of "The Big Lewbowski” which I now have hanging 0n my dining room wall overlooking the dining room table. Then, I spent the rest of my money on a new Oakley lens, which I got at Cherry Creek Mall later that afternoon. Pretty cool – red frame with blue iridium lens.

If the T-shirt was made available for a better price, lets say $ 20.00 then I would have gotten one. Readers, we serious runners/participants only wear T-shirts when our good clothes are in the laundry. We have special clothing we wear when we train and also when we do the official events. $ 47.00 dollars would have been wasted on a T-shirt that would not of even seen the light of day or public. The event organizers need to understand that. Oh well, my loss for not buying a T-shirt. And it is their loss for not making the price more reasonable since I bought other things that day that would bring just cause for spending the money in the first place.

If the T-shirt making cost for the event was pricy then they need to shop around and find a better place to do the printing of the shirts

And before any of you readers say the money goes for a good cause. I do not disagree, but if you are me and you sponsor and raise all monies for all events that go to causes - I contribute more than I can write off for taxes the following year. How many of you can say that? So, I pick and choose and have earned the right to contribute what money for what causes.

Readers, this is another subject I could go on with, but we can save that for a later blog.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Run the Register 2007

Greetings People

I have no time to write, a late lunch and a meeting really soon and perhaps a busy evening so I may not be able to blog about this. So...

The "Run the Register" was pretty good event for me to try out for the first time. I did not have a clue how stair climbing would be and how hard it was going to be running up the stairs. A very quick race for the $ 35.00 registration fee, but oh well. At least I got to say and show to my co-workers and friends that I got a medal and was able to run up 47 floors in the "Cash Register" building (1,014 steps). Here are the results also in case you need to see. I will have the full story tomorrow.

Dang - I really do not have time today to blog - I saw the OWGE this morning, missed the bus, ran like the wind to light rail train, had a fucked up RTD driver who did not know where the stops and turns were. You see readers, things have gotten off on the wrong foot this morning and sure as shit the day was not going to be pretty.

31 days of Oscar - I will need to update this also - Some more Oscar movies that I saw Ben Hur, American Beauty, Kramer vs. Kramer. Ben-Hur was Spectacular and I made sure that I made the time for the four movie. I am sure that all of us readers at one point have at least flipped to the movie when it has been on TV and well I have done the same thing in the past. So, I knew that the movie was going to be on last Thursday and I got ready beforehand so that nothing could interrupt me from watching this movie. Readers, I highly recommend this movie and let me tell you now - the movie is so much more that the infamous chariot racing. Kramer vs. Kramer was a movie that I saw for the first time. Perhaps. I think I may have seen the movie when I was very,very young and when my mom had to see every Dustin Hoffman movie. It was very good and once more there was so much to the movie that I did not realize. American Beauty - I have seen before and nothing to rant about. I really could care less about Annette Benning.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Taco Bell incident in Lonetree, CO

Greetings People

I was chuckling and had a self-righteous smile all Friday afternoon. My elevated mood was in all probability not the intention you would presume from me nor would you consider a possibility. The good mood was not because of an anecdote, nor a kiss, but Karma. Or conceivably – justice was dispensed. Who the fuck knows, but I just could not suppress reflecting about the incident after our lunch run on the last Friday of February. And I also have to confess that this was just too hilarious. There is ying and yang in the world. Or in one fundamental word – Balance.

LaMont and myself decided to go to “the bell”. “The bell” is also commonly known as Taco Bell. On our drive to the Bell we conversed the customary guy topics. Then, I mentioned I was going to burn a CD and call the CD - the Lamont “Oops I did it again” Remix. Hah hah.

Britney Spears. And yes, I do possess a Britney Spears CD from back in the day for me to produce the “Oops I did again” Remix a reality. Yes readers, to reiterate, I do own the “oops!…I did it again” CD in my extensive CD collection, or if you prefer, I own a CD by Britney Spears. Anyway, I digress.

There was LaMont trash talking Britney Spears and myself for owning a Britney Spears CD. This and that and why the fuck would I own a Britney Spears CD or even admit to owning a Britney CD. You loyal readers understand the chronicles of my fixation with a particular part of Britney’s anatomy. Or if you are a new reader to my existence that is inquisitive in nature and require an explanation to why I own a Britney Spears CD, then you will need to read the other blogs that I have posted on Blogger.com and you will then comprehend why I “love” that part of Britney Spears. LaMont was attempting to make me feel like a total “un-guy” for owning a Britney Spears CD. Sorry readers, this manner of tactic was not going to work with me.

You faithful readers know that I have two pictures of Britney Spears on my “touring” bike helmet and I flaunt around to the universe that I have Britney Spears on my bike helmet. What the fuck is someone going to express, mind you that just words, is going to make me feel less than a guy about me owning a Britney Spears CD.

LaMont could gibber all he wanted about Britney. I was not going to alter my view on her or get embarrassed for admitting this fact. Although with recent events in the past two years my admiration for her has fallen wayside. I saw the infamous photos on the Internet of her night with Paris, but readers the sight was not like winning the lottery. There was no excitement or thrill, but I viewed the photos as another ordinary photo – nothing I have not seen before.

I again digress from the yarn at hand.

We arrived at Taco Bell and decided to go inside and order since the drive thru line was lined up with customers.

This is the point where the afternoon truly commenced. There was an empty parking spot as Lamont pulled into the Taco Bell parking lot and the parking space had LaMont’s name all over it. As LaMont was pulling into the parking space a man walked into the parking space toward his vehicle, which was in the space adjacent to the empty parking space.

This man walked into the parking spot without any acknowledgement to us. This man did not raise a hand and give the “universal sign” of saying sorry or thanks. He walked with a “stupid” stupor and the demeanor of a slightly overweight married husband driving a Subaru Forester.

A Subaru Forester. What? Why of course I know the color – sort of a Jay-z Blue color. What was that? Yes of course he was white – who else would drive a Forester. My married friends that I know of do not even drive anything remotely like a Forester. One drives a Cherokee, another an F-series truck, another A3 BMW, etc. Of these, one is Hispanic, one white and the other black.

I do observe things with such detail when the occasion calls for remembering later. Such as it is right now with me revealing my experiences to you readers. While Lamont and myself were waiting for the man to get into his vehicle, a brief topic ensued. The subject matter was about this man getting in the car. I unhesitatingly mentioned that this man should have done something to acknowledge us. I was not seeking an apology, yet I felt this man should have recognized. However readers, I too would have of stood by for the man, as LaMont was doing, to get into his vehicle. No readers, I would not have given him an unfavorable look or flipped him off, but sure as shit my frame of mind would transform. And not for the better.

Not five seconds after LaMont and me got out of the car; I did not give the “Forester” man another thought. I still had to abide to the standards of being a guest in LaMont’s vehicle and that meant me not taking matters, I deemed “rude”, into my own hands. I am permitted to express my opinions, but I am not allowed to act upon my opinions. Nor would I coerce my guest to share my convictions.

Inside Taco Bell was where the afternoon’s events transpired and inspired this blog. And the sad part of this event – I was not even aware that it happened. LOL.

Sorry readers, I am laughing once more uncontrollably thinking about what had happened which I was not even conscious that was playing out in front of LaMont.

So, Lamont got in line, but the line appeared to me that he was waiting in an area for people waiting to pick up their order. I got a smile when this became evident to me and I said something to the effect that the line is over here. LaMont smiled his “fuck you” smile and sauntered over to where I was standing. I was foremost in line and was waiting for my opportunity to order. Mind you, I was not waiting for the next person to assist me.

Yet readers, there is more to the story than you expect.

There is this one girl that I have noticed previously that works at this Taco Bell. Today, she was working the drive thru window, as she has in the past several times that I have seen her at Taco Bell. Anyway, I am going to confess to you readers she has the “ass” that I think is all so close, in my opinion, of a perfect ass. An ass that I have not seen since I worked down near the Cherry Creek Mall. That part of the body is something I do not hold as something I “require” in a woman. Yet, when I happen to look around and see an “ass” that will… well gets my attention, it is hard not to check out that part of the body.

I just hope I was not too obvious, but it was pretty hard for me not to look since the cashier lady is in front of the drive thru girl. The drive thru girl is about the same height as me, young, and does wear a bit more makeup than she should, but is a person that I could date.

With that foundation of the story laid down for you readers, you see I was sort of pre-occupied with me being next in line for ordering and looking at… well you know. Oh, LaMont also had to point out a lady outside the drive thru window who, according to him, was a looker. You see readers I was multi-tasking and with two of the three tasks including women of a man’s desire; I neglected to notice another cash register lady. Well, let me rephrase that – the other Latino or Hispanic cash register person.

So, I was looking at what I should not be and walked up the counter to the first cash register lady that usually “waits” on me and ordered my five tacos.

Fast-forward an hour, LaMont mentioned that the “second” cash register lady had apparently gave me the “who the fuck are you” look all the time we were in Taco Bell. According to LaMont, her gaze was the look of pure hatred. I do not even have an inkling why I would get such a look. Nor was I aware of this gaze was even taking place in Taco Bell. He even said that I was getting “the look” from the second register lady while he was giving his order to the second cash register lady. Wow.

Returning (re-wind) back to Taco Bell, an hour earlier. I was waiting for my order and also trying to position myself to get a better look at the woman outside the drive thru window. From the angle of where I first was made aware of her I could not see whom this woman was that LaMont had mentioned. I also neglected to notice that LaMont was not really waiting next to me for our orders to come up. I presumed he was getting napkins and stuff, but after the fact I found out he was trying to distance himself from me.

My order came up since I heard “229” and “5 tacos” and then about a minute later LaMont’s order came up. We then left Taco Bell. We were not even three feet outside the door when LaMont mentioned that the second cash register lady was giving me “the look”. I said what look? He said something to the tune of – oh fuck man, you pissed off the other cash register lady by going to the other cash register lady. I laughed, but I was like - so what. I did nothing wrong, one may say I was on my best behavior. For a change.

Oh readers, that is a whole other subject of its own, but I can address that particular fast food topic another time.

Anyway, I did not notice the other lady and apparently I had a negative impression on her. But my faithful readers know that I have a tendency to have that sort of impact on people. I would laugh, but in all seriousness it is true. However, on this particular Taco Bell experience I was not aware of pissing the other lady off. Would I say sorry to her? No. I did not interact with her nor did I give this lady the attention she may be looking for. If my presence ruffled her “feathers” well that’s tough – roll with the punches and get over it.

Readers, I am not into the habit nor am I going to start to acknowledge everyone in this particular Taco Bell. I was hungry, I wanted my order and that’s that. I was not in there to make friends with everyone, even with the sun shining on this particular warm and windy Friday. OK. OK. The young girl would be someone I would not mind to get to know, but that is something only in passing for me. Also, it is just shallow thinking for me when I have to admire a woman by her body alone.

Back at work I was eating my lunch, enjoying my tacos while working. I then had to go visit someone and when I came back to my desk there was LaMont with the look of… well it was not a happy look.

“What?” I asked

“I got sour cream in my taco. When I opened my tacos I saw tomatoes and knew something was wrong and then I saw the sour cream. I fucking hate sour cream.”

I was laughing, but a controlled laughter. It was funny.

“It’s Karma,” I said with a huge smile

“Karma? Fuck you. You pissed her off and I am paying for your insolence to her.”

“It’s not my fault that you did not check your order before you left the counter.”

LaMont was mad, but I was still trying to keep my laughter in check. I did not want to make Lamont any more pissed off that his lunch got fucked up.

Then, what sealed the deal for me was LaMont was scraping the sour cream from his taco with a spoon complaining away. I swear the “tears of laughter” were about to start coming from me really soon. There was LaMont scraping the sour cream out from his taco with such determination. I had already eaten three tacos and I had to offer my other two tacos to him, or to trade. I did feel bad, but it is really his own fault for not checking his order. Yes, he can blame me for his fucked up order, but the blame is all on his shoulders. I started to feel bad, but still laughing silently making it hard to breathe normally once more.

Someone one walked by and saw what was happening and asked what’s going on. I said there was sour cream in LaMont’s taco. Yep, LaMont does not like sour cream he said. Matter of fact, I have a friend when he takes a woman on a date and if she does not eat sour cream or guacamole he would not date her again. I said if woman I were dating was to eat sour cream or guacamole I would not date her again since I would not have that stuff in my humble abode. Meanwhile from LaMont “I can’t believe I am fucking paying for you being rude to that other cashier lady” I started to laugh once more.

Thinking about this event while I was writing this blog – it is justice. For trying to make me feel bad about owning a Britney Spears CD. It is also Karma – we readers do not know LaMont, but he is not as squeaky clean as we would like to think. I am sure that he has his moments for having Karma to wield its vindication that Friday afternoon.

All in all, I offered to give my remaining tacos to him. I did feel bad for what happened, but I do not take any responsibility for what happened. I just did not want his Friday to end on a bad note. Throughout the afternoon I had to make sure we could still laugh and smile about happened. I had to say “Karma” with a smile and also mention I have been laughing off and on all afternoon. LaMont said I better look behind my back while riding – “Karma” will be behind you in a green jeep Cherokee, with nice rims looking for you. Hah hah.

I said “Welcome to my world”

Tomorrow I will re-cap Sunday's Run the Register 2007 event.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Recall on Peanut Butter - 21116306001916A

Greetings People

I have been eating the tainted Peanut Butter! I think that is my excuse as to why I have seemed a bit on edge. Do you think so? I think so. =) Well, I do not remember getting really sick, but I have been sort of "out of whack". Or moody. And looking back at some of my blogs it could be related to some of my views voiced (written).

Of course, this could all be psychological since I was doing OK before I found out that I had the peanut butter that was on the national re-call list. I finished about half the jar and I do not remember feeling any different. I did remember sleeping a lot on those days I did have peanut butter sandwiches, but that could have also been due to me not getting sleep days before. I do not know.

I now have the peanut butter in my back pack and I am going to return the jar for another Peanut Butter jar. I called King Soopers last night and talked to them on what to do. They indicated that all I have to do is return the jar of peanut butter for a refund, but I asked if I could replace the jar with another jar of peanut butter.

The only reason why this came up was I getting ready to make myself a peanut butter sandwich with the last piece of bread (the end of the loaf) and I somehow remembered the news that I saw on t.v. a few days ago (or was it last week?) No, I did not pay attention to the news, hence why I called King Soopers to verify the numbers that are the contaminated jars. Sure enough I said "2111" and that was a mild shock when he said "yep you got a contaminated jar of peanut butter". I got a bit worried, but then thought more of it. If I had not gotten very ill, then I am all right. I am all that and a bag of chips. My immune system is up to par. etc. You get the drift readers. Yet, the awful thing was that I really, really wanted to have a peanut butter sandwich last night and was so tempted to spread some on my last piece of bread.

But.

I know, and some of you faithful readers know me, that tempting "the gods" could be very unwise, so to speak. Dealing with a possible food poisoning was too much of a risk to say "it did not get me the first few times, why should I get it this time". "The gods" or the people who on Sunday probably thought ill-thoughts about me might have their wish bestowed upon me thrice-fold. LOL.

Yes, I have had food poisoning before and it was no picnic - from raw ground beef. I was sick, very sick. Running a fever, not sleeping thoroughly, sweating sickly, going to visit the "porcelain throne" and then after three days I was able to have Chicken noodle soup. I do not want to do that again, but I am familiar with food poisoning. Word! I think that event happened 5 to 10 years ago

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The International at Castle Pines Golf Course

Greetings People

Well, my grandfather hopefully be able to go to a rehab center after being in the hospital for a week. Nothing I care to share, but for him being in the hospital that long got me a bit worried. I was not sure that I might I have to leave for my other "home" and prepare for the worst. At least it/he got better.

I also just found out "the International" held in Castle Pines has ended. It is official, but the PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said he hopes to have a new sponsor and site for a replacement event within 30 days. As I just looked up on the internet a source says Tiger had a profound effect. That is a fucked up answer.

First and formost. When the International got Tiger to play they had to move the dates of the International. They did. Then Tiger from there, could not make the International due to taking time off for the event after the International, which I will not name, but true golf fans know. Yes, The International messed this up, because they accommodated him in the first place, when in fact, everything was perfect in the first place. If you readers know and could do your math you will see how much play has gone on before Tiger even showed up at the International and as of today since he last played and how long the International has been playing since his last play.

If the International is/was so worried about not getting to host a tournament, perhaps they should cut costs somewhere else. Or I hate to say this, do a better job promoting everyone else and not to just mention to the world that Tiger is not going to play the International. There are big names and a lot of Golf fans in Colorado that could care less about Tiger. Let me mention that something else that has not surfaced "officially". You know what... perhaps not. There are a lot other Golfer - we love Phil, Vijay and Norman (when his back is not acting up).

There is also something that us "Faithful" International fans love - is the Modified Stableford System of play. We fans loved the system up to the year that the International decided to start all Golfer at "0" on Sunday. That was blasphemy! The whole point of Golf is to reward the best player of the tournament. Not the person who squeezes in on the bottom end of the cut line for Friday and Saturday day's end finish. That give the person toward the bottom of the list to have a shot a winning when in fact his play for the entire tournament was mediocre. Messed Up! Player get "hot", players get "bad days" and well starting everyone at zero for Sunday's play was wrong. Wrong. wrong. wrong.

I love the 5 point opportunities (ie Hole 17) I also love Hole 8 - the hole that either makes or break a golfer. If a golfer get a "snowman" then he basically needs to give up the hole and move onto the next. I could go on and on, but you International fans know what a place golf was there and not because of just the "Golfer" I hated the rain delays, I also hated the Saturday day pass holders coming onto Sunday's pass holders - truly a mess. Although, I think I remember (I have not been to the International for a few years) that passes were sold in days packs and not individuals days. Sorry, I can not remember, nor can I remember the last time I actually paid for a pass, since they have been gifts to me.

My experiences at the International has been good. I even got to go to the "International Village" with my VIP passes twice. I thoroughly enjoyed those moments at the International. Not to mention the gifts that I bought for myself. Key chains, Luggage tags and polos.

In short readers, "The Rise & Fall" of the International is nobody's fault except the International. Do not place blame on a person(s) or events. The International had it right the first time it started and from there on out it brought its own demise to cancellation on February 9, 2007

My history on this is rusty so I will have to pull my articles/folders on the International out. yes, I kept all notes and tickets!

Well, time for me to go and I will broach this subject later

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

I Can't Hear You

Greetings People

"I can't hear you"

As I voice to whomever asks me for the time or anything to get an answer to the question they have asked. As I am saying this I also point to my ear, which clearly shows that I have earphones lodged inside my ears.

Now, whether or not I can actually can hear the other person depends on the type of music that is playing. Or even better, no music playing. I am still going to point to my ear and say "I can not hear you"

When I have my earphones in my ears that means that I do not want to listen to you nor do I want to talk to you. You can smile all you want, you can ask politely, you can shout, you can wave your arms, you can point to your wrist to pantomime "what time?", you can bat your pretty eyelashes, etc. I am not going to answer your question(s) you presented. I am under no obligation to give you an answer, nor do I consider this rude since you are attempting to interrupt me and my music. The other person is the person being rude.

I am only saying this is because on Sunday I was trying to be asked five questions while I was listening to my music all day.

I clearly stated that "I can not hear you" and pointed to my ears or held up my CD walkman.

Instance 1 - I understood that you wanted the time. Well, you should of wore a watch, grabbed your watch this morning or go buy a watch if this is a question that gets you to ask a question everyone you know. It is not my fault that you walked out that door without a watch. Also, this woman probably thought that she has all men under her control. Not this guy. Perhaps she has a guy "whipped" or "around her finger" in her life, but I know better, er so to speak. I know, I know. Yes, it could of been very simple of me to answered her question, but then I would of have to make a few adjustments to oneself, push back my jacket to see my watch, but I did not want to. Again, not my problem/issue. I call it a "problem" you can call it request or whatever, but it comes down to me and yes - it is "problem" that I see you have.

Instance 2 - I know that you were asking me if this is the train to Colorado Blvd. First of all, I arrived about 3 to 5 minutes before the train came to the Light rail station and I saw you standing there waiting for the light rail train. In all that time before I got there you had to opportunity to look at the station maps (posted around the station) to find out where you need to go and what train you need to get to. But - 1. At the light rail station, mind you the only light rail station, that has been operational since last year there is one track going North and one track going south. So, if you have any sense, not Mensa quality, but any sense you can figure out the question if this train go to Colorado Blvd which is South and which is on the side you were waiting for. Does not take rocket scientist to figure that out. and 2. You know where you are at. If you are at such and such station Colorado Blvd is South, not North. Does the sun come up in the North? You see - does not take a rocket scientist trainee to figure that out. Not my problem that you did not read the map and not my problem that you did not read the front of the light rail train.

Instance 3 - Is this the line for pre-registration? Well, if you would take off those dark sunglasses and look at the two lines you could figure out the line for Pre-registration and the line for already registered people. I arrived at Washington Park not 10 minutes before and was able to figure out which line to be in. Duh. I filled out the necessary form since I had not pre-registered and then looked at both lines and saw that one line had people holding the same form that I had just filled out and the other line did not. Enough said. He continued to ask me again and did not say another word. Not my problem. If you can not figure out this simple math equation on which line is which, then you better get your head out of your butt. Also, I am standing in a line full of people, go bother someone else without earphones on. Get over it, my friend.

And so forth. I could go on and give more reasons and other views, but what it comes down to is I have the option to answer or not. Depending on your view - I was rude. On the other hand - I was not rude. You can say I should of answered them. I say I did not have to. You could say that those questions were easy to answer. I would say - so what - I chose not to answer since I elected not to be bothered by putting my earphones in and mentioning "I can't hear you"

If you were brought up with manners, you say excuse me. (Which not one of these people said "Excuse me"- Damn straight I could hear them!). If no response then say once more and if you feel the person(s) did not hear you then tap them on the shoulder for their attention. (Damn Straight! - I was looking one way and sure the other person was looking at the side of my ear and they had looked they would of seen why I was not acknowledging them.) Again, I could go on and on. I was rude, in probably most of you reader's view, in not responding, but they initiated the "rudeness" with me. I do not tolerate rudeness nor ignorance.

I think this was good blog entry for me to blog about. Kind of nice to put this out to the world.

Prison Break - Was a pretty good episode, but some scenes did not work in my opinion. Overall, I will still watch the show. =)

And there was my OWGE on Light rail this morning smiling and laughing and asked me the question that made her laugh "How was work yesterday?" I could not help it either. I laughed with her and said "I did not get off work until 5:30." And we laughed once more together. Again, she has made my morning.

well, until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

It's Official - My Running has started for 2007

Greetings People

What can I say. I have not been humbled nor do I have an excuse, but the time is pretty ugly for my first 5k of the year. Granted, it has been eight weeks since I have truly ran or rode (any training) excersises.

I participated in my first event this year and that is the President's Day 5K, which was held in Washington Park in Denver, Colorado

So, my official time for 2007

8:41 per mile - 26.59 total

and My official time for 2004

7:43 per mile - 23.57 total

58 seconds slower and I was truly shocked. I guess not doing anything sure does show. I am not mad nor disappointed, but I do now have a mission and that mission is to knock that time down in the next 5k I participate in.

Today, I feel good. Legs are a little wobbly, but nothing too bad.

This coming weekend I have two events that I am interested in - The Snowman Stampede or Run the Register. Hmmmmm. Two unique events and I am not trained for either. These are pretty fucked up options I have decided for myself. I guess we will see. I have 6 days of recovery and training to decide. =) This is going to be a pretty interesting week to start off running officially. I can not back down from either since I have declared myself official.

31 days of Oscar - a few more movies to add that I watched - Close Encounters of the 3rd Kind, MIB, and Paint Your Wagon. It was the first time that I saw Paint Your Wagon with Clint Eastwood and Lee Marvin. Not your typical Western nor the Western you thought you would get when you team these two actors together for a movie. Overall, a good movie, but pretty long to watch.

Amazing race has started - but it is the All-Stars and to me that is not interesting at all. However, since it is Amazing Race and I have an on going bet with the show - It's On!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Eleven years gone as of this year.

Greetings People

I guess I have a lot to say, but not enough time on my lunch hour. Nor have I come up with a clear thought to blog about.

So, today for some unknown reason I got up at 4:15 AM and was wide awake. Not sure why. I knew I was up, going to be up, from the moment I awoke. I got up cleaned up the kitchen, put away the clean dishes from the Dishwasher and the dishes that I had to hand wash. Took out some trash, tidied up the Dining and Living Room.

After all that, I turned on the TV and was started to flip through the channels. I then happened to see Hank Azaria and I knew immediately what show had just started at 5:00 AM. "Tuesday's with Morrie" Well, that was pretty much it for me. I settled down on the couch and started to watch this movie I love. Why? Well, it is basically how the title sounds. Long story short Morrie is dying with ALS and the character by Hank reunites with Morrie. And well readers that is all I am going to say.

A very touching movie for me since this is the sort of situation I was in 11 years ago. She was a girlfriend, but not a "girlfriend". You readers may think you have a best friend, but I will guarantee you that you do not know a best friend when the your friend is dying and you are there experiencing with him/her. I would not classify "a disease and beating it" as something that might draw the both of you together closer. I my humble opinion of course. Yes, my dad had/has cancer and did the surgery/treatment and now are waiting the term limit after treatment. Did I become closer? no.

In the other case of mine - I spent four months with my friend until the end. I am not going to say the event humbled me nor changed my outlook on life, but the last few years I have come to acknowledged it damaged all my relationships with women after she was gone. I do not want the responsibility or become responsible for another person. Nor do I want to see someone at their "not their best day" For example - after my dad had surgery I could not go into his hospital room after the recovery. I did not want to see my dad in this way. Yes, I was very happy everything went well, but I could not make myself go into the hospital room. I reminded me of the past of mine.

Well, as you can see the morning was good, but sad since I had a lot of memories flow back in my head on this particular morning. I had a lump in my throat and a few tears. No breakdown readers so you better get that out of your head!

I have not had a best friend since then nor a stable relationship. So, sort of getting back to the story, I found out what a friend I was to her and I hope that I was there for her, and hope she did not think I was just there for her for the wrong reason one may come to. I now have friends and acquaintances, which are just fine since I have no one to worry about nor would I have to subject myself to another experience like this.

Anyway, thought to blog about my morning. Again sort of random thoughts, but I thought to use the blog so I can look back later. Who knows.

Other than that - in the forties this morning. very windy. A beautiful day overall and I think I have sort of plan to have a few drinks tonight after this morning's event. Nothing bad nor good, but I was just caught off guard.

31 days of Oscar - The movie that I saw last night for the first time was Children of a Lesser God. Wow! I had some respect for William Hurt, but I did not realize what sort of performance he did in the movie.

I saw my "Orange Eskimo" in her "orange" coat this morning. She was full of smiles since she gets out of work at 3:00 pm and has Monday off. She had to rub it in and say I could of have the same deal, but no. Mr Charley had to leave Archstone-smith. Too bad.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

And onto the Next Holiday

Greetings People

Nothing much to blog about.

Hope everyone had a nice Valentine's Day if it does matter to you. Yes, Believe that! I agree that it is very hyped up day and yet sometimes it is nice to recognize someone else other than myself.

I did not get to see the, er my, Qdoba girl yesterday. It had been snowing the night before and accumulation was about 3 to 6 inches and on top of that there was icy beneath the snow since the sun has been melting the snow/ice for the past week. Oh well. I did have a card to give, but I guess I will have to make a visit sometime soon.

Oh my OWGE made a joke yesterday. I had emailed her and said you better not get him a pink phone and she had had written back "I put a pink bow around the phone" To me, that was too funny. Something unexpected from her and caught me off guard. I laughed and laughed.

31 days of Oscar - The Bridges of Madison County was the next movie I saw, but only in a partial sleepy daze. I was kind of exhausted and just wanted to go to bed, yet was also wanted to watch the movie since I have never seen the movie. It does have Clint Eastwood.

I am not sure what else to blog about. Pretty darn cold this morning and the high is only in the twenties.

Oh, so there I was yesterday evening walking with LaMont and there were a couple of people behind us about 5 to 10 yards. I walked through the first set of doors and held the door open then LaMont held open the second set of doors. Well, I can not believe this. LaMont got the "Thank you" from the both of them while I did not get any. That was pure BS. Of course, LaMont did not even think to care about how my feelings were trampled. Not only did this piss me off, but I think those two said "Thank you" because he was white. They probably thought I was Mexican or Hispanic and not worth a Thank you. Of course LaMont says he is not white. Well, I beg to differ. If we both were standing out in the snow with the snow falling who would be the person you would see? Me! LaMont would blend into the world. Me, you would see my light brown skin from miles around. Okay, well not miles, but you get the idea.

I knew I should of just followed more normal instinct and put some distance between people so I do not have to feel obligated to open the door for anyone. What? Selfish thinking? No. I have every right not to hold open the door. You have two hands, I have no ring around my finger indicating you own me, nor do I "love" you. I either feel in the mood to hold the door open or I do not. So, if I do not hold open the door for you - you better wipe off that look off your face or hold that tongue before you say something you regret. I will put you in your place and make you regret ever thinking about saying something to me.

No, I do not do this all the time, but I will admit it is most of the time. I will gladly hold open the door open without a thank you and think nothing of it. Yes, rarely it does happen. It is like society expects this (IE why not tip the fast food people - they wait on you) or that.

Anyway, I was a bit peeved, but soon got over it. LaMont think it was funny and accused me of being selfish. Well, he is white and therefore thinks nothing of this. These two people probably thought - oh a Mexican in a jean jacket I ain't saying "thank you" to this guy. Habla no Espano.
I think LaMont is just used to the people taking for granted his opening doors and thank you since he is white. While I will still be racially challenged person that people take for granted. Not this guy - I make sure that you recognize anything you take for granted around me.

I know, I know - incomplete thoughts but thought to write this down in my lunch time before I forget.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Chill is back and the sun is gone

Greetings People

31 days of Oscar - Well, the two movies that I saw last night was "The Big Chill" and "Silkwood" I have seen Silkwood before, but I have never seen the Big Chill.

I was quite impressed with the Big Chill. So many of the actors/actresses when they were young and I never knew worked together - Glenn Close, Kevin Kline, Tom Beringer, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Meg Tilly, Jo Beth Williams, and that is all I can remember for the moment. Interesting story that takes place over a weekend involving a college friend who committed suicide and that is what brings them all together. You know readers it only took me 23 years or so to see this movie. Whew.

Last night was the first night of the Westminster Kennel Dog Show in New York City. My dog favorite, Pekingese took second place in the toy dog category. Close, but no cigar. Tonight is the second and final night of the Dog Show - and the covenanted "Best of Show" - So, far I like the Akita, but we have three more categories - Sporting, Herding and ???? category left.

So some people had commented on my DVD and CD burning the past week or so. Thinking about this a bit more these people are the same people who have Ipods and I bet they are loading there Ipod with music from their CD library. I am not the one to judge, but calling this kettle black when they are just as black as "bull's tookis on a moonless night".

Something to mention - Anna Nicole Smith died last week and I feel like we lost someone who was important, but not at all. Anyway, that is another topic in itself. What I want to mention is that I can not believe how much coverage her death has generated. James Brown did not get this much coverage when he died, granted, Gerald Ford past away about the same time. But James Brown was an Icon not to mention an accomplished singer in history entertainment. Who was Anna - a centerfold, a widow of a multi-billionaire, realty star, weigh transformation skinny to fat to skinny, but overall nothing even remotely close to James Brown Stature.

I really have nothing else to comment on - so with that.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Centennial, CO can see the ground! Boo-yah !

Greetings People

Well, there I was walking home pretty early for a Friday evening and noticed, really noticed, that I could see the ground. True Earth. It was an amazing sight to see and if you carefully look you can still see the green of the grass. I think that with all the snow and ice that had covered the ground it protected the grass from freezing and turning completely brown. You can also see the sidewalks, not to mention to actually use the sidewalks.

For the first time this year, 2007, I took out my "winter" road bike and road Heidi to the store, to Target, to the Movie Theatre, to the Library and to Office Max. As you can see I was pretty productive that morning. Not only did I have a smile, my mood was so good and not to mention everyone else I saw that day. I think that the general populace was happy with the sunny skies, the warm weather and the fact that the snow is really starting to disappear. I did not have a bad mood arise all day yesterday. I even bought some New York Strip Steaks that morning so I could grill them for Dinner. Which I did later that day and also made two baked potatoes.

The movie that I saw in the movie theatre was "Hannibal's Rising" and that was the first movie I have seen in the movie theatre this year. Not to mention it has been over 8 months, I think, that I saw a movie in a theatre. The movie was not bad, but it was not good. The ending was totally mediocre and the story was there, but not relevant. Yes, we faithful readers and followers know the story, but the movie just did not have "it" I saw the movie because, in my personal humble opinion, Hannibal is such a character that I love. You could and say that he is evil, but that is being so simple with words. He, after all, is a doctor and he is very intelligent. I enjoy seeing Anthony Hopkins playing the role and that is all I can see when I try to imagine what Hannabal looks like. He played the role to a T. The movie was so-so, but did nothing to really warrant the "Rising". One might say "Beginning" since that would be the conception of Hannabal Lector. The movie ended abruptly, and I would say not right, but thinking about it - is because I wanted to know more of why the movie ended on the note. I do not know.

I saw OWGE this morning I was able to get a picture of the two of us. So perhaps when I get the role developed I will share the "Orange Eskimo" with you all. Then again that would defeat the purpose of me not naming her and keeping her known as the Orange Eskimo. She was wondering if I was going to be sending any Valentine's Day to anyone. I said no, but then I mentioned I might try and go see my Qdoba girl this Wednesday with a card and hope she is working. I asked her what she is going to do. She is going to buy a phone for her husband since he lost the one he had. My Orange Eskimo is just too funny. Yes, she remembered that I loved that one Qdoba girl in Englewood.

Gosh readers, I go without thinking about the Qdoba girl for months and then all of a sudden she has re-appeared in my life. Go figure.

What's that? Why not list the person's real name? Because I like to keep some of the people I know secret. However, I might talk about someone I knew and I would hate for some of my friends to develop different views of the person(s) we may know. I always have my personal views and they probably are very different from the people I know. I also would like to keep any people from finding out that I might have had a "crush" on a certain person(s). I would hate for that person to get the "20 questions" regarding what ever they ask. Then, the opposite part of that is that I could bad mouth and talk trash about a person whom I just loathe. You see readers that is why to keep my friend's name a secret.

I bought a spindle of 100 DVD/R+ and 50 CD/R- and then some empty cases for storage. My little abode is a mess not to mention in front of the TV and computer. I have been recording, burning, transferring CD, DVD to this and that. I am really enjoying my new found hobby. Yes, hobby. No. You are not going to see me peddling my wares on some street corner. Hah hah. I burned a DVD on my DVD external drive and it worked! Woo hoo!

31 days of Oscar - A few more movies I saw this past weekend - Starship Troopers and 2001: A Space Odyssey. I enjoyed the past week and a half so far of the movies I have watched. Although the next two days I will be taking a break from my regular shows and will be watching the Westminster Dog Show. This is an event that I enjoy to watch - to see the dogs prance around. What? Oh, I love the Pekingese Dog, since that has been my favorite pet that I have had to date. It was also the only one I could not be there to see pass away.

I guess I am starting once more to having a small base of people who know me. I can go into Office Depot, Office Max and Best Buy and there they are. Hey buddy, how are you? How is the new DVD player working? the Flash Drive? These people seem to go out of there way to say hi and what's up when they see me in the store. Then again, I could be totally wrong. There is this one young girl at one of the Office's and she is said to me that she is going to keep trying to sign me up for some kind of plan. I do not know what to say. Kinda cute, but sort of young for me to go after. It is not wrong, but it not right - I hope some of you readers know that sort of situation.

Now, that pretty much sums up the past few days. So with that I better let you readers go.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Back to the old Me - it was a nice 24 hours of joy

Greetings readers

Well, I thought I was going to continue about the light rail incident I had yesterday morning, but I have lost all train of thoughts on yesterday's blog so I guess there is not much else to add.

Me and OWGE then caught up a bit. She made me laugh and yes readers my smile got bigger. Who knew that I could smile that much in the morning. She told me some news at the company and I told her nothing has changed with me, except spending $ 105.00 in the past month. Again, my OWGE laughed like it was the funniest thing in the world. In truth readers, I think that she was laughing at me and another moment in the life of Daryl Charley and how does this guy do it? She is also probably thinking there is some work ahead for some woman that tries to win Daryl's heart. This guy is complicated and picky and "the drawer" has only been opened a few inches. Hah hah.

This would also pertain to another person I know. For the sake of animosity he will be forth known as LaMont. LaMont had reference his "new" name and had mentioned that this was the son on Sanford & Son. I can not remember for the life of me, but I think he is right. I think that I have to watch TVland this week to see if I can catch a Sanford & Son. So, if that is true I think I can call Lamont - "Big Dummy" Now, that is what I remember he called "his" better half when he wasn't calling out Ester. "Big Dummy" I like that. Hah hah.

So, LaMont most likely agrees with OWGE opinion of me. Do I care? Nope, perhaps to a certain extent though. But OWGE, Lamont and the others all have their opinions and believe me I think I keep them entertained when I need to talk about an "event". I think most of the time I tell the stories is to get a laugh, a smile, which in turn gets me to smile and my day turns around from that point on.

Oh readers, I have a person (who I met over the phone that left the company last year) that was down in Australia during the Australian Open 2007 and he has granted me permission to use a photo that he took of a Roddick vs Federer match. So, the picture shown is that. I like the picture and the view is perfect.

Well, nothing really else to blog about.

I guess I do have another incident at the Light Rail Station this morning. So, my mood was neither good or bad, but to tell you the truth readers I was looking for something, someone to start me "off on the wrong foot". I get into the Light rail car and picked a seat, a smaller seat, near the entrance of the car. Well, there was a bag sitting on the sit and a guy sitting across the way. I saw him open his eyes look at me and that is when I said "You better move this bag or I will move it for you" Well, that certainly got his eyes alert. He gave me the look "who the fuck do you think you are" and I sort of gave him the "go ahead and try me look". I imagine this only took 15 seconds or so, but thinking about it more, I think the whole ordeal took 5 seconds or so. Oh yes readers, I was ready to throw down. I was in no mood to take any crap this morning and nor was I going to be the submissive person. Let us say after I got him to move his bag and I moved to another seat. I won the "bag" battle, but staring each other down was getting me even more pissed off, so I had to move. Hah hah. I once again give myself a hand, for being the better person in moving, since he was there first. However, this whole incident would of been averted if he did not have his bag there in the first place. Oh, I know readers, I could of picked another seat and avoided this incident period, but I had a right to sit there - and since this is black history month I was just like Rosa Parks. I will sit whereever I damn please. You see readers, I do care about the oppressed people in life, past and present!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Return of the "Orange Eskimo"

Greetings People

After some fiddling with my new DVD Recorder I somehow got to thinking about who, or whom, I might send a Valentine to. I was surprised I forgot about her, but I did forget about her since I do not see her anymore. Her name..... well that is a secret. Not! Kidding. The thing is I do not know her name. I have known her for over a year and I have never once asked for name. I do not think she knows my name either.

Okay, I guess I better give it up. Well, she is known as the girl at Qdoba. She is, well the last time I visit, was the store in Englewood, CO. The corner of Yosemite and Dry Creek. She was someone that caught my eye and then after some time I made the effort to get to know her more and more. She is hispanic, but I am thinking more mexican since she mentioned that she went to Mexico to visit her family.

I am now thinking I might have to stop in next week, perhaps Valentine's Day, to say Hi and what not.

The next movie I watched in the 31 days of Oscar was "Good Morning Vietnam". I had not seen this movie in a long time. I did not, and to a certain extent, do not care for Robin Williams. This movie was made back in eighties and released in 1987. The movie was okay, but nothing to say anything good about. I know it is a movie, but the "non-stop rambling" is what really turns me off when Robin is speaking into the microphone. Enough said on that subject.

Oh readers,the fog was thick this morning and I had to run to the Light Rail station stop since I did not see the train until too late. So, I ran into the "9mile train" and sat down with a huff and a puff and a smile on my face. Since I made the train that was why I had the smile. I sat down and leaned against the window with my feet stretched out in front on me since no one was sitting in the opposite seat. Then, someone sits down across me and steps on my feet. I was looking out the window and still had the joy of making the train - so I just brushed off "stepping on my foot accident" and did not even bother looking who did it. I was not looking for me to get worked up this early in the day. Well, let me say at that moment I could care less. Then, that person across me was trying to get my attention so I had to look. Jeez louise people. When I have my earphones in that means "Leave me the fuck alone" unless I know you or you are "the man" hah hah. Well, guess what readers? It was my Orange Eskimo, but now I would have to call her the OWGE - Original White Gangster Eskimo. No orange anywhere. And almost all white. She had a big smile on her face - one may say she was damn proud stepping all over my feet. (to be continued)

Oh readers got to go... perhaps I can finish up later. If not, then tomorrow.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Twenty-seven cents on the Dollar

Greetings People

You know that I had mentioned that I would revisit a topic that I wanted to get back to since this topic is sort of something that I have to explain my stance on. One may say - privilege, One may say - what a ass. One may say - issues. One may say - get over it.

Well, I have my stance on this particular issue. There are so many points and issues and other things that involve the issue, but I guess what will arise from addressing this topic is that I have a problem about being "cordial"

I would never say that and I have said numerous times that it is "my right", but I guess I was wrong about that. I think I said that like someone would say "good morning" When in fact, it is not. It is something one would say automatically. However, I will not. I will say either morning or nothing at all. Unless I got something-something then I would most likely say "Good Morning". Yet, I think that the early morning smile says it all, since the early morning smile is hardly something on my face.

Anyway, getting back to the topic at hand. As I have mentioned before, I have bought a new DVD recorder and I have been "trying" out this new player the past week and has taken all my time so far. So, I apologize that I have not address this topic. This is something that I have been thinking about pretty good about. However, with all my thinking about thinking about this one would say that I am obsessed about this topic. Readers, this is something that has to been done for myself in order to really think about how I feel about this from the heart and not just saying it without really knowing the stance on why I feel this way.

Changing subjects, I recorded my first movie last night in the 3 hour 15 minute mode on my DVD Recorder and this morning I watched the beginning of the recording. Wow. The picture was crisp! I can really see the difference. I did use my DVD/R+ so I am not sure if that also helped or not, but I think the recording was perfect. I was watching another movie from the 31 days of Oscar.

Well, that is about all I have to mention. A lot of news in the news, but nothing I want to talk about.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Heat wave in Denver, Colorado - Woo hoo!

Greetings People

Well, I guess the Sunday Sales for DVD disc are pretty popular in the Greenwood Village area. I went to Office Depot and Office Max and both did not have SONY DVD R-/R+ So I had to buy Maxell R+. Now, I will get to try the R+ disc and see if there is difference to the formats that I would notice.

Can you believe that we are in the midst of a "heat wave"! We actually have broken the 50 degree mark and I hear that tomorrow is going to be the same. I am exciting since I am planning to take the mountain bike out and see if I am going to be able to ride to work tomorrow morning. The sidewalks in the sunny part of the day have begun to melt and you can actually see the concrete.

My mood has changed in the past week and I am not sure why, but it is for the best.

I actually do not have anything else to write about.

Valentine's Day is approaching and you do not even have to guess, I do not have to worry about this event this year once more. Whew. Well, would be nice to get a little something-something, but a little something-something not a Valentine's Day is okay with me. No pressure nor event that I have to mark on my calendar as an anniversary. And the other thing is that I have not pursued anyone in order to send a valentine. Sure, there have been some maybe's but nothing I would care to mark the special day with.

Thinking about this, I think the last Valentine, non valentine, gift I sent someone was about 4 years ago. An arrangement of flowers I sent to a girl I like in the beginning, but then backed off when I found out there was guy and also subconsciously I make it a rule not to get involve with someone I work with. It was not just because of Valentine's day, but I had left the company the month before without so much as a good-bye. Yet, a good-bye was not really warranted since we hardly dealt and talked with each at all. So, the flowers, not roses, were sent with a card saying sorry for not saying goodbye and nothing much else. Definitely, no "I love you" or "Will you be mine" sayings. What? Was I trying to win her heart? Nope. I have no regrets sending and I knew of the situation at that time.

You know readers, after reading that paragraph it sounds fragmented, but what else is there to say. Life does move one. No, I have not from her since I left the company. I sent an email on her birthday, but did not get a response. No big deal, since I made the effort and then I am not going to worry about responding why she was not responding to my first email. That my friends, is what you might call "oh yeah he still likes her" Nope, when I usually leave a company sometimes I send a email to former co-workers to ask what is going on or long time no see. What? Okay, okay let me think if there is someone I might want to send a Valentine to. I do not think so, but I will think about it tonight.

Anyway, enough on that subject and I think it is time for me to close up this blog and get back to work.


until the next time.

Daryl Charley
The fallen Athlete

The Month that starts the Chinese New Year

Greetings People

Well, my DVD recorder this weekend was put to the test this weekend by me. That was about the extent of my weekend. I bought a 3 pack of SONY DVD/R- on Friday and 48 hours later I have learned how to use my new recorder. Although, I am still green behind the ears on what type of DVD's I should be recording to and what speed I should use. I tried the 6hr and 4 hour recording mode. I like the 4 hour mode. The 6hr was good, but the scenes that involve a far shot seemed a bit grainy. I could live with it, but I think I will stay in the 4hr mode. I am going to buy a 50 pack of discs tonight and I am going to try the 2hr mode.

I think I see the reason why that DVD discs are sold in such 25, 50 & 100 packages. Not a problem I think, but that could change for me later. Who knows. I now have recorded some of my recording on my VCR tapes, and TV onto the DVD/R- disc this past weekend. They are currently laying in front of my tv .

I feel like a technical genius and geez I think I have jump in catching up with technology in the past 5 months, A new computer, CD burner, DVD external burner, Flash Drive and then the DVD Recorder. Of course, I need a HD TV, Flat screen, Ipod, and perhaps an external hard drive. Who knows. I guess what matters is that I am now busy and getting a little less stir crazy from not being able to run or ride.

Well, yes I could run/ride now, but the ice and snow still has not melted and the terrain is a bit dangerous to ride/run in. I would hate to fall/crash if I could not see an ice patch. Maybe later this week I will be able to hop onto one of my bikes and start biking once more.

On the other end - it sucks to be paying 3 dollars a day to ride the RTD. (1.50 each way). Times that by 5 that equals 15 times that by 7 that equals 107.00 in the past seven weeks that I had to dish out money for transportation. This does not include my weekend bus rides to Target that I did in January. This "extra" expense is starting to bother me since I do not regularly have any expenses for traveling, except when needed. Needed as when my bike needs new tires or patches.

As you know readers - the Colts won.

I went to get my Sunday paper from Safeway and I was immediately asked if I was going to do the Ride the Rockies. I immediately said no. Yes, there are reasons why I do not participate in this ride.

Anyway, after sort of thinking about this for the past 24 hours I am starting to think twice and even signing up for the lottery - Entry fee is like 333.00, I think. Refundable if you are not chosen. I just found out Larry Green will not be doing the ride, which is so much the better. Anyway, I will keep you posted and I guess we will see. I also have some time to submit an application.... we'll see

Oh, my first TCM 31 days of Oscar movie was "The Dirty Dozen" Yes, I have seen the movie before, but this is such a classic movie and a stellar cast. I do like the movie and very entertaining for its time.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Groundhog Day 2007

Greetings People

Well, the annual event has arrived and that would be the watching of "Groundhog Day" with Bill Murray. This is a classic movie and one that I pull off my shelf to watch every time this day of the year. So, if you came to the conclusion I will be watching this movie tonight with some popcorn from last year's harvest in New Mexico.

Oh readers, I guess I never mentioned this to you. When I was down in New Mexico over the Thanksgiving weekend my parents gave me a bushel of fresh potatos and a bag of "Enchanted" Popcorn from the year's harvest. I did not mention the size of the bag. 35 fucking pounds of popcorn and the other thing is my parents only paid $ 4.00 for the bag. Yes, they know that I love popcorn, but this time they surely outdid themselves. I laugh everytime I see that bag of popcorn in my dining room. I do not know where else to put the 34 pounds of popcorn. Oh, I also got 20 pounds of last year's Pinto beans harvest from New Mexico also. I have a surplus of Popcorn and pinto beans. I have two huge potatoes left, yes still firm and looking good, which I plan to have with a nice steak this weekend.

Getting back to the bag of popcorn. The bag is huge and yes 34 pounds heavy. Each time that I make pocorn I have been using a little over a half cup of popcorn. The popcorn is not Orville's quality, but still good. Yet, it seems that I have not made a break in volume of the bag. The bag still seems to be filled like it was first opened.

The pinto beans are in a huge "coca cola" container that is sitting next to my stove. This is great especially now since I can make beans at night and then wake up to fresh, smelling food and then make whatever I wish as a side to the beans and enjoy. I have made chili numerous times so far, but I am trying to expand my cooking possibilities with pinto beans.

Getting back to Groundhog Day - I know that if there are any groundhogs in Colorado I can tell you right now they are most likely hibernating. Or stuck in their home since snow and ice still have not melted away, since it has been snowing every week and the snow keeps piling on the melted portion so nothing seems to be melting.

It is only 10 degrees, which we are up from -2 degrees with wind chill, I think, from this morning. Darn cold waiting for the RTD bus and Light Rail Train this morning. The walk from the Light Rail station to my work was a bit cold since the wind was blowing in from the west and pretty darn icy, cold wind/breeze.

I "burned" another CD last night/this morning on my external DVD drive that I got last week. I am telling you readers this machine is so "sweet".

TCM has started the "31 days of Oscar" so please catch some of the days of the featured movies. I do every year.

Well, incoherent blogging once more, but thought to blog.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

My new SONY DVD Recorder

Greetings People

Well, I have nothing really to blog about.

I did purchase a new DVR player last night and got the DVR hooked up a little bit last night. I am telling you people I have some "old school" equipment. You know the equipment that does not have the digital links, optical link, s-video, the whatever you call the 3 different color breakout (purple,blue, green?), etc. I still use the co-axial cables, The three color (red, yellow and white) cable to hook up all the equipment. So, I have cables running here and there and had to re-route some cables in order to get the equipment working harmoniously.

I am proud to say that I got the picture running correctly through all machines. However, the sound I am a bit "stumped" and was getting at the end of my rope last night so I called it a night and then decided to watch "The Exorcist" on AMC last night just to get my mind off of trying to continue my re-wiring process. It worked. I can not believe how old that movie is and how is still get a little frighten of some parts of the movie. Perhaps that is because I got scared when I was younger and sub-consciously my brain had not forgotten how scared I was at that time in my life. And the music score - the infamous theme to the Exorcist - wow.

I know that there is another version that has been released in the past five years or so with some scenes that were not included in the original version of the movie. The part that I only saw a glimpse of was when there was advertising about the "updated" version with Reagen walking up or down on the stairs in a "crab like" position. Kinda creepy to think about and again that part was only shown for a second, if not less.

So, the weather was only 8 degrees this morning and now I think 18 degrees. Still darn cold, but no wind.

Anyway, getting back to the DVR. I am pretty happy, but I have yet to record anything on a DVD R+/R-/RW. Too many formats to choose from. This is only the tip of the iceberg. I have brought in my manual to work, which I plan to take to the store with me when I buy my first DVD to record to. There are DVD+RW with different logos, which I am sure are different in its own way. then RW2, DVD+R DL, DVD R R4.7, VR mode, Video Mode, 8x, 6x, 16x speeds guidelines - I can not use some under a certain speed, unless a certain version 2.0 or version 2.1 with CPRM. And so forth.

Getting myself caught up with the "advanced" world sure does show how behind the times I have been.

It is kinda of amazing though that I have not spending the money on any of my bikes. I think that the reason why is that I can not ride any of them. Therefore, why should I buy something for them when the snow and ice are present and I am unable to ride. Again, that is probably my thought process and I could be wrong. Although before purchasing the DVR last night I did thought about spending my money on a one rim, that costs a lot more than I should spend. Hah hah.

I am not excited about the superbowl this weekend, but if I had to choose then I would pick the Bears. The Bears since they have done some amazing stuff this past season, from the clips that I saw on ESPN.

Boy oh boy, did you see how many blogs I did for the month of January. I almost equaled the total I did all last year. I guess I do have something to say to the world. Most have not been pretty, but thoughts that I shared to the people who have happened to come across my blog by accident or by me sending my link.

Readers, note - I am going to re-visit a topic that needs to be address. Sorry, no hints, but I expect something in the next week. I started thinking about this about two days ago and I can not get this out of my mind.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete