Fat Tire - 2 Below

Greetings Readers Okay, I was in the liquor store over the weekend and I had to get some cooking Jack. I did not make a bee-line for the Jack. Since I was in the liquor store why not take a look around... I never know what my father would like as a birthday gift. I just do not know. And yes Readers I know I could have asked him, my mother or my brother – but it is not in my nature to do so. So, this year I was visiting a local liquor store near where I live and I saw that they still have 2 below (Fat Tire). I could not believe it Readers! Not only did I see that they have 2 below – they had two 12-packs and two 6-packs! Yes, I immediately thought of myself, but then instantly remembered that I am on the P90X program and I know that a micro brew is not on the list as part of the program. Yes, the generalization of beer is listed (as well as the calories), but beyond that I know better than that this beer can not be counted as part of the plan. Then, I remembered that my father does love this beer. Matter of fact, the last time he was here visiting in the winter he made a comment that he loved this beer. And yes, when I had my short visit earlier this month he made a comment that he could not find any more Fat Tire – 2 below. I told him that beer is seasonal and they had just released the spring seasonal – which is the Mighty Arrow. Further noting that since the Spring Seasonal is out - they are no longer making the winter seasonal. So, I picked up a 12-pack and thought this is going to make an excellent birthday present. Note Readers, I know this blog is public, but I know that my mother and father do not follow my blog nor have access to Internet due to the location of our ranch. Of course, I know that would not stop them from accessing the Internet when they could access the Internet. Anyway, as far as I know this will be a surprise, but if not then he will know that I did locate a 12-pack of 2 below - and I hope this will be a nice birthday gift. I am sure that the local liquor store probably should have pulled the seasonal beer since the new seasonal beer is out and was stocked in their cooler. But personally, I do not go by seasonal deadlines and I do not stick to the “Best Before” date listed on the bottle. I am sure that a beer “Best Before” will not be bad one day or two weeks after the “Best Before” date. Perhaps even a month or two after the “Best Before” date. I did talk to the liquor store employee I know and asked how long will the 2 below be in the cooler. He indicated not long, matter of fact since a new company took over the Fat Tire company, new the company is strict about how long beer should be sold/displayed. With that said I indicated that I would come by within the week and buy the rest of the stock of 2 below. Personally, I think this will make an excellent birthday gift. As opposed to buying dinner, since me or my brother do buy the meals for our parents when I visit them in New Mexico. To me, that’s doing nothing special since we do do that all the time. Until the next time Daryl Charley The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to Me

Greetings Readers

Alright - Happy Birthday to me.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to my Mother

Greetings Readers

First thing First

Happy Birthday to Mom

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to Me (& Mom)

Greetings Readers

Nothing really to say...

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Happy Birthday

Greetings Readers

Pretty Simple - Happy Birthday to my Brother.

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday in Colorado

Greetings Readers

Unlike last year when I typed “Happy Birthday” to my father I was able to enjoy the day with my father as well as my mother and brother this year.

We, as a family, decided to go to Claim Jumpers for my father’s birthday dinner. Ok. Ok, my father chose the restaurant, but it was his special day, therefore he gets to chose where he wants to eat.

That’s the way our family operates (MO). If it is your birthday you get to choose the place to eat. Though if there is a very good reason not to eat there then those opinion(s) will be taken into consideration.

We arrived at the time that we wanted and saw it was not that busy, but a bit busy.

After being seated my father and I decided against ordering ribs since I barbequed ribs the day before. However, my brother ordered a full rack and that was okay by all of us. My mother was unsure and thought about ordering a salad entrée, but then it was my brother or perhaps myself suggest that she order the seafood grill shrimp – or was that scallops. Needless to say she did and ate the entire thing. My father and I ordered a top sirloin steak – 12 oz. I would have ordered a larger steak that was $ 29.99, but I was unable to contribute to the dinner that much since I was on a budget. Meaning, I would not be here to make the payment for living where I am at since I would be on vacation. Also, I did not have a chance to save up since this whole vacation came together at the last moment, so to speak. So with mother paying for most of the meal I had to order an entrée reasonably. Common courtesy in our family.

One might say that I should have order the $ 29.99 steak, since I have brought gifts throughout the year when I visit, but in my mind that does not count. I would feel guilty for ordering a meal that expensive and not able to contribute half. Even though my brother was able to pay my half.

I do not know what the norm is for a family birthday spending is, but in our family we spend anywhere from $ 100.00 to $ 200.00 on a birthday dinner for a party of four. That is normal for us and not unusual. We order new things at some times, but other times we order what we want and enjoy the dinner on our special day. After all, there are only four days of the year that we do this for us. As a family we love to eat out and when there is a special occasion we chose a nice place to eat.

Thinking back, my brother and I pick a “new” appetizer to try and then talk over with our parents to see if they are game to try. Well, at Claim Jumpers we tried the Shrimp Taquitos and we have to agree that they tasted very good. Crunchy outside, hot shrimp and a nice flavor. Too bad that we only got to try one a piece. We each chose the dinner that we wanted to eat. And at the end of our meal I asked our waiter if there is anything special for a birthday, which I pointed to my Dad.

“Yes, I can bring a desert.” He replied.

“Please, do not bring any singers, please.” I said

“Not a problem” the waiter responds.

Minutes later we got a mint flavored desert, which was actually very, very good. Four spoons were brought and we devoured the entire desert in no time.

And that was then end of a very nice dinner at Claim Jumpers, though our waiter had many tables to attention to, but we overlooked that issue. He did what he could and did not really ignore us, but left us alone.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

My 21st Birthday Present

Greetings Readers

I was cleaning up the humble abode and I was cleaning up a particular book shelf - dusting, pledging and what not.

I completely forgotten about this item once I had put this on the shelf once more back in the past.

What is it?.

This was the birthday gift that my mother gave to me on my 21st birthday. A customize glass beer mug with my initials and "21" etched on the side of the glass mug.

I have never used the mug for any type of drink. Just never occurred to me to use. I do not think this is an unusual gift. I do not think it is weird. or odd. I am very fond of this gift. Matter of fact, since I think my parents are going to be coming down to Denver hopefully by the end of the month I think I am going to show this to my mother and ask "Do you remember this?" I am betting that she probably remembers, but does not think that I still have this particular.

Is there a reason for this gift? Perhaps? but I have not asked nor do I really need to know. i think this was a nice gift and little did I know to this day that I would still have this gift. Unbroken and not given away. Matter of fact, I am curious how much this mug holds - so I am thinking that I am going to find out how much beer this mug holds.

I think this was the only gift that I received on my 21st birthday. Though, that does not tell how my 21st birthday went. Fucked up. I was working at Bennigan's on the night before my birthday and when the clock struck 12:00 midnight - my co-workers and manager said I am done working. Go have your first drink at the bar. Needless to say, that was my official drink when I turned 21st - the drink was Jack Daniels. Go figure. At that time Jack Daniels meant nothing like it does to me now. Yet, little did I know how much I would enjoy the Single barrel Jack Daniels in this time of my life.

Hmmm... My 21st birthday. Now, that is a story to tell - well of what I can remember of that entire day. Perhaps I will indulge you Readers later down the road.

Perhaps

Note: I put my Oakley sunglasses in the shot to give you Readers some indication of how big and tall that glass mug is.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

My Birthday Cards and Gifts

Greetings Readers

Well, I finally have opened my birthday gifts and birthday cards from my birthday in January. I won 4 dollars from Scratch Lottery Tickets and then I got a lot of Reece Peanut Butter Cups and a bag load with single serving Reece Peanut Butter Cups.

I could not help to feel touched. My friends, co-workers know me so well and something that does not cost alot to buy for my birthday present is wonderful. I am easy.

Hoo Hoo. Hah Hah. Did I just say that? Hee Hee. Shit, I know that bullshit, but only for my birthday a Coca-Cola and/or Reece Peanut Butter Cups is really all I desire from anyone. After all, I usually get what I want for myself.

Oh, get back to that "I am easy." I am the most complicated and according to one/some blogger(s) "the rudest person ever known."

I digress. What made me smile was a comment on one of my birthday cards. I knew who actually wrote the note, but that was and end to a wonderful evening. And that is what I decided to post for the blog picture today

My friends really know me.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Being Rude and Being Kind

Greetings Readers

Something kind of bothered me in the past week or so. I know, I know what’s new – right?

You Readers think you “know” me, but in reality you only are reading about me since I probably do not know who you are.

Does that matter? No. Do I care? A bit, but I am not here to make friends with my blog.

So, when you say you know me, you really do not know me, but you only “know of” me. All you know of me is what I write and care to share with you Readers.

I am not looking for your approval. I am not looking for a new friend in my life. I am not looking for a wife, but am looking for a girl friend =). And the list of reasons could go on and on.

Almost three years ago I started the blog, not knowing where to go (or to begin) and it took a while for me to get into blogging.

What I have come to tell you Readers is the raw truth. Being Honest. And sometimes Honesty hurts. Sometimes being brutally honest makes me seem the rudest person you have read about – ever. I do not disagree.

And I can see how many of you Readers can come to that conclusion. After all, I make it no secret of my “rudeness” and my “issues” I come across and share with you Readers.

I share with the Internet my life and what comes across my path of life.

With us being Human most of us pick out the “bad” points of other people. Not all of us, but most of us do. Hell, I know I do. There are a few people, perhaps more than a few people that would pick out the “good” and say / comment something nice about that. But let us face the truth Readers, we like to pick and point out each other’s faults.

You faithful and new Readers have most likely read about my Grocery store issues, Light Rail Issues, Fast Food Issues, Bus Stop issues and so on. I do not have a problem writing about my issues.

Aside from all the rude issues I have written about I have written about some good deeds and things I have done that none of you Readers would even think of doing.

I am going to tell you Readers in the past year that I have done many good things that would not be considered rude.

I am sure that you Readers read that I used about 1/3 of my Tax Stimulus Refund check to help buy a calving table for my parents. I was not selfish and spend all the money for myself. How many of you Readers spent money on someone else that was not for personal gain? Perhaps like buying a gift for the boy/girl friend in exchange for a fantastic night of sex, which would be for personal gain since you are technically spending the money for yourself.

Did you Readers know that I baked over ten birthday cakes last year for my coworkers who are more than just co-workers? Again, no one asked me to bake a cake for his or her birthday. I did this without asking. I also asked the birthday person what sort of cake they wanted and it could not be a cake that was too exotic. However, when I am making a cake for the person’s special day – I add some alcohol to the cake to give it some essence of Kalhua, Amaretto or rum. How many Cakes did you make for someone’s birthday this past year? And buying a cake, cookies, and cup cakes from a grocery store is not really going out of your way since that is just buying something that you put NO effort in for your friends. And for this year I have made two cakes already.

Did you Readers know that even though I do not believe in Religion, in a manner of speaking (and I am not an Atheist), I still try to go to church once a month and I give a donation from 10 to 20 dollars? How many of you Readers can say that?

When I go and visit my parents in New Mexico at the Ranch I do help out at the Ranch. Even though I am on vacation - I am not on vacation. I work by either working on the dirt road, shoveling shit (cattle, horse, dog and guinea shit), picking up and burning tumbleweeds, feeding all the animals and more importantly I almost do all the cooking when I am at the Ranch. It’s my time to shine and do things for my parents as opposed to being selfish and do nothing while on vacation. I do have that option, but for me that is not an option. I ask many of you Readers how many of you do things for your parents when you visit them? And yes Readers sometimes I do not want to do any of those things, but after starting any of those things I forgot about not wanting doing them and actually start to enjoy about do them. Sounds crazy, but at the end of my vacation on the Ranch I feel damn proud of what I did on my vacation.

The homeless. Well, in my case I have one homeless person on my way to work when I bike a certain way to work. Just one. Every other week I try to give him some money. It may not be a lot, but in my view I have given him something, which is better than nothing. I do not know his name and I do not care, but at least I go out of my way and give what I feel like giving. Many of Readers probably see more than one homeless person and I have to wonder do any of you Readers do anything for any of them? Or even one the homeless – after all they are human too.

How about me giving twenty dollars (for gas) to a fellow runner after the 24 hours of Boulder? I did not mention this in my post story wrap up, but I was planning to take public transportation from Boulder to Centennial. However, as I was resting in the tent with “the bitch” I met and got know a fellow runner who came up from Colorado Springs and eventually asked him for a ride to I-25 and Arapahoe Road. He said no problem. Well, as he pulled in the Arapahoe Marketplace just off I-25 and Arapahoe Road I pulled out my wallet and forced him to take the twenty dollars even though he said no and do not worry about it. In my mind, he did more for me than he thought he did for me. For that - I was thankful and I had to give him money for his kindness. I ask how many of you Readers would have caved in and put away the twenty dollars in your wallet (purse) just because he said he wouldn’t take it?

Mike Shanahan was recently fired, which I did blog about. I was happy about that. I will admit yes I am happy that finally Mike is gone, but it is not entirely about him getting fired. I was and still am happy that there is going to be a new coach. Well, when I got my “Christmas Miracle” I bought a 12 pack of Moose Drool Microbrew beer and gave one bottle to each of my closest co-workers. That was me being nice and buying everyone a round of drinks. It was not the “cheap” round of pitcher beer for everyone. I wanted my friends to taste something new, or something they would not try on their own. That was not rudeness, that was I being nice. I ask how many of Readers would do that if the coach of your football team where you live was fired and was something that much needed after years of not making the playoffs? I am betting most of you Readers would just “talk” and not celebrate with buying the first round for people you want to share your happiness with.

Last month after giving my Qdoba girl her Christmas card I was about the happiest I could be that entire month. So when I saw my neighbor Mike in distress I asked him what was wrong and soon found out. I listened and then I said to Mike that I would go to the store to get him some Diet Mountain Dew since he could not do it himself. I ask you Readers how many of you would have done that for someone who is mentally handicapped after getting home from work?

Gift Giving – How many of you Readers give gifts when it is not their birthday, Christmas, anniversary, etc? I am betting most of my male Readers do not, at all! My Women Readers do since I know for a fact that I have gotten a bottle of Coca-Cola of out the blue. I give drinks (juice, water, soft drinks) out of the blue to fellow friends for no reason. Sometimes a person needs just that little gift to know that someone does care. And my brother – do you know that I give gifts to my brother each time I go and visit my parents? Bandannas, Playstation 2 games, Jack Daniels merchandise, and VCR tapes of taped shows I recorded to name a few things I give as gifts. And for my parents – I bring DVD’s, US Open Tennis merchandise, spices and buying groceries when I am visiting the Ranch to name some of the gifts I bring when I visit them. Again, are you Readers just as giving when there is not an event to give a gift?

Lunches – How many of you Readers received from your clients/vendors a “lunch on them” this past year? I received five this past year. If I am the rudest person you have ever “known” well you really do not know me. I ask again – how many vendor/clients have bought you lunch this past year?

And I could go on. I have written about “the Good, the Bad and the Ugly” My faithful Readers would know both the good and the bad. And if you are just tuning in you can access my history (archives) and catch up on my old blog posts.

What I just wrote I am not defending my stance/views, since there is nothing to defend. However, if you Readers think you “know” me you really don’t. I suggest that you take a long and good hard look in the mirror before calling and/or thinking that I am the rudest person you have ever read about. I know for a fact that your shit does not smell sweeter than mine. After all I know (or read) about what you have told me and I would have to say that celebrating one year (and perhaps two years coming this year) without driving does not make you special in my book. After all, I have been biking/commuting for about 12 years now. I do not need to state that. And I still have both of my vehicles, even though I get to drive them about once a year. So, you telling the world about how you rode a bike one year without almost any driving is not special. If you have to sell your vehicle so be it, otherwise I have no desire to sell my 86 Camero or 96 Amigo. One vehicle is a classic and the other has seven more years to become a classic.

In closing Readers, I am not perfect and I have never, ever made that claim. Yet, I have written about the good, the bad and the ugly, whereas other Readers have only wrote about the good. If you cannot write about “the bad” then perhaps you have some secrets. Or perhaps you are insecure about yourself, worried about how you may portray yourself to others, etc.

There is more I could add, but I think I have touched upon what I wanted to write about. Perhaps this is the year to blog about you to me and the rest of the world and let us read about you. Be honest. After all, we need to know if your shit is sweeter than mine.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to Us

Greetings Readers

Another year and "one day closer to death". As I state every year from that Pink Floyd song.

My parents were able come up from the Ranch and visit me for a few days. More specifically to celebrate the birthdays of me and my Mother this month. And also to go and see the National Western Stock Show.

I guess this I will not be able to go out and visit the bars and get some free shots and try to remember how I got home. Hah hah. I was doing good last year until the last place I went to. Thankfully, I was on foot and was only about a mile away from the place I drank the last drinks of my birthday. And no, I did not desire that, but it is that one say of the year and if I happen to get women bartenders I tend to get birthday shots =). No I am not handsome, but cute. Well, cute enough and able to talk a free drink/shot from a bartender

Getting back to the birthday. Most of the time, as a family, we tend to have a birthday dinner. This time around we decided to go and have Sunday Brunch. The Brunch was decided by my Mother and we decided to go to the Fresh Fish Company in Denver. Not a problem for me since it is an all you can eat brunch for about 24 dollars a piece. I am not worried about the price, but I am worried about the all you can eat crab legs they offer at brunch.

Oh yes, I make sure that I have an empty stomach so I can dine just on the Crab legs. They are are not King Crab Legs, but crab legs never-the-less.

About an hour and quarter later that was when the excitement happened. I was not sitting in a spot to see what happen, but sure as hell I heard the aftermath. Apparently, someone fell, fainted, slipped, who knows, but the next thing you know there is a person on the floor. At the time it happened we did not know if it was a man or woman. We could see the person on the floor and see that the person's chest is still moving up and down.

My parents had the view, but did not see what happened either. So there I was sitting across them mouthing silently "what happened? where? Did you see?" I wanted to be just like all the other gawkers, but I did not want to add to the event that was happening near us.

Boy oh boy the section of the restaurant fell silent pretty quickly and thankfully our breakfast was over. I feel bad for the people who might have just started eating. Or I feel bad for the people who were seated next to the table that the person who was on the floor was at. I even felt kind of bad for the manager that was on duty and what perhaps she was thinking happened.

And I guess that would be the excitement of me and mom's birthday. Yet, the other excitement would be shopping and spending the entire day doing it.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

"You Should Dismount"

Greetings Readers

Before I start I want to say that I have a few blog posts that I am going to post from the end of December so pay attention to the posting for December since I will be catching up for quite a few. There are reasons, but if you think you know me then you probably know the reason why I did not post.

Now, onto the "You Should Dismount"

So, today I had to bring in a cake for a friend who had a birthday a couple of Sundays ago. With it being the end of the year there was our month end close, year end close, and holiday time off which means some people are gone so celebrating a birthday is not really good since most of us are gone on different days of the year.

Anyway, with some ice still left on parts of the bike route I take going to work I decided to take RTD and then LightRail to work. Just in case I might slip on the ice and destroy the cake I made and I would hate for that to happen.

So I took a bus part of the way and then I had to bike a bit of a way to the Arapahoe Light Rail Station. Anyway, to the West of the Arapahoe Light Rail Station there is remodeling being done on the walkway from the Arapahoe Light Rail Station to the Street of Fiddler's Green Circle.

I have taken a screen print and drew on the picture to estimate the "new" Fucked Up Walkway that was designed. Yes Readers, I will take a picture later, but right now this is bothering me too much to wait and now with that comment I have to blog about this.

I do not remember if I "drew" in all the curves in the walkway, but that is certainly the amount of switchbacks on the new walkway from the Arapahoe Light Rail Station to Fiddler's Green Circle. I think I saw, well I did not see the old walkway so it is a safe bet that we "Commuters" are going to be forced with taking the new walkway.

Anyway, this new walkway has just been introduced in the past two or three weeks, I think. Let me tell you it fucking sucks. With me being so used to two straight walkways and now forced to be going through 3 switchbacks and about 5 corners sucks. Sucks!

I digress, but I wanted to let you Readers know that I fucking hate the new walkway.

This morning I approached the new walkway and I see that there were a few commuters who had just gotten off the Light Rail and were all walking to their place of work. I approached the walkway and slowed down a lot, but I did not dismount. As far as I know there is not a sign saying to dismount. Yet.

So, with me being me, I am taking what I can within the law and not breaking the law. That's another topic, but for this sakes there is no sign indicating dismount. However Readers, on the Light Rail side going to Fiddler's Green Circle there is a sign that says dismount from bike. I have seen that sign and have ignored this since the times that I have gone through there are no pedestrians on the new walkway. That is not an excuse, but if I am the only one on the walkway I am going to stay on my bike and ride on the walkway.

But, going from the Fiddler's Green Circle to Arapahoe Light Rail Station there was not a sign that I saw. Perhaps because there is still construction going on that side of the walkway. I do not know.

With that in mind I stayed on my bike and coasted slowly through the walkway. Right foot in the toe clip and the left foot pushing me along the walkway since I am not pedaling. I slow down even more when I approach more than one person walking. And I come to a complete stop when the pedestrian will not move out of my way. I have the right of way since I am on right side of the walkway (but as a cyclist I do not have the right the way in a walkway), but the pedestrian will not move from my way. So, with that I stop and wait and that means that he/she will have to move from my right of way. Oh yes, I get satisfaction. Minute, but satisfaction never-the-less.

The pedestrians and I past each other and soon the walkway was mine to me - meaning I can be all over the walkway and I could put my left foot and coast down down to the Arapahoe Light Rail Station weaving through the switchbacks.

Lo and behold I see a bike rider walking his bike up the walkway and I was approaching him pretty quickly. I slow down once more since we were going to meet at a corner.

"You should dismount." he said to me just before passing me.

"Thanks for your advice" I say as we pass each other.

This was all said non-chalantly to each other.

Yes, he was right and I should have, but I did not since there was no other pedestrians. And also there was no sign from the Fiddler's Green Circle saying "to dismount"

I got to the Arapahoe Light Rail Station and waited for the train and I thought about more what had just happened. I was mad, but I had no right to be mad. I was a bit sarcastic, but still within what I would consider "normal" for myself. I will keep doing what I can, until I can not.

Then again, that brings me to tomorrow's topic, which will negate what I just touched upon (in my opinion). Most of you bike riders will agree with me, but a few others will shake their head and remind me that it is posted I can not ride in that area.

Update 7:45 PM - I was reading last year's blog and I would have to say that this was the first Light Rail incident of 2009. Go figure - it is like clockwork to get into an "incident" at the beginning of January.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Rain Day

Greetings Readers

I was awake about 4:30 AM and I was laying on my bed watching the night sky get lit up with flashes of lightening outside my bed window. I was also waiting for the sound of rolling thunder happening in my part of the urban city.

As Pink Floyd once printed - A Delicate Sound of Thunder.

I even opened the window about two inches so I could hear the sound of thunder more clearly. The rolling thunder was more predominant in my mind since I had closed my eyes just to listen to the falling steady rain and the long rolling thunder happening outside my window. I would estimate the rolling thunder was about 5 to 10 seconds long in duration.

I have to admit every once in a while I appreciate being home, inside, in bed and nothing to think about at all. A serene moment. Just enjoying the moment.

So there I lay, I turned off the radio and I did not even bother turning on the TV to listen to the news. I just wanted to enjoy the morning and how the day starting on the day of my brother's Birthday. So...

Happy Birthday Brother.

As you readers now can see I have record of this day that I did say Happy Birthday, even though I am not going to call him up. Though, I have decided to buy him a mini-Ipod since I think I have swayed him with my Ipods that bring down on vacation and show him. 50.00 bones and I do not think that is too much of a cost to give up.

With the steady rain in part of town I decided to ride though I kept the riding to a minimum. Meaning, I took light rail in to work - part of the way. Though, my bike shorts still got soaked, as well as my bandanna, my glasses were to watery to wear anymore and my socks were soaked. Yet, I knew all this was expected so there was no reason to be surprised. I did wear fingered biking gloves. I did not know if the wind was blowing since I did not watch the morning news. When the wind blows a bit and there is rain, fingerless biking gloves, wind and rain do not mix. My fingers are usually red when I get inside from biking.

Spoiler alert for Grand Theft Auto IV - This weekend I happen to walking around (in the gaming world) when I hear a pigeon cooing, or at that moment, some bird. By this time, I had a few guns and I was trigger happy. I decided I was going to shoot that bird. I got the weapon out, took aim - bang. Wow! Seeing a pigeon get blown to feathers was pretty incredible to see on the Playstation 3 console. I am pretty sure that if this was on the Playstation 2 console there would not be the same effect of a pigeon being blown to just feathers. What I mean, I was pretty impressed how there was just a ball of feathers left after shooting the pigeon off the ledge (not to mention computerized blood). I know this is something unusual to point out, but I am pretty impressed that some designer took the Playstation 3 computing power and put some detail into a pigeon being blown to feathers after being shot.

As Elmer Fudd might have said "be wery, wery quiet I'm huntin' pigeons." I have 194 to go.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Bike Tires, Sunglasses & "Please"

Greetings Readers

The subject of Bike Tires – Continued

So, when I do get a new set of bike tires I would have to say that Murphy’s Law somehow strikes.

There I am biking wherever when suddenly a vehicle pulls out or a vehicle decides to cut me off and I immediately have to apply both sets of brakes. Hard. And when I mean hard I mean locking up my brakes and skidding on the pavement/concrete. How makes times have I said “Fuck” and wonder just how much bike tire residue I left on the road and how many miles I just lost from that hard skid. Oh, that feeling is just overwhelming. Knowing that I locked up my bike tires and had to skid on the road.

That scenario just burns me up.

The next issue with my new bike tires. Now, as I stated in the previous blog I do buy the more expensive bike tire. Only the best. However, I get “burned up” when I think about how much I paid for that 700 x 23 bike tire and I then compare that to buying a speed rated tire (Firestone or Michelin) for my Camero. I usually pay $ 100.00 to $ 150.00 for each tire. And as you know those vehicle tires are over 12 inches wide. As opposed to my bike tire, which in this case, is 23 cm wide. A big fucking difference and I get worked up thinking about how much I paid for a bike tire compared to my Camero tire. Urgh! Damn. That’s just wrong. And the bike tire is only a thin tire as oppose to a vehicle tire, which can last more than a year. A bike tire only last as long as you treat the tire right and depending on the miles you put on the tires. It is just wrong. Wrong! (Readers, you have to imagine me sounding like Cartman when he says the word “Wrong”).

Alright readers, I think I am finally done with talking about bike tires. Tubes will have to be a future subject since that would be a lengthy subject.

As you can see on today’s blog is my birthday present to myself. Yep – Oakley’s M Frame – Fire Iridium vented sweep Carbon black frame. I went 8 months without Oakley’s so I planned (saved) to get a new Oakley M Frame for my birthday. Also, I lost my cheap sunglasses, which I have had for over 5 years, this past Sunday.

I think this is the fifth set of Oakley’s in 10 years that I have purchased. All previous Oakley’s have been “lost” by me. And when I say “lost” that means I left my Oakley’s somewhere and by the time I realize I left them wherever my Oakley’s were gone. I left the Oakley’s, but really my Oakley’s were stolen. Or as Ben Kenobi would say “from a certain point of view”. My ignorance lead to my Oakley’s to be “stolen” by someone else. I do have to say that on all of the Oakley’s that were “stolen” my Oakley’s were pretty used and scratched up on the lens.

However, the people who “stole” my Oakley’s have the frame so all that person needs to do is buy a new lens, which is a bit cheaper than buying a whole new Oakley Sunglasses.

I guess this is something that I have come to terms with. I have to have the best and I will pay the cost. I do have various lenses – Blue Iridium, Red Iridium, Yellow lens, Clear lens, Brown lens (heater style), Black lens and an Orange lens. But obviously, if there is no Oakley M Frame then the rest of my Oakley lenses are useless.

The past 8 months I had to ride with my cheap sunglasses I had up until last Sunday. I have the sunlight coming in from the sides since the cheap sunglasses were not wrap around glasses. I also had the sun reflected back into my eyes when the sun was at a certain angle to be reflected from in the inside of my cheap sunglasses. Yet, I dealt with the inconvenience until I felt I needed a new Oakley M Frame.

In my personal opinion, any bike rider who does not own an Oakley sunglasses is not a true biker/cyclist. Yeah yeah, I know that I have not had any Oakley’s sunglasses for the past 8 months and technically I would fall under that “not a true cyclist”. A conundrum. But, I did wear my very, very old Oakley’s every once in a while. Old school baby! Perhaps I will post a picture on tomorrow’s blog.

Once again I am a name brand wh-re.

Readers, I want to state that I am not supporting Oakley’s nor giving them an endorsement. They have not even done at thing for me nor from word of mouth would they even think of sponsoring me for wearing their product.

Oakley’s are a great lens. I would say that I look good with the Oakley Sweep style on me. And with that let me close on that subject.

By the way readers, the girl that was helping me in the Oakley store (at Cherry Creek Mall) had very striking eyes. I was attracted to her eyes and eyelashes. I am not sure why I zeroed in on her eyes. She was petite, young, and had a nice looking body. Yet her eyes were striking. Should you ask me what color her eyes where I couldn't tell you reader what color they were. Go and try to figure that shit out.

Alright readers – time for another incident on RTD. I had to take RTD Sunday afternoon since I wanted to be dressed in street clothes as opposed to bike clothes.

It was about 7 PM Sunday night and I was on my way home from Cherry Creek Mall. Me and this woman were waiting together on the bus. Trying to warm up from the cold outside.

“What time is it?”

I thought to myself for a millisecond – Should I ask her for the magic word?

I replied “about 7:29”

She said nothing else.

Not for the entire ride. As I pulled the cable for my stop I calmly said to her.

“The next time that you ask a stranger for the time make sure that you use the words please and/or thank you. The next person may not be as nice as I was”

She gave me a look like how dare I talk to her like that. Yet, I did not expect this sort of thing from a white woman. She did not say sorry or anything else. I did not say anything else. I had the past two miles to think about what I wanted to say and how to say this to her without being aggressive.

I was semi-irked that she did not use the word “Please” and/or “thank you”. Common fucking courtesy. Yet, since I had my new Oakley sunglasses I was happy. And I made sure that she heard me say “thank you and have a nice evening” to the RTD bus driver. Let her fucking think about the bitch she was being.

Yes readers - I expect a “Please” and/or “Thank you” when the situation calls for those two words.

This morning I was waiting for the bus. I was lazy about biking to work this morning.

“Boy, the bus is running late.”

This was uttered by a woman sitting at the same bus stop I was at. I was not looking at her, but I could see from the corner of my eye that she had turned to me and say this. With my new Oakley’s on she could not tell where the fuck I was looking. Like the way it should be.

Also, she could see my earphones in my ear since she is looking at the side of my head. My white earphones are pretty striking against my hair and skin. I could hear her, but also I was listening to ClubTiesto on my Ipod. I choose to not to acknowledge her – which is my given right.

Then, that “magical” sentence popped out of her mouth.

“Do you know what time is it”

I would say it was not even a nanosecond this time. I was smiling on the inside, but I could not smile nor turn my head to look at her and acknowledge that question. No way! Sure I know what time it is, the G-Shock watch on my left wrist will answer that question. Just say the magic word – “please”.

Yes readers – She did not say the “magic word” and this time I was not cold, nor happy with pure delight. I am back to my old self. Until she said “Please” she could wonder all morning at that bus stop.

And this so funny to me since technically 12 hours ago I had the exact question posed to me.

I want the fucking courtesy I have earned through my life and you best better believe it I will either get it or not get it. If I do, then respect. If not, then you better take a long look at yourself and consider reviewing your manners.

Deja-vu - Dallas Cowboys lost again, like last year (in a manner of speaking). Not this time on a fumble. I blame Jessica Simpson. Basically, The Cowboys just did not "show up" this week. Yet, I got choked up hearing T.O. talk about it was not.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Biking/Cycling in the Gutter

Greetings Readers

Riding on the road. I am not sure what you readers picture/think when I say/write that.

I guess I take for granted what that sentence means and what that may mean to you.

When I ride on the road or in the Street that is sort of not the truth. I am actually riding in the gutter. The gutter (the concrete portion of the road) that is about foot to a foot and a half wide. I do ride in the streets when there is no gutter or as in winter there is snow and/or ice in the gutter. But only briefly then I go back into the gutter.

I do not believe in riding in the road. I know that as a driver that seeing a rider in the road just pisses me off and very, very deep inside I have this urge to drive as close as I can to this rider and show them that they do not belong in the road. No, I have not done this nor would I, but believe me readers my other friends have felt this and when you hear this from your friends this is something that is quite "normal".

So, that is one of the reasons I ride in the gutter. Yet, riding in the gutter did not come easy. Nor did I learn overnight. There was/is the danger of having your right pedal hit the curb. And you know that means. One hit and you could lose your balance and either go into the street or not in the street. Now, I can basically ride 6 to 8 inches from the curb and feel so comfortable.

Yet, with me finally learning to ride in the gutter I was able to learn to keep riding in a straight line. I do not weave all over the road, in a manner of speaking. I learned to be aware of where I was riding since in the gutter there are all sort of hazards/items. I learned to scrape my tires against the curb while riding. There is no reason for this except that I can.

Now, the picture that I have posted on today's blog is a picture of almost any road anywhere. Does not matter. There is the road, the gutter, and the sidewalk. Now, what would you readers choose to ride. I bet almost 90 percent of you would take the side walk. Yes, the nice wide sidewalk. Not to mention that you are going uphill so most of you readers will probably do some weaving of the bike. However, me I would still take the gutter. I do not have a reason why I would take the gutter as opposed to the empty road and sidewalk. That's just me.

On this particular road there is a sign that says "Share the road" which pictures a bike rider and car. So, the vehicles on this particular stretch of road really can not bent out of shape for me being in the gutter. Of course, that does not stop someone from not getting worked up for me being in the road/gutter.

Yet, riding in the gutter is sometimes not a option that I would take. On major travelled roads with a lot of traffic I will ride on the sidewalk. Period. With the heavy volume of vehicles I do not feel safe riding in the gutter. Also, the odds of "pissing off" drivers dramatically increases from a non-heavy volume road. Also tempting the Biking Gods as much as I have in the past 12 years may make the Biking Gods thinking twice about me. Hah hah.

At night I do not ride in the streets. Again, I may have biking lights everywhere on my bike, but with the dark and all that is still dangerous to even think about riding in the street.

Should you readers ask me do I ever ride in the street? Oh yes! Sunday morning with my Sunday Morning ritual. If you want to catch a glimpse of me just be one of the vehicles out on Arapahoe road early Sunday Morning. I actually love riding in the road (not in the gutter) biking like a mad crazy cyclist going west (downhill) on Arapahoe Road. Sometimes East if I am going to a different location to get my paper. That Sunday morning ritual is one of the reasons I like do my Sunday Morning ritual. To actually bike down a majorly travelled road that is empty is so TABOO. Yet, Sunday Morning I practically have the road to myself and the ride about mile and a half, never-the-less I am riding that length so quickly. So thank you to all the people who sleep in Sunday morning in the Arapahoe area. =)

My birthday came and went. The "mom and pop" liquor store that I frequent were very nice to me and gave me a tiny bottle of Vodka as a birthday present. That was such a nice gesture by her.

As the final minutes of my birthday was coming to an end I stopped by CB & Potts and had a few drinks and a Courtesy "birthday shot". Again a very nice gesture. A Washington Apple is what I think she called it.

By the way readers - the National Western Stock show has once more come to Denver and I think I might go tomorrow. I want to see some Cowgirls and those tight wranglers!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to my Mom

Greetings Readers

If you have followed for at least a year then this will come to no surprise.

Happy Birthday to my Mom

There. I have stated this so my mom can not say that I did not remember her birthday once more. Last year was nice since I had back-up was covered, so to speak.

Now, I need to revisit a portion of my topic from yesterday.

By no means do I not get mad while on a bike, but when I do I really do get mad.

Otherwise, I may get mad at the moment and then it is gone. Forgotten about.

When I ride - I ride. I love listening to the music in my ears (whether from my CD Player or Ipod). I like the way I am on a bike. I like the way I look on whatever bike I chose to ride that day. I love my bike short and showing off, as my old co-worker would use this word, "awesome" thighs. Rock hard baby. Nice and tan year round. Matter of fact I like flexing the muscles in my legs just to show off the muscles. Now, this year since I have been working out at the Colorado Athletic Club (the CAC) I am ready to show off some muscles in my biceps. Granted, I am slim, but now I know there is muscle definition and I am a lot bigger than I was 5 months ago. I love wearing my bike (cycling) jerseys. And I think that the reason is that I need to get my money's worth by wearing those jerseys. Granted, some I got on sale, but otherwise I am spending 60 to 80 dollars per bike jersey. Matter of fact, what is sad is that my cycling wardrobe is more expensive than my entire clothing I wear. That is a true sign of a cyclist is when you biking wardrobe exceeds your everyday wear. I love wearing my Oakleys M frames. I like wearing one of my bandannas on my head (head bowed in rememberance). I love the tans lines I have all over my body. I like my cycling socks - oh yes. I like the way I ride. I like the way I feel. I like pushing myself to the limits, whatever it may be at that moment. I like riding down other riders. I like hill climbing ( I know I am an "awesome" climber ). I like the way my Blue Pro Race2 Michelin tires look on my bikes. I love 100 degree plus days. I love the look of a woman's calves I may see on my rides which just melts my heart. I like the glimpe of a thong showing. I like my bike odometers (yes plural - I have two odometers on each bike). I like the way the bandannas are wrapped around my handlebars. I like my post ride hangout at the Arapahoe Marketplace. I like the way I and my look while not riding. I like having a cold Coca-Cola in my water bottle cages. I love the feeling when a rider is trying to keep up with me. I love the white line on the road. I love the sweat rolling down my head from exertion. I love the timing of myself from point A to point B. I love the way that only my fingers are tanned and the rest of the hand is not. I like how my Oakleys keep part of my face from not being tanned.

As you can read. There is just so much that I love/like about riding. I probably could keep on going. All these moments are what I am. The dislikes - yes there are some - are so few that I just do not dwell on them.

Is it Phil Liggett who comments often on pedals of anger? Pedals of Anger. No such thing in my book.

Matter of fact, it is pedalling of desire/want. Or the "love of".

Today's picture is Britney Spears. Well, things have changed for me about her. No longer desireable to me. Now, the Navel I so fell in love with just no longer does it for me.

P.S. If any of you readers need to know what to get for my birthday. Perhaps a woman. =)

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Welcome to October, Mon Amie

Greetings Readers

I am not sure if the website on where I registered for Tiesto info and stuff got my birthday wrong, but in my email inbox I got a email wishing me a Happy Birthday. I like the personal message, but only a few months early. At least I get to post the picture on today's log.

I guess I sort of care now, but today is the big day in Denver. Today, is the playoffs, well a one day game playoff series, Both teams are 89-73. Go figure the Colorado Rockies would even have a chance for this sort of thing. It is nice to see the Rockies have a chance, but in my opinion is would be for the better to lose tonight. I would to see a blow out in the playoffs. Sorry readers, the Colorado Rockies is our Baseball team.

T minus thirteen days...

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

March Wonderland

Greetings People

Same as the last time readers - I need for you to be witnesses and also to blog so that my father knows that I did remember his birthday.

Happy Birthday

In the past 12 hours snow has been falling and there was quite a lot on the ground this morning. Oh you bet readers - I biked into work this morning, even though there was a slight hesitation on taking RTD. Then I thought of the $ 3.00 dollars that I would lose to public transportation. So, I got the bike out and got a rolling about 6:50 AM just because of all the snow. I say there was about six inches on the ground where I live. Though most of the snow on the concrete was melted.

The snow was slushy and I did get "slushed" a few times, but other than that I was okay on the ride in. Going home is going to be a different matter. My riding clothes are soaked and will not be dry by the time I get off work this evening. So, the hardest part tonight will be putting on the wet clothes. Urgh. Not looking forward to that.

Another new SouthPark episode last night. This episode was a lot better that last week's episode. Oh, that Cartman though.

I forgot to mention, not that anyone would care, but I bought two new pairs of Levi on Tuesday over at Park Meadows Mall. I needed a couple more of jeans to replace some that are starting to show through. Each were $ 29.99 and change, but I guess worth it since I can wear jeans to work every/any day I want. Woo hoo.

I guess I have one more thing to add. If any of you readers know what sort of bike caps I have on my tire valves... well then you should be able to figure out the type of earrings I bought the other day. Yes readers, earrings, but I only wear one. I bought them so I can match. I like my new ear rings.

Not watching, but in the 2007 Sony Ericsson Open - Roger Federer lost to the same opponent he lost his winning streak to. I do not know if the was luck since he done won against Federer twice in the past month. I know nothing more than that readers. I care, but I do not care that much to find out.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to Me

Greetings People

Happy Birthday to me.

Let me get right to the point of today's topic

“Something” has once again inflamed a passion in me to compose a blog about “something” I have addressed in the days of old. Nevertheless, I have to broach this subject every two or three years, basically whenever I get a new circle of friends. Or when someone discovers the other side of me.

Let us commence with an example that has inspired me to get my creative juices to ignite for 2007.
I am not sure how to initiate this blog, but let me embark on how all this transpired down in my hood of Englewood, Colorado.

As I stated in yesterday’s blog I at long last got around to utilizing the gift card that I acquired from RTD.

Well, I began the 10th day of January earlier than usual. Perhaps I was hoping to get a call from my mom, since I do not know when their day starts these past few weeks. We have had five newborn calfes in the past four weeks and my parents have been busy trying to keep those newborns alive – the cold, the snow, the ice chopping, feeding, etc. I have digressed so let me return to the story at hand.

I even left early for work with a little spring in my step. The morning temperature was cool, but not cold. A slight wind was blowing in from the North with the winter sun shining ever so brightly, but providing no warmth in the bitter beginning of the winter season that started on December 21.

This is where the story truly commences - I go into Starbucks with my own Starbucks “old school” coffee thermos in one hand and gift card in the other hand. There was no line for ordering, which is an amazing thing since that is very unusual for that Starbucks location. I walked up to the register and speak the line of dialogue I always say when ordering the only order I get at any Starbucks store.

“A large Mocha Frap with whipped cream in my own container and that’s it.”

I spoke clear and slow, since I have encountered numerous incidents as the one I am going to recount to you faithful readers, here and now. So, while I was saying the above rehearsed sentence I reached out to the cash register woman operator (the young 20’s college student working at Starbucks so I have spending money) presenting my gift card, from RTD, as expenditure for the Mocha Frap I have been thinking about ever since obtaining the gift card.

“Would you like a scone or muffin?”

What the fuck I thought to myself. I know what I just previously said and I looked at her and reiterated what I said – word for word not fifteen seconds ago. Readers, I will recite myself in this sort of circumstance so the person who is serving/helping me does not have to inquire for a third time. If she/he then has to ask the exact question once more I will give that person the look of “I am not going to repeat myself so you better consider about getting off that pedestal that makes you one step closer to god than me because I have all the time in the world since you decided to challenge my initial request.” I was not going to repeat myself for a third time nor will I start a new line of discussion.

Readers, this is like a double-sided sword and there is only one side or the other side. There is no middle. One may say that this is a conundrum. However, for me this is a situation normal for me and I am willing to challenge my last word of conversation. Period.

As I touched upon before, even before getting to the door of Starbucks, I departed out my front door with a spring in my step. I even got up earlier than usual to have ample time to go to Starbucks this morning, so there was no “attitude” to begin with. In layman terms, nothing has yet to piss me off on this fogless morning. I had woken up with a layout of my morning’s agenda, feeling like a new man and no chip on my shoulder.

Now, back to the story… there was an awkward moment of silence for her. However, for me the taciturnity was nothing unknown and nor was I going to utter one more word of dialogue. You could parallel my stance to Rosa Parks saying those infamous words “I’m not moving.” Or as a “brutha” would say “Did I stutter fool?! I’m not moving. And if you choose to continue you will be taught what I learned from the school of hard knocks. For real.”

After that short moment of silence she starts to ring my order up and after a second or two she appeared, to me, that she was done ringing me up. What I noticed while she was ringing me up on the register she did not ring up my discount. Word. So, I say to her “Is that the total? I did not see my discount for bringing in my own thermos.”

She immediately knew I “got her” (busted her), but she indicated that she was not done and then depressed a few more buttons on the register and my new adjusted total came up, with the discount. Oh yeah, no smile came to my face, but oh how that lifted my getting “pissed off” mood. I mentally chalked this up as another win in my “Customer is always right” column and took my gift card back and dropped no money in the tip jar. I know the discount is only a dime, but she tried to fuck me out of a dime, when in fact she fucked herself and the barrister out of that dime, plus more when she had asked that million dollar question With me walking out my front door feeling like Jaci spent the night, I might have left a dollar tip on the Mocha Frap order. We will never know though nor will I give a second thought about what could have been.

Yes, that is what I wrote. I left no tip. She fucked that up when she asked if I wanted a scone when I had clearly stated…

“A large Mocha Frap with whipped cream in my own container and that’s it.”

And she had the audacity to try and get me to say something more or answer her only question she asked.

And that, my friends, was the morning episode of my mother’s birthday in this brand new year of 2007. Now, when my mom says did I remember her birthday this year I can say “Hell yeah that was the day I went into Starbucks with my gift card from RTD to have my Mocha Frap with whipped cream.” Hah hah.

With my morning incident presented to you I am pretty sure I have gotten your attention. Whether for the good or bad I could care less. I am responsible for my actions, but more consequentiality, I am not the submissive person in this affair. I was the dominant person. I am not succumbing to “the man”, nor to a life partner, the wife, the children, the girlfriend or age. I have not become jaded to the world nor been oppressed by anyone else. I have not forgotten where I came from and where I stand with my morals and myself. Meaning, I will take no shit when I do not have to.

I am an equal opportunity person to everyone I meet, but there is always something that will either make me respect you or not give you the benefit of me, yet being only as cordial as I could be. There are a lot of things I wrote down that you readers would disagree with, but before you call the kettle black, meaning me. You better take a look at your own life before judging me by the stories I communicate to you readers.

Yes, I understand the cashier may be required to say “anything else?” or offer something else or it’s free according to their policy. Fine. But, I repeat, when I include in my conversation words such as “that’s it” or “I only want this” or “and that will be all” that means that. Do not ask me for anything else. Depending on the day I may be having I might be the sarcastic son of a bitch I am when I am on the bike and say something like “Did I ask you for your phone number? Well then, I guess you know the answer to both questions that have been asked in the past 15 seconds by both of us.” This customer is right and I dare you to try your luck with me, because I promise to give you my undivided attention of me getting up in yo face. Or if am pissed off/foul mood I will become like a bitch and give the old silent treatment. Silence is such a powerful tool for me and I will often implore this method.

You may be thinking to yourself “What a son of a bitch. Not leaving a tip.” Again I say, you better get off your high horse or you better get off that step that makes you one step closer to god, because I ask you readers how many of you tip a fast food joint worker? I am proud to say I do, but only the regular fast food joint I go to for a gallon of Sweet Tea – Chick-fil-A. In addition to tipping, I also managed to get the two I deal with a 10.00 gift certificate to Starbucks. I did this act out of the respect I get when I go in there for my gallon of Sweet Tea. These two employees immediately start my order and I do not have to say one word on what I want. That is service my friend and there is no need for tipping them since society deemed them not people to tip, only waiter/waitress, bartenders, etc. The day any of you readers tip a fast food worker then you will have earned my respect and my attention to any issues/concerns you may have about me. Otherwise you better recognize.

Note, I have never stiffed a waiter/waitress out of tip money. I will give 15 % percent no matter how bad of a service the waiter/waitress may have provided. I was a waiter back in the day and I know from experience firsthand on waiting and tipping. There are a lot of people who tip less than 15 %. The government requires that we account for 15% of income made. Back in the day, I was earning $ 2.01 an hour plus tips. I am not sure how much that has changed, but that is pretty rough if you can not wait tables. Me? I made 18 to 20 percent when I worked about 95 percent of the time. More and less other times.

The cashier girl, well young woman, at Starbucks provided a service by taking my order and ringing me up. However, she did not make my Mocha Frap. She only gave me about a minute of her services. After that my order was in the hands of the barrister for the rest of my visit. Should I have still left a tip in the jar? Fuck no. Do you let a puppy piss all over the house without acknowledge of how wrong that was. Fuck no! You exert dominance, as the dog whisperer Romero would voice. So, the next time they see my thermos, my face, and remember not to ask a fucking question when I state “that’s it” they have learned not to question this customer. You may think I am a face among thousands that visits that certain Starbucks, but alas I have a certain something that one can not help to forget. Character. Okay, okay, now I am full of it, but I do have that certain impression on most people.

You may be saying to yourself “ I should have apologized to her” Fuck that. I do not apologize for her not listening to me in the first place. She did not offer any apologies to me for asking a question she knew she asked nor saying “oops sorry, I was not listening to you”

Readers I will pause for now since this has already gotten pretty lengthy

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Happy Birthday to my Mom

Greetings People

I have to post this message even though my mother will not even know this nor would she be able to find her way around the internet to this blog site, but here it goes.

Happy Birthday

There, I have it on record that I did not forget her birthday and I can use you readers as my witness to this well wish.

However, you readers will have to wish my birthday tomorrow.

Soprano's on A/E tonight.

Oh, and this morning I finally used that gift card I got from RTD last month. If you new readers need any background on this please see an earlier blog about the gift card.

I got my favorite drink there - A large mocha frap with whip cream in my own container. Which means I better get my discount for bringing in my own mug and I do not want them to use their paper container to put my Mocha Frap in. Also, when I saw Large that means Large, none of the venti, or whatever words that Starbucks uses for small, medium, and Large sizes. I bring in a large container, I say Large and you charge me for a large and I say that's it - it had better be Large and that's it. When I say "that's it" it means that's it. I do not want a scone, I do not want your muffin, I do not want to try the house blend. Do not do the semanics retort on me. Do not pull the know it all, I'm young, going to college routine and asked me what was I ordered again when I clearly and slowly said when I ordered and handed over my thermos to you.

As you can probably tell readers I can not put up with that sort of attitude or ignorance.

Readers, I almost got on another roll and I better stop and let this go, for now. Perhaps I will return to this since I started to think about this more and more.

Anyway, until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete