BMX'n and 1 more Beat Down

Here is a fine picture looking at one of the salt flats just outside of Salt Lake City. They were just like looking at snow for awhile but is was 95 degrees outside. The salt flats were long and seemed to go on forever and I wish I had the time to take the Excursion out and run it wide open to see what the beast could do.

Today was the lat time trial at CR. But I didn't ride it I spent the night on the bmx track again. It was fun to see the gang there again I can't wait until the indoor so we can all get together and blast each other out of the gates again this year. There will be one more bmx practice next week as the sun is going down so soon that it isn't possible to ride that late anymore so just one more. Maybe you can talk John into a Sat or 2 but with having to activate the insurance I think that may be out as he would need about 25 or more to make it worth it. Also it is teh last beat down ride so come out and ride it with us as we are plannig to get something to eat after the ride to end another fine year of Thursday night rides. Time to get to bed as I have another day testing De-icers at the airport. Later..

Rain Ride.

Here is a picture of the Boy and Mad Dog holding a couple of star fish by the Ocean in Oregon. Jessie also had one but didn't get in the picture. We brought the star fish home and they are drying out and looking good.

Yesterday The Boy and I rode with the team Extreme racers. They ride started at the Alpha trails and the rain moved us to the Tosa trails. We got going and the rain started there also but it was light enough to let us ride for about an hour and a half. After the ride we had some good food at John's house. Thanks for the ride and the food. Tomorrow is the last time trial at CR so see you all there. I'm riding the bmx track again and I think the Boy and Mad Dog are also only riding the bmx bikes. See you there. Time to get the kids in bed. Later..

Russell's supermate of the week

Being that it is Labor day and this fine lady is all business in the front and party in the back here is to you Russell for getting paid to partyt today.

Just rolling along

Here is a picture of one of the vineyards that we were at and the flowers were just beautiful. Also the wine was good and we bought a few bottles for home.

A quick weekend update of the things that went down. Nate, Russell, Megan, Jeff, John and myself did a nice 43 plus a few ticks mile ride. The Boy held his ground great and Megan also did a great job. Thanks to Jeff, Russ and John for just doing a nice steady ride and teaching the kids the right way to ride a pace line and to also ride a revolving pace line. Maybe we need to put a clinic on for the Menace as the kids rode better then he ever does. Then it was get home and wash and wax the car, truck and my motorcycle. It is the final one before the winter unless I get a few warmer days later I will wax them once more. Today was a nice mtn bike ride with Russ, Nate, Pat, Megan, Bubba and myself along the river. The trails are in great shape but they are in need of some trimming and a few trees that are down need to be cut. Hopefully we can get to that one of these days or someone will now that it will be night riding time. Now just sitting and waiting for Jerry, Barb, Mackenzie and Russ to come over for a little cookout. May try to get to the ride at Alpha tomorrow if it isn't raining and ride with the gang and eat some brats and have a few cocktails. Later..

The Menace appears

Work has been the same old crap that I didn't miss while the fingers were healing. So nothing new there except that I have to try to catch up from missing 10 weeks. The Beat Down was a fun ride again last night. I knew the pace would be amped up as when I pulled in the lot Jack Hammers truck was there. Jack played nice for a while until we turned off Janesvile road and he took a flyer off the front and only Jeff went with him. The rest of us stayed mostly together working a revolving paceline at a steady pace. But as always Mike the Menace sitting in the back and then pulling through manages to mess it up. This old kind of fast rider can't ride a straight line or a steady pace to save his life. Well we let up hoping to shake him but he goes to the front and Dan sits his wheel to let him get nice and tired and then try to drop him, it works for now. We turned off a different way as the day light is less and he goes with the few that did a little longer loop. We are now cruising at a good pace and the Jack and Jeff come up from behind and we get the pace amped up a little higher again. About 7 miles to go Jim gets a flat and we wait and the group with the Menace rolls up, great. We ride in and in the last sub division Russell, Jeff, Todd and myself go flying up for the lead out sprint. While doing that the Menace is all up in Dan's face for about a mile plus. It didn't stop until the parking lot and that is where I got all up in his face. You all know me and I would never get in anyones face. Well I told the piece of work not to come on the ride any more and if he was wondering why he has been tossed from all the local bike shops and no ride wants him on them just to ponder that for awhile. For a guy that can ride strong but always rides like shit and can't keep his mouth shut I'm wondering why he still has his teeth. Other then having to watch out for the Menace the ride was a good one and it appears that there will only be 1 more and then the night rides will start so get the lights ready. Later..

More to come later...

Here is a picture of the big truck trying to look small next to the Red woods. The size of the trees are just unreal and if you ever get a chance to see them it is a must stop.

The Beat down was fun and some good action after the ride. More to come tomorrow as I need sleep. Later..

Track wrap up

We went to the track last night for some fixie racing. It was the last night for the year so we loaded the truck with Russ, Erich, Jamie, The Boy, Mad Dog and myself and hit it for the last night of racing. I didn't race as after the summer off with the fingers and all I don't have thge leg speed so I gave each of the kids a split of the money I saved from the entry fee. The Boy raced well but again but he looked real tired from the weekend of racing WORS as he was nipped out at the line twice. Maddie raced well and it is to bad the season is over because she is looking better on the track each week. Russell didn't race as he is pretty beat up from this weekend of crashes and E man looked good as he won the Masters snowball. Well another year of track racing is over and now Nate is looking forward to the rest of the Mtn bike races and doing the cross races again this year. Hell Maddie even asked if she could do some cross races so maybe she will become a all around racer yet. See you all at the time trial or if not at the bmx track as that should be open no matter if the trails are closed. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the Week

I think these 2 women were taking up Russell's time as he couldn't fit in both races this last weekend. Russ still was able to pull off a win on Sunday but I think if he gave up a few minutes with the women he could have won the WORS Cup again. Enjoy your ladies Russ.

WORS cup

The family had a good weekend of racing at the WORS cup. Nate and I won the Down hill TT on Saturday racing on the greasy wet trails. Then on Sunday Maddie took 3rd in her race and is getting better each race. Cece won her race and took 4th overall of the female class. Nate won his race and took 8th overall of all the cit men. I took second in SS and 11th overall in the sport class. In the end Nate took first in the omnium and I was able to also win the omnium. So everall it was a great weekend and we all had a lot of fun. Time to get the kids in bed as they start school tomorrow. Later..

Big Heads

Here is a picture of the family at Mount Rushmore on the way home during our trip out west. It was a great place to visit and if you get a chance to get there I recommend that you stop there. It was a beautiful clear day when we were there and when we were on our way to our hotel it rained about 30 minutes and about 4 inches of rain fell. We lucked out. Today with the rain I didn't go to the Beat Down I rode the spin bike instead. Easy ride tomorrow and then Dan is picking us up and off to the WORS cup. Later..

Low Down

Here is a picture of Nate finishing his race at the NORBA nationals. The race was the last ones of the day at 5pm and 105 plus degrees. He was in the lead for the first 7 miles and the last mile plus climb got to him and the others passed him. He pushed it and made up one spot and got his third place. The awards was what took so long as they waited until the last one finished and that was over an hour and a half after they finished so that was a long wait.

My brother Wade and some friends came in to town for the weekend and we crammed 10 pounds of crap into a few days. On Saturday morning we hit the BMX track for a few laps as Wade wanted to see Nate and Maddie ride it. Ezra and Emma also came to the track and got to see the kids ride. Ezra did a bunch of laps on Maddie's bike and loved it. He wished that they had a track close to their home in Woodville. After that we went to the Brewers game and got there early enough to watch batting practice. We had a table on the Fridays deck and I caught 4 baseballs and Nate caught one so every kid got to bring one home with the free lunch box that they also got that night. On Sunday we went to the Milwaukee Market and then on a boat ride on Lake Michigan. When we got home we grilled and sat around and talked and enjoyed the weather. On Monday we went on a Miller Brewery tour and they left and went home in the early afternoon. I got my chores done and got a ride in.

On Tuesday we went to the track and I warmed up but did not race as I just don't have the leg speed to waste the 20 dollars. I split the 20 and give each kid 10 instead. Nate took 2 4th places and that was pretty good as he is on antibiotics for strep thoat. Maddie took a couple of 2nd places in the girls. The story of the night was Russell pulling down some good results and looking real good on the track. He is getting some real good leg speed and racing real good. The rest of the team looked good all night as well.

Tonight was a night of riding at the bmx track. The gang was there. Ron, Russell, Dan, Bubba's kids, Skyler, Josh ( Kenny's little rocket boy) and many others. The track is looking better each week and I can't wait until they get a gate. There will be few more practice times this year and I think we are going to hit the bmx and take a break from the time trials for a while. Tomorrow is the beat down and then get ready for the WORS cup races this weekend. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the week

Russell's has his hands full with these 2 girls. They are competing to get his attention by showing off their underwear. I think Russell was so happy at seeing the undies he ripped the white ones with his teeth before she could tuck them back in. Enjoy your 2 girls Russ..

New Baby in the house

We have a new baby hanging in the basement now. I bought the frame last spring and got the fork this summer and started to put the bike together over the last few weeks. Nate wanted a carbon handle bar also so I made a deal that if he paid for half of it I would also. I got the great wheel set Tuesday from the Master wheel builders of Russell and Ron. The wheels are great and really cool. Nate took it for a spin outside today and the bike is nice and solid and really light. He should be able to rip it up at the bmx track. I may have to build a 20 inch up for myself and race age and cruiser. Tomorrow he is going to ride it at the track so that should be the real test. See you at the bmx track maybe. Have to go my brother just pulled in. Later..

Spinning along

It has been a little busy with having to do that thing called work again. After putting in a few hours of manual labor testing the gas pumps and scales I manage to get home and fit in some time for the races and riding.

Well on Monday it was a nice recovery ride and the kids also did a recovery ride during the day. Then on Tuesday it was down to the track with the kids, Russell, and Eric. I decided to race and the legs felt like lead and I should have saved the 20.00 and given each kid 10 dollars. I have decided that with my lack of time on the track that I will go to the track and warm up and then get the kids racing and give my entry fee money to them. Then the kids got racing and both of them had a good night. Nate finished a close 3rd in the unknown race and won the miss and out. He is flying and I think that racing my bike has made a big difference. With racing my bike Nate has been giving the kids a tough race as now he has btter gearing and they can't ride away from him. I think many wins are to come if he keeps riding the way he did the other night. Maddie also had a good night of racing as she took a 3rd in the unknown and a 2nd in the miss and out. In the end they didn't seperate the girls and boys out for a race and she didn't earn any money for her finishes so I gave her the money she would have gotten for her finishes. The rest of the team had great finishes and good races through out the night. After the races it was off to the Spot for some of that tasty greasy drive in food.

Last night was the time trials and it was a great night for racing. There were a few more people there for the races then normal for once. Also with the bmx track now almost ready there were a bunch of people riding there also. I had a decent race as we raced 3 laps instead of 2. At the end of the final lap I was begining to cramp going up the last 2 climbs but I was able finish it off nice and finished 2nd in age and 9th overall. Nate rode well and I think he finished 2nd in age also. Danny rode with Nate and said he was tearing up the single track. Maddie and the girls rode around and spent some time on the bmx track. Then we did a night ride and Nate was leading it and he was riding as strong in the dark as he does in the day. Tonight is the beat down and then some easy riding as my brother is coming in to town and we are doing some fun things around town. Have to get going, Later...

Russell's Supermate of the week

Russell has been a sneaky little guy and buying his lady smaller pants with out her knowing it. Here she is trying to get them buttoned and zipped before heading to the all you can eat. She is in tears as she may miss a few minutes at the buffet line trying get her ass in these pants. Here is one more plate for Russell's Supermate.

Rest Day

Here is a cool picture of the girls with a sign supporting Nate during his race. It was a cool time during the races as everyone was yelling support to every racer that came by. The only thing was that when Nate raced it was like 100 plus degrees, sunny and no where to get relief so he had it the worst of all the races that day. He did great and the next time we go to Nationals he will have everything in place and I believe he will win.

Yesterday went to the bmx track and helped for a couple of hours and it is looking real good. The first straight is smooth and turn one was getting finished as I left. The trenches were getting dug and the drain tile was to be put in so that should keep the water in the turns slim to none soon. There will be a open house on Aug 19th from 10- 1 and you will be able to ride the track so if you can come and ride it for awhile. But you will need long pants, long sleeve shirt and a helmet. After working there I got home to go for a nice 48 mile ride with Russell, Nate, Dan and John B. It was nice pace and Nate was able to keep up and only needed some pushes up some of the hills. A few more of those types of rides and he should be blowing all the Citizens away, not only being a top 15 place finisher. Russell and John stayed for some good Mexican food that Cece got ready for us and then watched the Brewers win and then the Packers sink it up.

Today was a rest day and we went to Cece's brothers house to get together with her family for a day. Nate and I went there on the Harley Fat Boy. Boy I need to ride that thing more often. I have to try to fit some riding time on the Fat Boy as the weather is getting perfect for that to. It is nice that Nate can sit on the back and hang on so that makes that nice. Now Nate and I can go for a ride as Cece doesn't really like to ride on the Harley so it is kind of boring to ride by myself. Now time to get a few things done and get ready for week 2 at work. Later..

8/11

Here are the punk kids a the side of the pool at the villa that we stayed at during the NORBA race. It was real nice and only 5 miles from the course. The kids got to swim at every hotel we stayed at and they loved it. Only 1 pool was real nasty as the water was kind of green and the whirl pool had foam about 1 foot high. Needless to say I didn't go in that pool but the kids did. One pool had a nice slide and others were your normal small but nice pools.

I did the Beat Down ride yesterday and the pace was nice for the ride out as we were going between 25 and 32 with a nice tail wind. We waited at a stop sign to regroup but that only meant that the fast guys got a rest and the pace was to pick up soon and that it did. Jeff and Matt picked it up a notch and we were cruising along at 30 mph plus for a good long time. We hung on and then decided to sit up and get a group of about 7 of us and ride at a little slower pace. We caught the guys that fell off and the others that took a short cut and had a nice group to the finish. I need a few more rides like that and I should be ready for the rest of the WORS races.

Well I have been back to work for a week now and I'm getting into the groove again. My fingers are doing fine and were only stiff yesterday from the damp rain in the morning. My leg doesn't even get sore from the damp weather and I'm hoping the fingers don't down the road too. Next week I'm hitting it full speed ahead at work and that should test the fingers then. The good thing is that I still have 5 weeks of vacation to use up before the end of the year so when some nice weather comes in the fall I'll be taking off for a ride or 2.

Time to sit down and get some sleep as I'm going to go and help at the BMX track in the morning. They are hoping to get a lot of it done or maybe finish it as there is a open house next week Sat from 10-1 so come and see the track and maybe bring your bike and ride then. Then tomorrow in the afternoon we are getting a group ride together at 1pm from my house so if you are interested call me or Russell and come on the ride. Later..

8-9-06

Here is a nice picture that we took as we drove 4 days up the coast. There was so many great areas to go down to the beach and eat lunch and play. We stopped a couple of times a day to just play and walk on the beach. We saw we think was a whale one day and got to pick up shells, sand dollars and star fish. It a lot of fun and different from any thing around here. A must if you ever get out west is to drive up the coast.

Yesterday was a night at the track and I went and warmed up and did not race. The kids did race and I gave Nate my bike to race as he is to big to ride the bike he has been racing and was way under geared. He raced better and just needs to get used to a bigger gear and I think he will do better. He took a 3rd and a 4th. Maddie raced well and I put her on Nate's old bike and she looked way better to. She took a 2nd and a 3rd. Oh yea Russell took a first in the danish and licked good in all the other races as well. I think he is racing better each week. The rest of the guys on the team were also winning and taking the money home.

Tonight was the time trials and it was hot and muggy. They went well but I was way under geared as I didn't change it from the last race. I finished 8th overall and 3rd age. Nate died on the 2nd lap and took 2nd in age. Maddie rode around with a couple of other punk girls and hit golf balls. We did a night ride also and I can't wait until we are doing night rides a couple of nights a week.

Went back to work Monday and after being off for 10 weeks I feel lost. But just have to get things in order and correct the mess the others have started and plug along. The hand is holding up and is just a little sore from lifting the gas measure cans. I just have to work through it and it will get better each day. Time to hit the sack. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the week

Now that Russell has just about locked up his category in the WORS series with another win he is going to bring this beauty to the awards banquet. I think that Russell has been giving his testosterone to his girlfriend though. Now I see why all the kids are beating you.

Bling, Bling, Bling, Ding

We got the truck packed and then got the kids up at 5:30am to get some breakfast in them and hit the rode. We were watching the radar before leaving and hoping that the rain would be done by the time we hit the race. Well it was close as we got there it was just finishing up with a light drizzle. I got our tags and nice cool shirts. I then got the bikes ready and sent Maddie out for her race. She was not wanting to race but when Don yelled go the race face went on and she took off. When rode by after the lead out she yelled to Cece I can't breath but Cece just said keep going and do your best. She finished 2nd in her class and was so happy and wouldn't stop talking on how fun it was.
Next was sending off Nate and Cece. Nate went first and got on a fast group of 18 year old racers and held his ground on the 4th and dropped all the others in his age. In the first lap he came by and looked the strongest I have seen him this year. He won his age group and I think was in the top 15 for all the citizen racers.
Then Cece took off and being the hard core not training but I will race girl that she is I was wondering how she would handle the hills, tacky mud and all. She came by after the lead out kind of in the back half of group. After the first lap she looked to be moving up and by the finish she was able to pull off a win in her age group also and place 5th overall for the women. Man if she would only train.
I took to line next and had a crappy race starting with the lead out and never getting on a group to try to sit in. I then held onto 6th place from the start to the end. I got caught in the crappy line of racers walking up the muddy hill not that would have been any different as everyone was walking. I then got on the bike and passed racers left and right but never caught any SS racers and had to settle for 6th in the end. I'm hoping to get a few better results before the the end of the year and maybe finish in the top 3 overall. But missing 3 races my put that on slim to maybe none, just have to wait and see. I watched the others race and many were looking like I felt during the race. Russell won his age, Samantha took 4th in elite women, Jack was in the top 15, Ron was about 20th, and Jerry was in there some where also. Good job to all that raced.
Tomorrow is the first day back to work since the gate tried to eat my fingers. I really don't want to go back but I still do want to get back to work at the same time. I have to unpack a bunch of boxes as our office moved while I was out so that is the first day and then get my van and things up to date. This will take a couple of days so it won't be wham back in the grind so it will be nice in that means any how. The good thing is that I used sick time for the time off so I have 5 weeks of vacation to use before the end of the year. I will use a bunch to go to school functions and others for the extended holiday times. Time to read the paper and get the feet up. Later..

8/5

Here is picture of us just before the pre ride at the NORBA Nationals. It was a sunny and hot day. It was about 105 degrees the day we pre rode. This is the day that after the pre ride that Maddie and Cece decided that the course was so bad and the temps being high that they would not waste the money and time to race. That was to bad they didn't race but it was better then having a real bad race or a DNF. As you can see the area was nothing but brown grass and open trails to ride on. It was by far the worst course ever. It makes Phillips race seem like a 10 star course. But Nate and I raced and enjoyed the race any how.

Today I went to the BMX track and helped fill a bunch of wheel barrows for about 1 1/2 hours. Then I had to get a few things ready before the race. I had to clean the bikes and get them ready and get the rest of the things in order. All 4 of us are going to race tomorrow I think for the first time this year. I'm hoping that Maddie is ready and that Cece is also. Nate should be OK and I'm just hoping for a good finish. Time to go out and start the grill and get some food going. Later..

Wine country

Here is one of the vineyards that we went to during our stay in California. We were able to visit about 6 different vineyards that were not more then a mile from our place in any direction. We did bring some wine home but let me tell you it was not cheaper then any of the bottles that you buy here. Matter of fact it cost more then any you buy on the shelf in the store around here. The only thing is the fact that you get right from the place that grows, picks and bottles the wine. Matter of fact I think I may open a bottle tonight to go with the pizza I just picked up.

Today is Maddie's 11th birthday. Cece took her and a couple of friends to the cool waters swim park. I got lucky as Nate didn't want to go so we went to the BMX track and rode some laps. The track is looking real good and it should be ready in a few weeks for some good practice runs. If you get a chance come and check it out. Also thanks to Cooper for the cutting of a brake rotor that had a bad rust spot from sitting for 3 weeks. Now they are smooth as butter. I owe him a dinner soon. Time to get some pizza and have some cake with Maddie. Later..

8/3

We went to the time trials and paid to race and then the rain came. We waited for a few minutes to see if it would let up but it only came down harder and the water was running down the ski hill making it impossible to race. We waited inside for the rain to let up and then loaded the bikes and went home. Once I got home I got on the SS and tooled around the Bay View area and lake front. It was cool as I seen 2 red fox by the lake and then seen a bunch of raccoons playing in the water. On my way home I ran into fast guy Mike Phillips and talked to him for awhile before heading home.

This morning the family and I headed to State Fair to see the sights. It was a lot of fun to walk through the animal farms and see the sights at the fir. We then went to the ride area and all the rides all cost a $1.00 to ride and we bought $20.00 dollars worth. Well after a few Maddie was done as she wasn't feeling the best after a few of the spinning rides. Plus the heat I think was getting to all of us. So I rode a few with Nate and then we headed home as we are all sun burnt as hell. We all had fun as it is way better then summerfest and all as there is a lot for the kids and families to do.

Went on the beat down ride tonight and I was wondering if being in the sun all day and not riding that much in the last month would hurt me. But the pace was good and steady and the ride did stay together for the most part as only a few fell off the pace. I'm hoping that I feel good for the race on Sunday and that the rain holds out for the early races. Tonight Dan, Len, John, Bob and a few off the trackies went to a big race at Northbrook. Last year Matt Fox won the race so we are hoping that another Hayes rider can repeat. Time to get something to eat. Later..

Back in the saddle

Here is a picture of me racing at the NORBA Nationals. I raced at 8 in the morning and it was already in the high 80's and the saving thing was the sun was not out in full as the fog from the bay was still there. Well in the start of the 2nd lap the sun came out and the temps went up for the last 2 laps. I got hand ups every lap from Nate and I needed all the fluids I took from him. I drank 4 bottles during the race and took water at the water station each time also. I was a good race fro me as I finished 29th in the SS open and the top finishers were all pro's.

I went to the track last night with The Boy, Maddie and Russell. I was thinking on the way down maybe I should just warm up and save the $20.00 and give each kid $10.00 extra. But as I warmed up and raced. I could tell I haven't raced at the track yet this year as the night went on my legs went away. The first couple of races I held my ground and then the last race I just didn't have it. I will keep pushing and hope to be able to hold my ground for the rest of the the WORS races. The kids did well as Nate took 2 3rd places and Maddie took 2 2nd places. Russell just finished in the field in his races.

Today I went to the hand Dr. and he said that my summer vacation is over. I have good movement in the fingers and he said that he can't believe that with the damage I had done to the fingers that I should have limitited movement. But with the way that mine move he could not believe it and was just sitting there going move your fingers again I have to see that again. He said I heal great and that he wants to see me in 2 months as he wants to see how much more progress I will have. So it is back to work Monday and then try to plan when to take my 5 weeks of vacation that I have to use before the end of the year.

Tonight are the time trials at Crystal Ridge if the rain holds off. There is 2 races tonight so Nate and I will do both but Maddie will just be riding tonight. The second race will be a night race so the lights are charged and ready to go. Tomorrow is off to to the State Fair with the family. I hope that it is not to hot and alot of the people don't go early as we are going at about 8 am. Well time to go and lift weights and get some things done. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the week

With the weather being Hot and Sticky Russell took this fine lady to the deck and gave her a ncie cold beverage with a straw to cool her down. She sure is a fine looking lady in her bikini and all. I hope he keeps her cool as the sweating could be a real big problem.

Hot Enough?

Here is a picture of Nate at NORBA Nationals coming up the start hill. The hill goes up for about a mile and is a good grade that zaps the legs and lungs for a while. Nate sat on the wheel and the kid popped about 20 yards from this area. Nate was then in the lead for the next 6 miles and then Hillzilla and the heat got him and 2 kids passed him and he couldn't respond and ended up 3rd. It was a great race and finish and we are very proud of Nate and his racing. He is now out on a ride pulling Cece and Maddie around down by the lake front. His goal is to win his age group this year and be the NORBA state champ also. If he keeps his training and focus I think he can do both.

This morning I picked up Fast Girl and Russell and we headed to the Kettles to meet Dan and his Brother Jeff and his kid Luke. After getting my paperwork all done and paying my few as it was the first ride there since I busted my fingers so none of that was done yet this year. We got going about 9 and it was hot already and I was sweating like randy by the first mile. We did the connector and back and it was nice to ride the new re routes that all the guys have been working so hard at. Great job to those who have had a hand in those. By the time we got done I drank 5 bottles and my shoes and socks were soaked with sweat. I think I lost 10 lbs of sweat today. Sammy was looking real good today and her bike handling skills are getting better each ride. Not bad for a fast 14 year old girl that races with the pro women on the road and Mtn bike. Russell, Dan and myself rode our SS bikes and by the time I was done the hand and fingers were sore and had enough.

Still up int air about the ride tomorrow but all I know is that I want to ride early to try to beat the heat. going to have to hit a few 2 a day rides to get the body back to race shape after the trip out west. Also have to race on Tuesday at the track and Wed at the time trials as there are 2 races that night. Also have to hit the beat down so that should whip the body back into shape. Well time to eat some chips and have a beer and plan on getting some dinner ready. Later..

Home

We made it home about 11pm last night after a 13 hour drive from Rapid City, South Dakota. It was a great time with the family and we all had a blast the entire time together. Now it is time to start training again for the last part of the season. We didn't have time to ride that much as the driving and the time to meet with family and all took a lot of the time up during the day. But that is what a vacation is for every now and then so the riding had to take a back seat for awhile. I got to ride a couple of times so that was ok. I was able to get a lot of the things done today and now I'm able to go and ride at the Kettle's tomorrow with Fast girl, Russell, and Dan.

Today is Cece's Birthday and next week Friday is Maddie's Birthday. All Cece wants is a new pair of riding gloves and a new pair of riding shoes. So next week we are going to go to Ben's together and get her new gloves and shoes. I'll let Cece get Maddies gift. Boy the years are flying by as Nate is 12, Maddie is going to be 11 and Jessie is turning 5 this year.

It is cool that the 24 hour race is for the National championship this year I hope that all the fellow WORS racers have good luck and have a safe and successful race. I would have raced it if we weren't going on the vacation to the NORBA Nationals. I always had a blast racing with Jerry, Jack Hammer and Fast guy Joe. Maybe next year we can get another team for the race it time allows. We may try to go to NORBA Nationals again next year if they are not in California. I hope that they move them as the places that they have chosen suck. So maybe next year I will race it either with a team or race it with Nate. Well any how good luck to all those who are racing the 24 race. Later..

Seattle

We've had a lot of fun in Seattle with Cece's brother's family. Yesterday we went to Pike's market and seen the fish tossing and all the other really cool vendors there. The fish tossing was cool and looked better then when the raw stuff comes back up on you. The place was packed at9am in the morning and was getting busier by the minute. We then went to a festival down at the center by the space needle and it was bigger then any thing Milwaukee has to offer and way better then Summerfest. Boy it made Milwaukee look like shit, but what is new. Today we went on a boat ride around lake Wahington and seen the big houses and even Bill Gate's mansion. We then went to a car show in Downtown Kirkland and seen a bunch of cars that would make Kyle happy. After having enough of the heat we went to a restaurant and ate COOKED crabs that were the best so far on the trip. We are heading out tomorrow and making a few stops on the way home and should be home by the weekend. Time to go swimming. Later..

In the mountains

Today after a nice ride in the morning with The Boy and Cece we headed to the mountains with Cece's Brother's family. We went to a really cool stream with a natural rock slide. After a 30 minute walk in 100 degrees to the place we were able to put our feet in ice cold water from the mountains. It was a really nice day and the kids had a blast. Tomorrow we are going to go to Pike market and watch the guys toss fish to each other and get some fresh seafood to cook later that night. We are going to try to get a ride in before we leave but if not oh well. Time to go and socialize. Later..

Long over do

Well we have stayed at a few places that have not had a computer. Nate took 3rd at the Natioanlas on the worst course ever. He racedwell and got passed on the longest tough climb. He raced in the heat of over100 degrees and did great. He was in the lead for awhile but the heat and hill took a bit out of him and he got passedand tried to hang but couldn't. I took 29th in the single speed open against the pros and all. I felt good during the race and pinned it out for the race. Each lap got faster and I'mgladI did the SS race. My time in the single speed race would have put in the top 10 in age so maybe next time I'll race age on the SS. It was great to see a bunch of other racers from the WORS series and they all faired well. We drove up the coast and we are now in Kirkwood Washington just outside of Seattle. See you all in a week. Later..

Pre-Ride

We got to the course for the pre-ride and they moved the time to 1pm. No problem as we got our registration done and got ready. Looking at the way the course was I changed the gear to a 32x18 on the bike and waited to do a lap and see how it was. I rode a lap with Nate and the gear felt fine. It is by far the worst course I have ever been on. It is all in the open and the trail is cut in the side of the hills and you ride on that and some roads for 7.8 miles. I have to do 3 laps in my single speed open race. I just hope to finish and do well if it going to be in the 90's like today. Nate looked good but I hope he holds it together on the climbs as they are long and some are just brutal. He was breathing hard and looking tired but he always pulls it together during the race.

I rode a lap with Cece and Maddie and they both had a hard time on the climbs and the decents. Maddie rode about 3/4 of the lap and she couldn't ride anymore. A pick up truck was coming past and asked if she needed a ride back to the parking lot. I said please do and they gave her a ride back. She was having the Russell's as there were goose bumps all over her arms and legs and she was about to throw up. Cece was also having issues and she made it to the finish of the lap but also decided after not racing for 3 months she was not going to race. So it will be Nate and I racing only but I would rather have that and not have Cece and Maddie get hurt on some of the crappy course we have to race. Now it is time to go in the pool for a while and relax. Later..

California

We made it here today and the drive wasn't that bad. The kids were real good for the drive here. We drove to North Platte Nebraska the first in 12 hours. Then the next day was a 13 hour drive to Elko Nevada that was ok as we got 2 hours in our favor. Then today we made it to Sonoma at about 3pm after a nice 7 hour drive. Got a nice ride in today and went and got something to eat. Tomorrow we are going to go to the race course and get the registartion done and then ride the the course. Will get back after the ride. Later..

Ronsta's Beat Down

Jerry and I headed to the Lake County area to do Ron's ride this morning. Jerry arrived about 7am to drop off Mackenzie to play with my punks and get me then off we were. After a slight miss direction and a call to Ron we got there. At least w weren't the last one to arrive. We headed out with a nice group of about 15 which included Goat, Lori, Kevin, T-Bone, John L., Ron, Jerry, Russell. The first half of the ride the group kept the pace at about 17 mph until the others broke off to get to work or other appointments. Then the Goat and John L. picked up the pace and the ride got a little more interesting. I was glad that Ron, Jerry, Russell did the SS state race yesterday as they weren't up to hammering the entire time. The hills at the end started to catch up and I was out running out of gas. Thanks to Jerry for a few pushes and to Russell for waiting a few times for me. We had to skip the meal after the ride so I could get home and pack up the trailer and get the rest ready for our trip. Thanks Jerry for the help getting all the stuff into the trailer. Then it was off to the church festival and help take the kids games down in the rain and get something to eat. Now it is time to get the final touches down for the trip and get ready for the trip. good luck to the others racing the WORS and other races see you later..

Pictures from the Fire Cracker

Here are a few pictures from the race this weekend. Going to do the ride from Ron's tomorrow and looking at about 80 miles. The ride starts at 8am if you want in. Then get home and finish getting ready to head to the NORBA Nationals. Time to get some stuff done and get a short ride in and get Grandma to take her out for dinner. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the week

Russell here is the real reason that you wanted to go to the hospital. The nurses up at the hospital in Eau Claire have not changed for over 50 years and a guy your age needed ones that couldn't run from you. Here is a picture of the one's that took care of you as we know your eyes were crossed from the heat.

Back in Beer Town

We came home late last night to get back fo a Doctor appt today. The fingers are healing well but there is still a fracture in both fingers that need to heal before the Doctor will let me go to work. Oh well that means that I will have to wait until my next appt that he made for the 1st week of August. That means that I will be off from work until then, the good thing is that I have 6 months of sick time saved up and I will be using that. Not a great picture but it shows the screws and other junk in the hand.

We had a good time by my brother as on Monday we went to Crystal Cave with the kids and then they swam all night in the pool. Then on Tuesday we went to the snowmobile skips in Knapp. It was fun as about 20 of the rednecks dropped their machines into the lake. We then came home and watched a movie on the outdoor movie screen. It was a fun time and we can't wait until next year again. Time to get some stuff done and yell at a few kids as they are gettting on each others nerves and mine. Later..

Firecracker

We went and pre-rode the course yesterday and it was a hot one. The course was laid out great and I felt good and thought just ride your pace and fly in the single track and enjoy the race. Cece rode for the first time since she hurt her elbow and said she liked the course and was ready to race again. Nate did a lap and looked good. He did a lap with Jerry on his tandem and Jerry said that he was awesome on the back. I see those 2 doing a few races down the rode. Went back to my brothers and got in the pool for a while and then ate some grilled chicken. At 10 the fireworks went off and they were great as they always are. We watched them and then hit the bed as 6 would come fast.

Today got up and headed to the race and got Maddie lined up for her VP points working the water station with Emma and Andrea. They had a fun time tossing water in everyones face. Nate went off and got in to the first turn in 2nd place and then got a good wheel and just rode it to a first place finish. He took 14th overall in citizen which is pretty good for a 11 year old kid. Cece also had a good day and took 3rd in class and also 14th in the citizen ladies class. I of course didn't get a call up and had to try to pick which wheel was a good to line up behind. I picked and the dork had a nice bike and then I looked down and he had no clips or anything. Shit I picked the wrong wheel I thought. I was right as the guy ran into the rider next to him at the start but I was able to laugh in his face and get by and get on a faster wheel. I was happy to see only 3 single speed riders ahead of me and I passed Rob who for a reason unknown to me was leading us out. Thanks Rob. I got into 2nd place after about 1 mile into the race and then the chase was on to try to catch the Alan Bike cross team pro racer sand bagging in the sport SS. Oh well I was in his sight for most of the race and then I figured I wasn't going to catch him and shut it down and rode in for a 2nd place finish and I think maybe a top 10 overall. In all it was a good race and glad that I raced and then got a good result. The hand held up and felt ok during the race and only had to hold it up on the flats when possible to get the blood back in it. I didn't get to see everyone finish so I hope everyone had a good race and I will see you later..

I'll have another one.....

We are sitting at my brothers relaxing after a nice ride in the morning and swimming in the pool across the street all afternoon. Boy not working for the last 5 weeks has been nice and I'm getting used to not having to answer to the man. But I do really miss going to work believe it or not. Looks like Maddie may have to miss the race as she cut her foot pretty bad and may have needed stiches but nurse Joy put a few butterflies on it and they seem to be doing the job. May have her just race and get the toss away points and that is it. I felt ok today on the bike and I'm looking forward to racing. I did pull Jessica on the trail a bike for 20 miles on a gravel path and it felt fine also did a few hard efforts to get the leg's moving and the heart rate up. Going to go and preride tomorrow and check out the course and come back to my brothers as the neighbor fires off about $3,000.00 worth of fireworks. The fireworks are way better then any show around even maybe better then the Big Bang as they are right over your head. Well time to go and have a few cocktails.

About time

This is going to be the scene for the first time this weekend. All 4 of us are going to be able to race for the first time this year. I'm going to give it a try and Cece is finally ready to race. See you at the race as we are heading up there today and stay by my brothers and then go to the pre ride and then race on Sunday. Later..

6.28.06

I went to the Doctor again yesterday and he said that the hand is healing real nice. But he did move it in a few ways that I don't and the pain was really cool. But it is something that I don't do for the cool factor as I'm afraid that I would hinder the bones in the healing process. He said that the bones are not fully healed yet and that I can start to try to move them more to get more mobility but not to grip hard yet as I could do damage to the bones. I have to still do movements to try to loosen up the joints and to try to break the scar tissue down from him reconnecting the tendons. So much damage to such a little area but moving in the right direction. Still not able to go back to work and just going to have to suffer being home with the kids and healing.

We went to the track last night and it was a good night of racing. Nate was able to get 2 2nd places in his races. I have to try to get a bigger gear for him but it doesn't really because we are going to miss the next 4 weeks and there are only 2 or 3 more the week after. Maddie had a good night as she got 2 3rd places and that is not to bad as she just got home from up north. Travis came and watched and now wants to try it so I'm going to have to ask the Goat for the spare track bike back and get it to Travis so he can try track racing. Then russell was on last night in the sprint heats. He rode smart and made through the first round to the main and got a 2nd place. He then Raced the Madison with Jack Hammer and never got tossed in the race and they managed to finish 5th and get paid for that also. Jerry also had a bunch of good races again as he finished 2nd in the sprints and a 3rd in the team race with Danny. Spring Bob had a good night with a win in the team race and a second in the snowball and a 4th in the sprints. Come down on Tuesdays for some good racing. We will miss the next 4 as we are going upnorth tomorrow and then to California and won't be back until late July or the first week of Aug.

Russell's Supermate's of the week

With the weather nice and the Summer in full swing Russell is taking his ladies to the beach more often. Here is a fine picture from the last visit to beach when the temps were soaring in the high 80's and 90's. Hope you have time to ride when you are done giving the ladies the loving that they need.

New Crap going on

Friday was a day of having Lunch with Russell, Ronsta and the Boy. We ate a all you can eat Mexican buffet. A meal that would cry if Randy walked in but we did so some damage to the food that they laid out. I ate to much and suffered as I went to the Crystal Ridge 12 hour course to trim the branches that were hanging in the trail. I then made it up the top and helped Al and Coop finish marking the trail for the race.

Sat got up early and helped at the Metro 12 hour race. I sat on the hill and yelled at dump truck drivers to slow or stop to allow the racers to come through. I had to yell at a idiot to slow or stop and he looked at me and said my tires are bigger then yours and I'm not. The nice guy that I am I got in his face and he slowed and stopped every time. Another idiot drove up and wanted to get into it with a truck driver because he flipped him off. I nicely told told the guy to leave or he would have had a bigger issue if stayed. He left also to avoid the bigger problem about to happen. After the trucks stopped I had time to get Nate ready for his 6 hour duo with Travis. Last year they won the race but this year there was more teams and faster guys also. They put up a good race and finished 3rd over all in the 6 hour duo. Ronsta and Tbone won the race and another duo beat Nate and Travis by 5 miutes. Not bad for a 11 and 12 year old kids. For Nate's good finish Russell and I took him to Hooters for some wings.

Today John picked me up and we drove to Sammi's house for a group ride. The group was a good size group and a good pace for 50 plus miles. The pace was even and comfortable for the entire ride. We were going to ride to East Troy and back. On the way out we ran into some rain and then changed directions and kept out running it. We were able to avoid the rain for most of the ride and never got caught in a down pour. After the ride Dave and Connie cooked up some brats and good eats for us. We ate and had a few beers and now it is time to start my grill and eat more.

Just registered all of us for the race this coming weekend in Eau Claire. Yes I'm going to race and just finish to get a few points. I'm not going to take any chances but hope to have a good finish and get a few more points. We are going to head up on Thursday and stay by my brother's house for the week and come back home for a few days before we head to California for the NORBA nationals. So that is the new crap going on. Later..

Made it

Well I made it to the end of the ride. Thanks to Jeff who had my back. The speed was ok but the hills is where I lost a wheel a time or two. But Jeff made sure I got back on. Thank you Jeff. I'm going to go have lunch with the Tool and the Ronsta tomorrow and I may even take the Boy. Then may go and finish marking the trail for the 12 hour race on Sat. Still have to wait and see if Al calls and said he didn't finish. Time for bed. Later..

Group ride

Going to go and do the group ride tonight. I hope that I can keep up for most of the ride and not get dropped to early in the ride. I hope that the rain holds out so we can ride. Update the adventure later.

1st day of summer

Well for the first day of summer it sure came in with a bang. The wind and rain this morning was cool. I got up early as Len was dropping a Fork off so I could buy it and put it on The Boy's mtn bike. The one he had on the bike was not working that good any more and the brake mounts were stripped out. Russell had made them work by putting some lock tight and plumbers tape on the bolts and that held up for now. But going to NORBA nationals in a couple of weeks we needed some thing more reliable and I bought the fork. It is a Rock Shock Duke with lock out on it also. The Boy should like that and I left the steer tube longer so I can put it on the next bike he gets. He and Cece are out for a ride right now testing it out. Also it should get the true test this weekend as Nate and Travis are doing the 6 hour duo.

The fingers feel pretty good but they are a little stiff today. I don't know if the weather has anything to do with it but the feel sore and stiff today. Oh well maybe they will feel better later or tomorrow. The Boy and I hit the track last night and he had a good night as he took a 3rd and a 4th. I rode around for an hour and then took my place in the infield helping by telling at the racers to where they were in the races. They all looked good as Jerry got a 4th in the main and the B Dog had a few high places again. Len had a few nice high places again. Aaron also was blowing the others away in the sprints. Everyone on the team looked good again this week. So if you have time you need to come down and see some good racing at the track on Tuesday nights.

Tomorrow I'm hitting the shop again as I'm going to put a cruiser together for Jerry as the bmx track should be ready in a few weeks and now he can come and hit it up with us. So if you don't have a bmx bike yet it's time to get one and come and join the rest of us and hit the track. It should be ready in about 2 to 3 weeks. They may also have a few rider info nights and then some gate practices. They may even try to get a few races in this year also. Just have to wait and see. Time to get something to eat. Later..

4 weeks

It has been 4 weeks since the gate tried eating my fingers. The stiches have been removed and now the cuts have healed shut and the dried skin is pealing off. I have been trying to move the fingers per Doctors orders and it has been a slow and minor painful process. The fingers are pretty stiff and the pinky has very little flexiability but I'm hoping that it will get some to most of it's movement back. I'm hoping that I will be able to ride the bike and race in a few weeks.

Enough of the fingers as I did a road ride with Russell, Bubba, Coop and Ann last night. It was a great feeling to be out on the road again. I'm going to ride at the track again tonight and do a few laps before the CR Time Trial tomorrow if it's not rained out. If it is rained out The Boy and I will do a nice long road ride instead. I think that I may even try to do the Thursday road ride this week. Just have to see how things fall into place later in the week.

The 12 hour race at Crystal Ridge. I'm going to go and mark the trails this Friday and work there on Saturday. I'm going to take a few hours off in the afternoon and ride a few laps and then help for the end of the race. So if you are not planning on racing get a ride in early and come and help. Even if you are racing coming and give a few hours of work before or after the race. See you there.

I stopped by to see how the BMX track was looking and it is cool to see all the bumps and jumps laid out. Now the real work will be starting and the track should look real cool in a few weeks. I think some drainage in the corners are a must as they were holding a ton of water and now is the time to put that in or there will be a ton of issues down the road. But hey I hope that they know they are doing and get it done right the first time that they do all this work once and save alot of time and money the first time through. Later..

Russell's Supermate of the week.

Being the fact that Russell is getting down to about 200 lbs his veins will be sticking out like this Supermate of the week. It won't be long until he is as ripped as she is. Good race this weekend.

WOW what a weekend.

We just got back from the Midwest Nationals in Rockford. It was a great 4 days and we will be spending it there the same time next year. To get the party started Nate, Skylar and myself went there Thursday for a single point race to get the 2 racers ready for racing the next 3 days went it really counted. The best thing about going to the Nationals was pulling up to the races and seeing a bunch of people you know. We were invited to stay and partake in the camp of Brian Dickerson and family, Fred Yanke, Todd Zimmerman and his daughter, Bill Dickerson, Curt Zizzo, RB, Mike Froh and a couple of others, This made the weekend very fun and comfortable. They all helped us prepare for the racers and let us leave our bikes there over night and feed us also. Nate took a 3rd place and skylar took a 2nd each in class on Thursday night. After the races we drove back to Milwaukee and got ready for the next 3 days.

We left for the races at 9am on Friday to pick Skylar and Shaun and got back to Rockford for some double point racing. We got there and got the bikes out of Freds trailer and the kids got to their gate practices. I stood in line for almost 2 hours to get the registration done for Skylar and Nate. Nate raced class and cruiser on Friday to get an extra race in to get used to the track and see a few of the other racers he would face. Nate only raced cruiser on Friday and wanted to stay somewhat fresh for class with heat and all. He took a 4th in cruiser and then a 3rd in class on Friday. Skylar took a 3rd in class on Friday. Both where looking good but we could tell that of racers were racing as neither really have been on the BMX bike since march. We loaded our car and got to the hotel and cleaned up as we needed to be back as Nate had gates at 6:50 in the morning.

Well we got to the gate practice and the racing started at 11am and went on for the next 9 hours or so. Skylar had the first race and settle for the having to go to the second moto as her races had 3 nationally ranked girls in it. She made it to the mains in the 2nd moto. In the mains she had a slow gate start but did well and held on for a 3rd place finish. Nate made it to the semi's in his first moto and had to sit until like 3pm then. He made in to the main no problem in his group. In the main he was holding 2nd but he got passed in turn 3 and had to settle for a 3rd place finish. For his first National at Rockford he looked great. After the race we all cooked out and sat around at the camp and talked and all the kids were having fun. We headed out to the hotel again and got ready to be back for the 2nd day of racing.

Well to say that the day was going to a real fun one was to say the least when I got up and it was raining. Guess what? They race in the rain at Nationals. We got ready and watched a few of the first races and there was a lot of crashes in the turns. Skylar and Nate both moved on after the first moto's. Nate then moved past the semi's to the main again.In the main Skylar had her best gate and was in the lead and went into turn 2 and washed out and ended up finishing 5th. She looking great in each of her races and got better each day. Nate blasted out of the gate and was in the lead also and was coming out of turn 3 and the guy that was on his tail got even with him and it was a drag race to the finish and Nate got nipped at the line and he got a 2nd place finish. He looked great in each race and I'm super proud of him.

Also the others had great finishes: Brian Dickerson won both of his age cruisers, Bill Dickerson took 2 2nd places in his age in cruiser, Curt Zizzo won both of his age cruisers, Tim Ering won both on his age cruisers, Fred made a few mains and others had good results also. Again the weekend would not have been as fun and comfortable with out the kindness of the others we were with. Thanks again to all.

I hope everyone had a good race in Kewaunee and see at the track or at the rides soon. I need sleep Later..

Getting to the Rock

We rode the CR time trials last night. As we got there I got the kids ready and then took a lap for the first time with the fingers splinted up. It was tricky as I didn't have the full use of the rear brake and the abilaty to hang on real well witht the right hand. I also didn't support the fingers as well as I could have and that limited me. I figured a way to support the fingers better so more riding to come after the weekend at Rockford Nationals. I put the front wheel on Nates bike and told him like 3 times to check it do you think he would? Hell no and it vibrates loose and he has to stop and gets passed by Travis and ends up 2nd. What a bummer. Maddie had a blast and rode a couple of laps and enjoyed riding her bike.

Aslo at the track we got a chance to look at the BMX track that is being built and it is looking sweet. The Track should be ready for the final smoothing out in the next 2 weeks and then it may be open for some riding shortly after that. Get your bikes now and give it a try. But as the ones that arre making the track say right now stay off untill they say it is ready as you could cause problems and make it longer for the rest.

Today Nate, Skyler and myself are going to the bmx track in Rockford for some National tune up racing. We are going to spend the next 4 days racing there and hoping for some good results. I'm hoping that the rain and all holds up and we are able to race the entire weekend and that Nate will ci=ome home with some great results.

The girls are going to go upnorth with my parents and spend 10 days there so that should be a nice break and no fighting at home. The only thing is that there is a bear running around the cabin so they will have to have my parents around at all times. Also sending Maddies bike up there with them also. Maddie is looking forward to riding it with my parents so that is good thing, so I hope she rides it often and hard. Next week is the 12 hour at Crystal Ridge and Nate and Travis are thinking about doing the 6 hour dou again so that should be fun to watch. Also I will work there and help out so come and ride and work PLEASE.

Time to get the bikes and stuff packed and get Skyler and head to the Rock. Later..

Info over load.

Well the Doctor told me that I can ride the bike and to start on moving the fingers. The fingers are stiff and messed up so that is going to take a while. Also I have to be careful not to try to squeze them as I could break them again or break the plates. So I have to be gentle for now. I also got the track bike out and rode warm up and the track and then got in a few pace lines and boy that felt great to be back outside.

The punks did well again as Nate took a 4th and 2nd. Maddie took 2 2nd places. The rest of the team took a bunch of wins and second places also. Cudos to B-Dog as he took a win in his first race at the track also.

The bmx track have started in Fanklin so that is great news and I can't wait to see it. Nate, Skyler and maybe Sam J and I are going to the bmx track in Rockford to get a few laps in before the Nationals race there this weekend. So I'm running more now then when I'm at work. Boy I can't wait to get back to work. Yea right.

Russell's Supermate of the week

Here is a new mate for Russell. Hope that he still has some energy left after the team 12 hour race and doing trail work.

2 Old men and 2 Kids

The team of Russell, Bubba, Megan, and Nate took a 5th at the 12 hour race. They raced the 12 hour open and all of them did it on single speeds. Good job guys. Nate also did his laps in a hour or less on the single speed. Good job to all the other racers also.

With Nate getting home later then expected we didn't head to Rockford for some bmx racing. I hope that it doesn't rain on Wed so we can get some practice gates in before the Nationals. Nate just needs to push it in the turns and make sure that no one comes under his line and he should do fine. We will be heading there on Friday and racing Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Got a bigger gear on the 20 inch and hope that will help also as he was spun out the last race we did there. Just hope that he makes all the mains and we will go from there.

Time to wash the car and truck and get the trail a bike hooked up to the single speed as Cece wants to get Jessica to try to ride it with her. I'm not going to try it but maybe I will ride the mtn bike behind her. I will get on the spin bike later and get another ride in also. I'm hoping to come back in as good or better shape then I was before I hurt myself. Only time will tell. Later..

This sucks

Man with screwing the fingers up at this time of the season it really sucks. The 12 hour race was today and the Boy is there racing but I haven't heard yet how that is going. I could have also done the Fat Tire tour also. I couldn't do either one. I also hat missing the other races and rides that are going on each day also. But what the hell I do get the next 8 to 9 weeks off and hope that in the next 2 to 3 weeks that I get to start riding the group rides again. I'm hoping to maybe have the ok to maybe race the WORS race in Eau Claire but if not maybe after we get back from NORBA nationals. It just sucks sitting and riding the spin bike but I figure that riding that is better then nothing. Oh well time to watch more TV. Later..

1st day of kids

Now that the kids are out of school it is full time at home with them. Not bad today as Nate went to a classmates house to play PS2 games so that left just the girls with me. It was a nice day at home with not to much fighting. We went to the bike shop a got a new free wheel on Nates 20 inch bmx bike as we may try to get to Rockford on Sunday. Next week is the Midwest Nationals at Rockford so no WORS race next Sunday. Nate is going to do the 12 hour race this weekend with Russ, Bubba, and Megan on their single speeds. He is just finishing getting his food and bottles ready and going over making sure that he has his riding clothes ready.

I think I did a little to much yesterday by folding the laundry as the fingers were sore and swollen this morning. Will have to have Cece do that job for a couple of week so I don't mess up the fingers. I got a good spin ride in today and the legs are feeling pretty good. I wish I could race and ride outside, but that will be coming soon as I hope the Doctor gives the ok Tuesday. Tomorrow is the Fat Tire ride and I thought about doing it but again I don't want to mess up the hand. Time to go over Nate's packing and make sure he has every thing. Later..

6/7/06

Got the stiches removed yesterday and the Doctor said that the hand is looking real good. But not to move the fingers to much as the bones are healing and I could f%$& it up again. No problem as I will take it easy and come back 100 percent not take a few steps back as I don't need to do any more damage again. The Doc said 3 to 4 Weeks and rehab will start so taking it easy yet and spinning only.

Wed night time trials at CR and the punks raced. Nate did it on his SS speed and was whooped at at he end but loved the bike. He is doing the 12 hour in a 4 man with Russell, Bubba, Magatron and they are doing it all on SS. Maddie rode the full lap tonight for the first time and did a great job.

Last night was a night on the track and the punks each took 2 second places. They both rode smart and did great. Well I' tired and going to bed. Later..

Russell's supermate of the week

Even though Russell took a 2nd place we won't kick him off the team. He made good by driving my ass all over. Here is a nice South Amercan lady.

Hand

Feeling better after the fingers get a little air and light. Hope that they start moving and get the flexibility back some.

Race recap and graduation

Well on Sunday got the kids up and were heading to eat breakfast and Maddie is tossing her dinner from the night before. I couldn't get her to eat or drink any thing and she looked a little pale. The trooper that she is she raced and was struggling bit did manage to pull off a 2nd place. I was working the lap/finish area and she came out of the single track and laid the bike down right there, she laid there for a while and got up and finished 1/2 a second in front of 3rd. Nate took off next and finished 4th in the race. He was in 2nd when he came by the first time but the others must have passed him some where out there and he finished 4th. He was disappointed but the other kids are all 14 so he got over it quick. I volunteered and got to see every one race so it was cool. Good job to everyone that were able to make it there and I think everyone got great results this week.

Jessica had a graduation from K 4 today and it was a cool little ceremony. Nothing like 20 4 year olds yelling and running all over the place. The kids only have 2 more days of school and then mass on Thursday and then they are off for the summer. Going to get some extra training in with them as we are going to go to the NORBA nationals for sure now. Time to go and get the kids. Later..

Wausau

Made it to the 9 Mile Forest in 1 piece with Russell driving and with no speeding tickets. Got the punks out for a preride and I walked around talking to others. It is hard not racing and just watching as the others that are getting ready, but only for a few weeks and then it should hopefully be back to racing. I rode the punks bikes around and the hand and fingers didn't hurt that bad but I couldn't race no way. The punks should be ready and hoping that they both do well and get on the podium. The punks and Russell are in the pool so I hope that Russell behaves and doesn't mess with them, yea right like will ever happen. I think the kids behave better then he does at times. Later..

Getting ready

Getting ready to leave in tomorrow for thw WORS race. Getting the Punks bikes, clothes, swim suits, and snacks. Going to pack the truck and pick up Russell then head north. It should be fun.

Today I got the oil changed and like every time you pull the car in the garage they say you need this and that done. Well they said you need rear brake pads and rotors, front pads and that will be only 400.00 bucks. Yea right. I called Copper and like always he hooked me up. Pads and rotors for front and back. Did it with my Dad and saved a bunch of money. I owe him dinner for the deal. The car should be set for a while.

The hand is feeling better and the swelling is done and the hand is feeling a lot better. See you on Sat and Sunday at the race. Later..

Show me the money

I went to the office to get my check. After a few phone calls to others it was not to be found. I went to the lady really in charge and the one I told my boss to call in the first place to find my check. She said oh I put it in the mail and it should get here in a few days, no problem as we don't live check to check anyways. The kicker is that I talked to my boss on Tuesday and told him I was stopping in to turn in end of the month reports and my old cell phone to get the new one so I could program all the numbers back in. I still have the same phone number for work so no changes there. But it was still a nice visit to the office as got to thank everyone for the card and calls to see how I was doing and also to rub in how I'm off for the summer now.

Got the Vicadin refilled so 40 more happy pills to eat over the next few weeks. Good thing for great insurance as the refill only cost .76 cents and I also got a $10.00 gift card. Boy this is a great country. Missing the group ride again tonight so I hope everyone is having a safe and fast ride. I will be there in a few weeks and I hope that I don't get dropped right away. I sat on the spin bike again for a hill climbing video with the punks. I took off the splint and held the arm up and it felt a lot better today. Hope to be riding full time next week and getting into better shape then I was before I got hurt. My parents are in for some doctors appointments and meetings so I hope to get a project or 2 done while they are here. Nothing else new except see you all this weekend. Later..