tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28341437262913902542012-01-10T07:29:07.037-08:00"'Until you learn to realize the importance of the Banana King you will know absolutely nothing about the human interest things of the world.'" Jack Kerouac – On the RoadThe me you seenoreply@blogger.comBlogger831100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-26690293670189158652010-09-29T17:36:00.000-07:002010-09-29T17:40:22.596-07:00

I'd taken the time to post something on facebook about today being exactly one year to the day since the impetus for the blog started.  Riding into work this morning (on what was possible the best morning ever) I scrolled through the mental files of all that had happened; faces seen, conversations, places I'd slept, etc, etc, etc.  By the time I got to Starbucks, the thought came to me to check

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-89041219153172493632010-07-09T14:42:00.000-07:002010-07-09T14:45:11.548-07:00

The one side of the phone conversation I heard went something like this: "Yeah-up, yeah-up, I got a guy here... he's on a bike..." "Yeah-up.., naw, naw... said he's rye'in up the coast..." "Naw...wants to camp out down here at the park..." "Yeah-up, well, I guess that's his deal..." I witnessed this exchange - between a local sheriff and his Super - just after I crossed into the South

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-44034265255741005792010-06-30T10:35:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.497-07:00

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-35080126465692686412010-06-21T15:01:00.000-07:002010-07-09T14:46:40.127-07:00

of volunteerism - I was tempted to work in a Rush reference - you know, the Canadian band, rock/roll...  radio, etc... So anyway, in the spirit of volunteerism, I donned a dirty shop apron ("shapron..") for a few hours and set to work on bicycles. Since I'm without my own trusty steed and full of vim and vigor, I figured this was a worthwhile way to spend the afternoon.  Much like a lot of

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-70021991655608379472010-06-08T08:42:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.501-07:00

With the rise of the standard-issue documentary, comes the chance for just about anyone to convince a camera-person to follow, shoot and present real life, or unscripted at least.  And, with the success of Anvil bands long since forgotten are line for their due. Ministry.  This one was a surprise, but then again not really.  Before the days of the interweb, the band circulated rumors as well as

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-90976499678462171682010-06-05T09:40:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.505-07:00

Reading about anything US related these days is very much looking at "spooky action at a distance." Since my life recently has been just as confusing as that of the person sitting next to you, or next to the President, or anyone else not on Mars, I've fallen into a state of retrospectivism, which is funny, since there is no such thing.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-42502603906242002102010-06-04T10:39:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.508-07:00

The analogy of life to an onion is so basic a premise that I guess I feel a bit late to the party when I figured out the truth of it - just a few days back.  For as long as I can remember, I've never been able to stand around watching an onion being sliced - the fumes, whatever - drive me crazy.  Watery eyes, sore throat - as of yet no hives - generally an unpleasant experience.  After their cut,

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-39742550287176970652010-06-03T21:14:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.511-07:00

I've never given much thought, at least maybe before some time last week, about the analogy of peeling away an onion.  Could be, I guess, because as I think about onions, I tend to avoid the act of actually cutting them.  If it's flushed out correctly, the analogy goes that life is like an onion, whereby you need to strip down to the root of it all, one layer at time.  What I've focused on

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-43329268258788168302010-05-31T09:18:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.515-07:00

When is not End. I've been drifting a good bit lately.  While not physically so much in the last 4 weeks, most certainly mentally.  Free time allows for roaming I guess.  Too, I've been reminded repeatedly of something my mom to would say - a popular phrase - that life is what happens when you're making plans.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-71039455165717795212010-05-26T19:07:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.519-07:00

Thinking about Beverly Hill's Cop while spending hours in the Ottawa(n) heat makes little sense I guess.  The heat, though, is definitely on.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-21886406031139342242010-05-26T18:58:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.522-07:00

Abscence makes the heart grow fonder; distance provides prespective; power corrupts, absolutely power corrupts absolutely - Life's a garden, dig it. All words of enormous philosophical traction.  And in keeping with the theme of distance provides prespective, I've been challenged, or have welcomed I should say, the challenge of learning while away.  Funny what you hear and what you hear that

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-31124185345044700672010-05-26T18:49:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.526-07:00

Yes indeed.  At the moment, I much aligned with the thought that, as I think I mentioned "another time and another place" - all Han Solo like.  That, I get the news I need on the weather report. Since the prophet Paul (Simon) came up with the quote, it might be just as easy to align myself with the thought that I have no original thoughts. 

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-10764595949185787442010-05-18T09:37:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.530-07:00

Certainly seems so. In addition to being without my bike and own computer, I'm without my ipod which means that I am truly without.  Actually, it's not that it's not on my person, I no longer have an ipod, which reminds me of something that I saw (online) when the ipod nano's first came out.  Some smarty pants (online, there are several) decided he'd go to great lengths to prove that even under

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-68005473109648711692010-05-16T09:23:00.000-07:002010-05-16T09:27:58.907-07:00

Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race. H. G. Wells My hostess with the mostest is without a television.  Perfect for me; even better that this means large amounts of time listening to Canada's public radio station. At the moment, I'm listening to a program highlighting, celebrating (otherwise boiling) over about Montreal's bicycle

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-3693391244942822902010-05-10T16:57:00.000-07:002010-05-10T16:59:06.937-07:00

As of yesterday, I've spent a solid one week in the grand(e) city of Ottawa.  And, all while forcing myself to remember even half of what was uttered my way in French classes (elementary, high school and college), the time thus far has been outstanding.  Occasionally, I find myself thinking of John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson's discussion of the differences between the U.S. and Europe: "It's

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-50930141986284780562010-05-09T14:48:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.535-07:00

"If you're not failing regularly, you're not experimenting hard enough..." I don't know who said it as I was listening to the radio with one ear, and the sound of the keyboard (backspace key) with the other.  It made me realize, more to the point I guess, how much I loathe the special section of the bookstore classified as "self-help." This is a nice way of reference the fact that I've

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-1461653320493293862010-05-07T08:15:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.540-07:00

My hostess (with the mostess) lives without a tv which means a good bit of time spent with the CBC - Canada's public radio station.  At the moment, there's a program on about the room - as in the bathroom.  Very open-minded take on what could happen, should happen and does happen in the bathrooms. Seems Canadians are particular creative when it comes to taking some time out. If you're a Canadin

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-64828446136711886992010-05-05T10:42:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.545-07:00

Sure, yes, cheap way to travel, but hot-damn, it's become something of an obsession.  Way back in San Fransisco I first ventured on a bus because, for one thing, there was a storm that was ripping through the mid-west; the thought of sitting in an airport for hours on end made no sense.  And, two, who doesn't feel the need to reward (punish) themselves from time to time?

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-53071170575708724592010-05-03T10:32:00.000-07:002010-05-03T15:26:26.486-07:00

If I took the time to list the specific events of the last several weeks, I'd have to force myself to reread them. bike trip ends, bus ticket purchased, promises made about another option, time spent waiting for other option to come about, other option never pans out, stress sets in, bus tickets again purchased, 2 days in Virginia Beach, bus tickets purchased 2 days in Harper's Ferry, bus

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-18128943314127847762010-04-12T08:10:00.000-07:002010-04-12T08:10:11.346-07:00

by this afternoon I should see the Virginia state sign. To say the least, I feel like I've seen North Carolina. The ride along the coast, though extremely windy at times, was better than I could expected. Given the time of year, the mad tourist rush has yet to take shape, and yet the local businesses are open in preparation of what's to come. It's been a long almost 2 weeks to the day -

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-51033350663444265812010-04-10T06:31:00.000-07:002010-04-10T06:32:33.135-07:00

Since leaving last Tuesday I've been searching almost at every turn for the recurrence of the spirtual lift - that which got me up and over Hill Country Texas. The decision to make my way back across the country came with the expectation that I could somehow repeat or recreate the feeling that came over me (and stay with me) from Texas though to San Diego. The first week, while good, was

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-83426334933075648702010-04-08T14:00:00.000-07:002010-04-08T14:00:41.721-07:00

View Larger Map Today has been spent riding along the coast, then away, then back to. That is due in large part to the fact that Camp Le Juene does not allow bicycles/or non military traffic through the base. As such, the ride winds around and around. Only about about 4 hours of pedaling am I back to the water. Tomorrow morning, if everything goes as planned, I'll take the ferry over to The

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-38576629014976162062010-04-07T08:24:00.000-07:002010-04-07T08:55:59.809-07:00

View Larger Map It seemed especially challenging with the heat to make the great exit from South Carolina. Much of that too was due in part to the steady increase in bugs. Strange, too, as soon as I made the crossing into North Carolina, the weather changed, and so did the bug situation. To be now, officially, on the Atlantic Coast feels so good. Also, for the first time since probably San

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-33477423113640809092010-04-06T11:05:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.552-07:00

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-39978870192534930772010-04-05T08:30:00.000-07:002010-04-07T08:48:15.345-07:00

The last few days have been outstanding. While the weather has been blazing hot for the better part of each day, the roads throughout South Carolina are outstanding. On top of that, the drivers are more than accommodating. I am about 30 miles or so from the border of North Carolina, having riding east, then west, then east en route north to the coast. So many small towns that they seem to run

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-90865162055797922852010-04-01T10:59:00.000-07:002010-04-07T08:48:31.758-07:00

View Larger Map is VERY large. And while being very spread out further east, it's not exactly flat either.  I keep thinking that at some point the mountainous - hilly sections will flatten (closer to the coast, it seems.) Thought I'd mention too, something about the bicycle route option on google.map, for anyone convinced that it's the "second coming..."  You'd be correct, as for the "second

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-44274050333482948772010-03-29T07:37:00.000-07:002010-03-29T12:56:25.015-07:00

is never as fun as the day after - sometimes, at least. And, since I'm struggling to read a calendar correctly, the concept of "days" is loosely defined. So, today is the 29th, which makes six months to the day since leaving for the west coast.  I'm leaving officially tomorrow, which will be the same day that I left last time, so it's all terribly confusing. I've never been southeast of

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-39307302903292537022010-03-28T20:40:00.001-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.557-07:00

So, yeah, I need to learn to read one.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-34988530857157027562010-03-26T12:41:00.000-07:002010-03-27T13:23:50.507-07:00

March 29, 2009 will should represent just that. On that date I am setting out on another bike ride, with the intention of finally seeing the state of Oregon.  Rather than take a plane to west coast and ride the remaining miles left over from my last trip, I've decided to start from beginning by leaving, again from GA; then ride to VA, and then out to Oregon.  As far as I can tell, everything is

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-59759686438237084922010-03-06T15:42:00.000-08:002010-03-06T15:42:34.343-08:00

If you can't find any over the next few days... I happened to be in Barnes and Noble today as a bit of break, and notice that NatGeo Traveler has two separate articles about bicycles; one a piece on extended travel or touring, the other listing the most bicycle friendly cities in the country.  Both are really good pieces - for Tuesday when it rains. And, with the sun, comes countless reminders

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-29082940915651463272010-02-24T08:11:00.000-08:002010-02-24T08:21:42.740-08:00

The only thing you can do is dream about warmer weather.  There may be some full-proof way of ensure nicer temperatures, but that would likely require a change of address. And while the weather is more down that up, you can always update your calendar for Spring. Two big events are planned for March and April, respectively.  On March 23, 2010, you'll have the opportunity to show support for

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-39774735195888384632010-02-21T13:21:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.404-08:00

you should have; no reason not to have been outside. I've given up thinking about the weather in Atlanta.  6 days ago, snow put the city to an, almost, stand-still. Today, wow - 67 degrees and limited cloud cover.  It would be worth obsessing about today, if not for the perfect day yesterday. The last few weeks I've made a concerted effort to put in at least 30 miles a day, despite the weather

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-36701188002057774432010-02-20T07:40:00.001-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.404-08:00

I’ve been guilty of having a fair amount of wow time here in the last several months.  Lucky too, but guilty maybe more as I see things around me since incorporating more sitting that leads me to think of more wow time.  That makes no sense. Truth be told, before leaving for California back in September, I spent a fair amount of time thinking over how to carrying my Terrible-One, Sweet Fuck All,

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-52105389970016499652010-02-17T07:59:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.405-08:00

I just heard a bird chirp today, which means, I hope, that Spring is just right there – almost, soon.  The weather this weekend is supposed to be really nice, somewhere over 55 degrees, so a heat wave.  This very good, as the Beltline organization is having a Signing the BeltLine, Art Painting Party. The bold text means it’s official.  As advertised through facebook, they welcome the artistic

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-59146720589589305352010-02-11T08:01:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.406-08:00

One of my biggest, longest running pet peeves is changing a wasted tube on/under a bike tire.  I was thinking about it yesterday and realized that before switching to the world of 700cx25mm, I probably went YEARS between tubes.  Usually I’d just change them when switching out tires.  Granted the average bmx tire is designed to take a fair amount of abuse while looking “cool” the entire time, but

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-53729224178973406512010-02-09T09:15:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.407-08:00

Well, there’s a price for everything I guess.  Suffering through two flat tires on Sunday was certainly a good price to pay for knowledge provided. A lot of the information these days about the beltline – Atlanta’s – can be found on their website; but, honestly, it wasn’t until taking a few hours by bicycle to ride around it that I realize how amazing the final project will be. For anyone

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-17013793164771060672010-02-05T08:04:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.408-08:00

With the weather the last few days and with my current amount of free time, I’ve been left with little to do but search for the end of internet.  I have yet to find it, but I did stumble onto something that has sparked a LARGE (huge, festering, almost burning) interest. When I was in New Mexico (Silver City) a few months back I heard stories of people riding from Canada into Mexico along what’s

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-43932194639136852662010-02-04T08:07:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.408-08:00

If you grew up anywhere near a dragracing track, you might be familiar with the slightly overzealous radio programs that go in step. While this Sunday could very easily be “jet funny-car week” at any one town, here in the grand city of Atlanta it will also serve as a chance for fellow cyclists to get a look-see at what may come of the beltline.  I mention this because the beltline is very much

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-51829569071384748542010-01-29T08:09:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.410-08:00

Yes, it most certainly is.  It was very much something little that almost rendering bananaking.com more useless than normal. Fortunately, before the lights went out, I backed up everything.  In the end I was left with a blank page and spent a good hour rebuilding.  One awesome feature of wordpress is the ability to backdate postings.  Some subtle changes, namely no more splash page – I

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-91254937848919473652010-01-06T08:10:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.410-08:00

that almost two weeks ago I was concerned about the weather. According to all reports – TV, online, lady at the local supermarket – Georgia is in for the storm of the year, or ah, the decade maybe.  Tomorrow we are set to get some moisture (a storm) from the Gulf of Mexico, which according to some, means snow in Georgia (whereas, a storm coming from the north would result in just an extreme

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-53217841573127693672009-12-22T08:14:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.412-08:00

well, not much really. Maybe some dry socks or a rain hat, but other than that… Currently weathering through the rain this part of the coast, which may well be the entire coast – at the moment in Point Arena it’s nice and, well almost dry, some rain.  Since leaving SF a few days back, the rain has either been ahead of me, or has caught up to me after stopping for the evening. As mentioned a few

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-6380563080181405862009-12-19T08:20:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.413-08:00

Wow, so yes, I am on a bicycle tour – really, I am…   You wouldn’t know it based on my recent schedule.  San Fransisco has really gotten the best of me. Tomorrow, for real this time, I leave the comfortable confines of a hostel mattress and make the move back into a sleeping bag.  I’ve gotten on really well with a few of my hostel mates, all of whom are leaving tomorrow, so it will be a nice

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-66229969783584249542009-12-18T08:23:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.414-08:00

I’ll leave San Fransisco.  It’s an easy place to become part of; bike friendly, super nice people, on and on. As of yesterday, I had planned to leave the city this morning, and start further up the coast.  It sounded good.  I really just wanted the chance to spend some time here with the sun out, which it definitely was today. I took a trek over the Golden Gate Bridge.  For all the photos you’

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-19818268204278002032009-12-17T08:25:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.414-08:00

getting the first class upgrade is awesome, so is sleep.  Some 40 hours awake coupled with about 2 of sleep ain’t a lot of fun.  And since I’m now almost fully rested, it figures that the rain would arrive.  I’ve only seen a little of San Fransisco – rain or no rain – so I’ve decided to hang around for an extra day to take in some of the sights. Tomorrow morning is supposed to be sunny(ier); I’

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-26966107799409596972009-12-16T08:24:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.415-08:00

for jet-lag – the unexpected upgrade to first-class.  Even with about 2 hours sleep the night before, and with stressing out over checking in an EXTRA large box of “camping equipment” at the airline, I was bright eyed enough to become even more bright eyed about the “well, why don’t we switch you to one of our first class seats…” Yes, why not indeed. San Fran is much like when I left a few

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-60043869629774707602009-11-23T08:26:00.000-08:002010-03-28T20:45:13.840-07:00

the trip is continuing to take many a turn. Currently in Oakland, working on an arrangement for Thanksgiving Eve, if not just a ride through San Fran. The goal at this point is to get to Chico, maybe by the end of the weekend – Sunday. From there, who knows. It’s getting a little colder with each passing mile, but fortunately, I am no longer in SoCal. More later. www.gingerninjas.com –

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-19661513042514516022009-11-20T08:27:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.416-08:00

in a way I have had to readjust my intentions for the trip north. Everything since arriving San Diego has been bike-lane this, or that, complete with the Pacific Ocean to my immediate left – at times, just a few feet away. While it’s a far cry from riding 300 miles between bike-shops or the run throuhg Hill Country Texas, or even the never ending sand dunes of Eastern California, it’s been good.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-34807194113681207292009-11-16T08:29:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.418-08:00

I would ask anyone who reads this to take some time this morning or this afternoon and look over pablove.org.  To have had the opportunity yesterday and this morning to spend time with the team ranks as one of the best experiences of my trip thus far.  I’ll give an account of my 14 hours or so with them in a few days, but in the interim, please read over the mission statement and have a look see

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-18581413593504055212009-11-16T08:28:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.418-08:00

it is. Nice city, brutal arrival, complete with an amazing downhill – almost – drop into the coast (a good portion of my 92 miles roughly the other day was up mountain…) Tomorrow I am starting my journey further north, as in up the coast of CA en route to Vancouver, depending on weather, etc.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-45394218455617991262009-11-15T08:31:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.419-08:00

HOLY FUCKING C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I feel a little better after that…  hang on, HOLY FUCKING C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I don’t know what to say – other than what shows above.  New Mexico and Arizona almost did me in physical – but yesterday’s roughly 120 mile ride was so

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-35096039747966001242009-11-13T08:33:00.000-08:002010-03-26T13:15:20.557-07:00

to the map, CA is just right there.  I lost my ACA map for the final leg of the trip some time yesterday coming into PHX, which means this portion will end my like the beginning of my trip through Alabama - state road map, and a fair amount of faith. The last few days have been much like my trip through hill country.  Emory Pass stands as the major accomplishment for the whole trip – some 8800

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-49317682932725975102009-11-10T08:34:00.000-08:002010-03-27T13:36:28.450-07:00

about the Internet; certainly, any user can and does serve as a armchair sociologist from time to time. When the Internet connects one person in Atlanta, with another in El Paso it’s nice; when the same connection allows a complete stranger to be absolutely provided for, it’s something else entirely. Tony and Elisa, I cannot thank you both enough for last night and this morning – the meals, the

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-74297008836911062642009-11-08T08:35:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.422-08:00

Tomoroow, when I regain the use of my legs and hands, I’ll write more. Today run:  Van Horn to El Paso – 121 MILES!!!!!!….!!!!!!!!!  feels good, even if I did kind of cheat with the mountain time change.

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-1123968213094457362009-11-05T08:36:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.423-08:00

my best yesterday to come up with an everyday, somewhat elementary posting.  Like a lot of things these days, what was before just doesn’t seem right or to make much sense.  Though, If anything I guess, it was a way to incorporate a Clutch song into my trip, one that is that is ever-so appropriate. Having since accepted the fact that, as noted, everything is different, I’m experiencing

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-55203818284386759312009-11-04T08:38:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.424-08:00

feathers  of angels stuffed beneath your head; The Regulator’s swinging pendulum.” The Regulator - Clutch Maryland’s poet laureate  Neil Fallon and his three fellow travels came up with lyrics and a song that strikes at the very heart of my current location – the rest of the song is amazing by the way.  While no regulators running the country side, it’s not hard to imagine. The 55 mile ride

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-89754419079431611692009-11-03T08:41:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:20.425-08:00

much more to offer after yesterday, but Kyle (Grob) I wanted to personally thank you for the comment – far from a rant my friend.  And, thank you Chelle for yours as well – again, Portland sounds nice… Texas has positioned itself to be very much a life journey at this point.  My meditative state that I referred to yesterday is becoming one of  spiritual peace, and one of that is deeply routed in

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-78371990968916154462009-11-02T08:42:00.000-08:002010-02-22T10:15:52.116-08:00

After leaving Atlanta, and locking my apartment door for what would be the last time, it was fair to say that my life as it was minutes before, would change.  In between Atlanta and Austin, the conversations and personal interaction have provided me with “something” that I can’t really describe but that will carry me for the rest of my life. The last 6 days have been so profound, for the total

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-35327726992805727392009-10-27T08:44:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.118-08:00

Buda…  well, close maybe. Austin is behind me, or east of center at this point.  The last 4 week have comprised of time spent at RV parks, state parks, recreation centers, mud, grass, etc, etc.  Austin has much the same variety, plus an added establishment know as a hostel… For the average American, that could very well mean any number of things – often with hint of truth.  Fortunately, the

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-83880526645080968502009-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.119-08:00

Bastrop is a neat town, not too big, not terribly small.  As quasi-outpost for Austin, there’s a fair amount of traffic running east and west. Yesterday, I had given some thought to making the trip to downtown Austin.  The route itself is fairly basic, ton of hills, country side, etc.  However, with the pending rainstorm yesterday evening, I decided against it.  The folks at the RV park here in

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-77392579472855995802009-10-26T08:46:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.120-08:00

The weather this morning was much what I’ve come to expect of Texas – rain, followed by a shit ton of sun.  A little chilly at first, but really nice. A huge, HUGE thank you to Nick and Kiisa, and Tom at Empirebmx.  The package I was expecting arrived safely/soundly. This is definitely a very neat town – which might sound cheesy; in all serioulsy, no surprise that Empire and T-1, and soon eough

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-24437646401516263192009-10-24T08:48:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.121-08:00

to the best of them.  My rear tire finally decided it was having no more of the trip.  Well, actually, it would have probably lasted a few more miles – maybe 100 – but it was very much at the end. The timing couldn’t have been better, since I arrived in Bastrop ,TX this morning where there was a bike shop.  And, at that, they had the same tire.  I’m not yet ready to give the manufacturer a

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-17287966081487417682009-10-22T08:50:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.123-08:00

a real blog, with the multiple posting in one day.  Well, when you stop at an RV park with a complementary computer, you have to indulge. I mentioned about seeing the local barrister.  While I was nursing a scolding cup of coffee at the local gas-station, Faber McMullen gave me an invite to see his office, which stands as one of the oldest buildings in Navasota.  He’s currently turning into an

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-20708325081023549922009-10-20T08:52:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.124-08:00

is big – or better; handshakes, smiles, waves, conversations, and fortunately for me – the shoulders of any road (some shoulders are wider than some of the roads in LA.) If it’s not already apparent, outside of clicking off as many miles as I can each day, I am always out for a nice chat over breakfast, lunch, dinner – at a campsite, bikeshop – really anywhere.  It wasn’t a goal before leaving,

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-55481185400186101292009-10-20T08:49:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.125-08:00

ago I hit the three week mark.  I’m not sure if I’m getting into a habit or if I’ve just started focusing more on basic things, but the days seem to be flying by. While I haven’t been keeping up with the specific mileage, I also realized that I am well over the 1000 mile mark, which in itself is very much hard to believe.  Since picking up the ACA route in Defuniak Springs Florida, I’ve traveled

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-17811145020340378722009-10-19T08:53:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.127-08:00

Yup, with all the pedaling the last few days it was bound to happen – I’m approaching the great state of Texas – about 40 miles away. My time spent in LA has been nothing short of phenomenal. After my last posting, I left Jackson en route to Morganza and with it the opportunity to cross for the Mississippi. Since I was probably 5 or 6 I have always been enamored by the River – a lot of that was

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-67062781678336632792009-10-16T08:55:00.000-07:002010-03-26T13:16:45.915-07:00

today but smile…” Well, we can’t all live the Paul Simon life, so smiling and pedaling at this point. This may come as no surprise, but Lousiana does not play when it comes to rain and thunderstorms. After spending a little too much time in Bogalusa, I went straight for the great unknown. A lot of my day yesterday was spent looking for things that “weren’t never there…?” or that have since

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-66774479821985483362009-10-15T08:56:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.130-08:00

Yup, made it. Well, actually yesterday evening around 5pm. Yesterday was grueling – rain, rain, rain and sometimes a road. Not sure what to make of Mississippi. As with every state, the people have been super nice all the way along, and especially interested in the bearded, semi-showered, hardly-clean bike-rider. The thing is, with the “trusted” ACA map, I spent the majority of the time in parts

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-31971248931121995932009-10-13T08:58:00.000-07:002010-03-26T13:19:05.777-07:00

for what will be the last time. Alabama has been very much a central focus of the trip thus far. It’s either been in front of me, or resting on my right shoulder. I made it to Voncleave, MS in record time. While that may not sound like something special, the route out of Mobile absolutely was the worst. Add to that the fact that I ended up basically doing a huge u-turn which took me about an hour

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-56665905366188166702009-10-12T09:00:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.132-08:00

Tom Hanks here lately.  Partly due to being in and around Shrimp Country, and partly because I was not sure I would ever “leave the island.” I made record time getting to Dauphin Island.  The island is very much the most beautiful place you’ve never heard of.  Empty this time of year, which means you meet everyone in town – resident or tourist.  I was very fortunately to have run into Sam and

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-21436385092568162682009-10-10T09:02:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:41.880-08:00

every mans life when turning single makes sense.  For those of you whom I know away from this website, you’re well aware that I am single; given that my bike at this point is very muhc an extension of my true self (see Kant), it make sense (no really I guess it doens’t) that the bike following accordingly. So yesterday the spoke in question pull completely through the rim, which suffered even

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-80208964227637758462009-10-09T09:03:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:41.881-08:00

no one ever said it would be this hard… At the moment I’m somewhere between WTF and laughing.  Seriously, who knew the act of pedaling could promote so many things - a shit ton of good with a drizzling of minor.  Last week I was shedding electronic items as fast as Circuit City, this week, man, I may be the first person to do a nosewheelie all the way to Vancouver (where a back-wheel is no

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-19211015187770874032009-10-07T09:05:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:41.882-08:00

Amid the nice wide shoulders and smooth pavement (officially on the ACA route as of about 20 miles ago stands the HUMIDITY. Man, it’s warm and wet. Up until about 2 days ago I was able to wash everything in the sink at whatever campsite, and have it dry overnight. I tried it last night and nothing dried which meant a trip to the sketchiest laundry you’ve ever seen in your life – plus “the worst

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-14676597328069983532009-10-06T09:06:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:20.401-08:00

you can rest assured, I’ll always do my best for her, on that I give my word… With either fate or luck, or both, I’m typing this in Florida – have been in the state for about 15 miles. 3 weeks ago if you had told me I would have spent almost a full week in Alabama, no chance I would have believed it.  Even more, to say that I have enjoyed the week would be an understatement – too many tales to

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-15056676741651243742009-10-02T09:07:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:20.404-08:00

amazing, some have the tendency to sour like milk- the random, no plan email you think is a good idea to send…  think before sending. Others looked good on paper (map)… I’m currently in Alexander City, Alabama.  Which is not exactly where I expected to be; originally, I had planned to go due west into MS, but after eyeball 278/78 first hand, thought the better of it. After getting a new cell

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-86065726980144563872009-09-30T09:08:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:16:20.405-08:00

of misadventure. Well, after riding 97.98098 miles yesterday (09/29) I felt as tired and as physically stressed as I ever have.  Spent the night in Piedmont, Alabama near a random freezing cold creek – pretty though.  You’ll likely find it on a map, but it’s the smallest of towns. As for the misadventure part, suffice it to say that I lost the one item that I honestly felt I could not do

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-43877633200050019112009-09-29T09:09:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.139-08:00

Trying to count the number of times I’ve seen this one shot over the last three and almost a half years would be like to trying to write every word I’ve said since then as well. The weather the last few days gave this photo a feel that seems almost depressing.  While it’s certainly not a depressing step, I can’t help feeling a tad apprehensive about leaving what was home. Hopefully, by the

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-58680704918565760122009-09-28T09:12:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.140-08:00

I was half-way tempted to make a joke about jock-straps and the lot, but that would only serve to demise the amount of support I’ve received over the last few weeks/months. A big thank you to the following: Nick, Kiisa, Penn; Darren and Kristin; Miles and Krista; Noel; Dave-Hectorlifax; Tinkle; Kyle; George; Matt Bennett; Trish; the 429 Posse – Chris, family, and weekend-Mike, Brian and Blue,

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-5078202526969574312009-08-04T06:18:00.000-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.689-07:00

Price is a factor all too obvious in conversations regarding what you want, and what you get. However, what's interesting is that what is free has staying power - longevity, etc. Case in point - the library. Here lately I have made a concerted effort to use the library as much as I can, partly be

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-32941276464927674302009-07-13T16:49:00.000-07:002011-04-08T09:25:15.692-07:00

The last posting was not very well thought out, but when I give any thought to going back and modifying it, I forget the feeling I originally had when I first saw the worm.For me, tha'

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-79014408784854760472009-07-03T17:27:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.143-08:00

Yup, would seem so at times. I have been so overwhelmed here lately with the feeling that if I don't pay attentiont to the tiny details I'm done for...The other day I was driving to work - on a Saturday - Saturday morning actually. While I didn't pay much attention when I first got in my car, I saw something out of the corner my eye that affected my entire day - even now I'm taken by it.On the

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-5005869840955738942009-06-23T19:04:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.144-08:00

As in, do you think, kind of, maybe there's a chance this, what is happening right now, here, will be worth a tale of its own in the future.  I'm beginning to think that the only thing really worth uttering throughout the day is that which may be worth uttering next week - something with some staying power.  So many questions...Not many things today would pass the test of "worth uttering next

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-21431208983413963332009-06-22T13:59:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.146-08:00

get poopy in flash... and think about how useful it would be, when it does, if there was in front you a plot of grass to wipe it off. Most the time, you track the poopy nature of life from here to there; not damaging enough to make a mess, just troubling enough to give that "what the fuck is that..." smell to everything and anything. And like the pile in the yard, the poopy nature of life -

The me you seenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2834143726291390254.post-47496814627638045912009-06-21T17:45:00.000-07:002010-02-22T10:15:52.148-08:00

this very strange thought that life really boils down...  when the heat is turned up.  The phrase "what it boils down to..." rarely takes into account heat, or the act of heating.  The act of boiling an item often shreds the tiny, mundane details, leaving the barest or the bare.  The hotter, the more boiling.  The simmer setting, though, is something I struggle with - "what life simmers on to be 

The me you seenoreply@blogger.com