Epic

Not really full blown epic actually. I didn't get lost, no bonking, no emerg pastries consumed (too cold to stop really) and no particular stories worth mention. But hey, 5 hours in riding outside in subzero end of December is pretty decent. Especially with the amount of snow we've gotten. Just enough time to ride the rollers for 30 minutes when I got while and while eating my recovery sangas (cheese and jelly). I actually had to ride the rollers. It seemed like the simplest option to regain feeling/circulation in my feet. And it worked. Felt really good and solid anyways. Waited until about 10 to head out, let it "warm up" a bit. Cruised east for a solid 2.5 hours zigging and zagging, and then turned around and attempted to repeat my route. Success. Had the ol' water bottle shuffle rocking out with 3 bottles cycling between cages and my warm pockets, some good tunes and plenty of good spirits. Plus, I had my new "ghetto-budget" booties. Forgot my booties in Perth and then forgot to pick up some new ones at the shop yesterday. Basically stuck plastic grocery bags on my feet over my socks and then put the shoes on top. Worked surprisingly well until my feet began to sweat. Then the sweat socked my socks. Then the socks basically turned to ice. Hence the roller ride and long shower. Felt like a bit of a Euro riding the rollers in leg warmers, jacket, and tuque (all fresh and non sweated in). Plus my sammies helped out. Quick dinner with the fam then out for a hard ass hockey game. Played forward on a team with only 2 subs. First time skating in a while too. And I was the only back checking forward. Ouch. Needless to say, I'm knackered. Quasi early ski tomorrow morning with JS. Should be a decent one, P10 to the fire tower and back. Then New Years. No plans. If anyone has any good ideas, call me. Otherwise, I'm sure a suitable shitshow of an evening should arise anyways. Sandy out.

hockey, riding and relatives

Up early for 2 hours hockey with the boys. Traditional christmas time hockey. Good game, good times. Back home for a wander around Ottawa with the relatives. Did the tour of the Parliament buildings, wicked cool architecture and detail work. Got home, and hit the rollers for a solid 3 hours before dinner while the fam continued their tour of downtown. Watched Shattered with Pierce Brosnan for the first hour and half or so of the ride. Wicked thriller of a movie I must say. Pretty gripping. In to work tomorrow and Saturday. Got a call to play nets early tomorrow morning, but also have limited time pre work and the need for a long ride. We'll have to wait and see on this one I'm afraid. New Year's approaches, and I need a plan. Unfortunately plans and I don't gel all that well, so it will most likely be another 'flying-by-the-seat-of-my-pants' affair. No worries, New Years is always a shit show. Been busy playing with my new mobile. Pretty wicked sweet, except for the fact that I currently can only respond to texts, not compose my own. Plus, I'm sick of being stuck on hold with those wankers. I'm going to the source.

Post christmas ramblings

Parliment Hill in the mist around dark. Cool. Call me tourist.

Christmas has come and gone again. Made more enjoyable again not only by good times with the fam, and some wine, but also with the christmas day outdoor ride. Managed to sneak in a solid 2 hours outside this afternoon out towards Manotick and back through downtown Ottawa. Solid road conditions and pretty warm temperatures allowed this and I was only kept to a maximum of 2 hours due to many food related commitments. Spent a solid evening with the grandparents in church Christmas eve enjoying the religious aspect and other charades accompanying the church experience. An overall entertaining experience in watching my grandfather sing his heart out in his off tune and off note type of way and watching the small children (like really young) perform the nativity. Though due to their age, the performance was interrupted by some new features such as: the tossing of the baby Jesus, the sword fight of angels vs. shepherds and one wayward donkey (?) wandering off stage after getting smoked by a "sword". Entertaining to say the least. After our arrival home for the traditional family feast and "entertainment" we discovered our stove had exploded so we're forced to cook our hors d'euvres in a toaster oven. Ate dinner eventually, relaxed for the evening and hoped the remainder of my newly created gift's varnish had dried. No such luck so took the hairdryer to them in the morning. Gift time went well, the meals were wicked, and got a good ride in. Now, time for coffee and the traditional stay up all night with Pook to attempt to be first in line at the Future Shop Boxing Day sale. Not sure if I even need anything. But tradition is tradition. Happy Boxing day to all. Or something like that. Fill in your own non-offensive cheer perhaps.

Happy Festivus or whatever you celebrate

As far as I'm concerned, politically correct can kiss my buttocks. All this about no longer putting up Christmas trees or whatever pisses my off sometimes. I'm no offended if someone wishes me happy Hanukkah or something. Tis the season to be happy and stressed. Nearly finished all my gifting related activities, and cooking demands. Training has been somewhat week for the last few days. Bothers me a bit, but hey. Family is around only a few days. I'll be back in the saddle soon. Back to serious hours and serious business. For now, I'm busy praying that the varnish I applied for a few gifts dries by tomorrow morning. For the rest of you, happy/merry festivus or applicable holiday season.

Ride?

More hockey and "work" then riding lately. Something like 3-4 hours of hockey in the last 2 days. No riding. And about 5 hours of hand tool wood working today. Stupid carpentry. Apparently people expect "handmade" wooden gifts now. Saves me on the cash, but causes a lot of work. Coming along pretty decent though. Nothing wrong with a little respite from the riding, especially since judging from how sore I am after this cutting and carving I could probably have worn a heart rate monitor and called it "cross training". Real work tomorrow. Hopefully a few hours on the rollers in the evening. Going is getting tough in the next few days with the arrival of christmas and therefor relatives. Nothing wrong with that, love hanging out with family. Just cuts into available training time. Maybe some early mornings. Hopefully finish off several of my "projects" tomorrow and then have one less thing on the go. I'll report more later after I find something interesting going on and some spare time. Odd that now without class, I seem to have less time available...

Wednesday update

My internet situation around here blows. Forgot about that. Got pretty accustomed to good, high speed out in Perth. Come back to Ottawa, no internet, drivers are tools, and as a general rule I hate most of the people around here. Not you all, you're mostly ok. Just the rest of this town. Good couple of training days, 3 hours on the rollers yesterday, 3.5 hours today followed by a pretty wicked skate ski session at Mooney's Bay. Straight up anger on the way home with traffic's lack of movement. Realizing that I kind of miss cooking my own dinners. If I can find time, I may have to start cooking some dinners around here. We'll see. I still promise some Christmas pictures to come, just need to get access to some decent and dependable internet. We'll see. Christmas is approaching. And I need to get on that.

I feel a white christmas

Seriously? 37cm of snow? This is ridiculous. Cyclery party was its usual self. No disappointment there. Vipond may be regretting the couple extra martinis he consumed. No one seems quite certain how he got to that point, but big up to Tomsic who partook in the cab ride home to carry big Nick to bed. Poor Jenny. Still somewhat fuzzy on the details of how or when I got home. Woke up about half undressed about 1 or 2 in the aft. Managed to both not lose my camera and even take 139 pictures. Wow. Though, after looking through them, I don't think I had the camera in my possession for the duration of the evening. Maybe Brian's $100 a bottle "sipping" tequila had something to do with that. Overall. An excellent evening/night/morning and a complete write off of Sunday. Did manage to sober up and suit up for my first hockey of the season at a well attended (me and 5 others) game. Operation snow removal is in full swing here. Was trying to bust out for a ski with Keir this aft, but after an inspection of the snow situation, I rode the rollers for a solid 4 hours. Basically, my car parks on a lane way. The snow plows have now passed the main streets, which means that these gigantor snowbanks along the roads are blocking my car in at either end of the lane way. Seriously tough to get a Civic (even with winter tyres) over a 5 foot tall embankment of snow. So, more shoveling. Nice easy evening ahead I hope, generally martini and Bailey's free.

Quick

Quick update:
-Christmas Party stache. Check
-Christmas party suit (can you say pink and argyle?)
-Little something extra for the coffee. You know it.
-Watching Norm on New Yankee Workshop with my coffee. Check. I'm I'm closet case old man apparently.

Couple hours on the rollers yesterday. Had to cut the ski out of the sched to allow for helping my mom out with a bunch of stuff. No big deal. Still got a couple hours in. Plus, the full on training doesn't restart until after tonights festivities. My camera should be in attendance. Sober camera operator, yet to be seen. Sunday should be for the most part a write off. Sent off my South Carolina stuff last night. From what I see, most seem to be working in advance. Not really my style, but hey. I can adapt. Enjoy your Saturday.

At last

Here we are. 1 hour from the final of the finals. Construction Safety. I don't really even care that much any more. My "exam beard" is gone. Replaced with something a little odd and mildly entertaining for the Cyclery bash. Just gotta get the outfit to go with it. Even nearly packed. I impress myself. I really just need to get this exam over and done with so I can get onto non-school life. Just gotta toss all my crud in the car and get rolling. Not much riding going on today I fear. Not necessarily a bad thing, recovery is technically the key. That and focus on these exams. Solid day planned tomorrow, ride Saturday morning, work, party. And Sunday should be mostly a write off. Thats what happens. I'll probably get itchy to do something in the aft. We'll see how I feel. Sandy out.

Road map

This saddle represents my riding. As you can see, what was once a nice white saddle is now become a road map of the hours my butt has spent planted in it. You can see exactly the width of my sit bones and where they rest. You can see that my inner thighs rub the saddle, and as extra proof of that hair no longer grows there on my thighs. Apparently this is what must be done to make it. Long days, and years of imprinting your buttocks into a new saddle. Then, come spring... replace it with a shiny new map and start from scratch. Me, I have my sweet new couch of a saddle waiting. Figure, me and the ol' Turbo here have been through so much, why end this relationship now? Heck, maybe I'll mount it on my wall after. Kind of like the cyclists version of hanging antlers or fish above your fireplace.
In other news. Three exams down, one to go. Only problem, my mind has given up. According to it, school is done and riding is back. Its going to be a serious mental challenge to get some studying done. Then, packing, writing the actual thing, and making a break for home. Friday should be a good solid training day as we ramp up the hours for the next 3-4 weeks. Already dreaming of the mountains of South Carolina... Time to get some testing done soon chez Nick and maybe pick up some fat xc skis from Kiwi. I figure it could be cheaper than busting up my race skis on some of these back country excursions. I'll see what has been sitting around the shop and needs to move for the starving cyclist/student budget kinda price range. Drafting exam went pretty bloody well today, got a impressed thumbs up on my drawings. So to celebrate, I rode the trainer for a solid 3 hours with a whole wack of 1 legged drills. Ouch. Minimal easy spin tomorrow morning. Maybe study while riding? Then a final 2 pm exam. I'm so close. I'm starting to get excited to race. Its getting tougher to keep the intensity down. Gotta go burn off some of this excitement at the Christmas partay. woot.

Nearing completion

Ten page architecture paper with 2 pages of references. Done.
Carpentry projects completed. Check.
Regain pre-exam period sanity levels. Debatable.
Math exam, no worries. Didn't stress. Just skipped over the few questions giving me headaches and came back to them later. Spent many an evening hour sipping a beer and hammering out 10 pages of architectural insight. Quick dinner break, re-heated some wicked pasta made for just that purpose. Gonna need a few groceries today I think. Up early again today, into the shop. Ripped through my remaining projects, made sure all were marked or checked off. Took a bit of time to sharpen my tools in prep for the oncoming work over the holidays of christmas gift creations. Back home now. Quick respite from the work before reading over my Carpentry theory stuff before this aft's exam.
Best news of the week: my Friday English for Retards exam was apparently a figment of my imagination. Checked the exam sched yesterday. Looks like I can make the break for home on Thursday eve instead of Friday. Wicked. This is important on several fronts...
a) I have only 4 exams, and now Friday off.
b) Friday can and will be a good solid training day instead. Pow.
c) I will have time Friday to head to Value Village to compile my Cyclery Christmas Party suit 2007. I have to outdo '06. I have a reputation to uphold.
I'm so excited I think I'll ride tonight. That's how I celebrate. Cause' I'm just that cool. My food reserves are currently on Defcon 5 as I don't want to leave much behind here for the weeks I won't be around. Looks like eggs in toast for lunch. And maybe every other meal until I leave. Or run out of bread. Otherwise I'm pumped for a solid three weeks of simply training tons, sleeping and maybe a little working. Bam.

sore & stiff

Woke up bright and early this morning to discover just how stiff the majority my body is after that round of bushwacking yesterday. Really actually impressive how many muscles cycling really doesn't use. And how many of those nordic skiing DOES. Not helping was the fact that I felt the need to be in school (in the shop more specifically) to join the rest of my class in attempting to finish off the dozens of projects that were technically supposed to be done last Friday. I indeed finished a few, better have considering I was there for 4 bloody hours, and even managed to get some work done on a few specific christmas gifts. Not bad. After that, had to run to the store to buy a calculator that actually has Trig functions, found it mildly stressful last test attempting to use my current calc which does not. Also picked up a sub on the road for lunch, now learning a semester worth of math in approximately 1 1/2 hours. I'm confident. I mean hell, all I need is a 60% to pass the exam. Next step, finish the world's most massive architecture paper for tomorrow and figure out what exam I am to attend tomorrow. I figure that bit of knowledge could be useful. Needless to say, its not looking promising for squeezing in a ride today. Hopefully back on the bike tomorrow for a nice easy spin. It is a recovery week after all. At this point, I feel that I have wasted enough time. Time to get some coffee in me and get to school. Maybe learn to use my new calculator. All in all, I just want to ride my bike.

weekend update

Friday: nothing. Basically it. I was tired. So basically, got home, watched a bit of a movie with a beer and then went to sleep.
Saturday: work during the day, then went out for a few beers with Sarah Coney. Good to see one of the summer cyclist crew members back in Ottawa. Next up, baking. More on that escapade after the fact.
Sunday: early awakening for a ski with the old man crew, plus me and Vipond. Wicked fun. Basically beat around in the bush, on our race skis (except fancy boy Nick with some back country) skis, for about 3 hours. Seriously intense 3 hours. Mostly trudging through 20cm if fresh powder. Breaking trail, and generally careening around down the hills out of control. It commonly, ok every hill, seemed to end with me tangling myself around trees, not sticking the landing, or eating a lot of snow. I also got a lot of snow down my pants. To be fair, it was voted that I made the day fun. Everyone would go down the hill first, then let me know when I could drop it when they found good vantage points. I also took home prizes for going the fastest (though fully without control) and most air of several jumps. I need to learn to land next. No I find myself back in Perth, attempting to
a) study. math exam tomorrow.
b) write my massive architecture paper.
Unfortunately, both are not currently happening. Though I will change that. Right after I brew some coffee. To prove my commitment, I will now sign this post off. Serious.

Home

You'll have to excuse me, I'm not at my best
I've been gone for a week
I've been drunk since I left
And these so-called vacations
Will soon be my death
I'm so sick from the drink
I need home for a rest

Take me home....

Not actually drunk. But I am going home. Hopefully some rest, though I do have a fair amount of work to get done this weekend I'm afraid. Plus the usual skis and bikes. I really should have put off downloading 4 new movies until after exams. This could, and most likely will, cause me some problems in the studying department. So close to 3 weeks of no class.... And after that, so much closer to spring....

No Chain

1. A feeling of effortless pedaling, as to not feel the chain on your bicycle.
2. A great day in the saddle. Good legs / form.
What is, a no chain day on the bike.

I like that. Hard to have one of those days on the trainer, but lets be honest. That is the reason why so many of us put in all the hours and sweaty hours. While others stay out late, or sleep in - we pedal, and pedal more. All in hopes of another one of those days. Another feeling of elation as you ride at your best. Most important is to focus not on a victory itself, but to focus on pushing yourself beyond your preconceived limits. And perhaps, if you are lucky, find yourself pedaling away from those around you (as if you indeed did not have to grind away that chain on your gears), effortlessly dropping down a gear and flowing across the line with your arms in the air. A salute to all of the work you have done. PVP once said, "no one wins (Roubaix) with luck alone, you must have put in the miles to be in that position."

Today's post goes out to procrastination. Such as the wonderful job I'm doing at putting off my English "reflective" essay, which may or may not happen to be due tomorrow. So far I have procrastinated by spending my afternoon riding the trainer, made myself a pretty wicked pasta for dinner, watched an episode of Scrubs and now ranted and raved on the logic of training. But hey, its only 500 words. I can pump that sucked out in a solid 30 minutes if needed. Which is good, as I plan on being under the covers in a hour. Back home again tomorrow for the usual weekend, with the addition of homework. Hey, exams next week and a pretty solid architecture assignment to be finished. At least next week will be a scheduled recover week bike wise. Hard to believe its already December, and I already have this many miles in on a trainer. I miss last winter. I fully did a 3 hours bike path ride on Christmas day while the rest of my family napped before dinner. Not that I won't do similar this year, it'll just be a roller ride.

Turbo rollers?

"Now I know many of you watch our videos by sitting on your turbo rollers and get inspiration"
God, I love you Phil and Paul. I love yelling at the screen when you get some information wrong. For example, I saw Stuey close the gap on Wesserman in Roubaix 2006, these two were still debating how Stuey got across the gap after he won the race. I had a few hours to vent on that one tonight. Luckily, that is done for today, and I have just finished enjoying a spot of Pinot and some wicked pasta. Oh, other than the snow tyres today, one other important purchase. Old man slippers. These puppies are wicked and only ran me $10 plus tax. I may have to buy several. Perhaps even a formal pair to wear with my plaid golf pants. Notice the classy carpet in my room. One level below (or maybe above?) shag on the classy scale. Hope you all are enjoying your "turbo rollers". Just remember, spring is near.


ps - check out this website! Some of the most wicked bike related clothes ever! I'm soooo close to just handing them my credit card.
http://www.opsalsport.com/modules/gallery/t-shirts.html

Official and whatnot

Celebration Belgie styles. Notice the new Stella Glass. Classy.

http://www.canadiancyclist.com
http://www.pedalmag.com

Its official. Team announcement. And apparently I'm the official French to English translator. Busy day off today (school that is). As reported on yesterday. Some more long hours on the trainer, no real surprise in that respect I guess. I have a few mildly entertaining pictures to share as well. Mostly cause I'm pretty excited and have had a little too much coffee this morning so far. The twitch is back. And this current music choice is not helping matters. Damn Thunderstruck.

Some celebratory Vino this morning. While writing the blog and talking to
my baking companion, the one and only Sarah Coney. Whos blog is faltering.

This is the true secret to how to ride inside for hours. Ride until you fall off.

Phil & Paul

These clowns get us through the winter. Cyclists will know exactly who I'm talking about, the rest of you will scratch your heads and wonder what I'm smoking. (The answer is nothing, mom.) Trainer time today. Took the afternoon off school, nothing happening as its the last class, with no exam forth coming. Felt like taking it easy. And by easy I meant ride. And then relax. Watched the 2006 Fleche Wallonne, hence....
word of the day: quack
Paul & Phil's translation: A bonehead move involving swerving your bicycle.
Use it in a sentance: Oh, Asterloa has quacked Bettini. (Asterloa swerved and nearly clipped Bettini).
No school tomorrow, but busy nonetheless. Winter tyres to be installed at 11, gotta get into school by 1 for a math re-test. Apparently myself and the rest of the class did so dismally on the last test we are being giving a chance at a re-test. Not that I failed like a good portion of the class, but I did make a number of bone headed, rushed calculations that left my mark with something to be desired. So I'll take this chance to allow myself to not have to work quite so hard on the exam. Somewhere after that, I may just ride my bike as well. Who knows, I'm just crazy like that. One more big architecture project to go this weekend, and then the infamous exam week. Then freedom. Should be a fun weekend. I may even try to study. We'll see what exam comes on Monday. If its English, I'm going out to the bar instead.

Thoughts on the trainer

I have received many a question and comment regarding the amount of trainer riding going on in my life. Mostly revolving around, how I survive long boring rides inside. To be fair, I didn't used to just hop on and spin out 4 hours +. I as well used to be like most of you, basically ready to throw the damn thing out the window after say 1 hour or so. I've slowly built up over the years, to the mentally unstable individual you see writing before you. Basically, I have developed an ability to basically shut down my brain for hours. This comes in handy in many other situations such as: talking to women (maybe why I stand as so unsuccessful in the long term?) and attending class. Other than my obvious turn something on, aka music, movie, race, tele... I have a few other pointers that help get me through some long hours.
-The first and last hours always suck. Always. The key is to break it down. I go by 10 minute and 1 hour sections.
-Eat regularly. Doesn't really matter much, what ever you feel like. Make it also a reward of some kind. Some like cookies. I mix it up. Anything from fruit, to hot dogs. I like to make it a rule to eat every 45 minutes.
-Drink even more regularly. I go through 2 bottles an hour. Think about it, you are sweating without any true wind. If you are dehydrated when you get off, you will not recover well and therefor the next session will suck more than it should. Plus it gives you a reason to get off and re-fill the bottles every hour. These breaks can be just what you need to keep your head in the game and your mind motivated.
-Set reasonable goals. If you are used to 10 hours a week, don't suddenly jump to 15-20 hours a week on the trainer. Sure fire burn out recipe. We still got a way to go to the real season. Maybe work on 1 long ride a week. Slowly build up as your body adapts.
If all else fails. Try something else. And by that, I mean go for a ski one or two days a week. Go for a run (I can't fully suggest this one wholeheartedly as I hate running) but the basic idea is to mix it up. Some cross training can do wonders for the brain and brake up the monotony of the trainer. I know the skiing is pretty wicked right now.
Oh, and please shower directly after finishing your ride. For all of us.

Disapointing

I think I was expecting (from the warnings from my mother) some kind of snow fall resembling one of the "powder days" I experienced in BC. The kind where you try to open the door, but there is too much snow, so maybe you crawl through a window. Cars don't move, everyone just starts running/walking to the hill. I mean, I did see an ATV/snow mobile thing driving down the road today. But hey, I do live in a hick town. Thats not all that unusual. The weather claims more snow still, but all is calm for the moment with only a light powder fluttering down. I may even be able to drive myself to the grocery store later on. Much needed. Dependant on whether the ol' Civic can make it out the driveway. Potentially no class today. Here's hoping no one can make it in! Otherwise more trainer time to fill out the final week of classes.

First ski

Snow storm coming. So I rushed out for a ski late morning (had to fit in a few hours on the rollers first) with Keir. Strapped on the ol' skate skis and hit the park. I must say, for the first of December, conditions are pretty wild. And should only be getting better for the next bit, with this 20-40cm of snow for cast by tomorrow eve. Dang. That's a lot of powder. Almost wish I was closer to a ski hill to go rip some powder tomorrow. How often can you say ski and fresh powder in the same sentence around here. More like ski and "glare ice". None the less, a good quality 1.5 hour ski with Keir along the parkway and Ridge road. Plus I only ate it once. Stupid Penguin and my insistence on tele turning my way through it. I blame the tourists who keep snow plowing through all the corners. Made a brief stop at Les Saisons for a nice warming cafe on the way home and a stop at the dep for the kid to buy some vino. Silly underager. I picked a sweet bottle of red up at the LCBO on the way home instead. Went quite nicely with my leftover pasta and fresh homemade pizza. I'll leave this informative session off with a glimpse of how I bring style to the cross country world. Picture credit to Giro de Keir. Ignore the jacket. Its all I had around my closet in Ottawa.

Official: winter is here

Yup. You heard it here first. How is this only now official you may ask? Sandy is strapping skis to his feet for the first time of the season. Thats why. Its a sign that I am temporarily giving up on the outdoor riding for at least a few days. First, a couple hours on the rollers, cause we all know the first ski of the season is painful and short. Me an Keir intend to keep it around the 2 hour mark. If we last that long. In other news, according to my mother, some storm of epic proportions is blowing up this way from Toronto. The crazy Toronto folk (wankers) are claiming 20cm of snow AND freezing rain. What gives? And of course, my winter tyres are not being put on until Wednesday. Should be a fun drive home today. For now, the rollers are calling me. In some sort of odd, anti social way. Did I mention I am the prank war king for the weekend? Just ask the girls at wag what was in the box...

lemon water?

Its my new thing. Well, for the past couple weeks anyways. I have my bar fridge next to my desk. Contents: 10 Rickard's Red, 1 Brita water filter jug, 1 container humous, 1 2lbs. bag mini carrots, and 2 containers lemon juice. I'm back on the Belgian program of drinking water like its going out of style. I just now mix in a couple decent squirts of lemon juice in the mix. Refreshing, and gotta have some kind of vitamin content I figure. That along with a few cups of tea and coffee a day is keeping my body running smoothly. I've been having these wicked cravings for chips lately. Usually after my ride while relaxing. Luckily I continue to show my resolve and not buy any while at the grocery store and am mostly too lazy to walk to the convenience store to buy a bag when the craving hits. This is the basis of the humus. I had broccoli to go with the mini carrots, but I've munched my way through that stuff. I'm also all into garlic right now. Garlic as near as I can tell is nature's method of keeping you healthy. Plus its tasty. Another long ride day on the trainer. Some homework. Made a wicked pasta with an olive oil and plum tomato sauce, little tuna, plenty of veggies and garlic. Pretty proud of it actually. This Hollywood script writers thing has finally effected me as well. I watch basically one show each week, Thursday nights - The Office. Turned it on tonight, bam, re-run. Wankers. This has gone too far. I tried to find another decent show to fill up this 1 hour period in my evening plan. Even though I couldn't tell what else was re-runs, there was nothing good. I'm pretty sure we have a baggillion channels too. Instead, I did laundry. Oh, and made some egg wolls. Exciting, I know. At very least, some of you should have a craving for: egg rolls, tea, chips, pasta, or humus.

school, not so much

I'm enjoying this program. Just not the need to attend class lately. I'm really actually hoping exams hurry up and get here so I can be done for a while. One more week of classes after this one finishes, tomorrow. In other news, I have further gone Belgian in my breakfast choices. I bought a box of PC chocolate granola cereal stuff. On sale because its new, or not enough Belgian folks in the country. Either way, tried it out this morning in my yogurt. Pretty good, I must say. It'll be a nice treat for a while. My room is a mess, and I keep putting off cleaning it. Gotta get on that.
In other news, I am now a full fledged nutjob. In case there was any doubt in your minds. Somehow my brain convinced the rest of my body that it would be a good idea to ride outside yesterday. Three hours it cried, no more. Then you can hop back on the trainer to finish the day off (?). Dressed up warmly, but seriously. Can you really dress warmly for a ride when the high is something like -10 plus wind chill? The answer is no. Got to my hour and a half turn around point, and looked down to find that I had flatted my front tubular on my trusty Gerber fixie. Oh, and both my bottles were frozen solid (even in my pockets) after 1 hour. Damn. With it seeming to be a slow leak, I decided my best option (aka option that would not have me getting frostbite trying to peel off a tubular) would be to simple keep stopping every 15 minutes, pump in 30 psi of air and then keep riding along. Little bit of rim riding, but it worked. I had it down to an art. left the valve core open, whipped the pump of of my back pocket, furiously pumped for about 20 seconds and then continued along. The worst part is, this has happened before (though with a clincher) and it always seems like a good idea. I was so cold when I got home, I made some tea, stripped off a few layers and hopped on the trainer for a while to get some sweat going and re-gain feeling in my extremities. The cold takes a lot out of you apparently. I was wasted the rest of the evening. Needless to say, I think I'll be riding the trainer today.

does he dare?

Quick addition to Keir's list of how to survive a winter of training inside. As someone not naturally in love with the trainer, I've always found that if you get one real long ride out of the way early, everything else seems easy. Example: if the longest ride you plan on doing for most of the winter is 3 hours, do a 4 hour ride early on. It will probably suck (you some of the many tips available to minimize said suckage), but when you get on for your normal 2-3 hour jaunts, time will go by a lot quicker. Plus you will mentally know that you could do 4, but you only HAVE to do 3 today. Grab a movie, I watched Th Flying Scotsman last night and would suggest it, and get rolling. Been a super easy day so far today, coffee, breakfast, and some surfing the net (mostly in hopes that the temperatures starts heading towards at least zero). I really want to ride outside for a few hours today. I think I may, as long as the temperature gets a little closer to zero anyways. Plus I gotta go out and get myself some winter tyres today, for the car that is. Check out the sweet Roubaix documentary I've posted below, not bad, as long as you understand French. Looks like I will be following the route of Keir for some testing at the hands of herr Vipond as well. And yes, I realize that he and I seem to have very similar story lines at many points. I need some kind of baseline, its easy to zone 1 rides - but eventually I may have to turn up the suffer knob. Plus its nice to have numbers to say, "yes, you are faster now than before". Or, "what the deuce is wrong with you. You're getting slower." I would hope for the earlier of the 2 options. There is talk from Keir of a "group" trainer ride on Sunday. And by group, I mean us two nutjobs. Not sure if many others, or any one other, are interested. But let one of us know. I may ski also.

Training corner, chez Sandy.

My view. This is mostly what I see for hours. Except during bottle refills.

Pass the trainer time and learn french.

Documentaire sur Paris Roubaix Partie 1
Uploaded by lafouine2229

Documentaire sur Paris Roubaix Partie 2
Uploaded by lafouine2229

Rain turns to snow, and other tails of winter

So my promising rain apparently turned to snow sometime around me falling asleep. But it's warmish again today, weather were I could ride outside if it wasn't for all the slush and snow on the roads. I'm afraid that it becomes slightly sketchy. Though trust me, I have considered it pretty thoroughly. Instead, I'm focusing my energies on downloading some new movies to entertain me for hours. Just got The Flying Scotsman, which I have been meaning to watch for some time now. Perhaps this will be the order of my evening spin. Morning class was a drag this morning, really didn't feel like getting up for drafting, especially with us having to work on computer drafting again today. We all know my general feelings on computers, and it mostly involves my foot in its screen. Got a few hours on the trainer again today, but first some food, rest and perhaps a nap in my class this afternoon. I can't help it. You try staying awake for a 3 hour slide show presentation. Things aren't looking good out there for some of you cyclocross folk, 2 straight cancellations? Life seems to be flying along lately, perhaps I need to develop a non school/cycling life. On a separate note, I think my trainer may be preparing itself to self implode. Either that or I'm a beast cause the flywheel in the back gets so hot after my rides that it is getting on the verge of burning my hand when I touch it. Let the countdown begin.

an ode to indoor riding

Got you. In actuality, I greatly dislike the indoor training. Hate is a strong word. Especially since I still do it. None the less, got a solid 4 hours in today, therefor watched several stages of the 2006 Giro & Hitman. Shower, groceries and now time for some tea and homework. Getting to the time of the year where I do actually have some stuff to do. Either way, I've got a good feeling about this week training wise. Maybe something to do with the fact that it is warm-ish and raining outside. Really don't feel like doing homework right now. Or ever really. Kinda just want to put my legs up and watch a movie. Such is life apparently. Computer is acting kinda funny right now too, issues involving getting the ever important ride data from the SRM onto Cycling Peaks. Stupid technology making my life more complicated. Really should have taken the time for a nap today I think.

tales from the woods

Went on my hike today. Keir bailed, so I romped solo through the woods of the Gatineau parc for just under 5 hours. Not bad eh? At very least I didn't have to ride the trainer for 5 hours. We'll save that for some cold days in Dec/Jan. Think I may ride the trainer for an hour or so tonight though, some of the less used leg muscles got a decent workout today and I'm feeling a little stiff. Just spin ze legs. Got back into Ottawa for a warm dinner, and to find that temperatures are indeed improving, even hear rumours of some rain! With the spring bike nearly ready, just gotta figure a way to attach full fenders, this could be good for me and my sanity. For now, I'll follow the trainer masters "tips to trainer survival/enjoyment" and keep the miles coming. Back in Perth now anyways, so no real option BUT to ride the stupid thing. I'll let dreams of a new season float through my mind. Nothing else much to report on around here, still trying to get to those insightful write ups... I seem to lack time to anything particularly useful on weekends. At least the school semester is almost done. Pretty much into the last 2 weeks of class for me. I'm pumped. Perhaps I'll leave you of some photos, entitled "Sandy gets lost in the woods".

weekend post

Drove in Friday night. Slightly sketchy with my cheepo all season tyres as usual in the snow. Headed out for a night on the town Friday night with some of the boys, good times had by all. The bar had some kinda deal on massive beer cars (like liter cans or something) so we had a few of those. Slept in until just before work today which was nice. Managed to get most of my spring bike assembled, just gotta figure out wheels and a few other parts. Headed out for some Chinese food with the grandparents just previous to this post. Good times as usual with them. Currently watching a very poor Senators game, we are sucking. Just realized I forgot to grab more race movies from the shop today, I better find my little DVD case of bike movies and races before I head back to Perth. Hoping to head out for a hike tomorrow as planned. Looking like it'll be a solo jaunt in the woods, seems no one else agrees with my logic or techniques. No worries. Exciting weekend, I know. Plus I'm tired right now, so I don't think I'll be doing much tonight.

Crankage

So I cracked. 3 solid hours of trainer time yesterday. Blew through the work that had to be done, finished off some more this morning in English, little more to do this weekend I fear. No worries. Still sweating like a madman as I curse out my window at the still falling snow. As optimistic/closed minded as I am, I don't think this stuff is leaving for a while. So, I am giving up on this option and choosing to focus instead on the early melt of the snow in the spring. I'm thinking in February sometime. Ideally right around my birthday. Today will actually be a day off the bike. Home after shop class, could be a slow drive, and then check in with my happening social network. I think there may be some type of party action going down. Maybe drop by if I don't fall asleep. Roller ride tomorrow, cause I'm not nuts like some of the local xc ski folk to be skiing on the thin layer of snow above the concrete. Then the usual Saturday at the shop, dinner with the grandparents, and hopefully some form of long workout on Sunday. Keir and I made plans to go for a long ride outside, but we may have to reconsider. We'll see how crazy the kid is. Cause I'm a man of my word. I just don't intend on being a solo nutjob on the roads. Maybe a long hike... For now, I've got an hour until shop class. Just enough time to make some food and get back to school.

Change of plans

So apparently I have some work today so far, so may be swapping my planned rest day for tomorrow with today's wide. Apparently, without knowing it I might add, I have let a few school things pile up. Not to worry, I have a full 2:45 minutes until the first one is due, and then until tomorrow until I should have the rest done. Nothing like a little added pressure. I think I want to track down some snowshoes this season. From what I can tell, the xc skiing around here may be far from adequate, but with "des raquettes" (I re-freshing my French for this coming road season) I can wander around through the woods and get lost for hours. Plus I think I've found some hiking trails or something. Maybe back country skis too. Maybe win the lottery... Such grand plans. While I'm at at, maybe I'll just move back to my Italian villa on my winery in the Italian Dolomites. But for now, I'll settle for some lunch and nice big bodem of coffee. A man's gotta have his brew (and its too early for a pilsner) with his work. I'm thinking, time dependent, on doing my own weekly "rules of the Euro cyclist" bit here on the blog. Look at stuff like Euro-logic (which I love), traditions in racing, and how to be a hard man. We'll see how this goes, but it could be entertaining and give me something to ponder and work out while riding that bloody trainer. Only a few weeks of school left in this semester. I can't believe I've lasted 1/4 the way through my degree. I guess I lost that bet. I leave you with a picture of my bike. Cause it, along with the plentiful snow out my window was what I saw first thing this morning.

Stevens Vuelta: Record, SRM, Fulrum Racing 5, Pro PLT cockpit.
aka. the tank. I love my tank.

Winter (shudder)

Went from super pumped to get up early for a long day in the saddle to going back to sleep. Nearly in tears. I mean damn, its not even bloody December yet. I know the malls have been dressed up since July sometime... None the less, got my planned day done. And some. Was a little distressed about the idea of a long trainer ride this morning, so decided to head into the shop and get the ol' SRM installed and ready to rock. Took a little longer than expected, but got er' done. Looks hot, but my bike is currently quite the training tank with its current wheels and this new crank. No worries, swap for race wheels and I'll feel like I'm flying come the races. Drove home, changed and set up the trainer here in my room. Forgot one thing though, how much one sweats while riding on the spot for the first time in the season. Seriously, even with the open window, I need a flipping fan or something. Luckily I put some mats down to dampen the noise as I discovered after 4 hours of saddle time (aka one episode of the Office and the 2 disc 2006 Paris-Roubaix) a massive puddle of my sweat. Also a good thing I drank so much water. like 7 bottles in throughout the ride. Seriously pondered leaving school for the winter term as well and moving somewhere warm-ish. At very least snow free. I gotta get the winter trainer bike built asap this weekend. Maybe steal a fan from home. Either way, time to go grab some salmon leftovers from last night and more fluids. Got another 3 hours to do tomorrow, and only some prayers that the snow is gone enough to allow me outside without danger of being run down by some hicks.

snow

Its here. It was predicted on this random collection of my thoughts yesterday. Now I wake up this morning, prepared for a nice long ride, and bam. White stuff, all over everything. This is quite upsetting. Now I have to do my 4-5 hours inside. Its not even December. I better get that fendered winter training bike build asap. I think I'll maybe head into town soon to get the SRM running and pick out some bike race vids to watch.

Important late breaking news announcemnet

Cannonball.


In other news, Sandy is now a part of the 2008 EVA-Devinci cycling team. More to come as I get more info. Just thought I'd post this before some stretching and bed. Too bad, cause there is a James Bond marathon of some kind going on.

winter, she approaches

Some good quality mile lately. 3 hours Monday morning before class, sunny and cold. Then the rain clouds blew in just as I finished. Nice. Cold, but quite nice in the sun if dressed warmly enough (which I was). Went out in the evening and picked up my new SRM. I'm pumped to install this sucker. I finally own this fine piece of German engineering. Now there is just one thing to complete my training library, Power Cranks. I wanna try these suckers out. Looks like a painful time. But hell, no pain, no gain. Snuck out between classes today for a rainy, windy and somewhat chilly 3 hours. Due to the rain, I decided to ride the fixie. I did briefly consider the trainer, but then realized that I would much rather get a little wet than ride in a basement for 3 hours. There will be plenty of that to come. Might as well make use of the little remaining road time. Fun though, fixed gear with some decent wind (head wind for the first hour and change), and plenty of hill. Did I mention how sketch it was descending and climbing the steep grades of the Westport hill? Freaky and hard to control the leg speed on the decent (glad I at least had a front brake to scrub speed) and hard as nails climbing the other side back out of town with some very steep grades and only a single, fixed gear. Grinded it out and felt pretty good. Missed the good weather today apparently though, sun blew in towards the last bit of my ride and is still holding out now. No worries, warm and dry now though. Hopefully another long day tomorrow with 5 or so hours. Considering making the trip into town as well to install the new SRM, but gotta work out my time to get 5 hours ride time in and then the extra driving (lame). Either way, got the iPod charging back up for the ride. I think some laundry is crying my name, and perhaps some more tea. Hope everyone else is still taking advantage of this weather and not pulling a Keir. aka riding the trainer.

Road to Roubaix
Watch this. I dare you to not want to go out and suffer. Got me through a cold (yet sunny) 5 hours in the flats around Ottawa. I'm having some serious cobble cravings. Damn. Maybe I'll watch Roubaix tonight...

Weekend update

No racing to report. Nothing really out of the ordinary. Not to much riding to date, heading out for a nice long-ish spin soon. Worked yesterday, watched the Sens game with some buddies in the evening followed by some original Nintendo/Mario 3 action on a 10ft. projection tele. Yes, you read correctly. The thing measures 10 ft corner to corner. Not only was the game wicked to watch (not because it was good hockey by any means), but you have not lived until you have been able to count the individual pixels in Mario. Oh, and Saturday morning I went were all middle aged baby boomer men go. Lee Valley. Needless to say, dropped some cash on some swanky new tools. I felt manly, yet old and annoyed. I really never want to need reading glasses to see the Lee Valley catalog. Work was productive, even managed to clean my bike and install some new wheels (say hello to Fulcrum Racing 5s) in preparation of the sale of my Power Tap. Picking up an SRM this week. Wicked, I'm pumped. Needless to say, I am now in the Power Tap selling marker. Power Tap SL, Campagnolo (will convert to Shimano with new freehub body if needed), 28 DT Swiss Revolution spokes, on nearly new Mavic Open Pro. Includes wiring harness and soon to be new computer head. Lets say $750, as a deal for you internet wankers. Tell your friends. Through some new bar tape on the old baby too, the white was wearing pretty thin and getting pretty grungy. Went with the extra gel padding of the black Easton for the winter. Little extra cushion and hopefully insulate my aluminum bar from getting my hands soooo cold a little better. Cold, yet sunny today. Spent my morning moving furniture and 340 lbs of washer/dryer so am somewhat excited to dress warmly and hit the road for a few hours. If for now other reason than to not be here at the house were I could be called to get to work at any second. Oh, and gotta go pick up some rollers this afternoon. Busy Sunday, I know. Little dinner tonight, then back off to the wonderful world of Perth. Next project, build back up the spring training bike. Sorry cross bike. Your time is done.

Usual

Nothing much to report here. Watching some movies, and relaxing after a long day. Early shop class, 3 hours on the bike, followed by safety class. On the plus side I get to go out and learn to properly operate a chainsaw and quicksaw. Look up quicksaw on the net, apparently its got some "wicked kickback". Nothing like a 140 lbs. cyclist operating some serious power tools. Ride was good today, cruised the roads for 3 hours. Legs felt pretty decent, got the urge to hammer a few times again (held off) and generally remained pretty happy that the rain held off. One more day of class before the weekend. Pretty much looking forward to it. Gotta buy some more tools I think soon again. Hopefully I can post some this weekend, maybe even some more exciting stuff. Otherwise perhaps I'll have to dig up something cool to post about. Life is really pretty bland this time of year.

Belgian weather

I like Wednesdays. No class, so even with this current shortage of daylight, I can take my time in the mornings, have a nice breakfast and coffee, maybe sleep in a little, and still fit in 5 or so hours on the bike. That basically sums up my day. Turned off my alarm, got that key extra 30-45 minutes under the covers, made myself my usual morning concoction of muselli & cereal with yogurt, some toast and a nice big bodem of Kicking Horse coffee. Relaxed with the internet for a bit, checking on the world (actually mostly my Facebook and cycling news) and then proceeded to get changed and ready. Pretty warm again today, though the dark clouds and high winds didn't help matters. No worries, basic Belgian day. 5 hours, rain or shine. So I dressed up nice and warm, plugged in the ipod and hit the road. Some serious headwind action for the first 2.5 or 3 hours plus some rain and what felt like hail off and on. Body felt good. Nothing like a long ride to clear the head and to feel good about yourself and what you do. As long as what you do is ride your bike. Or at very least enjoy such an activity. Got home, and made an omelet to fill the stomach and some tea to warm my core back up. Time for some pasta for dinner with some fish, some lounging time in front of the tele, and hopefully a nice early-ish bed time. Such is the life. Back to Ottawa for the weekend again soon, but no cross again this weekend for me. I'm pretty sure my season is wrapped up now. Hope everyone is enjoying what could possibly the last of the warm weather for some time. The weather on my homepage has informed me that snow is possible later this week. Not liking that much. Wankers.

Back to life

Early morning class today, followed by a glorious 3 hour ride through the quiet roads around here. Apparently like 10 degrees, and I believe it. Pretty upset that I had to spend the afternoon sitting in a classroom for 3 hours. Had to hand in a project. On the plus side got my last big one back (20% of my mark) and absolutely owned it. 92% styles. Thats how I roll. I figure this should allow me to not attend this class the next time (if there is a next time) it is this nice out. Logical, no? Got home, relaxed by the computer (recovery time is just as important as training time!) and then returned my houses empty beer bottles. Actually, more appropriately, traded in our empties for a new full case. Needless to say, I enjoyed a nice cold brew with my sloppy joes and potato casserole thing tonight. Now, tea or lemon water with my cake? Such decisions could very well effect the quality of my evening. I'm feeling a movie night. Stick the legs up and celebrate the fact that I have no pressing homework. Supposed to be like 12 out tomorrow too, I'm feeling long ride. Also feel like falling asleep early like the true cycling, party animal I am. But back onto the road of life, slowly meandering down towards christmas, and a new race season...
Pamplemousse. (What a wonderful word. I want one.)

Weekend update

Day 2 of racing went somewhat better for me mechanical wise. Didn't feel great, plus the awesome 3 hour ride I did with Nick's sis Catherine Vipond at 7am that morning probably didn't help a huge amount. Actually, I think it did, and will help a lot in the long run. For the most part, I had a good start (from back row to 15th or so) but was just simply riding like a little old lady off her medication. I was overshooting corners, undershooting corners, and generally riding like someone who had never handled a corner before. Took me several laps to get comfortable. Finally settled into a grove, mashing my big ol' 42x26 up the steep, long climbs 16 times during the race. Started to blow pretty good with 2 laps to go to. Lost the wheel I was on, but held of the dude behind me. I was seriously shattered when I finished. Made the money though. Two spots out of decent cash, but in the money none the less. Either way, good training day. Good fun weekend. Headed back to Nick's parents place, where a smokin' good meal was waiting for us before we hit the road. Huge thanks out to them for putting me up and setting us up with food, gear and general support. Also thanks to Nick's buddy Matt for supplying me with his bike/Nick's spare on day one as an impromptu pit bike. Never done a cross bike change. But I think its about time to end my short cross campaign. Time to fully focus on next season and laying down that foundation. Hell, I even remembered my trainer this time! Spent about an hour cruising Perth on the fixie today, snapping pictures of old houses for an architecture assignment, and getting my stitches out at the hospital. I'm pretty sure the nurse working on me was about 80 and mostly blind. The sound of the woman dry heaving up a bloody seal next to me didn't help matters. Needless to say I was glad to get out of there. Chuckling at the fact that the nurse told me to "keep talking it easy for a few days", I proceed to remount my bike and ride home (irony?). I didn't have the heart to tell her what I do and did. Burned a copy of "Off Road to Athens" from the Vipond residence, so think I may watch that to get me pumped for the week of training this afternoon, before really settling down on this architecture assignment. Time to get some food in me too. Here's to decent training weather this week!

Toronto

I write this from casa Vipond in the dirty 'Shwa. Things did not quite go well today in the first of the ouble header weekend. Wicked course, pumped to race, last line call up with poor Nick Vipond. But no worries, its all for fun. Decent start considering, basically went a little shy until the first corner when some douche cut me off. Then elbows came out Belgian styles. Fought good and hard up into the top 10 or 15 apparently. Second lap, my bb completely seized in my frame. Just after the pits. Ran halfway around the course back to the pits. Changed for Nick's spare, discovered his seat height is a solid 2 inches higher than mine, rode 2 laps on this gigantor SRAM bike until my back cried out no more. Pitted again to get the seat lowered. Got lapped during this, and then pulled. 3 laps to go. Unimpressed with my day, I hit the beer tent to watch the rest. Either way, thats cross racing. No worries. Getting to the time of the season where I think I need to pull the plug on racing soon. Get back focused for next season. One more race to go, the one I am still not looking forward to. Gotta run up that bloody ski hill again. Its gonna hurt and suck. But I'm ready. Kinda wish I brought my mullet wig. My current "moulet" is just not big enough. Time to eat. Sandy out.

Its on

I'm pumped to race and ride beyond belief right now. I should be making an appearance at the Centennial Park UCI cross races this weekend. Time to turn on some after burners, not crash and pull out some good races. Another couple of decent hours on the road today. Cold though. Seriously cold out. Back into Ottawa tomorrow, ride with Keir in the AM, into the shop to prep my bike and make sure nothing is too damaged from last weekend's festivities. Final knee check. Then into the car with Nick, Jenny, & Ridely. Not super pumped about riding backseat with a cat (see cat allergies and puffy eyes), but I can deal. Not that I don't like cats in general, just don't like their allergic effects on me. Felt pretty good on the ride today, other than being a little cold. Shoulder and wrists appear to be running at 100%, knee feels ok. Not feeling broken at least. Gotta get myself packed, just did some laundry. Cook up a nice salmon dinner. Perhaps get started on some homework action. Usual. For now, I got stuff to take care of. We'll see how weekend updates go from the Vipond residence in Oshawa.

The knee, it heals

4 hours on the bike today. Ridiculously easy, even by my easy Euro standards. Knee held up, even with the cold. Actually really cold today, bundled up with some serious layer action. On the plus side, bandages off. Things look to be healing nicely. Talked to boss man, looks like I should be good to go for a weekend of UCI cross race action. Do one more long-ish ride tomorrow to see for sure. More news to come in the coming days regarding Sandy's plans for next season. Some details are beginning to work themselves out. Stay tuned on that end. For now, I'm tired, full of burritos and try to focus on knee healing and getting back to 100% for a long winter on cold training. Maybe eventually I'll actually remember to bring a trainer and some rollers out here. Stupid dark at 5 o'clock deal.

Slowly loosing my mind

I just want to race. Actually right now, I just simply want to ride. The bandages will come off in a few minutes for the inspection. But screw it, I'm riding today. Managed to pass the non school time yesterday by watching bike races on Cycling.tv and then heading out to the pub with a bunch of school mates/Toronto fans to watch the game. Glorious evening for Sandy and the one other Sens fan is all I can say. I may have even broken into song. Feeling pretty good this morning, slept in a little, my shoulder and wrists are feeling much better. Knee feels flexible minus all the bandages. Needless to say I want to race. Thinking, after looking at the course and prize purse for this weekend, that I really do want to race the UCI double header in Toronto this weekend. Gotta see how Vince feels about being down another employee for the weekend first. And get my bike back into shape, but I have the itch to suffer. Also, I need some cross movies to get me rockin again. I can't find any of my copies. So if any of you internet folk have a copy to lend of Transition (or the new Transition 2) or Pure Sweet Hell.... Ouch, according to the weather network it is still below zero and "snow" in Perth right now. Though I see no snow. Maybe I'll procrastinate a little longer before the ride. Wow, my virus program thing has just warned me that Internet Explorer is attempting to access the internet. I love Windows. I will now leave you with some pictures of Sandy en action in Kingston...

Early on. Chasing back into the race. And sorry, I remember very little.

Chasing hard with one of the cheering sections in the background.

Time for some 180 degree off-camber turns! Wicked course! How bout' those socks?

Bombin' down. Caught Vipond, check. Caught Vince, check. Slap Vince on the ass, check.

Assessing injuries and answering questions regarding my current state of mind. Ironic,
with the mental health institute directly behind the race.

Bored

Wrists are basically good, shoulder is still super sore and stiff, and the knee feels surprisingly decent. Unless I bend it much. Needless to say, I am heeding some wise advice and letting it heal a bit before I get back on the bike. On the other hand, this has left me with a decent amount of newly acquired free time and a lack of real mobility. Can you say movies? To be honest, I think I'm nearing the cracking point. Not sure if I'll be able to survive 3 hours of Architectural conservations without a ride in my legs. I'm going stir crazy. My brain is trying to convince me that 1-2 hour super easy ride won't hurt. My knee doesn't want to blow out any stitches, especially considering I would like to race again next weekend. Even considering the Toronto UCI double header. Assuming Vince can man the shop solo. Maybe I'll talk to him later. I'll also have to do some serious work to the cross bike I think to get it back to ridable/race able shape. Though to be fair, it didn't implode at Kingston... All I know is I better be ride ready tomorrow, I have no idea what I'd do with a whole day in Perth without riding or class. I have no doubt I'll crack by tomorrow. Maybe I'll peel off the bandages and take a look. Pretty bland out today otherwise, at least its not raining as predicted yet. Even a little sunny. Sandy out.

Stiff, sore and sewn up

Interesting weekend. Friday had me not in the greatest of moods, so went out with good ol' Goeff who was visiting from N.S. and his lady Kelly. Ended up out a little late, and then got kicked out of my house at 7:30 am so some dude could varnish my mom's new hardwood floors. Being perhaps still slightly confused and intoxicated at this point, I figured I would make use of this time to sober up and clear my head with a cross ride until work at 10. Good times. Fully could not feel my feet by the time work came around at 10. A few dozen coffee's got me through the day and then, you guessed it - off for more drinking. Worked the wine a food show for Sante restaurant, cooking up lamb and chicken and generally trading food to the booze booth's for booze. Perhaps I'll write a report on the wine I sampled for my wine appreciation class next semester. We had a wicked evening at the show, went out to watch the rest of the Sens game after and then decided it would be a good idea to hit the bars. Fun times until good old Jenny pulled up to my house at 7am to head to Kingston for the cross race. Luckily, I staved off the hangover with some coffee. Got on my bike to do some pre-riding action, to find possibly the coolest cross course I have ever ridden! Huge shout out to Bob Woods for putting this course together. Super tech, tons of corners, short climbs, run ups... Needless to say I was super pumped to race. So pumped that I forgot to eat that day. Woops. Watched the first race and found that my bottom bracket had imploded and seemed no longer attached to my frame. Luckily I live by, if you don't think about it nothing bad will happen. Bb was fine-ish. Got the start of my life looking to bust the race apart early and not get caught behind people of the many techy sections, only to wipe out spectacularly solo about 3 minutes into the race. Off the front of pack, I flew into a loose gravel corner with wayyyy to much speed and ate it hard. It has been described as "ass over teakettle" and my favourite "a cloud of smoke and argyle". Somehow managed to not get run over by the other 100 riders while lying the middle of the road. Got up eventually, and Jenny came over the save me. To be fair I was a little out of it, and apprently began mumbling about quitting and then "just wanna ride" and then told her I was going to the car. Fixed the bike a bit, and then started riding. Next thing I know, I'm back on course and flying. Don't know what was going on in my mind, but people started cheering and yelling for "the crazy dude covered in blood". Next thing I know, I catch Vipond, catch Vince and I feel awesome. Other then the fact that I can't move my shoulder, can't shift due to serious wrist and thumb pain the the large blood loss coming from my knee. It was just one of those mentally on days. To prove how good I was feeling I managed to go from 6 minutes down on the pack to 14th place over the course of the hour. After finishing realized how much I hurt and Nick got even with me for wupping him by giving me some liquid from hell (I can only assume he stuck gasoline in his first aid kit) to clean my wounds out with. Went to Wendy's, stole some napkins to try and control my bleeding and then hit the road home. Got home, more cleaning of the wounds and then the discovery that my knee was both still bleeding and very much wide open. Told my mom to go lie down (afraid of blood) and got a ride from my dad to the emerg. 3 hours later, came out with 4 stitches in my right knee and enough hospital supplies to last me for a while. Good news is: new battle scars for the ladies, I can mostly move my shoulder again, the back pain has subsided, and my wrists are mostly mobile. Maybe a few days off the bike I'm told. Again, thanks to Bob for the wicked cross race (I know you too look forward to what Sandy will do next... especially with my nemesis Almonte next weekend!) and to all the crazy fans at the race who all happen to now know Sandy, that crazy dude leaning blood marks all over the course and barriers.

Major: Heritage Carpentry, Minor: Wine & Culture

Seriously. Apparently I need to find myself an online, general elective course for next semester. I looked through the list, there is everything from Greek Mythology to Modern Literature. I have now narrowed my choices to 2: Healthy Lifestyle or Wine, Food & Culture. I can't believe it either. On one hand, I could quickly score 100% in Healthy Lifestyle as the course is based on stuff I already do, aka monitor healthy eating, complete training plan and log, and keeping a healthy journal. Basically I could hand in everything before the course starts and still get 100%. On the other hand, I could learn about wine. Cause we all know how cultured I am already, plus I do enjoy good food. I would actually learn something too. So far I'm leaning towards wine tasting, especially when we consider the fact that I can then point out to people that I will have my diploma in Carpentry, but with a minor in Wine. Wicked. I just need to find out how to register, stupid internet. Otherwise pretty bland day. Windy again, threatening to rain, and I'm stuck inside studying for a safety mid-term this afternoon instead of going out riding. Have to ride after the test. On the plus side, my tool box is coming along nicely in shop and I'm even complicating things for myself now adding in dividers and whatnots. Maybe I'll make myself a wine rack next...

I'm a winner

Pub night last night for the carpenters. Cheep beer, nachos and wings. Put those carpenters to shame with the amount of food I consumed compared to the rest of them. Plus scored a bunch of raffle tickets, and won. A lot. I had 7 tickets, 4 of which won. A few others won too, but I cleaned house. Books, gift certificates, candy and this wicked little wooden hand carved box. Luckily for me, cause I was on a roll (both in winnings and beer consumption) the bar closed at 12. Got up this morning to a wicked fall day. Seriously like 14 degrees and sunny out. Windy, but super nice. So I rode to Kingston. 6.5 hours, 150 something kilometers, and one seriously wicked day. Stopped in at the Cinnamon bun place for an icing covered goodie and a doppio espresso. Got home a little late (dusk) but pretty happy with the day. Apparently its almost deer hunting season too. Asked my country boy roommate, and I can see the deer are starting to get cocky around here. Not sure if they're mocking the geese and ducks (its open season on those suckers) or just teasing all the local hunters. Either way, I've decided that they are actually evil geniuses. Either way, in about 2 weeks I should be seeing a lot less of them, if they are smart they will get back to hiding, if dumb they will be strapped to some large man's pickup truck. Crazy prancing wannabe reindeer. I fully almost hit one too. Pranced right across the road in front of me. Back to class to tomorrow and then back to Ottawa Friday. Wicked. I think my salmon is done. And time to hide from trick or treaters cause we didn't by any candy...

Checks it

Cyclingnews - interviews Van V
Cyclingnews reports to you what I already know. My boy (loosely translated into "teammate") is kinda a big deal. I'm referred to in the article. Look for "Canada". I therefore must be kinda a big deal, by association. Its a celebration.

Attention: Due to increased cycling activity in the area, Sandy may not be available for comment. Thank you.

So it is fully cold out. 4 hours out riding in the prime of warmth, and I was still bundled up. Crisp, chilly, the kind of weather where you need to eat those extra calories to stave off the deep empty stomach feeling. Luckily I discovered a wicked sweet cinnamon bun shop on my route that allowed me to add in those extra calories to my nutella sandwiches. Pretty windy out too. I think I need to put on some winter fat soon. Even the local cows are developing some thicker coverings. Could be a tough mission. I think I'll try to make a good attempt at the Gonq Halloween pub night tonight. I mean: cheep beer, and half price nachos & wings. This combination should allow me to add some pounds. Yes, I realize it will not work. Not sure of plans the rest of the week, nice long ride day tomorrow. Class and riding Thursday and Friday. Back to Ottawa Friday. Fellow Echelon brother Geoff will be back in Ottawa visiting me and maybe his girl friend. So ideally some beers with him Friday. Maybe some riding with him too. All in all, should be quality times. I wonder if I could move these quality times to a warmer climate like any clear thinking cyclist should. Where is my winter training local? Jan goes to Africa, Shawn goes to Australia, hell - I'd settle for a few months in Mallorca! Now accepting donations in the form of money and/or plane tickets. We thank you for your contributions towards a Sandy-free winter.

It gets dark early.

Seriously early. Like 6ish. That sucks. Plus it was cold out today. Class for the day, ride after. Time to get some rollers, or at very least bring the trainer out. Managed to squeeze out 2.5 hours after class anyways. Training starts now, and I need miles. Try to squeeze out a 4 or so hour day tomorrow, Halloween pub night, then a real good long day Wednesday. Not much else to report. Over and out.
ps - I hate math class with a bleeding passion.

Weekend done.

Not much to report. Got out for a few nice easy rides on the cross bike. Moved some more furniture and appliances. Found myself a new project to occupy me for the next while, and have decided its business time. Time to start ramping up the miles for next season. Originally planned on carting the trainer up here, but forgot. So I'll not be riding quite as much as hoped. But will be making that extra effort to get off facebook and the stupid internet in general and go ride. So, think I'll make the most of this last "relaxed" evening for a while and watch a movie. To answer a question straight out that I seem to be asked quite often lately: yes, I will be back cross'in it up soon. Thinking maybe this weekend. Not sure if I really want to drive to Kingston/Quebec provincials yet though. I'll do some pondering. But yes, Sandy will be back. And with some new smoking hot argyle socks. Just wait. These suckers are classy AND tall. Decision time comes dawning soon, hopefully be able to provide you folks with more details on that soon. But I gotta figure out whether Belgium will work ($$$ wise) for me next season, or if Sandy will be rocking it out back here in Canada and the US. Hopefully some other travel too... For now, no worries. I have Spiderman 3 on my computer, and intend to enjoy it.

weeekend

Not a bad day yesterday overall. Though I still find myself in not the greatest mood. Snuck out for a few hours in some glorious fall weather on the bike yesterday between classes. Learned to set up scaffolding. Generally a write off as a day, nothing really cool to report. Scaffolding is cool, but Darren would let us test out the pulley system by hoisting me up. Made us use some inanimate block of concrete. Woke up this morning to some serious fog. Like can't see my car parked in front of the house from my second story window thick. Cool. Back to town today, Neil and Anna's 2nd annual Halloween partay tonight. I think I've slacked on the costume front wayyyy to long and am now screwed. Work Saturday, and Fortune on Sunday. Really upset about my mood being kinda bummed out. I like happy Sandy. Hopefully shop class will allow me to vent anything by hitting stuff with a hammer and operating some heavy machinery. I have also decided that I really don't care that much about Halloween, some people love getting costumed up, some love candy. I can't say I'm that huge a fan of either really. Maybe thats what this is about. Posts may again be somewhat irregular for the weekend. Perhaps I'll see some of you this weekend. Otherwise, don't do anything Sandy wouldn't do. Or if you do, let me know and invite me along. I like new things.

The guinea pig goes extreme

Made the trek into Ottawa yesterday for today's doc appointment to check in on my asthma issues. Finished watching "The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou" on Friday night with Sarah. What an awesome movie, been a while since I watched it. I fully suggest it to any and all of you wankers. So good that I even grabbed a copy of the soundtrack today between ride and doc's. Pretty awesome cool soundtrack. Perfect length to listen to on the way back to Perth too. Managed to even sleep in this morning, first time in god knows how long. Stayed comfy in bed until like 9:30! Got up for the paper, some breakie, and of course a nice strong Bialetti and then the ride. Decided to take cue from St-John and head out for an extreme cross adventure. Stopped by the shop on the way for some bars and friendly conversation. Been sporting this neck scarf thing too for the last while too, seems to help with the asthma coughing and keeps my neck warm and sickness free. Anyways, hit the bike paths up all the way to the park and into it until I found my first trails. Hit up 5, 25, 15 up to Kingsmere, cut up to trail 1 (up Penguin) and rode out to the Mckinstry Fire tower and then turned around and went home. Somewhere between 4-5 hours (closer to 5 methinks) of rocky, slippery, rolling, jungle cross. Wicked time. Beautiful day in the end too. Plenty of sun. On the other hand, apparently my single 42 tooth front ring is not ideal for climbing, but I'll call it a "muscle tension" or "power" workout. Got home with a bit to spare before heading to see doc, so headed out for a little shopping: got some swanky argyle socks, a sweet scarf (more everyday than cycling scarf) and the aformentioned soundtrack. Plus the latest CycleSport mag I've been craving soooo bad. Got to the doc's and have now been made into the office pet project, or guinea pig as my mother calls it. Basically he wants to help me get to an "even field" asthma wise, which I'm down with, so has put me on this "pilot project" where for the next month and through the winter I will record my lung capacities a lot and record them on this cool online journal which will then make me fancy graphs. Other than graphs, this little German lung capacity thingy he gave me, will allow me to measure lung capacity before and after rides and in different conditions to better allow him to prescribe me the best medicine. Pretty cool I'd say. At very least should be fun for me. Now, a few more classes before back home for another rockin weekend. I think some tea and CycleSport is in order. Maybe some Life Aquatic muzak....

Rain and essays.

Rain, cold and generally miserable day today. No ride so far as again my day has been full with writing bloody essays (which apparently I'm pretty decent at) and a Drafting midterm. Pretty sure the midterm went quite well. Even with me arriving late. Basically, realized I was running late, grabbed my stuff, then realized I could not find my keys. Not a huge deal, I ride my bike to school, but unfortunate and worrisome nonetheless. Searched for a while, realized that I was now late, got soaked on the way to class cause my raincoat was in the car (missing keys...), ripped through my test and drawings, and got home to finish up my huge arse essay for Architecture. Found the keys by the way. Apparently I put them through the wash. Yes, I am that smart. They're all good though. Handed in my huge arse essay, got my last huge arse essay back (86%!) and generally dozed off. Not really. Now, time to get my stuff together (cleaned the room too, as it was quite the disaster area) and hit the road for Ottawa. Oh, got the bar fridge up and running finally and the Brita water filter in it. No more chlorinated tap water for this wanker! Oh, I've had a few coffees today now, so am somewhat jittery. Time to get back to the tasks at hand, and by that I mean stop updating you cyber fools.

back

Sandy is back online. Good weekend with not too much riding. I did however tame and ride a wild horse. His name is Arthur and he is roughly the size of an elephant. He thinks I'm the apple man as I greeted him with apples. Spent a good deal of time working on a bleeding architecture essay. Needless to say, I can write an essay. I churn them out like textiles from china. Gonna read it over today to see if it actually makes sense. Apparently this counts for 20% of my final grade. Luckily I have a few large projects going on currently. So needless to say, this may not be a great week "riding" wise. Back into O-dot tonight. Gotta see the Doc again for the asthma check up tomorrow, and maybe I can find some work to makes some cash monies. Otherwise I will be riding my bike slash hanging out at the Cyclery. For now, I should probably make an attempt to make it to drafting on time, as I believe I have a mid-term exam now. This does not help with my "happiness is priority" lifestyle, as exams don't make me happy. But passing my courses kinda does. I think I want to start using more random cliche sayings here on the blog. Make you scratch your heads and think more. For now, its too early in the morning. And I have to go write a test. Like fish in a barrel.

Morning rant

So here I sit, back at home as English for Morons got called early. Again. Not that I'm complaining. We ran out of time after getting our "email" assignment explained to us (we have to email the teacher, she will reply, and then we reply back). Nothing complicated like attachments or forwarding. And I get graded on this. Oh, we also went through a slideshow presentation on "how email works". I kid you not, this was the title on the first slide. I was pretty close to getting up and leaving. But, in an attempt to improve attendance, we now have grammar quizzes at the end (actually at the middle, cause we always get let out early) which count for nothing but attendance marks. I circle random answers and "practice" my grammar skillz, and then receive a mark for attending the class. Fun stuff. We even got assigned our next assignment, due in a few weeks: oral presentation. Ten minutes in front of the class, on ANY topic we chose. Apparently I can cook in front of the class, one dude wants to give someone a tattoo... I'm going to do a secret scientific study to gain extra marks on my quiz. It stated (true or false): "Listening takes more energy than a running race". I answered false. I was wrong. I tried to argue, she is stubborn. Luckily I am more stubborn, thanks to my mother for the genetics. Basically I intend to bring my heart rate monitor to the next few classes, and wear it for my next few rides and compare average heart rate and calories burned. She will rue the day the docked me that mark! Plus it will make me attend the class. I think I'll make a slideshow with graphs for extra irony.
On a side note, if anyone hasn't heard this tune yet checks it out. I heard a while ago on CBC Radio 3, and found it.
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=77509698
Have a good weekend. And if you are in school. I'm sorry for you having to read about what I did in school while you undoubtedly stress over something real. Like algebra. If it makes you feel better, at least your course stimulates you. I got shop for that. And homemade science fair projects. Stay tuned for the results of Listening vs. Cycling: An Energy Comparison.

More class cancellations and therefore more ride time

Sandy's Week Totals For the week:
Class time - 8 hours (plus 5 more tomorrow)
Ride time - 14 hours
Needless to say, I am quite content with my week. Yet somehow still looking forward to the weekend so much. 1 more day of "class". And by class I mean English as an 12th language and shop. Tough, I know. But no time for a ride. Apparently my instructor from math, who also happens to be my Safety teacher, has not shown up all week to school. Hence my lack of attendance today in safety. Hence anyone's attendance. So instead got home at the lovely hour of 11am and proceed to have the coffee and breakfast I slept through in the morning before shop. I knew it was a little bright out when I woke up... Got some laundry done, ironed a shirt. Yes, I am fully domesticated now. Then, you guessed it - hit the road. Saddled up and decided to try out a new route. So rode to Calabogie and back. First stretch is a little busy traffic wise, but the middle 4 hours of the ride was wicked. Flat to Lanark, gentle rollers, steep rollers and finally some long rollers. Turn around and do it all over again in reverse home. Couple of serious pitches, but mostly nice steady gradients. Couple of climbs more than a km in length too. Felt good to do a few extended climbs. Quick stop to restock the ride food supplies and water and that was it. 5 hours and 130 some odd kms later, its dinner. Leftover scalloped potatoes and meat loaf. Time for some relaxation now followed by a very sound sleep I feel. Back to Ottawa tomorrow. No race this weekend. Heading up to the areal park at Fortune instead. Should be a good weekend. Posting may vary.
Good luck to those racing cross Nat's this weekend. Try for some repeats and perhaps a few new jerseys.

$$

Car battery died. Forked over some cash monies to Canadian Tire for a new one. Ouch. Plus, this cut into my ride time for the day. Burn. Still got 3.5 hours in. Felt pretty good, and the weather was pretty good for mid October. Started out really nice, but then the clouds rolled in and brought some wind. But hey, I had a vest and some gloves so no worries. Weather is looking somewhat iffy for the next few days. Luckily I've had some decent training to date this week so won't feel terrible about missing a day. I'm even going to go so far as to start my homework tonight. Well before most of it is due. Keep in mind I will try. No guaranties. But to be fair, my weekend is filling up quickly with much more entertaining options than homework. Plus I don't want to be screwed by a bunch of homework all at once. Important question wise, what for dinner? I know I want some tea, but I gotta start cooking soon. I think I'm feeling meatloaf. Maybe with some scalloped potatoes. I feel some stretching tonight too. Weekend is almost here...

wing night

Tuesday night is wing night at O'Reilly's here in Perth. Cheep wings, good beer and live music. Needless to say, I have participated and attempted to improve my social status from "that guy who rides his bike." Other wise, good day in life. Managed to get 3 hours riding in plus some grocery shopping in. So it was a productive day. Day of tomorrow. Gotta check the car (it was giving me some worries today) to see if I will a) be doing a real nice long ride, or, b) heading into Ottawa to get the car checked out and a shorter ride. Here's hoping for a good clean start for the ol' Civic tomorrow! Really looking forward to the weekend today. Even with the mid-week day off, it seems to just make me crave the real weekend that much more. None the less, I'm off to bed cause its late and my roommates bought me a few beers. Gotta sleep that off pre long ride tomorrow.

class cancellations and an impromtu sprint work out

Math was canceled. Glorious day. Yet at the same time unfortunate, as out of 7 weeks of school we have now had 3 classes (out of a possible 7) and of those 3, we only accomplished anything in 1 (the other 2 involved us talking and waiting for our workbooks to be shipped to the school). Needless to say, although fun to miss math, we are ridiculously behind and most likely screwed when it comes time for a test or something like say, an exam. I predict for class next week, we will be again handed out 7 bagillion pages of worksheets and told to work on them and learn. This works in theory, until you don't understand how to do something and it can not be explained. Pretty sure, with this kind of ammo there is no way the school can fail me though. Other wise a tame day. Haircut and some other errands in the morning. Had to get the now overgrown Euro-mullet trimmed up to go with the suit for the weekend. Few groceries to be done tomorrow now, and I should be set for the week. On the plus side got out for a nice 3.5 hours on the bike instead of math. Cruised the sweet roads until after dusk (woops). Some good climbs, and the aforementioned impromptu sprint workout. The dog caught me by surprise the first time, but the second time I saw him so slipped up into the 53x11 and played match sprint with him. Wanker. Pedaled along a-la track match sprint, and waited for Lassie to make his move and then gunned it. In his defense, he lasted much longer than I expected, but got wupped none the less. Robbie Mac races horses, I out gun large dogs. What. Got a little carried away trying to make the ride go 3.5 hours instead of the planned 3, and got caught out a little. But made it home fine. May have found some rollers, though if anyone local has any there are wanting to get rid of; let me know!, which will be nice. Be able to keep riding past 6:30 and still technically not be riding the "trainer". Easy way to add on an extra hour or so to my later day rides and not freeze in the rain on other days. None the less, always nice to end a day with a nice ride. Time to get used to starting some days with a ride too I suppose. Even got a check in the mail today for my bursary from school. How they got this address, I will never know. On the other hand, though I have this check burning a hole in my pocket, I do believe it is supposed to go to my mother as it is to pay for school. Unless she is reading this and feeling generous. Thats a hint. I'll give you until the weekend to claim it mom.