British Blokes, Fried Chicken, and Karoke

It was quite a weekend for us! Friday Sean ran into 3 British boys cycling from New York to Miami. They stopped at the shop for a few repairs and were staying over in the Boro due to Fay's rain. We invited them over for dinner and had a great time learning about their adventures. They had a hardy appetite and I know it was hospitality they enjoyed after camping for weeks on end and riding. Saturday teammates Jim and Chris came down for the Nestor Cup road race. They sweep the race, as usual and had a good time preparing for the SC State Road race, in which the team plans to defend their title, and the Atlanta Pro 100K taking place over Labor Day weekend. I was able to race in the B's, but felt the heat and humidity drain my legs and energy. I was able to cut off the course and feed the guys during their race. The little gas station in the town of Rocky Ford where the race was held had some fabulous smelling fried chicken for brunch and a karaoke machine. I think we'll be heading there on our next Saturday night out. We'll leave the spandex at home though and put on the boots! A great weekend in the Boro! Off to Clemson/GVL next weekend for the US Pro races, the P3 Challenge, and great times with friends.

The last of summer break

The weekend proved to be a busy one with friends Jennifer, Terry, and Scott staying over on their return from Ski Nationals in West Palm Beach. We were thankful we had air conditioning since the humidity kicked up. Thanks to Abby for a great fondue party Saturday night! Sunday was my last day of freedom from the chains of academia. I had great plans of reading some journal articles and preparing for class; however, found myself on a long road ride in the heat that required an afternoon nap and spending a lazy evening on the couch. Back to work on Monday...

The little things in life...

We have been in the 'boro for almost a week now. Our adjustment would have been more comfortable had our air conditioning worked. Yes, we have been without air conditioning for 4 days! When this happens everything else in life falls apart. Friends, Jennifer and Terry stayed a night on the way to Ski Nationals in Florida, I had to dress up for work everyday sweating, and poor Sean was stuck at home suffering in the heat. You realize when the dogs are panting, it's miserable! Although we would have liked to argue with each other about this, it was simply too HOT!. He broke down and bought a window unit that gave us some relief at night in the bedroom. With the new air system completed yesterday afternoon, I was able to ride my bike today, unpack after 2 months on the road, and wash clothes. Life can return to normal.

Double Bakery Ride

I had a great time today riding the Double Bakery route. Don't think our priorities were not in order, it doesn't mean double climbing, but double the bakery stops. Which include Flat Rock and Saluda. Caroline conveniently used her pockets to carry some fresh bread down the mountain. So Euro! Sean rode with Paul and Rodney from Paris Mtn for a longer route. What a beautiful day!

Good Times

Thanks to the girls for coming to dinner after the TT was canceled. We had a great time and enjoyed fab food at Chicora Alley in Greenville.

A Leaning Tower of Chocolate

Although Danna and Caroline have tried to nurture my baking skills, a lot is to be desired. The good news is chocolate taste good regardless of appearances. The birthday girls didn't complain!

Maybe Sean is a Pro After All...

Sean brought home $700 from his race weekend in Chicago. He had a few top twenty places and a $200 prime. He raced with former teammates from Cleveland, OH and they all split their winnings. Whehew!

Golf Anyone?

I've had a good time playing a few rounds of golf with my folks. A lot has changed since I played seriously, including club technology. I have found a new love...the Taylor Made Burner. I will tout my 7 over par on the front nine this afternoon for an admirable 43. Don't ask about the back!

Our Return

It's been almost a week since the end of our road trip. We are well rested and enjoying the finer things in life like running water, showers, and flush toilets. We have had a few thoughts, or reflections from the trip. They are as follows:

• Gas is cheaper in the Midwest due to cleaner ethanol infused petrol; however, makes the price of food increase so a wash really, but you feel better fueling up.
  
• Coffee is a necessity in the morning!
• You can only eat so much lunch meat and PBJ's.
• If you hear critters (like mountain lions or bears) outside your tent, engaging the car alarm is not the appropriate response and certainly not a good defense.
• When the cross winds are over 60 mph driving through the great plains with 4 bikes on the car, you should pull over and drive another day.
• Wash your bike clothes regularly after rides. It's not the uncomfortableness of wearing them multiple times, but the odor that creeps in your car and never leaves.
• Don't think you can sleep on anything other than a thermarest! The name brand means something!
• Check and make sure you have rain gear before the storm unloads on your tent.
• Always carry wet wipes when traveling.
• Never underestimate the value of a shower.
• Three weeks is too long to spend with one person in tiny spaces, i.e. car and tent. Especially when this person is your spouse.