Mile 0

We set out Friday on our road trip excursion. We are one oil drop shy of looking like the Beverly Hillbillies. We have 4 bikes, 2 dogs, and 1 cat. We'll drop off the critters at my folks in Indiana, which will be home base, and travel West. Stay posted as we document our trip.

A Bike Commuter Might I Be?

I should burn in environmental hell for living less than 2 miles from my workplace and not riding my bike to work. I can give you all the lame excuses like I can't get sweaty, there are no showers, and I won't get tenure if people think I am some anti-republican, oil hating, hairy hippie..oh, did I mention the gnats? Yet despite my barriers, I decided on Tuesday to strap on the old pink helmet, grab the commuter bag, and ride to work. From a car perspective I rarely see people walking, riding, or outside on this campus...at least that my perspective. To my surprise, during my commute I waited for a stop light with 4 other commuters. As I was cutting through campus on the walkways a FAST mountain biker beat me to the entrance, an attack I didn't see coming, but at least he had a helmet on. On my way to the office I saw numerous students who waved and a few faculty members. People in cars stared and yielded. I know I was the envy of those stuck in their metal, oil sucking containers as I rode by using the power of my legs and the wind in my hair. After I arrived at work and parked my bike in my office, I felt guilty I had waited so long take this ride. Maybe for summer school I will be a bike commuter after all.

Busy Week

The Speedweek series hosted a race each night this past week in SC. Sean was able to race every night and was tired from the tough competition and traveling. I was able to race in Spartanburg and enjoyed seeing everyone. Thanks to Cissy for letting us stay in her mountain house for the weekend. Caroline and I enjoyed a long ride up the watershed. A much needed break for both of us. Will return to the Upstate for a few weeks after finals on Wednesday.

SpeedWeek

Tour de Georgia

Enjoyed watching Stage 2 of the Tour de Georgia leave only a few miles from our house. The bad boys of Rock Racing were in full force! George was at the back of the peleton hanging out before the race. All our local, non cycling friends wanted to know why Sean wasn't racing. Of course, he just said he had been sick and a teammate filled in for him. Maybe next year!

Asheville

We spent a short weekend in Asheville for a conference a few weekends ago. Had a great time at the Grove Park Inn, watching a turkey walk around the hotel, and riding in the local group ride with Josh and Deb.

Paris-Roubaix 2008

Teammate, Dawn Strickland is in France for a few months and was able to attend the Paris-Roubaix. Click the link to see her album. Thanks for sharing Dawn!