mikebike

Motorcyle Mecca or 736 turns in 22 miles

2010-05-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today was a day that some people only read about and others get to live every weekend. We rode today in the Mecca of Motorcyling in the East --- the Tail of the Dragon and the Cherahola Skyway and many other roads in the tri state area of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.

The Tail of the Dragon is the most famous of the roads there and it is pretty awesome but the other roads are a blast to ride on as well we were up over 5000 feet in elevation at times and we coverd 305 miles of riding. We enjoyed a great day of sunny mild weather and gentle breezes.

It was a grand day of riding ........

240 miles of Twisty roads....

2010-05-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

Today we had perfect weather and covered 240 miles of nice roads in Georgia North Carolina. For those familiar with the area we hit Warwoman road and Highlands ....28 to Franklin and onto the Nantahala Gorge, then Wayah Road and back to Helen.

It was great riding and we had a nice lunch Big Willies in Franklin... good BBQ. We were covering some ground and enjoying the views and the roads.

Motorcycling in the Mountains

2010-05-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

Since I am not traveling by bicycle on this trip I can not use my normal Crazy guy on a Bike site so.... I am back at Blogspot for this one.

This blog will chronicle a short 5 day trip to the Mountains of North Georgia. Due to the folks I am riding with there will not be as many pictures as I would normally take due to the fact we ride and do not stop a great deal for photo opportunities.

I will introduce the folks as the trip goes on and I get a picture of each of them. So....on with the report:

I left Ocala on Wed morning May 5th about 7:15 am ; I am riding my Yamaha FZ6 and had it loaded down with saddle bags, tail bag and a tank bag. About 1 mile from my house it started to pour rain from the heavans--- Argh. When it came it just was like Bang -RAIN ON-- so I did not stop for rain gear and luckily it only rained for about 5 minutes.... then nothing. Since I was wearing mesh riding gear and it was a nice pleasant morning I dried out in short order.

Riding through Ocala I made my way to I-75 for a quick 85 mile jaunt to Lake City, FL where I was to meet up with some of the crew. We found each other and I loaded my bike into the 20 foot plus enclosed trailer and off we went.

Our destination was just outside of Helen Georgia. We had rented a house there and it is much easier to ride in the back of a big Ford Excursion watching movies than ride up the long straight roads of Georgia till you get to the moutnains which are in the top of the state. We found the house and it is nice.

It is an all wood 3 story log cabin chalet. We found it on vacation rental by owner. Very nice digs and the price is wonderful. My share is $40 a night. I will post some pics of the cabin latter today. Once we were setteled into our rooms we had unloaded the bikes and it was almost 6pm. So 4 of us suited up and went for a short ride.

We looped up and over Blood Mountain then down to GA180 where hung a left and twisted our way up Wolfpen gap. This road folds its way up the mountain oft times snaking back over itself as it ascends to just over 3000 feet. Once up to the top we turned and headed back down. We do not have twisty roads in Florida and this was a blast.

Hopping back on 129 we went down to the Russell Scenic Highway and climbed up and over Hogpen gap another twisty climb and on the back side descent. Near the top we saw aroad closed sign--we decided to go around it and see if we could get over. Luckily it was in fine shape and the repair to the road was neaer completion so we safely made it over. We returned with about 50 miles of twisties just before sunset.

After some pizza we went down to the "gameroom" and played some ping pong and pool before heading to bed for a restful nights sleep.

Pics to be added later--stay tuned.

Derek's Graduation

2009-06-07T13:21:00.001-07:00

June 6th 2009 Derek Graduated from Forest High School with High Honors. He was a member of the National Honor Society, the Engineering progra,and got a full scholarship for tuition and books for 4 years at the University of Florida. This is a shot of him dancing his way up the asile.

Here he is coming off the stage with his diploma.... we were kind high up so I had to use the 10x optical zoom to get these.

Here is the group of graduates. There were 544 of them. It was the biggest class ever in Marion county. There are 6 high schools in the county. Derek finished 14th in his class.

He had High honors.... National Honor Society.... Engineering Special Program...and a full tutition scholarship to the university of Florida. When he gets there his life long friend Mike Armstrong will be his roommate. It is amazing both of them got into UF. 24000 apply and only 6000 get in.... which may not sound impressive....but ... only REALLY sharp kids bother to apply there.

End of May ---Cycling

2009-05-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Recently Michael and Cayce made a trip to Tampa to visit their friend Jason who deals in bicycles online. They were able to get a great deal on a bike for Cayce. She is excited about riding and loves the Orange & Blue color scheme of the new Trek.

They were beaming after riding to visit us -as is evident by their smiles. She looks like a cyclist and is already riding 18- 20 + miles -- so the prospects are good for her cycling future. She has a good teacher too and that never hurts.

Derek is finished with High School and will graduate on June 6th. Here is a pic of one of his last days when he rode to school in a makeshift swimming pool in the back of a pick up truck. The good news is he is accepted to the University of Florida and did qualify for a full academic scholarship (covering tuition and some $$ towards books). In his class of 570 only 11 qualified for that level of support.

The rest of the pictures are from a 63 mile ride we did yesterday to benefit Hospice of Marion County. The first one shows what happens when you ride a tandem with single bikes. They line up like it is Talladegah to enjoy the big draft the tandem puts out.

Here are the boys and I enduring the heat for a photo opportunity.

At the bottom is a picture of two of my favorite clients Lil & Ruth who do tons of volunteer work in town and we there serving food to the riders

DC trip and misc.

2009-05-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Bernice & I went to Washington DC for a short trip Thursday to Sunday.... I am tired so this will be brief.

First off.... Thanks to everyone who has served in the military and played a part in securing our freedom. I truly appreciate it.

We had a great time and saw most of the key tourist spots in the capitol area.

This is Stanley the Crawfish....Derek found him in the river he has lived with us for 6 weeks or so and has molted shells 3-4 times

Another excellent week....

2009-05-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

Bernice & I found recently that at the end of our street if you traverse a small field you intersect with the Florida Trail. This has provided us with some interesting after dinner hikes. The wild flowers are in full bloom right now in the meadows along the trail.

Last Tuesday Michael and Cayce joined us on our hike. We went about 3 miles round trip down the trail and found a mixture of meadows and woods.

One place they made and easy crossing of a fence and you actually traverse through an occupied cow field-- fortunately the herd was through an open gate and down a bit when we passed. In watching where I was walking -- I noticed this cactus in bloom.

On Saturday we did a 48 mile ride with our friend Don. He says he likes following us on the Tandem. I think he enjoys the draft ---it was funny-- He said, " I feel really fit while following you guys -- not so much when I am leading"

On Friday Bernice & I did a 60+ mile ride in the horse farm area north of Ocala. It was pretty with all the farms, ponds and horses. Some of which get all frisky and want to run with you as you go by.....others do not even notice us

This coming week we will head to Washington DC for a conference I qualified for-- should have some good pics for next week.

derek pics

2009-05-07T05:31:00.000-07:00

Friends.... Riding.... and Graduation

2009-05-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I left church on the Harley and went for a nice ride with a group of friends to a place called Sleepy Hollow near Floral City ..... It was great weather and the Food was great. We sat at tables under Big live oak trees & had lunch. There was live music on our side of the river and some good Red Neck entertainment on the other side --- note the 4 wheelers.... it just went from Bad to worse the more beer they drank.

We saw them get stuck / towed... and swamped in the river.

On this Friday Bernice and I went on a 61 mile ride all around the county.... we actually got in just over 2000 feet of climbing --- in Florida that is not easy to do.

On Saturday Michaels wife Cayce received her Masters Degree from the University of Florida. Congratulations to her on that Big accomplisment

Friends ---Bike Rides & Bike Rides

2009-04-26T04:01:00.000-07:00

We had a good week at work..... Michael headed for NYC on Thursday night and is taking in the sights of the big city.

We went on 2 longer bicycle rides this week one 46 over the Moss Bluff Dam and the requisite Dam Diner ....continuing out through part of the Ocala National Forest.

On Friday night we went to a King of the Wing competition for the best wings in town. We went with a group of 10+ couples and had fun laughing and eating wings. It was a good evening we met and rode there on the Motorcycles.

Saturday Morning we went on another 43 mile tandem ride around Lake Weir and saw many Motorcyles heading to the Leesburg Bike Fest. We pulled into a gas station for a rest room break and there were a group of 20+ BIKERS on their Harleys. I rode the tandem in the midst of them and asked if this was where we where staging to go to Leesburg???

I took photos of Bernice and I that were a few years older .....Enjoy !!!

Easter and the week following

2009-04-19T16:17:00.000-07:00

Easter or Resurrection Sunday was a week ago today and we had a great day. It began with a sunrise service then a nice family meal with Mike & Cayce and also Bern's Mom.

We had a great meal and Everything was very good.

On Thursday I had some business to handle in Daytona so Bernice came with me and we spent the night on the beach. THe views, wind and waves were quite relaxing. Early Friday morning we got up and rode the Tandem along the Halifax river doing the LOOP there twice once in each direction for a 48 mile trip. The weather was excellent and the scenery was too. We had some parts of the ride thru upscale neighborhoods, some along the river, some along canals, some under heavy canopied trees --- very diverse scenery. After the ride we showered, checked out and had a lovely lunch at High Tides on the Beach in Flagler. Then we drove home.

On Saturday we went on a 45 mile ride with our friend Don and looped through some of the Ocala National Forest--- once again great weather and a nice ride.

Today was Church in the AM --- then a Putt Putt Golf event for Dereks school we had fun with Bern, Myself, Mike & Cayce , Derek and Emily(his girlfriend)

Nice week

Fishing and Riding

2009-04-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

This week other than working I was able to go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and several nice rides. The fishing was fun and productive --catching Red Fish, Trout, Snook and even a flounder and a Jack.

The bike rides were nice one was 48 miles and one was 45 miles both on the Tandem.

Tomorrow is Ressurection Sunday (Easter) and I am so thankful and humbled that Christ died on the cross my sins and the sins of all who believe in Him. I am also thankful that He rose from the dead showing He has POWER over death.

A good week .....

Sebring Tandem Weekend

2009-04-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend Bern and I went to Sebring Florida for a couple days of riding and sharing meals with some folks. We knew one of the couples from riding with them in Palm Coast and one from the tandem forum and Facebook. Then there were 3-5 other couples we got to meet while there. We did two rides one was 54 miles and one 34 miles. We had two great meals and a nice lunch as well.

Hats off to Jill and Mark who planned and organized the event. Also thanks to the Kenilworth Lodge who was originally hosting the event but there was not enough interest to pull it off. They still stepped up and gave us vouchers for lunch and paid our admission to Highlands Hammock State park. They also posted the sign shown below.

Over all an excellent weekend with great people, weather, food and riding

Time to Remember

2009-03-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

Some people have noticed it has been a while since I posted an entry on my blog. Partially because Facebook is easier, I was not getting many if any comments here and third one of my faithful readers died in February--- My Sister Nancy.

On February 17th her life ended on this earth and she went to be with her Saviour. For us that are left behind it was sad but for her... it was Awesome. I talked to her the morning she died and that afternoon she talked with God. How cool is that!!!

She and I were always close and shared many good times together. We played together when I was young and sang to old 45 records with hair brush microphones. She was the one chosen to tell my in 1972 that my Mom had died.... yes good times and tough times she was there. In 1976 she was the one who got me to go to church and impacted my life by introducing me to her Saviour--- Jesus.

Her faith was real and it is a testament as to how she faced death when her time came. She knew full well where she was going --- not in a proud way but having faith in what God said in the Bible ---- "These things I write unto you that you may KNOW that you have eternal life"

I wanted to dedicate this weeks entry to Nancy.... and her friendship, love and testimony that will never be forgotten.

If you are reading this and want to know for sure where you will go when your time on earth is over .....call me -- email me and I can share with you like she did for me.

Here are some random shots of her taken in the last couple years.

2009-02-15T05:06:00.000-08:00

I wanted to tell you guys who I work with on a day to day basis. Michael is an Associate Financial Advisor, Hannah is a meeting preparation specialist and handles correspondence. Derek is interning at the office several days a week and handles technology solutions. Bernice is the client relationship specialist and Susan handles primarily planning inputs and home office issues.

Last week I went back again to NY ...yes only 9 days after the last time. Primarily to see my sister Nancy who is battling cancer but I was also able to sneak in a little skiing. As you can see Winter still has a firm grip on New York State. The first day I was there it did not get above 5 degrees for the high. Even fast flowing rivers were nearly frozen solid.

Luckily I have the right gear to be able to enjoy the snow even in the frigid temps.

Back in Florida I am still fighting a cold and apparent sinus infection but Bernice and I were able to get out for 2 nice rides on the tandem. (45 and 43 miles)

I add these last to for the benefit of my nieces husband Chris and my sisters significant other Brian. Both of whom have how shall we say sick senses of humor. So when we stopped for lunch on Friday and I saw these outside of the BBQ place I thought of them and snapped away. Enjoy!!

Ididaride 15 Jan 31st 2009

2009-02-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

On January 31st Michael and I spent the day in White Springs, FL following these green arrows through the woods on our bicycles (mountain bikes). Well to give the full story we only followed the green ones for half the ride --- in the afternoon we followed orange ones to lead us back to where we started. In all we covered nearly 50 miles of riding.....through the woods --- over logs and through streams. This was the 8th time I have done it and Michael's 4th.

The ride starts near the Steven C Foster State park. Actually the first 6 miles are on trails surrounding the park. This is the bell tower in the park. As you know this park is named after the writer of "Suwanee River" and our ride was near that very river for most of the day.

It was a cold weekend with a hard frost both evenings. This shows the starting temperature for the ride. This was NOT the low for the night.

Since we were camping at O Leno State park we we glad to have a campfire going the better part of the weekend. Bernice and Cayce got their Campfire Badges as they built a great fire to help us warm up after the Bike ride.

It was nice to have Mike ride with me and both Mike and Cayce to camp with us for the weekend

This was the 15th annual Ididaride. Sponsored by the Suwanee Bicycle club. They did an excellent job this year. The weather though cold at the start was pretty nice in that it was sunny and warmed into the high 50's ----that beat last year when it was raining heavy and in the 40's

While camping I went looking for some deer to photograph. I saw and took pics of several but this one was the cutest. It thought I could not see it as it was well hidden but I could and got this nice shot.

2009-01-25T16:36:00.000-08:00

When we got to New York we went to my niece's basketball game. She played well and scored several points in their victory. It was fun to see her play. That is her at the free throw line.

We were able to spend time with family which was nice. Pictured here are three generations of Mike Millers. Dad is doing well at 84 years old. It was fun each morning to watch he and his friends joke around in McDonald's. They carry on like teenagers picking and pranking each other.

The scenery driving back and forth to the mountain to ski was very nice. seeing every thing from ice formations to wildlife.

The skiing was great.... three days on the slopes. Snow was excellent and temps were moderate te first two days and a bit nippy on the third. Micael & I had some good time together—conversations went all over the board from sports to deeper more important issues of life. I feel truly blessed to have two great sons. You might ask why I would say that--- well—let me tell you. First they both love and care about God. Second they care about family. Neither one of those two are casual to them – Rather deep commitments. I appreciate the manners and helpful spirits they demonstrate as they interact with people. Yep I am truly blessed with a great family.

The highlight of the trip was not the skiing though ..... one of my relatives and I were talking about life and the amazing way my sister Nancy is handling the fact she was placed on hospice care as she battles cancer. The reason she is facing death with such peace is her faith. She knows she will be with God in heaven when she dies. My relative was asking me many questions about that and as a result we prayed together and she recieved Jesus into her heart as her Saviour. I was very excited and thankful for this.
The week end included a nice evening with some friends from High School as well. What fun to tell old stories and reflect on events over the years. There were about 14 of us there and the funny thing is we found each other again thru the internet and an application called Facebook.

Nice relaxing week....

2009-01-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

I took several nice mountian bike rides this week including a 20 miler to the Land Bridge and a 42 miler all the way to SR200. I am just about ready for this years Ididaride on the 31st. This is a 50 mile off road endurance event complete with stream crossings and logs to go over.

Derek had a pleasure this week to go on a ski trip with his youth group in West Virginia.

On Wednesday Michael & I will head to NY to see family and get in a few turns on the slopes.

We are looking forward to playing in the Snow.

Great Week.....

2009-01-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

It was a good week. First week back at work and enjoyed seeing clients again. Then on Thursday night -- we watched the Florida Gators whip Oklahoma and win the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP again.

On Friday after when Bernice and I went on our tandem ride we covered 43 miles and had a Gator flag mounted on the bike. It was an excellent ride.

Today we got good news that Tim Tebow is coming back for his senior year. This is great news for the Gator Nation.

It was nice to enjoy the cool marning that warmed into the low 70's and to see the horses and farms that cover the north end of our county.

On Saturday my neighbor and I covered 37 miles in the woods on our mountain bikes. We are training for a 50 mile off road event on Jan 31st here is a short clip of where we ride.

A New Year ---- 2009

2009-01-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

A new year brings new opportunities, challenges and transitions. As we look towards 2009 there are several opportunities I will enjoy. One is continuing to teach Michael about the business of Financial Planning. He has learned much of the basics in 2009 we will add to that and teach him more about solving problems and running a business. This is fun time and he is a quick learner and that is good for there is still MUCH to learn.

Derek will finish High School this year and transition to the next phase of his life--- College. There are days when I wonder if he is ready ---- YET ...many more when I KNOW he is. He is growing into a young man and I am constantly getting complements after his interaction with people about his character and personality. It will be another challenge for Bernice and I to have him away from home but this is God's plan for parents. We survived when Michael left and in return we now have a daughter to love and enjoy ---his wife Cayce.

When New Years Eve came we celebrated the day in a way that seemed right to us. We went on a long bike ride in the morning then had friends over for a meal.

Friends and Family are two key components in life for us. Of course the other big one would be Faith. It is AWESOME that God gives us all three components to enjoy. I am asked now & then how my sister Nancy deals with the hand she is given (She has Cancer that is back again -- this time in her brain and liver) I do not claim to understand the Why about her situation but I know about the Faith I have ....(the same one she shared with me 33 years ago) and I know this did not take God by surprise and like she told us recently either God will heal her or she KNOWS where she is going. You might think ....How can she Know?? Well God promises eternal life to those who call on His name and trust his Son (Jesus) as payment for their sins.

I know some people say they do not want to hear about all the Bible stuff....well ....take a look at where the rubber meets the road. A person fighting a serious disease and Her faith is STRONG and SURE. If you have never trusted in Jesus as your Savior and want to be sure you know where you are going ask either Nancy or myself.

A new year was ushered in with some games and great conversation with friends.... then I watched the ball drop in NYC and went to bed.

The first day of 2009 ....hmmm a bike ride with my sweetie and a meal with family. This year for bicycling is another BIG one for us. We are planning 2 major cycling trips. The first a week in the Adirondack Mountains in mid July and then in September we are planning to bicycle from Alaine's house in Tacoma Washington all the way down the Pacific Coast to Tijuana Mexico. (well actually just to the border of Mexico --too much unrest there to ride in)

On Saturday I took a day off the bicycle after 4 straight riding days and rode the Harley about 160 miles with 7 other friends. It was a great day .....that was latter capped off with a new years beginning party at a friends house where we once again enjoyed friends.

Yep....key words for 2009

Family --- Friends --- Faith

Christmas Week -- lots of fun

2008-12-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas came as always and was a good time to reflect on the Birth of our Savior. Pretty cool when you think that the God of the Universe took on the form of a man in order to pay the penalty for our sins. It is interesting to think of all the giving that happens this time of year and yet many people forget the simple truth in John 3:16 --
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son...that whoever believes in HIM might have everlasting life. From the ruler of the Universe to a baby to the ruler of the universe.....he is the reason for CHRISTmas.

On the day after Christmas Michael had to feed Justin's fish in Gainesville ....so ... Bernice, Derek, Cayce's Dad (Randy) and I decided to go up with him and travel by bicycle -- 94.4 miles. We met early in the morning with a light fog and some trepidation on Randy's part-- his longest ride before this was 55 miles. Bernice & I rode the tandem which meant we led the whole way because it is too hard to draft a single bike with the tandem. It goes too fast fast downhill and not quite fast enough uphill. Both boys offered to lead --- but they did not mind drafting us.

We stopped at Paines Prairie on the way up enjoying the warm weather and hoping to see some Gators. Nope not one in sight on the east side of the road. But the break was nice. We made it to the apartment and got the fish fed.

Along the way we had a total of 4 flats Randy learned not to ride in the piles of debris in intersections. He was a trooper and pumped them up with out complaining. He did VERY well keeping up and did not complain once....all in all a good sport and a good ride under his belt.

On the way back across the prairie we saw a boatload of Gators. There were dozens of them sunning themselves in the near 80 degree sun. Shortly after that we had a great lunch at a cafe called Blue Highway in Micanopy. YUMMY!!!!

Our last rest stop was in Anthony at the little BP convenience store. Sam is the owner from India and is VERY friendly. He used to ride when he lived in India and always makes a point to make our stops at his store nice. This day he gave us some fresh sugar cane which was tasty.

Randy surpassed his old record by nearly 40 miles and was still smiling so it was a good day for all of us.

Yesterday I went about 315 miles on the motorcycle with a group of friends. 10 bikes in all --- we cruised through north Florida to almost the Georgia line then looped back. It included a lunch and breakfast stop and PERFECT weather.

Sunny skies.... warm weather is it December

2008-12-21T14:08:00.000-08:00

This was a great week of Florida weather... we had mid 70's and low 80's with very low humidity....oh and did I say Sunshine. This while my family in NY was enduring 2 major snow storms and my friends in Wisconson were freezing. It is a tough life but someone has to live here.

Fairly short week at work as we only saw clients Monday and Tuesday.... a little followup on Wednesday and I am done for the year. Michael will be there on a limited basis through year end. It has been a great 7 months having him work with me in the practice--- He has learned a lot and does very well with clients.

The flowers were in bloom and the skies blue and we were enjoying the Tandem. This picture was taken with the camera balanced on a rock -- hence the low angle.

Bernice and I rode to the Villages on Friday it was a great ride about 60 when we started which was was short sleeve weather-- it seems wierd for December but I will take it.

We got our Christmas present to each other early as our racks and saddle bags (Panniers) arrived. I put them on and everything fit like a charm. This is what we will carry our clothes/ tools/ etc when we ride down the west coast in September.

There are 4 bags altogether--- 2 larger ones in the front and 2 smaller ones in the front.

Cold --Party--guests

2008-12-14T12:10:00.001-08:00

I started the past week with a cold and it got the whole fever etc to go with it ....long & short I missed nearly 3 days of work. The good news in the scenario is Michael is capable and fully licensed to carry on with clients now a days without me being there. It was a good test for him and a relief for me. By the end of the week I was feeling better.

Friday was my Holiday Open house where we invite some of my clients to our home for some food and fellowship. It was a nice afternoon. The food was yummy as usual.

My clients really enjoyed the Chocolate fountain and told me I should have it in my office continually. I think we will stick with homemade baked goods and good coffee -- I like chocolate too much for the fountain to work.

Cayce was able to come over and help Bernice in the Morning with preparations -- that was a real help

One of my clients had just taken delivery of a Smart car. It was the hit of party and at 3:00 the designated end of the open house he pulled it into the driveway--- Whoosh the house emptied and every body wanted to see the little vehicle.

I actually drove it around the block ....it drives much bigger than it looks.

Many of the clients wanted their picture taken with it. They get about 41 mpg and cost about $14,000. An interesting vehicle but not one I am ready to go out and buy.

Friday after the party we had some cyclist come and stay with us. We are on a list to provide hospitality to touring cyclist--- Christopher and Karen are from the NYC area and are headed to New Orleans. Nice folks and good conversation was had. This is them leaving on Saturday AM

I felt well enough to get in a 40 mile ride on the Tandem with Bern on Saturday AM after our company left.

I thought I would put this in to help those of us who live in Fl remember why--------

Dare to Dream

2008-12-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

I have used this sign once before because it encompasses my view as to how things get done. I like to Dream ----Visualize-----Plan---and Execute.

Now as a Christian-we also pray about it and seek God's Will about things as well.

This leads me to disclosing our next big dream--- In September of 2009 we are planning to ride from Tacoma (actually Spanaway) Washington to San Diego California. It will cover about 1,800 miles and over 77,000 feet of climbing. We are planning to do this on our new tandem-- just Bern and I (no tour group) -possibly a friend or two-- we will carry everything in panniers (saddlebags) . I am currently working on the mapping (turn by turn) and have the first 10 days done.

All of today's photos were taken with my I-phone and not in great lighting but they get the point across. This one shows the tandem in a parking space in the Villages using our new "kickstand" -- it is like a folding wand that holds up the bike. Much to the chagrin of several golf cart drivers who thought I had taken "Their" spot.

We did a 48 mile trip which included going around Lake Weir and on to the Villages. I decided to show our northern friends where oranges come from. Pardon the bright early morning sun.... and to answer the inquiring minds-- No we did not take an orange-- tho I was tempted.

I like to capture recent gas prices when I think of it. Actually they are now down to $1.65 per gallon for regular.

I put this in for Wes & Rudy. We recently sponsored a golf hole for Rudy's K of C tournament. To answer your question Wes...."Yes--Michael did have socks on and for the most part Rudy still has most of his anatomy"

This last picture is a warning as to how not to pose when I take your picture. I warned Regan that he would show up on the Internet looking a bit silly. You can be the judge....

I think he favors his Dad in this one....Cullie???

Have a great week and leave a comment if you would. Lets me know somebody is reading this stuff.

Busy week.... Good Week

2008-11-30T11:28:00.001-08:00

This was a busy but good week filled with a variety of things. We worked the first 3 days of the week -- taking time for a nice off road ride on Monday from 4:30 till 6. Then on Thursday we had Thanksgiving at our house, and though the crowd was down we had a great time. We sometimes have 25+ but this year there were only 14 present.

As is the custom we usually have some folks there we have never met before and this year was not different. We had Mike and Becky from Michigan. Becky is the niece of a client of mine who recently had to relocate to Michigan and they were down to do some work in her house. I figured no sense in having Thanksgiving alone in a strange town so they accepted the invite and had a great time.

We did have Aunt Teresa and Uncle Chuck along with my cousin Linda . They drove up from St Pete on Thursday to join us. It is always nice to have them here....and on top of that they brought several bags of grapefruit and tangerines (Yummy)

We had good food, great deserts, a fun time with the puzzle, some games and a time of giving thanks. It was a nice relaxing day-- the notable regulars missing --- My Dad who decided not to drive down, The Aikens -- who moved to the snowy north and Michael who went to South Carolina to visit his new wife's family

On Saturday we packed up the Tandem and headed to the east coast for a meet up with 3 other couples for a tandem ride. We met up with Rick and Deb, Don & Carol and Greg and Joanie. Rick and Deb were the tour leaders for the day and mapped out a nice 43 mile route that ended up actually being 58 miles. This was fine by us as it was a great day, we rode with great people , saw pretty scenery and then had an excellent meal together.

This is our group at a stop at Bulow St park to see the Fairchild Oak.... as you can see this is one BIG tree. From left to right-- Don Carol, Joanie, Greg, Bernice, Rick , Deb and Me.
Sorry Rick for getting your bike dirty on the brief dirt section (grin)

It was nice to ride with other tandems and I learned a lot by watching them and asking questions. This is all new to us and very different than riding a single bike

Friday night Bernice and I went downtown and took in the sights on the square. The whole area was arrayed with beautiful lights and the weather was mild ....great night to be outside.

Our reason for going was a concert being put on by a band called FEE. The lead singer is Steve Fee pictured here. It is a Christian band with great music and a good message...the square was PACKED

On Saturday we headed to the Villages and met some more new friends. Bob & Jan (pictured to the left) . They lead us all over the south end of the Villages covering 25 miles ...ending up at TwoJays for coffee and conversation. They were an experienced tandem couple and very nice people. I am sure we will ride again with them.

Today is a nice quiet day with church this am then a nap and now time to enjoy the remainder of the weekend.

Brrrrr..... I thought this was Florida

2008-11-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

We had a week where the lows were consistently in the low 30's or high 20's..... and that my friend is chilly weather. For my northern family and friends --- you know I ski regularly in the single digits while up in NY -- so I am not going soft. But with the Florida humidity 30 feels like 15.

Even with the brisk weather we still got nearly 100 miles on the tandem. We are getting more & more comfortable on it. There is a large amount of communication necessary --- every thing from clipping into the pedals to starting, stopping, shifting, and even coasting has to be communicated.

We do very well and with a grand total of 4 rides we are already getting more and more proficient. I will say that riding into the wind is easier on it than on a single bike & rolling terrain is just plain FAST.

On other fronts Derek has been sick for about 3-4 days now....mainly a stomach thing where he can not keep food down. Oh for wisdom on his part to take it easy and heal.

This week is thanks giving and I would be remiss if I did not mention a few things I am thankful for. My family (all of you), our country and the freedoms we have, Christ for dying on the cross to forgive my sins, my friends that form a patchwork of memories and support from coast to coast, my Job and my staff along with my business partner Michael, and the Internet that is just one more way we can all stay connected.

We will have a crowd of about 14 on Thursday some family, some friends, and as usual some strangers. I think this Holiday more than others is a time to gather with all sorts of people and share the blessings.

It was cold but we had a new bike so we bundled up and off into the wind we went. This particular ride was our longest at just under 40 miles and by time we were done it was a comfortable 62 degrees.

We visited a long time client and friend Ruth who at 80+ years had to throw a leg over the new bike. I will say at one of her birthdays over 80 she hopped on my Harley and we went to lunch some 20 miles away.

She is a sport and heck of a nice lady, still very active --playing tennis, mahjong, and tirelessly raising money each year for our local hospice agency.

I think our trip to the Netherlands softened us a bit, as now we think nothing of stopping for a cup of coffee. This pic was taken outside the Yahala Bakery near Top of the World

Daisy Daisy.....

2008-11-16T13:27:00.001-08:00

One bit of bright news during the recent ecconomic downturn is Gas Prices ahve more than cut in half....

After waiting since early August our tandem finally arrived yesterday November 15th. It is made by a company called Co-Motion in Eugene,Oregon. It was worth the wait-- it is gorgeous

The model is a Speedster Co-pilot. This is a coupled tandem which means has couplers that allow it to come apart and it fits in 2 suitcases that are checkable as normal luggage.

Yesterday we had ridden our regular bikes in the AM and got the message it was in so after lunch we picked it up-- we had just enough time for a 9 mile ride before kickoff for the Gator Game.

Today we got to go for a bit longer ride of 22 miles with a few hills. We got along very well, enjoying the teamwork aspect of Tandem riding. You have to communicate everything to your partner.

Two things that are odd are as follows. Starting /stopping takes some coordination and photo taking is wierd with only one of us in the picture....I enlisted my neighbor John to take this pic and the video

November... bicycles, football and friends

2008-11-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

Cayce and Michael got a chance to travel north to Nashville to watch the Florida Gators spank the Vanderbilt Commodores --- she wanted to be sure to be warm so I offered to let her borrow my hat -- not sure but I think she found a different one to wear to the game.

Bernice was enjoying the mid 70's weather to do some studying out in our pool area. We use that area as an extension to the house this time of year. Delightful Florida weather--- 70 here and in Appleton Wisconsin it is 28.

We are certainly at this time enjoying FLORIDA Football. We CRUSHED the Georgia Bulldogs last week and Vanderbilt this week. We have clinched the SEC east. We have our sights set on South Carolina next week..... taking it one game at a time

On Friday night we traveled to the campus of UF and had dinner at Tijuana Flats (a good Mexican Restaurant on campus) It is always fun to walk around the campus. The reason we were up there was to see a good friend of ours.

We found her at the pool. She is a swimmer who happens to swim for the University of South Carolina. Sherah Aiken. She has been my friend since 3rd grade when I was her SS teacher and she kicked me in the shin for telling the Bible story about a guy named Achan (pronounced like her last name --- who hid stolen stuff in his tent) she did not like me saying that and OUCH.

We met her at the pool and followed her whole team to a restaurant and got to catch up with her. She is a senior at Univ of SC....luckily she did not kick me this time. It was great to see her and give her a hug.

Michael and I did a client event this past Wednesday. We sponsored a bicycle ride and breakfast in Inverness. It went well .....this is a picture of Bob, a retiree who moved to Florida from Montana. We had clients and their friends --- it was fun and we met some good people.

A nice time of year for flowers...

Today my neighbor John and I loaded our off road bikes up hand did just over 20 miles in the woods.

This is a picture of me on the Land Bridge overlooking I-75. This is a tri-use bridge for Bikes, Horses and walkers to cross the interstate safely.

Here is a short video of me in the woods today....click the arrow to watch it.

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Georgia Trip & Homecoming

2008-10-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

This past week Bernice went to the mountains of north Georgia....Blue Ridge to be exact to hang out with her friend Cheryl. They stayed at the Hawk's cabin while they were there.

Georgia in the Fall can be a place where Bears are everywhere. The key is to be faster than the person you are with. Last year Cheryl pictured here ran by Bernice screaming when they saw a bear. Even though moments before they were told never to run when you see a bear.

They did get to see some wildlife when they visited a Kangagroo farm near Dawsonville.

The fall colors were getting towards their peak and in the higher elveations wer.e pretty. Here is a view off the porch at the cabin

They went to a Pumpkin patch called Burt's it was located in outside of Elijay Ga.

The hiked to Amicalola Falls. It was about 2 mile hike and the views were worth it.

They spent a day in the Cahoutta Wildernes-- this is a picture of the highest lake in Georgia.

Bernice was missing me while there so found somthing else tall and sturdy to hug.

They were able to take in some Panaramic views from Fort Mountain State park. This park is high on a mountain where it is cool even in the summer.

Derek is a senior in highschool it is fall so....Homecoming was on the adgenda. Derek went with his girlfriend Amy and a group of friends. Here are some pics taken before they left for dinner and the dance.

Cooler weather and Biketoberfest

2008-10-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday morning I got up early had breakfast then rode the bicycle for 30 miles. Once back and showered I mounted up on the Harley and headed to meet my buddy Jim and off towards Daytona we went.

We stopped for lunch and this Bus pulled in the parking lot... soon the girls (the were dressed) were passing out Playboy Energy Drink samples. It was interesting.

Traffic was not too bad and the weather was GREAT... the ocean was pretty and motorcycles everywhere.

I guess you can not have a party without the Blues Bros showing up.

At Destination Daytona (a HUGE dealership and event headquarters) Jim ran into this young man who used to cut his lawn. He is now in the Army and heading to Afganistan in another month.

There were all kinds of bikes in the Dealership which is as big as a Walmart only 2 stories complete with an escalator.

This is a Boss Hoss Trike --- It has a HUGE powerful V8 engine.

We logged just shy of 225 miles and enjoyed the comfort of the Big bikes.

After a while we got on the back roads and headed home. My first Biketoberfest was in the books.

Riding in the smokies

2008-10-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

On October 8th I headed to Lake City Florida to meet my motorcycle friends. We met in Lake City (about 100 miles up the road) there we loaded bikes into Sonny's Trailer and his dad "Vern" was the chauffeur for the drive to Franklin, NC. On the way Sonny, Dennis and I watched some Dvd's. Viola we were at the hotel. Normally I ride up but there was heavy rain predicted (and received) so it was a good choice.

Sonny is the ride organizer and leads the rides....he is fast and safe. I am glad he waits for me at the turns. He & I were roommates and I got the nick-name Captain Early Rise

I rode the Yamaha FZ6 on this ride leaving the Harley at home. This bike is fast, comfortable and corners like a dream. I crossed over 8,000 miles on it in the last year.

We were there to enjoy the twisty roads and the fall weather and colors.We were not disappointed. Each day we covered over 200 miles of twisties.

Charles and Cindy were two of our group on his V-Rod.

On Friday I turned 51 and I rode both the Cherahola Skyway and the DRAGON. The Dragon has 318 turns in 11 miles --- this is a photo of me on the dragon.

We saw great color along the way. Most of the time we were zipping by and staying focused on the many turns and twists the great roads provided--- but ocasionally I would stop and snap a photo

This is a picture of my friend Willard. He is a great guy and a good rider. His sense of humor gives us all cause to smile while riding and at dinner. Like me he brought his son into his business --- by the way he does not like his picture taken so this was a rare moment

I was able to meet Franco from the FZ6 forum again and he rode with us for a bit on Saturday after lunch

There is a reason they call them the Smokey Mountains --- several times we ran into the Smoke (FOG) ......all in all a very good trip

This is a pic of Sonny's parents (both accomplished riders). They are great people and fun to be around.

After dinner Saturday evening the gang hung out for a bit ..... then we watched the Gators dominate LSU ---- on Sunday I rode the 497 miles home

Michael's Birthday and a camping trip

2008-10-05T19:08:00.001-07:00

Michael turned 23 on the 25th and we celebrated it on Tuesday night with a small party.

Thursday afternoon we headed of to St Petersburg to camp for 3 nights at Fort Desoto.

While there we spent time on the beach enjoying the refreshing salt air and the scenes of the shore.

While there we cycled the length of the Pinellas trail (65 miles)

Bern also did a benefit event for the "Race for the Cure" for Breast Cancer awareness. She did it in honor of my two sisters Nancy & Jeanne.

Last week of September

2008-09-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

It has been another interesting week in the Financial World. Another big bank failed (Washington Mutual) and one is on the brink of failure (Wachovia). It appears as though Congress will pass the Recovery Plan this week which will be good.

Here are a couple of pics of Bern's new car. It is a 2009 Volkswagen GTI - it is little with lots of interior room (Derek who is now over 6'5" fits easy in the back seat.

It is FAST .... yet looks docile --it is NOT. When that Turbo boost kicks in you better have money in your pocket cuz you will bury the speed limit FAST

Michael Turned 23 this week and my sister Nancy turned another year older the same day (she was featured last week) Mike & I had some appointment in Daytona on Wednesday.

On Thursday I had to head to Naples for a meeting of the top 50 advisors in the state....my room had a great view of the Gulf of Mexico. The training was good and the interaction with the other advisors was OUTSTANDING

Another week in in the life

2008-09-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

Well I harvested a few pics off the I Phone for this weeks blog. I am always amazed that a phone takes decent pics. This is my sister Nancy -- we got to have lunch and spend some time with her while in NY

This my other sister Jeanne. She is the oldest of the siblings. We had a chance to spend an evening at her camp near Hope NY while there.

Here is a pic taken of the 3 of us when we stopped by Jeanne's job to say hi. I did not realize how little my big sisters are.

We recently traded Bern's BMW in on a Volkswagen GTI. It is a great lil car. Do not let the appearance lull you into complacency this is a FAST lil machine that corners like it is on rails.

It is a two faced car....ONE - a lil compact economy car-- TWO---A demon speed racer-- if you let the 200hp turbo charged engine spool up you best have it pointed in the right direction.

It was a nice week albeit the stock market was a bit sketchy...if you were gone for a week and a half you would not know anything happened -- except for Lehman Bros is gone and Merrill Lynch is owned by a Bank

New York and Vermont

2008-09-14T14:48:00.001-07:00

Bernice and I flew up to New York on early Wednesday morning. We we able to see Dad, Nancy, Jeanne and Berns Dad all in the afternoon prior to dinner. Then we went out to eat with Dad and Ann ---pictured to the right

Early the next morning we headed over to Middlebury VT to do some cycling. Of course a trip to Vermont is not complete without the required covered bridge photo

Along the way we saw some interesting markings on the road. We were trying to decipher the markings when who should appear.

Our trusty mechanic, friend and tour guide for the day Jim Benson. Jim was the mechanic for our cross country trip last summer. He did a great job of leading us on quiet roads through the Champlain basin. Thanks Jim !!!

The flowers were in bloom and their were all colors to behold as fall arrives in the northeast.

We stayed at the Cornwall Orchard B&B just outside of Middlebury VT. This is a pic of our hosts Bob & Juliet. They provided great hospitality, excellent breakfasts and a quaint and relaxing environment.

We spent two days cycling the hills of Vermont. We saw 13% -14% on the GPS for gradient several times and 6 -8 % was very common. UP & DOWN was the common track. We followed Jim the first day and he routed us the second day --- excellent scenery and roads.

We had a nice scenic drive home and were able to bring home some NY apples.

Last night we had a nice time at my sisters camp on the river and got to spend some time with my nephew Colby.

new computer .....missed a week

2008-09-07T11:43:00.000-07:00

Last week I was switching lap-tops and hence I missed a week. Derek's Laptop died and so I gave him mine and bought a new one. In the turmoil of getting everything put on the new one and backing up data I was distracted.

News on my Hip---- all is well. Apparently the pain was from a bursitis and was just a short term inflammation the X-ray looked fine. Most of all I have free and full use of my hip without ANY pain. In fact last week while at the beach over Labor Day I was able to play several hours of Beach volleyball with no discomfort

We were able to go camping last weekend at Anastasia State Park in St Augustine
The weather was great all weekend. and as you can see the surf was high due to Hurricane Hannah passing by ---well out to sea.

We had a blast int he 4 - 5 foot seas on Boogie boards and just swimming. You did have to be cautious about the currents as they were VERY strong.

We enjoy watching the people the clouds the water and the sea gulls. Those things are pretty intelligent if you observe them for a few minutes. I find it amazing how they will congregate at the very indication of food. Then again that is what Derek does.

The beach had suffered a lot of erosion from Hurricane Fay which was not a real bad storm but it sat off the coast for hours producing heavy rain in some places and very high surf.

I liked this picture at is reminded me that we are not alone as we walk through life. We face many things in life but all of them pass to us through the hand of God. I find that to be a very real comfort as I seek Him to figure out what to do.

This world has a few too many twists and turns to try to face them alone. It is good to be able to seek the face of God and rely on His guidance.

We had Mike and Cayce spend the weekend with us. It is neat to see their young marriage growing and to see them enjoy each others company.
They were able to go see the Gators play Hawaii then head over for the balance of the weekend.

Yesterday they were at the Gators victory over Miami. Michael and some friends roasted a full size pig for their tail-gating festivities.

If you wonder why no pics of Derek..... He was there all weekend but spends all his time down the beach with his buddy playing beach volleyball. They play for hours.

We were able to meet some friends -- The Cooks while there. We have camped with them for several years now on Labor day and Memorial Day. His daughter is not really as scared as she looked. She was probably hoping they were not going back to a Pop up trailer since they recently upgraded to a huge 36' Motor Coach. The thing is very nice .....maybe over the top ---It has 4 flat screen TV's (one outside) if that gives you an idea. Maybe their Eyes are like that from the TVs (just kidding Bob)

Storms and a sore hip

2008-08-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

It was a week of predicted storms --that for us here in Ocala did not ever hit hard though we did get some much needed rain. I would guess there was somewhere north of 5
inches but the winds never got over 35 mph here. I am glad we did not get hit harder.

I only got to ride on Monday then it proceeded to RAIN some each including today.

My left hip developed acute bursitis last week. For a couple days I was in SERIOUS PAIN.... finally got some strong anti inflammatory drugs and it is healed. I have gone from very healthy and flexible to nearly immobile and back again in the span of 6 days.

My doctor buddy Don said it is kind of like a blister on the ball end of the femur and it can develop soon and is easily treatable ....well by yesterday I was healed.

Having an ailment like that REALLY makes you appreciate good health.

Wow a moment ago the sun was out. Reminds of the lyrics from:
Hello muddah, hello faddah
Here I am at Camp Granada.
Camp is very entertaining,
And they say we'll have some fun if it stops raining!
-------------------

Wait a minute; it stopped hailing.
Guys are swimming, guys are sailing.
Playing baseball, gee that's better.
Muddah, faddah, kindly disregard this letter!

Mid August and there is a storm brewing

2008-08-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

It is the time of year when storms are common and we have one heading our way. You never know if they will strengthen or follow projected paths BUT you need to be ready so we have our water and have tested our generator. Now we wait.

Back to last week in Chicago-- here is a pic of an old friend of mine "Mel" from Baltimore. It is fun at these meetings to pick up with old friends and Derek liked Mel( He is a funny Guy)

the Brian Setzer Orchestra played a private concert for us on Friday evening they were VERY GOOD

This is one of the cool buildings in the city...affectionately known as the "corn cob" -- it sits on the rivers edge and has parking on the bottom 3rd and then a multitude of balconies above. It was across the river from our hotel.

We had guests from China this week to keep up with the fever surrounding the Olympics. This was not a family of gymnasts rather some very good friends of mine that live there Teaching English in the University in the city Liaocheng (about 4 hours from the Olympics.

On another note we are having Michael Phelps for dinner next Saturday.

.......ummmm..........Not the swimmer but the owner of our local bike shop.

A few days in Chicago

2008-08-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

Derek and I just returned from Chicago where he celebrated his 18th birthday while attending an award conference with me. The Ameriprise National conference is held every two years and rewards the top 10% of advisors with an amazing conference.

Immediately after landing at Midway we went on an architectural cruise on the Chicago river where we marveled at the diverse sky scape of Chicago.

On Thursday morning we heard Chris Gardener speak. He was homeless and became wealthy. This is the man the movie "Pursuit of Happyness" is based on. (that is how they spelled Happiness)

On Thursday afternoon we went on a Segway Tour around the city and saw the city up close. What a fun way to get around and enjoy a beautiful city.

On Friday afternoon we were able to see the Cubs beat the Cards at Wrigley field. We were at a rooftop party for the game. Very nice way to see a ballgame. The Cubs fans sell out every home game all 42,000 seats-- Amazing for a team with no world series win for the last 100 years.

We rode the subway to the stadium and enjoyed a scenic walk back to the hotel in a city we greatly enjoyed.

Friday night we had a dinner and were able to catch up with old friends. Here I am with my buddy Wes from Tallahassee. It was a great evening.

Our entertainment was provided by the Brian Setzer Orchestra. He is the guy who played in Stray Cats. They play swing music and they put on a GREAT show!!!!

On Saturday we were addressed by Magic Johnson, former NBA great from the LA Lakers. He has become a well established entrepreneur.

On Saturday afternoon we were able to tour the Lincoln Park Zoo. A free zoo that I like much better than the San Diego Zoo

We were able to have lunch and tour the zoo with "Uncle Joel" who lives in
Chicago and was with us on our cross country ride last Summer. It was very good to catch up with Joel.

With the Hancock tower in the background today we left the windy city and safely got back to Ocala.

August Middle of summer

2008-08-03T13:45:00.001-07:00

We had a good but very full week. Lots of clients to see and it was truly a family business last week --- my assistant Susan was out all week attending her Mom's funeral. She passed away on July 24th at age --91. That meant Bernice was filling in for her. Michael & I appreciated Bern filling the void.

I saw this Bike Jersey at my local bike shop and was rather dismayed the largest size it came in was XXL --- Children's. Click on it to open it and read it easier... VERY COOL

About two weeks ago we ordered a tandem (bicycle built for two)-- it is custom built and should be ready in early October. Ours will be Pearl White Metallic -- notice it is coupled (meaning it can be dis-assembled and checked as a normal piece of luggage when flying. ((Once again click on it for full size)

Yesterday Bernice was at a Beth Moore Conference and my other riding buddy was in Texas....so... I went on a motorcycle ride. We put on just about 200 miles or so. I went to 2 friends Jim and Steve who also had black Harley Electra glides. We headed over towards the beach and found some nice back roads.

We started out before sunrise hence the dark photo above-- we road till about 2pm with stops for breakfast and lunch.

We saw a pretty cool Russian motorcycle with a two wheeled drive side car arrangement

This pic is of Jim and his wife from a couple weeks ago-- it was taken on my phone and hence the delay of posting it.

This week Derek and I will head to Chicago for the Ameriprise National conference... so I should have some good pics for next week

Summer in Florida

2008-07-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

w Well it is that time of year where the only ones that are riding regularly are the steadfast and faithful. The rest of them are enjoying air conditioning...WHY??? Cuz it is Humid and Hot here. Mind you I am not complaining- I choose to live here but the monotony of the weather does get old by this time of summer.

Many cyclist and their bikes fall prey to the warm summer weather. To fight this we simply ride early in the morning- oft times pedalling away from the house before 7:00 am.

I added this one because I thought the reflection of the camera in my glasses was kinda neat. I take most of the photos here while on the move and occasionally I turn it in my own direction.

This picture has two fold significance. First the writing on the sign could not be more fitting for Bernice and her love for reading. I did not notice that when I asked her to pose there. The school is a relatively new one here in town and is named after the son of a former client of mine. The son received the Medal of Honor for saving the lives of his unit by giving his own by covering an enemy grenade with his body while fighting in Viet Nam. The Mr Bowen Sr.died this past week as well.

We have been treated to several new roads in the county in the last year or so. That is always nice for cycling as it means good pavement and a bike lane.

The bike lanes are nice -- now if we can get the county to actually connect them. Many times now you go a couple miles and they end with no warning other than a sign "BIKE LANE ENDS" Yikes!!! sometimes this is at in inopportune time.

We stop now & then at a little park off of SW 80th Avenue called Shalom Park. It is peaceful as the name implies.

Ahhhh.... a normal week

2008-07-20T09:47:00.001-07:00

This week was a relaxing and basically uneventful week. We were back on our normal riding schedule(Mon/Wed -- about 20) Fri/ Sat about 40 - 60).

We enjoyed having Dad and Ann in town for a few days after the wedding. They are safely back in NY now.

It was a full week of work, with some good appointments. It is fun to see how clients are reacting much wiser these days to basically junky markets. The reaction now seems centered on --Grrr.... I am not happy about this BUT I know we are doing the right thing.

We heard a few times from Mike & Cayce that things are going well on the Honeymoon. We have been updated on all they saw while in Washington DC. They should be home this coming week.

We did get in a great night time Motorcycle ride to Inverness with a big group. We had dinner at Catfish Johnny's (Food was Marginal but the ride, weather, and fellowship were outstanding.

One note of interest is Bernice and I put in an order for a bicycle built for two (Tandem) this week.

Well here is a smattering of photos that I like because I took none this week.

Mike and Cayce married July 12, 2008

2008-07-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

On Friday people started arriving from out of town as preparations were in full swing for the Saturday afternoon event. Dad and Ann from New York, the Ochs from Tennesee drove to Gainesville. Shannon flew in from Atlanta.

The wedding was held in an old Methodist church in Gainesville. The service was officated by Cayce's Pastor. The church was beautiful - it had been built in the 1800's and remodeled again this year.

Bernice and I hosted the rehersal dinner at Harry's Seafood. We had 34 people in attendence. All went very well and things were ready for the big day to follow.

The boys are becoming men and have become fast friends. They had a great day together as Derek served as the co-Best man with Justin a friend from the University of Florida.

Not sure why they had our friend Cheryl drive the limo; maybe because her dress matched the limo.

When the guys arrived it looked like the Secret Service had arrived.

Mike got a gift from his groomsman... a pencil and ink drawing of exquisite detail of the stadium at Florida-- signed "Congratulation Mike & Cayce --by TIM TEBOW.

Shannon and Michael have been friends since kindergarten and she was able to fly down in the midst of a busy summer.

The wedding and the reception went very well. It was a special day as these two great young people were merged into a Husband and Wife. Thank you to all who had a hand in their lives as they grew up.

Congratualations MICHAEL & CAYCE

6570 days

2008-07-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

From the time a child is entrusted to you you have 6570 days till they turn 18. During those first 18 years values are instilled, lessons taught, and memories are made.

You teach, instruct, correct, model all the things you can to teach a young boy how to become a man. The days seem to pass slowly and yet with incredible speed and along the way you take care to number them, savor them and enjoy them.

You laugh, cry and at times scratch your head. You wonder how that little tyke grew up so fast. You see them grow and look you one day in the eye and then grow taller than the parents.

The birthdays tick steadily by and the activities evolve too.
In Mike's case:
from a white belt to black belt
from green beginner slopes to black diamonds
from lil bumps on the bunny trail to a State Championship
from kindergarten to the University of FL

There are tough times along the road but they are lessons learned and they serve in the long run to make you stronger. There are people who touch your live and then pass on for Mike a few of them would be Grandma Connie, Uncle Jack and Granny and Grandpa Hale. Each in their own way left a mark on his life and are missed.

Cycling has taught him many things: discipline, perseverance, focus, laughter, and patience. It has availed him friendships that will last for a long time--- Darrell and Uncle Bob.

It has forged a strong bond with Bernice and I as well as with his brother as together we forged first from San Francisco to Salt Lake City then from Coast to Coast this time last summer.

He finished his studies at the University of Florida. He has all his licences in place for a career in Financial Planning and joined me 8 weeks ago in my practice.

By the time I write this next week he will be married to Cayce. We look forward to having her as part of our family. She is a sweet girl from a great family and we welcome her with open arms.

the end of June is upon us

2008-06-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

We are in summer full swing now...temps in mid 90's daily and regular thunderstorms every afternoon. We do not fuss about the heat and humidity--- we chose to live in Florida. We adjust by riding early, doing outdoor work early and a lot of use of the pool.

We wear sleeveless jersey's and dream of trips to cooler places. We are riding now 4 days a week. Shorter 20 mile rides on Monday and Wednesday, and longer rides of 40 -60 miles on Friday and Saturday mornings.

This is our riding partner for Wed and Sat rides. He is our family doctor so I guess that makes our rides safer (grin). Actually a couple years ago when Derek took a serious spill it was nice to have him there to examine him and coordinate things at the hospital and that got him in quickly and treated is short order. Thank Doctor Don

We have had a good deal of wind primarily from the South lately; this means rides generally head south because it is better when you have the choice it is better head out into the wind than to finish with it in your face.

One nice thing about riding the road instead of in the woods off road is the spiders you see on the road are on jerseys not webs waiting to pounce on you.

Happy Birthday Jen --- & Grayson Highlands

2008-06-22T04:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to a good friend and fellow cyclist Jen from Delaware. Her birthday is tomorrow. She did the ride across America with us last year. She is the smiley one in the front (click for a bigger view)

We just got back from camping in the mountains of Virginia

We left Ocala on Thursday am about 4:30 and arrived here about 3:30 pm . We got a great site (number 23). The site is on the right side with a nice view down into pretty woods – we are at 4300’ elevation.

After setting up Derek and I headed out on a bicycle ride. We rode down the mountain to the rangers station and then back up to the top about a 4 mile climb with some 9% grades.

Later that evening our friends from Pennsylvania got there and set up.

The next morning we climbed up Massey gap and went up the bluffs to the right --- nice free climbing. In the afternoon we headed down Wilson creek and climbed up the rapids and swam in the mountain stream water. Like my friend Jeff says once you are numb you hardly notice it is cold water.

Today Saturday we hiked up two of the peaks on Wilburn ridge. Great hikes and scenery
All the flowers were in bloom and the wild horses were friendly.

Sunday AM it rained so we hung around camp and read a bit. We then went up to the visitor center which has a nice store with lots of mountain made things- Bern likes to buy their pot holders as the price is right, they look good and they last a long time.

In the afternoon Josiah came in on a bicycle. He is on a trip to Colorado via the bicycle. We helped him out with some ground cover, food and tips. He was a vet (26 years old) had been to Iraq and just graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. We did a hike to Cabin Creek and climbed up the rapids in the water. We also hiked twice that day to Little Pinnacle from the visitor center (very short hike with a GREAT view.

Monday AM we hiked with the Aikens on a trail from the picnic area Rock Ridge trail. Nice trail but not spectacular. Then we bid farewell to the Aikens as they had to head back to Pennsylvania. Shortly after they left we saddled up the bicycles and rode about 13 miles west with Josiah before wishing him Godspeed on the rest of his journey. The trouble was it was 13 miles down hill which meant 13 miles back up to the campground.

The neat thing is after riding across the country nothing seems too difficult – it is funny how much that trip affected all of us regarding our perspective on life.

Tuesday, we hiked a trail called Listening rock – nice trail along the edge of a mountain and it had several scenic overlooks and some Huge boulders to climb on. When we got back we had lunch and then Derek and I both went on a bicycle ride separately. It was kind of funny cause all there is to do here riding wise is up or down which translates into 45 + mph or 6-7 mph. --- seems kinds of funny to ride and only average 11- 12 mph.

Wednesday we hiked up the AT (Appalachian Trail) then split off onto Wilburn Ridge we climbed 3 peaks in succession heading up the trail. There is a fair amount of scrambling on the peaks. This basically involves some hands and feet but no need for ropes. Derek had an interesting time with one of the wild horses. He fed it an apple then it would not leave him alone – to the point of chasing him and cutting him off from his intended path. It was fun to watch although Derek may tell it differently.

The weather here has been chilly the last two nights it was in the 40’s but then it gets up to near 70 in the afternoons. The last two evenings I sat in a circle of bluegrass pickers and played the harmonica whenever they played in the key of C or G – I should have brought my other ones.

after a 11.5 hour drive we are home again.
here are some pics :

more photos here just click one and you can scroll thru them larger and quick

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Happy Fathers Day a bit early

2008-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

It is a bit early because I will be spending Fathers Day in the mountians of Virginia camping and there is no cell coverage or internet there;

So here is a musical tribute for my Dad.

thanks for being a great Dad

I love you

Calendar says Spring--- Feels like Summer

2008-06-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Officially Summer does not start till June 21st but someone forgot to tell the weather. Summer came in full force this week with temps climbing into the mod 90's. Sun Screen is flowing and pool water splashing as we get into our summer routines.

We missed this first bit of summer the last two years with our San Fran to Salt lake trip in 2006 and the cross country ride last summer.

We are getting lots of use of the pool though... which is nice. Derek is 6'5" but still a little kid who enjoys BIG jumps and SPLASHES.

Later this week (Thursday) we will head to Grayson Highlands State Park in the mountains of southern Virginia for some camping. Pepper likes this trip because she gets to go and while there gets to hike off lead in the high country. The campground is at 4,300 feet (approx) and is situated on the Appalachian Trail.

Even with the heat we have still been getting our cycling in Mon Wed Fri & Sat mornings. It is warm but oh well we live in FL -- as I write this it is 84 here and also 84 in my hometown of Johnstown... so I can not complain.

5 Day Motorcyle trip --- report

2008-06-02T16:53:00.001-07:00

I left last Thursday and returned today Monday June 1st --- covered over 1800 miles hit a total of 5 states (FL GA NC SC TN)

Thursday -- Rode to Toccoa GA and stayed with the infamous Uncle Bob from our cross country ride. He, Sherry, and Buck (the dog)were great hosts and it was excellent to catch up with Uncle Bob

Friday Am I said goodbye to Buck and his "parents" and rode to Robbinsville NC and met up with some guys from the Motorcycle Forum. We headed out to Fontana Dam and the Dragon (318 turns in 11 miles)

I peeled of from the group and went on a 165 mile loop hitting the Dragon, the Foothills Parkway and the top of the Smokies(
near Clingmanns Dome)

Saturday we went to the Crossroads of Time, then hit the Hellbender and on to Franklin and Highlands (via 28) then down into SC and back to Warwoman Road to Clayton GA. Then on to Suches, Blue Ridge, route 60 & 68 to Tellico Plains then over the Cherahola Skyway to the cabin at the RIdge.

On Sunday it was raining in the AM then it let up and Steve,Franco and I headed out for a nice ride and some sight seeing.

We had Franco's R6 it is the pretty Yellow one

Steve took us to an incredible waterfall. (look at the guy in the middle -- double click to blow it up) this was a big set of falls - near the TN end of the Cherahola Skyway

As the light faded we headed back up and over the skyway.

Today (Monday) I rode home --- all 540 miles of it

Whew great trip ----lots of great people, scenery and riding

Beach Camping at Anastasia State Park

2008-05-27T16:58:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend at Anastasia State Park. Derek and his friend Michael as well as our Michael and Cayce were with us for the weekend.

The weather was delightful.... other than a thunderstorm shortly after set up... it was perfect. Sunny during the day, the evenings were pleasant.

Our site was spacious and level with nice shade that provided for dappled sunlight in the afternoon.

We had a nice time at the beach in the early morning and late afternoon... so as to avoid the peak sun of the afternoon.

back at home .... good week

2008-05-17T17:13:00.000-07:00

We will begin with a few final pics and thoughts on our Netherlands adventure. The overall trip was GREAT. Weather, people, scenery, animals, and the opportunity was one we were grateful for.
This is Iggy the boats parrot he and the dog made the boat feel homey.

Our food was great and each night was a theme from a different country. It was a good thing we were cycling all day or We would have gained weight. As it was I lost 4 pounds during the 2 weeks.

People have asked what our cabin looked like. Lets just say it was a little smaller that this one.
Actually it was comfortable clean and cozy.

WE had a great time in the Netherlands and it opened our eyes to a very big world. There are some new places on our dream list--- and my job is bringing those dreams to a clear vision then reality.

We have flowers in this country too- I found these in the Villages on our Friday morning bicycle ride. We had a pleasant 50 mile ride.

The baby horses are getting bigger and they look so good as they use some of that youthful energy in the paddocks.

It was nice to be back in the canopied roads of central Florida. The summers humidity is beginning to build and once it is in full swing it will be here till mid October.

In the afternoon after our Saturday AM ride I went out for a nice long ride on the FZ6. This is a shot of it near the ocean at Flagler beach.

Holland trip summary

2008-05-09T05:41:00.001-07:00

We have ridden every day for the last 14 days. The first week was colder and some light rain (highs about 60) and the second week was pleasantly warm (high 70's) and sunny.

The riding has been casual but steady. We have enjoyed the countryside with farms, canals, sheep and windmills. Also traversed many cities and towns. Some modern some from the 1,100's --- All bicycle friendly.

We have seen more cyclists and types of bikes than I have ever seen before. I will try to give you a flavor of some of what we saw. I am notgoing to try to label them for you-- Enjoy!!

tuesday April 29th

2008-04-29T09:22:00.001-07:00

We covered 40 miles today cycling along the Rhine river into Germany and then heading in a big circle back Nijmegen. Very scenic, cool and full of neat international scenery

Last night we had Indian food and today we will have Tex Mex --- all the food has been Fantastic

We actually had some climbs today the steepest was an 11% grade

reporting from HOlland

2008-04-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Day 1 about 50 miles from Uttrecht to Teil .... very scenic lots of small towns and farms along with orchards.

Day 2 we covered about 25 miles from Tiel to Nijmegen - We took leave of Tiel along the mighty Waal River along a picturesque dike on the route to Nijmegen. We visited the fruit farms along the way . Several times we had to work our way around small herds of Sheep that were free ranging and walking long the path. The weather was in the 50’s and light rain but the cycling was very pleasant as we were dressed properly.
Nijmegen is the oldest town in the Netherlands and was home to Charlemagne. Once there we explored the town and visited a bicycle museum

here are some pics --- kind of short but internet is limited

Great News, Time with Dad and bon voyage ahead

2008-04-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Well the BEST news we had this week was that Michael passed the Series 7 exam. This test is VERY challenging test he passed it with flying colors on the first try (many take several attempts and some never make it)

This is the look on his face post test

It is the time of year when the baby horses are born and we saw several that were very new.

There was also this critter who was so cute I had to stop and put it on the blog.

Derek was enjoying the warm weather and an excuse to enjoy the pool.

My Dad was able to spend a few days with us this weekend. It was good to sit and talk to him, catch up and hear some old and new stories.

He came down with his girlfriend Ann. It was nice to enjoy some meals, a concert, and a celebration meal with Michael and Cayce.

Derek was also able to catch up with his Grandpa. Dad noted that he was still growing at 6'5 and a half.

We said good bye at Steak & Shake with Dad telling them to make it his way

On this Friday Bernice and I will fly to Holland, board this boat and spend 2 weeks touring Holland via bicycle. Depending on Internet access I will post from there or when I return.

Spring is busy and fun

2008-04-13T14:26:00.001-07:00

Michael and Cayce will be married on the 12th of July. They had their engagement pictures taken this week. The photographer did a really nice photo shoot. He is talented.

On Monday I left work a tad early for a 4pm Demo Ride at the Ducati store in town. I get to test ride an 1100 Multistrada it was fun to ride. Actually pulled my first wheelie on a street bike. It was kind of by accident but FUN!!

If you are wondering the cost of a prom ticket these days. It is about 10,000 pounds of rocks. That is $100 if you are not up the exchange rate. Derek spread the rocks bordering our pool in exchange for his ticket. Yes I am mean but he knows money does not just grow on trees. I guess that means he will be a republican (sorry for the political commentary but it is an election year)

Pepper is our Australian Shepherd who is about 10 years old. A very affectionate dog and cute too.

This is an old house that we ride by occasionally and Bernice really likes it.. so this is here for her enjoyment

We got in 4 rides this week in preparation for our trip to Holland which will be here before we know it. We fly to Amsterdam on the 25th only 12 days from today.

My weekly animal picture... when they see me now they pose. I think the white one in the back is named Derek (taller than most and always trying to sneak in the picture.

This guy is still following me-- all the way across the country and still I can not shake him.

We had a nice fellow named Peter from New Hampshire join us this Friday for a nice 45 mile jaunt. He rides a recumbent bicycle (kind of upright seating as you can see)

I rode past a forest fire on the motorcycle this past week. The heat was intense and a bit smokey -- they got is under control after a bit. I was surprised the road was open -- this pic was taken at 50 mph with my cell phone.

DARE to Dream

2008-04-06T16:36:00.000-07:00

When I saw this sign it was a must stop photograph. From leaving GE in 1978 to coming to Florida in 1986 to cycling across the whole country--- each facet of the Journey begins with a Dream. All of us have dreams the trick is to take the steps to identify and achieve them.

In just a few weeks we hope to achieve another dream.... to bicycle in Holland and Germany. The windmills there will look different but do the same thing as our Florida.

I had to include some Cows for Colby my nephew in New York. I am told he enjoys the animals when I include them.

We began the move to my new office on South East Fort King Street. We are just about totally set up now. So I thought I would share some photos of the new digs.

The lobby

the primary client meeting room

Susan and Bernice's office

My office

The file room/kitchen and Michael's office are not finished yet.

We had some good bicycle rides and some good rain this week... luckily not at the same time.

Busy but good week

2008-03-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

This week was made up of a full week of appointments with clients, preparing and executing the relocation of my office, several bike rides, a 2 day ladies conference for Bernice, and a nice motorcycle ride with friends to finish the week.

We had the chance to have David at our house for a few hours and it was fun. He loves to be read to and he and Pepper become fast friends. We miss David's adoptive parents Cullie and Sandy who left Ocala to be Missionaries in Haiti several years back.

Derek had a graduation this week from a very selective program called Leadership of Marion Youth. Both of our boys have now graduated from this program which after application, interviews, etc selects a few kids from each of the 6 high schools in the county and then exposes them to various sectors of the community relating to leadership.

Both Derek and his best friend Michael Armstrong qualified and it is appropriate that they each got the rewards on the plaques shown here. (click the photo to enlarge)

My buddy Jim was considering getting rid of his Harley in favor of this more tame ride. Unfortunately the four riders of this mighty steed would have none of that. Yes you read right 4 people were going to ride this thing all at one time

I was not sure if they are members of a circus or friends of Cullie...but all 4 of these people boarded the scooter. They then rode out of the parking lot with smiles on their faces.

We then entered the restaurant called Margaritaville in Homosassa FL for a nice meal that started off with a flaming cheese appetizer. When this was served it was met with a rousing cheer of Ooompah!!! Got to love a good Greek restaurant.

As it was nearly time to climb back on the Harley and head home they have a nightly celebration of remembrance of the 9/11 tragedy and tribute to the troops. It was accompanied with Lee Greenwood's Proud to be an American and flag waving.

He is risen..... He is risen indeed

2008-03-23T18:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Resurrection Day !!!!

This week was a busy one an it included a trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota.
My soon to be new business partner and I traveled north to attend the "Dream it..Do it" conference. It was some excellent training, great renewing of old friendships and an opportunity for Michael to meet some of our companies leaders. We had a great trip and both learned a lot. This coming week looks to be a busy one as we prepare to move to our new location on Friday the 28th.

This picture was taken today and is a preview into my practice. It is my hope and the boys desire to join me in my practice with the long term plan being to have them run a joint practice together.

This is the family photo an obligatory event for Easter. We had Cayce take this and it came out nice. The boys are growing up; Michael is a young man entering independent adulthood. He will make 3 important events a reality this year: College Graduation, starting his career, and Marriage... all within 3 months. We are very pleased with all three. Derek is finishing up his Junior year of high school and is maturing as well -- making big strides in: continuing excellent grades, building on a very good work ethic, and boldness in his Faith.

This is Michael and Cayce. Their big date is July 12th. She is a sweet girl and we look forward to her joining our family formally...in our minds she is already. Saturday they went apartment hunting... life is busy here.

We took a nice ride this afternoon on the Harley. It was to see our friend Dean in ICU at Shands up in Gainesville. He fell from a ladder about a story up onto concrete. He is in very serious condition with a fractured scull, bleeding on the brain, and several other broken bones. Please pray for his recovery.

We stopped at Cross Creek on the way home. This is a small community south of Gainesville that seems untouched by time. It sits on a creek that connects Orange Lake and Lochloosa Lake. Very tranquil.

This was the home of author Marjorie Rawlings. She wrote the famous book The Yearling.

A good week all in all.....

HE IS RISEN ....HE IS RISEN INDEED

Family pics and a good week

2008-03-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

Well I have no pics from this week because of a long story -which I will spare you the details--- I was without my camera until Thursday night. SO I will put up some pics from last weeks trip.

This was a good week all in all. Work went well and many details are falling in place for moving my office on the 28th of this month. I had two good bicycle rides in the woods and two on the road. Also 2 nice motorcycle rides one on the Yamaha and the after church today Bernice and I went on the Harley.

This week Michael and I will head to Minneapolis for some training. We fly up on Wed and back Friday Evening.

This is my nephew Colby. Hi is just under 3 years old and he is a cute little guy. He is the one I put animal pictures in my blog for.

This is my niece Cristen. She is in eighth grade, plays several sports (quite well) and is a very good student. She does not talk to much, as she is your typical teenager with the Ipod in her ears most of the time.

This is my Dad and his girlfriend Ann. Dad just turned 84 on the 14th -- Happy Birthday DAD!!!!

Derek was spared hearing all the same stories again as Ann brought her granddaughter Emily to dinner. The two of them got along well and enjoyed some pool and shuffleboard at the local Moose club after dinner.

On Saturday night we got together at Nancy's house and ordered in some Chinese food. This is a shot of myself, my Dad, and two of my sisters -Nancy on the left and Jeanne on the right.

All pics can be made bigger by just double clicking them.

I have made it easy to post a comment. Just click and then hit anonymous (you can sign your name in the comment)

Skiing Days 2 & 3

2008-03-09T13:50:00.001-07:00

The sky was blue, the temperatures were just right and the ice on the trees was simply beautiful. The quietness of the woods was only disrupted by the ice as it warmed and slowly broke off the trees.

Everywhere we looked we were treated to a crystally sight. Though you hate to see the trees break it is God's way to prune and keep the forest with room for new growth.

Derek was really fortunate as both his boots and skis from the rental shop were brand new.

Derek crossed a major milestone this trip on Friday. He skied the double black diamond trail- "LIES" for the first time. He actually went down it 3 times. This pic does not truly depict the pitch of this trail. It is quite steep.

We spent our first day with friends Ed & Margaret. Ed will turn 70 this year and skis very well. It was reported he was seen catching air off a small jump. Margaret is a smooth skier carving symmetrical turns the whole way down. They are both poster children for the active retirement.

This is the old gondola from Gore..it ran from the bottom to the summit - a long peaceful ride.

We had two more days of skiing and overall 2 GREAT days and one that was marginal. On Friday the weather was awesome and the snow was fabulous. We skied the steep stuff and well as the cruisers and had a blast. On Saturday the weather was foggy, then sleet then rain so we cut it short.

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skiing in NY Day 1

2008-03-06T14:40:00.000-08:00

This is Derek, (mikes son) and today I'm writing the blog. We had a great day of skiing at Gore Mountain. We were skeptical about how the conditions were going to be but our skepticism was soon taken away by great snow and great people to ski with.

The scenery was breathtaking. and it was clear with barely a cloud in the sky the temperature was amazing, slightly warm but not warm enough to melt the snow to bad.

Recently there was an ice storm at Gore and the birch trees were covered in over half an inch of ice. The snow banks were huge on the streets near both of my grandpas houses.

Spring time is fun

2008-03-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

We got in Four nice bike rides this week which is what we shoot for and usually do unless the weather does not cooperate. Our Friday ride took us through the bike path at the start and then wound south of Ocala.

This shot is taken at Lake Joy in the Silver Springs Shores area. Notice Jackets and vests it was 30 degrees in the early AM but by 9:30 it was in the 50's

Saturday AM it was warm enough to ride at 8:30 and we headed west of town. This was a big set of horns on this cow and is included for my nephew Colby who loves animals.

The next two pics are taken at clients homes in Top of the World... both Ruth and Mary were out gallivanting and thus unable to have a brief visit... our ride went through their sub division and we stopped to say "Hi" -- sorry we missed you guys.

The azaleas and knock out roses were in full springtime bloom and we enjoyed the sites that we were provided with. I am glad that God is creative.

We got some free tickets to go and watch the Gator Basketball game against Mississippi State late Saturday afternoon. We picked up Michael and Cayce and went to the game and enjoyed a bite to eat afterward before heading back to Ocala.

It is always nice to walk around campus and enjoy the energy and of course nice to see Mike & Cayce. Most of you know but they are getting married on July 12th.

Sunday after church we met Bernice's nephew John, his girlfriend, his Mom and her boyfriend, and Bern's Mom for lunch. They were down for Bike Week.

After lunch I showed them a bit more scenic route back to Daytona and played tour guide most of the way. We headed down route 42 through Deland. It was nice both to see them and ride with them as well.

Good Friends and Weather

2008-02-24T13:46:00.001-08:00

Got a call that Cullie was in town and wanted us to come for dinner on Friday evening. His daughter Sara made a great dinner and some good conversation was had over the meal and for several hours afterwards. It was good to see him; he came back in country because his Mom had a stroke- please pray for her.

On Saturday we enjoyed a visit from "Uncle Gary" who rode across the country with us this summer. He was accompanied by Sharon his wife. Mike and Cayce came we enjoyed lunch and supper with them. Gary and Sharon are in Florida till the end of March before they head back to Wisconsin.

With the weather so nice we were unsure what mode of transportation to use (see the sign) -- although the horse one would have been difficult since we do not have a horse.
We headed out on a nice leisurely ride on Friday morning and it stretched till lunch as we meandered some of the nice back roads in our county; passing lakes, horses and some cows.
Marion County is noted for its horses but there are some cattle as well. They were so excited someone was paying attention to them they came over to say hello.
This one wanted his nose scratched and a close up taken.
As this picture denotes we are not above asking if we can take a photo should an interesting subject come along. These were some fancy golf carts for sale in Summerfield. He had a wide selection and I took several shots of them.

On a closing note.... we have had over 2,000 visitors to the site and only a handful of comments... I changed the settings so you just have to click (comment) and type. If you do it that way sign your name so we can tell who you are.

Have a great week

Ahhh.... this winter weather...

2008-02-16T16:47:00.001-08:00

This morning it was about 60 degrees out and we had 5 of us who got together for a road ride. Pictured here Derek, Bernice, John, Don & Me. We rode 42 miles and it was a delightful ride. Just a tad cool to start then sunny with a light wind.

The azaleas are in bloom which makes everything in town very pretty. They are all over the town. here are just a few of the ones in our yard

We bought ours years ago and they were marked with the color bloom they were to produce but I think we did not see that as we have all different colors in the yard.

I was a little short of photographic material for this week so I am going to feature my hometown of Johnstown NY. Here is the house I grew up in... my Dad has lived there most of his life and he will be 84 in March

This is the Junior High School I attended. It was funded by a grant from the Knox Gelatin family hence the name Knox Junior High School.

This is the church I attended as a youngster. It was a Presbyterian church that was huge and had lots of cool passageways in it.

These last two are a little snack shop in town. My paper route used to end here and I would sometimes get a treat.

This is Jean the proprietor she was there when I was 14 & 15 and was still working there part time when I visited and took this picture last September

Back in Sunny Florida

2008-02-10T17:08:00.000-08:00

Our flight back home was uneventful which is just what you hope for when you fly - On time and luggage arriving when you do. It was nice to get back to Florida.

We had a nice sunny day with temperatures in the mid 70's. After church, lunch and a nap I straddled the FZ6 and fired her up. I then headed out for a leisurely ride through the Ocala National Forest for about and hour and a half. It was a great afternoon for a ride.

I took this picture of my helmet and exhaust. The white sticker is from the Tail of the Dragon a road that sits on the TN / NC border with 318 turns in 11 miles.

It is good to be home and see the boys and sleep in my own bed. I am looking forward to going to work tomorrow.

Utah .... last day Friday

2008-02-08T16:42:00.001-08:00

Had a great day at Powder Mountain skied ALL day hitting a lot of untracked powder. It was clear as the pictures will show but it was a bit breezy on the chairlifts.

With the sky blue and the Powder pretty decent (it was a tad wind blown in places) it was a great day to ski

I spent most of the day skiing with a guy named Brian from Manhattan Beach California and then at lunch met up with Eric & Kitty and the 4 of us skied the rest of the day together.

This is Kitty & Eric from Seattle they were staying at our hotel and we enjoyed dinner together several times. They are both very good skiers and pushed my limits in the powder. I told them they were cheating since they had rented FAT powder skis (grin)

They were having a Kite skiing clinic and competition on the mountain yesterday. Not sure how they did it with the very strong winds we had yesterday

Looking forward to getting home this evening and seeing the boys and our dog pepper.

Utah Thursday Feb 7th

2008-02-07T20:52:00.000-08:00

The lodge at Snowbasin is not your normal ski lodge. This is the chandelier in the massive ceiling there. We had a good day of skiing there today despite skiing in a blizzard most of the day.

Here are a few pics taken in our hotel. There are no outdoor shots today as it was basically a blizzard... I have not seen the snow totals yet but it was coming all day and very windy.

We skied at Snowbasin because the have gondolas to get you up the hill without having to be in the elements which is a good thing when it is blowing. This is a pc of the loft in our hotel.

Here is a view out our window. It is so pretty here everywhere you look it looks like a post card.

Finally tonight we enjoyed an excellent meal with BOTCH. A guy I met from a motorcycle forum I am a member. We had a great meal and conversation with Botch and his girlfriend. Nice to meet you BOTCH.
I am not sure how tall he is but remember I am 6'1" myself.

Another day in Utah

2008-02-06T18:13:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I hooked up with a mountain host named Jerry. He took me some places on the mountain I had not been to before. He made the morning very enjoyable.
Today we took a day off and visited the Hill Aerospace Museum in Ogden. It was a nice break from all the skiing.
We saw planes from the Wright brothers up to modern times.

Tonight we went to a little restaurant called Eats of Eden.. the food was OK but the snow in the entrance and the icicles were really cool.
be sure to ckick on this pic to enlarge it I have never seen them bend like this one.
We have been really in awe at the snow and mountains... I think God has a really diverse sense of beauty and we are enjoying it.

I have changed the settings as to comments .... now it should be very easy to comment so please leave a comment.

Bonus Post ... vacation will do that for you

2008-02-05T15:51:00.000-08:00

We have had 3 good days of skiing so far. They have had over 50 inches of snow since we have been here. If you look in this pic you can see the phenomenon of the sparkly snow they have here.

Today was a sunny day and we were able to ski at Powder mountain. The snow was almost TOO deep for our normal width skis. You should see the width of locals skis. I had a blast today and Bernice skied today up till after 3pm.

The snow is stuck to all the trees... and everything in is a virtual winter wonderland.

We are now a day or so since the last storm and there is still a BUNCH of untracked powder.
I will try to post some more in the next couple of days as I have Internet available

BY THE WAY ,,, as I hoped... the GIANTS are now SUPERBOWL CHAMPS... YIPPEE

Eden Utah

2008-02-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

Well it is time for our winter ski trip and this year it is just Bernice and I. We flew in yesterday and the it has been snowing since. We are staying in the Red Moose Lodge in Eden Utah.

This is a car from out parking lot this AM... they arrived when we did. I was ready to take the shuttle to Powder Mountain this AM and then came the word that the MOuntain was closed --Too Much Snow

I instead drove to Snowbasin-- very glad I rented and AWD vehicle. This is a pic of some of the mid-thigh powder I was skiing in today.

THe views at the mountain were very pretty unfortunately it was snowing so hard I did not shoot many pics there.

I did make some new friends today when the Powder shuttle was grounded I gave Lisa and Michelle from Wisconsin a ride to Snowbasin. They proved helpful in cleaning the car and conversation.

The views at our Hotel are just breathtaking. Piles of snow, icicles, snow laden trees. This is the pretty side of winter.

Here are two videos I shot this afternoon.

a little late but a 104 fever will do that to you

2008-01-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday I flew to NY to visit family and friends.... got in a few days of skiing and came home with a high fever...hence a little late making my weekly post.

here is a little video I took to show the snow covered trees....

I was able to enjoy a dinner the second evening home with my nephew and his Fiance.... they will be married this summer in July.

As a follow up to this summers through the bike frame photos I thought I would try a through the skis photo.

This is a pic of Ed & Margaret two of the folks I ski with when I go to NY. They are both good skiers as I type this they are at Steamboat in Colorado for two weeks, a true picture of the active retirement lifestyle.

Baketball and the Ididaride

2008-01-20T16:41:00.000-08:00

This week was another full of Basketball games. Derek is now just over 6'5" and he is getting used to his height; more rebounds, blocked shots and baskets made. They won one of the three games to take their record to 12 wins and 3 losses. They only have 2 more games this season. Notice his hand size on the basketball in the picture.

Saturday the 19th was the Ididaride bicycle "race". I put it in quotes because technically they call it an endurance event but when you put 350 people at point A --- say GO --- and everyone heads to point B it is a race. They keep track of everybody at each checkpoint and tell you how many people have come through ahead of you.
We encountered HEAVY rain and 43 at the start and rain off and on with a high of 49 throughout the 50 miles of off road riding.

I rode the ride with 2 friends John and Tommy we finished 9th including the 3 guys that passed us while we were changing my flat tire. It was cold and wet as we traversed down trees and stream crossings not to mention many large 6"+ deep puddles.

Both John and Tommy had numb feet from the conditions ... mine were wet but the smart wool blend socks kept me reasonably warm. My rain jacket which got no workout on the cross country ride sure got it's workout Saturday.

Tommy is a very strong rider was there for a group endeavor so even though he could have come in first he rode with John and I often providing comic relief.
I was pleased to finish 9th I was hoping for a top 30 out of the 350 registered. There were some who came but did not ride due to the conditions and I did not wait around to see how many there were at the finish. I do know that after we finished ...showered.... and ate the BBQ chicken dinner provided... there were still alot of riders finishing.

The bikes held up well; other than one flat tire we had no issues. If you look at the mud and such on the shifting mechanisms it is amazing how well they functioned

It was nice to finish 9th against all age groups covering 50 miles at 50 years old.

January Basketball and preparation

2008-01-12T15:21:00.000-08:00

We had three basketball games this week- two away and one home game...All three were victories and their record advanced to 11 wins and 1 loss. In last nights game Derek scored 7 points. Here is a video clip of last nights warm up and jump ball which Derek controlled.

Two of the guys that make Forest High School basketball fun are Coach Waters and "Coach" Floyd.

Coach Waters has been Derek's Coach for two years. He is an even tempered man who cares about the guys on his team. It has worked the guys play hard for him and the record speaks for itself.

"Coach" Floyd is a fixture at Forest High School, he graduated in 1977. He runs the clock for the team. I keep the score book so we work every home game side by side. His smile and positive attitude are contagious.

Training continues for the Ididaride continues. The 50 mile off road race is less than a week away. Today I did the last long ride prior to the event. I did a 43 mile ride off road.
Most of the time when I train I ride alone, primarily due to schedule and daylight availability. So a few years ago I added Gumby to the front of my bike so I could smile and tell Bernice I was not riding alone. (she knows and I do carry my phone in case of emergency).

Today's ride was with my neighbor and friend John who will be riding the Ididaride next week as well.

We had a good time negotiating the obstacles along today's route. Some of them provided us with opportunity to laugh. Next Saturday we will negotiate logs, bumps, dips and stream crossings.
It is only a bike ride and there are so many things to be thankful for. I wanted to mention some of them before a brief bit of levity. I am thankful for my wife of 27 years and both boys,for our health and the way God blesses us. I am thankful for friends both near and far and the way they help us grow. To Jeff, Tim, Tim, Cullie, Tom Harper,Bruce, Gary and Bob thanks for your friendship.

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A new year begins

2008-01-06T15:49:00.001-08:00

This week we welcomed in 2008 a new year of opportunity. This year should be a good one we have lots of neat stuff planned within the next 12 months. Several ski trips in the next couple of months, a bicycle trip to Holland . Michael has a big year planned,he is set to graduate from the University of Florida, join my financial planning practice in May , and get married July.

Bernice & I went to Inverness to look at some bike we are considering. They are made by a company called Co-Motion. They are coupled bikes that come apart and can be transported in a suitcase.
This will make it easier to travel and take our bikes with us.
If you click on the picture you will be able to see the couplings on the frame. This is not a flashy racing bicycle it is a workhorse, reliable and comfortable ride. It will take panniers(saddlebags) for touring.

While in Inverness we noticed some of their older buildings and could not help take a picture of the Courthouse. It is a neat little town.

Our roof is now on an looks great. He finished up the job this week.

We had a basketball game for Derek on Friday night. It was a close one decided in overtime. Derek scored 6 points in the second half and helped keep the momentum going for his team. They advanced their season record to 9 wins and 1 loss.

Feel free to leave a comment they are welcomed.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to you

Pictoral year in review

2007-12-31T13:43:00.000-08:00

Holiday Times

2007-12-30T11:09:00.000-08:00

During the holiday time Mike & I explored the whole Santos trail system and noted all the unique things bordering the trails. This car reminded him of his first car.. well not really.

We are in the midst of getting a metal roof. Our original roof lasted 19 years and this style is something Bern has wanted for a long time.

We enjoyed getting to spend time with Mike & Cayce and other family and friends during the past two weeks. Good conversation food and activities made for good memories.

The boys had a good time opening presents and hanging out together. It was fun times and laughter as they interacted.

Here is a video of Mike riding an elevated ramp at Santos. I told him risk reward factor was not worth me doing it.

Motrcycle trip Thursday 12/27 & 12/28

2007-12-29T19:18:00.000-08:00

Got in a short timewise (2 days /1 night) but long in miles 723 with some good friends this week. We left early Thursdday morning and heading first to the Front Porch in Dunnellon for some breakfast. Then we headed north on all backroads to south Georgia. Once north and east of Valdosta we headed west through Thomasville and then south once well west of Talahassee. We went all the wat to the Gulf of Mexico staying at Panacea, FL for the night.

The first day we had 4 of us ... Me on the FZ6 and another Mike on an FZ1 We also had Jim & Larry on Harley's. The first day we covererd 376 miles... after checking into the Condo we headed to Hook Wreck Henry's for some Oysters. There we were met by Allen and Steve (also on Harley's). We had a GREAT seafood dinner at Angelo's.

The next morning we were treated to a nice sunrise. We headed West along the Gulf. We had breakfast at a little lace called 2 Al's then headed further west ultimately looping north then east. We made it to Steinhatchie for a late lunch before heading home. The second day we covered 347 miles.

Here is a video along the coast on Friday AM.

Here are the pics:

Mountain Biking /Skiing / and time with Michael

2007-12-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

Derek went on a ski trip this week with Alethia (his church youth group). They went up on Wednesday and came home yesterday, giving him two full days and evenings to ski. They went to Winter Place in Beckley, West Virginia.

This picture is not indicative of the temperature it is as his Grandfather would say demonstrating he has not quite reached the top of Fool's Hill. Not sure if it was a dare or what but he and another boy skied down with no shirts. Derek made it without falling the other boy was not so lucky. He apparently had someone carry his Jacket down -- meaning at least he did not ride the lift up like this.

Michael and I covered over 40 miles in the woods in two days of riding. It was nice to ride with him as he rides a very similar style to myself. Not that... that should surprise you as I taught him from a pretty young age how to mountain bike.

When he was young I used to bribe him with nickles. Telling him if you can make it over an obstacle without touching your feet to the ground (dabbing) I will give you a nickle. It took me a while to realize he was playing me by acting nervous.

Now I have to plead with him not to do certain obstacles because they are too scary for me to watch. This led to some interesting business discussions while riding we talked about the "cost-benefit" principle.

As we ride we try to take time time to both notice and enjoy some of the sights. I am not sure of the story behind this mask but it matched Michaels Greatful dead jersey so we stopped for a photo.

Staying in line with the photo though the bike frame I did much of this summers cross country ride here is a banana spider and her web shot through Mike's Specialized S Works Epic frame

A short video showing a loopy section of a trail called John Brown at Santos

Finally a picture of Michael coming out of a cave that boarders the trail called Cowbone. I am not sure how deep it goes but it is deep.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Christmas is coming and so is some time off

2007-12-15T15:24:00.001-08:00

As of today we are 10 days from Christmas. I am done saying Happy Holidays.... dog gone it it is CHRISTmas and that is how I am greeting people this year no more saying Happy Holidays for me. I am done seeing clients for the year.. though I will still return calls and work a bit at home doing some planning for clients. I will also take some time to enjoy the season.

This week a client of mine sent me a cool snowman... one on a bicycle. She also gave a nice one to Bernice-- thanks to Mary & Craig Ehle. She is the niece of "Mean Betty Green" the math teacher from Knox

We got the tree up in the past week and we had 40+ people over yesterday a Christmas Open House. It went very well. This year we introduced Cayce to the clients and she did a great job of chatting with them and helping the event to go well. With Derek Michael Cayce Bernice, Susan (my assistant) and I pitching in we were all able to enjoy the
party.
It will be nice to have the kids at home for at least part of the time during the Holidays. Mike has to work his job at Sonny's but will be home a good part of the time.

Today the training continues for the Ididaride. There are now 34 days till the event. Today my neighbor John and I headed to the Landbridge.I was a 20+ mile ride. We are blessed with a really cool Trail system just 3 miles from our door.

It is part of the Cross Florida Greenway. We can acutally ride about 20 miles of singletrack one way from the trailhead.
Today was warm almost 80 degrees and the dirt was flying and we had a blast.

The patch is one I wear on my Harley vest in honor of my friend Jack Hennessy. Jack died a little over 2 years ago. I miss him at this time of year as we always spent Christmas morning together.

Basketball and Meetings with friends

2007-12-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

It was a busy week for Derek and his basketball team. They had three games the first one first was an away game in Gainesville against Eastside (one of the best teams they will play). They also had two games at home. Their record improved to 6 wins and no losses. if you are wondering where the pictures of the basketball are... I am the official scorekeeper so I am writing in the book non stop during the game-- keeping track of who scores what, who had how many fouls and how many time outs are left.

I did fit in 2 half days and one whole day of meetings with friends of mine. Each year we meet someplace and spend several days bouncing ideas and strategies for our respective practices. The main topics we covered this time were portfolio profit targets, Exchange traded funds, and integrating Michael and ultimately Derek into my practice.

Wes is from Tallahassee. We have been friends for many years. Johnny (pictured with Wes) is from Idaho Falls, Idaho. We actually spent a night in Idaho Falls on our cross country bicycle trip this Summer. We were treated to a feast put together by Johnny and his wife Michelle.

Dave is from Michigan. He is the comic and the analytic in the group. An interesting combination. We met while we all used to do consulting for American Express in Minneapolis. We laugh alot and are not shy to push the limits - no idea is scoffed at or accepted without careful bantering of the pros and cons

Though this weeks post is not full of fabulous pictures it gives you a peek into some close friends who make the fabric of life stronger. We have known each other for 8 or nine years and have pushed each other, challenged each other and all become better at meeting our clients needs as a result of this friendship.