IronGambit Going Global>>>

White Balance "why?"

2010-02-09T01:03:00.003-06:00

Water Features & Bridges
Originally uploaded by IronGambit

This photo is another entry for a Nikon D40/40x/60 weekly themed contests that I love to do.

The funny part is that I wanted to talk about the advantages of using Adobe Bridge, and my shot just happened to be a bridge!

One of the greatest benefits of shooting in RAW instead of JPEG and using Adobe Bridge to view and edit all of your photos is the auto white balance.

White Balance seems to be such a HUGE issue when it comes to photography. A lot of times when you see photos that appear to be yellow, it is because that's the actual color of the room, and or the environment around you.

"WE" see it as white since we've become so accustomed to it, so teaching your camera the difference is a huge pain and the white balance can quickly change with just a cloud moving over head.

So I don't really worry about the white balance, which is a HUGE weight off of my shoulders, and I just change it in Adobe Bridge, I would say that the accuracy is 97% correct, in fact - since I've discovered it, I would say that I've only felt like the white balance was only off one time!

As the white balance does not seem to make a large difference at a quick glance, this is definitely the difference from an everyday photo that "anyone" can take , to creating a photo how it should be and showing your true knowledge of your equipment and photography.

Blog writer

2010-02-04T01:42:00.001-06:00

Ok , so i was able to find an app to
My phone where I can update my blog pretty easily from it. I can't upload photos to it, but I think that it will help make the blog more up to date faster , some of the main reasons on why people love facebook so much to begin with :)

I know it's pretty late , but it hit me while I was laying in bed, I pretty much spent the entire day rock climbing with some pretty cool friends.

It is very challenging and a some what inexspensive sport, but it is definetly not as accessible as cycling running and photography!

IMG_0188.JPG

Max Hall - Photoshoot

2010-02-03T12:08:00.002-06:00

Max
Originally uploaded by IronGambit

I had a photoshoot with Max Hall last night, he's a nice quiet young man, easy to work with and not full of words - you know like me?

Anyway, on our walk out to the basketball court I got him to open up a bit, this is kind of important I feel like in order to get some great shots together, the way the model/subject feels is very important , and that can easily reflect in their photos.

It was going to be a pretty quick shoot, because I already knew what I wanted and I had only promised him one good photo ;)

I actually had wanted the lines for the basketball court, but after a decent snow fall the night before that changed my plans pretty quickly.

Anyway, in the end you can't always predict your environment, and the photo still didn't come out too bad!

Bokeh Tamron 17-50mm 2.8

2010-02-01T15:30:00.003-06:00

Blue Bokeh Tree
Originally uploaded by IronGambit

right now people in the photography world are obsessed with "Bokeh" as well as I am.
Most photographers are using "prime" lens with a wide aperture to create effects and backgrounds such as this.
I opted to go with an off brand in this case and I am using a Tamron 17-50mm 2.8

the 17-50 just gives me more options and has a SUPER wide range, this works for me personally because it allows for me to stand closer to a model/subject and am able to capture everything that I want in the photo without loss of details.

The lens is also great for macro photography, and of course landscape, architecture, and night photography if you do not carry around a mountable flash such as an SB-600 or higher. Sometimes shots without flashes have a really nice effect, and if you are outside, it's hard to find places to bounce the light off of to begin with.

I do not know for sure, but can only imagine that the flash would wash out the background/Bokeh which is something that we are trying to capture.

As I play around with more night photography PLUS this lens, I'll let you know how it works out.

NOTE: I have the Tamron 17-50mm 2.8 lens without the built in motor, so it will not autofocus on the Nikon D40/D40x/D60/D3000 or D5000, since these are smaller body cameras and are built more for portability and work decently well with the stock lens the Nikon 18-55 Vibration Reduction lens.

So I have to manually focus the lens, which I actually don't mind too much and kind of like a lot. This gives me a LOT more control of my Depth of Field (DOF) and get effects that I want vs an auto focus. We will say that I am NOT chasing after a bunch of soccer players on a field, but more with models and inanimate objects and I will be able to get the best shot with a really good lens from it.
Also, because I am focusing it manually, the shutter speed, is VERY fast and very quick, this is also another plus another reason I believe that I like it so much!

Tamron has come out with a new lens that has (VC) Vibration Control, but you really don't need it with wide range lenses so much as you really do for zoom lens.

Photograhy

2010-01-31T17:32:00.001-06:00

paul
Originally uploaded by IronGambit

I know that I've been a way for a long time, I guess it was because I felt like since I've come off of "The Road" I might have felt like my life is more boring, OR I feel like facebook has taken a lot of readers and have killed a lot of the blog world.

I guess I've been persuaded by someone that is very important to me to continue the blog, even and probably it will on be for myself.

Anyway, I guess I am still a cyclists for sure, I've conquered the world of marathons, and it looks like I will be doing a lot of talking about photography now.

I've ALWAYS taken some decent photos to begin with, and always have gotten a lot of compliments for my photos, but my skill level has definitely advanced recently !

So I will start it off with a photo of my friend Paul , it was his birthday a couple of days ago and he asked me to join him for some indoor rock climbing, it was a lot of fun and look forward to going again!

Urban Outfitters Bike Shop | Build

2009-08-17T00:03:00.001-05:00

This is pretty sweet! Urban Outfitters are selling custom single speed bikes for 400 bucks! :)

Urban Outfitters Bike Shop | Build

Lance Armstrong to reunite with George Hincapie for Team RadioShack | Sport | guardian.co.uk

2009-08-14T13:45:00.001-05:00

I don't know if I would do this if I were Big George, but Lance and George should just get married already :)

Lance Armstrong to reunite with George Hincapie for Team RadioShack

Lance Armstrong to reunite with George Hincapie for Team RadioShack | Sport | guardian.co.uk

YouTube - Performance

2009-08-11T18:58:00.001-05:00

THIS VIDEO is awesome!

Performance

YouTube - Performance

No Flash vs. Flash

2009-08-10T16:36:00.001-05:00

No Flash vs. Flash

No Flash vs. Flash

Alumna sues college because she hasn't found a job - CNN.com

2009-08-08T12:30:00.001-05:00

Alumna sues college because she hasn't found a job

Alumna sues college because she hasn't found a job - CNN.com

New Tripod!

2009-08-07T21:46:00.001-05:00

I got a new tripod! So I can take shots like this! :)

This weeks photo "Themed" contest is called 30 second exposure. Click the photo for a larger and better view!

When Nintendo fanboys build TV sets

2009-08-06T12:59:00.000-05:00

Pretty funny :)

When Nintendo fanboys build TV sets

YouTube - Pi Kappa Alpha - Anchorsplash 2009 (Virginia Tech)

2009-07-25T22:33:00.001-05:00

Done with NYC and leaving back to Chicago , it was nice to be back in NYC but it is bad/weird/ or wrong that I recognize so much and can navigate on my own around there? Is it also wrong that I've pretty much lost track on how many times I've been to NYC now? It seemed not that long ago that I was naive to the large city, lets just say that a lot has change!

I am on my way back to Chicago early in the morning! I also talked with US Olympic Athlete Matty Reed while I was there. Crocs sponsors him and he uses our recovery shoes after he's done racing, so that's my relation with him. Probably the most embarrassing moment I had was when I "thought" he had left, so I grabbed a donut, as I turn around to put the donut in my mouth, here comes good ol' Matty Reed and was like "ayy!" haha, BUSTED/embarrased/ and left ashamed when an US Olympic Athlete calls you out at the NYC Triathlon !

I saw this video at the hotel that I am staying at right now, and I thought that it was cool enough to share if with you guys!

Pi Kappa Alpha - Anchorsplash 2009 (Virginia Tech)

YouTube - Pi Kappa Alpha - Anchorsplash 2009 (Virginia Tech)

Team Astana Trivia

2009-07-23T11:03:00.001-05:00

What country is Astana from?

*hint* Borat! hahah

Crazy Basketball Tricks | Viralskool

2009-07-20T14:08:00.001-05:00

These are some seriously crazy basketball tricks, trust me, you do NOT have to be a basketball fan to appreciate these skills!

Crazy Basketball TricksFor: Spread Me

Crazy Basketball Tricks | Viralskool

Freire pushed air-rifle pellet out of his leg - Cycling - Yahoo! Sports

2009-07-19T12:21:00.001-05:00

Seriously? I've been to the Tour De France, I am first to admit that the people on the sidelines have NO respect to the riders!
They barely clear the course, literally MINUTES before the riders come through and are always yelling, screaming, booing, and spitting! POOR SPORTSMANSHIP!

Freire pushed air-rifle pellet out of his leg

Freire pushed air-rifle pellet out of his leg - Cycling - Yahoo! Sports

Behind the Scenes with Lance - Photos - SI.com

2009-07-17T00:07:00.002-05:00

When did Lance get so ripped on his upper body?

Behind the Scenes with Lance

Behind the Scenes with Lance - Photos - SI.com

Theme (Children) Submission WINNER! on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009-07-12T21:51:00.002-05:00

Yes!

So I am as happy as can be! I just received an e-mail tonight saying that I have officially won my first photo contest!
This weeks them has begun, and voting for last weeks will start late on Monday afternoon ! :)

BONUS - As a winner I get to pick a theme, any suggestions!?

Theme (Children) Submission WINNER!

Theme (Children) Submission WINNER! on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

YouTube - Tour de France 2009 - Stage 4 - Crash Jurgen Van den Broeck (Silence Lotto)

2009-07-10T09:36:00.001-05:00

I JUST saw this crash! The dude STARES at the front wheel while he is sliding, ROLLS out of the way, then stands up while wearing cleats!?

Tour de France 2009 - Stage 4 - Crash Jurgen Van den Broeck (Silence Lotto)

YouTube - Tour de France 2009 - Stage 4 - Crash Jurgen Van den Broeck (Silence Lotto)

The One and Only WiseCracker

2009-07-09T17:09:00.002-05:00

I don't drink, but I think that this is a great idea! haha
WiseCracker Bottle Opener

The One and Only WiseCracker

Monavie Cannondale » Blog Archive » Monavie-Cannondale @ The BC Bike Race

2009-07-09T15:55:00.002-05:00

Check out this sweet video that Tinker Juarez just posted on his blog!
Tell me if you see something there that rhymes with Orange? ;)

Monavie-Cannondale @ The BC Bike Race

Monavie Cannondale » Blog Archive » Monavie-Cannondale @ The BC Bike Race

Theme (Children) Submission on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009-07-07T11:25:00.002-05:00

Theme (Children) Submission on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

This was my photo submission for last weeks theme (Children)
I have a pretty good amount of votes already since voting opened late last night!
I think I might actually have a chance, and am very excited! I've recieved some genuine comments also and I'm not worried if I win or not :)

This weeks Challenge is (Abstract) I've taken several photos and I've submitted an entry already. All entries can be changed until the photo submissions close early Monday!

Let me know your ideas, and thoughts!

the Bean Bike on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009-07-06T10:44:00.002-05:00

Now that you know about my photography weekly "Challenges" last night in the middle of the night this weeks Theme appeared on FlickR. The Theme was or is "Abstract" I had a couple of ideas and wanted to test some shots out at "The Bean" in Chicago, I wanted to get the view of the city reflecting off of the bean as "abstract" I messed up in two ways, one I found out really fast that I brought the wrong lens, and two, after I took the photos I took the photos in RAW instead of JPEG. RAW is supposed to be the more superior format, but I don't have the software to open it. Luckily not all was lost since I was able to convert the formats on the camera.

So as I am riding my bike around The Bean, a security cop yells at me to not RIDE my bike to get off the bike and walk it. I ignore him and of course continue to ride off in the night. This was a security cop on foot, and not segway, those segways are pretty fast! The cop by foot had NO chance of catching me while I was on the bike.
hmm, maybe I should have passed him on his left? I am hoping to back tonight and hope to have everything lined up for for a better adventure and even better, to get the shot that I am looking for!

the Bean Bike on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

stolen bike

2009-07-05T15:51:00.001-05:00

This Crazy Ad I came across on Craigslist in the Chicago area!

stolen bike - $4 (humboldt?)

stolen bike

On Your Left Recap

2009-07-03T14:07:00.001-05:00

I know this is really bad and I probably should not blog about how I "honestly" felt, but I might as well have titled this blog post karma!

So here is how the story goes, I am on the bike path cruising around with my g.f. we are riding around just fine, and people are passing us no problem, "GOOD" no one is saying "on your left" which you guys know by now is a big pet peeve of mine.

So we are going up this small hill casually as a hear the screeching words on a chalk board "ON YOUR LEFT" of course he's riding a mountain bike with skinny tires on it and he is probably feeling jolly about himself,
the thing is for me is that they NEVER tell my g.f. on your left. I feel like they go out of their way to say it to me!

Anyway, I have strayed off the path again, as I watch him go up this rolling hill, in my head I am thinking how much I hate it, and I am just going to ignore it and not let it bother me, haha when
the guys left crank literally fell off while he was riding! I know this is mean, but it looked pretty damn funny! Since he was clipped in, the pedal kept smacking the ground and bouncing back up and he tried to keep from crashing and clipping out of his right foot at the same time!

This is probably one of the zaniest things that I have seen while out cycling! Anyway, I was the nice guy and stopped to offer my tools to help him put his bike back together! hahah

So all I can say is when is cycling, the wheel does make a full circle!

Mississippi's still fattest but Alabama closing in - Yahoo! News

2009-07-01T12:18:00.001-05:00

Mississippi's still fattest but Alabama closing in

Mississippi's still fattest but Alabama closing in - Yahoo! News

This is really really bad! The article is worth reading.

Side Lighting Contest Submission on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009-06-30T12:51:00.004-05:00

So I found this group on FlickR while looking around on the site, and I discovered a weekly "themed" photo contest!

I thought that this sounded like a lot of fun and I submitted my first entry. Voting began yesterday and I'm pretty much out of the running already. But I did not know much about "SIDE LIGHTING" the theme for last week, and I now have learned a lot thanks to the contest!
Every week is a theme, and I'll attempt to participate in as many contests as I can!

This was my submitted "SIDE LIGHTING" Photo:

Side Lighting Contest Submission on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

http://www.flickr.com/groups/nikond40challenge/discuss/72157620064056065/

The Weekend-

2009-06-29T10:36:00.001-05:00

I caught up on some much needed Rest and Relaxation, I got out to the bike path a lot and then just come general exploring around Chicago.

This past Sunday was pretty crazy out by the beach since the weather was so beautiful out. There were people everywhere and it's hard to stay indoors when it's like that!

Here are some more pics that I took yesterday while walking around my neighborhood.
Any picture can be clicked and taken to the Flickr site:

Across the street there is a huge chess set up, it draws a pretty decent crowd, there is a lot of hustling going on out there, so be careful with your money!

Here are some building shots:

Chicago is known for the old school look!

I really liked the last picture. Click on it to view it larger.
I will post the rest tomorrow plus some more news ! :)

Back on the Bike?

2009-06-28T09:15:00.001-05:00

So I have obviously been MIA from the bike scene for the last several years, well at least me physically riding, because I've seen the Tour De France, and the Tour of California plus made a lot of new friends in the industry.

With my bike in Chicago now, on the Lake Shore Path, and Summer, I really don't have a reason NOT to ride again. Although I do not want to neglect running!

Here are just a few creative shots that I took a couple of days ago.

The last one I used a flashlight haha :)

No Peddling -

2009-06-27T13:51:00.001-05:00

This sign confuses me when I am cycling ;) haha

On Your Left...

2009-06-25T11:45:00.001-05:00

So I went out for a nice bike stroll with my fiance this morning, I told her that it would be a causal ride, and since my bottom was sore from LACK of riding to begin with this was NOT a problem!

Chicago is very big city, and the path IS 22 miles long, you will see a lot of people out riding, running, swimming, walking, and roller blading, pretty much trying to take advantage of the perfect weather right now!

Anyway, I've gone off path,
As we are riding home I hear a small voice behind me yell out loud to me, "ON YOUR LEFT" as he 'barely' passes us, I laughed at his comment.

1.) Real Cyclists know never to say on your left for several reasons, the first being that you could scare the runner or other cyclists and they almost always end up vearing into your lane. and the second . . .

2.) Reason is that we all know how much of a weak attempt it is to make yourself feel stronger.

I in my mind maybe feel like since he was on a commuter bike, and he saw me in full gear on a Tri / TT bike, that maybe it made him feel better about himself. If that's the case, then by all means say "ON YOUR LEFT" to me more often ! :)

Chicago Views-

2009-06-23T07:44:00.001-05:00

Here is a picture that I took from my Apartment Roof Top, I pretty much get to see this every night and I am just a block under the streets to get to the Lake Shore Path to ride my bike or go for long runs.

The Lake Shore Path has 22 miles of paved path spooning the Lake...

as I now FINALLY have access to my new bike

I do not have an excuse to not ride around Chicago.
But as I walk around Chicago, it seems as if Bike, is the fastest way to get around here anyway!

Chicago , Chicago

2009-06-21T01:20:00.001-05:00

It's been a long several days, if you are friend of mine on Facebook, you have then probably seen my random rants with text messages from my phone and or photos of just random stuff of how long and what it took to make it up here.
From some special help that I recieved in Chicago, it only took about 45 minutes to unload the U-Haul.
The nice part is that we really did not have too much to carry from Texas to Chicago! I am not saying that I do not have a lot of "stuff" but the reality of all of that fitting in a Chicago apartment is very slim!
I will be posting pictures later down the road, but it was cool to watch fireworks off on the Navy Pier for the first time from the apartment tonight.

July 4th

2009-06-14T23:53:00.004-05:00

July 4th is right around the corner!!!

Lance Armstrong - Cycling Legend

YouTube - Lance Armstrong - Cycling Legend
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IF3vHjnXCe8

True Cyclists Shave their Legs!

2009-06-08T17:05:00.002-05:00

True Cyclists Shave their legs!

Stuff That Makes Me Chuckle

You know you're a triathlete when....

2009-06-08T15:27:00.001-05:00

You know you're a triathlete when....

When asked, how old you are you answer 20-24.

When asked how long your training was today you answer: three to four hours.

Your traning is more limited by available time then how far you can run.

Your first thought when you wake up is how high your rest HR is.

You go for a run eventhough there's a thunderstorm and you enjoy being wet and dirty.

You think it's natural to do your 'business' behind a tree in the woods.

You take part in the corporate challenge to improve your base speed.

You go for a 5 km cooldown run after a 5 km race just so that you can call it a training session.

You consider work, regeneration time between training sessions.

That something hard between your legs is usually a pull buoy

You have a water bottle when you drive your car.

You've forgotten how to drink out of cups.

You spend your 2 weeks annual vacation at a training camp.

You know inside out how much Protein each energy bar has.

You seriously consider applying for citizenship in Tonga, Jemen or Tschad so that you can participate in the olympic games.

When people praising you for being able to run 15 miles you're feeling insulted.

In the summer your legs are smoother than your girlfriend's.

In the winter your legs are still smoother than your girlfriend’s

You need a picture for a job application and you only have race pictures.

You use running T-shirts to clean your bike.

That charming "cologne" you wear to work is chlorine

You take more showers in a locker room than at home

6:30 am is sleeping in

the dog runs and hides when you get the leash!

You think there are only two seasons during the year, racing and off.

You shave way too many body parts for a guy.

You can't change the oil in your car but you can completly rebuild your bike in 45 mins

You spend more £ on training and racing clothes then work clothes

You spend 7 days going to 8 stores in 4 towns before buying a pair of running shoes but you take 1 afternoon to go to 1 car dealership and walk out with a new car 4 hours later.

when you see some lady watering her flowers and ask her if you can borrow the hose for a minute so you can fill up your water bottles.

You clean your bike more often than your car

You've been stung be a wasp or bee in your mouth but carried on running or cycling because "your split times won’t go down by themselves"

Your car smells like a locker room.

You have everything needed in your car to be Swimming, Biking or Running with 5 minutes notice.

When asked to mow the lawn in 90 degree heat, you say that its too hot to do that (and you mean it) and then an hour later you go on a century ride because its so nice out.

You tell your co-workers that you are going to "do a long brick" on saturday and just expect that they know what you are talking about.

When a co-worker asks if you are racing this weekend, you say "yeah, but I'm just running a 10k, so that is not REALLY a race".

You consider you bike saddle your "couch"

You consider Clif Bars as one of the four food groups

you are sick to your stomach at 2:00 in the morning and check the back of the Pepto Bismol bottle for caloric content and grams of carbohydrates, fat and protein.

you have plenty of water bottles, safety pins, and t-shirts.

You like going swimming the day after a race with the permenant penned number still visible on your legs and arms because the feel like a medal.

you have trouble keeping lunch under 2000 calories.

you usually wake up at 4:00 in the morning but do not get to work until way after 9:00.

you have a £4000 bike strapped on top of your £2000 car.

you have no trouble pushing a day's caloric intake to over 8000 calories.

you're always wet! Either sweat water, pool water, sea water, shower water, bath water or its p*****g down outside!

Instead of Marie Clare, People and Cosmo, you have piles of Runner's World in your bathroom.

your car has at least one Power Bar wrapper and two sets of work out clothes!
your kids idea of playing is a bike and run race followed by power bars, water bottles and awards ceremony.

your laundry continually smells like someone locked the cat in overnight...

you leave your apartment or house in the morning with your swim bag on one arm, bike on one shoulder, a change of clothes in another bag, and your running stuff in another bag in case you can get away at lunch for a workout.

you wave at other cyclists, because all triathletes are friendly and if they are not, they are probably purist cyclists trying to get into triathlons and they do not know that triathletes are friendly.

You have not one, not two, but three permanent chain ring scars on your right calf.

You are walking along a street and you signal left.

you can't decide what tee shirt to wear to your next race.

you have far more pairs of shoes in your closet than your non-tri wife does in hers

the one "suit" you own has orca written on the chest.

You wear your heart rate monitor during sex....

...and you keep within the right HR zone

you hear T2 and don't think of the film....

when "foreplay" is 15 minutes on a turbo trainer

your living room has the "swim pile" and the "bike pile" and the "run pile" and the "weight room pile" and you pick and choose kind of like a cafeteria on your way out the door.

your kitchen cupboards are organized into "protein", "carbs" and "etc"

you bring bottled water to a party so that you're properly hydrated for the next morning's long run, everyone else at the party also brought their own bottled water because you don't have a social life outside of triathlon. Oh yeah, and they all showed up by 7pm and left by 10pm.

your company announces mandatory unpaid shutdown days - every other Friday thoughout the summer - in order to cut costs and stay in business, and your response is "Great - now I can do two long workouts on the weekends and still have an easy day."

......but you dont!

your 8 year old comes home with the school record for the mile and says, he took it out in a nice pace he could hold.....everyone else died.

you fill your kids' water bottles with Cytomax instead of blue gatorade.

you can ask your mom and your sister and all other girlfriends for shaving advice.

no wait, they ask you for advice!

you say that you went to a race last weekend...and somebody responds "running or biking" and you are again forced to explain....

you wear your bathing suit under your work clothes to make a fast transition from work to swim on your lunch hour.

you show up at the neighborhood pool on your bike in a speedo and embarrass your teenage daughters.

Your idea of fast food is a power bar and SIS Go

somebody hands you a cup of water and you have to restrain yourself from pouring it on your head.

You catch yourself about to blow a snot rocket while walking around the office.

you forget that talking about daily LSD [Long Slow Distance] and speed weirds some people out.

you have no FRIGGIN idea what to do with yourself on your off day.

You feel like you took the day off because all you did was swim 3000 meters then go for a short run.

At any given moment you know exactly where your heart rate monitor and your swim googles are, but cannot remember where you left you car keys. (turns out 90% of the time they are in your bike bag)

Ice baths!

When non-racer friends tell you they ran/rode you automatically calculate their pace to see if you're still in better shape.

Cars pass you on the road when you're driving and you either drop back to get out of draft zone or speed up to attack!

You have no trouble converting mph into kmph

You've stopped buying high-heels because your feet are too swollen from long runs to fit in them anyways.

While your less athletically-inclined girlfriends are gorging themselves on plates of lettuce, you're occupying yourself with a plate of pasta and chicken (white meat, of course.)

Having a period has become less of a nuisance since menstrual cramps don't feel that bad when you're hunched over a bike.

You've stopped wearing dangly earrings because they just get in the way when you're ripping off your clothes to squeeze "just one more" workout into your already cramped schedule.

Your girlfriends are insanely jealous of your tan legs. Until they realize that the tan stops at your bike shorts.

You've given up trying to go on training runs/rides with your boyfriends because they don't take it too well when you kick their butt.

Your best girl friend gets a new bike and tells you that it's a really pretty shade of blue. You get a new bike and can tell her the chain ring ratios.

When checking out guys on the street/at the mall your friends notice eyes, hair, build. You notice if they have shaved legs, if they have runners/bikers legs, and if they're wearing a race t-shirt.

When a Crocodile Eats the Sun

2009-06-04T12:53:00.001-05:00

I have finally finished this book!
I have had this book for several months and it has followed me around from Europe and back, which I never finished until now.
I don't know what took me so long, as I have been pretty busy traveling a lot plus my job, running, and moving into Chicago took up a lot of my time. I have STILL had this before BEFORE all of that chaos!

Either way, the book is complete.
Now for the review:

At first the book started off kind of too dry for my taste or likes, but I had just come from reading several amazing reads and this book had A LOT of competition to be compared to!
So only into the last 25 percent of the book for "me" again, did I find it to be worth it. The ending is very sad, and pretty much the entire book is very sad. It makes you realize what we take for granted, and the resources that we have in America vs Africa.
The book called "When a Crocodile Eats the Sun" means, that when there is a Solar Eclipse, that the Gods are mad and that's why a crocodile eats the sun at this time.

What I did really enjoy was the way that the writer described things in his books, whether it be a persons hand, face, their town, cars, or cities, I really liked his examples to make you feel like you were part of the book!

I have made several more book purchases while I was in Phoenix, AZ. I will let you know when I start my next read soon ! ;)

When a Crocodile Eats the Sun on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Something Worth Sharing

2009-05-31T01:15:00.000-05:00

Thought this was funny enough to share!

Stuff That Makes Me Chuckle

More pics that you'll not see in South Texas!

2009-05-27T02:47:00.000-05:00

mass transportation, we probably only see buses but we will NEVER see subways above or below ground in South Texas.

I helped out with the LA Marathon this weekend, and once I get back to California, I'll be helping out again with the San Diego Rock & Roll Marathon.

I ran this marathon last year, but this year I really do not want to run any full marathons. The only one that I have considered running as a full would be the Marine Corps Marathon that is held in D.C.

It is a beautiful run, in a beautiful city, in a beautiful time of the year, but most importantly.. I would run it for my father who serves 20 years and retired from the United States Marine Corps.

Things you Never see in South Texas!

2009-05-19T13:18:00.001-05:00

I've added another folder in my FlickR account, I call it the "Things you Never see in South Texas!" Since I have actually been in the same place for awhile, of course minus my trips to Nashville, Indiana, Michigan and Los Angeles this weekend, I seem to compare Chicago to The Valley, whether this is on purpose or on accident, "I'm sure it's on accident, I laugh at some things I feel like Chicago needs, and then there are others things that I wish The Valley had going for them.
So while I am out driving, riding, or running around, I will do my best to capture photos of these "things"

We can easily say that House Centipede was one, but Bike Parking and a covered area, wouldn't that be such a beautiful site to see in South Texas?

Extreme Weather

2009-05-16T19:17:00.001-05:00

Since I've lived here for the past month or so I have been caught in a lot of different weather extremes, lately the weather has been nice floating around the 60's which I think that Chicago deserves right about now!
Even today the weather is more than perfect, but yesterday, was the perfect storm!
It rained five inches in rain yesterday!

Like my friend MarcoV once said, "it looks like we are driving under water"
and I believe we were in Chicago when he said that :)

Above, is a water drain in the middle of a MALL parking lot! I found it to be pretty crazy as I saw it while I was driving around trying to find a closer parking spot! :)
The last photo is a video, I believe you have to click on it to work it!
But speaking of that great weather today, as opposed to yesterday, I am going out to put in another 6 mile run.

House Centipede !

2009-05-15T21:07:00.001-05:00

what the!?

I have found a couple of these at the place I am staying at in Chicago!
It took me several days to find out what type of bug this was, and trust ME,
it's A LOT scarier to see in person!

I found this one crawling on my box of gummy bears, while I was watching TV :)

My NEW Running Jersey!

2009-05-11T22:58:00.001-05:00

The best part about this shirt is that a cop stole it and gave it to me!
I love the little stick like figures and the simple MS Word editing! hahah

Grand Rapids , Michigan

2009-05-07T11:32:00.001-05:00

I am off and on the road to Grand Rapids, Michigan, there is a race there this weekend and I was going to run the 10k. There is a 25k, but I was thinking maybe I should lower my miles a bit for now so that I can last through the summer! ;)

Anyone else running a 10k this weekend?

Last Minute

2009-04-26T21:12:00.002-05:00

I decided less than 12 hours before the Rock & Roll Nashville Marathon that I was going to participate! :)

I guess it's not that unusual for me anymore :)

There was a tragedy on the course this year, he crossed the finish line right behind me and then collapsed, we all obviously don't know the entire story, but all I can say is if you are not finishing first it's not worth it to push your body to such extremes. I see people collapsing and puking all the time since I followed marathons around the US.

In reality the HARSH reality, no one cares about your time except for you, do the events for fun, and be there for the crowd, the excitement and the environment.

I am obviously not the best example, but everyone should get checked up, with all the lay offs and slow economy marathons and half marathons are filling up left and right, and I COMPLETELY
encourage it, but I also encourage safety !

http://www.newschannel5.com/global/story.asp?s=10249198

Indiana , Indianapolis

2009-04-19T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's weird , only a year or so ago I never thought that I would be living in driving distance to so many other states!

It took me only three hours to make it to downtown Indy, and that would only get me a little more than half way to San Antonio! which is STILL in Texas!

I have a really really REALLY long day planned a head for me tomorrow, I plan on starting the day off with a 6 mile jog in the morning. I plan on hitting 10 accounts, my company usually wants for me to do 5 a day, which is unrealistic in the first place just to give you an example of my day, and just for kicks, I'll end up with another 6 hours of driving in the mix! It will not be a continuous drive, but it will be a lot of driving none the less!

See you at the finish line! ;)

Sea Otter Classics

2009-04-18T12:09:00.001-05:00

so , I did not and I am not going to the Sea Otter Classics.
I am probably looking at going to Nashville next week to run the half marathon there!

I am sad because I've been to the Tour De Frace, Tour of California, and Interbike in Las Vegas, all big and grand cycling events!

But this year I would be able to make it to Monterey, CA , I just wouldn't be able to make it back! it looks like I have something to look forward to attend next year huh?

I will probably be going out to Starved Rock to do some more exploring and site seeing this weekend.
I did look up geocaches and there is only one there in the entire park. It's ok, I will still go to the park since it's such a nice scenery and it's really not that far away from the city!
I will have another busy week Mon-Wed, hopefully trying to complete everything so that I can make it to Nashville for the half marathon.
Nashville is the second part to the Rock & Roll series.
I haven't gone for a run in a looong time, but .. that really has never held me back to begin with !

Starved Rock Park

2009-04-12T19:03:00.002-05:00

I did not spend Easter weekend at home in Texas, this seems normal for me now not to be with my immediate family for the holidays, since I have been on the road for so long.

I did check out a nearby park this weekend!
It's called Starved Rock.
Yes, I took a lot of pictures!

Starting with Silly head :)

There were A LOT of water, streams, bridges, and waterfalls!

Ed, just so that you know, Road Kill here are GEESE or DEER,
not snakes and turtles mixed with some possums !

Above: All the recent talk about pirates, I did not walk the plank on this one!

A SMALL attempt HDR, but I still need help with this also Ed!

It's A LOT of pictures, because I NEVER really hold back! haha
but hopefully I'll be going back to explore the rest of the park beacuse I only had a chance to explore part of it.
I am fine with this so that I would have an excuse to go back anyway! I also avoided geocaching so that I could have yet another reason to go back.
I hope that everyone had a great easter weekend!

Live Strong VIdeo

2009-04-09T00:55:00.001-05:00

I got this video from Jahowies blog, but this is worth spreading and passing around.
My mom beat breast cancer several years ago and I admit and not ashamed to say that this video made me cry.
Watch it:

Embedded Video

Quiet Weekend

2009-04-06T11:16:00.002-05:00

So I had the weekend off, this will take some time getting used to, since I'm used to be at full speed on the weekends!
I watched a lot of TV and fixed a flat that I got on my car, which is one of the reasons I didn't want a car!
But I need it for work, I spent pretty much most of my free time on reports and photo submissions for work also. I think now that I have gotten past the first week, keeping up with all of the reports and photos will be a lot faster, and easier to handle, now that I really know what I am up against!
It snowed last night, but this morning most of it has already melted away. It's suppose to be pretty damn cold the rest of the week!

Maybe I'll take some more pics during the day while I am driving around. It depends how I am doing on time since I actually have someone to get home to tonight!

Sexy Bike RACK

2009-04-04T14:14:00.001-05:00

While in NYC to watch the Phantom of the Opera a couple a weeks ago, I came across by far, the sexiest bike rack in the world !

New Car!

2009-03-31T18:42:00.002-05:00

Well, new to me!

I just bought a new car, for my new job, for my new bike, with the same company!

I really like the fact that I paid for the car in cash. I also like that the car is worth less than my bike!

My welcoming to Chicago by the weather has been pretty chilly, cold, wet, & snowy, if that's a word. It also has been pleasant, I say pleasant because the people that live here, are all very out going, and are happy to welcome you to their beautiful city!
I'll update more later, and hopefully with pics! :)

I am not (cheap) I am just Frugal! - Marco Valdez

Adam is Right

2009-03-28T21:48:00.001-05:00

It's sucks that I have to not update for three weeks to get one comment from Adam! :)
But anyway, here is the 411 on what's new!
number one, when I updated with a Trek bike pic, I ended up not getting that bike since there was a communication error with my friend.
But I eventually did find a bike that I felt matched my personality.
I ended up getting a triathlon bike a "Felt B2" I really liked the color scheme and I think that's what attracted me to the most to it plus the components!
I picked the bike up from Roger Soler in the San Antonio area. he owns three bike shops there and is an ex Olympic champion!
He picked me up from the airport, let me spend the night at his house, took me to his shops, lunch and then dropped me off at the airport.

As I blogged in the past, and the main reason that I have been so busy, I basically have taken a new job with the same company. I am now based in the Greater Chicago area and got here a couple of days ago.
More Later...

Orange County then Vegas

2009-03-11T19:07:00.001-05:00

Last week I was in Orange County, and then hitched a ride to Vegas for a day.
I hooked up with Troy there from Cannondale and we rode BootLeg canyon while in Vegas! It is an aggressive, yet do able and FUN trail! I'll want to go back for sure in the future!

I am in NYC right now with the g.f. :)
We just finished watching the Phantom of the Opera!

The Tour of California Pics

2009-03-08T22:42:00.001-05:00

I know that this is late also, BUT

Here they are :)

I got pretty much a front row seat, and VIP access since I am good friends with Mr. Shimano. I know that sounds weird, and still sounds weird to me also, but he's really a down to earth wholesome guy!

I also know that this is A LOT of pics!
But check them out, enjoy them just like I enjoyed taking them.
I am in Phoenix right now,
I've been to Orange County, and Vegas which I will post pics for later also.

Today IS

2009-03-01T13:07:00.001-06:00

My birthday, and NOT my birthday haha :)

Today IS

2009-02-28T15:35:00.001-06:00

My birthday, and NOT my birthday haha :)

Twitter.com

2009-02-25T00:36:00.001-06:00

So Mr Adgerton feels that I need twitter, he claims that I have a strong online presence, and that I should be using this software/tool/webpage ? He actually went out of his way to make an account for me!

I don't understand it that much. I prob need a day to sit down and play with it to get it better.

SO,
if you have twitter, follow me? or add me? however that works and help me understand it!
Mr Edgerton, how do you feel now? ;)

San Antonio Calaveras Duathlon

2009-02-24T11:18:00.001-06:00

These are mostly pics of me playing around with my new camera. The shots are fifty / fifty when I am trying to get what I want!
This is not a point and shoot type of camera and it takes me a lot longer to take one photo, and I have to take a lot more. I am beginning to understand the difference and the importance of both as I play more and more with the camera!

I was also at the Final Stage of the ToC (Tour of California) and will post those pics later!

Rock Racing 2009 - Rock is not Dead

2009-02-22T00:45:00.001-06:00

Will someone cure me of my rediulous obsession of Rock Racing!? :)

Embedded Video

My Du Day

2009-02-22T00:34:00.001-06:00

I woke up after sleeping on the floor at the Best Western
Showed up to the race site
Put the bike in the transition area
Ran a 5k
Transitioned
Rode 25 miles
Transitioned
Ran a 5k
Went to the hospital to see a new friend that over exerted himself in the race!
He still got first in his age group
Got dropped off at the airport in San Antonio
Flew to Denver
Flew to San Diego
Checked into Motel 6
Going to bed...

25 Strangers (Life Experience) Portfolio -

2009-02-19T17:55:00.007-06:00

Click if you are curious, this is an idea that I had, I don't know what to expect or what the outcome will be, feel free to book mark this portfolio to follow along. I am sure that I will be adding updates on my blog!

I also added a link on the side under "Fun Links!"

These two individuals are no strangers in my life, they have encourage my quality of life, and only expanded roads for me to travel, and doors for me to open! They are my true inspiration and my own personal muses.

25 Strangers (Life Experience) Portfolio

25 Strangers (Life Experience) Portfolio - a set on Flickr

Another First

2009-02-18T12:42:00.001-06:00

I pretty much saw that Flamingo every morning for the past week on my beautiful walk to the expo.
I recommend clicking the image to view it in a larger size on my FlickR account. The details inside the Flamingos wing is what really captures my attention!

So, I've always thought that maybe segways were for lazy people, or security guards. No offense to any security guards :) But they are actually a lot of fun !

Nick and I both tried them out for the first time, the dude that talked me into wrapping a boa constrictor around my neck.

So one of my ear buds busted for my iPod, it's been like that for awhile, but I pretty much just ignored it since I really didn't want to buy a new pair of head phones. I've gone through two other pairs already in the past, one pair were stolen when I was in San Jose, the others I found not to be the quality that I was searching for.

The good thing about Miami is that there are always people hustling off the streets! So I ended up finding a brand that I like "Skullbuds" for a price that I could afford. The color is a little wild! But, I'm not known for being normal anyway :)

Miami During the Day

2009-02-16T22:44:00.001-06:00

So, I am finished up here in Miami, I leave in the morning back to Texas!
I have not been home for some time, and I am looking forward to seeing some friends
and family. I had originally planned to go camping with Ed and my brother, because of
some complications that Ed has come across and I now have to leave to LA and BE there on Monday, we will have to arrange the camping trip some other time :(
I will leave you with some pics that I took during the day in Miami.

This picture above was taken in a really crappy water fountain! Somehow I found the beauty in it!

I wanted to show what Miami is about, I now know what Will Smith was talking about!

Miami in a whole was very beautiful and very ugly at the exact same time, I did not see too many mediums when it came to this town. I would not mind visiting again, I always seem to enjoy Florida whether I am in Miami, Orlando, Orange Beach, or Tampa!

oh yeah, I have some more bike info later! I'll tell you when it actually happens! :)

Miami Pics

2009-02-15T23:18:00.001-06:00

Here are some Miami pics from the last couple of days.
This is what my apt looked like this week.

Then I pretty much went to the same restaurant out of convenience the whole week.
"OH Mexico!"

No Stopping or Standing, right in front of the menu, kind of hard NOT to do :)

I don't really remember what Nick was talking about in this picture below...

Most of the hotels on the boardwalk looked like this at night.
I'll try to post some pictures from the day tomorrow, it's definitely been a really long week. Tomorrow is my last day of work, and then I'll fly out on Monday to go home to Texas!

Be Scared to do Things...

2009-02-15T07:44:00.001-06:00

Be More scared NOT to do things!

For those of you that have been following my blog for a really really REALLY, long time. You are aware that I am not that fond of snakes.

I have a co-worker that IS VERY fond of snakes!
Well, while walking around Miami Beach, there was a guy was riding a bicycle with a python around his neck, so my friend asked if I would follow him to take a picture of him with the snake, I said sure, lets do it.

We follow the gentlemen down the path and ask him if we could see the snake, of course he wanted 20 bucks and my friend was like here's the snake back!
we ended up wheeling him down to 5bucks! That's probably what he wanted in the first place :)

So after I am done taking the photos for my friend, the guy with the bike, and the snake, grabs the snake off of my friends neck and wraps it around mine!

So I did it, and I got the picture to prove it!

It's been pretty fun here in Miami Beach, around Tuesday or so, I'll be able to make it home for a few days, after that I have to head out to Orange County.

Will Ferrell's ESA Acceptance Speech

2009-02-13T07:35:00.001-06:00

Embedded Video

Guitar Store on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009-02-12T22:12:00.001-06:00

Guitar Store

Guitar Store on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2009 Tour of California Versus ad

2009-02-10T08:21:00.001-06:00

Yes!!!

Embedded Video

It's Been EXTREMELY Hectic

2009-02-07T11:51:00.001-06:00

but I can't complain, I would rather be busy than not busy. SuperBowl was pretty much insane and I put in 80 hours of physical work, with TWO days off!
I am in Atlantic City right now doing a boat show, and then on Monday I take off to Miami for another boat show. I think that I will have about two weeks off after that, I plan on doing some camping and hiking, a small attempt to "release"

Tampa Bay

2009-01-24T22:50:00.001-06:00

I am in Tampa Bay now for the Super Bowl NFL Experience, I worked for Bridgestone the half time sponsor last year, and I was asked to return this year in Tampa. It is a lot of work, but it's still a lot of fun and it gets me out of the house!
I am having a lot of troubles in the bike department as several things have fallen through, but I know in the long run, I'll get what I want!
If anyone is coming to Super Bowl I have Monday and Tuesday off! Let me know!

I AM

2009-01-17T23:27:00.002-06:00

I am running the Phoenix Half Marathon. This was my first half marathon that I ran after I completed the Honolulu Marathon last year. The course is really fun and unique. I love that it ends on a bridge in the Scotsdale area! When I flew into Phoenix a couple of days ago, my plane flew right over the bridge at night while it was lit up! It made me smile just thinking that I will be running across that bridge once again - just like last year!

First Flight of the Year

2009-01-12T10:31:00.001-06:00

It seems like it's been awhile since I've had to go anywhere, it seems strange, but I think that I can get used to it, just like I got used to living at the airport.
I will only be in Denver for a day. Then I head back home to Texas (sorry Ed) I know you were happy to get rid of me! ;)

As for the 5k last week, live a dunce, I forgot my camera! But for the 10k this Saturday, I did not. I will probably post a few pics when I get back home, because I forgot the piece that goes from the memory stick to my laptop! If it's not one thing, it's another!

I am still in limbo on what 2009 will offer for me, but in the mean time, I've got some good runs in, and of course some nice miles on the bike. My legs are beginning to feel it again, and my heart has never forgotten !

Rock Racing "Here to Stay"

2009-01-04T11:52:00.001-06:00

Another SAD SAD SAD day!!!

When I first laid eyes on Rock Racing , it was at the Tour of
California. They were the loudest, the most obnoxious, the most
undisciplined bunch of misfits that ever wore spandex, and I loved
everything about it! It's really sad to hear that their original
slogan "HERE TO STAY" looks like it no longer should be their slogan!

It sounds like six months and that's all they have left! :(

I have added a link to the article and also their original video!

www.cyclingnews.com - the world centre of cycling

Embedded Video

cyclepassion.com - CYCLEPASSION CALENDAR 2009

2009-01-03T22:05:00.001-06:00

It's a new year , and you are probably looking for that perfect calendar that reflects (you). If bikes are your passion, then the "boys only" calendar is probably on your menu. Although I find it pretty pricey at thirty six euros, I like the ideas, and concepts, and how they are trying to make cycling a more attractive sport.

Tomorrow I am running a 5k to stretch out my legs. If I am not a goof I'll bring my camera and not forget like I have been lately!

cyclepassion.com - CYCLEPASSION CALENDAR 2009

Man who aided bicycle theft plan has bike stolen - Yahoo! News

2009-01-01T18:25:00.002-06:00

What a way to start off the New Year huh?
Who would Steal a bicycle when another human being is trying to "help" another human being?

Man who aided bicycle theft plan has bike stolen

Man who aided bicycle theft plan has bike stolen - Yahoo! News

I've Been Sick . . .

2008-12-31T17:45:00.001-06:00

The past couple of days, so I've been kind of mia lately. The good news is that I am feeling better already.

I wanted to say Happy New Year to everyone, and I hope that for most 2009 is better than 2008. For myself, I've thought long and hard, and other than being engaged and hopefully getting married, I don't think that I can possibly beat 2008! For me, 2008 was great! ;)
Right off the bat, the bike thing has already fallen through! but as always, it hopefully happened for a reason. Last year I set a goal of a new bike, so I've saved up since last year and no matter what, I'll end up with a new bike to meet and accomplish another one of my goals!
for 2009, I will not be making any New Years Resolution, but I again will be setting "goals."

The Long Run

2008-12-27T09:42:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to All!

2008-12-25T17:10:00.001-06:00

Here is an update of what I have been doing since I've been home.
First, I Rode My Bike, with some crazy strangers that I randomly met on the road!

This is how we ride in South Texas "Rough Ryderz!" (notice Ed with the one hand)

The next day, I Rode My Bike with my brother in law.

We stopped halfway through our ride to refuel

The day after that, I Rode My Bike
I did most of my riding with Eddie, he's been helping critique my new bike!

We got a good little ride in on Christmas Day!

For the next couple of days I will hopefully be riding more miles, but I am still stretching my legs right now trying to get readjusted to cycling again!

I Never Win Anything!

2008-12-21T23:52:00.001-06:00

I Freaked Out ...

2008-12-20T12:06:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I woke up in Atlanta, GA. This is nothing new, but this morning I woke up in Edinburg, TX. Since we went to the show last night, we could say that I was up at 2am TX time and went to bed at one. I like to leave the curtains open , so that I can be waken up by the natural sun light. Well this morning, I woke up in my own bed, staring into my own backyard! What a strange feeling!

Home-

2008-12-18T23:06:00.001-06:00

I've booked my flight out of Atlanta, and should be in by the afternoon, just in time for cirque du soleil!
I know that I am cutting it short! But I am leaving a day early and it was my last day of work for the rest of the year! I have a lot of cycling planned especially since my knee is still bumbed and probably shouldn't have run the Las Vegas Marathon! hmm, never mind! I don't regret that at all! See You Guys Soon!

Check Out the New Links!

2008-12-15T11:55:00.003-06:00

There have been a few changes with my blogger links on the side bar, first I have added a few people that I've been following through RSS Feed, but never found the time to add "officially"
First I'll start with

Justin Farmer- A great contribution to "The Valley" cycling/racing, hes' hooked up with Clif Bars and Crocs! Check out the link to see his new jersey design for 09'

3 Sport Cat- Aw, an oldie but a goodie, Kathleen is a runner, gone cyclists, gone swimmer, gone Triathlete. I also have been following her new blog through RSS Feed. She loves to bake SnickerDoodles while enjoying endurance sports!

Tinker Juarez- If you don't know who Tinker Juarez is, then you are probably lost and came to this blog on accident. For Piojo and I, he's been a cycling legend. I've been fortunate enough to meet him in Las Vegas and hook him up with some product! Check out his blog to see his recent bad crash!

And as much as I HATE to leave a blog posting on a bad note! I've removed Nick Martin! I used to be a fan, after all, I did design his blog banner and he hooked me up with some of his personal items such as duffel bags, stickers, and even a race number (mud and all) but his blog has lacked any type of attention since he got married about a year ago, and it seems pointless to leave it in the links!

Iraqi Journalist Throws Shoes at Bush (Video)

2008-12-14T23:20:00.001-06:00

Embedded Video

Bike Hero!

2008-12-13T20:03:00.001-06:00

If you have ever played Rock Band, or any games of that nature, and if you love bikes in general, then this is the video for you !

Embedded Video

Go Elf YoursELF!

2008-12-09T11:40:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Las Vegas Marathon 2008 Recap!

2008-12-08T11:42:00.001-06:00

So another year completed with the Crocs Marathon Tour.
This is always the hardest part for me because living a life on the road and living that life with other people on the road is what creates true quality friends. I have had to say good bye for the last time to some unbelievable people. The likely hood that I will run into them again in the future is slim to none, but this is how things work. I am just fortunate that I have had an amazing last two years and experienced, seen, done, touched, and smelled so many beautiful things that this world has to offer.

I know that I promised photos from Europe, but this weekend, and unplanned as usual, I ended up running my 7th Half Marathon YTD.

I don't know if I'll continue running or if I am looking forward to "maybe" being able to focus on the bike again or both. I don't know what next year has to offer me, and I feel like it would be impossible to top this year! But I sure will have fun trying to do it!

Here are the photos from the Las Vegas Marathon Weekend-

lets just say that the Penny Slots are VERY addicting! :)

Beer, Cops, Elvis, Vegas

Apparently there was a run through wedding , which ONLY makes sense in Las Vegas!

A Couple of More Days

2008-11-27T15:55:00.002-06:00

Just a couple of more days until I hit some dry land. We dock this cruise ship in Manhattan, NYC.
From there I will probably go to Chicago for a couple of days, head out to Texas, or just go to Vegas early. I have not made up my mind yet. It's been one HUGE adventure!

Across the Atlantic

2008-11-22T10:44:00.002-06:00

For those of you that know me well, know that I am always and forever checking things off "The List."
Right now I am ending my tour of Europe and crossing the Atlantic Ocean that will take around six days to do. We will finish the excursion in NYC.
I will try my hardest to check in and out, but paying 100 bucks for 250 minutes is a pretty penny!
What can you ask for when you are stuck on a cruise ship and "they" are the only source of internet access, since WiFi is not "readily" available!
So expect a ton of pictures from
Barcelona, Spain
Pisa, Italy
Rome, Italy
Corsica, France
and
Magala, Spain!

Agbar Tower, Barcelona

2008-11-15T11:53:00.001-06:00

Agbar Tower, Barcelona (3)
Originally uploaded by Klaus_Dolle

A unique feature of the building is its nocturnal illumination. It has 4,500 LED luminous devices that allow generation of luminous images in the facade. In addition, it has temperature sensors in the outside of the tower that regulate the opening and closing of the glass blinds of the facade of the building, reducing the consumption of energy for air conditioning.

All Over the Place

2008-11-12T22:32:00.002-06:00

I have pretty much been all over the United States. It's hard for me to imagine that only a couple of years ago that I would have been to the places that I have been, and seen the things that I have seen. I am only adding to this even more by "hopefully" catching a flight to Barcelona! I fly standby, so everyone please cross your fingers for me!

P.S. I just renewed my FlickR account, so expect pictures when I get back!!

Not Mine...

2008-11-11T08:52:00.003-06:00

I know it's been awhile since I have updated, but I have not had MY laptop lately since I am having trouble with my internet card.
I also left it at home since I will be going over seas for a couple of weeks! In a few days I am off to Barcelona and Rome!

I have to admit, for me personally, using the Internet Browser "Flock" makes blogging, photo uploading, and community webpages a lot easier to use!

I guess I never realized how accustomed I had become to using, until I didn't have it anymore.

Also check out Ed's blog for some updates, and congrats to Justin Farmer for a fourth place finish this Sunday and bringing home some cash !
"We going Sizzler!!"

Crocs - Soles United

2008-11-06T21:48:00.002-06:00

As always I try to stay away from work when blogging, but I think this time it's ok.
Please watch these videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNUcJTAG-Vg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5u7w_M1iib0

I am on my way out to Little Rock, AR tomorrow. I will probably leave my house around four in the morning leaving my bike once again :(
On Monday I am off to Chicago.

I Rode My Bike...

2008-11-05T23:32:00.002-06:00

Wow, a couple of years ago I would never imagine making that a title for a post. The last couple of years have been pretty rough on my relationship with my bike though. I went for a night ride with Ed and the weather was great and riding with a group was even nicer.
My relationship in that department will hopefully change soon since I am looking at moving to the Greater Chicago area. IF I find a job that doesn't require as much traveling as I do now, then I will have an opportunity to ride my bike more often. As much as I run, I just don't have the passion and the same feeling that I get while I am cruising along on my bicycle. As I do not mind running, and I truly intend on continuing to do so, at least for "off season" training and convience, I am looking forward to hopefully riding my bike a lot more and attempting to rekindle that relationship!

NYC Marathon

2008-11-02T00:30:00.001-05:00

Lets say at this event I got to exercise the spanish that I do know, and at least the thank you and good byes in German and French ,that I learned when I was over there for two weeks. This event was completely saturated by the euros.
I was told the event was 33 percent euros, 33 percent New Yorkers, and 33 percent were Americans from the rest of the States, but after this weekend I don't know how accurate that statement was.
Here are some pics from the NYC Halloween parade!

It's hard to see the two hot chicks in front of him! ;)

And last, the BEST Oompa LoOmpa costume!

Photo borrowed from Adams blog :)
I am leaving New York to see if I can get home and do some laundry. I am actually "off" until Thursday. This is a rare but needed rest, afterwards I am off to Little Rock, AR for a soccer tournament that we sponsor.
I should have more NYC pics later!

Maid in America...

2008-10-28T22:28:00.006-05:00

My life on the road is coming to an end sooner than later.
It's been two years that I have been living place to place and out of a suit case.
I have to admit though that it has been one hell of a journey!

I was going to start a Travel Tips with random number postings, but since my travels will begin to slow I probably shouldn't do it now.
I am not saying that I will NOT travel, I just will not be traveling for work anymore, or maybe I will? I have not decided yet, and am still confused on my next chapter. Just how the seasons have obviously changed, it's that time for me also.

Anyway, I have wondered off from what i was originally going to post.
It's a WHY DO MAIDS/housekeepers:

ALWAYS COME IN YOUR ROOM when you are naked?

TIRED AS HELL!

After you yell for them to come back later?

Sometimes not even knock!

and when they do knock, it sounds like
they are POUNDING THE DOOR IN!

I've had maids come in and do their thing
and not say a word to me, while I am in my
bed on my laptop probably half naked...

Others pretend to be scared even after
I have screamed my lungs out that I am STILL here!

and my biggest pet peeve!

Come in before it's check out time!?
WTF!?

I paid until 12! Give me that peace!!!

My Beloved Marine Corps Marathon

2008-10-27T21:55:00.001-05:00

First, Congrats to Nate for running the Full Marathon.
I know that I just started running the past 11 months, and never thought that I would want to run another FULL marathon since I ran Honolulu and San Diego. There hasn't been a full marathon that has given me the itch or urge to participate in, but after this weekend I think maybe next year (maybe with training this time) that I might consider running the Marine Corps Marathon.

Embedded Video

For the majority of my child hood I grew up living the life of a military brat. I basically spent 17 years involuntarily. I know that my parents, my brother and sister have no regrets and that living that life style made us grow together without choice. I think that if I did run this marathon, I would run it for my father and my family and not for myself, since I have already had that accomplishment.

I am here now in Baltimore, MD going to NYC on Wednesday for one of the most attractive international races in the world.

NOTE!:

Watch the video at a HUGE HUGE DISCRETION!!!!! There is EXTREMELY FOUL LANGUAGE NOT suitable for some and not suitable for work!

Pictures of Taking Pictures

2008-10-23T10:37:00.001-05:00

Adam who's link is hosted on the right side of my blog took this picture while I was capturing another picture. I thought it came out pretty cool and pretty decent quality considering that his camera is an iPhone.

This was the photo that I was taking.

While taking pictures at night DO NOT use the flash, this is like the number one no no that I see a lot of people doing!
The flash is for when it is basically pitch black and you are peaking over a wall of a very famous memorial.

You can read some of the tombstones.

Above Flash and no Flash, I was in the darker area so it was needed, Adam had enough light to let it filter the phone and still come out nice. I personally prefer the effects of the second photo with no photoshopping.
This last photo does have photoshop plus some photography involved.

I recommend clicking this picture and enlarging it to see it in better quality!

Worker Queen Bee

2008-10-21T13:40:00.001-05:00

While sitting at the airport in Detroit, I couldn't help to over hear a gentlemen speaking VERY loudly. I wasn't the only one at the airport who's attention he grabbed. As we all know airports are very loud.
Well, it was also easy to notice that the girl was doing all of the work, and the guy was just pacing around back and forth not accomplishing anything while having a personal conversation.
So I tried my hardest to get a picture without them noticing!

WOL

2008-10-19T21:55:00.005-05:00

I find myself while I am typing this ;) that I actually "Wink Out Loud" weird huh?

Wink on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Anyway, we are done with the Detroit Freepress Marathon. The weather was pretty good overall and really really cold on race day. I like this event for the only reason that you get to run through two countries in one day. I think last year I felt that it was only the full marathoners, but it's not. The half marathons get to enjoy this marathon niche also!
Next stop Washington D.C. for the Marine Corps Marathon!