Improved

Hey, it feels like ages since I last checked out Facebook! I’ve only peeked at my personal emails a couple of times. Turns out, the world is still spinning around, just like I remember. I’m still figuring out when or if I’ll dive back into Facebook or clear out my email inbox, but no rush, right?

I managed to bike around 140 miles last week! I hit the road a few times to work, and then Shelley and I went on the  50-mile Tour De Saints ride on Sunday. It was quite the adventure, with winds blowing over 15 miles per hour, and they seemed to be playing tricks on us, changing direction as we went. But Shelley still smashed a personal best of 3:20 for the 50 miles!

Before the ride, I performed several maintenance tasks on my bicycle. I replaced the rear sprocket, repaired the damaged spokes, and installed a new rear sprocket. Additionally, I removed the 28mm rear and 25mm front tires used during the Denver to Minneapolis trip and replaced them with 25mm rear and 23mm front tires. The removal of the 28mm tires proved to be a challenging process. Furthermore, I replaced the shifter cable and adjusted the front derailleur, which had been experiencing issues. I am pleased that I completed these tasks myself after taking the bicycle mechanics course, as it resulted in a cost savings of $300.

Due to my busy work schedule, I haven't taken any photographs recently. I had to send my D600 camera for repair due to a recall for sensor spots, which I began to notice during my last use of the camera. I shipped it out on July 5 and received it back today (June 21). I intend to test it out this weekend.

I experienced a profound emotional letdown following my bike ride and the completion of my 30^th consecutive Grandma’s marathon. I require clear goals and objectives to maintain motivation and prevent stagnation. I am apprehensive about the potential limitations of my body due to aging, as recovery becomes more challenging. Additionally, I am burdened by an unprecedented level of work stress. Our team is understaffed, and I have consistently worked at least a 55-hour week, with occasional weeks exceeding 70 hours. My typical workday consists of arriving at 6 AM, leaving at 6 PM, and taking a lunch break.

Despite these challenges, I have discovered a newfound enjoyment in running distances of 2 miles or less. This unexpected positive experience has been a significant surprise, as I have not found any enjoyment in running for the past several years. I intend to repeat this exercise several times and sincerely hope for a positive outcome. Regardless of the result, I must persist in my efforts, as that is the only course of action I am aware of.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

A blog is better than Facebook?

Today, I was asked about my participation in a 5K race that took place over the weekend. I informed the individual that I have only participated in four to five races annually for the past few years, with one of those being Grandma’s Marathon. As I mentioned this, it became evident that they believed I was jesting. I attribute this to the influence of Facebook; unlike blogs, which present information in a user-defined sequence rather than snippets, Facebook appears to determine the content and timing of its posts.

I have recently become less enthusiastic about Facebook, primarily due to the evolving perception of Social Media. It is a platform for self-expression. I can articulate my thoughts whether I am content, frustrated, or perplexed. Recently, I was subjected to ridicule for posting about a retail company that failed to honor its promise. I had requested a password reset, and they assured me that I would receive a notification within 30 minutes. However, after two days, I expressed my frustration on Facebook, only to be subjected to criticism for sharing my thoughts. Additionally, I have another high-level mail-order company that double-charged me for a Christmas gift, and I am still attempting to resolve this issue. I expressed my concerns on Facebook in January, and I was once again attacked.  

So, I last used Facebook a few weeks ago, and WOW, life continues without daily use. Who would have thought?

My physical recovery from the bicycle ride from Denver, followed by Grandma’s Marathon, is still progressing slowly. Over the past six weeks, I have experienced limited sensation in my small fingers. Additionally, my left ankle has been experiencing severe pain on most days. Despite this, I have managed to complete another 150 miles of cycling, but the experience has been challenging. I have only managed to complete one commute to work since May 1st.

In light of these circumstances, it would be beneficial for me to incorporate yoga into my routine to help restore balance to my body.

My son, who is employed full-time, is currently navigating the demanding life schedule after graduation. I am proud of his ability to manage this challenge effectively. As a parent, it is natural to feel concerned, especially given the competitive nature of his corporate environment.

At work, we are currently preparing for another legal dispute. There are numerous issues at hand, and individuals continue to create legal complications rather than addressing the underlying problems and moving forward. This situation has made it difficult for me to enjoy my work.

Regardless of these challenges, I intend to increase my bicycle commuting in the coming weeks. This year has been particularly challenging, with frequent rain and floodwaters that have exceeded my previous experiences in July. Additionally, the weather in July has been consistently cold, with morning temperatures ranging from 50°F to a high of 66°F.

We take the good and the bad and keep moving forward.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

What is next?

 Six weeks have passed since the 11-day bicycle journey from Denver to Minneapolis, and two weeks since Grandma’s Marathon. While the experience was physically demanding, it was undoubtedly worthwhile. Several lingering pains persist, including a lack of full sensation in the outer extremities of my hands, fatigue, a slight twinge in my right knee, and a painful left ankle that is nearly twice the size of the right one. It is advisable to allow sufficient time for recovery, although I am eager to resume cycling to work. This intention is not solely for the enjoyment of riding but to reduce the mileage I would otherwise travel by car.

I will be getting up early tomorrow.  My son starts his new job.  He departs MSP airport at 6:30 AM on his way to Atlanta.  It is easier to give him a ride, even though parking is reimbursed.  It just adds 15 or more minutes to park and then get the ride to the airport.  He returns on Thursday, late.  This same routine will continue through the next few months.  This is exciting, but it is a little daunting.  I am so proud of him!

On another front, I shipped my Nikon D600 back to the factory. While I was hopeful I avoided the oil spots on the sensor issue, I was not so lucky. Fortunately, Nikon does a full repair for free, including shipping. I'll be out of the camera for the next few weeks. Before I sent the camera off for repairs, I managed to capture some good fireworks pictures.

I also purchased the pictures from Grandma’s. Some were pretty good. The finished picture was the tail of two runners. I was spending money, and my son looked like it was a walk.

Right now, I really need to find something to enjoy. The letdown of the bicycle ride ending and the 30-year run at Grandma’s completion was greater than expected. What is next? I am not sure, but life is less fun right now!

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!