You all know how much I love music….
My new favorite sound:
20211106 – Music
Continuing with the music theme.
Pete Murray changed my world. Opened my ‘ears’ to music from around the world. Made me fall in love with Australia and the appreciation of musicians from around the world. There is so much incredible sounds and voices out there, beyond the US. I’ll add more to the list as they come to mind. Right now. Here are couple of my favorites.
20211106 – Eurovision
I LOVE Eurovison….. to this day, he’s my favorite and still the hottest…!!!
Click on ‘Watch on YouTube’ and it will direct you to the Video. Enjoy.
And of course… there’s nothing like a “Song Along”……!!!
And who can forget Verka:
NO words for Netta…..!!!
20201012 – Stay Tuned
Making a Comeback…….
Stay Tuned for updates….!!! Can’t wait… and of course that means going back to Palm Springs to play tennis. How have I missed you my desert friend….!!!
20170821 – What Eclipse…???
So…. Here in Ouray…. we were suppose to have 90% effect from the Eclipse….
I feel punked…
Nothing here to see…. I even made a stupid viewing box… but didn’t need it. I was tempted to stare directly at the sun, but I’m not as stupid as our POTUS (who, by the way, is not my POTUS…!!)
20170729 – For my 50th…..
It’s official…..
For years, I’ve been coveting a Motorcycle tour in the European Alps with Ducati. I’ve decided for my 50th birthday, next year, I’m going to do it. The deposit is paid and I’m officially booked my spot. It’s an amazing 15 day ride through the Alps of Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. Here’s a brief description of the ride:
The Alps – every motorcyclist’s dream! This tour introduces you to a stunning variety of scenery and culture as well as some of the world’s best mountain roads.
From Seefeld it takes only minutes to reach the first set of switchbacks, giving you an idea of what’s to come. Awesome views try to distract us as we tackle curve after curve, heading deeper and deeper into the Alps. In Switzerland the mountains are even higher and snow-covered year-round. On our way to France we collect passes like other people collect stamps. This is paradise for every avid rider!
And it’s not over yet. We enter Italy and immediately “La Dolce Vita” is all around us. Gorgeous lakes, lush orchards, the air filled with the smell of the world’s best Espresso, this must be God’s own country. We tackle more passes until we reach the mother of them all: Stelvio. 87 switchbacks. Simply breathtaking!
Before we return to Seefeld, the Dolomites and the Grossglockner High Alpine Road mark two of the final highlights along our route. One thing is for sure: the impressions you gain on this two week tour will make you yearn for more!
Here are some links about the ride:
Views of the Alps from the Ride: (I love the music choice…!!!)
A link to the ride description:
https://www.edelweissbike.com/en/touren/?c=CGA
20170728 – Back to Ouray
Back in Ouray after so many hours in the new Suburban/Couch.
Basically, I drove to PS, got a haircut, went to the apartment, starting packing and getting ready for the Revivals pickup of furniture for tomorrow.
The guys from Revivals came and took everything, which was a great feeling to give to such a great cause. But before I knew it, it was time to head back home for the 13 hour drive to Ouray.
I’d prefer not to drive any time soon any where in the near future. It was painful being in the car for so long, by yourself.
Once I got back to Ouray, I could enjoy some vino on the deck.
20170728 – Farewell to…..
Palm Springs….
Unfortunately, it’s time to say Good Bye to Palm Springs. As much as I’ve enjoyed my time in this great city, now that I’m working, it’s tough to spend as much time there as I’d like. Plus, the fact that the Tennis Facility I moved there to enjoy, has closed; It’s time to say: “Addio”….!!
I drove down to PS and drove back… Twenty Seven (27) Hours in a car by yourself in Four (4) days was brutal. But, I’m back in Ouray and ready to enjoy being here Full Time.
20170727 – Update
Well……
The start to 2017 hasn’t started off as I planned. Work consumed my life and it was a more difficult transition getting back into the ‘work’ mode than expected.
None the less…. I’m back… Ready to explore and have fun for the rest of 2017….!!
20161230 – End of the Year
It’s been quite a while since I’ve posted anything. I’ve been spending the past couple of weeks distracted by the social life in Palm Springs. Though it’s been fun, it’s time to refocus.
As 2016 draws to a close, it’s been an amazing year, mostly because of the Sabbatical. I’ve had time to enjoy life and most of all, wake up every morning in my own bed.
For 2017, I’m hoping to be more diligent in posting updates to the blog. Also, I’m planning to play more tennis, get back to lifting in the gym (I’ve gained quite a few pounds the last several weeks due to my debauchery), riding my bike, yoga, and hiking.
I also am planning to start my triathlon training when I get back to Palm Springs next week. This week, I’m in CO visiting some friends for the NYE weekend. It’s great to be back in CO, especially to spend time with friends, but I’m also missing the warmth of the desert.
Chat with you in 2017….!!!
20161026 – Yoga Baby
Another day in Palm Springs, another New Adventure.
Today I went to my first Yoga class. Now, I have absolutely NO flexibility. That’s one reason I’ve avoided Yoga. The other is, it’s just hard…!! But, I’ve come to the realization, that I’m getting old. So, to avoid any type of other injuries, I should do some preventive practices to strengthen my core and balance. It couldn’t hurt at this point in my geriatric phase of life…!!
Well, I braved it and survived my first class. I found a Yoga studio near by, so I can just walk up the street to the studio. They offered a Beginner Class, so I signed up.
Once again, I was so nervous. I was hoping there would only be one or two in the class, but when I walked in, the room was PACKED. It gave me flashbacks of Elementary and Middle school when you walk into the classroom for the first time. Everyone had their mats already out and their territories were marked and of course they were all in the Back of the room. That meant, I had to take my mat and park it up front by the instructor. Once I got my fat ass settled on the mat, she of course announced that I was the only newbie. All of the other folks in class were definitely not new. Great.. Now I’m up front in class and everyone knows I’m a total virgin.
Ughhhhhh… The Nightmare is coming true…!!
The instructor was absolutely fantastic and took her time explaining everything in the beginning and was extremely encouraging, but then the pace picked up. Since I had no idea what language she was speaking (I had no idea what the poses or positions were called), I spent most of the time, just following the other folks and what they were doing. The class went really well and within a few minutes, the nerves subsided and it was really enjoyable. So enjoyable, I already signed up for my next class.
Namaste…!!
20161025 – Tri Bound
Not only was tennis a priority for returning to Palm Springs, but also to challenge myself to get in the best shape possible for this old body of mine.
Years ago, I used to race on the Xterra Triathlon series ( total amateur level…!!!) and had so much fun. After some deep consideration, I decided, “What the Hell… Go for it…”
I’m returning to Triathlon training and I couldn’t be more excited.
Official training will begin on December 1st….!!
To commemorate the decision, I’ve registered for my first race… See ya there…!!!!!
20161023 – Tennis…. I’m back, bitch…!!
One of the biggest reasons for returning to Palm Springs, was to get back on the court and play tennis.
As we all know, last year was a nightmare. After just two weeks of returning to the court, disaster happened. No need to go into the details, but more important to focus on the NOW and FUTURE…!!!
Sunday morning, I booked a hitting lesson with one of the pro’s at Indian Wells Tennis Center. It’s an AMAZING facility that hosts the Professional tennis tournament in March. It’s just freakin incredible.
So…. before hitting, I had to go to pick up my demo rackets from the same store I demo’d from last year when the worst happened. While driving to the store, my hands were getting sweaty. I was almost to the point of shaking as I got closer to the store, since the last time I was there, I was in complete denial that anything had happened to my achilles. I hobbled into the store to return the sticks and memory of it, was causing me to sweat, but I had to shake it off.
Once I got closer to the courts, I got even more nervous. My stomach was literally doing flips. I felt like I could vomit in the parking lot of the courts. I just focused on the work I’ve done to get better and swallowed the lump in my throat, took a big deep breathe and walked to the courts. My head was spinning.
—————- So… I actually survived the hit…!!! And had an INCREDIBLE time. Actually, I had a freakin AMAZING – AWESOME time…!!!
I was so excited when finished. Not only was it so much fun to be back on the court, but no signs of any issues with the achilles. I’ve worked so hard this winter to regain my strength and it all paid off. I felt so strong on the court. But… tennis is specific when it comes to conditioning and foot work, and I was surprised how much work I still need to be good again. I”m ready for the challenge…!!
One of the coolest parts of the Indian Wells courts it their technology. The hitting session with the pro was actually video’d and taped and can be seen online.
If you want to take a look, email me and I’ll give you the credentials to log in.
Can’t wait to get back on the court again.
20161021 – Annual Pass
I’m an annual pass holder….!!!
Now that I’m settling into Palm Springs, it’s been a discovery of fun things to do. A quick 15 minute drive from the house will get me to the Palm Springs Tram.
I first discovered this amazing adventure last year before I left when my friends, Susan and Bill came to visit. It’s a gondola that takes 15 minutes from the floor of Palm Springs up to the top of Mt. Jacinto.
Once you arrive at the summit station, it’s all alpine. There are a ton of trails for hiking and camping, and even snowshoeing during the winter.
With all of that, I decided to become an annual Pass Holder…!!!
Once you get to the top, it’s just amazing scenery and forest:
View from the top of the tram…!!!
20161013 – Getting close
I’m getting so close to my final goal. When I first started this journey, I just wanted to get in shape and feel better physically and mentally. Along the way, I’ve really enjoyed working out in the gym. I never thought I’d like lifting, but it’s been a great challenge.
Each day after the gym, I’ve been trying to do some type of cardio workout, whether it be a hike, bike, or getting back to running. It’s been a little difficult lately to keep up the Cardio since the weather has been so yucky in Ouray. I’m continuing to work on getting stronger each morning in the gym, but still have a ways to go.
Unfortunately, at this point, it’s all diet.
Here is my pile of clothes I have that no longer fit. Ironic that I had bought some “goal clothes” to wear, but at this point, they’re too big…!! I breezed right by the chance to wear them. That was stupid…!! Going up to Goodwill to drop them off before leaving for Cali.
20161009 – Free day
I’m getting so close to one of my biggest weight goals, but today is a Free Day.
Who invented Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes…!! Yes… they tasted as great as they look. I scored on those puppies.
The cupcakes were for breakfast along with the Pumpkin Spice Bailey’s coffee creamer. The only thing missing was BACON.
Then for dinner, I totally splurged and made a Spaghetti bake with a LOT of cheese. I did use Turkey meat, so not soooooo bad.
Unfortunately, I ate too much…. My stomach was not feeling too great afterwards. Thankfully, there was wine to settle down the rumbling tummy…!!!
Here’s to the next Free day…..
20161007 – Gaga
In honor of the queen, Lady Gaga to appear at the Super Bowl Half Time this year…. I made a video. Yes…. I had some vino before making it, but still think it’s funny.
Probably not one of her more famous songs, but definitely a favorite of mine. Oh… and as you can see, I did it last week before I shaved the facial hair….
Click the below link to see a moment with me and Gaga…!!!
20161006 – You dare question….
If you still think the Yeti isn’t real, just watch……
It’s undeniable.
Who thought a tongue was a Yeti’s desired diet.
20161006 – The Beard Gods are Angry
It seems as though the Beard gods are not happy with me shaving my facial hair.
After last night’s dispatch of facial hair of nearly 10 years, the Beard gods have retaliated against me. I woke up to their wrath this morning and was greeted by SNOW…!!! And lots of it.
20161005 – Bringing back the ‘Stache’
Well…. apparently I have too much time on my hands. Today I was inspired to bring back the ‘Stache’…!!!
For too long it’s been criticized and mocked. Today, I decided to make a stand and ‘stand’ up for the ‘Stache’…!!
It’s been almost 10 years since my chin has touched sunlight and it feels quite strange, but we all have to make sacrifices for the things we believe in. Plus, now that it’s cold, I’m tired of having to blow dry it each time after a shower in order to go outside.
Here’s to bringing back the ‘Stache’….!!!!!
Hail to my friends sporting such an iconic look. I stand with you my brothers…
I think this was the longest I had the beard back in November of 2013. People don’t realize, but a beard takes a LOT of work and maintenance.
Not to mention how many times I would zipper my beard up in my jacket. It actually was so long at one point, I remember I had to untuck it from the covers of the bed or I would feel smothered…!!
20161005 – Going back to…..
Well… i just signed a lease for the Winter… in Orlando you might ask..??!! Nope…
I’m going back to Cali, Palm Springs that is.
Yup.. I’m gonna give it another try. As most of you all know, I moved to Palm Springs last Fall to chase the Sun, play tennis, mt. bike, and escape the snow for a Winter.
My friends Paul and Jan came down to help me shop for furniture and get settled in. Everything was going great.. But… Just after a couple weeks, I tore my achilles on the tennis court.
Luckily Susan came down to help me during the surgery. She really enjoyed driving, and especially parking the Suburban…!! Without her help, I would have never survived the surgery and painful days following.
After the surgery, I spent the entire time in Palm Springs in my apartment hopping around on crutches and ‘iWalk.’ If you’ve never seen it, it’s a peg leg contraption that holds your leg in place and gives you the ability to walk. It was a life saver.
Anyway… that was old news.
I just signed the lease and waiting for confirmation on the move in date, but it looks like it will be towards the end of October. I decided to head back to PS to give it another chance. I’m hoping not to have to spend the entire time in the apartment this go around.!!
I’m looking forward to getting back on the tennis court (even though the tennis facility I played at last year closed) there are still quite a few options. I’m also looking forward to getting a road bike and spending some afternoons on the highways in the sun. The mountain bike is going as well, and of course the Moto…!!!
I was lucky enough to get a space in the same apartment complex I lived at last year. It’s located two streets from downtown PS, so you can walk to restaurants, shops, and all the events.
http://www.latitude33palmsprings.com/
Another thing I’m looking forward to is being able to experience the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament. Last year, I was just cleared to walk (in pain and short distances) right before the event. Luckily, I got in to see some of the qualifying and then I splurged a bit and bought a ticket in center stadium down near the court. I got to see some amazing tennis and can’t wait for next year’s tournie..!!
You are always welcomed to come visit…!!!!
Time to start packing…
And the first things to be packed: A case of tennis balls that I bought in Palm Springs and a pair of ‘snazzy’ tennis sneaks that have never been used…
20161004 – Big News
Stay tuned…..
Tomorrow I hope to announce big news for the winter.
As everyone has known, I’ve been researching moving to Orlando for the Winter… but…. I might have new news. Will update tomorrow…!!!
20161004 – In Search of the Yeti
Why didn’t anyone from the Travel Channel contact me about this job opening…!!??!!!
Tomorrow night, Josh Gates (who stole my ideal job) will host a show on the Travel Channel in search of the Yeti… Really… someone gets paid for what I’m doing on my Sabbatical….!!
The dude gets to hike the Himalayas for fun… how did I miss this job opportunity. Looking forward to seeing the amazing country he explores and the evidence he finds proving that the Yeti does exist.
Happy hunting…!!!
20160929 – Whiskey and Jan
Another amazing day in Ouray. It was actually warm considering the past few days. I would almost dare to say it was toasty, but… that’s all relative considering it’s snowed in town already this Fall.
After a short workout in the gym and then a quick chat with Seth, my trainer on Facetime, I had to head to Montrose for some chores. The downside to living in the middle of nowhere is that you have to drive an hour to the grocery store. There actually is a mini market in the town of Ouray, but you have to be pretty desperate to make a purchase from the ‘Food Museum’.
Once I got back to Ouray, it was time to set out on the bike. I wasn’t sure if it was that great of an idea, considering my thighs were still screaming from yesterday’s hike. I decided I needed to hop on the bike so I headed up Camp Bird road, which is nothing but uphill. I’m not going to lie… it hurt in the beginning, but once I got warmed up, I boogied my ass up that road.
After the ride and a shower, my friends Paul and Jan (who are the greatest people and friends – and a big part of me moving to Ouray – but who now live on the Front Range) came into town. They met me at my place and shortly after arriving, Paul had to leave for Silverton for a town meeting. That left Jan and I to find some fun things to do for the evening.
First, we headed up to Crystal Lake near Ironton for a hike through the amazing colors of the aspen trees. There was a light wind, which rustled through the colorful aspen trees. The sound of aspen leaves in the wind is so unique and indescribable. It’s truly a Colorado sound.
After the hike, we headed back to town where we had a little happy hour and then headed to dinner. Jan and I had a great meal and we kinda felt bad for having such a great time, while we knew Paul was working…
As we were walking back from dinner, we passed the Distillery that has been under construction for months and were struggling to get open. We saw lights on and the ‘Open’ sign was illuminated. Could they be open…?? We went to investigate and discovered they were indeed, finally open for business.
We made our way to the second floor where the bar is…. Just a fun fact… the barback that the Distillery is using as their main functional unit, where they store glasses and display their bottles, was originally in the Story Block building in Ouray, that Jan and Paul now own. It’s pretty incredible to see such a beautiful piece of history in a new and gorgeous building in town.
Once we settled in… Needless to say… I had to test the Whiskey and WOW….. it was amazing. Poor Jan, who doesn’t drink hard liquor had to endure my savoring of the whiskey and we were the last patrons in the building.
What a fun night with Jan…. just felt bad that poor Paul had to work while we had fun…… but… sometimes you just have to deal with a “PILE OF CRAP” (that’s for you Paul…!!)
I did buy a bottle of the whiskey and shared some with him, once he got back to town.
Looking forward to seeing my friends, Paul and Jan, again soon. They’re special people and more importantly, special friends.
20160927 – Weehawken
***** There are Four (4) videos in this post. They take a bit of time to download, but hope they’ll be worth it. Sorry. *****
Just another beautiful day in Ouray. It would be a shame not to be outside and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. So…….
I decided to head to the Weehawken trail. I saw a friend in town yesterday and told me how great the colors were up on the trail, so I headed out to tackle the route. I knew where the trailhead was, but wasn’t familiar what the trail entailed. I guess I should have read a bit about it before heading out. Just another result of not being involved enough in the town I’ve lived for so many years. I’ve been in Ouray since 2010 and it’s such a shame I’ve never been able to play in the hills and on these trails until now. Better late, than never…!!
It’s amazing how happy I look at the Trailhead at the start of the hikes….
Not far up the trail, you could tell, this was going to be an amazing hike with some amazing views of the Fall colors. So far, the trail has been nothing but UPHILL. No surprise in Ouray though…
Finally after a long trek upward, I got to the fork in the trail. I decided to head to the Alpine Mine and Outlook, so I took a sharp right. What a crazy hike this has been…. as you can see, I’m already wiped out..
As I work my way up through treeline, the views become even more incredible.
I finally got to the first outlook and as you can see, it’s amazing. I hope the video does it justice.
From the same outlook, a short confession of how hard this hike has been.
Not much time after the video, I finally got to the mine. It’s incredible to me how these guys worked these mines up in the middle of the mountains. They were definitely tenacious dudes.
Finally….. at the top.
A short video from the Outlook down into the Ouray Valley.
Three things I’ve learned as I descend back to the Suburban…..!!!
A selfie at 10,000 feet (or somewhere around that high…!!!)
Luckily, I didn’t get snowed on and the weather held out until I returned to the truck. Not only was it brutal going up because it was so steep, but heading down, my lower thighs were on fire because of the steep decline. We’ll see how the legs feel tomorrow. After some dinner and working on this post, it’s time for bed…!!! Good night…