Julia's Clarinet Solo

Today was Julia's last band concert (or play, or production, or anything like this) in elementary school. She has been going to school a little bit early a couple of times each week for band practice this year. Surprisingly, she volunteered to play a short solo of "Hey, Hey, Goodbye" at her last concert.

Although she played her solo several times for her teachers, we hadn't heard it yet at home. Julia didn't really practice at home (too many other fun things to do). The night before her solo we wanted her to play it through a couple of times for us. She probably tried 50 times and couldn't make it through the 25 or so notes without significantly messing up. We were a little concerned but how it would turn out, but her teachers assured us she would be fine.

When the time came for her solo she walked right up in front of all her classmates and crowd and absolutely nailed it! Stacey was very relieved and we were both very proud of her confidence and that she did so well.

Easter 2019 Pictures

Boulder Roubaix

I got up pretty early this morning to drive up north of Boulder for my second race. This time I was able to ride in the 40+ cat 5 group. This race is unique in that the course is about 50/50 dirt and paved roads. I got up there a little late because around 5 a.m. (a few miles from my house) I hit something sharp and it gashed the sidewall of one my tires. I had to turn around, head home, and throw everything into the back of my truck. Then, while stopping for gas (unplanned) a few minutes later, a woman approached me and needed a jump in the parking lot because her car was dead. Not the low key start I was hoping to have this early in the morning.

On to the race. It was a beautiful day for this short 18.5 mile course. I got caught out and missed the winning breakaway because it happened pretty much right at the start of the race. I had to sit in the second group, cover any moves, and then eventually shed rider after rider in the second group over the last 20% or so of the race. I finished first in that second group, slightly bummed I was caught out, but happy overall. I finished 7th out of 73.

One Cool Dude

Jonathan... with inspiration from his good friend at school, Michael.

Disneyland

This year we went to Disneyland for Spring Break. This was an amazing present from Grandpa and Grandma for their kids of all ages. We spent a few days in Southern California before spending three days in the park; staying onsite in the Grand Californian Hotel. We walked about 10 miles every day we were there.

There were so many highlights that I could mention. I'm not going to list off every single ride we did. Among all of us we pretty much hit all of the major rides and attractions. Jonathan was the bravest of the entire group and went on pretty much all of the adult rides. Major memories included going on Splash Mountain five times, Radiator Springs (and the Cars ride), Guardians of the Galaxy, and just getting to spend some time and make a lasting memory with the rest of the family.

Thanks Grandpa & Grandma!  We'll remember this for a long time and thankful that you are able to do this with us.

Space Shuttle Endeavour

Two is Better Than One

It's not common that a 40 year old son and his 68 year old Dad get to bike and run around the Rose Bowl together!

Workout Buddies

Julia and I went to the gym for the first time. I did 100 pull-ups and Julia did one mile on the treadmill, 100 sit-ups, and climbed some stairs. More importantly, we had a good time together!

Front Range Cycling Classic

Today I did my first official bike race. It was at the Air Force Academy.  I had a lot of fun and I learned some things my first time out. I really didn't have the racing mentality today since I was more interested in seeing what it was all about.  I finished 39th of the 67 men (of all ages) that were together in category 4 and 5. Not bad all things considered.  

This year I'm doing several different races and events to figure out what I like best (and what suits me best). I've been training very hard this winter with my coach, er, virtual coach, er, virtual indoor training program. It's been a good experience and I have definitely gotten to a point where I can "hang" as a result of the training program. Next up is to get more experience and learn the intricacies of bike racing.

Surprise Treat

I opened my lunch today and was surprised to find this from Julia. She had sneaked a piece of her chocolate into my lunch bag without me knowing. She's so thoughtful and sweet!