Texas Trek

About Me

2011-05-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

Father-Son time

2011-04-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday,

My father worked in politics and government all his life. We grew up outside of Washington DC and every summer we returned to Texas to see family. Being one of five kids, I rarely saw one on one time with my parents but I had a great childhood. I am not embarrassed to say that everything I know about camping, I learned from my wife. This weekend is all about some good father-son time as I am taking my son camping and I promise you that we are going to have a good time.

Tristan and I were talking over lunch the other day and I teased him that I was going to have to cancel the trip. He's such a good sport but he did give me the stare down of a lifetime. We are both really looking forward to this and we really need this too. He thinks this is all about him but his loving heart really charges me. Watch, I will be a new man on Monday.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend too. Call me next week and let's get together and share some positive energy.

--
Carle Aldrete
(877) 536-8337 toll free

Our mission statement is simple,
“To make our customers’ expectations a reality.”

http://360presssolutions.com/
CarleA@360PressSolutions.com

From 2009 Windy Terrace

2011-03-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

It’s so nice to see Spring again! Cyclists like me are definitely out there and enjoying this beautiful Central Texas weather. SXSW is coming to a close, daylight savings time has kicked in, schools are out for spring break and ahhhh, we will soon see some beautiful wildflowers lining up and down our highways.

A lot is going on, I know. I can sometimes hear the stress in your voice when I call. Take a moment to relax and breathe. Today I walked out onto the office patio and just enjoyed the breeze while I waited for the coffee to finish brewing. It was a quick recharge and it felt great!

The best part about my job building relationships with people like you. I work my tail off for you but I love a chance of just listening to you over a good cup of coffee. I’m here for you.

Have a great weekend. Call me when you get a chance and let’s talk.

Carle Aldrete

Sales & Marketing

360 Press Solutions

(512) 825-2075 m

(512) 381-2360 x. 211

(877) 536-8337 toll free

Our mission statement is simple,

“To make our customers’ expectations a reality.”

http://360presssolutions.com/

CarleA@360PressSolutions.com

Karate Gear, Weapons & Bags

2010-07-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

We earned our black belts and it did wonders for us. What an amazing experience that was! We have all the gear you need for dad and 3 kids.

Karate Gear, Weapons & Bags

Saturday Ride: Jul 10, 2010 4:38 PM in Austin

2010-07-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

It was hot but that was my best ride this season. I have a lot of miles to make up and a lot of stored fat to burn so plan on seeing me out there plenty these next few months. Man it feels good to be back.
MapMyRide - iMapMyRide: Jul 10, 2010 4:38 PM in Austin, TX

30 1/2 miles - 2 hours & 10 minutes - over 2000 calories burned

A New Year & Another Chance To Start Over

2010-01-01T20:31:00.001-08:00

Wow that felt great. I went and rode with the Kevins today. Had my thermals on and that was more than enough to be comfortable for 28 miles in this weather.

Kevin 1 wasn't feeling well and had to turn back but thank God for him because he got me out of the house. Now that the weather is cold I really need a lot more encouragement/prodding to continue cycling… All ride invitations are welcome.

Kevin 2 stuck with me for the trip through Twin Creeks and back. It's funny, I fly down that hill a lot faster wearing pants than I do in shorts because I was not afraid of crashing. With the wind and the cold my eyes did water a lot and it was difficult to focus at 40mph. Anyway, we had a good chat about the church and it was a very enjoyable ride. We looked around at all the people walking and jogging and wondered how many of them were out there because of new year's resolutions. Although I am not one to make resolutions I do set goals for myself and I felt very much like part of the crowd.

What do you do to keep going?

Hey, I'm back!

2009-10-19T18:53:00.001-07:00

Man have I been away for a while. Training for my first century ride became such a serious effort at the same time as my preparing for black belt testing that I was just overwhelmed and exhausted. Now I find myself slowing down and reading other people's blogs rather than keeping up my own momentum. Ugh, time to get back in the saddle Carle!!

I posted some pics on Facebook from the ride. It was quite an experience for me and thankfully my first Hotter N' Hell was gorgeous. I still broke a sweat but it was nothing compared to what most folks expect from this event. A record 14,200 cyclists showed up for this ride and that is a HECK of a lot more fellow riders than I am used to sharing the roads with.

The best part of the ride? I was happy to see the finish line ~ REALLY HAPPY!! I ruined a shoe recently during a 70 mile training ride in the rain but I had no idea how it would effect my foot. During the last few rest stops I had to pull off the shoe and stretch because I was experiencing some real pain. At the end I was so completely exhausted but I mustered just enough energy to race Kevin across the line. We could hear people clapping but when the announcer recognized our efforts and the applause got louder it made the race across the finish one of the BEST experiences of my life. I coasted underneath some sprayers but that was not enough to wash the salt from my body. I washed up in the bathroom and then found my way to a massage table.

On my way back to Austin I fantasized about how many other centuries I would ride before the season ended. Reality = zero! I am still riding but 35 miles is enough for now. My goal is to keep it up through the winter.

How are you doing?

Bike Noob said it all

2009-07-29T06:44:00.001-07:00

Great posts!! Thank you for sharing. Elden, you and Susan are in my thoughts and prayers as well...

Bike Noob

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MapMyRide.com - Road Cycling - Medium Intensity: Ride to the Arboretum on 07/28/2009

2009-07-28T18:31:00.001-07:00

MapMyRide.com - Road Cycling - Medium Intensity: Ride to the Arboretum on 07/28/2009

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Training Alone

2009-07-26T21:25:00.001-07:00

07/26/2009 - Hotter 'n Heck
Find more Bike Rides in Leander, Texas

The Tour is Coming - The Tour is Coming

2009-07-02T22:15:00.001-07:00

I am so excited - can't wait to watch.

2009 Armadillo Hill Country Classic

2009-05-09T20:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to Patti Hill for putting on an amazing event. Adam, thanks so much for being the first to photograph me. As a photographer I thought you might agree with me that we are never captured but then I saw all those pics of you on the meetup page. Geez have you got
friends!

I did this ride alone but there were so many people out there that I never felt lonely. The volunteers were great and the rest stops were very friendly. I met a few people along the way and was inspired by other injured folks who fought through the pain like I did to complete this ride. This was another training ride in preparation for the Tour de Cure so I felt giving up would be like letting down all of the folks who sponsored me and I was not about to let that happen.

There was a killer hill that I like to refer to as the "KILLER HILL". =) I stopped to photograph it from the bottom and this old man turned to me and said "you can't turn back now young man". Priceless. I think that this was near mile 40 or so of 63. I put my camera away and hit it as hard as I could. I know I had to stand up quickly and even when I saw others getting off to walk I was NOT going to do that. When I made it to the top I could barely breathe but I was victorious. I saw friends at the top high-fiving one another and I enjoyed the moment. I grabbed my camera and while gasping I took a few more shots.

Finally, in the last ten miles, I found a woman to chase. My knee was killing me but she was just fast enough to encourage me to push. My goal was to complete the miles, not make any kind of time records but then again I did want to cross the finish before all the sandwiches were gone. Her encouragement? "C'mon Jelly Belly!" I hope to see her again some day so that I can thank her for that.

Patti, in case I didn't tell you, we all loved the ride and I will be back next year, to ride AND volunteer. The 2009 Armadillo Hill Country Classic

Rosedale Ride 2009

2009-03-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

The 15^th Annual Rosedale Ride!

Saturday, March 28^th, 2009

The Rosedale Ride is an annual bike ride benefiting Rosedale School, the Austin Independent School District's only school for children with multiple disabilities.

I know for a fact that the hills training we did last week helped me to be strong today in the cold and blistering winds. Despite the cold and wind, this ride was much easier than Bastrop's Pedal Through The Pines. Best of all was the volunteers. They had people lined up everywhere guiding and supporting the cyclists. At one rest stop they had kids running up to us saying "You want me to hold your bike sir?" By far the best volunteers I have ever seen on any ride.

I ran into a few people I know including Eric, Catie's boyfriend who was with his brother and father. I hope I can keep up with my kids in 10 plus years like Eric's dad. They flew past me in the last 7 miles.

At the very first rest stop I got some mud stuck in my left cleat and I'm pretty sure that is what caused the extreme knee pain I experienced at the tail end of the ride. (last 10 miles) I'm reading up on it now. I don't know but it sounds like I need to go in for another fitting.

I have been kind of sick this week. The one thing I am sure of right now is that my body is dead tired. Another 63 miles clocked and the training continues. I have fallen asleep three times since I got home and I am ready to get to bed again. Good night!

Dam Ride Last Saturday

2009-03-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I are still training for the Tour de Cure. Last Saturday we elected to do hills and not little ones but a big dam hill. For those of you who do not recognize the scene, this is Highway 620 that leads down to the dam by the lake. As I was taking this photo I could feel the bike picking up speed quickly and the wind was rushing at me. I would be lying if I said I wasn't afraid when putting my phone back in my jersey. You do not want to go down this hill with only one hand on the bars.

"A casual spin around the neighborhood may be an excellent recovery workout, but to challenge the cardiovascular system and reach peak fitness, you have to invest a little more energy. As with running, that means quality workouts like tempo rides, intervals, and hills."

"Short, high-intensity, steep climbs will raise your anaerobic threshold and give you that “top end” for tough sections on the mountain bike or particularly steep climbs when out road cycling."

We only clocked 50 miles but it was a great ride. We even stopped at a little taco stand in Lakeway, between the drive thru beer barn and the fireworks store.... And James claims that there is no culture in this part of town. Bah! Anyway, note to all, greasy barbacoa tacos are better than any energy bar out there.

The Steiner Ranch and Lakeway areas are very hilly and we got a great workout. In fact, I am certain that this workout will be a tremendous help in future rides. No one wants weak legs. =)

Hittin' the Hills

2009-03-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday's weather was nothing like we've seen these last couple of days. Temps in the mid 40's, Kevin and I were proud of the fact that we even made it out there. The subject of this posting may sound like we were intentional in our selection but the truth is we chose the hills to avoid the wind on our normal routes.

In the Great Hills area of Austin, we hit Yaupon, a steep 8% grade. The caution sign is at the top of the hill and I saw it just before we flew down! We turned to go back up and it looked ever so daunting. This photo does NOT do the hill justice. As I gasped my way up the hill, I sucked in so much cold air that my throat became really sore. Kevin seems to think that we should start repeating this climb regularly until we can make it 6 or 7 times. I want to be optimistic and think positively but seriously, is that possible for me? What kind of time frame are we looking at for successfully accomplishing a goal like that?

Is there anything that I can say or feet/time that I can calculate that will convey to you in words exactly how challenging this hill really is?

The afternoon temps are now in the 80's again and I'm riding in the morning before work. All my friends and cycling buds are somehow on Spring Break, enjoying this awesome weather and riding during the day. You guys suck!

Our Fund Raising Progress

2009-03-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

I received an email from the leaders of the American Diabetes Association here in Austin. The event is two months away and they are so far from reaching their goal. I increased my goal from $1000 to $1500 and you guys really came through. This is my first experience with fund raising and I have to tell you that your donations have inspired me to really get involved with volunteering. I am not sure what to do at this point with the Tour de Cure. Should I stop raising funds where I am or press on to see how well we can really do? What do you think?

Carle

2009-03-10T13:05:00.000-07:00

Click here to check out
The Austin Endurance Cycling Meetup Group!

Pedal Thru the Pines!

2009-03-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

This was my first time attending this ride so for those of you who have never heard of this event, here is a brief summary of why we ride:

"The 7^th Annual ride through the beautiful Bastrop Pines supports the mission of the Family Crisis Center, which offers programs and services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse in Bastrop, Fayette, Lee and Colorado Counties."

Members of the Austin Endurance Cycling Meetup Group joined up at the Chestnut Theater in Bastrop before the ride. We met some new people like Adam and Chris and saw regular biker buds like Matt, Todd and of course there was the leader babe, Patti. As I said, this was my first time Pedaling through the Pines so I didn't know what to expect, except of course the first hill that Weiland mentioned so I thought/hoped that was the end of the hills. In order for me to complete 63 miles I needed as few hills as possible. Well, that was far from the last hill. Ugh, I have never encountered so many hills. Todd said that one of the park hills had a 22% grade. It was a short lasting hill but at the beginning of a metric century it was tough. My family has camped in this park before but I have never seen it or appreciated it's beauty like I did while cycling. Flying down some of these steep and winding park roads was a thrill but left no real site seeing time because I needed that speed to get up the next hill. You also might notice that I have no photos of the hills - no way was I reaching for my phone while going up or down in this place. I was exhausted but happy to be out of the park. I saw flat roads and thought the next 53 miles would be more of the same. NOT!

The first rest stop was great. I saw bikes there that I had only dreamed about. Teams of cyclists pulled in wearing the same jerseys, all with top of the line equipment and Italian bikes. What would I do with one of those bikes? Right, I know. I'm perfectly fine with what I have but a guy has got to drool once in a while.

I felt like I was going to collapse a few times during the 63 miles but this was more than appropriate. When I saw the second stop was across from a cemetery I found it funny to see bikes standing along the edge. It was as if they knew I was coming.

Every stop we made we got a chance to listen to others complain about the wind. Patti may have complained about the wind once but that is only because it blew the sweat off my face and onto her. =) Now, don't get me wrong, the wind was strong but it just does not compare to the winds in the Hutto area when you ride the Round Rock Salt Lick Ride. There were so many trees in Bastrop that it gave you shelter long enough to get ready for the next gust. You don't get that kind of break in Hutto. So, if you'll listen I would choose to complain about the hills. Not that they were bad or unfortunate, the hills were just a real challenge and I am a better cyclist because of them.

If you haven't been fortunate enough to meet our buddy Patti, I encourage you to join her meetup. She really helped me get over the last few hills of the day. I chased her often and we had some great conversation. We haven't known each other long but my kids love her - they feel like she could be one of my sisters.

For me, I would love to do this ride again next year. I think that it helped me train for the Tour de Cure and I need all the help I can get.
Finally, this last image is one that Adam shot. It is a beautiful view of the last hills before reaching the highway. It looks peaceful but it was not. The wind came gusting in hard from the left and at 35 mph your entire body is flexed including your butt in an effort to keep the bike vertical.

Until next time,

Carle

Tour de Cure 2009

2009-03-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

What a year this is turning out to be! I am recently becoming more involved with the church, I am taking a class, I am networking, I have joined clubs & groups, I am looking for opportunities to volunteer and for the first time ever, I am fund raising. This must be what "living" is all about. I feel truly blessed by the support from friends, family and clients who are joining me in the fight against diabetes. In 24 hours we have almost reached the half way point of our one thousand dollar goal.

The link to my Tour de Cure page is to the right under "Links I Like". Feel free to share it with everyone you know so that they can join in the fight too. Thank you so much to everyone who has already joined me.

Carle

Hellacious Winds Today

2009-02-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

Oh my gawd, I am totally exhausted. This will be short because I just don't think that I have it in me to type much. Kevin and I traveled 50 miles today and the first 30 were against the wind. Now I have cycled the Hutto, TX Salt Lick ride with Patti's Endurance Cycling Group and that can be a real test but today was my most challenging ride to date. I have never encountered winds like this in my life. Kevin and I took turns drafting (thank you Kevin) but I have got to step up my training before the 65 mile Pedal Through the Pines on March 7th.

I am going to ice my back now and relax. Have a great week everyone.

Another 45 miles

2009-01-21T17:42:00.000-08:00

Today was a GREAT ride. My legs are spent but I am nourishing them with beer and pork chops. Although we encountered some very strong winds, it was by far a better ride than last week. It is amazing to me how that wind shoots across those farms. I wish that I had video taped some of the flags that we saw. We took the same route past Hutto but this time it was just the three of us, for the most part. Todd broke off from the group after the first 10 to 15 miles. It was a lot warmer today, in the mid 70's.

I feel my training improving and with these friends in front of me to chase, why wouldn't I? There is not much more to say today except that we had to outrun this train. That was fun.

My pork chops need to come off of the grill now and I cannot focus on my story.

Next time.

45 miles: Tuesday Afternoon in Hutto

2009-01-13T19:39:00.000-08:00

Hooray for the Austin Endurance Cyclists Group. Today's ride was fun but boy was it tough. The wind would not leave us alone so at times some of the tiny hills we did encounter were just exhausting. It wasn't quite as cold as I thought it would be, I finished strong but I guarantee you that I will sleep well tonight. I am wiped out. It took us about 3 and a half hours to ride the 45 mile loop. That's pretty slow but as Patti put it, this is January in Round Rock and the wind blows strong over those plowed corn and cotton fields.

Along for the ride were fellow endurance cyclists, John, Todd, Cliff, Patti, Amy and Heidi. Todd the cycling machine led the pack until it was his time to leave us. I missed him terribly because I drafted nicely behind him while he was with us. After that we all took turns leading and taking a little shelter from the wind. These are all good people and I am lucky to be riding with them. Encouragement, support and friendly conversation is everything you need to get through this ride. Well, that and some GU, Clif Shots, Clif Bars and a few liters of water.

Ya know, there were parts of this ride when we didn't see a single car or person for miles. I really want to ride this route again this summer when it's warmer. Did I mention how chilly and windy it was?

There were some beautiful sights along this route. I saw cute little ponies, cows, donkeys, but the best sights were the Manville water tower, another stretch of smooth road and my truck when we returned to the Salt Lick restaurant.

I have got to sign off and get to bed now. I went to karate tonight and I should have stayed at home. My entire body is tired and I fear my brain is not producing a decent story here. So goodnight all and thanks for a fun afternoon. I enjoyed the brisket and the friendships.

ACA Ride_Cotton Capers: 42 miles

2009-01-11T18:34:00.000-08:00

What a day! We met at 1:00 and I was so excited to finally train with our Meetup Leader, Patti - but unfortunately she left her shoes at home. She insisted we go on without her and have fun. FUN INDEED!!

It was a gorgeous day. I thought maybe it was going to be a bit chilly but nah, it was perfect... except for the WIND. This is the opposite side of town from where I normally ride but wow - it was exactly what I love about riding in Austin. It had everything including very small towns, farms, ranches, cows, horses, sheep, goats, and I had no clue where I was. It looked like I had driven hours outside of town but apparently these beautiful scenes are just past the city limits. There were a few narrow roads but thank God for light country traffic, there was only a few farm trucks and horse trailers which allowed us to ride together more often.

When we were separated from the rest of the group (too slow to keep up with the Elite) I relied on Matt and his map reading skills. I forgot my map on my first ACA ride, "What an idiot! Gawd!" I thought it was amazing to ride up to the New Sweeden Church, I had to take a picture of it. The church was a tiny little place just 30 feet from a cotton field. Anyway, it was when we almost rode up to it the second time that Matt took a closer look at his map. Don't get me wrong, if it was not for Matt I might still be out there trying to find my way back.

I thought it was hilarious riding through Manor. Obviously I was getting tired because this was part of our route, it's just that I never imagined myself cycling on that side of town, so far away from home. The last few hills were killer. I really didn't think I was going to make it up one very long and windy hill but I pushed through and was so happy to be back to my truck. It took us 3 hours which included a couple snack stops to visit with other cyclists and map stops to make sure we were on the right road. This 42 miles seemed like so much more and I am sure that my legs will be hating me tomorrow.

Can't wait for the next ride guys! That really was fun.

It does not feel like January!

2009-01-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

Kevin took me on another tour this morning. I was still sore from my 2 days of boot camp and he was not feeling 100%. We weren't certain about our route but Williamson County has so many options we just agreed to avoid the dam. I love the flat and pretty scenes so Kevin took me through Avery Ranch out to Sam Bass Road and Brushy Creek.

He told me more about his planned route from Austin to Lubbock. 400 miles in 4 days! As he mentioned all of the West Texas towns that I remember fondly from my college days, I started to reminisce. And then as we rode past multi-acre lots covered in brown grass I felt as if I was already there. It was beautiful. Sure we're training for long back to back 80 mile rides and we should include hills and intervals in our workouts but this January 3rd, 2009 with the temperature around 80 degrees, a steady 15 mph pace for 35 miles is exactly what I needed.

We made two quick stops to eat our snacks, my Clif Bar and Kevin's homemade healthy brownie concoction that no one else in his family will eat. For those of you thinking that making 2 stops during a 35 mile ride is pretty weak, I have yet to tell you about the winds. If you have read my other entries from this winter then you know what it can be like and it always seems to happen on the way home too. The sun was out and the temperature was wonderful but those darn wind gusts blowing right in our faces as we travel up the smallest of hills was enough to drain me every time.

Well I am off to bed. Sweet dreams and goodnight. Kevin, thanks again for the ride and I look forward to reading the Lance Armstrong book you bought me.

37 miles: Kevin Rhodes

2008-12-20T14:19:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy riding with my karate buddy Kevin. Instead of traveling the same roads I normally ride, he takes me on a tour of Williamson County. Kevin is from Lubbock, about my age, enjoys cycling, karate, loves his family, and God so we get along great. Today he got me lost down some Country Road and getting lost in the country is one of my favorite things to do when cycling.

We have decided to enter the Tour de Cure together in May. 80 miles on Saturday followed by 80 miles on Sunday. The Tour benefits The American Diabetes Association. I still need to register, create a donation page and maybe make some custom jerseys. That would be cool. My boss, Jane, has asked me to design some AlphaGraphics cycling jerseys so that works out nicely. A little advertising with our fundraising. Kevin created a spreadsheet for us to train by and that's perfect for me. I loved the spreadsheet that Patsy created for the Aldrete Family Fitness Challenge because nothing motivates me more than documenting my successes......and money.

I will keep you posted on our progress. My friend Mark Callahan has been very involved in the Tour de Cure. If anyone wants their company to sponsor a great team, let me know and I can put you in touch with Mark. He is going all out!

Have a great weekend.

Carle

Indoor Training

2008-12-16T14:28:00.000-08:00

Hey, I wanted to show off my latest and most likely last fitness equipment investment. (a Christmas present to myself) Now. I cannot use my rollers when I am sleepy because it's just too dangerous. All too often my chance to workout comes when it's late and the kids are in bed and at that point I too am usually ready for bed. Anyway, I bought me a nice trainer on Craigslist. It took me a little while to dial it in right - but thank God for the internet because I found other people who couldn't get this thing to operate correctly at first but were nice enough to share their advice on what finally worked. The problem is usually with tension and tire pressure so I bought a metal quick release skewer for the rear wheel, inflated my rear tire to 120psi, added more resistance to the trainer and now it rides smooth and I am as happy as can be. Well I might like a TV in the room where I workout but that's okay because I have my iPod and some heart pumping podcasts. I strongly suggest not listening to talk podcasts while on a trainer. (a quick trip to Snoozetown)

Sweet Dreams!

Windy days & Sundays always get me down...the road

2008-12-14T17:44:00.000-08:00

Oh how wonderful it is to ride on down Parmer Lane. I made GREAT time the first 25 miles but after stopping to eat my oranges I finally realized which way the wind was blowing exactly. It had been blowing behind me but now it was time to turn around and head home. My friend Mark had told me how Parmer Lane can get windy and I had experienced it before but this time it was different. I had not ridden for almost two weeks so I was getting tired. Fighting 35+mph wind gusts on the return trip took everything I had. As I past this used car lot on Parmer I had to stop and photograph the flags and capture how strongly they were moving. The direction of the wind was in my face.

For 3 hours and 10 minutes I rode and I only saw two other cyclists.

I much prefer days with a LOT less wind but you will never hear me complain about a 70° Sunday afternoon in the middle of December when I can ride 42 miles or more. When I left the house it was cloudy but when I got back home it was sunny and I had new tan lines. I'm sure I burned a ton of calories but more importantly I feel good.

Happy holidays everyone.

On the Road Again!

2008-11-16T13:51:00.000-08:00

What a great feeling to get back out on the road again. My bike was in the shop for a few days last week so it was nice to get it back. I rode Friday morning and that went well. Saturday was incredibly windy. Serious gusts as a result of the cold front that blew in so I need not mention the cold. Even with layered clothing, my belly was CHILLY when I came home and I did have to cut my ride short because the wind was just too much for me to fight.

Today I wanted to travel FAR but I knew my time was limited when I was reminded to get back in time for a kiddie birthday party.I headed west on Parmer Lane until it hit the 29 Junction. It's beautiful out here, Longhorn cattle on the side of the road, very little traffic, a fair number of other cyclists traveling, and lots of decent hills. These hills are not like the hills on 360 but it's still a great place to ride and a good place to train. I did 35 miles in 2 1/2 hours which included one stop to snack and one stop to call home.

Next weekend I hope to ride out to Marble Falls. From the Galleria, south of the Dam, it should be 63 miles round trip. Hmmm, this will be the day after the tamalada at James and Elma's house so I better not eat and drink too much. If you guys want to do something else on Sunday, let me know. Otherwise, I'll try to get some better pictures on that trip.

Love you!

Outlaw Trail 100

2008-10-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well I finally did it. I rode 65 miles in four hours and twelve minutes. There were a couple of stops - I didn't make it all that way without taking a break. The first was the longest as it included some hamstring stretching time and a quick phone call to my sister Patsy, "23 miles down and 40 to go." is the message I left on her voicemail. It was fun at the first stop because it looked a little like a biker bar. Rows of bikes lined the shoulders. At the second and third stop I rode right up to the cookie baskets, grabbed a couple chocolate chips and off I went. Mile 23 takes you through the city of Walburg. It's a cool little town. Lots of rust covered farm equipment everywhere, beautiful little homes and no noise except for the visiting cyclists and the occasional rooster.

I saw so many sites. I saw lots of award winning cattle, I mean these were gorgeous animals. They looked like they were just bathed. I saw goats, donkeys, turkeys, lots of horses and the prettiest were the Paint Horses. (sorry, no photos). I saw a cyclist fall, I saw some families working, but the coolest site of all was that of nobody rushing.

I have been planning this tour for a while now and I am so pleased with my accomplishment but actually a little sad that it's over. It has been my goal to go far but the farther I traveled the thinner the crowd became so at times it got kind of lonely. I do appreciate the solitude of this sport and in some of these photos you will see just how peaceful this ride was. There doesn't appear to be anything for a mile or so and that was pretty cool. These were big farms, recently plowed, so I saw soil so rich that it looked like dark chocolate.

On the down side, this was out in the country, past the city limits sign, where the bumpy road met my tail bone line. As much as I appreciate flat road, I would have preferred more hammering up hills with my thighs screaming in pain, than the constant vibration against my bottom from the long and rocky "road". And I was wearing my really good shorts. I remember a conversation that I had with some guy after I turned onto a smooth road. I said, "Oh, thank God!" and he said, "Yep." -- true story. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining one bit. I loved it out there!

It was a huge surprise to me when energy hit me. After two hours of riding I sucked down a Mocha Clif Shot which is a little like chugging a small bottle of hersheys syrup. It's funny, one minute you think your legs are done for the day, "check out time", "see ya back at the truck" and the next minute your passing people left and right and laughing about it. "Uh, what was that about?"

Alright, enough story. It was wonderful and I cannot wait for my first Century Ride. If only there could be 100 miles of smooth, quiet, country road, I'd be in heaven. Suggestions anyone? Oh, I forgot this one. I checked out the website tonight and browsed the 253 photos from the ride. The very last photo, number 253, where the slide show ends, there is a glimpse of me, Mr. Argyle jersey. Check this out....can you see me? Almost off screen.

40 miles in the wind!

2008-10-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

Hey, you know what I remember most about last year's Outlaw 100? It's the wind, the really strong wind. Today was a lot like that and after my recent Steiner Ranch ride I feel like there is no avoiding the wind in Williamson County in October. I installed aerobars recently and have really enjoyed taking some of the pressure off my shoulders but also these things really allowed me to cut through the wind a little better when I didn't have to fight it.

I saw some beautiful sights today. First I saw a giant llama -- that was unusual. Sorry but no photo. A few miles later I rode around the back of a building that was next to a ranch and saw about 100 monarch butterflies enjoying a row of wildflowers. I went down a County Road that I thought would take me past the cows that scared me on a recent ride but instead I found a wounded deer laying on the side of road. It was hard to see at first as it blended it with the brush and it was in the shade. It stared at me as I rode by and as I circled around again and again she turned her head, watching me. I called Patsy for help because I didn't like the idea of it dying there. As I pedaled off for the last time, I saw her lay her head down and I assume her time was fading. Patsy got in touch with Texas Parks and Wildlife and I hope that they made it in time to save her. I turned in to check out the Preserve, a gorgeous community. These homes must be near a million dollars. They were absolutely amazing. I saw lots of healthy happy deer running in this neighborhood and I could hear little animals scurrying in the grass. On my way back out to the highway I saw horses being followed by donkeys.

It was a lovely ride and I wanted to keep going but then I remembered the Cowboys were playing so all of a sudden I wished that I was home. I inhaled my snacks and chugged my water hoping that it would give me the energy I needed to get home in a hurry. I got home, showered, dressed, made a protein smoothie and sat down just in time for the second half. Whew! I'm pooped.

My first 63 mile ride is coming up in 6 days. The plan is to cut back on the training and add to the energy reserves. I'm eating healthy all week and hope to store in my body the stuff I need for a long long ride.

Sweet dreams. I'm off to bed.

True Fitness!

2008-10-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

And I was worried about working out at the hotel....HA! I really thought that it would be too easy and I'd miss my bike at home. How wrong I was. Those machines really kicked my butt. My legs were hurtin' ALL DAY LONG! Oh and thank goodness for the towels and the cup holders. I have read about interval training but I have never really tried except for when I used to run. I did the interval program on this machine and it was tough.

The second day I went to the fitness room at 5:30am and this is after drinking with Patsy and Jane until midnight. There was an someone on my machine so I had to try out the elliptical machine instead. How lame right? NOT! I would recommend the Radisson fitness centers to anyone. Luckily the recumbant bike machine was free after 20 minutes on the elliptical.

Summary: no excuses for any of our travelling siblings. Get your butts out of bed and down to the fitness rooms. Oh and if available, try the Radisson. They have Sleep Number beds and great fitness centers.

Cycling Steiner Ranch

2008-10-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

I took a different route today. Instead of my normal rides I chose to focus on hills. Feeling a little groggy I decided not to go all the way down to Mansfield Dam but turn into Steiner Ranch instead. I have never been down these roads before so I found myself going at a slightly slower than usual pace - not much really but down these steep hills I did grip the brakes tightly. My back didn't hurt when standing up on the bike so I pushed myself to be stronger on the inclines. It was a beautiful day but at these heights the greatest challenge was the crosswinds. As soon as I cleared a group of trees or a building the winds came hard and fast over the tops of these hills. So hard sometimes that I thought I was going to blow over.

The views were beautiful. I still feel the need to compete somehow with the landscapes that Cindy enjoys while cycling Charlottesville, VA. These are a few that I took with my phone. I now take my cell phone with me as a safety precaution because the more that I ride the farther away from home I get. And if I encounter any mechanical trouble or take a spill like Patsy did I'll be in trouble without it.

I made it up the biggest hill today without stopping. I was so proud of myself. It felt like my lungs were baking as I gasped for more HOT air. Have you seen one of those cartoons where the character is yelling and his mouth is like 4 times bigger than normal? That is how I imagined myself as I went up this hill. I guess that little chuckle I made was just enough to stay positive when the pain in my legs kicked in. I can't say that I'll try this again any time soon but knowing that I made it made a big difference in my heart.

Anyway, I'll be on the stationary bike at the hotel for the next few days. We'll see how that goes. I'll be thinking about you guys and remembering my trip through Steiner Ranch.

Me? Using Rollers?

2008-09-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

So you might be wondering, with Amy and Sabrina gone, how can I watch the kids and train at the same time? Well I admit, it sure aint easy. In fact, looking up to see anything is a challenge. I tried it for ten minutes this morning and was just too afraid that I would fall and die or at least fracture something, while they slept. I tried it again after coming home from work this evening but this time I took it outside so that I could "listen" to them play.

It was a good night here at the Aldrete house. Sydni and I read together, Tristan learned how to take pictures with my phone and I dripped sweat on the driveway - and on my bike. Now I know what this thing is for. We ate lasagna and garlic bread followed by a frozen juice bar. Finally we knocked out homework, Tristan practiced Heartbreak Hotel on his guitar and I got them to bed - a little later than I wanted to but it went well and Sydni said that she was happy and proud of me.

Back to the driveway workout, my neighbors were thoroughly confused. People slowed down to look at me and see what I was doing. The metal drums made a bit of squeal when spinning and the faster I went the louder they got. John came over and gave me that look that Eddie gave every portrait photographer as a child. Kind of like that confused Scooby Doo look and sound. Well, I may look balanced and comfortable in this photo but it took a lot of work not to fall off of there. I wish that this thing was about a foot wider and a whole lot quieter.

How about you guys, how you doing?

******************************

Yoga for Cyclists

2008-09-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

The other day I attended a free workshop at Bicycle Sports Shop in South Austin. The instructor, Gioconda, was amazing! The place was so full that many of us had to lay our mats outside the classroom area. For us first timers, we got a free mat and a great experience. There is nothing to fear, Gioconda is so easy to follow. She invited us closer so that we could see better how to perform certain stretches and really counter the effects of being on the bike for hours and hours. I recommend her classes to anyone.

I need to keep this up.