Believe

I was too devastated at the loss of Mom to decorate for Christmas last year. If I were to have one wish, it would be to have peace and love in my life. I could never have imagined things would be oaky without having Mom around to share the holidays. It is true. Wishes do come true.

Christmas is a time of believing. Believing in hope. Believing that the impossible is possible. Christmas time is when you ask for something that you really want. Not what you need, but something your heart desires. It is a spirit of giving and helping others get their Red Ryder BB gun that gets me excited about Christmas time.

This year, I have hope and decorated two Christmas trees. Even more exciting is having the help of children to decorate. They believe for every tree that they decorate, there will be gifts under that tree. Their imagination and pure optimism is contagious. I am convinced Santa will slip something under the tree for me too and maybe, just maybe, I will get that Tiffany engagement ring that is on my wish list.

November 30: Music Month

This month started with an idea to bring music to my blog. The first three days went smooth and then it became harder to gather the thoughts in my head and relate those thoughts to songs. Time slipped away from me and it was hard to force creativity in a sliver so small.

All the while, Barbieandherbike had emotional times in the love department. My independence and self identity have been placed on a balance beam and my spirit continues to search a new adventure to conquer.

Barry sings about his first, his last, and his everything. I reflect on who that would be for me and for now, my who is me.

You’re the First, the Last, My Everything
By: Barry White

My first, my last, my everything,
And the answer to all my dreams.
You're my sun, my moon, my guiding star.
My kind of wonderful, that's what you are.

I know there's only, only one like you
There's no way they could have made two.
You're, you're all I'm living for
Your love I'll keep for evermore.
You're the first, my last, my everything.

In you I've found so many things,
A love so new, only you could bring.
Can't you see if you,
You'll make me feel this way,
You're like a first morning dew on a brand new day.

I see so many ways that I can love you,
'Till the day I die....
You're my reality, yet I'm lost in a dream.
You're my first, my last, my everything.

[instrumental]

I know there's only one, only one like you
There's no way they could have made two.
Girl, you're my reality.
But I'm lost in a dream,
You're the first, you're the last, my everything.

November 29: Music Month

Sunday Morning
By: Maroon 5

Sunday morning, rain is falling
Steal some covers, share some skin
Clouds are shrouding us in moments unforgettable
You twist to fit the mold that I am in
But things just get so crazy, living life gets hard to do
And I would gladly hit the road, get up and go if I knew
That someday it would lead me back to you
That someday it would lead me back to you

[Chorus]
That may be all I need
In darkness, she is all I see
Come and rest your bones with me
Driving slow on Sunday morning
And I never want to leave

Fingers trace your every outline
Paint a picture with my hands
Back and forth we sway like branches in a storm
Change the weather, still together when it ends

[Chorus]

But things just get so crazy, living life gets hard to do
Sunday morning, rain is falling and I'm calling out to you
Singing, "Someday it'll bring me back to you."
Find a way to bring myself back home to you

[Chorus]

November 25: Music Month

Today, I need some music to get me moving. Maybe some hip shaking is even in order. You can check out the video, complete with dancing girls in bikinis. If that doesn't wake you up, then I don't know what will.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zp1TbLFPp8&ob=av2e
http://lyricstranslate.com/en/danza-kuduro-dance-kuduro.html

Danza Kuduro
Don Omar
(English translation)

El Orfanato
Danza Kuduro (Plop, Plop, Plop…)
Lucenzo
El Rey…!

Put your hands up
Moving only the hips
Turn half around
Dance to Kuduro
Don't lose your breath now
Because this has just started
Move your head
Dance to Kuduro

Put your hands up
Moving only the hips
Turn half around
Dance to Kuduro
Don't lose your breath now
Because this has just started
Move your head
Dance to Kuduro

Who's going to control the power of this wicked feeling that now gets through your veins
and the heat like the sun that can't let you be still at the beat, babe.
Who's going to stop this feeling that makes your hips lose control as you dance.
This fire burning inside you slowly is gonna get you wild

Put your hands up
Moving only the hips
Turn half around
Dance to Kuduro
Don't lose your breath now
Because this has just started
Move your head
Dance to Kuduro

Move your body, this here is so crazy
Morena, come to my side
No one is going to be still
I want to see you, come on, shake to kuduro
Move your body, this here is so crazy
Morena, come to my side
No one is going to be still
Oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi…
Come shake your hips, let's dance kuduro
Oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi, oi…
Brunette or blonde, come on, dance the kuduro
Oi, oi, oi…

November 23: Music Month

This song is for all you salseros out there. Many a night, I have danced the night away with horns blaring this popular song.

“El Cantante” was remade by Marc Anthony and originally performed by salsa legend Hecor Lavoe. Attached is a link to the movie that Marc and J. Lo stared in, portraying Mr. Lavoe’s life. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0KXQ9UknPQ

El cantante (The Singer)
By: Marc Anthony

I have attached the lyrics translated in English but you may find the Spanish translation at the link below. http://lyricstranslate.com/en/el-cantante-add-english-title-here.html

I am the singer
that you've come to listen to today
and I'm going to present to you
the best of my repertoire

And I sing to life
(I sing) of laughters and sorrows
of bad moments
and of good things

You've come to enjoy yourselves
and you paid an entrance fee
there's no time for sadness
let’s go singer, begin

They always stop me in the street
a lot of people who comment
hey Hector! oh, you've made it!
always with women and in parties

And nobody asks me
if I suffer, if i cry
if I have a sorrow
that hurts me deep inside

I am the singer
because my thing is to sing
and the public pays
to be able to listen to me

I am the singer
very popular everywhere
but once the show is over
I'm like any other human being

And I continue my life
with laughters and sorrows
with bitter moments
and with good things

I am the singer
and my business is to sing
and to those who follow me
I want to offer my song

November 22: Music Month

I close my eyes and I can see him. The memory is vivid. The song, "Give into me"
was playing and we are starring into each others eyes. He is softly rubbing my
check and it is as if he can look into my soul. We do not have to speak buts our touch and kiss express what no words can say.

The sunset is glistening off the reflection of the lake and the light from the
lamp fills the room. It is in this moment that I feel his love. It is now that I
know his love.

Give In To Me
By: Garrett Hedlund
From the soundtrack: Country Strong

I’m gonna wear you down
I’m gonna make you see
I’m gonna get to you
You’re gonna give into me

I’m gonna start a fire
You’re gonna feel the heat
I’m gonna burn for you
You’re gonna melt for me

(Hedlund and Meester)
Come on, come on
Into my arms
Come on, come on
Give into me

(Meester)
You’re gonna take my hand
Whisper the sweetest words
And if you’re ever sad
I’ll make you laugh
I’ll chase the hurt

(Hedlund and Meester)
My heart is set on you
I don’t want no one else
And if you don’t want me
I guess I’ll be all by myself

Come on, come on
Into my arms
Come on, come on
Give into me

(Meester)
I’ll use my eyes to draw you in
Until I’m under your skin
I’ll use my lips, I’ll use my arms
Come on, come on, come on
Give into me

(Hedlund & Meester)
Give into me
Give into me

November 21: Music Month

Nosey Joe
By: Brian Setzer Orchestra

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8HnxcvdXn8

There's a man in town all the women know
He goes by the name of Nosey Joe
He don't care if they're married
He takes his pick
Long as they're women, he's ready to stick

His big nose in their business
His big nose in their business
That's Nosey Joe, the nosiest guy I know

He ain't good lookin' and he ain't big and stong
The guy's got a nose that's four foot long
I'm tellin' you women, this ain't no jive
If you get too close this man will drive

His big nose in your business
His big nose in your business
That's Nosey Joe, the nosiest guy I know

I saw him just the other day
Tried to steal my gal away
He offered her money
He offered her love
She said thank you sir, but please don't shove

Your big nose in my business
Your big nose in my business
That's Nosey Joe, the nosiest guy I know

Old Nosey finally lost his life
Messin' with my buddy's wife
My buddy caught him with his chick
Chopped off his nose, now he can't stick

His big nose in my business
His big nose in my business
That's Nosey Joe, the nosiest guy I know

November 18: Music Month

Ride Like The Wind
By: Christopher Cross

It is the night. My body's weak.
I'm on the run. No time to sleep.
I've got to ride.

Ride like the wind to be free again.
And I got such a long way to go.
To make it to the border of Mexico.
So I'll ride like the wind.

I was born the son of a lawless man.
Always spoke my mind with a gun in my hand.
Lived nine lives
gunned down ten.
Gonna ride like the wind.

And I got such a long way to go.
To make it to the border of Mexico.
So I'll ride like the wind.
Ride like the wind.
Ride like the wind.

Accused and tried and told to hang
I was no where in sight
when the church bells rang.
Never was the kind to do as I was told.
Gonna ride like the wind before I get old.

It is the night. My body's weak.
I'm on the run. No time to sleep.
I've got to ride.
Ride like the wind to be free again.

And I got such a long way to go.
To make it to the border of Mexico.
So I'll ride like the wind.
Ride like the wind.

And I got such a long way to go.
To make it to the border of Mexico.
So I'll ride like the wind.
Gonna run like the wind.

November 17: Music Month

You’re A Dream Come True
By: Elton John and Leon Russell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1KVfiiwLRI

I can hear your heart
Pounding in my ear
Now I feel the sound
And the time is near
I feel the taste
Of all the things you do
Now the time has come
I know you're a dream come true

You make me so complete
With the things you do
And the music's sweet
You make me feel brand new
I hear the sound
Songs start coming through
Somehow I know
That you're a dream come true

It takes my breath
When it sounds that way
Seems like you
Chase the clouds away
And I feel so good
Each and every day
And life is good
Each and every way

Now I feel the beat
Of the dancing drums
And now I know we're
Gonna have some fun
Now the time stands still
And the blues are through
And now I know
What I'm gonna do

Now I feel the beat
Of the dancing drums
And now I know we're
Gonna have some fun
Now the time stands still
And all the blues are through
Now I know
What I'm gonna do

It takes my breath
When it sounds that way
Seems like you
Chase the clouds away
And I feel so good
Each and every day
And life is good
Each and every way

November 16: Music Month

It’s meringue time! Shakira, you make me crazy with all the hip shaking and I’m lovin’ it!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAhTt60W7qo&ob=av2e

Loca
By: Shakira

Loca…

Loca…

Dance or die…

Loca…

Loca…

She's playin' dumb all the time
Just to keep it fun
To get you on like (ahh!)
Be careful amigo
She talkin' and walkin' just to work you up
She’d die for your love
But your love’s only mine, boy

Sigo tranquila
Like I’m on a beach in Anguilla
Sippin’ on Corona
Like it’s nothin’ goin' on
I ain’t leavin’ you alone
What is meant for me
No other girl is gonna take
So keep them off

And I’m crazy, but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
You like that it ain’t easy (loca, loca, loca)
I’m crazy but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
Crazy but you like it

That girl is a nutter
Hot though, I heat up when I touch her
Chica caliente
Got me rapping to merengue
I feel so el presidente
I’m runnin’ sh!t and I’m lovin’ it
She’s got a mean lil’ butt,
But you should see what she does with it
She keeps it down low (down low, down low)
I can never get enough (oh no, oh no)
She gives me the runaround,
But I stay chasin’
But I mean, yo, I’m in love
With a crazy girl
But it’s all good
And it’s fine by me
Just as long as I hear her say, “Ay, papi”

And I’m crazy, but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
You like that it ain’t easy (loca, loca, loca)

I’m crazy but you like it
Crazy but you like it (loca, loca, loca)

You’re the one for me
And for her no more
Now you think she’s got it all
I got one kiki

You’re the one for me
And for her no more
Now you think she’s got it all
I got my kiki

There’s a lot of things
That I’d do to please you
Take you to the medico por el caminito
Cuz we’re gonna get some Mambo
Oh, what she do in the Laui?

I really can't help it
If I make the lady loca
I don’t want no trouble
I just wanna hit the (Ooh!)

And I’m crazy, but you like it
‘Cause the kinda girl like me
Is never far from the market
And I’m crazy, but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
You like that it ain’t easy (loca, loca, loca)
I’m crazy but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
Crazy but you like it (Dios Mío)

That girl is (loca)
That girl is (loca)
That girl is (loca)

Loca
That girl is (loca)
That girl is (loca)

You’re the one for me
And for her no more
Now you think she’s got it all
I got my kiki

And I’m crazy, but you like it (loca, loca, loca)
You like that it ain’t easy (loca, loca, loca)
La loca, la loca, la loca (loca)
Loca (loca)

November 15: Music Month

Designated Drinker
By: Allen Jackonson and George Straight

Here's my keys, I want you to take 'em
I think I'm gonna need you to get back home
Hold on to my hat, I don't wanna lose it
I couldn't stand for something else to be gone
I'm sure you know the reason I'm here cryin'
I think you'll understand why

Tonight, I'm the designated drinker
I just lost the one that wrapped me around her finger
I need to get to where I can't think of her
So tonight, I'm the designated drinker

I came here to get you to help me
I need a friend to see me through
I hated to call, I knew you wouldn't mind at all
I know you know I'd do the same for you
I'm not the kind that likes to drown my sorrow
I may hate myself tomorrow
Oh but

Tonight, I'm the designated drinker
I just lost the one that wrapped me around her finger
I need to get to where I can't think of her
So tonight, I'm the designated drinker

We need to get to where we can't think of her
So tonight, we're the designated drinkers

Oh tonight, we're the designated drinkers

November 14: Music Month

Aside from John Legend being incredibly sexy, he can also jam. Enjoy this song and I hope you get the “green light”.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-AbEO6J8s0

Green Light
By: John Legend

Give me the green light
Give me just one night
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now
(Let's go)
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now

[John Legend]
I see you move
I'm checking your smile
Working your back like it's going out of style
Shake just a little bit faster
Shake just a little now girl
Dying to meet you
So let's mess around
I've got an obsession of us getting down
Come just a little bit closer
I just need permission so

[Chorus:]
Give me the green light
Give me just one night
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now
We can go all night
Give me the green light
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now
A 1, 2, 3 green light
But if its what it seems like
The way you moving baby
Lets me know that's gonna be right
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now
A 1, 2, 3 red light
I wanna see what your beds like
But if I be your buddy
Help you study
Gets your head right
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now

[John Legend]
Do I have a girlfriend
Technically no
If you be my girlfriend
Then I'll make it so
You'll be my only true lover
No competition no other (no other)
Baby is just the thrill of the chase
But I've got a feeling that I'm winning this race!
Baby I'm gettin much closer
I just need permission so

[John Legend:]
Give me the greenlight...
Give me just one night.
I'm ready to go right now!
I'm ready to go right now
We can go all night
Give me the greenlight
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now

[Chorus]

[Andre 3000]
So I went hard
Like Medusa staring at me
I told her let's go
Let's blow this lane N.... factory
She said what kind of girl
Do you think that I are
The kind that you meet at a bar
You think you can get
What ever you want 'cause you some kind of star
No I'm a comet I just want you women
Hey if I were you
It would be me that I go home with, 3
The one and only
One thing you ain't considered
I heard you when you told your girl
"Oh, he can get it"
Admit it, you did it
Let's hop a cab and split it
I'm kidding we both going to where you living
I got you giggling like a pigglet
O that's the ticket
I hope you more like
Anita Baker than Robin Givens
No I don't know that lady so let me quit it
I'm just style-freeing, free-styling
Which is what I seldom do
This what I'm telling you
To the bed I'm nailing you
Like i been locked up for two years and they just lettin me loose

Give me the green light
Give me just one night
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now
[Andre 3000 sings during chorus:]
You got you one legend
Sometimes you gotta step from behind the piano
And let em know what's going on
Even stevie wonder got down sometimes
I'm ready to go

We could go all night
Give me the green light

[x4]
I'm ready to go right now
I'm ready to go right now

November 11: Music Month

Ms. Caillat is so upbeat and cheerful, I love all her music. And, how did she know that it was “always about me myself and I”? It is like she knows straight into my soul and all the details of my past and future relationships.

Watch the video and find a smile!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0oyglKjbFQ&feature=relmfu

I do
By: Colbie Caillat

It's always been about me myself and I
If all relationships were nothing but a waste of time
I never wanted to be anybody's other half
I was happy to say that our love wouldn't last
That was the only way I knew till I met you

You make we wanna say
I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Yeah, I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Cause every time before we spend like
Maybe yes and maybe no
I can live without it, I can let it go
Ooh, I did, I get myself into
You make we wanna say I do, I do, I do, I do, I do, I do,

Tell me is it only me
Do you feel the same?
You know me well enough to know that I'm not playing games
I promise I won't turn around and I won't let you down
You can trust and never feel it now
Baby there's nothing, there's nothing we can't get through

So can we say

I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Oh baby, I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Cause every time before we spend like
Maybe yes and maybe no
I won't live without it, I won't let it go
Wooh Can I get myself into
You make we wanna say

Me a family, a house a family
Ooh, can we be a family?
And when I'm old and sit next to you.

And when we remember when we said
I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Oh baby, I do, I do, I do, do do do do do do doo
Cause every time before we spend like
Maybe yes and maybe no
I won't live without it, I won't let it go
Just look at what we got ourselves into
You make we wanna say I do, I do, I do, I do, I do, I do,
Love you

November 10: Music Month

Mustang Sally
By: Wilson Pickett

Mustang Sally!
Guess you better slow your mustang down...
(oh lord...what i said now...)
Mustang Sally now baby....oh Lord...
Guess you better slow your mustang down...
(oh yeah)

You been running all over the town now...
OH!...Guess i'll have to put your flat feet on the ground....
(Ha!...what I said now...)

Listen:
All you wanna do is ride around Sally....
(Ride, Sally, Ride)
All you wanna do is ride around Sally...
(Ride, Sally, Ride)
All you wanna do is ride around Sally...
(Ride, Sally, Ride)
All you wanna do is ride around Sally...
(Ride, Sally, Ride)

Listen here....one of these lonely mornings,
OH!...gonna' be wiping your weeping eyes...(HUH!)

What i say now! Lookey here...

I bought you a brand-new mustang,
a 1965.
Now you come around, single, fine, woman...
and don't wanna let me ride...

Mustang Sally, now baby, oh lord,
Guess you better slow that mustang down....(Huh...oh Lord)
You been running all over town...OH!
Gotta put your flat feet on the ground...

What I said now...let me say it one more time.

Now all you wanna do is ride around Sally...
(Ride, Sally, Ride)
All you wanna do is ride around Sally...
(Ride, Sally, Ride)

November 9: Music Month

Hard to Handle
By: The Black Crows

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CE6bgj-hx4&ob=av2n

Baby here I am
I'm the man on the scene
I can give you what you want
But you gotta' come home with me

I have got some good old lovin'
And I got some more in store
When I get through throwin' it on you
You gotta' come back for more

Boys and things that come by the dozen
That ain't nothin' but drugstore lovin'
Hey little thing let me light your candle
'Cause mama I'm sure hard to handle, now
Gets around

Action speaks louder than words
And I'm a man of great experience
I know you've got another man
But I can love you better than him

Take my hand don't be afraid
I'm gonna prove every word I say
I'm advertising love for free
So you can place your ad with me

Boys come along a dime by the dozen
That ain't nothin' but ten cent lovin'
Hey little thing let me light your candle
'Cause mama I'm sure hard to handle, now
Gets around
Yeah
Hard to handle, now
Oh baby

Baby here I am
I'm the man on your scene
I can give you what you want
But you gotta' come home with me

I have got some good old lovin'
And I got some more in store
When I get through throwin' it on you
You gotta' come and back for more

Boys and things that come by the dozen
That ain't nothin' but drugstore lovin'
Hey little thing let me light your candle
'Cause mama I'm sure hard to handle, now
Gets around
Hard
Hard to handle now
Oh yeah, yeah, yeah

Boys come along a dime by the dozen
That ain't nothin' but ten cent lovin'
Hey little thing let me light your candle
'Cause mama I'm sure hard to handle, now
Gets around
Yeah
Oh Hard to handle now
Oh yeah

Baby, good lovin'
Baby, baby
Oh, oh good lovin'
I need good lovin'
I gotto handle yeah
Haa, yeah

November 8: Music Month

Eight minute mile?

Nine minute mile?

Maybe a ten minute mile more like me?

Either way, there is a pretty good website out there that you can enter your sport and pace and it will download a playlist of songs, in different genres, that suite your skill.

http://jogtunes.com/ Thanks jogtunes for introducing me to a new song.

Good Directions
By: Billy Currinton

I was sittin' there sellin' turnips on a flatbed truck
Munchin' on a pork rind when she pulled up
She had to be thinkin' "This is where Rednecks come from"
She had Hollywood written on her license plate
She was lost and lookin' for the interstate
Needin' directions and I was the man for the job

[Chorus]
I told her way up yonder past the caution light
There's a little country store with an old Coke sign
You gotta stop in and ask Miss Bell for some of her sweet tea
Then a left will take you to the interstate
But a right will bring you right back here to me

I was sittin' there thinkin' 'bout her pretty face
Kickin' myself for not catchin' her name
I threw my hat and thought, "You fool, that could've been love"
I knew my old Ford couldn't run her down
She probably didn't like me anyhow
So I watched her disappear in a cloud of dust.

[Chorus]
I told her way up yonder past the caution light
There's a little country store with an old Coke sign
You gotta stop in and ask Miss Bell for some of her sweet tea
Then a left will take you to the interstate
But a right will bring you right back here to me

Is this Georgia heat playin' tricks on me
Or am I really seein' what I think I see
The woman of my dreams comin' back to me

She went way up yonder past the caution light
Don't know why, but somethin' felt right
When she stopped in and asked Miss Bell for some of her sweet tea
Mama gave her a big 'ol glass and sent her right back here to me

Thank God for good directions and turnip greens

November 7: Music Month

The lyrics sound more romantic in Spanish than in English but, in short, we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. This song starts playing and I find myself day dreaming about dancing on the wooden floor at Azuka.

Check out this link for the English translation and the video.
http://lyricstranslate.com/en/yo-no-se-manana-i-dont-know-about-tomorrow.html

Yo No Se Manana
By: Luis Miguel

(Spanish translation)
yo no se si tu no se si yo seguiremos siendo como hoy
no se si después de amanecer vamos a sentir la misma sed
para que pensar y suponer, no preguntes cosas que no se
yoo no se…

no se donde vamos a parar, eso ya la piel nos lo dirá
para que jurar y prometer algo que no esta en nuestro poder
yo no se lo que es eterno no me pidas algo que es del tiempo

[coro:]
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
si estaremos juntos si se acaba el mundo
yo no se si soy para ti si serás para mi
si lleguemos amarnos o a odiarnos
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
quien va estar aquí

de un café pasamos al sofa, de un boton a todo lo demas
no pusimos reglas ni reloj, aquí estamos solos tu y yo
todo lo que ves es lo que soy, no me pidas mas de lo que doy
nooo..

[coro:]
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
si estaremos juntos si se acaba el mundo
yo no se si soy para ti si serás para mi
si lleguemos amarnos o a odiarnos
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
quien va estar aquí
esta vida es igual que un libro
cada pagina es un dia vivido
no tratemos de correr antes de andar
esta noche estamos vivos solo este momento es realidad
no no noo.. no se…

yo no se mañana
esta vida es una ruleta que gira sin parar
yo no se mañana
yo no se si tu yo no se si yo como sera el final
yo no se mañana
puede ser peor o puede ser mejor
yo no se mañana
deja que el corazon decida vida mia lo que sentimos
mañana

yo no se
yo no se, yo no se mañana
ahora lo que vivimos es algo realmente lindo
quien puede saber lo que pasara, mañana no hay nada escrito
yo no se, yo no se mañana
estamos solos tu y yo y los momentos hay que vivirlos
hay que vivirlos...
yo no se, yo no se
yo no se, yo no se

[coro:]
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
si estaremos juntos si se acaba el mundo
yo no se si soy para ti si serás para mi
si lleguemos amarnos o a odiarnos
yo no se mañana, yo no se mañana
quien va estar aquí

November 4: Music Month

“Only Girl” has a great beat to work out to and get my feet get moving every time the tune plays. But, it is the chorus that I relate to. I will not be the “sancha” (Close female friend; the wife you knew before your wife; in some cases, the sexy friend who is forbidden) and will only settle for being the only girl.

Only girl (in the world)
By: Rihanna

La la la la
La la la la
La la la la

[VERSE 1]
I want you to love me, like I'm a hot guy
Keep thinkin' of me, doin' what you like
So boy forget about the world cuz it's gon' be me and you tonight
I wanna make your bed for ya, then imma make you swallow your pride

[CHORUS]
Want you to make me feel like I'm the only girl in the world
Like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
Like I'm the only one who knows your heart
Only girl in the world...
Like I'm the only one that's in command
Cuz I'm the only one who understands how to make you feel like a man
Want you to make me feel like I'm the only girl in the world
Like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
Like I'm the only one who knows your heart
Only one...

[VERSE 2]
Want you to take me like a thief in the night
Hold me like a pillow, make me feel right
Baby I'll tell you all my secrets that I'm keepin', you can come inside
And when you enter, you ain't leavin', be my prisoner for the night

[CHORUS]
Want you to make me feel like I'm the only girl in the world
Like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
Like I'm the only one who knows your heart
Only girl in the world...
Like I'm the only one that's in command
Cuz I'm the only one who understands, like I'm the only one who knows your heart, only one...

[BRIDGE]
Take me for a ride
Oh baby, take me high
Let me make you first
Oh make it last all night
Take me for a ride
Oh baby, take me high
Let me make you first
Make it last all night

[CHORUS]
Want you to make me feel like I'm the only girl in the world
Like I'm the only one that you'll ever love
Like I'm the only one who knows your heart
Only girl in the world...
Like I'm the only one that's in command
Cuz I'm the only one who understands how to make you feel like a man
Only girl in the world...
Girl in the world...
Only girl in the world...
Girl in the world...

November 3: Music Month

The satire in this song is hilarious. Something tells me he is not really talking about fishing.

Fish
By: Craig Campbell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_Am8bSYIms&feature=related

The first time we did it I was scared to death
She snuck out in that cotton dress
Jumped on in and we drove to the lake
Put her hand on my knee and said I can't wait
I had everything we needed in the bed of my truck
Turns out my baby loves to...

[Chorus:]
Fish, she wants to do it all the time
Early in the morning, in the middle of the night
She's hooked and now she can't get enough
Man, that girl sure loves to fish

After that that's all she wanted to do
But that was okay 'cause I did too
She always wants to go down by the dam
And I love how she looks with that rod in her hand
If they ain't bitin' she don't give up
Turns out my baby loves to...
[ Lyrics from: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/c/craig_campbell/fish.html ]
[Chorus:]
Fish, she wants to do it all the time
Early in the morning, in the middle of the night
She's hooked and now she can't get enough
Man, that girl sure loves to fish

I love to see her silhouette reflectin' off the water
With her hooks and her sinkers and her pretty pink bobbers
The first time I saw her I knew I was in love
'Cause I found a girl who loves to...

Fish, I love to see her lyin'
There on the bank 'neath the full moon light
Man, I can't even believe my luck
I found a girl who loves to...

[Chorus:]
Fish, she wants to do it all the time
Early in the morning, in the middle of the night
She's hooked and now she can't get enough
Man, that girl sure loves to fish
Yeah, I know she loves to fish
Psst, you awake, let's fish

November 2: Music Month

The first three lines of this song get me humming and head swaying. This song makes me ponder: What things have I not done yet? How many miles would you go to get to my Love? How many different places can I go to see a sunset? What have I NOT seen yet?

Many the miles
By: Sara Bareilles

There's too many things that I haven't done yet
Too many sunsets
I haven't seen
You can't waste the day wishing it'd slow down
You would've thought by now
I'd have learned something

I made up my mind when I was a young girl
I've been given this one world
I won't worry it away
But now and again I lose sight of the good life
I get stuck in a low light
But then Love comes in

How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
But send me the miles and I'll be happy to follow you Love

I do what I can wherever I end up
To keep giving my good love
And spreading it around
Cause I've had my fair share of take care and goodbyes
I've learned how to cry
And I'm better for that

Sing how far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Send me the miles and I'll be happy to
Follow you Love

Red letter day and I'm in a blue mood
Wishing that blue would just carry me away
I've been talking to God don't know
If it's helping or not
But surely something has got to got to got to give
Cause I can't keep waiting to live

How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
But send me the miles and I'll be happy to yeah
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
Been talking to God don't know if it's helping or not
Many the miles
Many the miles
How far do I have to go to get to you
Many the miles
Many the miles
Oh send me the miles and I'll be happy to
Follow you Love

There's too many things I haven't done yet
Too many sunsets I haven't seen

November 1: Music Month

Music is my life. While riding, driving, running, working, or walking, I am listening to music. The floor is my dance floor and I cannot help but dance. Dancing and music has been a part of my life since I was five years old. I listen to the lyrics to remember the place and moment where I heard the song. Many times I can relate to the lyrics and it takes me back to an emotion. November is going to be music month. I will take you through a time via a featured song from my MP3 music list. Sit back and turn it up.

Oh, how apropos of being in love, young and naive. We came to life with the excitement of sharing our worlds. We were like teenagers believing that our love was real. A glance, a touch, or a phone call would send butterflies in my stomach. Together, we completed the puzzle of what our lives were missing. No longer teenagers but forever young in our hearts and forever in love. Today, I hope you will remember your first love.

Teenage Dream
By: Katy Perry

You think I'm pretty
Without any makeup on
You think I'm funny
When I tell the punchline wrong
I know you get me
So I let my walls come down, down

Before you met me
I was alright but things
Were kinda heavy
You brought me to life
Now every February
You'll be my Valentine, Valentine

Let's go all the way tonight
No regrets, just love
We can dance, until we die
You and I, will be young forever

[Chorus]
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

We drove to Cali
And got drunk on the beach
Got a motel and
Built a fort out of sheets
I finally found you
My missing puzzle piece
I'm complete

Let's go all the way tonight
No regrets, just love
We can dance, until we die
You and I, will be young forever

[Chorus]
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

I'mma get your heart racing
In my skin tights jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
Let you put your hands on me
In my skin tight jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight

[Chorus]
Yoooouuu
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back
No

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

I'mma get your heart racing
In my skin tights jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
Let you put your hands on me
In my skin tight jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
(Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight)

LivingStrong

It has been said that the first year is the hardest. One year later, I can agree with that statement. I never would have imagined life without Mom and even now, my life feels like it is missing her. The dinner table is missing a table setting and there is an empty spot in pictures where she used to sit.

The holidays were horrifically sad, but we survived. My birthday, her birthday, and my parent’s anniversary was tearful, but life goes on. I am not sure how, but somehow it does. There is a moment when time changes. One day I miss her, one day I think I can do life without her, and other days when I sit and cry.

Mother’s day, I broke down. I sat on an airplane and balled my eyes out. I hear my friends say they are going to lunch with their mom, and I get sad. I wish I had Mom to go to lunch with. I hear my friends call their mom, and I get jealousy. I wish I had Mom to call.

Mom was a model of will power and instilled in me the determination to achieving anything my heart desires. She showed me how to give freely and love everyone. Because of her, I rode my bike across America. I know she is up in heaven watching over me and guiding all my moves.

A year has gone by and I miss Mom. When I close my eyes, I try to remember her as the healthy vibrant lady that would hug me tight. Her unconditional love and constant encouragement turned me into the person I am today. She makes me want to liveSTRONG everyday.

The Hat

One margarita

Two margarita

Three margarita

Four...

Is the hat wearing me or am I wearing the hat?

No Monkey Business

Ol’ Herm, I don’t know how he does it. After three marriages he still says he wants two more, a wild one and one to settle down with. He will tell you he lost half of everything three times, plus two homes, and yet he still wants to do it again.

One divorce, three months of e-harmony dating, and a FB break-up is enough for me. You know what a FaceBook break up is, right? It is when you wake up one day and your status has been changed to "single" and you have been deleted as a friend. I thought I had been through enough electronic break-ups but this one had to top the list.

There is no monkey business with my heart and I want to win at the game of love. Knowing full and well that it will do me no good to bench myself and add my name to the injured reserve list, I am gathering my shattered heart in hopes that I will mend in time for the start of the season.

Not Funny

There was a time where I wanted to write about love. You know, give you some insight to my love life in hopes that Barbie and her Bike would find love, get married, have a baby, and live happily ever after.

In truth, the story goes something like this.

I was in love and then ended up with heart broken.
Then I was in love... and then alone.
Repeat.
It seems like this has happened a few too many times. All the stories are basically the same.

I wanted to put a funny spin on the people I dated, how I meet them, and even the break-ups. But, I just ain't funny anymore. And, you know what else? Love hurts.

You might tell me that if you fall you get back up. Normally, I would tell myself that too. This time, I didn't just fall and break my handle bars. This time my frame is cracked, my wheels are bent, my spokes and gears are broken. My physical injuries are worse and my heart needs some physical therapy.

The rainbow connecting the two islands reminds me of two hearts connecting. I can see it out there but it is not in my reach. Maybe there is love above me but I haven't reached out to grab the pot of gold. Oh, I don't know what the H-E-double hockey sticks I am blogging about. The sea is full of sharks. There is no happy ending in this entry.

Sweet Sixteen

That cute silver tooth girl, my niece Alexis, turn sixteen today.



These days she is a spunky, vibrant, and out spoken teenager with purple hair. The only relief I get from that statement is that the purple washes out. None the less, I love her just the same.



Lexi is living with her father in Abilene, Texas and I miss her terribly. She is very affectionate and always greets me with a big hug.



Happy Birthday wishes to you- Alexis Nichole Buckley. Remember to live happy and continue to explore all of life’s opportunities. Don’t stop playing your guitar and singing to the world.

Conquer the Coast, 2011

The anticipation of a bike ride always gets to me. There is a mental checklist I have to ensure I have my gear, nutrition, and my bike is in order. I rode my bike to the start line and enjoyed watching one rider being helicoptered to the start of the ride- talk about a grand entrance.



We started with crossing the harbor bridge and catching a spectacular view of the sunrise. It is mornings like this that make me want to start each day with riding my bike into the sunrise. It is morning likes this that make me want to be on tour, forget life, forget work and ride my bike everywhere.

Conquer the coast has an eighteen mile stretch that is labeled “the hardest time trial you can find in Texas”. The head wind hits you straight on when you turn off the ferry and head down Mustang Island on chip-and-seal asphalt. It is brutal. Once you take another turn over JFK bridge, the wind turns in your favor.

This is one of my favorite rides of the year. It is flat and if the weather is perfect, the wind is behind you. I had no two hundred and sixty pound anchor slowing me down and I am quite pleased with my finishing time. Another finisher medal and another 70 miles on my mile log keeps Barbie and her bike happy.

Hail Mary

It is a daily adventure to commute to work. There is always emotional excitement plus the physical workout with the nine mile commute in and the eleven mile commute home.

My favorite experience was when a dear friend blew me kisses out her car window and said have a good day, love. I have had flirty and scary hello’s; friendly beep, beeps; angry honk, honks; and the not so nice cut off and a flick of the middle finger.

There was the flat tire on the bike and the eighteen wheeler that had a blow out two lanes away from me; the getting stuck in the middle of a busy four lane road with heavy traffic trying to cross the final two lanes; and there was the balancing act of uneven pavement, do I ride into the curve or swing into the car coming up next to me.

Oh and then there is crossing Huebner road. For this route, I always say a Hail Mary and pray that the Stop Light gods will be generous. It is not ideal, but passing a red light and crossing four lanes of traffic before the rush is better than weaving through speeding cars.

This is my fourth year of commuting to work and I absolutely love it. I get excited about getting to work, I get excited about being at work and thrilled when I finally leave work to go outside and play. It is like I have not grown up and I still ride my bike everywhere I go. I dread the weather change and when it will be too cold for this Texas girl to brave the chill.

Fly Away

She buzzed her way around the table and she could have landed anywhere. The water glass or fork would have been better place than the syrup bowl. The syrup stuck to her wings and she could not fly her way out.

For a moment I contemplated what to do. Too much pressure might hurt her. Gently, the knife was used to lift her up and place her on the banister. She began to drag her body on the wood leaving a pile of syrup in her path. She licked her body and fluttered her wings in an effort to remove the syrup. Hopefully, she would be light enough to fly again.

This poor little fly was covered in syrup and put herself into a sticky situation. I could relate for I have put myself in a similar situation many a time. You fall down; you lick yourself off, and then get back up again.

As much as I wanted to stay until she lifted away, I believe all stories should have a happy ending. Little Miss Fly cleaned off her wings and flew off into Paradise.

Eastern Shore 2011

I am drooling and lost in a daze as I dream about riding from Main to Florida. One day, one year, maybe it will be possible. Every day I ask myself if I should or shouldn’t read the blogs and let the jealousy build up. The answer is different every day. Either way, here is a list of some blog links so I may reference at a later time. Also to help with keeping the blog roll down.

Eastern Shore 2011 Blogs
http://whereislance.com/index.php?id=7
http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/directory/?o=RrzKj&user=TouringbyBike&v=Eq
http://crosscountryrider.blogspot.com/

XC Blogs
http://www.rideforkidssake.com/
http://myassisred.blogspot.com/
http://3415milesonabike.blogspot.com/
http://web.me.com/yoviny/My_ass_is_red/Blog/Blog.html
http://tybikes.blogspot.com/
http://gaiasmysticalcorner.blogspot.com/

Karma

You know what they say about karma- it’s a bitch. Today, I know what it feels like. All those bad things I have done in my past have come back to haunt me. I guess it is just life. That is all I can attribute it to.

It does not matter that NOW my intentions are good or that I want to make things right. I have done my best to live honestly, be nice, and do the right thing. Not just at work but in my personal life.

Today, I feel like my best intentions have failed me. As the years change and I learn from my mistakes, I hope that this lesson remains. Honesty is the best policy.

Commuting to Work

It has been five weeks and I surprise myself that I keep up the three times a week routine. Wake up at 5AM, ride to work 9 miles, ride home 11 miles and then to sleep early with a belly full of strawberry milk.

In July, I attended a bicycle safety class. After nine years of riding I felt like I needed to be more comfortable and confident on the road even when my commuting friends were unable to ride. Now, it’s so natural to commute and has become second nature.

Mondays, I drive in and leave my clothes and food for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday, I drive back in and take home my things. My helmet, gloves, and sunglasses are piled in my back seat. Cycling shorts and bike jersey fill my closet. Tan lines expose my favorite hobby, but I would not have it any other way.

On-line Dating, Part II

It has been four months and the on-line dating account is still active. Needless to say, the experience has been not so harmonious. I have definitely had flops and my share of mistakes. To include not taking the time to type a decent e-mail response and getting two guys confused.

The most difficult task for me has been to filter out people I would start communicating with and those that I choose to archive and close. I have been matched up with approximately 300 available bachelors from Texas to Oklahoma and Louisiana.

At first, I went with the shot gun approach. I went out with anyone and everyone that asked and went anywhere from coffee to fine dining. By doing this, I have definitely learned what I do not like and definitely need.

My advice to anyone starting an on-line dating profile is to be honest. Post recent pictures and be true to your height. For example, if you are bald do not post only pictures wearing a hat. And really, I don’t care about how big that fish was you caught on your last fishing trip and it makes no different to me about how many points your last hunting trip brought you. Group pictures aren’t a good display either because there is no way to know which person you are, and pictures with other ladies are not a good idea because of the obvious- you are looking for a new one.

Chemistry, magic, and love are not factored into the picture until you meet in person. For me, I know right away if I like you. My account will expire at the end of this month and I may still be looking for Mr. Right. Overall, I have learned to be open minded and always be willing to meet someone new. I have learned to stay true to me and above all to never give up on love.

Thoughts on XC

As I prepared for the completion of riding my bike across America, I expected an enlightening moment or great epiphany. I reflect back over the past three years and I have discovered the same Barbie, the same person, only with a new perspective on life.

In 2009, I rode the Mojave Desert and into Mingus Mountain. I recall feeling my first experience of extreme exhaustion and feeling doubtful on my ability to continue. It was during the 900 miles over 12 day tour that I looked into my soul and let myself heal.

The day is crystal clear in my mind. I was sitting with two friends and it occurred to me that I was hurt from my divorce. I sat and cried not expecting or even knowing that the pain existed. That year, I left my pain and hurt on the road and received much needed healing.

Last year in 2010, I rode 1400 miles over 21 days and I returned to self. All the clouds of doubt were lifted and I realized that I did not need a fan club or a cheerleader to get me through the hard times. Everything that I wanted to accomplish was inside me. It was my determination, my dream, and a desire inside my heart that would get me through.

This year, I rode 18 days and 1200 miles, enough time to ponder life’s ups and downs. As in life, you ride the road that is ahead of you. If the road stops, you figure out a way to go through it, across it, or over it. If you have a bad weather, be it wind, rain, or cold, you dress appropriately and roll forward. It really is that simple.

Cross country will be in and on my heart forever.

Harry

This entry is for Hottie. It is special for him because it wasn’t until the day after the ride, that I realized how amazing he is.

Sometime between last year’s ride and this year’s ride, he found out that most of my riding time in 2010 was alone. Hottie had already completed the ride across America in 2009 and came back to ride with me in 2011 for the sole purpose of riding with me.

He flew from Liverpool to Champagne, rode with me 1200 miles, flew back home, and then in eight days, will fly back to California to ride the Death Ride for the second time. (Death Ride = 129 miles, 15,000 feet elevation, over 5 mountain peaks.)

He could have chosen to ride at a faster pace. He could have chosen to be the first person in each day but, he chose to ride with the turtle and be the last one in each day. When we were out on the road he slowed down and was never more than a foot away from me.

Sure, he might have stayed close to me because I had a cue sheet but he also could have ridden with the front of the group to get the same directions. I wasn’t always the best navigator and we were lost twice. My temper was short and it is now that I look back and regret that I gave him the silent treatment.

The day would start with a wakeup call. We would be on the road all day and then share our meal times together. After that, we would do laundry or hang out.

I didn’t always understand what he was saying. Would we go back and forth with, “what did you say” and “I don’t understand”, and “say it one more time”. I could figure out what he was saying when he was looking straight at me, but because of the bikes, that didn’t happen too often. He doesn’t show too much emotion and would walk away from my tears but that never meant that he didn’t care.

The night of the banquet, we sat by the lobby fireplace and shared some stories. He told me about how he values his family business and how he would take the shirt off his back to help his friends. It took me 18 days to figure out what a giving and caring person Hottie is and that he was doing what he does best- helping out a friend.

CR Friends

CrossRoad friends are lifers. These are the kind of friends that once you meet you will remain friends forever. There is a bond that unites us and keeps us glued together with each pedal and every mile.

It has been said that two hundred people a year attempt to ride their bike across America, supported and unsupported. We are a small number but our determination and will power is enormous.

Our stories are all different. We come from different parts of the world, from different cultures, and varied ages. We are untied because we have the same dream and desire- to ride a bike across America.

CrossRoads 2009:
Standing on the beach in May 2009, I did not know I would be so close to these people standing with me. My XC09 family is dear to my heart because I started this journey with them. It still surprises me the support I receive from them, even to this day.


CrossRoads 2010:
Although I am not in this picture, I feel so much a part of this group. This was the longest tour of 21 days and close to 1400 miles.

CrossRoads 2011:
These riders welcomed me as a rider from Champaign to Boston. This group is outgoing and lively and I felt right at home from day one.


With every mile we return to self and turn into kids again. We play out on the roads riding our bikes. We share stories, laughter and tears. It is never good bye but only I will see you again, soon.

My Family

My family makes me, me. They are how I am and what I am about. I cherish each of them and feel so blessed that they would welcome me into Boston. It was a cold and rainy day and yet they stood there with open arms to welcome me. My father was the first one I hugged. It’s a time I will never forget. Its been fun reuniting with them and spending time with them. These pictures capture my family with their "Barbie and her bike... to Boston" t-shirts.



Lydia (Dad's girlfriend) and Popo.


My 86 year old maternal grandfather.


Wendy, Michael's girlfriend.

DAY 18: Sat June 25

We made it to Boston! It’s a departure day and the tour has officially ended. Since my family is here we will spend and extra day exploring downtown Boston and return to San Antonio on Sunday.

There are no miles to report, no time on bike, or even calories burned. I have to remember to pay for my meals and not walk out of a restaurant without paying. Breakfast was lonely this morning without the CR group to talk about the cycling day. I have to return to normal life and leave tour life as a wonderful memory.

Tour life is so different from real life. The only responsibility is getting on your bike and riding to the next hotel. Once you get to the hotel, its laundry, eat, and rest. That’s it. I know I will have trouble riding and driving in a car again. I get overwhelmed with wardrobe decisions when I have the option of more than three t-shirts and more than two pair of shorts. Not to mention on tour, I have only my cycling cleats and sandals. At home there are too many choices. Tour life makes things simple and easy.

Every morning, I call Hottie for his wake up call. Today, was the last morning I called him and I realized how much I am going to miss him. He has been my company for 1200 miles and distracted me when I did not want to ride. He is a true CrossRoads companion that will never let me ride alone.



There is still more to blog. But, for now…

DAY 17: Fri June 24

Today was the final ride to Boston, Massachusetts and we dipped our front wheel into the Atlantic Ocean. Remember, the back wheel was dipped in the Pacific. The journey is complete.



Total miles: 19.04
Time on bike: 2:10
Total calories: 955
Total elevation: 584

There is so much I want to blog about and I am filled with so much emotion that I don’t know where to begin. That moment when I knew the beach was within my viewing range was magnificent. To top it off, my family was standing on the corner to welcome me. Mom rode with me in spirit and I know she was with me with every pedal stroke.

This post will be short so I can clean my bike, clean me, and take in the moment.

DAY 16: Thurs June 23

The ride was 91 miles into Burlington, Massachusetts. We crossed our Fourteenth and fifteenth State Line Crossing. Because my family was arriving today, I cut the ride short to meet them. Not to mention, it was raining and pouring.



Total miles: 61.48
Time on bike: 6:41
Total calories: 3978
Total elevation: 3078

Today, I was riding in the clouds. Literally, I was in the clouds and it was glorious. We had some pretty hard climbs but it was all worth it.



My family is here this evening and we have a group dinner this evening. It’s a big day tomorrow. We will ride our final 20 miles to the beach. Close, yet so far away.

DAY 15: Wed June 22

We rode into Brattleboro, Vermont, 76 miles. It is the Twelfth State Line Crossing, in Vermont’s Green Mountains. The scenery is amazingly beautiful. Total elvation gain for the day is 6200 feet.



Total miles: 35.12
Time on bike: 3:54
Total calories: 1873
Total elevation: 1686

Somewhere about 20 miles into the ride, it started to rain. Then about 30 miles into the ride, it started to pour. The goal was to get to the Vermont state sign for the ceremonial picture. I got the picture but now I can’t get my camera to work. My phone and camera are soaked and I am unable to retrieve pictures off the media card. Maybe when I get home, I will be able to download. Hopefully, my equipment is salvageable. Yes, I did the plastic bag trick but the bag didn’t close right and an inch of water was in the bag with the camera and phone.

Once I reached an appropriate and safe spot, I call the SAG. My shoes were filled with water and nothing on me was dry. The decants on slippery wet roads were more that I wanted to bear today. Boston is too close and I didn’t want to risk injury to me or my bike.

On the up side, its 3PM as I type this. I am finally warm, laundry done with plenty of time for a nap before party this evening. (Dave and Adriane are having cheese and crackers in the lobby for us. That is about as fancy as we get here on the road.)

Oh, and a special happy birthday to my wonderful big sister. Angela, I love you dearly!

DAY 14: Tues June 21

69 miles to Albany, NY but we got lost again and ended up with 80 miles.



Total miles: 80.42
Time on bike: 7:22
Total calories: 3721
Total elevation: 2123

Today’s post is going to be real short. I am exhausted from riding all day and only have 45 minutes until route rap and dinner. Something tells me I will be in bed early and up early again tomorrow for a long day of climbing.

We passed by some early settlement cabins and the beginning of the route. It was cool to be in a place where others were so long ago. There are great, green, scenic views.

We passed the Mohawk region.
We rode through Schenectady and I was afraid to stop at the stop lights.
The owner of a corner store gave us free drinks, since we rode so far.

We ended up on a 5 lane road with rude New York drivers. (Is there any other kind of New York driver?) The traffic and being lost wore on me.

Oh, and I had 80 views on my blog yesterday. That made me smile so big! Now, you must become a “follower” so I know who I actually stopping by.

DAY 13: Mon June 20

Hottie offered to moon me if I needed material for my blog. That being said, I have looked into my bag for something to entertain you.



The route is 78 mile to Little Falls, New York, however my left/right skills did not work well today and we took the scenic route. We were off route when I wanted to tell Hottie, “get off the F’ing phone and help me figure out where we are!” I didn’t because I knew full well he didn’t have a clue. The pressure of keeping us on course gets to me. Knowing I can call SAG at any time is comforting and they are quick to get us back on the path.

Total miles: 83.94
Time on bike: 7:39
Total calories: 3439
Total elevation: 1656

Good news today… Tracy has something special for me. It’s not the big map but its something. It put me back in my happy bubble. That along with good knees and good gears makes Barbie real happy.

The SAG divas, Paula and Debbie were moonlighting being match makers. In Erie, Frank joined the group and they were secretly organizing his room across the hall from mine. Everyone in the CR group was aware of their intensions and started whispering when Frank and I had a chocolate milk date. Sadly, the divas left the tour early and Frank left with them.

Today, we rode by a church that looks like a castle and the smallest church. It sits two people and you have to take a boad to get to it.

DAY 12: Sun June 19

We rode 68 miles to Syracuse, New York, the home of the women’s right hall of fame and the birthplace of Memorial Day. We passed by the Erie Canal Park and it was very scenic. As my ole friend Herman Floyd would say, “It don’t get any better than this.”

Total miles: 70.22
Time on bike: 6:19
Total calories: 3204
Total elevation: 2454



My knees are holding up. I am convinced it’s my gears and I keep pounding the pedals. I am not used to the terrain and climbing so I keep grinding it out more than I should.

68 miles and 6 hours on the bike and I am trying to forget about the map incident. I am still sore about the map. I know, I know, I keep telling myself, “Let it go”. I remind myself that I have a map and a black marker at home and I can make my own map. Hopefully, I will get over it by Boston.



When we arrived at the hotel, we were greeted with “Welcome Crossroads Cyclst” on our door. There is not much going on other than riding, eating, and some much needed laundry that needs to be done.

DAY 11: Sat June 18

We rode 94 miles to Canandaigua, New York. We crossed the 3000 mile mark across America. It took three years but I am finally doing it- I am riding my bike to Boston. My knees hurt from grinding out the hills but overall I am doing well.



Total miles: 96.4
Time on bike: 7:15
Total calories: 4589
Total elevation: 3354

At about 60 miles into the ride, the road stopped. The rode just ended. Did I pay for this little adventure and hike in the middle of a bike ride? When I saw what we had to climb down I stopped and stared thinking there was no way I was getting across. Right when I think I can’t do something, I dig deep and something inside me finds and way.



Notice the jersey? Today, Hottie and I rode our Texas jerseys. Don't mess with Texas!

My happy bubble was busted today when Tracy told me I would NOT get the map. I must have been putting too much weight on this trophy symbol because I took the news really hard. (I will stop typing now because I don’t want to post something that I will regret later.)

DAY 10: Fri June 17

We rode 78 miles to Hamburg, New York. We crossed our eleventh state line crossing into New York. It was a great day to ride with overcast clouds and a 6 mph west ward wind. Lake Erie was on our left side and vineyards lined the road to the right. Talk about an awesome riding day.



Total miles: 80.65
Time on bike: 5:43
Total calories: 3990
Total elevation: 1838

Today I opted to leave the shuffle in my bag and talk to Hottie. I think we are getting on the others nerves. He still says I am like a wife, bossing him around, taking his wallet, and not having sex. Our conversations are like this and they go on all day.

Harry: Do you want to stop for coffee?
Me: No, I am good.
Harry: What does that mean?
Me: No, I don’t want coffee. Do you want coffee?
Harry: Let’s move on.
Me: Do you want to stop? This maybe the last place to stop for the next 20 miles. Why did you ask me to stop if you didn’t want to stop?
Harry: (eye roll) Is my seat loose? Would you call the SAG so I could use their tools?

I have not added up the total miles to date but I know it’s a bunch. My days are running together and I am not sure what date it is. I do know I will be in Boston in one week. Just a week more of riding and I am trying to savor each mile. The right combination of ice and meds is making the days much more enjoyable and I feel better. I am in the grove and getting up to pace with the rest of the group.

As I ride, I am still waiting for an epiphany. All the while, I am considering getting this blog and turning it into a book. It is just a thought but something I am thinking a lot about.

The routine of tour is kicking in. Sleep, eat, ride. Eat some more, ride some more, eat some more, and then sleep again. I ate a 1500 calorie burger the other night at dinner, not including the salad, fries, and milkshake. Every day there is strawberry milk or a vanilla shake used as a recovery drink. Every night it is a different hotel and a different room number. If my card doesn’t work, then I know I am in the wrong hotel and possible at the wrong room.

Mom is always on my mind but not in a sad way. She is with me in spirit and I can feel her guiding me. I am in such a happy place knowing she was my best friend and confidant. I am lucky to have had wonderful conversations with Mom, which made it easy to get the cycle of life flowing in full circle.

DAY 9: Thurs June 16

It is a REST DAY!!!



We are in Erie, Pennsylvania and it is a much needed rest day. Today is all about massage, chiropractor, and sleep. The chiropractor I used is: http://www.krauzachiro.com/ and a masseur is located in his office as well. I may or may not see the sights as rest is a priority. My laundry is all clean and I will lighten my luggage and mail some unused cycling gear home.

I am enjoying all the comments and posts either here and on FB. Sorry that I don’t always get to respond back but know that I am reading them.

DAY 8: Wed June 15

We rode 89 miles to Erie, Pennsylvania and the tenth state line crossing.

Total miles: 89.7
Time on bike: 7:12
Total calories: 4370
Total elevation: 1765

Wow! We crossed into Pennsylvania and it is starting to feel more real. The day was gorgeous, a perfect riding day for riding. My knee is almost back normal size. I feel like I am finally catching up to the group and enjoying the dirty jokes at the SAG stops.

Today I made PB&J for Hottie and me. He said they looked horrible. Personally, I thought he would be more grateful since I carried them in my jacket all morning. We enjoyed our picnic on the side of the road and he took a five minute siesta.

There were lots of Amish. I spotted 3 buggies, a horse drawn tracker, and a barn full of school kids. The simplistic way of life is refreshing.

The highlight was a stop at a root beer stand. I had a burger and vanilla shake. George Bush (Not the ex-president. His blog is “Ride with George”) and I shared a dance to my song, “Barbara Ann”.

Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers. Tomorrow is a rest day and I anticipate being back to my old self in no time.