Go vote - Then read this !

If you haven't voted yet, stop reading right now. Seriously. It'll be here when you get back. Step away from the mouse and take your coffee with you, just GO VOTE. The last few years of apathy or ignorance (either way)have taken this country down a bad road ... If you don't vote your conscience today, you have officially given up your right to bitch, whine, complain or lament what happens over the next four years. This is YOUR country ... for crying out loud, have a little pride and VOTE.

After a quick spin on the rollers this morning, I waited in line for about 45mins to vote before work and lamented that I didn't think to bring caffeine. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits, despite the wait, but there was a general feeling that something big is going to happen, whatever the outcome. History is already made and will continue to be made whether we elect an african-american president, a female vp or the oldest man ever elected to the first term. This is our opportunity to right the ship, to get back on track, to regain our footing - whatever cliche you want to use. All that really matters today is that YOU - yes, you - go vote.

Okay, enough with my public service message. Now that you've voted, we can discuss other, less important but sometimes more entertaining subjects.

The ladies of CycleLife (sans Sara and Mel) took off this weekend to Raw Talent Ranch - most of our racing community has been there but for those who haven't, it's a fabulous spot in W Va owned by D20 stalwart, Jay Moglia. Awesome destination for training, escaping the rat-race or just taking a weekend away to hang out. The roads were just as good as I remembered and the fall foliage was out in force. Jay and Audrey took great care of us, leaving some goodies for our arrival, coming over to hold a bonfire one night and treating us to some live entertainment while we were there.

Michelle's Bday was Friday, so we celebrated with a gorilla and a bank robber: an odd pairing, but it seems to work for them.

Jason's bday was Saturday so we celebrated with a bonfire







and s'mores-









afterward, we rolled around on the floor for good measure.



As Paul observed: the ultimate bike-geek gathering. Thank you for understanding.












The area around the Barn is so serene - I took a long walk on Saturday evening, just enjoying the views and the silence of nature. It was breathtaking, absolutely what the doctor ordered given the hectic few weeks I've been having. Its funny - after a weekend of resetting your mind and spirit, coming back to the political rhetoric is comical. Politics are so out of touch with what's important, especially in the last minute election frenzy.

Many of you know this past year or so has been a tough one for me for various reasons. This weekend at RTR reminded me of the more important lessons I've learned in the recent past:

* Enjoy the good things in life for what they are

* When you ask someone how they are, actually listen to the answer

* Take the time to get to know people - whether they become friends or more, or you never see them again, it's a gift you've been given

* Tell your friends and loved ones how much you appreciate them on a regular basis

* Turn off the ipod or the tv - enjoy silence sometimes to let your mind go where it wants to.

* The past is gone and the future is yet to come - live in the "now" and enjoy it !

Yes, I'm aware that I'm feeling a bit profound right now. Humor me.

Thanks to the boys and girls that made this past weekend's trip an adventure - a good time was had by all, some new friends were made and some mountains were conquered... what more could we ask for ?