Pig Skull On Thames

One Way

2009-11-10T21:55:00.000-05:00

The monks at St. Meinrad's Archabbey rest in peace because of His promise.

The Narrow Gate

2009-11-10T21:49:00.003-05:00

The monks at St. Meinrad's Archabbey remind us of the importance of leading holy and virtuous lives.

Watching Over His Sheep

2009-11-10T21:41:00.004-05:00

Death is not the end but only the beginning. The Benedictine monks at St. Meinrad's Archabbey are a quiet witness of this promise

Autumn Falls, Scott County, KY, Part 5

2009-11-08T21:38:00.004-05:00

I bike Scott County roads I've never before biked--Mt. Gilead, Finnel, Barkley, Bailey, Morris Bridge, Gunnell and Hinton Cemetery. Make some doggie friends on Davis Turkey Foot Road near Burgess Smith (see, I don't pepper spray EVERY dog). Develop a slow leak in my front tire near the end of the ride due to a tiny piece of glass. I need to invest in some Kevlar flat-proof tires. This high resolution pic is taken at the Mt. Gilead Methodist Church on Mt. Gilead Road near Finnel Road. I've got my camera set for both low and high resolution pics. Normally, I use low resolution for email and blog work and high resolution for pics I want to print and enlarge. Left click the pic for a big view of the church and sign.

Autumn Falls, Scott County, KY, Part 4

2009-10-27T20:51:00.004-04:00

The Luke Road waterfall is so peaceful this early Sunday morn ride before work. Although, I am forced to pepper spray a dog a few minutes before getting to this meandering paradise.

Brrrr! The water is cold. I take off my biking shoes and walk to the other side for a pic of my bike up against the waterfall.

Does the shot work? Or is it all wet? Did I mention that the water is cold?

Autumn Falls, Scott County, KY, Part 3

2009-10-26T19:35:00.004-04:00

I see many beautiful fall colors during my ride before work this early Wednesday morn, Oct. 21. Here at Corinth Christian Church at Skinnersburg and Glass roads I snuggle my face and camera into a groundcover of reds and yellows to take a pic of a glorious King of the Road.

I revisit this abandoned Rogers Gap Road home near the railroad tracks before work this early Sunday morn, Oct. 25. This home intrigues me. I can't help it. Maybe it's the 10 AM lighting.

Experimental shot of the waterfalls along Luke Road. It's my attempt to "sheet" (careful now) the flowing water by keeping the shutter open a long time and using a small aperture. Weird, huh? I think I need to play with the ISO. Oh, well...back to the drawing board.

Autumn Falls Along Luke Road, Scott County, KY, Part 2

2009-10-20T18:26:00.004-04:00

Here are more pics of the waterfall along Luke Road. I wonder what kind of fish live in these waters? Smallmouth bass maybe? When I was a boy I would catch Smallmouth in north central Michigan's Muskegon River. My maternal grandparents had a cabin on 40 acres of heavily-wooded land along the river. I would catch bass, northern pike, perch and sucker; my grandfather would clean 'em and my grandmother would fry 'em. What a feast! What memories.

Autumn Falls Along Luke Road, Scott County, KY

2009-10-19T23:00:00.003-04:00

Bike 20 miles to Sadieville and back, Sunday, Oct. 18 late afternoon/early evening. Creeks are still carrying a lot of water. The creek paralleling Luke Road near Davis Road has some pretty waterfalls. Turn up the volume.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 2, Part 4

2009-10-17T15:20:00.004-04:00

More homemade signs at the Finchville pit stop. Some are on garbage containers.

Sign as I approach Louisville. Soon after this I turn off onto a pretty country road which leads to quiet residential streets funneling me into the finish line at E. P. Tom Sawyer State Park.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 2, Part 3

2009-10-17T10:33:00.004-04:00

Finally arrive at the last pit stop in Finchville before Louisville. I see these wonderful homemade signs posted on a fence. I ask about them. Pit stop-helper, Marybeth, tells me that scouting families created the signs.

I strike up a conversation with a lady who works at Louisville's Norton Cancer Institute hoping she can answer a question that no one else has been able to answer. How did the Ride To Conquer Cancer land in Kentucky? (We and California are the only states that have the Ride.) Why Kentucky? She answers that the Canadian-based Ride organization wanted to expand its cancer-fighting efforts to America. It discovered that Kentucky has the highest cancer rates in the U.S. due to smoking and coal mining. It's a dubious honor but the Ride represents one more thing being done to defeat cancer.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 2, Part 2

2009-10-15T22:42:00.004-04:00

Sunday's lunch stop in Mt. Eden. Never knew there was a school for horseshoeing. Today is cooler than yesterday. We've been fighting a headwind the entire way. Nicholas is waiting for me at this stop. It's the first time I've seen him on the route.

Lunches are tasty and filling. Some bikers, including me, accept ibuprofen for the aches. Blankets are handed out to those who are cold.

Friendly dog who gets to know some of us. I see a lot of dogs along the route. Not one dog chases me.

Heading for the last pit stop in Finchville. All the creeks are swollen. So much water. The blue thing hanging around my chest is the harness for my camera. I stop here to take some pics of the river. My stop instantly turns into an unofficial pit stop for other bikers, Ride volunteers/staffers and my cruising son, Nicholas.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 2, Part 1

2009-10-13T22:23:00.003-04:00

One of the many signs pointing the way back to Louisville 75 miles away early Sunday morn.

Sign at Headley Whitney Museum advertising Georgetown photographer Steve Hockensmith's photo display of Spanish Mustangs. Lynn and I went opening night. The man knows how to use a camera! We bought his book.

There are a lot of colorful jerseys.

Pit stop in Lawrenceburg.

All pit stops have people cheering the bikers. Seems like a small thing but it really helps.

Toastmasters Area Competition, Part 2

2009-10-12T20:57:00.005-04:00

Our own animated Kathy Kenimer, runner-up in the Area Humorous Speech Contest, demonstrates how she stopped a funeral procession in downtown Carlisle, KY.

Our own Ashley McGlone, winner in the Area Humorous Speech Contest, pleads with parents not to give their sons girl names.

Our own Mike Key, winner in the Area Table Topics Contest, explains why New York state health workers should not be required to be inoculated with the flu vaccine. Photos courtesy of my wife, Lynn.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 1, Part 2

2009-10-11T19:48:00.004-04:00

First pit stop Saturday about 15 miles out of Louisville. Pits stops are well organized and well stocked with snacks, drinks, toilets and even medical. Pit stops are situated approximately every 15 miles along the route. I'm impressed with the entire Ride operation--coordination, helpful, cheerful support volunteers. I notice the riders come in all shapes, sizes and ages. Many of the overweight riders are strong riders.

End of the line for Saturday's 82 mile ride is Masterson Station Park, Lexington. Riders are entertained by the Beatles-playing Rigbys and wolf down some wonderful catered Mexican food. There is Pale Ale beer too.

Tents are available for riders at Masterson Station Park. I chicken out and head home to my bed in Georgetown. Nicholas sleeps in a tent. Tomorrow is the 75 mile return trip to Louisville and I want to make sure I'm sufficiently rested.

Toastmasters Area Competition, Part 1

2009-10-10T13:44:00.004-04:00

Kitty Cat never misses an opportunity to hog the glory. She is taking a peep at my 1st place trophy for winning today's Toastmasters Area Competition Table Topics at the Lexington Public Library. Competition was brutal. I advance to next Saturday's Division competition. Georgetown Royal Toastmasters' Ashley McGlone won best humorous speech while Kathy Kenimer grabbed 2nd place. Not bad for the newest Toastmasters Club in the Area.

A golden aura for my trophy.

Toastmasters amongst the chairs. (Stars weren't out yet.) More pics forthcoming.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Day 1, Part 1

2009-10-09T19:49:00.007-04:00

Three hundred seventy five riders gather Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 AM at Louisville's E.P. Tom Sawyer Park for the start of the first Kentucky Ride to Conquer Cancer. We are treated to an excellent catered breakfast. Speakers remind us what the Ride is really about--the fight against cancer. I'm feeling pretty calm about things. I'm not nervous. I've trained hard for this and I'm ready for it. My only regret is that my son Nicholas can't ride with me because of his July bike accident. But he's a trooper and joins the supporting pit crew for these two days. He stays out late Friday night marking today's 82 mile route from Louisville to Lexington with yellow Ride to Conquer Cancer signs. He doesn't get back to our Galt House motel room until 11 PM.

A group of selected bikers escorts a riderless bike affixed with a yellow flag. This bike represents all those souls who have lost the fight to cancer. The yellow flag is also seen on the bikes of cancer survivors riding in the Ride To Conquer Cancer.

It's a beautiful cool day for a ride. The first part of the ride winds through city streets. Busy intersections are manned by police who stop traffic to let us through. After thirty minutes of pedaling we reach less traveled country roads. As I adjust to the rhythm of route and riders, I remind myself of all the support I have from relatives, friends, Scott County Public Library coworkers and St. John Church parishioners. It's a great comfort. I look at the green "Mimi" bracelet on my right wrist. It reminds me of Marilyn who is battling cancer. This in turn reminds me of my other fellow librarians who are fighting cancer. First pit stop is 15 miles away.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 56

2009-09-25T05:35:00.005-04:00

This is it! We leave for Louisville today after work. We will be staying at the Galt House which is where I'll be next Friday to give a Pig Skull Book Club presentation for the Kentucky Library Association. Except for an injured (broken?) toe from last night's packing, I'm good to go. The start is Saturday, 8 AM at E.P. Tom Sawyer Park. Seventy-five miles later I'll roll into Lexington's Masterson Park for overnight camping with my son Nicholas and hundreds of other Ride to Conquer Cancer riders. Sunday I ride back to Louisville for the grand finish at E.P. Tom Sawyer Park. I'll post pics later next week. Keep me in your prayers.

Long Lick Baptist Church finally has its steeple. Looks good.

Brandon and Paige Marry, Part 2

2009-09-14T22:22:00.006-04:00

More pics of my early morn hike on the loop trail at Deer Creek State Resort. It all seems so right after Brandon and Paige's marriage.

I like how the sun filters through the trees.

Red leaves are cool, especially when they drip droplets of water.

Apricot colored leaves displayed against a bright sky.

Bright cheerful colors to celebrate a marriage.

Brandon and Paige Marry, Part 1

2009-09-12T22:28:00.005-04:00

My son Brandon marries Paige Sept. 9 in Circleville, OH. Dinner afterwards is at Deer Creek State Resort where Brandon is a cook. We all have a wonderful time rejoicing with the newlyweds.

Sunrise the next day over Deer Creek Lake. I hike a short loop trail near the resort.

Shaft of sunlight creates a golden spot on the trail

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 55

2009-09-06T18:59:00.005-04:00

I stop at Lee's place after visiting nearby Switzer Bridge today, Sept. 5. Lee is having some work done to the basement. Behind the dirt pile is a worker in a deep hole waterproofing the outside basement wall.

Some interesting items on a shed wall.

Quilt on Lee's barn.

Ad on an outdoor thermometer for horse liniment which is also good for jackasses. We should send a ton of the stuff to Washington, DC.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 54

2009-09-06T18:36:00.006-04:00

Switzer covered bridge just over the county line into Franklin County, Sept. 5. This is Kentucky's official state covered bridge.

Tighter shot.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 53

2009-09-06T13:45:00.007-04:00

More pics taken Sept. 5 at North Fork Baptist church. I sit down for this shot trying to find an interesting angle and capture the detail in the concrete walk and steps.

Fall is here early as can be seen from these leaves in the church parking lot near the graveyard.

Totally off topic but it occurs to me that the sport of road biking brings out the feminine side in men. Consider what we male bikers do: shave our legs, wear spandex shorts that feel like girdles, wear brightly colored fru-fru jerseys and, in my case, wear a heart sensor around my chest that feels like a little Wonder bra designed for "emerging" teenage girls.

Maybe this explains why biking has been slow to catch on in America. What does this say about biking-obsessed Europe?

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 52

2009-09-06T07:19:00.012-04:00

A funny reminder to watch that sharp wagging tongue. People forget the awful power of words. Words can build up and soothe. Words can also tear down and destroy. Gossip can destroy reputations and lives. "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never harm me" is a lie. Read what Rabbi Telushkin has to say about the power of words . I take these pics, Sept. 5, at the lovely North Fork Baptist church just off Switzer Road near the covered bridge.

Intriguing shadows and light. Nice bike, huh?

I like the vibrant contrast.

There is a handsome graveyard. One of the Lucas headstones is for a Confederate soldier.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 51

2009-09-05T19:04:00.004-04:00

I bike 36 miles this beautiful Fall-like day. I take East Honaker Road to Graves Road to Locust Fork Road. These first two pics are of an abandoned home at Graves and Locust Fork roads near Stamping Ground. The mailbox introduces and emphasizes the abandonness of the home. Sue W. of Salt-Rising Bread fame tells me that the home was owned by a lady whose mission in life was to empower black women. She says there are plans for the property.

This robust and handsome Michigander must have taken a wrong turn in Toledo. Photo tilt provided by mailbox cum camera platform.

The history lesson continues as I pedal south down Locust Fork into Stamping Ground.

Bet you can't guess the significance of this field along Locust Fork Road. I know only because I ask Stacy who lives next door to the field. It's a croquet field complete with lights and was a venue for tournament play. Stacy tells me recently-deceased local resident and former field owner, Art Burtfield (?), was an American champion.

When I breeze into Stamping Ground I see Jackie and Sue W., the Salt-Rising Bread people, and Charlotte selling their goods at the farmer's market. Jackie explains the history of Stamping Ground. He surprises me when he says Stamping Ground some years ago had a Ford dealership, theater and three grocery stores. However, the 1974 tornado changed the face and economic activity of Stamping Ground. Sue says I can fill my water bottles at her bakery down the road. Charlotte stuffs my ditty bag with Green Peppers.

My vital stats from my bike computer: Speed (13.3 mph avg., 33.3 mph max.); Heart (124 bpm avg., 156 bpm max.); and Cadence (79 revolutions per minute avg., 199 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 948 calories. Actual pedal time is 2 hours, 44 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 50

2009-09-03T19:15:00.007-04:00

The Pig Skull Bike Team rides again! This is Nichloas' first time out since his July 20 accident and it's great having him back. We ride 27 miles today, Sept. 2, early morn before work. I show him a new route off of Biddle Pike. I take him down Indian Creek Road for 1/2 mile to Gaines Road which after 3 miles connects with Long Lick Pike. Gaines is a very pretty and HILLY road. I top out at 41 mph descending the hill that empties into Long Lick Pike. Man, I REALLY LIKE SPEED! Today is like a wonderful fall day--cool and blue. I even spy some leaves that have already turned red. The pic above is Nicholas on Locust Fork Road in Stamping Ground feeling glad he's back in the saddle.

Further north on Locust Fork Road approaching Long Lick Pike is this curious sign. Not too far from here I almost become a dump truck's new hood ornament when I encounter said truck while negotiating a curve on a steep descent. There are quite a few log cabin homes along this stretch of Locust Fork. Maybe some log cabin discount some years ago?

My vital stats from the bike computer: Speed (13.2 mph avg., 41.2 mph max.); Heart (112 bpm avg., 149 bpm max.); and Cadence (75 revolutions per minute avg., 119 revolutions per minute max.) I burn 590 calories. Actual pedal time is 2 hours, 4 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 49

2009-08-30T13:52:00.002-04:00

These are more pics of the Bond Pike goats and tractor from my Aug. 19 ride.

And some flowers at Bond Pike and US 227.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 48

2009-08-30T13:30:00.004-04:00

Quilts along Minors Branch Road seen on my Aug. 29, 50 miler.

I travel for the first time down Gaines Road connecting Indian Creek Road with Long Lick Pike. It's only three miles long but it's a pretty three miles. Rural Scott County is beautiful. Meet a guy at the intersection of Gaines and Long Lick across from Long Lick Baptist Church. He says he and his buddy run along Gaines. Och! That's got to be hard on the knees. I'll stick with biking.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 47

2009-08-29T15:27:00.010-04:00

This is the church in Minorsville on US 227. I ride 50 miles this early morn--my first 50 miler! (And my first time out since I got my bike back from the shop. It was a stinkin' tiny piece of glass in the front tire that was puncturing the inner tubes.) The ride isn't bad. My body is in decent shape. It's mental toughness more than anything else. Mental fatigue starts to creep in after 35 miles (I talk to myself a lot).

This is the church altar. I meet Gary H. at the church front steps. He is a parishioner working on the sound system. Gary owns Patriot Autos in Georgetown. I tell him I work at the library. He says he graduated with my boss Earlene sometime during the 20th century. He lets me fill my water bottle. We speak about Alaska, Florida, bike riding, hunting, wild pigs, pastors, cancer and death. Gary mentions that pastor Tom K. is dying of esophagus cancer yet keeps preaching and has wonderful support from the parishioners. I suggest Pastor Tom is an inspiring example to the parishioners on how to die with dignity and moral strength. It reminds me of Pope John Paul's wonderful example.

Stain glass window above church front door.

I see a good amount of road kill during my bike rides. I find this fawn on Long Lick Pike just west of Locust Fork Road. It's a recent kill because the body is still warm and there is no bloating. I move the body to the side of the road. Sad.

My vital stats from my bike computer: Speed (13.2 mph avg., 39.5 mph max.); Heart (126 bpm avg., 165 bpm max.); Cadence (80 revolutions per minute avg., 199 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 1368 calories. Actual pedal time is 3 hours, 47 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 46

2009-08-24T20:10:00.011-04:00

More pics from my Aug. 19 ride. The first three pics are of pretty Long Lick Baptist Church on Long Lick Pike near Locust Fork Road.

A parishioner tells me that the new steeple will be installed when the weather is right and the men are ready.

This is the graveyard at Long Lick Baptist Church.

Pretty horse and quilt at a barn on Bond Pike. This is a distant shot.

Good news. The bike shop phones this evening to say my bike is ready. Yee haw! (I'm buying plenty of spare inner tubes).

Bad news. Looks like my pepper spray and I will be "training" another Rottweiler. This new brute lives on Long Lick Pike. Wish me well. (I wonder if this might become a part-time business; training dogs to stop chasing bikers.)

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 45

2009-08-20T22:06:00.005-04:00

This is my wife in my red truck coming to my rescue on Bond Pike, Aug 19. Turn up the sound to hear the rolling truck tires and the tweeting birds!

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 44

2009-08-20T12:55:00.011-04:00

Stranded again! Yesterday's early morn 13.7 mile ride before work turns into a lazy morn because I have another flat tire and again no spare tube. I phone my wife and she picks me up and shows me Gaines Road which is beautiful country road that I will explore when I get my bike back from the bike shop. My guess is that there is some pointy thing in the front tire, undetectable by me, puncturing the tubes. I am now a bike guy without a bike. These first two pics are at the intersection of Bond Pike and US 227 northwest of Stamping Ground. This is where my wife rescues me. The pic below shows my bike on Bond Pike facing US 227. Stamping Ground is to the left.

I have divine help today notwithstanding the fact that I am dead in the water...and these goats and old tractor today are the instruments of God's saving help. I like to say my morning prayers while biking these beautiful, peaceful country roads. I just finish my Guardian Angel prayer "Angel of God my guardian dear..." when I notice these goats and old tractor. I stop and take some pics and then notice that my front tire is flat. Flat tires are annoying but my goat-inspired photo op probably saves me from serious injury. Look at the pic below to understand why (left click pic).

This is a long, steep Bond Pike descent that empties into US 227. Last time I rode down this hill I did about 40 mph. It is just after the goats and old tractor.

Some people equate goats with the Devil. Not me.

My vital stats from the bike computer: Speed (13.6 mph avg., 37.7 mph max.); Heart (119 bpm avg., 146 bpm max.); Cadence (82 revolutions per minute avg., 111 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 329 calories. Actual pedal time is 1 hour.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 43

2009-08-16T19:24:00.008-04:00

This is the house on Rogers Gap Road. I ride almost 32 miles this morn before work. I bike Long Lick Pike from Skinnersburg Road to Locust Fork Road which is a portion of Long Lick Pike I've never before biked. Really pretty scenery. Pretty Long Lick Baptist Church with graveyard. I believe I bike past JoAnn's home. Take Locust Fork to Bond Pike to US 227 to Stamping Ground then back. Spook a bunch of turkeys on Bond Pike. There is a GREAT, LONG descent on Bond Pike that empties into US 227. It's really great to ride early in the morn--cool temps, quiet, no traffic, great light for taking pics. Unfortunately, I don't have my camera with me this morn. These pics are from yesterday's ride, Aug. 15.

Another pic from Elk Lick Road.

This is the long hill climb up to the lonely cemetery on Hinton Sadieville Road. You can just barely make out the cemetery. Not a good shot, I know, but it gives you an idea of the long, lonely climb.

More flowers along Hinton Sadieville Road.

My vital stats from my bike computer for today's ride: Speed (13.9 mph avg., 37.0 mph max.); Heart (118 bpm avg., 144 bpm max.); Cadence (80 revolutions per minute avg., 128 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 731 calories. Actual pedal time is 2 hours, 17 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 42

2009-08-15T15:52:00.005-04:00

Cemetery on Hinton Sadieville Road not far from Stone Road. I see this shot as I'm climbing a long hill. The loneliness of the cemetery really strikes me and it is this feeling I try to capture. I was tempted to crop out the stump in the top right corner but leave it in because it adds to the feeling of loneliness. I'm not all that happy with this pic. Suggestions anyone?

Flowers along Hinton Sadieville Road

House along Rogers Gap Road not far from the railroad crossing. I like the shadows. I wonder who lived here? Why did they leave? What kind of stories were told on that porch during lazy, warm, cricket-singing summer evenings?

Close up of house.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 41

2009-08-15T15:09:00.007-04:00

Stone wall along Elk Lick Road near Sadieville. I am 15.8 miles into my intended 50 miler when my front tire develops a leak. I don't have a spare tube nor other needed equipment. My cell phone doesn't work out here so I knock on Bobby and Linda's front door and ask to use their phone to call my wife. Linda answers the door and says "You work at the library." I hear this a lot out in the country. I meet her husband, Bobby, who has been on his tractor removing rocks from a field. He introduces me to his other ladies--Susie Q and Clementine; two Blue Heeler bitches from the same litter. Sweet gentle dogs. I tell Bobby and Linda about my dogs, Jack and Molly, and how they are trained for Scott County Public Library's Sit-Stay-Read program. I phone my wife and she picks me up and takes me back to my truck on Rogers Gap.
I like this pic except for the early morn glare down the road. Can't remove it with my polarizing filter nor with photo editing. Suggestions anyone?

Vital stats from my bike computer: Speed (13.7 mph avg., 40.7 max.); Heart (128 bpm avg., 215 bpm max.); Cadence (77 revolutions per minute avg., 145 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 419 calories. Actual pedal time is 1 hour, 9 minutes. Man, can you believe my max. heart rate--215 bpm! I'm surprised this old geezer didn't have a heart attack. I'm a tough old bird, ain't I?

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 40

2009-08-13T19:14:00.008-04:00

Looking down Skinnersburg Road at Corinth Christian Church. I bike about 22 miles today, Aug. 12, before work. Get a late 9:30 AM start at Biddle Pike and eventually end up in Stamping Ground to visit Jackie and Sue (the Salt-Rising Bread people). Sort of warm but the heat doesn't bother me. Feel good going up steep hills. My strength, endurance and cardio have improved. I CAN FEEL IT!!!!!

Interesting shadows at Corinth Christian Church.

Quilt along Seebree Road heading into Stamping Ground. I bike some new roads today in addition to Seebree--Graves and Stonetown. I don't have time to take pics of the other quilts along Seebree. Next time.

Closeup of same quilt.

Some good news. You CAN teach an old dog new tricks--especially if you use pepper spray. Remember the Rottweiler on Biddle Pike that I blasted with pepper spray? I ride by his home today. Guess what? He is there on his front lawn near the road. Guess what happens? Nothing. He watches me pedal down the road. I just hope he has a good memory--biker=pain.

Vital stats from my bike computer: Speed (13.7 mph avg., 34.5 mph max); Heart (125 bpm avg., 153 bpm max.); Cadence (84 revolutions per minute avg., 199 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 568 calories. Actual pedal time is 1 hour, 36 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 39

2009-08-11T22:42:00.004-04:00

I bike 19 miles after work today. My vital stats from my bike computer: Speed (14.4 mph avg., 33.3 max.); Heart (119 bpm avg., 141 max.); Cadence (81 revolutions per minute avg., 116 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 439 calories. Actual pedal time 1 hour, 21 minutes. I see more quilts along Burton Pike.

These are some of Saturday's Mallard Point Lame Duck Triathlon participants. They ride in front of our house.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 38

2009-08-07T20:26:00.005-04:00

Another pic of the dynamic damaged duo. BTW that's Nicholas' bike I'm using as a prop.

You might recall a previous post about my near electrocution at a Sulphur Wells driveway strung with barely visible coiled electric wire. I revisit the scene during my August 6 ride. The driveway veers to the left with the coiled wire strung between the two big trees. Can ya see it? Neither could I.

Here's a closeup of the tree to the right.

The quilt is along Burton Pike. I like how my polarizing filter captures the sky's blue and brings out the contrast with the green grass--vivid.

Same quilt but from an artsty-craftsy angle. My spandexed butt gets wet with this shot. Oh, the sacrifices we artists make for the sake of the craft.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 37

2009-08-06T20:42:00.006-04:00

Nicholas has his skin graft surgery this morn. I'm pointing it out to him. He's not very observant. I also remind him, once again, that he needs to start shaving his arms and legs. Maybe now he'll finally listen to his old man.
Doc says Nicholas will be healed in two weeks.

Not every librarian can look this good. I work really hard to keep my legs pasty white. It's not easy with all this infernal sun shining down. I go through a lot of sun block.

Would you check out a book from THIS guy?

Go Blue! Muscles & Michigan. I ride 33 miles after work down Biddle Pike to Skinnersburg to Glass Pike to Long Lick Pike to Sulphur Wells Road back to Biddle Pike. My vital stats from the Cateye bike computer: Speed (13.3 mph avg., 33.3 max.); Heart (130 bpm. avg., 153 max.); Cadence (80 revolutions per minute avg., 109 revolutions per minute max.). I burn 932 calories. Actual pedal time is 2 hours and 29 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 36

2009-08-02T22:14:00.005-04:00

Any idea what this is?

Here's another clue. And the answer is.............

A goldfish! Yeah, right.

Ride 18 miles after work today down Biddle Pike to Skinnersburg to Glass Pike to Long Lick Pike and back. I finally connect with the Rottweiler that chases us down Biddle Pike. He gets a face full of pepper spray. Stops him fast. I hope he learned his lesson. Vital stats from my Cateye bike computer: Speed (13.4 mph avg., 31.8 max); Heart (121 bpm avg., 147 bpm max); and Cadence (77 revolutions per minute avg., 134 revolutions per minute max). I burn 457 calories and pedal for 1 hour, 22 minutes.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 35

2009-07-31T22:35:00.005-04:00

The Ivy House From Hell along US 227 in Minorsville. A fellow photographer asks me if I went inside. I tell her I did not go inside because I don't want to go to hell. This pic and the ones that follow are from my July 30 ride.

A huge downed tree along Josephine Road.

Some interesting colors and textures. Notice the glaring sky. My polarizing lens does not take it out. The same fellow photographer suggests using a graduated filter. It's on my shopping list

Nicholas saw the plastic surgeon today. He is going to have a skin graft sometime next week. Bad news is that Nicholas won't be able to ride his bike for at least five weeks. He stills intends to do the Ride To Victory in September. He's a real trooper.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 34

2009-07-30T16:52:00.007-04:00

I ride 40 miles today and fall only once! Not bad, huh? I take Biddle Pike to Salem to Porter to Josephine to Frazier to Caney Creek to Sutcliff to Minors Branch to US 227 into Minorsville and back. I take these macro flower pics next to the Ivy House From Hell in Minorsville. I have some difficulty focusing these marco shots because a slight breeze causes the flowers to sway. Even so, I'm happy with the results. Left click for more detail.

The focus on this "bug" plant is behind the nettles. Notice the finer detail of the leaf veins. The wind was tricky on this one.
My "twinkle toes" shot along Minors Branch Road. The vital stats from my Cateye bike computer: Speed (12.9 mph avg., 36.9 mph max); Heart Rate (130 bpm avg., 157 bpm max.); and Cadence (75 pedal revolutions per minute avg., 145 pedal revolutions max.). I burn 1189 calories. Actual pedaling time is 3 hours, 9 minutes. This is my longest ride so far. I know I could have gone further. Need to start earlier in the day.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 33

2009-07-28T22:28:00.007-04:00

What kind of yahoo strings a barely visible white coiled electric fence across his driveway? That's what I want to know. The smell of toasted biker is not a pleasant smell. And it almost happens today during my 22 mile ride after work down Biddle Pike to Glass Pike with a detour down Sulphur Wells Road. I'm descending and approaching what looks like a left turn on Sulphur Wells. Well, the fast approaching left turn is actually a driveway strung with, you guessed it, "a barely visible white coiled electric fence." Hit the brakes HARD. Go down HARD. Miss by inches my chance for a really neat burned-on tattoo. Do a quick inventory of possible bike damage: one kaput water bottle, one cockeyed bike seat and one dislodged bike chain. I count my blessings.

No one ever warned me about the dangers of bicycling. Never in my worst nightmares did biking and electrocution go together. I've always seen biking as a healthy, relaxing roll down bucolic cow-studded country lanes. Silly me.

Other than that and running over a green snake (relax, the snake lives but now sports a really nifty tire pattern on his butt (?) that he can show off to his grandsnakes), this has been a great ride. I test out my new Cateye bike computer which measures, among other things, heart rate, cadence and calories burned. For the first few minutes of the ride I am officially dead. I have no displayed heart rate. Nonetheless, I keep pedaling waiting for my heart to catch up. It does and I record some really cool data from the bike computer: Speed (13 mph avg., 36.8 mph max.); Heart rate (122 beats per minute avg., 148 bpm max.); and Cadence (76 pedal revolutions per minute avg., 149 pedal revolutions per minute max. I burn 583 calories.

This pic and the ones that follow are from my July 16 ride. This is an odd building along North Dividing Ridge Road.

Goat farm along North Dividing Ridge.

Pig race track along Whiston Road. The owners had been at Scott County Public Library two weeks prior with their petting zoo.

That's one fast pig.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 32

2009-07-27T22:25:00.009-04:00

Getting really serious about my training. Went and bought me a new bike computer that measures speed, heart rate, cadence (how fast I pedal per minute) and calories burned. All of these measurements can be displayed in real time, average and maximum. There are lot more measurements available. My only complaint is that the numerals are too small for old geezer eyes. This might be something I hand down to my son.

More pics of the Pollard Henry Cemetery from my July 16 ride. This is taken from inside the cemetery looking across NE Countyline Road at an old shack.

There is a plastic case affixed to a wooden post which contains vital statistics of some of the people buried at the cemetery.
This is a closeup of the record for farmer and widower Pollard Mack Henry, died May 27, 1937 of chronic heart disease. Left click for a better look.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 31

2009-07-26T14:09:00.009-04:00

This is what it looks like this morn at 6:50 AM riding 18 miles down Biddle Pike to Skinnersburg to Glass Pike to Long Lick Pike and back. The fog fogs my glasses so I ride without them. I put my bike into sonar mode--ping! ping! ping! Something big and fast parts the fog directly in front of me. I swear it's a torpedo but it barks as it whizzes past. Barking torpedoes? Only in Kentucky. Anyway...what a great time of day to bike. It's cool. It's quiet. It's calming. Traffic is zilch. Distant mooing and barking and other critter sounds seem to carry further and have that special early morn-biking-Kentucky country road-barking torpedo quality. Ya know what I mean? Colors are subdued but richer. They aren't washed out by the noon day sun. Even smells are richer (that's an artsy-craftsy way of saying "smellier"). I pass through a pungent yet delightful aromatic cloud of tobacco as I pass an old tobacco barn on Glass Pike. Cow and horse manure twizzle my nose hair. Prayer seems the proper response on my return trip to get ready for 10:30 Mass. Glass Pike resounds with "Our Father," "Hail Mary," "St. Michael the Archangel," and "Angel of God my guardian dear." A final prayer of thanksgiving leaves my lips for heaven thanking God for watching over my son Nicholas during his recent biking accident.

Speaking of Nicholas...the plastic surgeon says Nicholas' elbow injury is healing nicely. No infection. He will need a skin graft though. He will meet again with the plastic surgeon next Friday to schedule the surgery.

This headstone pic and the following ones are from my July 16 ride. They were taken at the Pollard Henry Cemetery on NE Countyline Road.

There are a lot of Kidwells. "Cheak" is a bench.

Detail of headstone's soldier pic.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 30

2009-07-23T06:12:00.005-04:00

Nicholas had a biking accident Monday, July 20, a little past noon during his ride from Keenland to Frankfort on US 60. He was traveling over 20 mph on the shoulder nearing the Bluegrass Parkway when he reached down for his water bottle and lost control after hitting a big bump in the pavement. He was rushed to UK’s emergency room. There is a big deep open wound, called an avulsion, at his left elbow. The skin is completely gone exposing the fascia covering the muscle. There is no joint damage. His elbow is wrapped in gauze now. Nicholas says there is little pain. He will see a plastic surgeon this Friday to determine if he needs a skin graft.

It was a long day for all of us. We didn’t leave ER until 10:30 PM. It was a very busy place. Lynn and I are thankful for all the wonderful care and attention Nicholas received from doctors and nurses. We are also grateful for the help extended to our son by the Versailles police, Woodford County paramedics and the two Good Samaritan motorists who stopped to lend a hand.

And thank you to all of you for your concern and prayers. It’s a great comfort.

I've discovered that my son responds a lot better to medical treatment if a pretty nurse adminsters it. Typical man, huh?

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 29

2009-07-19T18:10:00.006-04:00

More pics from my July 16 ride. These are pics of the Pollard Henry Cemetery along N.E. Countyline Road connecting Hinton Sadieville and Dryden roads. This portion of the road is loose gravel for one mile and requires some walking instead of riding. My bike points in the direction from which I came. I think the cemetery is in Harrison County.

Little baby Bessie Kidwell born Jan. 1906, died April 1906.

Closeup of baby Kidwell's angel. Left click for more detail.

Another angel headstone.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 28

2009-07-18T19:16:00.009-04:00

This big fella is fenced in with a goose along Double Culvert Road near US 25. There are dogs behind a separate fence. You should hear the noise these critters make as I take pics. The owner has a great alarm system. Didn't the ancient Romans use geese in this way?

I'm being dared to ride further down Hinton Sadieville Road. Stupid sign. Let's see what's ahead.

Double dare ya! Another stupid sign.

Methodist Church on Boyers Chapel Road. I'm not certain but I think this is in Harrison County.

The above pics are taken from my July 16 ride. Today, July 18, I ride 29 miles and feel really good. I power up each hill. No walking. I meet a friendly little beagle on Sims Road during my return trip. I befriend him. Big mistake. We are pals now. He follows me for two miles down Rogers Gap Road. I can't believe his perseverance with those little legs! He finally gives up after I open a big gap going down some fast descents. Wonderful little dog. Quite a change of pace from all the meat-eaters that chase us.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 27

2009-07-16T21:55:00.011-04:00

My knee feels great! I do 30 miles today beginning on Double Culvert at US 25 to Luke to Davis to Hinton Sadieville to NE Countyline to Dryden back on Dryden to Whitson back on Whitson to N. Dividing Ridge to Davis Turkeyfoot to Rogers Gap to Double Culvert. I climb just about all the hills without walking. I take a lot of pics today which really slows me down but there are so many pretty things out here. See all the flowers.

Dryden and Whitson roads take me into Harrison County. Wiley and Juanita, a very nice couple on Dryden at White Oak, fill my empty water bottle and even put ice in it! We have a nice chat about wild pig hunting in Florida (Wiley is from Polk County, FL) and clearing trees and brush from a fence-line. I invite them to visit Scott County Public Library.

I take a lot of pics today. I will post them in subsequent days. I won't need to take my camera. No more excuses about running out of time for that 50 miler.

My orthopedic doc releases me from his care. Today is also my last appointment with my physical therapist, Chad, at KORT. Chad and his assistants did a great job healing my knee. A KORT T-shirt is my graduation gift.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 26

2009-07-12T22:21:00.004-04:00

I ride alone for 23.5 miles after work down Rogers Gap to Double Culvert to Luke to Davis to Boyers Chapel and back. This is my first time on Boyers Chapel. I don't go far because I'm running out of daylight. I average 14.1 mph which is an improvement over yesterday's 13.8 mph. I feel good. Take a lot of hills without walking. Thinking of getting a cadence/heart monitor cyclocomputer to give me a better idea how my training is going. Meet some lady bikers earlier in the day before Mass at Georgetown's Lock & Key coffee joint. They suggest the Cateye brand cyclocomputer. The one lady is from Champaign, IL visiting her biking buddy from Lexington, KY who rides a Specialized. They biked in from Midway. The Illinois lady says she isn't used to hills.

Macro shot of pretty flower along Boyers Chapel Road fence.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 25

2009-07-11T22:43:00.005-04:00

I ride alone 20 miles after work. I take Rogers Gap to Double Culvert to Luke to Davis to the City of Sadieville. I feel good. A lot better than the last ride. It's cooler today. I'm able to climb some hills. I average 13.8 mph with a top speed of just over 40 mph during a descent on Luke. I love speed.

I use my polarizing lens to take out the glare on the side of the caboose. The reds and yellows are more vivid too--true to life. I use the Landscape setting for more depth of field.

Local boy, Robert H. Brooks, was quite the hero. I wasn't aware of his history.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 24

2009-07-09T20:32:00.004-04:00

Turkeyfoot Christian Church on Rogers Gap near Double Culvert.

Nicholas doing some biceps work during a break on Rogers Gap and Double Culvert near Turkeyfoot Christian Church.

Nicholas descending a steep hill on Double Culvert near Luke.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 23

2009-07-09T16:54:00.006-04:00

Nicholas-the-biking-weatherman commenting on the heat along Double Culvert near Luke. We decide to turn back. For some reason we are both exhausted after only six miles! I guess it's the heat. One thing is for certain--the Tour de France boys have nothing to fear from us.

Nicholas tells me he didn't want to be the first one to admit defeat. He is relieved when dear Old Dad prudently seeks relief in an air conditioned home supplied with homebrew.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 22

2009-07-09T16:30:00.005-04:00

This is Nicholas ascending a steep hill on Double Culvert to Luke. Listen carefully and you can hear him change gears. We get a late start today and it's hot. We turn around here and total only 12 miles today.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 21

2009-07-06T22:41:00.010-04:00

I ride 22 miles this evening down Rogers Gap to Double Culvert to Biddle Pike past Indian Creek and back averaging 13.8 mph. Not great but not bad considering I have to walk some of the hills. Make some doggie buddies on the return trip while walking up a hill near Luke. Nice doggies. I guess that's the secret to Biker-Doggie peace--walk the bike. Puts a slight crimp in things doesn't it? My knee feels pretty good. I'm discovering the joy of climbing hills while standing up in the bike. It's easier than trying to stay seated but it "burns" more.

Nicholas and I will ride 50 miles this Thursday--Keenland to Frankfort and back.

I see Chad, my physical therapist, tomorrow. I've been faithful about doing my daily stretching exercises.

Please sponsor either Nicholas Key or Mike Key or both of us by donating either online or by printing off mail-in donation forms at Ride To Conquer Cancer.

Thank you.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 20

2009-07-05T17:57:00.005-04:00

This is what happened to a tree that got too close to our 42.9 mph biking descent on Hinton Sadieville Road! And to spare the tender feelings of our little readers, I won't show the pics of all the roadkill we left in the wake of our Pig Skulls killer sonic tsunami. It ain't a pretty sight.

No bike riding today but I do 30 minutes on the treadmill.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 19

2009-07-04T12:39:00.012-04:00

No, that's not me. And no, it's not Nicholas. That's Lance my old biking buddy. I taught him everything I know. World's quickest lesson, don't ya know. Tour de France starts today. Hope to see some of it.

Nicholas and I rode yesterday evening, July 3, down Rogers Gap to Double Culvert to Luke to Hinton Sadieville and back. A total of 20.5 miles. It was Nicholas' first time on Hinton Sadieville Road. We set a record top speed of 42.9 mph descending Hinton Sadieville. Wow! I like speed. What a rush! My knee continues intermittently to ache and tighten up even with the seat set back. I particularly notice the discomfort after we do a sustained sprint along Double Culvert on our return trip. We lose track of time and are riding in the dark. It's 9:40 PM when we get back to the truck.

I'm really impressed with Nicholas' hill-climbing ability. He stands up in the bike and really powers up steep grades. He says he feels the burn in his legs but forces his body through the climb. Me? Hills I was able to power up before the May 28 accident are now occasions to take short walks. No matter, I'll be back in shape before the September bike event.

We meet a Boxer (dog) while returning on Luke. I give him some Pig Skull beef jerky. We are friends for life now.

Happy 4th everyone.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 18

2009-07-02T21:37:00.005-04:00

I'm back! And I'm celebrating with a pint of homebrew Pig Skull Ale .

Today is the first day on my bike since Chad, my physical therapist, said it was OK to resume riding. I do an easy five miles to get a feel for the moved backed bike seat. My knee feels fine. I'm concerned about the longer arm reach created by the moved backed seat. Can the handle bars be moved back too?

I do my stretching exercises after my bike ride. Man, some of the exercises REALLY pull on my quads and hams! I'm at least one inch taller now.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 17

2009-07-01T11:22:00.007-04:00

Good news! I can start riding again!

I attend my first physical therapy session with Chad at Kort Physical Therapy-Georgetown. Nice people work here. Chad knows a lot about muscles and tendons. My right leg's quads and hams are tighter than my left leg's. Chad shows me exercises to correct this. He also gives me an electrically-driven steroid treatment for my right knee. (I'm really glad I shaved my legs). I'll be getting more of these. I'll be seeing Chad twice a week. He says I can start riding again BUT I need to minimize hill climbing for a while. He suggests I move back my bike seat to reduce the angle and strain on my knee. I'll definitely give it the ol' college try.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 16

2009-06-29T23:21:00.009-04:00

Nicholas does his first 50 miler this early morn--from Keenland to Frankfort and back. He says it wasn't that difficult. He forgets to put sunblock on his arms. It takes him 3 hours to do the route.

I'm proud of you, Nicholas.

I run on the treadmill for 30 minutes. My knee feels fine. There is some soreness.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 15

2009-06-28T19:35:00.011-04:00

It ain't pretty, I know, but the link below will take you to a marked-up map of our Rogers Gap To Burgess Smith Loop bike ride near Sadieville. I've marked on the map where I wiped out May 28 on Burgess Smith. Don't know why the map image won't display directly in the blog.

Rogers Gap To Burgess Smith Loop

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 14

2009-06-27T14:20:00.014-04:00

Okay, I do today what the doc said to do--work my banged up knee with an activity other than biking. I run for 30 minutes on an elliptical treadmill. My knee feels fine. Yahoo!

Maybe I need to adjust my bike seat? (But my leg is almost fully extended with my bike's present seat height.) Hmmmmm.

I think it's really considerate of the county transportation department to warn motorists about the high school's substandard highway entrance.

While on the treadmill, I watch a History Channel feature about how some scientists are taking seriously the Seven Signs (Seals) of St. John's Apocalypse. There is much discussion about mankind being wiped out by asteroids, man-created plagues and mega earthquakes. I don't worry about such things. Do you?

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 13

2009-06-26T21:34:00.005-04:00

More overflowing creeks down the Double Culvert tunnel.

Pickup truck coming through. I don't try it.

Looking the other way down Double Culvert Road. That's my truck.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 12

2009-06-26T21:23:00.007-04:00

Went to scout a new bike route today. Heavy rains flood the tunnel on Double Culvert Road.

Today is very humid. My camera lens keeps fogging after I step out of my air conditioned truck.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 11

2009-06-25T19:30:00.005-04:00

Excellent 6-25-09 Georgetown News-Graphic article about the Pig Skulls Bike Team. Left click to enlarge article.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 10

2009-06-24T12:13:00.008-04:00

I see the orthopedic doctor this early morn, June 24, about my banged up right knee. The bad news: he'll have to amputate. The good news: my double-duty pedaling left leg will soon be a dead ringer for limbs seen on Kentucky Derby thoroughbreds. Nah, not really! Doc says I might have some bursitis. And get this--HE WANTS TO TREAT ME LIKE AN ATHLETE and see a physical therapist. Cool huh? Doc says to stay off the bike for awhile and try different activities that work the knee e.g. hiking, swimming, treadmill, to determine if it's just biking that is the culprit.

This fella was one of two bucks I saw near my house yesterday. He was the smaller one. His big brother had an impressive rack. These guys better watch out come bow hunting season.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 9

2009-06-24T11:25:00.012-04:00

Nicholas and some new bike toys he just HAD to have-- blue chain cleaner and super-duper purple tire lever. Nicholas says he refused to buy these two items until Pedal Power bike store had them in his two favorite colors. I guess he gave the store owner quite a tongue lashing for ignoring such an important color sensitive niche market. (I love my son but sometimes I think he watches too many Rambo movies.)

Nicholas and his Giant bike.

Closeup of Nicholas' bike and hairy legs. I keep advising him to shave his legs so he can at least look like Lance Armstrong. Me? I shave my legs because they look really cool that way.

Hey, the Pig Skull Bike Team had its first flat tire! Nicholas early yesterday morn, June 23, set out from Keenland for Frankfort and back (50 miles). He was eleven miles out on Versailles Road when his back tire ran over a tiny piece of glass--pfffft! He had neither a spare tube nor pump. A kind motorist rode him and bike back to Keenland. Guess what? Nicholas is now an expert at changing flats.

Nicholas rode early this morn, June 24, in our Mallard Point neighborhood. He did a quick seven miles and says he shaved seven minutes off his last time. Nicholas also says he conquered the BIG hill while standing up in the bike. Nicholas is working on breathing and pedaling techniques and urges me to do the same. I say "no thanks." I've been breathing now for 56 years and have pretty much mastered the nose-mouth thing.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 8

2009-06-22T20:04:00.012-04:00

Nicholas just about lost it early this morn, June 22, while biking in our Mallard Point neighborhood. He was by himself and didn't do well making the right turn off of Woodduck onto Mallard Point Drive. He went up and over a high shoulder onto a front lawn with his road bike suddenly doubling as a mountain bike. Nothing hurt but his pride.

One thing I've learned since beginning road biking: 35 miles per hour on a bike is a lot different than 35 miles per hour in a car. You really feel the speed on a bike. I find myself saying some quick "Hail Marys" while careening out of control down these Scott County country roads. To mangle the cowardly Oz lion's prayer--"I do believe in flat tires, I do, I do."

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 7

2009-06-20T21:56:00.005-04:00

All world-class athletes drink beer and the Pig Skulls Bike Team is no exception. There is one big difference between them and us, however. The Pig Skull Bike Team brews its own beer. Today, June 20, we opened the first bottles of Pig Skull Ale. Great color, great smell, great head and great taste. It is a fine example of an American Pale Ale. Slightly more hops than an English Pale Ale.

Nicholas, one of my assistant brewers (Jacob is my other assistant brewer), samples the first bottle of Pig Skull Ale. Our ale goes great with the Pig Skull Jerky we made.

I learned some disappointing news from my doctor the other day. My knee that was banged up in the bike accident May 28 is still not right. It aches and tightens up when I ride. In fact, it was that way even before the accident. Doc says I shouldn't ride until I see an orthopedic doc this Wednesday. I'm hoping for good news.

A word of warning: please be careful when using the Georgetown/Scott County Road and Street Guide map from the Chamber of Commerce. I have discovered street name errors for some country roads in northeast Scott County e.g. Boyers Chapel, Dryden, Muddyford.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 6

2009-06-18T17:58:00.010-04:00

Tractor moving out from home at Hinton-Sadieville and N.E. Countyline roads.

Horse along N.E. Countyline Road. I know nothing about horses but this one is beautiful.

Same horse and another one. What breed is this? I ride one mile down the road and am forced to turn back because the road turns to gravel for one mile. I'm not certain if my road tires will survive one mile of gravel. Must find out from more experienced bikers. Pity. It's a beautiful road.

Zebra at Rogers Gap Road farm. Same place that has the camels. It looks like the donkey (mule?) protects the little zebra.

I complete 30 miles today. I spook a deer and turkey on Elk Lick Road. Remember the sunny 8:30 start? The last seven or eight miles of my return trip are in the rain. Good experience, huh? We must be willing to adapt, huh? We are the superior critters on this planet, huh? Well, why the heck then does the big, fat ol' train park itself at the Rogers Gap crossing stopping all automobile (and bike) traffic for 10 or 15 minutes? By the way, did I mention it was raining?

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 5

2009-06-18T17:35:00.004-04:00

Inviting flowered entrance to N.E. Countyline Road. It looks perfect. I'm going down there.

Closeup of entrance.

Pretty home and pretty flowers at Hinton-Sadieville and N.E. Countyline roads.

Uncle Sam at intersection.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 4

2009-06-18T14:11:00.005-04:00

Start out at 8:30 AM today, June 18, on Rogers Gap Road. That's the I-75 overpass in the east. Weather is fine and muggy. Nicholas can't ride with me because of work. I intend to try out a new road today--N.E. Countyline Road off of Hinton-Sadieville Road.

This is my Specialized bike. Notice my silver twinkle-toe shoes that attach to the clipless pedals (and of course, my feet). The red bottle is my refillable air horn.

Sadieville Boat Ramp on Hinton-Sadieville Road near Davis Road. Water is slow and muddy. Dogs across the water run along the bank barking at me. What's with these dogs? Do I still smell too much like a Yankee?

Looking the other way while at the boat ramp.

I meet Virgil at the intersection of Hinton-Sadieville and N.E. Countyline roads. Virgil is from Booneville, KY and is visiting his daughter. He walks two miles each day with his tobacco stick-walking stick. He is a Vietnam era vet. We both agree that the vistas out here are beautiful. I give Virgil a Pig Skulls Bike Team business card. I break for water and a snack and look over my Scott County map.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 3

2009-06-16T21:15:00.005-04:00

We couldn't ride today, June 16, because of the rain. Nicholas is modeling the latest in anti-canine weaponry. We have found the refillable air horn to be really effective at stopping even big dogs. The pepper spray is our next line of defense. It is difficult to use while moving. We Pig Skulls use only the best stuff to protect our dainty ankles.

See! The pepper spray does work.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 2

2009-06-13T16:32:00.008-04:00

We see a LOT of these critters. It seems EVERY home has at least 12 or 13 dogs. NONE of them are leashed (well, not many). NONE of them are fenced in (well, very few). And NONE of them have been fed for three weeks (OK, so I exaggerate). But they ALL enjoy chasing us down "their" country roads. What to do? We have discovered that a REALLY loud refillable air horn available from Cabelas stops Rottweilers and Pit Bulls. We carry pepper spray as the next line of defense. This fella below lives on Josephine Road.

Feeding horses on Josephine Road.

Llamas on Biddle Pike. These critter pictures were taken Fall 2008.

Today, June 13, was the first time on my bike since my May 28 wipe out on Burgess Smith. My knee still aches and there is still some swelling and bruising. I did almost 29 miles today down Rogers Gap to Double Culvert to Luke to Davis to Hinton-Sadieville to Elk Lick to Pike (Davis) into Sadieville to Luke and back. While in Sadieville I saw my fellow librarian, Lee the Bookmobile Lady, in her Bookmobile waiting for patrons to check out books. Drats! I forgot to bring my camera on this bike ride. I missed a lot of good shots.

Ride To Conquer Cancer, Training Progress, Part 1

2009-06-13T13:57:00.020-04:00

My son, Nicholas, and I have created the Pig Skulls Bike Team and join other bike teams in the two-day 150-mile Ride To Conquer Cancer to raise money for Louisville's Norton Cancer Institute. The mega bike event is Sept. 26-27, 2009. Donate online through Sept. 24 or print off mail-in donation forms at Ride to Victory.org. Sponsor Mike or Nicholas or both of us and help us reach our individual $2500 fund-raising goals. Join the Pig Skulls bike team as a rider or crew member. Follow our training progress as we travel the pretty Scott County (KY) country roads to get in shape for September. See what strange critters lurk along these country lanes waiting, in some cases, to snack on tasty bikers. See how the potential "meals on wheels" use their superior human intellects to thwart these savage critters. And see how bikers really move their fannies to put distance between ankle and fang.

"We are bike-riding cancer fighters."

This is Nicholas, May 28, taking it easy outside the train tunnel on Double Culvert Road while I do all the hard work like taking pictures. I have to admit his legs look better than mine. Hey, he's a 21 year-old kid and I'm a 56 year-old mature gentleman.

Nicholas still taking it easy while drinking my water and watching all the pretty girls drive by.

Camels! In Kentucky! Can you believe it? These camels live on a farm on Rogers Gap Road. I've also seen zebras.

This particular evening, May 28, we do a short 19 mile ride--Rogers Gap Road to Double Culvert to Luke to Davis to Burgess Smith to Turkey Foot to Rogers Gap. We have our first accident. I lose control on Burgess Smith while attempting to negotiate a steep descending hairpin curve. My backend fishtails when I apply the brakes to slow down. I go down and skid while still attached to my bike. Bang up my knee. Doc says I shouldn't ride for a week.

Our longest ride so far is 35 miles when we rode on the other side of US 25--Biddle Pike to Skinnersburg to Long Lick to East Honaker to Graves to West Honaker to Locust Fork into Stamping Ground then back.

BTW Nicholas is riding a Giant road bike and I'm riding a Specialized. We both use clipless pedals which means we wear special shoes that attach to the pedals. And yes, we wear the goofy, butt-expanding, spandex shorts. The padding really does help during long rides.

Toastmasters, Part 1

2009-03-22T11:03:00.007-04:00

Georgetown Royal Toastmasters has been meeting for one year every Monday at noon at the Scott County Public Library. It is a partnership between Toastmasters and the library. Membership is open to anyone 18 or older who would like to improve his public speaking skills. This is Clint giving one of his manual speeches. His speech on Darwin was exceptional. That's Ashley timing Clint's speech. Ashley joined us after spending time at another Toastmaster club. His long experience is evident in his excellent speeches.

This is Marty. Not only is Marty a wonderful speaker but his Table Topics are outstanding

The board behind Marty displays a typical Toastmasters meeting--speeches, Table Topics, word/joke/thought of the day, speech evaluations etc. Left click for a better view of the board.

Macro Shots, Part 1

2009-03-22T10:04:00.003-04:00

Still learning about my new camera. Here are some experiments in macro photography. Looking into my kitchen from the dining room table. Notice how the nearest chair portion is slightly out of focus. I like how the chair curves away.

Same shot but with the nearest chair portion in focus.

Closer up. See the fine grain?

My glasses on the dining room table.

Critters, Part 1

2009-03-22T09:55:00.003-04:00

Molly looking thoughtful behind bars. "I promise never again to eat Jacob's homework." Spooky cat. Just playing around with macro shots and flash. Neat effect, huh?

Neighbor's chow puppy, Kai. Looks like a bear.

Family Cemetery, Scott County, KY, Part 2

2009-03-22T09:38:00.004-04:00

Closeup of the angel on top of the arch. Notice the lamb being held by the angel. That's my red Ford Ranger truck on Davis Turkeyfoot Road. Mt Gilead Church Road is coming in from the right.

Family Cemetery, Scott County, KY, Part 1

2009-03-22T09:18:00.009-04:00

This is the William Hinton family cemetery I discovered while driving around after my bike ride. It is on Davis Turkeyfoot Road between Hinton Cemetery and Mt. Gilead Church roads in northern Scott County. There are some WW2 vets buried here. See the ghost?

Bike Ride, Kentucky, Part 6

2009-03-22T09:04:00.003-04:00

Took a short 10 mile ride in the fairly new Westwoods subdivision north of Northern Elementary school off US 25. I did a number of repeat loops to total 10 miles. Had only one dog encounter. Westwoods is still really wide open country. This is a lovely plain. Notice the hunter's stand in the lower left.

Whispering Woods horses and trail.

This fella was with a bunch of other goats near Whispering Woods. The home owner came out to the road to quiz me about my picture taking. No problem. Pleasant chat.

Spring Slams Scott County, Part 4

2009-03-18T12:34:00.003-04:00

A neighbor's mailbox and yellow bush. More pretty flowers in my neighborhood.

These last two posts are more "before and after" pics of my home. My mailbox was ice-covered during the ice storm.

My driveway was a sheet of ice during the ice storm.

Spring Slams Scott County, Part 3

2009-03-18T12:20:00.006-04:00

This is my attempt at "before and after." These are the springtime version pics of the earlier Ice Storm Slams Scott County pics. See what a difference no snow and ice make. BBQ anyone? These table and chairs were covered in icicles not too long ago.

Ditto for the lawn mower steering wheel.

The "mushroom" in better weather.

I still hate this lawn mower. It looked better with snow and ice on it.

Spring Slams Scott County, Part 2

2009-03-18T12:14:00.004-04:00

More scenes from my bike ride in the neighborhood My neighborhood is full of strange grazing critters.

Molly is strange too.

But Jack is REALLY strange.

Pretty purple flowers.

Spring Slams Scott County, Part 1

2009-03-18T11:58:00.011-04:00

Spring is here. Today was the first time on my bike since Fall 2008. I rode through my neighborhood observing signs of approaching spring. Hard to believe there was an ice storm a little more than a month ago.

Notice the dog protecting his flowers.

Meet Up With Fellow British Studies Traveler At Ky Book Conference

2009-02-28T10:09:00.005-05:00

It was good to see fellow British Studies 2007 traveler, Kathy, at the annual children's literature McConnell Conference in Lexington, KY. We talked about things that have happened in our lives since British Summer Studies 2007 and reminisced about those good times in England and Scotland. Both Kathy and I were able to "pass the torch" to another conference attendee and UK student who is preparing to join British Summer Studies 2009. I wish I could go. At the conference banquet dinner, Kathy and I spoke with a fellow librarian and dinner-table guest who was born and raised in England but now lives in Kentucky. Someone else at the table had toured England as part of a church choir. She recalled singing at the beautiful Ely Cathedral.

Children's author Gary Schmidt from Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, was the keynote speaker. His speech was a good one. He pondered and asked us to consider how children are mentally able to make the transition from childhood to adulthood. What happens during their development that enables them to make adult-like decisions instead of child-like decisions? What compels this change of view? Schmidt, of course, thinks good children's literature has something to do with it. What is good children's literature? Schmidt blindsided us with a slam from St. Augustine, saying good literature must serve. If a piece of literature serves, then the other attendant virtues of good literature, such as wisdom, will follow. The only downside to Schmidt's speech was his gushing over Obama.

Snow Sparkles

2009-02-04T11:04:00.005-05:00

This is from my front yard. Sparkling snow flakes danced down from the trees. The video captures only a poor sense of it all. It was quite beautiful.

Cat and Snowy Scott County Library

2009-02-01T15:24:00.004-05:00

This is the family kitty cat. She wasn't bothered by the snow and ice because she never went out. Clock tower at Scott County Public Library.

Snowy Meadow Scenes, Part 2

2009-02-01T14:57:00.002-05:00

Jack doing what terriers do--dig!

Jack slept really well after his whirl-wind adventure in the meadow.

Snowy Meadow Scenes, Part 1

2009-02-01T14:38:00.006-05:00

These pics are from my neighborhood's meadow.

Jack scootin' across the frozen tundra.

Entrance to meadow.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 14

2009-02-01T14:31:00.001-05:00

Temperature in my backyard.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 13

2009-02-01T14:27:00.000-05:00

Closeup of Kiha.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 12

2009-02-01T14:23:00.000-05:00

Neighbor Rodney and his Chow puppy, Kiha.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 11

2009-02-01T14:19:00.001-05:00

Closeup of mower steering wheel complete with icicles.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 10

2009-02-01T14:11:00.002-05:00

I never did like this mower.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 9

2009-02-01T14:06:00.001-05:00

No mail today.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 8

2009-02-01T13:59:00.001-05:00

Jack likes snow.

Jack-In-The-Snow

2009-02-01T08:56:00.004-05:00

Jack is having a good time in my neighborhood's frozen meadow. The dull background sound is a neighbor's portable generator. A good portion of the neighborhood was without power after the ice storm struck. We were lucky and did not lose power. Repair crews from Indiana and North Carolina restored power late last night.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 7

2009-01-28T20:56:00.003-05:00

This is a table on my back porch.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 6

2009-01-28T20:51:00.003-05:00

No, that isn't a giant frozen mushroom.

Snow and Ice Slam Scott County, KY, Part 5

2009-01-28T20:37:00.002-05:00

Looking up my driveway. It is a sheet of ice.