Tail of 2 Species

Supporting a 8 hour mountain bike racer and the stuck car

2010-07-29T19:42:00.000-07:00

GU, aka THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (dog) We were lucky enough to enjoy the BOGGS 8 hour mountain bike race. I didn't ride, but I did help support my mom as she pedaled by us each lap. CHOMPS and I had the toughest job of the day, protecting the food. We also rode a bit around base camp and walked some (Chomps and Cub even went for a run).

During the ride, we were at our full alertness, but we were tired from the drama the night before. All these people were surrounding our car, while it felt like we were teeter-totting back and forth. Finally and after some burning smells, we moved away from the people and settled down in the portable den for the night.

All in all, a great place for us to watch the race and enjoy the beautiful warm smells that flowed through the forest.

CUB, aka THE GREAT PANINI (person)
We were lucky enough to support Megan as she tried her first 8 hr mountain bike race. It was nice and hot (for the supporters), but crazy hot for the riders. I was getting the food ready and making sure she had a CAMELBAK filled and ready to go. GU and CHOMPS seemed to enjoy the venue. I think there job was to look cute and sleep. Every once in awhile they thought some other dog was gonna get their food, but most of the time they seemed content finding that perfect spot.

Now we were tired from the long drive up the night before and then the whole issue of me driving the Honda Element a little off the off-road and high centered the car. Luckily, a whole bunch of people camping in the surrounding area pushed and made a ramp for up to finally break free (dreading taking it back to the shop to see what the damage might be).

Great race venue and atmosphere (where else do 20 people come out of the woods to push a car come from). JIM NORTHEY puts on some fun races...wwww.globalbiorhythmevents.com/. Thanks again to all those who helped out.

New Mountain Bike Video.

2010-07-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

GU, aka THE GREAT CHIWEENIE
We were lucky to get this far into the bike ride. Megan was scared by the 2 rattlesnake sightings early on the ride. I was glad to be on higher ground. WHEW!!!

I was with Megan while CHOMPS was with CUB. Too bad Cub was slow, I overtook them as quick as Contador went by Schlek. I wonder if Cub dropped his chain.

CUB, aka THE GREAT PANINI (I like bread)
Glad we got this far on the ride. TWO rattlesnakes and one with a gopher in its mouth. I'm glad Megan was leading. WHEW!!!

The video has me filming Chomps and then you see Megan and GU ride by us. Look at GU give us the LOOK.

COMPUTERS...GRRRR!

2010-07-15T22:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts the past couple of weeks. We are experiencing some computer problems at home, and its been limiting our posts.

Most of the issues are solved and we'll be posting more late next week. We're off to cheer and support at BOGGS 8hr race this weekend.

NEW GAME should be ready soon...should be fun for young and old alike.

Adopt a Pet. Ride a Bike. SMILE.

WINNER for WHERE AM I? Contest 3

2010-07-08T21:48:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to DAVE L. and JEANNA for his correct guesses on the WHERE AM I? CONTEST #3. Send me an email with your address and what you want from our website.

We were at the 2009 Tour of California at the last stage in ESCONDIDO...thanks for all of those who attempted to figure it out.

Next week a new contest...great for young and old, but best for those with good observation skills.

AND we will be having a sale the http://shop.thegreatchiweenie.com/ next week. More details to come.

Gene Cerise Ride

2010-06-24T23:38:00.000-07:00

Hey! This Saturday there will be a ride starting in Cambria with all of the proceeds going to the local teen center. Country Coast Classic has different ride lengths and more info can be found at

http://sloymca.org/bikeride.htm

I'll be there helping out early with Megan...Cub has to work at the Cove, but wanted to tell people about the ride.

We need a winner...

2010-06-18T14:47:00.000-07:00

WE HAVE A WINNER!!! Updated JULY 8th.

We still haven't had a winner in the third WHERE AM I? contest. Here's another clue for those of you still trying to figure it out...

The day before this I was at Rose Bowl in Pasadena to watch the tour.

Other clues are posted on the MAY 18th entry.

2010-06-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

Bob gave a great answer to why he got started in sponsoring cycling.

What a Day!

2010-06-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

All footage taken on one day...nice negative tide at San Simeon Cove, atascadero critical mass and art show for bike month, and a great bike ride at Santa Margarita Lake.

Question Being Asked at the Tour of California

2010-06-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

TOUR of CALIFONIA video...coming soon!

2010-05-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

The software Cub downloaded to edit videos crashed on us...so we are still editing, but should have things posted in the next couple of days.

The Great Chiweenie ROCKS the TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

2010-05-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

I'm been following the Amgen's Tour of California with CHOMPS and Cub. We've been interviewing people throughout the week and will be slowing getting them up on this blog and our website. (Cub is having technical difficulties with the videos, but they will be up soon).

We have some small buttons that we will be handing out at the last 4 stages (Bakersfield, Big Bear, L.A, and Thousand Oaks)...find us and ask for one! (limited supplies)

WHERE AM I? : Contest 3

2010-05-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

WE HAVE A WINNER...Update JULY 8th.

WHERE AM I?
Every week we will be putting more of the original picture up with a hint posted below (and this messege). If you know where GU is, you can send an email to thegreatchiweenie@gmail.com or wait til its posted on our website and there will be an answer box for you to put your answer and email address (in case you WIN!!!). We will take the first 5 correct answers and randomly choose 1 to win. ONLY ONE (1) GUESS PER WEEK PER EMAIL ADDRESS.

PLEASE BE SPECIFIC! I know someone could say GU is on EARTH. And even though that is true, its not specific enough...

THIS WEEK'S CLUE...
Lance Armstrong was riding and Frank Schlek won the stage.

week 3:It was the first time the race had visited this county and I was unusually cold for that area.

week 2:I was at the finish line and only got to see the riders once on this day!

week 1 : I am at a major U.S. bike race (answer is not the name of the bike race...which city am I at?)

PRIZE...
Any one (1) product at our store (http://www.shop.thegreatchiweenie.com/).

CRUISIN'

2010-05-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

GU, aka THE GREAT CHIWEENIE

Chomps first real group ride. He looks to have figured out the positioning, but still doesn't understand how to move to the good smells yet.

CUB, human

Chomps first real group ride. GU went back with Megan's mom (with Megan) to keep her company while Chomps and I (and a few other riders) went through Hidden Valley. This was a ride we did often when I worked down here. Chomps seems good in the pack. Sometimes he feels like he is all the way out, but mostly b/c his body is longer than GU's.

CONTEST 2 - WHERE AM I? WINNER IS_____?

2010-05-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

We had 2 judges and they both choose the middle one...this means the winner of CONTEST 2 - WHERE AM I? is LISA.

The correct answer was MT. BAKER in WASHINGTON STATE.

Congrats to all those that got the correct answer! We will be posting some more videos hopefully tonight and all next week look for new blogs (hopefully daily).

THE OTTER!!! Sea Otter Bike Festival

2010-05-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

Sea Otter wore us out. We're too pooped to write much, but here goes.

Sea Otter is a festival of bikes and we always love the atmosphere...here are a couple of pics from the days there...(so much stuff, so little time)

This bike drew lots of looks...crazy light Cannondale FLASH.

Me (GU...the dog) looking at some cool sliding dropouts on the new SALSA MARIACHI...if I remember right.

Hardwood bikes...that's cool. All of them were pretty rad. The bike company was RENOVO.

One thing about bike racing is you get to hang out with the world's best without much hassle. Here are two superstars from TEAM LUNA CHIX ...

Georgia Gould...she won the short track and cross-country titles at this years SEA OTTER

Katrina Nash...top 10 in the cross-country (8th)

Its great when they don't mind getting their pictures taken with us.

Yes, this was the first time Chomps and I shared a pack. I don't know why he insists on looking the same way I look. He's kind of a copy-dog.

He needs his nails cut too... (CUB: If he gets his nails cut, so do you)

Here are some future women's stars...ALEXIS and KENDELL RYAN, and their dad (guy in background with helmet on) and Jeff.

New Sleeping Bag...it works!

2010-05-06T12:53:00.001-07:00

GU, the Great Chiweenie (DOG)
I love wind! Its one of the best things in the world.

I hate cold! Its one of the worst things in the world.

After a crazy night, with Megan and Cub being a little stressed. It was unusual that Megan was the one barking, and not Chomps or myself. But we were all ready for bed.

I love sleeping in the tent, but the ELEMENT would have to do. Cub wasn't gonna put up the tent in the wind and I think Megan and him like to sleep in the car every once in a while. I noticed right away that Cub got a new sleeping bag...SIERRA DESIGNS ARROW ROCK. Through the night, I got to test it out a bit, but the real test was the next day.

After riding sweep in the girls varsity race, I was pooped and cold. The new bag came in handy. I didn't move for over an hour. It just filled in all those cold pockets that weren't covered by my extra sugar. I would recommend it to any dog that needs a good place to lay his head.

CUB (PERSON)
Our first test of the bag was at Lake Arrowhead for the SOCAL high school mountain bike race #3. The wind was howling and the free camping was desolate. We rode earlier in the day with our team riders and went out to eat. The wind kept blowing while the temperature was dropping. After dinner, I pulled a little to far into the intersection and a car was coming, so I backed up a foot and we heard a honk from behind. I backed into them with my bike rack, but there wasn't a scratch.

Luckily, I kept my mouth shut and just took the verbal abuse from the non-drivers who were far from being sober, in more ways than one. Megan didn't, but luckily we drove away as one said it was okay. Then we were followed by them for a while, so I drove in directions that weren't where we were staying, but near businesses. Finally, they turned around and drove by us again, then went off into the darkness.

Relieved and tired, we pulled into the camping area...one car with a tent behind it and an RV. We tooked stuff out of the car so we could use the HONDA ELEMENT the way it was designed...combine the front and back seat (taking off the headrest) makes into a nice recliner bed. We stuffed the area between the seats and got into out sleeping bags. My new SIERRA DESIGN ARROW ROCK was now my first 3 season bag. I was joined by Chomps, while GU slept with Megan to start.

I slept well in the ELEMENT and ARROW ROCK...the only times I woke were to see if our stuff outside blew away or not. I was toasty warm and noticed the many features of the bag that I would probably never use, but could if needed (you can attach you bag to a sleeping pad so you don't slide off while asleep).

Luckily, the races went better than the night before. After the race was packed up, snow soon followed.

High School Mountain Bike League...Lake Arrowhead

2010-04-23T10:37:00.000-07:00

GU, aka THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (dog) Sleeping in the car is always fun. A big protected place to sleep with lots of warm blankets and portable down dens are fantastic. The wind blew all night, but I was comfortably hanging in the den. The next day, the weather started to get better....WIND!!!

Cub and I followed the girls varsity race and the weather was a little chilly, but perfectly windy. I stuck my head out and ears were a floppin'. It was one of the best rides of the year, but I was pooped. Time to get back into the car and check out those portable dens.

CUB (person)
Race #3 for the SOCAL Interscholastic Mountain Bike League. Lake Arrowhead was the destination. The wind was howling the day before and made our idea of sleeping in a tent not as pleasant. So we used our HONDA ELEMENT and its ability to make seats into long bed. We slept the night away. The family was comfortable in the warm blankets and sleeping bags.

Race day was even windier and the cold moisture was coming. Gu and I rode sweep for the girls varsity race. The course was great, but the wind at times felt like it was going to blow you off the hill. It doesn't help when the pup in the pack, GU, acts more like a kite than a missle. He turns toward the wind and those ears flop. He loves it. He must have been the only one. It wore him out, as it did the high schoolers, and he quickily got comfortable in the car.

TAIL OF THE TAPE

2010-04-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

PLEASE READ: Watch this video and judge which CHIWEENIE wins the bout. GU, aka "THE GREAT CHIWEENIE", or CHOMPS (pup with collar on). Each dog has a charity they are assigned to for this fight. GOTO http://www.guforit.com and click on TAIL OF THE TAPE and it will take you to a page to vote for your winner. Each VOTE will put 10 cents into the purse. Next MONDAY (April 26th) at NOON Pacific time we will tally the votes and the winner's charity will get 75% and the non-winner's charity will get 25%. The 2 charities are PETFINDER.com and TRIPS FOR KIDS Foundations.

last note: GU and Chomps love to play wrestle with each other so we hope you enjoy! IN NO WAY DO WE ENDORSE DOGFIGHTING...BUT WE DO ENDORSE PLAYTIME FOR ALL YOUNG PUPS (KIDS AND PETS ALIKE). Tell your friends. Tell your friends.

FIGHT FOR ________!!!!

2010-04-16T17:29:00.001-07:00

Check this page out on Monday of next week...We will be having a video we need your input on. For every input we get, we donate money to charity!!!

Last CLUE!!! We have 3 correct answers...only 2 more!

2010-04-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEKS CLUE...

I'm close to another country and North of Mt. St. Helens.

week 3: Whatever is behind me (GU), is considered active.

week 2: March 25, 2010 1:40 pm, the temperature is 33 degrees, with 0 inches of new snow the past 24 hours.

week 1: Cub thinks his grandfather would have been a great _____. Hmm. (remember: Cub is a person and his grandfather is not a chihuaua)

THE PRIZE...
Any one (1) book OR $10 off any product available on website.

GOOD LUCK!

ANOTHER CLUE...WHERE AM I?

2010-04-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEKS CLUE...

Whatever is behind me (GU), is considered active.

week 2: March 25, 2010 1:40 pm, the temperature is 33 degrees, with 0 inches of new snow the past 24 hours.

week 1: Cub thinks his grandfather would have been a great _____. Hmm. (remember: Cub is a person and his grandfather is not a chihuaua)

THE PRIZE...
Any one (1) book OR $10 off any product available on website.

GOOD LUCK!

A Busy Weekend...

2010-03-30T21:21:00.001-07:00

GU, THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (DOG)
Weekends are always busy...but having to drive a lifetime away to get to a bike race is tough on all of us. Cub and I got to ride with the Girls' Varsity race. I don't think Cub could keep up with them, but he tried. The wind was epic. Horses, Cow dung, and wildflowers were giving me a ride to remember. Too bad we had to finish.

Later that weekend we headed to the Poppy Reserve. YES, dogs are not allowed (I think they are specieist). The ranger let Chomps and I go as long as we stayed in the packs. I enjoyed it, but I think Chomps is struggling with this active lifestyle.

CUB (PERSON)
Weekends are always busy, but when I have to drive the 3 sleeping amigos (Megan, GU and CHOMPS) for 16+ hours in 3 days, I'm beat. Gu and I got to sweep the Girls' Varsity race at Warner Springs. GU loved it when I hated it. GU loved it when I loved it (downhills with tailwind). Good job all those who battled that wind.

Chomps seemed to be pooped and missed me and Gu. He climbed up on my shoulder so I wouldn't leave. The poppy reserve left him and the rest of us even more tired. The poppies were out and looking pretty good this year. NO DOGS allowed, but since we were traveling through and it was hot out, the ranger let us take them in our packs. They fear the dogs being bit by rattlesnakes.

More Clues to the Contest, Where am I?

2010-03-25T14:06:00.001-07:00

THIS WEEKS CLUE...

March 25, 2010 1:40 pm, the temperature is 33 degrees, with 0 inches of new snow the past 24 hours.

week 1: Cub thinks his grandfather would have been a great _____. Hmm. (remember: Cub is a person and his grandfather is not a chihuaua)

THE PRIZE...
Any one (1) book OR $10 off any product available on website.

GOOD LUCK!

Another Where Am I? Contest...YEAH!!!

2010-03-18T21:26:00.000-07:00

THE PRIZE...
Any one (1) book OR $10 off any product available on website.

GOOD LUCK!

TRYING SOMETHING NEW

2010-03-11T09:12:00.000-08:00

Comments on the video...we are trying to find a way to ride with both GU and CHOMPS if we had to. It won't be an everytime deal, but in case one of us (Megan or I) needed to get our bikes and the pups somewhere.

GU, the great chiweenie (dog)
This is more like it. WIND!!! Go faster!!! WIND!!! Yeah!!!

CUB (human)
I hate riding in the wind. Is Chomps okay back there? I can't see him very well..."Gu, is Chomps okay?". I don't know if I like this setup.

How GU rides in the backpack...

2010-03-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

CUB AND GU: We do not feel that everyone needs to ride with their dogs. We started b/c Megan and Cub went to cycling events and wanted to carry GU with them so he didn't get hurt (stepped on or ridden over). GU does not go on every ride we do, only the ones we feel we can keep all of us safe on. And if you see him ride, you know he loves it and is comfortable in the pack.

THE REAL DEAL

2010-03-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

GU, the great chiweenie (dog)
Who would have thought that something other than bike riding, eating or sleeping in the sun could be FUN!!! After about 3 weeks of getting to know my adopted brother, Chomps, he helped me realize what else is fun.

WRESTLING!!! Off the top rope and into the ring. I decide to keep my weight low to hold my ground. It appears that I'm always losing, but like any good wrestler I'm here to entertain the audience. I wait till the last second and then I win. Then we do it all again. We really are showdoggies.

CUB (person)
Who would have thought that GU could actually play like a real dog. In the world of everything is better if its real, GU needed Chomps to become real. He's not just a character in a book. He's not just the dog who really likes to bike ride. He now knows how to wrestle. (We heard he played with a dog once before we adopted him, but we thought it was a rumor).

WRESTLING!!! GU being the starter of the fight and sitting his sugary butt down to save energy. Chomps jumps off almost everything except the ceiling. They battle like no other. GU the entire time wagging his tail with enjoyment. Its better than anything on television (oh yeah, we don't have any t.v. channels). NOW GU is REAL!!!

***I (Cub) have been a little slow in getting the next contest up, please bear with me. Chomps has been a little more time consuming than I planned.***

The WINNER is __________!!!

2010-02-25T09:29:00.000-08:00

Cub (Human)

We gathered all the correct answers and wrote down the names on pieces of recycled cardboard. Placed them outside, equal distance from the corner of building and had a "cookie" on each one (Each cookie was equal in size...app.)

We sent out Chomps to choose...here's the results!!!

GU, the GREAT chiweenie

Why did you say GU in the video? Can't you recognize your own children?

The original picture was taken on the MISSOURI RIVER in MONTANA, near the town of FT. BENTON. THE MISSOURI BREAKS will be the trip our next picture book will be about...look for it later this year. Thanks to all that played and we will have the new "Where am I?" Contest up soon. Other people that got the answer correct were Diane, David, Sarah and Julie...GOOD JOB!!!

BIG BROTHER

2010-02-18T11:18:00.001-08:00

2 nights ago (CHOMPS is always stressed alert when awake - sitting in pic, GU is relaxed alert - laying in pic)

GU, THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (DOG)
Where's Chomps? He's not in his crate...he's not in the bathroom (run downstairs)...he's not in the kitchen...hmm, I smell food, WAIT!, where's Chomps?... (run upstairs and down the hall)...No Chomps here...back to the bedroom to tell CUB and MEGAN..."GU, what are you doing," Megan calls out. Cub sits up and lifts the covers off his upper body and then his legs. "Gu, Chomps is right here...don't step on him," Cub states. Sniff, sniff, sniff...Yep, that's Chomps (waggle, waggle, waggle). I saved the day! Back to sleep (Back to the armpit).

CUB, PERSON WITHOUT A NAME (PERSON, WE THINK)
(GU leaves the bedroom)..."What's he doing?" I ask Megan. "I don't know," Megan replies. (This is the second time he's left the room. Megan already went and got him from downstairs once.) "GU, what's wrong?",I ask. (Gu walks in. I lift the blankets off of me) Please don't step on him...I don't want to see the TIRED TIRADE. Chomps slightly acknowledges that its not as dark as it was with the covers on. GU sees Chomps and sniffs while wagging his tail. "AWWW!!!", in unison with Megan. I lay down and GU promptly finds his spot in the armpit. Megan says, "That's a good big brother!".

UPDATE:

WE ONLY NEED ONE MORE CORRECT ANSWER FOR THE "WHERE AM I?" CONTEST. Correct answer will be posted next week and the one (1) t-shirt winner will be announced. Look at old posts to help and the biggest hints are the 2 dogs SEAMAN and SHEP...find their stories and the correct answer should appear.

CONTEST UPDATE!!!

2010-02-10T20:45:00.000-08:00

3 people have guessed the right answer so far...We only need 2 more before we draw to see who gets the t-shirt...

Look at the other clues and pictures and do some research on SHEP and you can figure it out!

Welcome CHOMPS!

2010-02-10T20:35:00.000-08:00

First Impressions of our new chiweenie, CHOMPS

GU, THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (DOG)

1...Are my parents having a puppy affair? Who is that they're holding?

2...Beware of growling blankets!!!! And don't step on them!

3...He's not afraid of the evil monster WALL! He just jumps over it.

4...He is always talking.

CUB, PERSON WITHOUT A NAME (PERSON)

1...The house is not a bathroom.

2...When he sleeps, he's asleep...don't try to wake him

3...If there is food in the house, he will find it (and paper is not a food).

4...Don't be surprised to find him on window ledges, desks, or anyplace else you wouldn't look for GU.

Here's a video from our first ride with CHOMPS...

WHERE AM I??? The full picture.

2010-02-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

THE CONTEST...
Every week we will be putting more of the original picture up with a hint posted below (and this messege). If you know where GU is, you can send an email to thegreatchiweenie@gmail.com or wait til its posted on our website and there will be an answer box for you to put your answer and email address (in case you WIN!!!). We will take the first 5 correct answers and then randomly choose 1 to win. ONLY ONE (1) GUESS PER WEEK PER EMAIL ADDRESS.

PLEASE BE SPECIFIC! I know someone could say GU is on EARTH. And even though that is true its not specific enough...(there is more than one answer that we will accept for this week)

THIS WEEK's CLUE...
NEW CLUE: Shep is another famous dog that is well known here (remember we will accept more than one answer). Shep's story is sad, but a neat story.

(week 3)There is a trail named after these explorers (trail name will help you guess locations...look at picture for more help)

(week 2)Seaman's owners were famous explorers.

(week 1)Seaman and his owners traveled here.

THE PRIZE...
A GREAT CHIWEENIE T-SHIRT

GOOD LUCK!

We've had people guess the explorers and some come close, but not correct guesses yet.

2010-01-28T07:48:00.000-08:00

(week 2)Seaman's owners were famous explorers.

(week 1)Seaman and his owners traveled here.

THE PRIZE...
A Great Chiweenie T-shirt

GOOD LUCK!

We've had some good guesses, but no correct answers yet.

REMEMBERING LAST SUMMER

2010-01-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

SUMMER 2009 remembered (slightly)

picture above (Ray's Mountain Bike Park, Cleveland, OHIO... www.raysmtb.com ) GU, the Great Chiweenie (dog)
Great to get out of the warm rain. It was kind of scary to watch, but was great fun to see Megan drop onto the whoop's. I only rode a little bit, but the smells of the old building were amazing as they blew through the broken out windows. Rad day...too bad Cub had to just watch. Broken ribs from playing kick ball sidelined him most of summer.
CUB, person with animal name (human)
Main park was closed, but this was open and had quite a few of the locals jumping around with joy. Great place to spend the day, especially when the weather is bad. I think buildings like that would be condemned in California, but great use of space.

Pic on left (Milwaukee, Wisconsion)

Cub
Pretty bummed we were a day late to watch a race right on the street we were eating on.

GU
Why are you holding me over here??? The food is on the table over there...Cub got BACON!!! C'mon take me over there.

pic to right (Ashville, Ohio...Cub's bro's swimming pool)

CUB
Gu's first attempt at swimming (not wading in ocean). His body turns like a rudder on a boat and he doesn't seem to like it too much, or at all.

GU
"You guys hate me don't you." Please let me go over there in the sunny spot on the deck away from pool. Oh, yeah, dead bird smells. (Roll, roll, roll... a bath soon followed).

THE CONTEST 2nd CLUE

2010-01-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

THE CONTEST (week 2)...

Here is the second week clue and directions. If you know where GU is, you can send an email to thegreatchiweenie@gmail.com or wait til its posted on our website and there will be an answer box for you to put your answer and email address (in case you WIN!!!). We will take the first 5 correct answers and then randomly choose 1 to win. ONLY ONE (1) GUESS PER WEEK PER EMAIL ADDRESS.

PLEASE BE SPECIFIC! I know someone could say GU is on EARTH. And even though that is true, its not specific enough...(there is more than one answer that we will accept for this photo.)

THIS WEEK'S CLUE...

Seaman's owners were famous explorers.

THE PRIZE...

A Great Chiweenie T-shirt

GOOD LUCK!

WHERE AM I? THE CONTEST

2010-01-14T12:14:00.000-08:00

New Year...New Ideas

2010-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

GU, the great chiweenie - dog

This year, Cub and I will be trying to update our blog once a week (people week...not a dog week). A new contest will be posted SOON!!! And this blog will be the first to post the info...

Cub - person

Don't blame GU for the lack of posts last year, but this year the goal is to update the blog before THURSDAY night (west coast) every week. Our new contest will be posted here then the info will be on our website soon afterward. The contests will be for everyone to try.

Wounded Warriors

2009-10-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry, forgot the camera, but GU and I wanted to share a story that happened on our ride today.

Ride 2 Recovery (Wounded Warriors) were riding by Cambria today and headed to Pismo Beach for the night. We always love to join in with the riders that are traveling through our area. This ride had many amputee riders (riders missing a limb) and it was amazing to see. They rode in a double paceline, but the strong riders were encouraged to head to the back of the pack to push (yes push) the less strong riders to help them stay with the group. It was great to see. Of course, GU was a hit for most of the riders, many of them taking pictures or just getting a laugh.

After riding for a little bit we (GU and I) pulled up next to this nice gentleman. We started talking and he mentioned that one of the Shimano guys told him to throw away his SIDIs and wear this new pair of Shimanos. He was telling us he thought they were great, but probably needed to adjust them since his right foot fell asleep and his left was starting to. Everyone laughed while Gu and I looked over at the new shoes to see the gentleman was an amputee and didn't have a left foot. We enjoyed his sense of humor and hope they have a safe trip to LA.

Who takes care of who (whom?)?

2009-09-29T10:35:00.001-07:00

GU, the GREAT CHIWEENIE (dog)

(Saturday) Cub gets home and looks like someone punched him in the face a couple of times. He takes me out and then heads straight to the refillable flushing drinking bowl. He comes out and falls asleep. He wakes up and goes and sits by the refillable flushing drinking bowl, occasionally looking in (I think he was thinking of taking a drink).

He stumbles over to the foot of the bed and doesn't make it. His head is on the blankets and he keeps closing his eyes. I went over and did doggie first aid. Soon, he got up and made it to bed. Don't tell him, but he still looked like someone beat him up.

CUB, the sick rider (human)

It all started when I got stung in between the eyes by a bee thursday night on a downhill while we were riding our bikes. Saturday after the meet my eyes and face still swollen I had the shakes. I spent quite a bit of time in the bathroom. Sweat was pouring out of my body despite the shivering and chicken skin. After sitting by the toilet for almost an hour, thinking I was going to see lunch again, I tried to make it back to bed.

I don't remember what happened except I was laying on the floor at the foot of the bed and every time I wanted to close my eyes GU would lick my whole face. After about an hour of this process, I started to feel better and made it to bed. By 9pm I was feeling alive, not great, but enough to watch some shows on the internet.

OUT OF JAIL

2009-09-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

Gu hurt his leg jumping out of the Honda Element and has to stay in the bedroom for a while (no stairs, jumps, or high speed chases). Inside their heads, this is what we were thinking during these 12 seconds...

CUB "the other rider" (person)

I hope Gu realizes he'll have to stay in here till his knee gets better. Poor GU.

GU "the Great Chiweenie" (dog)

Cub, Cub, CUB, CUB!!!! We can break out of here. Let's go. Oh no! I smell chicken. Let's go. Let's GO. LET'S GO!!! Jail can't hold the both of us. C'mon let's go. CUB. CUB. PLEASE. I can smell dinner. I'm gonna starve in here. Look at me, I'm emaciated. CUB! The Guard is coming.

Mountain Bike Nationals here I come!

2009-09-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

GU, the Great Chiweenie (dog)
The ride to the race was longer than usual, but the place we got to place our den was perfect. Up on a hill with a bunch of other dogs and their rider companions. Cub was nursing his broken ribs from playing kickball and Megan was getting ready for her 2 races, cross-country and super D.

Cub and I cruised around cheering and meeting new people around every turn. I cheered loudest for Megan and she looked to be riding pretty fast. We even got the chance to try our first pump track...I think I should have tried with Megan first, but Cub was starting to be able to hold his ground with those 5 and 6 year olds.

I was pooped. Riding around and being up for most of the daylight hours was tough. I even met some guy who was trying to be stylish like me, with his red sunglasses, and another guy who just won the short track that seemed to like getting his picture taken.

Cub, the other rider (person)
Driving to Colorado for a couple of races is always tough, but sitting in the car with broken ribs made it even tougher. Megan wanted to race the Sport Cross-country race and the Open (non-pro) Super D before we headed for more summer adventures. Camping was crazy packed on a hill above the main starting area. We were lucky to even find a spot in the high grasses on a pretty steep slope.

Megan raced great, with a 3rd in the Cross-country and 2nd in the Super D. Gu, as always, whined every time he saw her coming or going. While waiting for one of Megan's award podiums, we went over to try to pump track (small area that you should be able to use your momentum to get you over the small bumps). I wasn't very good at it. Most of the children around were way better than me.

On our last day, we watched the PRO short track races. They are fun because you can see most of the course and it doesn't take long. After the race, we asked some of the riders if we could get a pic with GU and them. JHK and Adam Craig were happy to cooperate. Too bad I almost missed getting GU in the shot with JHK.

I COULD HAVE DONE MORE.

2009-09-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

INTERVIEWS WITH CUB AND GU (SAME QUESTIONS, BUT ASKED WHEN THEY WERE AWAY FROM EACH OTHER).

Question 1: You finished 3 laps in the 8 hour mountain bike race and you still had 3.5 hours left, why did you quit there?

GU (dog) - I could have done more, but Cub's steering in between the tree wasn't going too well. At one point he tried to run me into a tree, but luckily I moved to the other side. I think he decided that the trail was too hard for him.

CUB (person) - I could have done more, but GU kept moving the wrong directions to catch new smells right when there were trees lining the trails. We were on a technical swoopy trail that my handlebars barely fit between the tree and then he switched and ran me right into a tree. I think he was tired, so I decided we should be done.

Question 2: You stayed to watch the 24 hour race as well, what was your most memorable moment for the weekend?

GU (dog) - Dinner. (thanks Jim Northey)

CUB (person) - After seeing the legendary Tinker Juarez finish, we rode by his RV and introduced ourselves to him, his family and mechanic. He was lifting his son for a picture with GU and he had to hold him up for about 5 minutes. Tinker then said, "I'm a little tired here." Maybe it wasn't the best time to have him pose for pics...he did just ride for 24 hours and rode way over 200 miles.

THE OTTER 2009: Cyclists, Bike Riders, Cheerleaders and Legends all in one.

2009-05-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

JUST A FEW PHOTOS FROM SEA OTTER. SORRY FOR THE DELAY (FAMILY EMERGENCY).

Pua Sawiki - endurance mtb champion

Mountain bike hall-of-famers:

Ned Overend and Greg Herbold

Below are the GT Cheerleaders

THE COOLEST 24 IN 24 WORDS

2009-05-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

GU - THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (dog)

Rain. Hard rain. GO Cub. Don't take me. YES. Rain. Sleep in warm tent. CUB. MORE Rain. Pizza! Harder Rain. Is that CUB? DONE.

Quote of day
"Don't put me down in the mud. You might not see me again."
CUB - RIDER WITHOUT A NAME (person)

Rain. Fun mud. Rain. Not fun mud. Creek pulls me in. Grips float down stream. Creek pulls me in. Warmer. HARD RAIN. I'm done.

Quote of day
"There's puddles so big they have puddles of their own."

THE COOLEST 24 was a great race that raised money for the DREAM FOUNDATION this year. Thanks to all those out there cheering and to my support crew.

I finished 8 laps before sunrise (app. 99.2 miles and over 14,ooo ft of climbing) and didn't feel that it was safe to take GU out on any of the laps. He was thankful for that.

*** The race was shortened to 22 hours due to the weather forecast and safety of the riders and my fenders made me look clean compared to other riders. GOOD CALL TYLER!

THE WILDFLOWER RIDE

2009-04-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

(Cub) Both Gu and I decided to write about yesterdays mountain bike ride even though we had a great time this past weekend at the Redlands Rotary Ride, Redlands Classic and LA Circuit Race. Today's blog was written as if it was happening to us at the moment (Gu thought it had more creative flair from that perspective).

Setting the stage: April 1st, 2009. A short ride up Cypress Mountain Road to show Megan the wildflowers that Cub saw the day before on his long ride through the beautiful hills between us and Paso Robles/Templeton. After riding up and down we decided to take riding photos and some off the bike...

CUB ... Rider without a Name (Human)

"This is the spot," Megan says "Can't you see the red flower."

"I know this is the spot, but I can't find the flower," I reply.

Megan takes Gu out of the pack and she is slowly moving up the hill with Gu. She's stopping near the red flower.

"Megan can you move a bit so I can get a better shot of Gu and the flower, " I say.

Megan is moving a bit to the left and Gu spots something. Boy he gets scared easy. Its probably a small bug or something.

Click. Click. Zooming in. Click.

"What do you want GU?" Megan says. "Cub I don't know what he wants."

"Boy he's cute though," I say. "Okay, that's probably enough pics for today." Climbing up the small hill.

Megan picks GU up...
GU...The GREAT Chiweenie (DOG)

What's that noise I hear. I guess I can take a closer look. WHOA!!! That's a snake. That's a SNAKE.

"MOM. MOMMMMM!!!" I say. "Don't you see the snake? It's goin' to eat me. Can't they open their mouths 3 times the size of their head? If that's true, he could eat me."

Megan's not paying attention to my pleas. I guess I have to meerkat to show I'm serious. WHAT? Your still not picking me up.

CUB. Quit taking pictures and come get me. PLEASE!!!!

YES. Cub's walking up the hill. "Okay, that's probably enough pics for today," he says.

"SNAKE," Megan finally says. Pick me up. Yes. She does. "It's right there", she says.

"Where?" Cub says.

"There," she says, "Let's go."

Put me down I'll get us out of here. I'm going to run out of here as fast as I can.

WHAT A DAY! THE BIRTHDAY RIDE.

2009-03-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

GU "THE GREAT CHIWEENIE" (DOG)

We went for a ride and stopped at one of my favorite spots (Sebastian's near Hearst Castle). I know Cub went off on his birthday ride with a group of people we know. Megan and I decided to work the lunch detail. My job was to be a good watchdog and protect the sandwiches.

Megan drove and I continued to do my job (and doing it well, I think.). I hate curvy roads. I try to grip onto the seat, but each turn is a full body workout. I've never fallen off the seat, but didn't want today to be a first.

We finally see riders, but no Cub yet. They all looked really cold and beat. We checked on everyone and finally saw Cub cruising behind Big Tom at the bottom of the hill. He seemed cold, but pretty comfortable.

Then it was time for my job to end and Megan pulled out the lunches. Everyone gathered around the heater and munched on their food. I could see happiness on their pained faces at that point (and maybe only at that point). I wanted cake, but I think it was chocolate...DRATS.

The ride home was slow with stops to check on the pack. Tyler opted for the metric century, so he was hanging with us in the car. On the way back to drop him off, we saw one of the riders getting picked up early (not the century or the metric century). He tried to hide his face, but I know who it was (not to mention any names...).

Cub finally made it home with a smile on his face as he finished his lunch off with a little help from me!

CUB "RIDER WITHOUT A NAME" (PERSON WITH A BIRTHDAY)

My birthday ride was a century from Cambria to the top of Nacimiento (no clue how to spell it) and back. Approximately 100 miles with 0ver 8000 feet of climbing. I decided to ride with Tyler, Big Tom and Jim. We kept a constant pace all the way til the 2700 foot climb (half-way mark).

We didn't see much of the pack that we started with or the others who opted for the 55 mile version from Ragged Point, but the ride was beautiful. Not a sunny day, or even a very warm day, but its still Southern Big Sur coast at its best.

We started to see the other riders as they were going downhill. "Don't hang out at the top, its freezing up there," one of the Mike's said as he cruised past us on his way down. One by one, out of the fog another rider would go by.

Tyler had bike issues on the way up and Big Tom flatted on the way down, but we weren't in a hurry. I had given Megan a time frame and we were still on pace to eat lunch at Sand Dollar.

By the time we got to lunch, most of the riders were already done eating and gathering around a fire built in one of the camping grills. The few blankets from the car around some of the riders helped warm the bodies that still needed to ride 40 more miles.

The ride back was quick except for the grinding noises coming from my bike. I stopped before the major downhills to try to figure it out or at least to ease my mind. Descending the hills in Big Sur don't leave much room for error, human or mechanical.

Back at home, Gu and Megan greeted me in their own way. Man that sandwich tasted good.

Thanks to all who came and took part.

WHAT'S MINE IS YOURS...ONLY IF I SAY SO

2009-03-13T15:16:00.000-07:00

GU - THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (DOG)

"What's mine is yours," I told Cub by placing my chew bone by his foot. He seemed stressed out looking for all the stuff he needs for tax time. He thanked me for my willingness to share, "thanks Gu, but no thanks. You can keep chewing on it."

While Cub has been battling with his own demons, I've been working hard to hold my ground on the local turf wars. There has been a BIG older dog that has been trying to work me over and take the pavement and bushes that were by all means, MINE!

I've been drinking water by the tub and eating everything I can, just for that opportunity to go outside and mark my land. I even speak my mind when I hear the BULLY outside trying to take my bushes and poles.

Cub lets me out almost every time I speak. "Well, let's go see what's out there," he would say and I would rush down the stairs and out the door. I'd look down the drive and one time we had a showdown. I think I scared him off for good...we'll see.

CUB - THE RIDER WITHOUT A NAME (PERSON)

What's mine is now my endless search for receipts for the tax man. It has been stressing me out. I think even GU could see my frustration as I looked through all the piles of papers in the house. He probably thought I was sniffing around for food as I was down on all fours scouring through the piles.

I felt a quick soft touch on the back of my leg, so I looked over. Gu dropped his yellow chew bone at my feet and even though I appreciated the gesture, I really didn't want it, "thanks Gu, but no thanks. You can keep chewing on it." He then proceeded to chew the bone for the next hour.

Other than that, Gu has been the other species on a mission. I think he was purposely drinking as much water as he could, just so he could mark his territory outside. Our neighbors 3 doors down were around for the week and their little dog seemed to like Gu's favorite pee spots. And somehow, Gu has been pooping 4 times a day vs. the normal 2.

They did have a standoff the other day. Gu rarely barks, but does when he feels his territory is being approached on. He won't stop barking until I let him out to prove the scary threats are long gone. But ONCE, the small neighborly dog was sitting on the long drive. Gu stared. The other dog stared back. GU GROWLED. THE OTHER DOG GROWLED BACK. Gu ran back inside the house. I don't think he'll be back out there any time soon.

Are you Kidding me?

2009-03-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

GU, the Great Chiweenie (dog - we think)

...I look at Cub, "why are you waking me?" Stretching my legs and elongating my back I put my head back down and go back to sleep.

CUB, the rider without a name (human - we think)

..."are you kidding me?" as I'm awoken by this loud vibrating noise. HHHHAWWWWGGGGG! I didn't know GU could pig call like that. HHHHAWWWGGGGGGGG! "GU!" I say quietly, trying not to wake Megan (how did she sleep through it I don't know) as I lightly touch GU's chest.

He wakes up and lifts his head off my pillow and gives me THE LOOK, more stern than Lance Armstrong to Jan Ullrich. He proceeds to stretch and lays his head back down and was snoring again before I could close my eyes.

CRASH AND BLEED!

2009-03-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

GU, THE GREAT CHIWEENIE (DOG)

It was the normal wait. Cub reading as I sit patiently looking down the drive. There she is...she's home. I get a little excited and shout with glee.

I stay on Cub's lap (in the little camping chair) and when I hear the parking brake I jump away to greet Megan. My back legs clipped Cub's hands and 4 feet away I land face first.

Its a little fuzzy what happened next, but then I did my job and greeted Megan with all my heart.

My wip is a wittel swoyen now!

CUB, A RIDER WITHOUT A NAME (PERSON)

It was the normal wait. Gu sitting somewhat patiently looking down the drive and me reading a comic book. We see Megan's car and Gu can't control his excitement, wagging his tail and whining as only Gu can do.

He stays on my lap as she drove all the way down the drive and engaged the parking brake and he was off. Whack! Face plant onto the driveway. He stood up and tongue was going in and out while he looked stunned.

When he saw Megan he still tried to show all his excitement and within 2 minutes he was full Goobie dog excited.

We watched him and wouldn't let him sleep for a while, but the only thing we could see was a little blood on his chew toy, so that was taken away. For a little bit, a soft-food diet.

He seems fine today!

INTERVIEW WITH THE GREAT CHIWEENIE AT PASO ROBLES

2009-02-26T12:53:00.001-08:00

http://abclocal.go.com/kfsn/story?section=news/sports&id=6668411

Watch the whole thing because Gu is interviewed towards the end of the segment.

2009-02-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

LANCE ARMSTRONG, LEVI LEIPHEIMER AND THE GREAT CHIWEENIE BRAVE THE WINTER WEATHER AT THE 2009 TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

GU "the Great Chiweenie" (DOG)

Nine weeks is a long time to go without my normal 12 hour naps, but the Tour of California was here and we were there to see the best riders in the world race in my backyard. The first week was chillier than I prefer, but seeing rider after rider fly by was cool. I dozed off a bit, but I think I smelled Lance go by.

Weeks 2 and 3 blended together into a soggy mess. The only thing I could see was water droplets on my lenses. The riding was fun, when we got the chance because the smells were great, but standing around was no fun at all. I got to meet Bjarne Riis (Saxobank director and former rider). He looked confused when Cub said, “can I get a picture with you an my dog.” Doesn't everyone want a picture with famous people and their dog? Riis did seem to enjoy my sunglasses and tried to trade with his, but I stared him down to let him know whose the boss.

Weeks 4 and 5 flew by without Megan and then the rain came again, but Cub was quick to get out of the downpours and under shelters. We didn't get to ride much these days, but Cub eats better junk food without Megan.

Weeks 6 and 7 they were in our area of the state (Central Coast). The sun was out and I was happy. I even ran with Megan beside Levi seven seconds.

Weeks 8 and 9 were warm and cloudy. I was upset to here one of my favorite riders say with an unusual accent, “that's not a dog!” as Cub took a picture of us. We did get to ride a bit more the last couple of weeks. And we got away from the crowds and enjoyed watching the finishes for once.

I'm glad to be home.

CUB "rider without a name" (Person)

Nine days is a long time to follow a bike race, but the Tour of California was here again for the fourth time. The first day showed that the crowds would be out in full force to see Lance and all of the world's best riders.

Days 2 and 3 were stormy. Gu didn't seem the happiest, but when we rode he still stood up to get the smells. We even got to meet Bjarne Riis after the stage in Santa Cruz. He was confused when I asked him, “can I get a picture with you and my dog.” But the confusion went away when he saw Gu with his sunglasses. At the end of both days, we would take Gu out of the pack and he would feel like a portable heater (he does where a wool sweater with his jersey over top in cold weather).

Days 4 and 5 were long and hard without Megan. I drove her home and went back up to Modesto. Gu was tired and slept pretty good in the car. We avoided the rain and had one really nice day in the Fresno area.

Days 6 and 7 were close to home and I enjoyed sleeping in my bed. Gu seemed to agree. The sun was out and Megan and Gu even ran beside Levi in the time trial for less than a second.

Days 8 and 9 were packed with people. Jens Voight (sorry if I spelled it wrong) was nice enough to get a pic with Megan and “that's not a dog”, Gu., as he rode to sign in to the last days stage. Rabobank was nice to let us (really GU and since we were with him, Megan and me) into their tent area near the finish. There was nice people, good food and a great spot to actually watch the race finish.

FUN FACT

Cub gained 3% of his body weight. Gu lost 4% of his body weight during the week.

Podium girls, rainy days, smelly cars and oh yeah TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

2009-02-19T21:49:00.000-08:00

HIGHLIGHTS (and LOWLIGHTS) SO FAR:

BEST things so far (as of THURSDAY of the Tour of California)

GU
1. SLEEPING IN THE SUN AND WARMTH.
2. Fancy dog treats and Cub dropping tri-tip.
3. Riding down the empty streets with the wind in my face.
4. Being kissed by the Podium Girls.
5. SMELLY CAR after the rainy days.

CUB
1. SUN AND WARMTH RETURNS (the cloud burst was cool though).
2. Seeing lots of people excited about bike racing.
3. Seeing lots of great riders race in America.
4. Talking to new and old faces alike(not age, but how long I've known them).
5. Riding my bike.

WORST things so far (as of THURSDAY of the Tour of California)

GU
1. COLD and when sitting still, the rain.
2. No 12 hour naps.
3. Not meeting LANCE or the other riders I like.
4. Getting woken up by a mean fan.
5. Not getting to ride as much as I want to.

CUB
1. COLD and the rain.
2. People being rude to each other.
3. Not getting to ride as much I want to.
4. SMELLY CAR after the rain.
5. DRIVING too much.

See us on CBS 5 in San Francisco

2009-02-16T22:37:00.000-08:00

GU and CUB

At home. Needed to drop off Megan so she can go teach for a couple of days. It will be the just the 2 of us the next 2 days.

We made the news. We are there more than once...so check it out!!!

http://cbs5.com/video/?id=46228@kpix.dayport.com

We also have started a fan site for THE GREAT CHIWEENIE on FACEBOOK...here is the link:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/The-Great-Chiweenie/122206730050?ref=nf

Time to tell both sides of the story.

2009-02-12T23:41:00.000-08:00

Hey! I'm Gu, a.k.a. “the Great Chiweenie”. Most people have a hard time figuring out why I'm a Chiweenie, but it's easy to explain. A Chiweenie is half-dachshund and half-chihuahua. I'm sharing this blog with Cub, my adopted father. He said he wanted to get his side of the story out there, not just mine. Neither of us are the best at grammar or spelling, so please forgive any and all errors. Hope you enjoy! ADOPT A PET. RIDE A BIKE. SMILE.

thegreatchiweenie.com

GU “The Great Chiweenie” -

Weeks with my family can be busy, traveling to different places usually to go for a ride. The past two weeks was no different. We (Megan, Cub, and I) went to two charity rides that were going to have some cycling stars attending. The first week was cold and threatening rain. I wanted to stay in bed, but the money raised was going to local families.

A grouping of riders that looked like skeletons were hanging out with crowds forming around them. Cub and Megan got excited and wanted to take pics of me and some of them. The first guy was tall and slim, and didn't realize I was on Cub's back. Then he turned to look and slightly jumped by surprise, I'm pretty sure it was my lazy eye and my morning breath that startled him. The other guy spoke kind of funny, but I had met him during the 2008 Tour of Missouri (seems like years ago). The ride itself was fun. We met quite of few female riders. I'm pretty sure they thought I was cute. We hung with the group until the air left Cub's tire and then we chased.

Luckily, there was food. Good food. Really good food, but then we rushed away to try to stay with one of the groups. Then the worst thing happened, Cub lost Megan. She was right behind us, then when we stopped to wait, she never showed up. I told Cub we'd find her, but he was panicky. After looking for her for hours, we finally found her, of course, where the food was at the end of the ride.

Now the second week was different. The day was clearer, but still cold. We convinced Megan's brother and mom to go with us, since we were down there for their birthdays. The ride was nice and slow, with good smells as we rode out of the town. I kept telling Cub to go faster, but he kept going at his pace.

Towards the end of the 25 mile ride, some of the riders doing the longer route were passing us. One group went by and giggled, I looked around, but couldn't figure out what they were laughing at. Cub asked if he could go with them and Meg said “Go!”. Cub stood up and quickly caught onto the group. I was hungry and ready for the ride to be done. The group had a female we had met the day before and the ride was at a nice friendly pace that brought enough wind to make my ears go up. BUT, there was some hairy chinned guy whose bike was making noises. WHAP, WHAP, WHAP, over and over again. It was annoying and disturbing my concentration on the increased wind in my face. We rode on and then we ate. Afterwards, we went back to Nana's and ate even more, STEAK!!! All was well.

CUB “The Rider without a Name” -

Weekends are great. Going out for longer rides and usually traveling to races or charity rides is always fun. This past weekend was no different. We (Megan, GU, and I) went to two charity rides that were going to have some professional rides. Saturday we went to Avila and rode the Pedal to Pier with Team Columbia. I always like when rides benefit local organizations and families.

It was chilly and I thought it was going to rain, but we were pretty lucky during the ride. Before the ride some of the Columbia riders in their new yellow, white and black kits were hanging out. People asking for their autographs or to take their picture. We were no different. Megan got out the camera and we went right towards George Hincapie. I turned my back so GU could be in the shot and many other cameras were going off. We then went over to see Micheal Rogers. I met him briefly at the end of the 2008 Tour of Missouri, when Mark Cavendish wanted to take a picture of GU. It was after the award ceremony, he stopped their team car and asked for us to come over. Rogers was in the back seat and I shook his hand and introduced myself (actually I introduced GU and might have mentioned my name).

The ride itself started nice and easy. Some of Columbia's womens team were riding around us and laughing at the Goober (one of GU's nicknames) and asked Megan questions about him. We were going to shorten the ride because I had a job interview, but looked at Megan and GU and realized the pace was perfect with the highway patrol giving us a rolling closure. “We gotta do the long ride!” Megan agreed until the flat tire. We tried to hurry, because there really was no group after the front pack, just a few spread here and there.

At the food stop, we just missed the second group heading out, with Hincapie and Rogers. Megan told me to try to catch them, but it was not going to happen. I tried for miles, but wasn't close enough to get the rolling closure. Finally, after Morro Bay, I stopped and decided to wait for Megan. GU was getting whiny as he always does when he can't find her. We waited, waited and waited some more. Then I asked one of the riders if he'd seen her and he said, “we haven't passed anyone since Cayucos.” So GU and I took off and rode a majority of the ride by ourselves. Luckily the rain held off until after we were done, because then it poured.

Now the second day was different. Not too warm, but no rain. GU didn't seem happy with the weather conditions. He likes the heat with wind. We were heading down to Thousand Oaks to celebrate Megan's mom and brother's birthday and convinced them to ride the Breakaway from Cancer ride at Amgen. We rode with them almost the entire time. I think we were some of the last riders on the short route. GU was a little whiny when Megan gave him to me to carry. He quieted down when the wind and smells increased, but completely stopped whining when we rode fast.

It just happened to happen that some of the long route riders passed us on the final couple of miles, so I jumped to ride the rest with them. Kim Anderson from Team Columbia's women's team, who we had met the day before, was with the group as was most of the Amgen's Masters Team. But the guy they were all surrounding was Bob Roll. WHAP, WHAP, WHAP. His tire was flat and he kept riding with it. I asked the guy next to me “how long has he been riding with the flat?” and the guy said, “three or four miles.” Rolling over the last few hills he still seemed in total control as his rim was now against the road. We rolled in as the announcer (who by the way sang a great national anthem) welcomed us home. Then it was time to eat and I'm pretty sure GU agreed.