Hiding In The Trees

Well... We're back from the depths and on form. A week of complete rest and care-free attitude followed by a holiday-weekend vacation was apparently just what the doctor ordered. Saturday we tested the legs with a 3-hour ride that went superbly, followed by a 1-hour trail run on Sunday which was equally strong. My training schedule has finally dovetailed back together with the master plan and, barring disaster, we should be good to go for the rest of season.

In other news, Friday night Liz and I went to see The Man, despite the pouring rain, flashing lightning and rumbling thunder. We managed to position ourselves under a pedestrian bridge to the upper levels of the amphitheater and stayed relatively dry all night, as one of the best DMB concerts of all time played out before our eyes (and ears, I suppose).

Saturday my mom joined us here in Niskayuna for a bathroom and office overhaul. While we were stripping wallpaper, sanding drywall and painting in earth tones, The (other) Man was rocketing his way along the opening stage of the 2005 Tour. For those interested in Vinciquerra Trivia, Liz and I met right about this time during the summer of 1999 at a lunch gathering at Faegan's. While she and all others at the table were deep in conversation, my attention was turned to the television hanging over the bar, as Lance was just setting out on what would be a 6-year domination of le Tour.

As I write this, Lance is riding what will be his last Tour, and very likely, his 7th consecutive win. Funny to think that this is where we started, and my desire to skip out on work that day for an hour to watch the tour at lunch time was what first brought us together.

So, for us Lance, make it lucky number 7 this year, will ya?