Belgian Toothpaste

Weather iffy for today, but any chance to roll outside would be taken. A rude winter recalibrates your concept of pretty "nice" conditions: 50, wet, windy as hell, sand and salt -- a wonderful spring day compared to recent weeks.

Many reasons to roll aside from simple opportunity, Langland and my January Birthdays and getting the Phreds together after a long hiatus. Throw in a post ride KU hoops game with libations with the boys and this is a stellar afternoon.

Sliding outta the parking lot on up Renner to the park is always a gut punch to start a ride, esp w/ ridiculous south winds in your face but damn it feels good to spin it up. Dutcher shows up and we are wearing the exact, and I mean exact, kit details, only our respective team colors. I shouldn't be surprised.

Unpleasant drafting with a stream of back wheel slop hitting your face, or maybe grin and bear it. This must be like a Belgian Spring Classic, faces caked in mud, sand, and salt; streams that line your bike on up your back side, and caking your shoes. These are the hard man rides that lay the foundation for those blissful warm summer nights.

Feeling good, putting in miles, stretching out the sticks, and taking a couple digs. Seems like an eternity.

Collaboration is Here

http://kcbeerblog.blogspot.com/2010/01/evening-with-steven-and-jean-marie-part.html

Not a huge fan of Pilsners either, but this compelling. I met Rock at BLVD during collaboration week and he was quite engaging. Can't wait to sample this.

I Rode Outside Today

Holy Cow! Sun and ridable roads never seemed so sweet. The 20 year winter from hell has taken its toll. Sandwiched between an analysis of the deficiencies of Chicago economic theory (Efficient Markets -- even the name seems quaint and seriously amusing at this point) -- and a bout with Wakarusa Lager (also seemingly contradictory sweet dark lager with a bright bitter Styrian Hopps finish), the road was bliss.