whereintheworldisdaveoleary

Hoboken

2010-05-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, well Hoboken is in the books. It was a gnarly day on the bike, but i made it out in one piece. The course was pretty darn flat, we did 3 big laps which were 50 km, and 4 small laps that were 9 km, making for a 190 km race. It was an hour and a half drive to the race, we all piled in the sprinter, and we were on our way. I kept the boys entertained by bringing my 20 questions toy (courtesy of natalie), and we were easily entertained, dropping our jaws in awe as it guessed all of our wild things we thought up, for example, socks, forklift, chapstick etc...

We got to the race, went to the bathroom, had a quick meeting, all the essentials for pre race, and then headed to the start line. The sky was toying with us greatly, the clouds looked ominous, and i tried to be optimistic, but we all knew it was going to downpour, the question was when. The competition for today's race looked tough. Among the start list, were a few pro continental teams, with teams that had participated in Paris Roubaix, and Flanders (the pro races).

Hoboken started out super sketchy, and stayed that way the entire race. As the race started i felt a bit of pain behind my left knee, near my hamstring, and the sensation never left, but got worse as the day went on.

On the first big lap, there was a pretty gnarly crash, with two U.S riders among the carnage (Jacob Rathe, Travis Brandt). I felt lucky to have missed it, literally two riders more to the left and i would have been among it. Travis was down for the count, Rathe made it back to the peleton. Oh did i mention by this point the rain had started? well yup it was comin down. Oh another thing i didnt mention, it hadnt rained in Hoboken for a few weeks, which means all the oil came to the surface of the road. The roads were literally like ice. Every turn people were going down. The adrenaline rush was off the hook!

The race progressed, with 2 other U.S riders crashing in two seperate crashes (Charlie Avis, Christian Perret). Gavin pulled out, he has been sick. At this point in the race, about 100 km in, we were down to 4 americans. One the last big lap of the race, so at about 110 km, the rain really started to come down, i could not see a thing. I had some really close calls, some i dont know how i stayed on my bike. The small local laps were hard, with many cobbles. Other than my throbbing pain behind my knee, I felt great. My power on the flats is really coming around. There was a group off the front of about 14 guys, then my group, which had the 4 remaining US riders in it. It was a long day on the bike, about 4.5 hrs, and i have another race tomorrow to look forward too. Should be loads of fun. Love you guys, hope you have a wonderful day. Thanks for everything all you guys do for me. Driving back i couldnt stop thinkin about how fortunate and blessed i am. Why me? I dont need anything than i have to be happy. Love you all, have a great remainder of your weekend.

Here I go Again

2010-04-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well 2009 turned into 2010 and it has been a while since I have updated my adventures. Since the last post there have been other journeys including a trip to Yellowstone, multiple trips to Island Park (where we are now the proud owners of a waterfront lot), and our annual February pilgramage to Phoenix to the Valley of the Sun Stage Race, but the real fun is just beginning. On May 10th I will leave my lovely, devoted wife who will be helping Katie care for our new grandson and wing my way to Belgium again. Connor is already there racing for the US National U23 Team and I will hook up with him and we will drive, bike and eat our way from Belgium to other places in Europe. Depending on his race schedule we may be in Luxembourg and Italy or he may end up doing the Tour of Berlin which would take us a different direction. Regardless we will drive, ride and eat our way around Europe for a couple of weeks. I will make every effort to post regularly mostly just to make you jealous of the places we are seeing and the the food we are eating.. More later - Tchau.

Fishing During the Summer of Fun

2009-08-15T10:44:00.001-07:00

The summer of fun continues. With the kind permission of Shirley and Grant Macfarlane, my neighbor friends (Joe Checchio, Gordy Evans and Jerry Carter) and I spent the day on Blue Lake on Shirley's property east of Coalville on Chalk Creek. The day was beautiful and the fishing was incredible. We had a hint the fishing would be great as Joe and I had fished it the day before. Anyway, it was an incredible day, with lots of beautiful brook and cutthroat trout landed by all. About 3:00 PM we drove down to Chalk Creek in time for an afternoon thunderstorm and fishing in the creek. On the way to the creek we encounted this young bull moose and were told that earlier in the day a bear had been seen. There were lots of cuttroat trout in the creek and they devoured grasshopper flies.

Beard Removal Continuted

2009-08-08T18:51:00.000-07:00

Note, I also lost the earring and tattoos.

The Many Phases of Beard Removal

2009-08-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

It only seemed fitting that since I did not shave while on my Journey of Discovery, that I post the process by which the resulting hair growth was removed. It is hard to believe I could have this much fun shaving.

Home at Last

2009-08-06T19:29:00.000-07:00

Bend was HOT in fact record heat. The racing was really hard and Connor did well in his last real races as a Jr. I had the chance to ride a bit, one day Winston Hawkins even rode with me. I also had a chance to fish and donate blood at the same time (I forgot mosquito spray). Following the Criterium on Sunday, we got in the View and made our way south through Oregon, Idaho and Utah arriving at about 1:00 AM on Monday morning. It is hard to believe I was gone for almost 4 weeks because as soon as we walked in the house it is almost like I never left. Regardless, I had the time of my life and I can honestly recommend that everyone do a walkabout, sabbatical or whatever you want to call it (in my case, Where in the World it Dave O’Leary). Its good to be home, but I already am thinking about all the other places I have yet to see.

Photo Notes - The day I left and the day I returned. Anytime you can go without shaving for nearly 4 weeks you do so. The earring is a prop and along with the beard will disappear this Saturday.

“Saturday in the Park” (trailer park) – Day 22

2009-08-01T08:26:00.001-07:00

Well it’s Saturday August 1st. We are in beautiful Bend, Oregon at the US National Cycling Championships. Getting here was a little bit of a driving marathon. But with the exception of running out of fuel once and a little vehicle trouble out of Fargo, ND we made the journey unscathed, except for a few million bugs who sacrificed their lives top decorate the front of the view with myriad colors of guts. Regarding the running out of fuel, let me say how grateful we are for small miracles. It happened in Oregon, and fortunately we were able to coast into a closed truck weigh station, that took us out of harms way. A few minutes after stopping two women pulled in and were kind enough to take me to and from a gas station about 8 miles away and we were back on the road again in less than an hour.

Bend is a former lumber town, now tourist destination with the beautiful Deschutes River winding through the center of the city. It is HOT, in fact record setting heat. While driving along the Columbia River Gorge to get here it was 89 degrees at midnight, so the Northwest is experiencing a record setting heat wave. We arrived Wednesday morning early and did some housekeeping. Julie brushed up on her Spanish at the laundamat while I had the oil changed and attempted to de-bug the view with very limited success. We then stocked up on groceries as we were soon to have Connor and his friend Winston Hawkins (they drove up from Salt Lake) join our excursion.

After getting settled at our temporary home, the Scandia RV Park the boys and I took a ride to see the road course Connor would race the following day, the U 23 riders were on the course and it was so hot and the race so spread out that the ended the race early with less than a 1/3 of the participants finishing the race. Fortunately Connor started at 8:00 AM, but it was already hot and by the time they finished it was blazing. Connor wound up in 6th place out of 124 riders. Later that day, as everyone slept, I crept off to fish the Tumalo River. It was a beautiful stretch of water and I caught plenty of small fish and gave quite a bit of blood to the resident mosquitoes.

Friday was the Time Trial and it was REALLY HOT. Connor went off at 12:29 and had a respectable result at 29th. We actually believe he was 16th (based on my timing) and the officials messed up his time by a minute as he finished at the same time as another rider. One of his teammates from Canada won the event. We took a drive in the afternoon to Mt. Bachelor that it is really just a ski resort with NO summer activities. Our return trip was through Sunriver where we used to vacation when we lived in Seattle. It brought back a lot of memories to Julie and me of 4 little girls on bikes, trips to the ice cream parlor and just how much time has passed. This was the place Katie learned to ride the little pink bike, where Jennie was pulled around in the Burley Trailer (in fact where we bought it) and where Sarah and Annie found independence going places on their own. It is hard to believe how quickly life is passing, and makes me more appreciative of every minute.

Last night we had dinner with the Huffman’s. We met Lorry Huffman last year in Val d’Or and have kept in touch at other cycling events and through email. Her son Evan raced with Connor last year in Canada and has been racing for the U23 team in Europe this year. We had a very nice time and met her husband Frank, who cooked steak and chicken on the grill.

Today is an off day and we will find something enjoyable to do. I am recovering from whatever Julie had and hope to be healthy in the next couple of days.

Tomorrow is the Criterium and then it is on the road home (temporarily) until the next leg begins.

PHOTO NOTES - New meaning to the term Shoe Tree. Seeing a flag on a barn stirs gratitued for the great land in which we live. Our home at Scandia RV Park.

Before this Moment is Just a Memory

2009-07-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

I had to chime in before this moment becomes just a distant memory. Here is a photo of Connor's US Team in Canada. The week was full of thrilling bike races and good company. Dave was in top form after a week on the road living his dream. It put a smile on my face to see him so relaxed and happy to be traveling the country (or should I say countries)? Tanner's father, Pat Putt was in Canada also and he is always good company. I am afraid I didn't qualify as "good company". I began getting sick 24 hours after setting foot in the RV and am still hacking a lung. I was almost thinking it might be swine flu but who knows. I don't recall having a cold wipe me out as thoroughly as did this one.
As usual, Connor provided us with first rate entertainment. The US National Team placed 2nd, just after the Canadian Team. He is strong! Oh so strong. I sit in awe of the things that fine tuned machine can accomplish. He had a fabulous experience and loved being with the team.
Oh, and can I say it one more time....the sight of that boy all decked out in USA team gear is enough to make a mother weep.

The Long and Winding Road – Days 16-18

2009-07-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

Well Saturday night started an epic drive from Val d’Or. We left following Connor’s race and drove into the night through the rain, watching intently for Moose, as every 15 miles there is a watch for Moose sign (we never saw one). We drove about 300 miles and parked at a Flying J Truck Stop between two idling semis. It sounded like we were sleeping on the freeway.

We got an early start and drove almost 1, 000 miles to Fargo, ND. About 100 miles out of Fargo we lost power and had to nurse the View the last 100 miles (fortunately ND is really flat) to the Dodge Dealer (after sleeping at Wal-Mart) where for the 3rd time they replaced the “Resonator” without which the View just doesn’t sound right.

After a couple of hour delay it was onto Bozeman Montana. In just over 48 hours we Driven 1,800 miles, crossed an international border, been in two countries, two provinces, across 3 states (Minesota, North Dakota and Montana) and joined the throngs of RV’s parked at Wal-Mart.

Driving that long non-stop one has time to think, and below are some of the things thunk:

• Lake Superior is superior, at least when compared with other lakes I have seen.
• The Badlands are just that.
• I-94 between Fargo and Billings is the best stretch of Interstate Highway in North America. It is in great condition, there is very little traffic, minimal construction, you pass National Parks and Monuments (including Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which I had never heard of before), and there is not a single outlet mall.
• There are lots of “Worlds Largest” items in North America. Among those that I have seen are Prarie Dog, Rocking Chair, Adirondack Chairs, Snowman, Moose (2), Wolves (2), Sand Hill Crane, Metal Sculpture and Bison. I am disappointed however to have missed the Worlds Largest Ball of Twine mentioned by Clark Griswold (my mentor) in the movie “Vacation”.
• The slowest drivers in the US can be found in Minnesota. I guess they are so used to driving in crumby weather, they can’t adapt to good conditions.
• Amber waves of grain are a truly magnificent sight.
• Thomas Jefferson was a very bright guy and the Louisiana Purchase was a bargain.
• Lewis and Clark were studs and there Journey of Discovery was the ultimate camping trip.
• I am a lucky man to have my wife and family and appreciate her patience with me, even when I forgot her Birthday (so did she, as we both thought it was the following day). I will make it up to her when we get home in September.

Photo Notes - Mom on her birthday at our Home Away from Home, the Wal-Mart parking lot; Theodore Roosevelt National Park; Dinner in Billings, who knew Montana had Casinos, it was all I could do to get Mom out of that place without loosing everything we own.
Lake Superior

Val I’Gnored – Day 15

2009-07-24T10:34:00.002-07:00

Well it has been a few days since the last info. was written, thus the I'Gnored. We do not have wi-fi where we are parked and so it kind of changes my level of interest, knowing I can’t complete what I’ve started until I disconnect the water, power, sewer, bring down the TV antenna, slide in the pop out and secure everything inside so I can drive around and try and sense a wi-fi hot spot. Today is Friday and we needed to go out and do laundry (yes we have clothes hanging inside the View). Mom is out cold and has not been feeling well, so I took advantage of the fact that the View is on the road and parked at the Comfort Inn so I could use their wi-fi. In terms of things to report, Connor and the US Team have done well. They currently have 1st and 2nd in the individual GC and first in the team GC. In the Time Trial yesterday, Connor was fastest out of the Mine, which is a big deal. He will get his name engraved on a huge trophy and there will even be a cash bonus paid to the team. It was his goal to win that, so we are really proud of him. He had a very good overall Time Trial ending up in 21st out of 124 riders. Currently he is at 28th in the individual GC with another road race today (111 Km). The weather has turned cool and wet, with torrential rain last night. We can only hope it dries out before he has to ride this afternoon. Well, Comfort Inn could probably use the 10 parking spaces I am spread out across so I had better make my way back to our hook up for the night.

Val S’Noored – Day 12

2009-07-24T10:34:00.001-07:00

Well as you might be able to tell, we slept in this morning until about 8:00. Got up and took a walk to the school where the teams are staying. While we were gone, Pat Putt dropped off results which shows Connor in 48th our of 128 riders. Today is a long Road Race (119 Km) and will arrive in town around 7:00 PM.

Val b’Oored – Day 11

2009-07-24T10:33:00.002-07:00

Well, as I said, there is not a lot to do in Val d’Or. I went on a long ride with Pat Putt to a scary little Indian town called Lac Simon, which felt like the setting of a Stephen King novel. Following the ride we all had breakfast for lunch at the View. Spent the balance of the day reading, sleeping, twiddling thumbs and waiting for the race to arrive in town at about 6:45 PM. It was exciting and on the last lap Connor made a break and gained about 10 seconds on the field, only to be swallowed up on the sprint. He did well and again we are proud to be here and see him compete at this level, and of the good young man he is. Back to the View for grilled steaks for dinner, using the portable grill AnnDrew gave me (it works great).

Val d’Or – Day 10

2009-07-24T10:33:00.001-07:00

Val d’Or was as we remembered it, a small town with not much to do. We are staying for 5 nights at the CitedelOr, which is an old gold mine and the site of the Time Trial on Thursday. Unfortunately Julie has come down with a cold and upset stomach, so we are hoping she gets better quick. Got to go for a ride and then we went to the official introduction of the teams for the Tour d’l Abitibi. It is exciting to see Connor with the US National Team and certainly a proud moment for Julie and me. He appears happy and excited about the race. Had pizza for dinner with Pat Putt (son Tanner is racing for the Waste Management Team).

Church Almost – Day 9

2009-07-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

I was successful in getting an address for the Thunder Bay Ward from Mormon.org. It gave us the start time of 10:00 AM for Sacrament Service. We arrived promptly at 10:00 to hear the High Council speaker wrapping up his remarks with “one more story”. Guess it started at 9:00. We headed to the parking lot, changed clothes and were on our way again. Canada is a big place as we drove from 10:30 AM until 11:30 PM to Val d’Or (our final destination) and passed only a few small towns amongst the trees, rivers and lakes. We stopped for the night at Wal-Mart and slept like babies.

Together at last at last at the Mall of America – Day 8

2009-07-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

After driving into the evening to find a place to stay for the night on Friday I wound up at a rest stop (Wal-Mart in Minneapolis does not permit overnight parking (I went to 4 of them)). Saturday morning was beautiful and I went on a quick ride past a scenic lake with nice homes surrounding it. The bike path was a nice wide trail in most spots, which I eventually learned was really for snowmobiles in the winter (it must get really cold here). After my ride, off to pick up Julie at the airport, which went off without a hitch. Our first stop was to the Mall of America, and unfortunately I did not take me camera to record this overwhelming spot with its indoor amusement park (Nichelodeon Sphere), Lego Land, Aquarium and over 500 stores on 4 levels. I told Julie to find herself a birthday present, but she said she could not shop with me.

Following our stop at MOA we made our way north to the shores of Lake Superior, which is like the ocean. We drove for 150 miles along the shoreline never seeing an opposite shore. While driving this two lane road, we came upon a terrible accident where a small car had crossed the road and must have gone airborne over big boulders and finally wound up crashed into a large tree. We stopped, along with others, and were amazed to find the occupants all conscious and coherent. Although they were injured, it did not appear any were serious and after seeing the condition of the car, that is a miracle. We left the accident (there were a lot of people there) and continued north for about 30 minutes before we saw a police car going the opposite direction towards the accident, then about 10 minutes later an ambulance, so the people injured waited about an hour for emergency help, at least from the direction we were traveling.

We crossed into Canada and within about 10 minutes came upon a black bear on the side of the road. We watched as she loped across the street and then saw she had two cubs as well. What a difference from Yellowstone where there would have been 200 people stopped to watch. Here, people hardly take notice.

We drove on until evening and stopped in Thunder Bay at a KOA Campground along with a lot of people who appeared to be staying there for their vacation.

Day 8 - Minneapolis

2009-07-17T14:37:00.001-07:00

Today felt like I was getting ready for my parents to visit me at my college dorm room. I want to make sure everything is set for when the love of my life arrives tomorrow. I made a few repairs, cleaned everything, filled the water and propane tanks and even did my laundry and rigged up a clothes line inside the View to dry a few things. I am sitting in a LaQuinta parking lot waiting for my stuff in the dryer to finish (it’s great; I can use their wi-fi and washer/dryer at the same time). On the way into Minneapolis, I made a stop at REI to exchange my watch which had leaked. What a great store, they made the exchange without any problem at all (which is why I love REI and Costco).

Anyway, later today to see Harry Potter and then find a Wal-Mart for the night. Can’t wait to see Julie tomorrow, it does get a little lonely.

Ride Across America?

2009-07-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

Today started with a great ride up the Missouri River. Although I expected it to be flat, it was a lot of climbing and again, big time headwinds going out (which made really nice coming back). I ran into a group doing America by Bicycle and today they had just crossed their half way mark. They started in Astoria, Oregon and finish in New Hampshire about 3700 miles later. I rode along and talked with Chuck from Maryland and learned as much as I could. There are 65 people on the trip and it takes almost 8 weeks. Maybe next year.

Later in the day I detoured to take in the Corn Palace. Really, I don't know who thinks this stuff up. Anyway as you can see by the photos, it is a building with the exterior decorated with corn and corn stalks, husks, etc. After seeing the Corn Palace, I realized I could have just come here instead of taking the time to see Mt. Rushmore.

Worlds Biggest Log Chair

2009-07-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

Another great day beginning with a two hour bike ride amonst the rolling hills and farm fields of South Dakota. Then to the local fly shop for advice on where to fish. They recommded the upper stretches of Rapid Creek, which must be why they call where I am staying Rapid City. It was a beautiful drive through the STEEP hills of SD to a copper colored stream. At first nothing, then using a weighted nymph started catching some fish. Hardly saw another person. The stream was picturesque. On my way back I saw what may be the highlight of the trip, the worlds largest log chair (yes people really think this stuff up and yes I drove out of my way to see it). Then onto Wall Drug in Wall SD. There is no way to describe this place so I will simply tell you all that if you are ever on I-90 near Wall, dont pass up the chance to see it. Had my first out of the View meal at Wall Drug, roast beef just like we used to get at school hot lunch, what a treat. Next stop was Badlands National Park, which is a lot like Southern Utah. I had no idea there were so many national parks, good thing I bought and annual pass. Unfortunately I did not have my camera ready when I passed the worlds largest prarie dog, but I am learning there are lots of worlds largest things around here. Tonight I am stopped next to an Arbys in Chamberlain which is right on the Missouri River. I was thinking about a bike ride in the AM, but there are 10 billion mosquitos here, so may reconsider.

Remember the days when kids would hide behind the gas station to smoke. Now adults park motor homes behind the gas station to use the free wi-fi at the neighboring hotel.

WHAT A RUSHmore - Day 5

2009-07-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

After a restful night at Wal-Mart, I started early this morning with a drive to Mount Rushmore. It is quite a site and I am happy I started early as by the time I left there were big crowds and my favorite, Tour Buses (kind of my sense of what a cruise is like). I did not remember that this was created by the same man who carved Stone Mountain in Georgia. Then onto Crazy Horse Mountain but only from a distance as I had already looked up the noses of 4 American Presidents and did not feel a need to get any closer to the yet unfinished Crazy Horse. I made a stop and rode my bike for about 45 miles in the Wind Caves National Park (did any of you know there was a Wind Cave National Park?). It was a great ride, but seemed a little like riding on gravity hill as it felt like I was riding uphill out and back and fighting a ferocious head wind both ways. I did go on a tour of the Wind Caves, which is an impressive 135 mile long cave system (which they believe only represents 5% of the total cave). Not quite like black water rafting in New Zealand, but still pretty impressive.

I slept like a baby at Wal-Mart and have decided that if I did not need to fill up my water tanks and empty my waste water tanks so frequently, it may not be a bad place to live.

Trout, Trout and More Trout - Day 4

2009-07-15T09:13:00.001-07:00

Today started with great anticipation. I had parked last night streamside on the North Tongue River. The drive to get here was another spectacular trip, steep canyons, waterfalls, moose, and as Joe Checchio would say, “Big country”. I am probably at about 9,000 feet, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. Although I love the opportunity I have had to see lots of other places around the world, I am not sure there is anything that rivals our own great Country.

I had planned to ride for a couple of hours this morning, but as the day got started it looked like there would be a serious storm so I decided to fish instead. By the time I got the bike cover on, the weather had turned nasty and it was apparent that not only would I not be riding this morning, but due to lightning, I would have to wait for a while to see about fishing. I am now killing time, waiting until about 8:30AM to see if this storm will break. If not, it is on to Devils Tower a little earlier than expected. The nice thing about this trip is there is no real agenda except to be in Minneapolis next Saturday morning, so I am really able to go with the flow.

I have really had the chance to reflect on how fortunate I am. I have been blessed with a great family, live in a wonderful place, have a testimony of the Gospel, enjoy good health, have had the chance to work hard and make a very comfortable living, have been able to provide for my family and have my wife at home to raise our children (who are all bright, beautiful, have had the opportunity to get a good education, are active and healthy, have had braces and were taught the Gospel in our home), and have the Views, which makes all this reflection on this trip possible. Hope all are well. I think of my family all time except when I am fishing, which appears to now be any minute as the storm has broken and it looks like time to get in the water.

“What a day this has been, what a great mood I’m in, well it’s almost like catching some fish”. Really, after the storm broke I fished the Tongue and although I was a little disappointed in the number and size of the fish for what is reputed to be a blue water special regulations fishery, there were plenty of fish and it was a blast catching them. I fished until noon and then grabbed lunch in the View, then off towards Devils Tower. Along the way, more beautiful scenery, and a stop at Prune Creek, which was better fishing than The Tongue. I really hated to leave but could see the weather changing so made my way east. The wind on I 90 was so strong it almost blew over the View, but other than that the drive to Devils Tower was uneventful. WOW, what a sight. I really could not believe how impressive it is. I’m sure people think I am nuts when I jump out of the motor home and ask them to take a picture of me, but hey, I will never see them again. While I was there the storm was moving in and backdrop behind the tower was a black sky with frequent lighting strikes so it really did look like Devils Tower.

After Devils Tower, I made my way further east and encountered the worst rain storm I have ever experienced. The rain made it impossible to see the freeway, the wind was like a tornado and there was lighting striking everywhere. I got off the freeway and there was a foot of water in the streets of Spearfish and Deadwood (an old western town, know full of Casinos) SD. The rain subsided and I went to Sturgis but unfortunately the annual Harley Rally is not until August. The town was dead and in fact looks like most of the buildings in downtown are vacant and used as temporary vendor space during the rally. After driving today in the rain, and realizing that if you are on a motorcycle trip, you really can’t do anything other than ride (you can’t stop and fish or drive in the rain, etc.) I am now convinced that at Motor Home is by far the best way to travel.

I am now stopped for the night at Wal-Mart, my home away from home, and tomorrow plan to see Mount Rushmore, maybe by bike.

Photo Note - I passed this little place in Shell, Wyoming called Dirty Annies, and lo and behold I found what may be my next vehicle, a sheep camp trailer.

Love to all, and please give my grandchildren Abbie and Andrew a hug from grandpa.

Me and Buffalo Bill

2009-07-12T13:45:00.001-07:00

Time flies when you are having fun. That is certainly true in my situation. Friday morning I made my way from Salt Lake and headed to points east. Thanks to TomTom, my constant traveling companion, I took the scenic route through Jackson and Yellowstone. Yes it took a lot longer, especially due to road construction in both parks, but I got to see spectacular scenery and fish in Yellowstone. I fished on Crawfish Creek, another tributary to the Snake and also on the Snake. I was wading in shorts and found out how deceptive a very clear river can be as I stepped off the bank into the Snake and was waist deep in water (it looked like it would only be knee deep). It was refreshing. I caught fish everywhere but the Snake although they were rising all around me. I finally made it to Cody, WY about 8:30 PM and made my way to the local Wal-Mart Super Center where I stopped along with 20 of my closest RV traveling companions.

Saturday started with a 35 mile bike ride to the east. It seems wherever I am riding I am able to find the end of the pavement. I did so in Europe and likewise in Cody. It was a beautiful morning with little traffic except for the occasional hog. Did I mention I am traveling towards Sturgis and it must be Harley Week there as I am traveling with hundreds, if not thousands of Harley riders. I am baffled by this group. Most are my are or older, have long grey hair and full beards and don’t look particularly wealthy, except for their very expensive motor cycles, the coordinating cars and motor homes that follow them. Not sure what they do to make all their money, but I am seriously considering getting a Harley when I get home next year. Did I say year, I really meant month, must have been a Freudian slip. The rest of the day was spent exploring the wilderness north to Montana, where I was told about a secret lake full of grayling. Well I got to the spot after about 2 hours of driving over the highest pass you can imagine and learned that the secret was out. I was there with about 1,000 other people, so packed up and made my way back towards Cody, fishing along the way on the Clarks Fork River. Lots of fish, but again nothing bigger than about 9 inches long. The scenery was spectacular. Saturday night I attended the Cody Rodeo, and cannot imagine why people ride bulls. Of the 8 or so that tried (no one succeeded), 3 were injured and one was taken off on a back board in a neck brace. Some of theme wore helmets, but it was obvious that in making the decision to try and ride a bull they already had brain damage.

Another night at Wal-Mart, this time the place was packed. I made it to church this morning and it was a nice ward. Following church it was off to the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. What an incredible place, five different museums each of which you could spend a couple of hours in. I spent about 3 hours and felt like I really needed more time. I would honestly come back to Cody just to see this place again, it was incredible. This afternoon I am off to the east and north to fish on the North Tongue. It is supposed to be great, but may end up being like the secret lake. Anyway I understand it is beautiful and that there is lots of wildlife. The guide who told me about it fished it last week and said they say 100’s of elk, lots of deer and 13 moose. I will be sure to take my camera.

Having a great time, but wish Connor was with me to bike and fish and Julie was with me to see the sights.

PS I must have done something to offend TomTom as several times yesterday he tried to get me to turn of sheer cliffs or into solid rock wall faces. Today I am trying to be really nice to him.

2009-07-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

On The Road Again

2009-07-09T21:30:00.000-07:00

This time it is North America. Hard to believe that so far this year we have been to the Grand Canyon and Arizona, Belgium, The Netherlands, Monterey California, The Cayman Islands, Switzerland, Germany and even France overnight. I have had the opportunity to ride my bike everywhere we have gone, and be with the people I love and care about most. Tomorrow marks the beginning of the original plan for Where in the World is Dave O'Leary. It was always meant to be a journey of getting "Lost in America" via motor home ( which happens to be the title of one of the funniest movies I have seen, and includes a motor home); to see the sights of our great country. It has changed a little based on Connor racing in Canada for the US National Jr. Road Cycling Team so now it is a little more hurried, but regardless will allow me to see some incredible sights. This next week will include Cody, Wyoming and the Buffalo Bill Wild West Center, Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore and fishing and cycling every chance I get. I even have a Honda scooter strapped on the back of The View (my home away from home). A week from Saturday I will pick up Julie (my incredibly understanding wife) in Minneaplois and we will continue into Canada where Connor will race in a Nations Cup race. Then it will be a cross country race to Bend, Oregon where the US National Cycling Championships are being held. All in all it will take nearly a month.

To say the least I am excited and feel incredibly fortunate to have the opporunity to take this trip. Although it is not Lewis and Clark it will certainly be jorney of discovery.

I will do my best to keep updating including photos.

I Feel Like Dorothy!

2009-06-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

The trip has drawn to a close and I am wishing I was Dorothy. Jennie asked; "Dorothy Hunt????" No, I said, "Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz." Truth be known, "There is no place like home!" I love home! It's good that Dave has the wandering bone in his body because I would just stay home all of the time. I love home! But, I also love being with my partner in crime! Today I am going to click my heelsl and repeat the phrase "There's no place like home", three times. If that doesn't work, I will board the flight from Geneva, take an ambien and hope to show up at my home in 9 or so hours! Hope I don't have to take the long way but if I have to, it will be worth the effort. Don't get me wrong, I have loved this expreience it is just that after 10 days (anywhere in the world) I need to crawl into my own bed, do my own work, and see the other faces I love!

The Pilatus

2009-06-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

While in Switzerland we took a cog train up the Pilatus. The views were spectacular and the ride up was an amazing feat in early technology. I sat on the edge of my seat most of the time hoping that the cogs in this railway would hold us on the mountain. Jennie and I were talking in the car the other day and asking each other about our dreams. When we asked Dave what his dream was his reply was; "I'm living it". Me too.

Trofeo Karlsbert 2009 Nations Cup Race

2009-06-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

Guten Morgen! Last night was the first race of the Juniors Nations Cup. There were about 22 Nations competing and since I don’t have the paper in front of me I will just write what I remember; Russia, Germany, France, South Africa, USA, Ukraine, Belgium, Poland, Japan, Switzerland, Netherlands. Well I guess you can see how short my memory is (1/2 speed). To say the least, it is a great honor to be invited to compete in such a race. I believe these were the National Junior’s teams that competed in this stage race. It is interesting because everything is in German so we have to piece together information. It is like putting together a Giant puzzle with the last pieces missing. Last night was a road race, if I remember correctly it was about 120 km. Once again, the pace was fast and the field highly competitive. Somehow 2 of the winners were from Rabobank and Lotto, which I thought were Pro teams??? They didn’t have the name of a particular nation on their jerseys so go figure??? Were they on Pro teams? I don’t know. Wish I had paid better attention in that German class I took in Salzburg (25 years ago). Bobbi and I were too busy looking for the postman and buying chocolate and souvenirs. Actually, we had much more depth that that sounds. It is good for me to remember that because it puts the behaviors of some of my children into perspective. Can’t wait to really talk to Connor. We are here sort of incognito. Of course, he doesn’t need or want his parents following him like groupies, so we are as discreet as 3 Americans can be (1 in a red coat, 1 twenty -one year old beauty who garners the attention of every foreign man from ages 16-99, and one grey haired gentleman carrying a video camera with a 20 foot pole attached.. Lawson Craddock from the US Team won the red and white jersey by winning King of the Mountain. In German it is GPM rather than KOM! I secretly call that Grand Prince of Bellaire! I know what you really want are the race results, so let me just get there…don’t know. Didn’t even see Connor finish (hope he doesn’t read this). They are moving so fast it is hard to pick out just the right boy although I have sworn in the past I could pick his riding style out of any crowd. Most of the US team came in somewhere in the front to middle and I will assume that my boy was with them. Hoped for a win but will settle for Grand Prince crown. Lawson was up there doing the “kiss on 3 cheeks” or 3 girls (that equals 9 kisses) very well. Today is another stage race. I’ll post tonight if we have internet. Well, my man just walked in from his a.m. ride and our stomach’s are growling…..croissants here we come! Hey Connor….RIDE LIKE THE WIND AND BEEEEE SAFE!

US Team Keeps Yellow Jersey-Wins Stage Race

2009-06-08T14:24:00.001-07:00

Did I fail to mention that the US Team won the Stage race in Switzerland. It was the most difficult races I have ever witnessed. Four days full of high climbs, long miles, switchbacks, and tough competition. Nathan Brown won the Yellow Jersey on the Prologue (time trial) so you know what that means, we spend the next 3 stages defending it. Connor was a huge part of that. The 3rd Stage had an incredibly high climb with switchbacks and narrow, steep streets..miles and miles of uphill. No photo would do this justice either, but I'll post one. Connor pulled Nathan to the top and then, as is customary, steps aside so the yellow can take the win. Connor is a team player in every sense of the word. Loyal, strong and willing to step back while the other guy takes the credit. I love that kind of man! Love you boy! Love your guts, heart and mind too. Get rested up for the next race on Thursday!

Gruyere, Switzerland

2009-06-08T14:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is the small town where Gruyere Cheese is made! Yummy!

Flying High

2009-06-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

The Jungfrau is between these two mountains, covered in snow and clouds. (Photo below) Our hotel, the Swiss Chalet with the 2 flying flags was built in the 1600's.

Today was supposed to be Jungfrau day. When we saw the cloud cover we had a change of plans. We headed up Trummlebach (sp?) falls. They were incredible and photos can't begin to do them justice. You can see 2 lame photos above. After the disappointment of the aborted Jungfrau trip, we decided to opt for a different kind of mountain adventure. Gutsy Jennie wanted to go Paragliding. We watched from below as she dropped over the top of the mountains banking our view of the Jungfrau and floated near the falls, over the mountain tops, down the steep banks of the mountains and landed gracefully in a meadow where we were standing. (All of this with her guide, Peter, of course.) She will remember this day longer than she might have remembered the train trip to the Jungfrau. She was "Flying High". You Go Girl!

What in the World?????

2009-06-08T01:24:00.000-07:00

Where in the World is Dave O'Leary now? I can tell you, he is standing outside by the car waiting for the women (or should I say Jennie) in his life to finish getting ready. I can hear from the blow dryer that we have a way to go so I thought a post was in order. We have been in Europe (Switzerland) for the past week. Blogging has been hard because the computer is tied up at nights (once again, Jennie). We are really so happy to have her with us that she can take as long as she wants beautifying and we will happily share our computer time.
Thus far we have been traveling though and staying in small Swiss towns. We have been touring castles, walking though sleepy rural towns, enjoying the lush green countryside and one another.. oh, did I fail to mention the chocolate? That will probably be the most visible part of our trip, you will see when we get home.
So far, we have had a little bad news. Little Red Riding Hood fell on some railroad tracks and broke her tiny arm in two places, a compound fracture
That means...bones sticking through the skin. OUCH. Katie was riding Saturday in the "Little Red Riding Hood" bicycle ride in Logan. She had trained and was pedaling through the woods when along came the Big Bad Wolf (some very wet railroad tracks). They took a big bite of her and she is in the hospital in Logan. She was part of the ward "Flat and Tired" women's team! I would say she is a wonderful mascot for the team, very flat and tired right now! The neighborhood and of course Annie have taken great care of her.
Sarah was in SLC on her book tour while we were gone. So glad that the family can thrive in our absence. Thanks to all our friends for attending her signing at King's English, it was a great beginning for her tour. We also have many good friends in Seattle so I am sure she will see some familiar faces there. Thanks to technology, I was able to see her Today Show segment hours after it aired live. Great job honey! After watching it Jennie turned to me and said aren't you glad you are almost done with your kids in the dating stage? Without wiping a tear or even a moment of regret, I said YaHoo! Not that I wished away a moment of it, but those late nights get old after 5 kids. However, I am being reminded that I still have 2 to marry off the the highest bidder! Let the bidding begin!

How it All Began

2009-05-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

How it began. First of all let me say that "Where in the World is Dave O’Leary" (“WITWIDO”) was never meant to be a solo activity. It was recognition that this was a unique year/summer. A year that included some already scheduled international family travel, some probable European travel with Connor racing, quite a bit of domestic travel for races around the country during Connor’s last year as a Jr., our last summer with Connor at home and his graduation from High School (anticipate a Mission in June 2010), and release from my duties as Bishop of our local LDS ward. The primary means of accomplishing this journey was the View, our 23 foot Winnebago Motor Home which I enjoy immensely, despite the idiosyncrasies and oddball problems associated with driving your house. All along the idea was to have people join me on as much of this travel as possible and the invitation was extended first to my loving and supportive wife. She gently made it clear that she had no desire to drive around the country in a motor home, even if we would see some great things, but would allow me to hit the road and would even join me on a few legs where she could fly in to meet me. I welcome anyone who wants to tie in for a leg of the journey.

February – PHOENIX/GRAND CANYON - The 2009 World Tour of WITWIDO began in February with a trip to Phoenix for The Valley of The Sun Stage Race along with Julie, Connor and our Arizona companion, Winston Hawkins (Winston is the only one who kept me company as I drove into the night and early in the morning). It is always nice to leave the winter blahs and head for the Sun in February. Usually we have driven straight through each way, however on this trip we took the opportunity to return via the Grand Canyon. Unbelievable that we have all this natural beauty so close to us any yet prior to a few years ago I had never seen Zion, Bryce, Moab, Torrey, Capitol Reef, etc. Recognizing how much there was to see, also contributed to initiating WITWIDO. The Grand Canyon was beautiful in winter and based on the number of parking places much quieter than it would be in the summer.

April 15th – 31st – BELGIUM - Our next leg was our last minute decision to go to Belgium and watch Connor race with the US Jr. National Team. We were able to secure frequent flyer tickets, use some Marriott points for some of the hotels, and find a cheap rental car (so cheap in fact that the company went out of business while we had the car, which made returning it a little problematic) which made the trip affordable/possible. I was also able to take my Christmas present, a Ritchey Break Away bike the fits in its own suitcase and checks like luggage. Belgium is a gem. As you can see from postings to the blog, we had a great time, ate like tourists, watched some great bicycle racing, saw some incredibly beautiful sites, met very nice people, had wonderful weather and I even got to ride most days. If it wasn’t so darn expensive and fattening, I would probably travel there regularly.

APRIL – MONTEREAY, CA - 17 MILE DRIVE/BIG SUR - Next on tap, the day after we returned from Europe was to hop in the View and head for Monterey, CA for The Sea Otter Classic. Connor and I were joined by our good friend Nate Sorenson, who had recently received his mission call to Paraguay. The journey was like most trips in the View; I drive, everyone else sleeps, eats and watches movies and then miraculously we arrive at our destination and they can’t believe how quickly we got there. While in Monterey we had the chance to spend some time with my brother Steve, his wife Suah and son Stevie, which was great. I couldn’t remember the last time I had seen them but it was at least 10 years before. Between races, Connor, Nate and I were able to ride the famous 17 mile drive through Carmel along the Pacific Coast. It was spectacular and certainly one of the desired destinations of WITWIDO. Later that day, after a small mishap with the View in a parking lot, where we almost ripped the door off a truck parked next to us when the driver decided to open his door, between the back of our vehicle and the trailer hitch bike rack (even though our noisy diesel was started and he had to know we were going to pull out). After that mishap and the application of some packing tape to put the View back together it was off to drive to Big Sur, another spectacular site. The races were exciting and Connor placed 7th in the Circuit race (he had a mechanical problem that would not allow the bike to stay in the gear he needed). He fared better in the Road Race and in fact we thought he had it won and someone sprinted by him at the finish so he wound up second by a few 10th’s of a second. Probably the most memorable part of the trip was riding to see the road race out in the hilly countryside, where I decided to take a break along the side of the course. I sat under the shade of an oak tree and then noticed that there were oak bushes all around me. It was then that I recalled one of the only things I may have learned on my journey to Weblo Cub Scout (as far as I made it) and that was “leaves of three, let it be”. I even said to Nate, “does this look like poison oak?” Needless to say, it was and a few days later I broke out with a miserable case of poison oak that made me very uncomfortable for 2 weeks and even carried into our next leg of the Journey.

May 3rd – 12th – GRAND CAYMAN BRITISH WEST INDIES – This was supposed to be Mexico where I had rented and paid for a house for this trip over a year ago, secured frequent flyer tickets for all my children and spouses (ten of us) and arranged and paid for a smattering of other vacation activities. What are the odds that the week I am being released as Bishop and scheduled to leave on this wonderful trip, the SWINE FLU breaks out in Mexico City and the World is on the verge of a PIG FLU PANDEMIC. People panicked, Julie bought masks to wear on the plane, and the decision to go was on again, off again. After a sleepless night we ultimately elected to change the trip. Fortunately we were able to use our Frequent Flyer tickets, the house in Mexico gave us credit for a future rental (which means another vacation next winter) and we were able to find a suitable house on Grand Cayman three days before we were to depart. All was arranged and the night before we were to leave on this trip, I swelled up in various places with HIVES. I have never had hives before and when I they started to invade places I would rather not talk about, Julie and I decided I had better go to the emergency room. We did so and they were a little concerned that whatever was causing me to react, could impact my breathing so they started me on some IV medication to get the condition under control. After about 2 ½ hours the swelling began to subside, they gave me some prescriptions including steroids (which I was already on for the poison oak – see Monterey) and sent us on our way. The next day, all seemed fine until about 5:30 when I began to break out in hives again. We treated it with the new medication and were lucky enough to have Dr. Sara Rimington call and take action. She got me some EPI Pens to take on the trip just in case I swelled up on the plane and was unable to breathe, which was highly unlikely but still a little unsettling. Fortunately I have not had to stick myself with an EPI Pen but I have had a couple of outbreaks while on our trip. This was certainly a first for me as I have never been allergic to anything in my life. We are trying to narrow it down, but nuts seem the most likely source of this problem. I am pretty upset with that because I really enjoy peanut butter. In fact if I were on death row, my last meal request would be tomato soup, crackers and a peanut butter sandwich. Well the trip to Grand Cayman has been overall a success. I spent money on a fly fishing guide to hunt for bone fish (0 success) and also chartered a boat for a reef fishing trip to catch lots of edible fish (3 inedible bone fish and a sting ray), then made the decision to up the ante and the cost and go out deep sea fishing for some Mahi Mahi. It’s a big ocean, but we had an able captain, great equipment and the right attitude and caught a whopping 0 fish after chasing a bird around for 2 hours with the captain yelling that they were feeding right ahead of us. I have made a vow never to pay a fishing guide again, as I can go by myself and catch nothing and based on what I spent on this portion of the trip we could have gone out to dinner every night and had a wonderful fresh fish dinner at a really nice restaurant. Other than the fishing, my bout with Hives and my reaction to the steroids I was taking, the trip has been fabulous. Wonderful to be with Julie and the kids in a beautiful, warm place. We are all excited for our next trip to Mexico, provided there is not an outbreak of the CAT FLU.

Across the Deep Blue

2009-05-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Do you hear me,

I'm talking to you

Across the water, Across the deep blue ocean

Under the open sky oh my, baby I'm trying

"Lucky" Jason Mraz

Where in the world is my man? He's with me across the "Deep Blue"! How very grand. (It would be even nicer if he wasn't cross from enduring a double pack of prednizone and a shot in the E.R. prior to arriving in paradise.) He is fighting an allergic reaction to the poisins in his body from his rumble in the poison oaks of Monteray, California. We arrived here, Monday (emergency "eppie" pen in hand). The side effects should subside just as we finish our trip and board our Delta flight for the Utah desert. We are enjoying the Cayman Islands with the clan, minus the crown jewels (our grandchildren). Our trip to Sting Ray City (pictured above) was a highlight. We chartered a boat and headed out to the reef where we snorkled and sunned our pasty "Utah white" bodies. The squeeling began when we anchored the boat at "Sting Ray City", a spot that was formerly used to clean the catch before returning to shore. Stingrays congregated here and someone thought, "Bingo", a way to make $$$, so tourist boats and cruises anchor at this shallow sandy spot to feed the rays. It was on this spot that we confirmed the fact that the boys are the "real woosies". For miles away you could hear the squeals of grown men as the rays pushed slimy bodies against ours, weaving in and out looking for food.

We relished the opportunity to reconnect with some of our favorite people, the Grampp family. Ahh, we continually reap the blessing of having moved away from our comfort zone where we formed many lasting friendships. They live on 7 Mile Beach and welcomed us once again into their hearts and home and with 3 beautiful girls, there was little complaining from the impatient ones in our crew.

More to say but for now, sun and sea are calling my name! Goodbye for now.

Lucky

2009-04-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

Jason Mraz sings my feelings today:

Lucky I'm in love with my best friend,

Lucky to have been where I have been ,

Lucky to be commin' home again!

Can't you just hear me singing?

After a long flight and a few time zones, we are back home. This blog didn't do such a great job of reporting Connor's races but perhaps you got a taste of his Belgian experience and a feeling for "Where in the World Dave O'Leary has been! I love being his travel partner! What great travels we've had together as we've faced this life hand in hand. Where in the world will Dave O'Leary go next? Stay tuned.

Stage 2--Still have Yellow Jersey (by 3 seconds)

2009-04-12T23:50:00.000-07:00

Recovery Drink Time

Post Race

Adam Leibovitz USA Keeps Yellow Jersey

Try riding on these

Stage 2 was a tough 130 km. The USA Director, Ben Sharp said this on twitter: "i just rode 50km of today's stage. it's difficult, all up and down, open cross wind and descent on cobbles. i know the team are up for it."

There were several crashes and a few dropouts, 174 cyclists completed this stage. The boys worked hard and barely kept the yellow jersey by 3 seconds. Hope they slept well last night and are prepared for a hard ride today. All of Belgium teams will be working double hard to ensure that we don't win. This racing is much more difficult than in the U.S. Well, how can I say that, I am not the one doing it. We will have to ask Connor that question. We were talking to some parents from Great Britian yesterday and she shed some light on a few things. We learned that this race is hightly competitive and is by invitation only. She said these are some of the best junior racers in Europe. Her son was in 2nd place and on the podium with Adam after the Prologue. It is fun to see the fans come out in these small towns. Connor did well, he came in 25th place today, which was (the 1st of the U.S. team) but the other boys on our team were close behind. His level of fitness amazes me. Stay tuned, today is stage 3. Anything could happen in this final stage.

Stage 1

2009-04-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

Close to finish-laps in city
On the road

Just a quick update on yesterdays race. It was a 119 km road race. The weather was perfect. The races don't start until about 3 p.m. which seems so late after all of the mornings we have been up before the sun in the U.S.
The U.S. was defending the yellow jersey, won by Leibovitz the day before in the time trial. I am really beginning to understand that in a Stage race, the race is won in the time trial. Each second counts toward your overall score and so your ranking at time trial can make or break it when the GC is calculated. The racing is fast and hard. There were around 200 in the field. Dave and I made 1 stop to wait for the team to go by and then waited at the finish. Connor was holding his own. A good long road race is his thing! He positions himself well and is always close to the front but not doing all of the work. When the racers enter the destination city, they circle around (crit like) for 6 laps or so. Nathan Brown from the U.S. was leading a break off group that carried a 36 second lead on the pack, that is until the last lap. (Connor in the front of the second pack along with some of his team so I am assuming that their job was to block. ) Then of course things change. The U.S. did not win the road race but by virtue of GC time, should have kept the yellow jersey. However, the host city messed up and the boy winning this stage was awarded the yellow jersey. Ben Sharp's(USA Cycling) last twitter post said that a mistake was made and we do indeed keep the yellow jersey by 8 seconds. Too bad that the podium experience wasn't realized; cute podium girl, nice flowers, great photos. Oh well. Today's race is again at 3 p.m. and this one is 130 km. The boys were good and tired after yesterday's race, and boy were they dirty from riding all of these farm roads. I am glad I didn't have to clean the shower after that crew cleaned up and I am feeling sorry for whoever cleans their bikes? I am not sure but they do have a mechanic and a masseuse, and someone who hands them their jackets the minute the race is over, so maybe someone cleans their bikes? I am making this sound like a muddy cycle cross race but it wasn't that at all. It was fun to watch, oh my goodness what a scene. It was like a mini Tour de France, it was a car parade. Motorcycles (many of them) headed the race out along with the race car. There was an official course consultant car, there were scores of team cars that raced along with the riders. That seems like an accident waiting to happen! The team cars moved fast sometimes right along side a rider. The U.S. boys all performed well and from what I could see, they performed well as a team. If we seem short on details it is because we don't really talk to Connor. We are just mice in the corner, staying away and letting him live this experience with his team. We don't speak the language and so don't always know exactly what is going on until we can see it with our own eyes. Anyway, we are off to Stage 2, hope this post made sense. Go USA!

Belgium Update

2009-04-11T23:10:00.000-07:00

Each day here is great starting with a couple of hours on the bike in the morning and touring this wonderful country after that. The days are long with the sun up early and light until 8:30 PM so lots of time to see this beautiful place. We are staying in an Orchard area called Borgloon and all the trees are in bloom which makes the rolling hills green and white (blossoms). Every where we drive, usually on small country roads, we see castles, beautiful churches or cathedrals, and quaint towns with bakeries, butchers, chocolate shopes, etc. Each morning I start my ride with a fresh croissant so despite any calories burned while out I am still am packing on the pounds. Watching Connor and the US Team has been great and I should post a video today from the prior two races.

The Prologue (Time Trial) in Borlo

2009-04-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Prologue or time trial works like this. Each boy starts on a ramp as the time is counted down. He takes off and the team car races behind him. The car is equipt with a loud speaker and they yell things (what I don't know). Each boy races the clock. Connor's time was probably 6:47 (according to Dave's watch). I don't know where he placed yet but I do know that the yellow jersey went to Team USA--Adam Liebowitz with a time of 6:21 (30 seconds faster than the winning time last year). So, I think Connor should feel like he had a great ride. Now, we will be defending the yellow jersey!

Tomorrow is a road race (who knows how long. I went to ask Dave and he is back in fetal position, snoring softly and approaching that blissful REM state. Wish I didn't find that so illusive! More tomorrow. Keep tuned.

Enjoy the photos.

The "Follow Car" lining up to follow Connor
Con Dog!

5, 4, 3, 2, 1, GO!

Father & Son, I have seen this scene a million times and it still touches me.

USA Cycling Van and Follow Car

Wow, that leg looks great in USA gear!

In the warm up gates, next up for the time trial

Pre Race Thoughts of a Mother

2009-04-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

It’s race time! Several hundred young handsome cyclists flood the narrow streets of Borlo anxiously awaiting their moment to compete. This small Belgium town has had a sudden onslaught of testosterone and bicycles. Excitement is in the air and you can almost hear the beating of their hearts, or is that my heart that can be heard above the crowd? Cycling words are plastered everywhere; on cars, signs, bikes and bodies. Familiar words like: Trek, Jelly Belly, USA Cycling, Lotto, Specialized, to name a few of the English words. The boys have become moving billboards for the cycling industry.
Dave is pacing. This what he does prior to race time and I am thinking. Thinking and wondering what thoughts run through the mind of a 17 year old boy prior to competition. I have learned to love the sights and sounds of these competitions: the spinning of wheels, the clipping of shoes into petals, the sounds of encouragement. The sport of cycling is a gentlemen’s sport, low key, and relatively calm. There is no fighting and few words are exchanged after competition. There is not the yelling you hear at football games or the crowds cheering as basketball players dunk the ball. I have had to learn to contain myself and act like a lady, sans too much screaming. This sport doesn’t miss the “Ra Ra” because the cyclists are not waiting for the approval of the crowd, there will be little of that. They are here because they love the sport; they love to cycle anytime and anywhere. That has to be the case because they spend hours doing just that, far from the “madding crowd”. They pedal through heat, rain, snow and sleet. They spend hours and hours in the basement without a coach to bark commands or applaud accomplishments. So here I go, indulge me for a moment. Ra Ra Connor! Ra Ra for all of the young men and women who head out day after day on their trusty bicycles to add to their fitness bank and hone their technique. Ra Ra Connor! I couldn’t be more proud—not just because you represent the USA but because you have found one of the “loves” of your life and you nurture it with dedication and time (oh, that was my heart thumping, it is the heart of a proud mother). Good luck son, no matter where you place in the races, you are a winner in my book because cycling has taught you how to win the game of life. I love watching you pedal your way to success.

Off to the Races

2009-04-10T00:56:00.000-07:00

I have had trouble sleeping (at the right times) since we arrived. Dave is curled in fetal position and approaching his REM sleep and I am wide eyed, working on scrapbook pages. Thankfully, I brought my computer which has been my friend in the late hours of the night. Here is last night's page. Yesterday we crossed the border into Germany and spent the day roaming around Aachen. It was fun to be in Germany again. Dave expected that I would be able to show off my language skills but he was sorely disappointed (how long has it been..34 years?). He however continues to amaze! He can take any language and put a portugeuse spin on it, and "Voila" he is speaking Dutch, German, French...just name it!

Today, we are "Off to the Races"!

As you know, the previous 2 races were just a "get your feet wet" experience in small towns dressed in each boys local gear. The stage race that starts today will be in USA Gear and working as the US National Team. That may involve even more competition (and elbows)? It is a 4 day stage race with today being the Prologue (time trial). Go USA! Good Luck Connor!

I Have Died and Gone to Flower Heaven

2009-04-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Day 6 & 7 Goodbye Brugge, Hello Holland!
After a 3 hour drive (which felt like a minute to me because I slept like a baby), we arrived in the Netherlands, checked into our hotel and went straight to the beach. The North Sea was as grey as the sky but the sand was pristine, the day warm, and the sound of the waves calming. No matter the dull sky, we enjoyed a long barefoot walk down the beach as we talked and searched for shells that we thought would delight Abbie. We dined oceanside on warm soup and then walked through this charming beach town. It was calm and quiet as high season is yet to come. We were grateful for the low season and enjoyed the solitude.

Morning brought the day I have anxiously anticipating…Keukenhof, the tulip fields. I was taken back 30 years ago when I was a student with BYU, studying in Salzburg, Austria. I clearly remembered traveling to Holland in May to see Keukenhof. It was one of the highlights of my Europeon experience and today’s trip did not disappoint. Once again, Keukenhof was a highlight for me. Although not as sunny as the day 30 years ago, it was all that I had hoped for. Dave patiently walked the gardens with me and indulged me as I bought tulip bulbs that will arrive at my home in September. What a great souvenir, one that will remind me of this glorious day for years to come! This way, I will be able to share Keukenhof with all of you (assuming I can get Dave and Connor to help with the planting).

Kermasse Waarshoot

2009-04-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

2nd video

Kermasse Waarshoot

2009-04-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

1st video of Saturday race.

North Sea - Tulips

2009-04-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

Today we drove from Brugge in Belgium to the North Sea Coast in Holland. It feels much different than Belgium. Our hotel is on the coast but the room is the size of our motor home bedroom. Tomorrow we will see the tulip fields in Kukenhof and hope that they will be in bloom. Have seen huge fields of Daffodils that are brilliant yellow.

Nourishment while cycling

2009-04-06T01:28:00.000-07:00

This morning I took a beautiful bike ride along the canals. It is so peaceful and charming. After being out about an hour I realized I was hungry. As luck would have it I had a power bar, gu and some sport drink so I knew I could eat, however none of which sounded very appealing. Fortunately I was rescued from anything healthy when I found a Belgian bakery that had fresh apple pastries, loaded with butter. I was able to wash it down with chcolate milk, which tastes just like the hot chocolate. I think tomorrow I will leave the power bars, gu and sport drink at the hotel. DOL

Evidence of Joe

2009-04-06T01:04:00.000-07:00

All this time we beleived that Checchio

was italian, yet everwhere we look we see evidence that he is really flemish Maybe his real name is Checchiosteke and he is hiding some deep dark secret about his past. When he tells us he has been going to Florida and Mexico, we now know that he has been traveling across the atlantic to do some tree trimming like that he does on Mount Springs Road.

2009-04-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

2nd half of race

2009-04-05T12:12:00.000-07:00

Attached is video of Connor racing in the Kermasse Beernam earlier today. There will actually be two posts as the video when combined is too large to submit.

Tour of Flanders - Kermasse Beernam

2009-04-05T02:19:00.000-07:00

Today started out with a lot of excitement. First Julie fell on the narrow steps walking out our front door. It is a worn slate and very narrow. She twisted her ankle and went down on her back. She is in pain, but has been a good sport and walked all the way to the Market Place to see the start of the Tour of Flanders. What an event. It was like the Super Bowl with tens of thousands of people jamming the streets behind barricades and cramed into the Market Square. We found a table at a restaurant near the stage and watched from behind as they brought up each team. We then walked to where we could get a view of the entire caravan and peloton of riders. It was all very exciting and to top things off, this afternoon we get to go watch Connor race. I will also be adding some video from yesterdays race in Waarshoot. He was right in it and unfortunately hit a cobblestone and flatted. There are things we can and can't control and getting a flat tire is clearly out of our control. He is a good sport and we were thrilled to see him and his team mates. We are excited he has earned this opportunity and are proud of his efforts. Oh, by the way we sat and drank hot chocolate and ate waffles waiting for the race to start. What a place. Video of Connors race attached

More Photos from Brugge-More of Day 3

2009-04-03T13:46:00.001-07:00

This is one of the only Michelangelo pieces outside of Italy!

It is in a church on Market Square. Beautiful!

Canals in Brugge

Oops again, don't know how to cut without redoing all of the uploads.

Daffodils by the Monastary

We rented this 2nd floor flat for 3 days

Brugge, Belgium

More of the Brugge Skyline

Oops, didn't mean to post this twice

Enjoy, we certainly are.

Day 3-Damme & BruggeDay 3-Waking up in DammeDay 3-Waking up in Damme

2009-04-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

The Courtyard at our Inn "Verschare"
Dave in front of our home for the night

Day 3-Waking up in Damme
Waking up to the rooster’s call, a brisk morning walk in the cool breeze, listening to the birds chirp gladness of the new found Spring, watching Dave ride down the street on his new “breakaway” bike and enjoying the hourly sound of church bells. Ahhhh the joys of this small town called Damme!

Later this morning we will go to a little town Dave found on his morning ride and finish off this 5 star morning with breakfast. How simple life seems in this sleepy little town. This is a moment to freeze! I am sitting in the sun on the courtyard patio of this charming hotel, writing in my journal, a rare and precious moment indeed! Can’t wait to see how this day unfolds.

2009-04-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

Heard from Connor and can't believe that he is complaining about the food. We have had steak, frittes, apple pastries, croissants, choclate, cheeze, and I could keep going. Today I rode to the ocean following canals through the most spectacular countryside. Saw pheasants everywhere and the trails are incredible with no traffic. Tomorrow I hope to ride part of the Tour of Flanders course in the morning (the real race is on Sunday), which is a huge international race with the top teams from around the world. They are setting up for the race now (see video) in the town square. Then we will be off to see Connor race and should be posting later. I would write more but some stroop waffles are in the kitchen waiting for me and I should not make them wait any longer. Love Dad

Day 2-Oostende & Damme

2009-04-03T04:32:00.000-07:00

Day 2-Oostende (on the coast & Damme

Dave eating fresh fish from the street vendor

Looking from canal across to cathedral at town square in
Oostende

Oostende

Village of Damme, Belgium
The view on my morning walk

Our day on the coast included:

a long slow stroll down the pier
snacking on fresh fish from the open air market
hot chocolate at the tea house
window shopping
walking, walking and more walking
a tour of the beautiful gothic cathedral
a drive along the coast to a little village by the name of "Damme" where we spent the night in a charming hotel "Verschare"

All in all, a perfect day! (Even by Dave's standards)

Day 1-Brussels

2009-04-01T14:48:00.001-07:00

Day 1-Brussels

The Grand Place

Dad, checking out the chocolates!

Grand Place, Brussels

Mannequin Pis

You can't see the "stream" in this photo

After almost 16 hours traveling, we have finally arrived in
Belgium! The 6 hours in the Chicago airport seemed long but thanks to half an Ambien, I slept well on the 8 hour flight to Belgium. Unfortunately the expired Ambien didn’t do the same trick for dad. Upon arrival, we immediately checked into the Marriott in Brussels, showered and forced ourselves to “hit the town”. We took a bus downtown and boy were we glad we did. The drive would have been harrowing. The bus ride itself was a kin to a taxi ride in Italy with the bus just inches away from the closest car.

We sat down in the Italian Section of Brussels for a bit of oven baked pizza. Who gets pizza when they first arrive in Belgium…but we were starving and couldn’t wait. After sitting for an hour, we felt rejuvenated enough to venture out sightseeing.
We gave ourselves a walking tour. Of course we had to see the "The Mannequin Pis", the famous statue of the “little boy peeing”. They dress him up for different occasions and on this day he was dressed in a smart jacket and looked so professional doing his job!
The streets are lined with chocolate shops galore. We did treat ourselves to a macaroon in one of the bakeries (absolutely delicious) but decided not to eat chocolate for a while due to the addictive qualities of the substance. We’ll let you know the verdict when we finally partake. I am sure it will be tomorrow.
We went to the Grand Place, and wow, was it Grand. This is a full town square of buildings built in the late 1600’s to house the guilds; butchers guild, cabinet makers guild, etc. I will post some photos but they will not do justice to the architecture of this town square. Magnificent!
The window shopping was fun and dinner at La Belle Epoque topped off a perfect day! Oh, did I mention that before dinner, we drove to see "Atomium" an incredible gigantic atom, (probably 20 stories tall) that was a work of art built for the world's fair in 1958. It lights up at night and once again, no photos would do it justice. (I didn't take any because I left the sd card at the hotel in my computer.
Oh by the way, we couldn’t wait until tomorrow to taste some belgian chocolate. We are in trouble now. We will be rolling home in 2 weeks.
We wondered about Connor all day but can see on the family blog that he made it safely.
Hugs and Kisses to all of you. Wish you were here!

Where in the World?

2009-03-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

I am married to a man who dreams big and then makes his dreams come true. He has served as the Bishop of the Holladay 25th Ward for the past 5 years and has always told me that upon his release, he would take a trip across the country, mostly on bicycle. Well, those plans are still in the works (he has served 5 years this May) but right now, we are going to Europe to watch Connor cycle with the US National Junior's Team! I always planned to set up a site so that Dave could record the travels of his "Where in the World is Dave O'Leary" adventure, but in light of our upcoming trip I have started this site early.

Good luck Connor as you represent the US of A! Enjoy every moment of riding in Europe. You deserve it. You are like your dad, you dream big, and them make your dreams come true.

Live the Dream!