My Leather Life

I've Been Nudged. Again!

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 01:21:21 GMT

Okay i'm gonna make this short and sweet.
1)Paris was Great (Pictures to come, sooner or later)
2)Mike and I are hitting the skids again and dont know if we can hold on any longer.
3)Work has been killing me physically and mentally
4)It's getting harder to stay afloat and close to giving up on my car.
5)Applied for 10 serious jobs and 8 part-time gigs.
6)Was rejected for 8 serious jobs and 6 part-time gigs.
7)Was ditched at Gay days
8)Convertible top isnt working
9)Long hair is a Bitch to maintain
10)I finally caved in to peer pressure and got a myspace page!!!!!! ARGH!!!!!
11)I've had a cold for the past week
12)I lost my frigging YSL perscription glasses

1)i'm still alive
2)I get to go cycling tomorrow
3)I got a lead on a job
4)I have Family
5)I have my Leather Family
6)I have you as my friends

So all in all not to bad, i just have to be patient and think good thoughts. The universe is bound to hear my cries.

No Hooters Bar in PARIS!!!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 18:13:53 GMT

Hey All

I arrived back into the Good U.S. of A! i'll post more as soon as i get a regular sleeping pattern. But here is a few points i'd like point out.

1) The American currency versus the Euro is INSANE! a can of Coca Cola made in europe 2 euro convertion thats roughly $3.

2) The the entire week in Paris i only saw 3 hot guys. the Customs Officer arriving and 2 other guys. The 2 other guys werent even French, their German tourist. Mike was in French Euro Boy/Bel Ami boy heaven.

3)Euro Disney is about the 1/16 the size of Disneyland. But the Space Mountain:Mission 2 Fucking Rocked. Now i know why Europeans are disappointed with our LA version.

4)France has a great subway system, but you have to walk everywhere.

5) Food Portions are the size of your fist and 3times as expensive.

More to come......thank god i'm home

Anyone wanna go to Hooters wit me tonight?

I've been Nudged!

Sat, 16 Sep 2006 09:30:02 GMT

So i get Nudged by alphapup because i havent posted in a while. So here goes.
I've been feeling a bit over worked lately and been really stressed about things. Even with Summer camp and having a great time, i still have some things really weighting my mind. I really have been searching for answers and am either afraid of the answers and results or just dont know where to get started. Here's the List of Crap.

1) At summer camp i had to defend myself, because of the life i lead. Someone thought it was okay to put me down for no other reason than to make them feel better. And that actually got to me. I make no lies about the life i lead, its my life and i'm happy with it. If comparing your life to mine gives you a sense of superiority then great. It just lets me know that no matter what you say doesnt really matter. Yeah you make more money than me, but there is more to life than what you have. I can easily say i'm the riches hard working poor guy. I may not have a fancy car, live in a apartment, and travel the world. But i'm Rich in others way he will never have.

2) I've been working like a dog trying to keep my head afloat and i end up being over qualified for the most basic jobs. If that isnt a double edged sword. I'm to smart to work as a cashier, yet i can get a job at FedEx? Someone explain that to me?

3)There are things i really dont want to share just yet. Some things are just way to private.

I hope that isnt way too vague. Hope my Vacation helps calm me down.

A Shitty Week

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 08:49:05 GMT

Tuesday was bad, had one of my molars pulled out, and staved and bleed all evening. Wednesday i found out my boss is posting another shift bid because of lack of man-power. This is terrible news because i may end up with different days of. I loved having Sunday/Monday off because i can play softball and run errands on Monday. I may end up with Friday Saturday Evening shift from 3:30-12am. The biggest bitch is that i wont be able to go to anymore Dodger games for the season on top of that. Thursday i had to teardown and move a entire bay full of engine generators and parts into a smaller space. To top it off all the dust i inhaled made it hard to breath all night. And this morning i got another rejection for a job i wanted, because it required a associate degree, even though my work experience was acceptable. So i went from being over qualified to be a cashier/stock clerk to being unable to hold a assistant job at a non-profit. So after a tough week i get shitted on, then told i'm not educated enough to work a remedial job. i decided to go out to Oil Can Harry's to try to forget about the week. i took a nap, shower and got all gussied up, the whole nine yards. I was having a great time, and took my cowboy hat off. Because of all my Friggin hair, it doesnt fit correctly. so i placed it on the chair next to me and befre i could say anything my friend Steven sat on my hat!!! To make matters worst Mike's been out to Roswell New Mexico for 2 weeks now. He was supposed to be back today, but now the aircraft in a Overhaul is placed on hold because of parts isses. He wont be back till Sunday the earliest and Tuesday the Latest. I miss him dearly and need a friggin hug. Thats it for now, i have to work tomorrow so hopefully the madness ends. If not i'll seriously go Bonkers, who knows i might actually drink a whole beer on sunday. who am kidding i'll just hold it.

Pay it Forward

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 06:41:50 GMT

Sunday afternoon i was getting jazzed about getting to the Rodeo. Sunday was my day to just relax and unwind. As i wound my way through Burbank to the equestrian center, i was looking at all the cyclist riding by and checking out their bikes. As i'm driving along i saw a Orbea Onix in orange (dream bike) and a few Treks too. As i was stopped at a light about a block from the LA Equestrian center i saw a guy walking his bike.

And i know what that "walk" a mile away. So i rolled down my window and said, "Excuse me Sir? Do you need tools or a tube?" As the light turned green he replied, "Would you have a spare tube i can buy from you?" Before i could answer the car behind me honked and i had to drive forward. I pulled over flipped a bitch. I asked what was wrong, he had a flat about four miles from where we stopped. This man was parked in the front of Griffith Park about another 4 miles from where we're stopped. I asked if he had a spare, and it turned out that when he used his hand pump he pulled the valve right off the stem. He had pulled the valve right off and couldnt inflat his tired anymore. So i offered him my spare tube in my bike bag, this man was a pro, he had his tire fixed in about 5 minutes. I still had my floor pump in the car and he asked, why i had so much gear in my car. I told him i just finished the AidsLifeCycle and am training with a group of friends. It also turned out his daughter did the AidsLifeCycle 2. It was a small world, he was very greatful that i stopped and helped. He was very grateful and offered me $20 for the spare tube.

I'll be honest, i'm broke as a joke and going to Rodeo was budgeted for the next 2 weeks i would have no problems taking the $20. But i couldnt, the tube didnt cost more than 5 bucks and it didnt feel right. So i told the man Frank was his name that "Thanks" is Thanks enough. I just told him, that if he sees someone with a flat around Griffith park to help them. And who knows it maybe be me he has to help out when i get a flat in the park.

I didnt think anything much after that, Rodeo was a blast. I got hit on by a Hot bear and of course got embarrassed and ran away. It was a fun time, but i do have a question. If i was a fellow cyclist and i saw someone on the road who needed help i would have atleast asked if they need help. On the drive to the Equestrian center i saw at least 7 cyclist on the road, why did nobody ask??? I also thought why didnt the gentleman flag down a cyclist and ask for help???

For all my ALC riders, my LABoL Cycle team and LJ friends. We all have the ability to either Ignore those in need or Help those we can. We may not be able to help everyone in the world, but we can all cause miracles in small ways.

Day Zero

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 22:41:09 GMT

The Day started off at 7am, I was awake before the alarm went off. I heard mom on the kitchen clanging pots and pans around. Mikey was out like a light, and I went to get dressed and print out directions to City Cycles. Day Zero is at the Cow Palace from 8am to 4pm, I didn’t know what to expect so I wanted to get there at noon. I have heard that checking in can be as fast as 1 ½ hours or as long as 3 hours. Mom was downstairs making Pancit Palabok, my favorite with all the fix’ins. After a hearty breakfast we all packed up the car and headed for SF. The traffic wasn’t bad till we hit the Bay Bridge. (Big Surprise)

As we made our way through town trying to find City Cycles, as luck would have it the main road it was on was shut down for a street fair. So we drove around till we found a parking spot near the street to the store and our luck changed. The last barricaded street was the street we needed, and there was parking right across the street. We all piled out of the car and went in to one of my new favorite Toy store. City Cycles had everything I wanted, I was looking for a basic pair of Castelli shorts($85). Castelli makes great cycle clothing, but is really on the higher end pricing. So as I’m looking at the shorts I realize that the store doesn’t carry the basic shorts. City Cycle only carries the Advance racing shorts ($129) I wasn’t about to ask my sister to buy me that. I went straight for the sales rack. The sales rack didn’t have anything for me, cycling clothes are very unforgiving. You can’t squeeze into a smaller size because you’ll look like 10 lbs of meat in a 3 lbs bag, you can’t buy a larger size because you risk the chance of it slipping or sliding off. The main reason for the different price in shorts is the material and the padding. So the staff seeing I was in such a need started to help me find some things. The staff at City Cycles found me a pair of Castelli shorts for $85 bucks; it was the City Cycle team gear. The best thing was it was the right price, it was a great design, and it was blue that matched the Castelli Jersey I bought myself for my birthday, and on top of that it was a the racing shorts. My sister and brother –in-law saw the look on my face and told me that I could get more things, and it would be okay. After to stuffed my urge to breakdown into tears, I went to get a few more thing I really needed. I haven’t been able to buy much so I went to the sale bin and picked up cycling socks 2 more pairs at $7ea. The sales staff ran down the gear checklist off the top of their heads. “Gloves?” I told her that I lost mine a few weeks ago and don’t really need them. “She looked me dead in the eyes and said, “Your going to need them.” So she looked for a pair for $20 bucks. She looked me in the eyes again and said, “I been cycling for years, you Will need them.” And after we started to check out my sister paid for the whole lot. I thought I was gonna cry on the spot, the cashier asked, “Do you know how to get to Cow Palace?” I had an idea where it’s located; I figure there would be signs. With everything said and done, I got gear and directions to get to Cow Palace. City Cycles Rocks! Gear count: 4 jerseys, 4 shorts, 3 socks, and gloves.

After a short drive, we found Cow Palace, as we drive up there was people cheering us through the parking lot. I felt a great welcome, I felt like a hero of sorts. I really don’t think what I am doing is special for a long time, but I felt good about myself in that split second. I repacked my new gear, unloaded the bike. I told my family I would call them when I was done with orientation. Orientation was really fast; I had achieved my minimum participant goal and returned my medical form. The only thing I had to do was
Check-in for my bike tag “6580”, watch the “Safety” video and be assigned a tent mate. Everything took about 1 1/2 hours. Let me tell you it was a variable meat market. No Pun intended considering it was at Cow Palace. I was looking around and I swore up and down my neck was going to snap off. After I had completed my duties I had one last stop at the ALC store. I managed to reach the $3500 incentive, but not my last Major sponsor never made a pledge to put me at $5000 for my Jersey Incentive. I went to the store and picked up my hard earned Fleece Vest. I did have spending money in case of bike trouble, when I saw the ALC 5 Jersey. It was affordable and it was gonna be the one souvenir I wanted to buy. I called my sister to pick me up and I was a beyond excited. The “thought” wasn’t gonna sink in till I was on a bike tomorrow. I got check-in to my motel and off we went to SF.

Gear Count: 5 Jerseys 4 Shorts 3 Socks and Gloves.

Through out the Day my family and I went down to Fisherman’s Wharf and did the touristy things, took pictures, window-shopped and had Clam Chowder in a Bread bowl. All in all a great afternoon with my family, but it was time to get some rest. Back to South SF to get a full night of sleep, as we pulled up to the Motel I felt sad. Sad because it was time to say good-bye. Being alone has never been a problem for me usually, but I doubt myself in times where I go through the unknown. I doubt my abilities, did I plan enough, did I research enough, and did I train enough? I don’t fear the upcoming 7 days, I fear that there will be nobody to help pick me up if I fall. As I said my good-byes and hugged everyone, Mike said the best thing.

“Be Safe, Hydrate, and No Hot-Dogging. (Watch my Downhill speed)

I replied the usual way, like a chastised kid.

“I….will……” sigh and eye roll up.

That was enough for me to get me back to excitement mode. I started to prep for my Day 1. I called for a 4am wake up call and laid out my gear on the bed ready to wake up bright eyed and bushy tailed. Of course I ended up staying up the rest of the night, because I was so excited.
The last time I looked at my watch it was 1:23.

I Just Had Too

Fri, 14 Jul 2006 05:33:20 GMT

(Click here to post your own answers for this meme.)

✓ I miss somebody right now. (Patrick)	✓ I don't watch much TV these days. (I don't own one)	✓ I own lots of books. (Basicly its my TV)
✓ I wear glasses or contact lenses. (Glasses mostly for driving at night.)	✓ I love to play video games. (RPG)	× I've tried marijuana. (Why?)
× I've watched porn movies. (Yes, its the closes to Sex i get during the month)	× I have been the psycho-ex in a past relationship. (Not that anyone has remained alive to tell me)	× I believe honesty is usually the best policy. (Usually)
✓ I curse sometimes. (All the Fucking Time)	✓ I have changed a lot mentally over the last year. (yikes!)	✓ I carry my knife/razor everywhere with me. (I work with boxes and i'm ghetto, i need something to cut a bitch with. "Wheres my Money Bitch")

* * * * *

× I have broken someone's bones. (Nobodys asked yet)	✓ I have a secret that I am ashamed to reveal. (Who Doesnt!)	× I hate the rain. (Tennis in the rain rocks.)
× I'm paranoid at times. (nope)	× I would get plastic surgery if it were 100% safe, free of cost, and scar-free. (i want to get rid of all the scars i've picked up through the years)	× I need/want money right now. (My Car is trapped at the shop, anyone have 300bucks to get it out?)
✓ I love sushi. (Sushi MAC)	× I talk really, really fast. (i have a tendency to say "like" 8 million times)	✓ I have fresh breath in the morning. (Burp.....yum Chipotle)
✓ I have long hair. (Locks of Love in memory of my Auntie Remy)	✓ I have lost money in Las Vegas. (No more than 50bucks. Why Gamble when you can Buffet)	✓ I have at least one sibling. (3 all older, one right after the other. Then i was the Surprise 3 years later and my mom was 42)
✓ I was born in a country outside of the U.S. (Philippines)	× I have worn fake hair/fingernails/eyelashes in the past. (Whaaaa?)	× I couldn't survive without Caller I.D. (huh?)
✓ I like the way that I look. (Lifes simple and so am I)	× I have lied to a good friend in the last 6 months. (nope, my friends can tell when i'm lying)	× I am usually pessimistic. (40% of the time)
× I have a lot of mood swings. (depends on who i'm talking to.)	✓ I think prostitution should be legalized. (Yup, i'd get more clients)	× I slept with a roommate. (nope, all female)
× I have a hidden talent. (I have no talent)	✓ I'm always hyper no matter how much sugar I have. (I'm a Spaz/Slacker)	✓ I have a lot of friends. (I'm blessed to have every single one of them)
✓ I have pecked someone of the same sex. (Your Serious?)	✓ I enjoy talking on the phone. (yup)	× I practically live in sweatpants or PJ pants.
✓ I love to shop and/or window shop. (Hello am i not asian. Shopping With or Without money is an Asian Sport)	× I'm obsessed with my Xanga or Livejournal. (I would be if i learned to type)	× I'm completely embarrassed to be seen with my mother. (Love my Momma. Shes my Rock!)
× I have a mobile phone. (hello i live in California)	× I have passed out drunk in the past 6 months. (when was the last time someone saw me drink)	× I've rejected someone before. (it happens)
× I currently like/love someone. (Yup)	× I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life. (Be HAPPY)	× I want to have children in the future. (2 maybe 3)
× I have changed a diaper before. (yup)	× I've called the cops on a friend before. (Cops arent really any help, thats what a Maglite is for)	× I'm not allergic to anything. (I'm allergic to straight porn)
× I have a lot to learn. (always)	× I am shy around the opposite sex. (nope)	× I'm online 24/7, even as an away message. (i need sleep too)
× I have at least 5 away messages saved. (how is that possible)	× I have tried alcohol or drugs before. (Wine with a Dinner)	✓ I have made a move on a friend's significant other or crush in the past. (It was what i wanted for a long time and it was mutual but everything was tense afterwards.)
× I own the "South Park" movie. (not yet, who know Satan was a Bottom?)	× I have avoided assignments at work/school to be on Xanga or Livejournal. (.......)	✓ I enjoy some country music. (Country and Rap)
× I would die for my best friends. (Yup, i've lead a good life, and wouldnt mind)	× I'm obsessive, and often a perfectionist. (LOL)	× I have used my sexuality to advance my career. (Nope)
× I think Halloween is awesome because you get free candy. (SWEET!)	× I have dated a close friend's ex. (nope)	× I am happy at this moment. (Yup)
× I'm obsessed with guys. (I'm not obsessed, i just like to suck Cock)	✓ Democrat. (Lesser of 2 evils)	× Republican. (Evil)
× I don't even know what I am. (Fat Broke Gay Asian with a good heart)	× I am punk rockish. (I own a Ramones Album does that count)	✓ I go for older guys/girls, not younger. (Yes, I dont want to have to wake up to my partner saying, " I have a hair on my chest ")
× I study for tests most of the time. (LOL)	× I tie my shoelaces differently from anyone I've ever met. (Whaa???)	✓ I can work on a car. (If Chilton makes a walk through i'm all over it. I dont fuck with European electric systems. I'm a R&R kind of guy.)
× I love my job(s). (Yup)	✓ I am comfortable with who I am right now. (Always)	× I have more than just my ears pierced. (Owwweeeee)
× I walk barefoot wherever I can. (Reminds me of back home)	× I have jumped off a bridge. (Not Yet)	× I love sea turtles. (The Fuck???????)
× I spend ridiculous amounts of money on makeup. (Again The Fuck you say?)	✓ I plan on achieving a major goal/dream. (Be a home owner)	✓ I am proficient on a musical instrument. (Tenor Sax)
✓ I hate office jobs. (Cubicles scare me)	× I went to college out of state. (LOL)	× I am adopted. (I wonder sometimes, where my home planet is)
× I am a pyro. (Plastic spoons never stood a chance)	× I have thrown up from crying too much. (wha????)	✓ I have been intentionally hurt by people that I loved. (Yup its called life)
× I fall for the worst people. (I've been lucky)	✓ I adore bright colours. (I like Orange)	✓ I usually like covers better than originals. (Are you nuts)
× I hate chain theme restaurants like Applebees and TGIFridays. (LOVE me some HOOTERS!!!)	✓ I can pick up things with my toes. (I'm too lazt to bend over to pick things up)	× I can't whistle. (I can Woof and Yell)
✓ I have ridden/owned a horse. (Love Horses)	✓ I still have every journal I've ever written in. (All in storage)	✓ I talk in my sleep. (Yup, it get me in trouble)
× I've often thought that I was born in the wrong century. (Nope)	✓ I try to forget things by drowning them out with loads of distractions. (Food=distractions)	× I wear a toe ring. (again....why?)
✓ I have a tattoo. (Just one so far)	× I can't stand at LEAST one person that I work with. (nope)	× I am a caffeine junkie. (MOUNTAIN DEW=Life)
× I am completely tree-huggy spiritual, and I'm not ashamed at all. (sometimes)	× If I knew I would get away with it, I would commit at least one murder. (I plead the 5th)	✓ I will collect anything, and the more nonsensical, the better. (just Dodger Bobbleheads)
✓ I enjoy a nice glass of wine with dinner. (Shafer Vineyard Cabernet)	✓ I'm an artist. (i can be helpful)	✓ I am ambidextrous. (Nope jusy Gay)
× I sleep with so many stuffed animals, I can hardly fit on my bed. (Nope)	× If it weren't for having to see other people naked, I'd live in a nudist colony. (Does Colt and Titan Media have a colony?)	✓ I have terrible teeth. (Black and decker dont have shit on me.)
× I hate my toes. (again, why?)	× I did this meme even though I wasn't tagged by the person who took it before me. (damn you all!!!!!)	× I have more friends on the internet than in real life. (How is that a bad thing)
× I have lived in either three different states or countries. (Philippines LA and Erie PA)	✓ I am extremely flexible. (Nope, my stomach get in the way and its gets hard to Breathe)	✓ I love hugs more than kisses. (Hugs)
✓ I want to own my own business. (I want to design clothes (yup i'm gay))	✓ I smoke. (I can Smoke Tri-Tip)	✓ I spend way too much time on the computer than on anything else. (70% of the time)
× Nobody has ever said I'm normal. (No Comment)	× Sad movies, games, and the like can cause a trickle of tears every now and then. (Color Purple always makes me CRY.)	✓ I am proficient in the use of many types of firearms and combat weapons. (Yes)
✓ I like the way women look in stylized men's suits. (Huh?)	✓ I don't like it when people are unpleased or seem unpleased with me. (Yes, i like to make people happy)	✓ I have been described as a dreamer or likely to have my head up in the clouds. (Too Realistic to be a dreamer)
✓ I have played strip poker with someone else before. (Thats how i learned to play and count cards)	× I have had emotional problems for which I have sought professional help. (LOL)	✓ I believe in ghosts and the paranormal. (Oh yeah, my Dads always following me around making sure i dont Fuck up too much.)
✓ I can't stand being alone. (for a few hours)	✓ I have at least one obsession at any given time. (Clothes)	× I weigh myself, pee/poo, and then weigh myself again. (EWWWWWW)
✓ I consistently spend way too much money on obsessions-of-the-moment. (YUP)	× I'm a judgmental asshole. (I'm not one to Judge)	× I'm a HUGE drama-queen. (When it comes to Dodgers)
✓ I have travelled on more than one continent. (Yup except Africa)	× I sometimes wish my father would just disappear. (I miss my dad.)	✓ I need people to tell me I'm good at something in order to feel that I am. (i need validation)
× I am a Libertarian. (A Wha????? Isnt that a Band)	✓ I can speak more than one language. (Taglog and ASL)	× I can fall asleep even if the whole room is as noisy as it can be. (I need silence)
✓ I would rather read than watch TV. (Oh Yeah, Reading is my vacation from the world)	× I like reading fact more than fiction. (I read it all)	✓ I have pulled an all-nighter on an assignment I was given a month to do. (Hello, i'm not a slacker for nothing)
✓ I have no piercings. (just temporary ones)	✓ I have spent the night in a train station or other public place. (Airports around the world. the best is Hong Kong they charge you $10 a night)	× I have been so upset over my physical gender that I cried. (I love being a man, I can stand to pee)
× I once spent Christmas completely alone because there was a miscommunication on which parent was supposed to have me that night. (CHristmas=Family)	✓ There have been times when I have wondered "Why was I born?" and may/may not have cried over it. (I have those moments)	✓ I like most animals better than most people. (Oh hell yeah)
× I own a collection of retro games consoles. (Nintendo)	× The thought of physical exercise makes me shiver. (Not anymore)	× I have hit someone with a dead fish. (Not YET)
× I am compulsively honest. (Nope)	✓ I was born with a congenital birth defect that has never been repaired. (irregular heart beat)	✓ I have danced topless in front of dozens of complete strangers. (Ahh, the Go-go boy years)
× I have gone from wishing I was a girl to revelling in being a boy to feeling like a girl again in the span of five minutes, and not cared a whit for my actual sex. (Who comes up with these questions?)	✓ I am unashamedly bisexual, and have different motivations for my desires for different genders. (I love Men and Bears)	× I sometimes won't sleep a whole night or eat a whole day because I forget to. (Have you seen me, i'm food propelled)
× I find it impossible to get to sleep without some kind of music on. (Silence)	× I dislike milk. (its gotta be really really cold)	× I obsessively wash my hands. (Have you seen me work)
× I always carry something significant around with me. (My laptop)	× Sometimes I'd rather wear a wig in day-to-day life than use my own hair. (nope)	× I've pushed myself to become more self-aware and thereby more aware of others. (Yeah, and its a bitch sometimes)
× Even though I live on my own I still cry sometimes because I miss my mother. (nope, i just come over to the house if i have no money for food)	× I hand wrote all the HTML tags in this document. (huh)	× I've liked something which a majority of people claimed was either bad or weird. (Gloryholes)
× I have been clinically dead for a brief period of time. (NO seriously who writes these questions)	× Instead of feeling sympathy/empathy with people and their problems, I simply become annoyed. (quit your bitching)	× I participate/have participated in auto drag races and won. (Racing down the Shaw on saturday night)
× I do not 'get' most comedy acts. (nope)	× I don't think strippers are money-greedy or slutty for dancing. (Never its a living)	× I don't like to chew gum. (wha?)
× I am obsessed with history/historical things and can't wait for someone to build a time machine so I can be the first to use it. (OKay this is getting ridiculious)	× I can never remember for the life of me where I parked the car. (Just call me Tom-Tom)	× I had the TEEN ANGST thing going for at least 2-3 years. (More like 6 years before really coming out)
× I wish people would be more empathic and honest with each other. (to a point)	× I play Dungeons and Dragons weekly. (Whats that?)	× I love to sing. (Hello ANother Asian Sport Kareoke)
× I want to live in my mother's basement when I grow up. (SWEET!)	× I have a custom-built computer. (Built by the chinese designed by Ives and brain child of Jobs)	✓ I want to create a certain someone's babies, even though there's a 0% possiblity of ever achieving it. (My Partner and I have a child)
× I would be in a relationship with one of my pets if they were human. (Hello a Pet?????)	× I've gone skinny-dipping. (ALC5)	× I've performed in three plays. (Working, Romeo and Juliet, Bowl of Beans)
× I enjoy burritos. (CHIPOTLE)	× I'm Irish and loving it. (only by injection)	× I have a thing for redheads. (FUCK ME NOW!)
× I am a twin! (oh god NO!)	× Most of the times, I'd rather do something intellectual instead of doing something generically 'fun'. (FUN!)	× Once I set out to finish something, I always stay at it until it is completed before I move on to something else. (Nope i Juggle)
× I wish there were a way to erase past mistakes. (Nope its who i am today)	× I sleep more than 12 hours a day. (LORD KNOW I TRY)	× I wish I could be prouder of what I've accomplished, but it's never enough. (egh??)
× I need more time to myself. (nope)	× I wish I was more open-minded. (yup, someone explin infantilism)	× I hope that I go really prematurely grey. (i started grey my Senior year)
× I download songs from the internet. (Itunes rock)	× I've just reenacted chapter 58 of Death Note with my best friend. (Whats that?)	× I say random things to freak people out. (Wheres the fun in that?)
× I'm still a little mad about the ending of Death Note. (?????)	× I love playing Truth or Dare. (OH YEAH! Its the best place to learn about your enemies)	× I love listening to slow music, but I hate singing to it. (like it both)
✓ Music helps me remember that I am not alone. (Yup, makes work go by faster)	✓ Playing my favorite sport makes me temporarily forget my problems. (Softball rocks)	✓ I think this survey is particularly long. (YUP!)
× I prefer my LJ friends to my real-life ones. (Nope)	× I can only hate someone that I love. (Aint that the truth)	× I've ordered an extra two shots of espresso to an Americano at Starbucks. (Earl Grey)

My AidsLifeCycle Journey

Fri, 30 Jun 2006 15:13:44 GMT

Aids Life Cycle 5
Rider# 6580
By Othello Cuenca

Friday June 2, 2005

Plan A: Drive to Elk Grove and visit me sister and brother-in-law.

After a 6-hour drive, Mom, Mike and I arrived in Elk Grove CA. Mike had been in flashback mode all morning, he had grown up in northern California from Sacramento to Elks Grove to Manteca to San Luis Obispo. He was telling me about bits of his childhood, that he never brought up before. It was really surprising he told me about his childhood, it was amazing to hear about that grey area of his life.

My sister was working till 3 and we arrived at 2pm, there just happened to be a Target off the exit ramp so my Mom and I both got the Target itch. Picked up a few odds and ends, most importantly a travel size of Aloe Vera after sun lotion. Mike finally pried mom and I away from the store my sister met up with us. We followed her to there new home. It was amazing 2 story home, 3 bedroom 2 ½ bath, with a big backyard and a loft. After the grand tour the Château we started to unload my gear for Day Zero. We waited for my brother-in-law to get done with work and off we went to go Shopping. (The “Other” Asian Sport).

For my birthday the week before I asked my family to buy me cycle clothing. As in any sport, equipment is expensive. Cycle clothing is very important not for fashion statements, but for the comfort of the ride. I asked my sister to buy me a cycle jersey because I couldn’t afford to buy them. So off we went to Sports Authority and again couldn’t find anything in my size, being a stocky guy, everything I bought was a XL. We stopped at a Big5 and found a large Pearl Izumi jersey for me and I asked my mom to buy it for me. I felt sad that I couldn’t afford it and had to ask for here to buy it for me, it’s still hard to swallow my pride. I wanted a specific pair of shorts from Castelli. For Day Zero, before I checked in my gear I asked if we could go to City Cycles in SF. Afterwards we went to have dinner at a local sushi restaurant that was fun and very modern. It was delicious and I was stuffed full of protein.

Came home and was stuffed and packed my new jersey. My count was now 3 shorts and 4 jerseys.Then I worked on my bike "Blue" for a bit, i couldnt afford a touring seat, so i swapped my mountain bike seat for the stock seat from my road bike. Mike was upstairs updating computers and talking to my brother in law, Mom was talking to my sister and I was booking my room in south SF for a cheap hotel. Motel 6 here I come! Off to bed I went, because the drive to SF from Sacramento is 2 hours. Leaving LA very earlier this morning and as the night got later I was out like a light as soon as I got out of bed. I still can’t believe I’m doing it, this experience will change everything.

IML 2006 Part1

Fri, 30 Jun 2006 15:04:50 GMT

The plan originally was to work all day Thursday and try for the red eye flight direct to Chicago. And as a Plan B fly out of orange county direct. Well I got a phone call from my friend Sean that he was in the terminal catching the 3ish flight to Chicago, so I visited him and got him some pre-flight stuff. (Bottle of water and gum) He wanted to meet up and some bondage play. Woohoo! With my luck the 4ish flight had 2 seats in First and Sean told me that if I make it on the red eye to stay with him till I could check into my hotel. Well I figure if I catch the 4ish flight I’ll only be an hour behind Sean. Needless to say that as soon as I ask my boss if I could clock out early did a delayed O’Hare flight cancelled, that meant the passengers would get shuffled to my flight I was going to standby on. Oh well, it wasn’t meant to be. So back to plan A which was to try for the two red eye flights, the 1st flight was full of standby people, I was number 89 waiting for a seat. My chances looked really bleak, the 2nd flight was delayed till 1:20am. I was number 64 on standby, I crossed my fingers and prayed. Didn’t make it either so I went to a computer station and looked at my plan B, Plan “B” was cancelled too. Life was being really cruel to me. So after looking at different routes to Chicago, I had a semi slim chance to fly to Denver then Chicago. It was going to be a big chance for me because I had only two flight to make it to Chicago, if I didn’t make the two I had no other choice to fly back to LA and call it quits. And the flight back to LA also was slim, the chance of getting stuck in Denver was high. After going to bed at 2am I woke up at 5am to catch the 6am Denver flight, I got on and got a exit row seat too, things started to look up. With a miracle in Denver, 2 seat became open and a family of 4 was in front of me, so I prayed again that they wouldn’t split up 2 this flight 2 on the next one. Again another miracle, the family didn’t split and I got one of the seats and it was the bulkhead seat, extra legroom! I was on my way to Chicago, IML here I come.

A short trip on the L and I popped up right in front of the Palmer House hotel. As I made my way though the lobby it was a sea of men. I ran into a few people from the LA contingency, checked in and made my way up to the room. My Darling wife slave_pug , and a2andy was there getting things put away. I was beyond hungry and we decided to have dinner and pick up snacks too. Andy spotted a Thai restaurant around the corner and I discovered a Barnes and Noble on one block. It was a twofer for me. The “Rice” gauge read full and I could walk around and find a book to read. After dinner we hit the drug store and got a ice chest, beers, and Gatorade. As we made our way back to our room, I made a few comments about hoping Daddy (Gene) was going to be okay. I was afraid that the cancelled flight from the previous day would cause a overbooking and a deny boarding situation. I was genuinely worried. But around 9pm he arrived and off to dinner we went. Dinner was great and to the lobby for more socializing. I was really tired from the flight and started not to feel well. The day was a blur to me all I know is that I was asleep shortly after.

Saturday morning brought the vendor booth and meeting up with friends and a Boys reception thanks to the Windy City Boys of Leather. It was a great time, a fellow member of Phoenix Boys of Leather had a friend that bought a new straight jacket , so I helped him into it. (I’m a good boy, so helpful and caring) Pug made a club announcement about Stars and Stripes and excused ourselves shortly after. The Chicago Hellfire Club cocktail reception was to follow. After a bit of socializing Daddy came in and we made more introductions and re-introductions. Saw a few people from Summer camp, David and his partner Matthew, hunky Paul with his camera. After a while I wasn’t feeling any better so I went back to the room for a nap. I need the rest, my stomach was upset with me, and I had so much gas if I was in the smoking patio there would have been a explosion. (I know TMI) I wanted to rest up for tonight, Pug honored me by asking me to Handle her at the Pup Moshing. I wanted to be refreshed as possible for her, I wouldn’t want to disappoint my wife. After all we’ve only been married for
1 ½, I want to be a good husband.

Voice Post

Sat, 10 Jun 2006 04:47:18 GMT

Voice Post

Fri, 09 Jun 2006 04:38:45 GMT

Voice Post

Thu, 08 Jun 2006 13:05:47 GMT

30 mintues till Day Zero

Sat, 03 Jun 2006 06:33:26 GMT

It's 11:30 and i cant sleep. maybe its the excitement , maybe its the stress. who really knows. But this is the last written post for a while. Just want to sign off and say Thanks for the support and Love. I'm gonna try doing the voice post every two days, cause as a sponsored level i only have 5 voice post a month. So i'll keep the short and sweet. I cant believe how far i've come. Everyone be well. and see you in the funny pages.

SF or Bust

Fri, 02 Jun 2006 06:25:13 GMT

Okay this is it. I have made the minimum amount and i'm heading to SF first light. I want to extend a Thanks for all my sponsors, friends, family, and community members. I hope to make you proud. See you all in 7 days. there is a link www.experience.aidslifecycle.org if you'd like to write me. They will print a daily bulletin board with e-mail. So hope to hear from you all.

Truly
Othello

Aids Life Cycle 5 Updates

Tue, 23 May 2006 22:12:29 GMT

Things are so whirl wind with me, so here a Readers Digest version of my Progress.

1)With the Help of the LA boys of Leather, BearsLA, and a Fundraiser I made my $2500 minimum!!! I’m currently at $3125, it doesn’t look like I’ll get my Jersey Goal or the Limited Edition Vest but at least I made it this far. A complete 2 complete strangers gave me a $250 donation one night.

2) Bike Envy got to me and I took out a loan from my 401K. I invested in a Cannondale R700 2005 closeout. It was all I could afford and cycling on a Road bike VS Mountain bike is easier. I figure if I work 1-2 extra shifts every week I’ll be okay.

3) I still have no cycle gear yet, so for my birthday I registered at REI. Hopefully my family will get me some gear. I only have 2 bike shorts and 2 jerseys. (Yikes) David a friend of mine was a CAR rider and he gave me a bag of jerseys and a pair or Cannondale shoes! One jersey fits but the others make me look like 10 pounds of meat in a 3 pound bag. But I am thankful never the less.

4) Still no Tent Mate for the Ride. I pray that it be a big beefy Colt model.

5) Doing some hill climbs with the Compact Double, its getting easier most days.

SF Here I Come!

First Blood and other Evils

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 17:15:49 GMT

First Blood and other Evils

Training Day 42

After a much successful 37mile ride a few weeks ago, I decided to up the ante and try the 47mile bike ride. I mean what’s a extra 10miles? And I’ve been riding a lot and lately, I figured I might as well give it a shot. What could possibly go wrong? (Almost Everything)

Friday night, I got my dance on at Oil Can Harrys and promoted my ALC fundraiser. I was asked to speak on stage about what the ride was about and why it very important to me. I told the crowd to bring extra cash and hopefully I can get some more donors. I stayed out way to late. So surprise! I woke up and it was 7:15 the ride leaves I. Martin bike shop at 8. Yikes I got dressed as fast as I can and woke up my sister-in-law and begged to drive me to I. Martin. As I pulled up to the shop, again I realized that I am the only rider with a mountain bike. As we headed out I knew that I am determined to do the best I can do. As we wound our way though Beverly Hills it was a bit of a warm up I was wondering why I has breaking a sweat so early. I looked down and I realized that not only did I not have enough time for breakfast, I forgot to inflate my tires from my last ride! (EVIL #1) Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! I figure I’ll be able to keep going and wait till I get to the pit stop and go to the gas station and fill my tires then.

The Bel-Air climbs was next and I got smoke like a turkey. Everyone powered up the hill and I was huffing it. Once I had the first climb up I was done. I took a break for about 5 minutes. Was I really out of shape…..was all the flat training rides just a warm up??? So I thought I’d be able to catch up with everyone Nope the rest of the Bel-Air climb I was on my own,. I was enjoying all the million dollar homes and wondered what kind of people lived in them. New Money, Old Money, TV executives, foreign millionaires, maybe one day I’ll live up here. Then I realized that I love living in the hood, I can walk down the street and buy mango on a stick, corn on a stick with cheese, or have late night carne asada tacos with the local tranny hookers. After a few rollercoaster hills I rounded one bend and a ride leader was there cheering me on. She cheered me on and pointed me down to the right direction, told me to watch my down hill speed, and to watch the traffic crossing Sunset. Barreling down the hill, the breeze was the greatest feeling. I followed the road map and enjoyed riding down Veteran Blvd. I love downhill speeds, so I pedaled a bit faster. At one point there was a motorcycle cop zapping cars for speed. It was too late for me to hit the brakes…..he zapped me a quarter-mile from the intersection. FYI: On a bicycle we count as a moving vehicle and all road rules apply. (At Stop signs cyclist must put one foot planted and wait 3 seconds.) The motorcycle cop drops the speed gun down, and looks straight at me and shakes his head. All I could do was just lower my head in shame flying pass the intersection. I mean I’ve gotten more than my share of Speeding tickets, am I cursed no matter what I drive or pilot I’ll find some way to get a speeding ticket. I stopped pedaling and wait for the Blue and Red. After another quarter mile I turned around and he didn’t follow. THANK YOU GOD!!!!!!

Finally arriving at the pit stop, I was the first one of the back pack to arrive. I took this time to run to the gas station and inflate my tires. I get to the gas station start to undo the valve caps and rifle through my bag. I LOST my Schrader to Presta adaptor!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Evil #2) In defeat I bike back to the pit stop, Ricky one of the ride leaders ask if I was okay, I told him what happened. A nice woman who was sitting next to him, had an adaptor to borrow. Woohoo! I bike back to the gas station and inflated my tires, I was riding on 30psi all morning, and my tire rated was for 45-60psi!!! As soon as I got back to return the adaptor the group started rolling. I wasted too much time I had no time for breakfast. (EVIL #3).

Rolling out of the pit stop the difference with inflated tires was 110% better. The first climb was the Bundy Drive climb up to Mt. Saints Mary’s College. Never road this climb before, Bundy starts a small grade and gets higher little by little. I was dying, not a good idea, one of the other ride leaders came up to me, to give me pointers on how make my bike more road friendly. After a few minutes I had to stop, I told him to go on ahead of me I’ll catch up. Before I knew it 2 sips of water and he was gone. Once I got to the top of Mt Saint Mary’s I was dying and had to Pee! (Evil#4) As I was reaching the summit a fellow rider had a flat. I asked if he was okay. He told me he never changed a tire before, so I stuck around and helped him fix his flat. There was another cyclist climbing up and stopped to ask if we needed help or tools to use, that was a great thing for another cyclist to offer. (Bonus #1 He was Friggin HOT!) Once we both got things in order the hottie went up the hill further into campus and we descended down the hill. I LOVE Descents!

So I hopped on the bike and tucked in and bee-lined it down the hill. I was barreling when I saw this sign. It had the arrow with a sharp turn and a 10. I thought that I would have enough of a curve to shave to corner. Before I knew it I made the bend and all I saw was a tall metal fence and a sharp turn. At my rate of speed I grabbed the breaks I added a bit more pressure to the back tire and I started to drift right. I tire locked up and I started to slide, and luckily I remembered that like a motorcycle if I release the brakes the wheel will grip and snap me back upright. In a panic I saw the fence getting closer and I panic and locked both tires. This time the bike snapped up the brake again then BANG!!!!
The bike stopped but I didn’t. The momentum was so great, now that the angle of the bike is to the right. My fat ass was now moving left, I planted my foot and ditched the bike. I ended up hopping on my left foot a few times but since I’m top heavy my lean was too far to spin my body or continue the momentum in a run format. So I braced for impact! I tucked my legs in, tucked my arms in, and protected my head and neck. BAM! My left calf took first blood, BAM! My hip took the second impact, BAM my shoulder and forearm took the last of the impact. It gets better, my fat ass still had some extra weight to it. Since I was tucked, my legs bounced and start over me and I started to tumble. I know better never to extend my arms out on a roll. I rolled off my shoulder till I finally stopped. Stupidly I jumped up and started to dust myself off and walked to my bike to see if it was okay. (DO NOT MOVE AFTER A CRASH!!! YOU MAY HAVE BROKEN SOMETHING AND THE SHOCK MAY NOT LET YOU FEEL IT IMMEDIATELY!) As I walked back to my bike the rider behind me made it down the hill and asked if I was okay. I told him I was fine. My calf was all road rash, so I hock up some spit and wiped the blood down. My bike made a rattling noise but it was shifting and braking perfectly. As we made our way back down Bundy we got lost and looked at the printed directions. There was a not next to the Mt Saint Mary’s decent. It read
“ Caution WATCH YOUR DOWNHILL SPEED” I need to be more alert and less of a downhill hotdog.

Determined to finish the day, we made our way to Mandeville canyon. I start the climb up and the rider I helped out was worried about me and I told him to go on without me. He started his climb and was gone. As I am taking my time my adrenaline dropped and all of the sudden I need to Pee like a racehorse. (EVIL#6) Now I’m biking up a canyon surrounded by homes, but I remember from a previous ride there was a clearing further up the canyon near the rain run-off channel, I just have to make it. Other ALC riders came climbing up behind me and took off. Now that my bladder was about to explode I made it to the clearing but I made one mistake. I left my bike sitting on the road while I was taking a piss in the channel. And with my luck for the day I’m standing there when all of the sudden a woman’s voice calls out. “Hello anyone there! Are You Injured?” and at this point I’m not talented to shut it off I had to keep going. Wearing red short and a yellow shirt she found me. Before I can reply she found me pissing. “Oh my God, I’m so Sorry! I saw a bike on the road on the ground.” I didn’t know what to do……so I just waved my right hand over my shoulder and waved and said, “ Thank You I’m okay, I just had to Go.” When I finished all I saw was curls of dirt and dust floating away, she was Waaaay gone. Oh well I thought to myself. Got back on the bike and kept going up the canyon, feeling 10,000 better I started to notice that my seat post started to move. I didn’t think anything of it. And just like the rest of the day, I was feeling better when all the sudden my seat post dropped right into the frame. I when from mountain bike to bmx seat sigh in 2 seconds. I was ready to scream, luckily I have my Allen wrenches in my bike bag. So I’m looking through the bag NO ALLEN WRENCHES!!! (EVIL#7) I so wanted to cry, I forgot everything I need for the ride. I was so HOT, I was determined to make it up the hill. I prayed that a cyclist would come up from behind and I can ask to borrow their wenches, never happened. Not only do I have only an inch to pedal, I had zero room for full rotation cause my knees was hitting my gut. With a bloody calf and no rotation I kept going. A few minutes of dismounting and raising the seat fifty times a group of ALC came barreling down the hill. The first squad was moving to fast for me to flag down, then another rider said, “We are all turning back now”. I had no choice but to turn down too. Another ALC rider came up behind me to pass and I said that I needed some help. I told her about my seat sliding down and she stopped and let me use her Allan wrenches. Locked the seat in place and followed her down Mandeville canyon.

I was so exhausted no breakfast it was about noon by now. The rest of the pack was waiting at the best of the hill. As we made it back to the main rode I was deflated, hating life, and in pain. The continued on to the beach and I decided to turn left and go home.
I was so beyond annoyed that I figure when I get home. I figured when I stopped for food, I’d call one of the ride leaders and tell them I’m going home. Or with my luck the front pack will catch up to me. With a rashed calf, bruised hip and shoulder I decided I’m need to stop for food. I had bonked after the pit stop, but kept going. I read that there was an optional pit stop at the same spot so I went. I got me a bagel with cream cheese, a large jamba juice, and a bran muffin thing, water. As I was there I noticed that one of the ride leaders came back. The ride leaders are responsible for all the rider, Ricky was there looking for me. I felt really bad, but I wasn’t in the greatest of spirits. He had a coffee and we chatted a little bit, a few minutes later front pack came back, check-in and was rolling.
I felt kind of rushed so as soon as I was done I told Ricky I was ready to roll. As we both came up on a quick hill my quads started to pulse and warn me. I stopped pedaling and ignored it. As Ricky and I made our way to the VA center, the pulsing was more frequent. I had to stop Ricky and tell him that I was starting to get a cramp. (EVIL #8) I got off my bike and did all I could, drank more water and stretch for a second. I didn’t want to keep Ricky so I told him to go on without me. I was just ready to stay put for a few more minutes and if I get worse call someone to get me. Ricky didn’t want to leave me, so I hopped on the bike and kept going after a few more stretching. A few rolling hills and conversation, Ricky and I got to know each other a bit more. Finally amd eit back to I Martin, better last then Never. After having such a hard time in my moutain bike, I looked around the store for a road bike. I fell in love with a Orbea Onix in Blue and my size. Only problem is its 3000 bucks. Oh well that’s my life, I biked home from I Martins and took my time.

Everything hurts but I’ll live, I have a Fundraiser at Faultline with BearsLA. BearsLA will donate half of the door to me, A lot is going on tonight, Men of Color at GII and Bear Kamp at Ripples too. Keep you all posted on my progress fro Aids Life Cycle 5.

Stolen from lbbuzz

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 12:15:32 GMT

Four jobs you’ve had in your life:
1. Handing out flyer on SMB and Western
2. Temp work stuffing envelopes
3. Rent-a-Boy
4. Movie Theatre attendant

B. Four movies you could watch over and over again:
1. Clue
2. Princess Bride
3. Willow
4. Sound of Music

C. Four cities you’ve lived in:
1. Hollywood
2. Mid-Wilshire
3. West Hollywood
4. Marina Del Rey

D. Four shows you love to watch:
1. Alias
2. Married with Children
3. Simpsons
4. MASH

E. Four places you’ve been on vacation:
1. London, England
2. Dublin, Ireland
3. Cabo San Lucas
4. Rome, Italy

F. Four websites you visit daily:
1. Bear411.com
2. Bank of America
3. Craigslist.com
4. Dodgers.com

G. Four of your all-time favorite restaurants:
1. Sumire in Studio City (Closed Now)
2. Lawry's
3. Chipotle
4. Won Kok (Downtown LA)

H. Four of your favorite foods:
1. Sushi
2. Persian
3. Chinese
4. Jamba juice

I. Four things you find yourself saying often:
1. I know huh
2. Dude!
3. Friggin______
4. Everything hurts

Peer Pressure is a Motherfucker

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 17:58:41 GMT

Training Day 25

After a late night, I decided to go on a training ride at Bike Attack in Santa Monica. 8:00am comes rather early going to bed at 2am. I pulled up to the parking lot early and I got to meet Sarah. Sarah is my speaker for my BearsLA event on April 8 at Faultline. Faultline being a predominately gay leather bar I wanted to give her a heads up. Plus I didn’t want any surprises, the last thing I want is my speaker to be shocked or embarrassed walking into a leather bar for the first time. So she said that she has an open mind. I asked if she wouldn’t mind playing the part, and since I had the leather kilt, I was wondering if she wouldn’t mind wearing something leather. She agreed!

As the crowd filtered in my fear was realized, I was the only one in a mountain bike. Everyone pulled up in either a hybrid bike or road bikes; I started to hear it all. “You should get a road bike…you should change your tires to slicks.” About 10 people in total came out and we had 2 ride options. 27 mile slow pace mostly flat with a java stop or a 37-mile ride with a few rolling hills. So after chowing down on bananas and filling up the water bottle we all headed out.

As we headed out I made friends with a rider named Sahar (Sa-harr) she was a hoot to talk too. We talked about the lack of Hotness in our dating pool. We started talking about movies and eventually started to talk about sex. (Duh) Then we got to the point of who was on our “Switch list”. We agreed that the guy who played Colossus in X-men is friggin hot, and we agreed that Halle Berry with short hair is Friggin hot too. After 13 beautiful miles of head winds and curvy bike path down the coast we made it to the pit stop before the 37mile party split. As we called Sarah the sweep rider leader to ask what her 20, she asked that we stay put because her pack was a mix of option 1 and 2. This gave me the perfect time for a piss break and get my land legs back. I was walking down to the restroom in Hermosa Beach, when this big muscle builder guy was walking in the opposite direction with a woman. Boy was he Beefy!!! As I’m getting closer to him, our eyes meet and he slyly smiles at me. I thought I was going crazy, so not to lose my cool or just pass out from shock. I smiled back kept walking. It was then time to do the 1-2-3-Turn, and as I turned around to see if he was looking. I turned around and he had this huge grin on his face, nodded his head and turned back around. I had no clue what to do next. I figure if he’s still walking away that means he’s with a friend or on the DL. But let me tell you that put a smile on my face for about 2 minutes.

As I walked back, Sarah’s pack arrived and they took a restroom break also. After we all chatted and devoured our energy bars, 37-mile riders was telling us all 27-mile riders to just bike the extra 5 miles with them. At this point I can’t feel my ass anyway, so I might as well push the next 5 miles. I was in the same boat with three other riders. Sahar said, “ Come on Boo, who’s gonna look out for Shorties with me down the beach.” Against my better judgment, I decided to what the hell. The next 4 miles was some slight hill climbs and more beach bike paths. At on point we made a right turn and there was a hill climb that was about a quarter mile. The first 50 yards killing me, I switch down to the granny gear and I’m spinning my legs like a man on crack. I couldn’t make it, I had to take a breather and find a gear I can spin well in. Up ahead a fellow rider fell and became the rides “First Blood”. We asked him if he was okay before moving on. After I found a good gear I pedaled my fat ass up a few more yards. Just when I was about out of gas when a guy from the Culver City 48-mile ride came sprinting up the hill and pulls up beside me and says, “Its easier on a road bike.” I was so mad and tired that even if I could, I couldn’t even drop my bike and chase after him beat him senseless with my bike pump. I just gritted my teeth and toughed it out. I made the final steep climb, with snot in my nose, my jaw locked and foaming at the mouth I did it. I was hating life, my legs wanted to fall off, but I Friggin did It.

As a reward the next turn was a roller coaster hill, I pedaled down the hill and felt the best breeze. My knobby tires slowed my roll back up the hill but a few yards more too climb wasn’t as bad. Magala Cove was what the place we took a break I think. As we I pedaled in was a mass of riders. Santa Monica/Culver City/Long Beach all took stops here. It was a mass of Aids Life Cycle Riders it made me feel part of something; one other thing gave me Hope. When I was walking around eating an orange, the Culver City riders were departing to climb the entire Palos Verdes Hill. The Palos Verdes Hill is another 5 miles of all climbing. As I was crossing to my bike, the CC Ride Leader yelled “Rolling”, I just happen to be parked next to this woman was in her late 40’s or early 50’s I said aloud “ There goes the Insane posse.” The woman snapped her helmet on and got on here bike and said,

“Why are we the Insane Posse?”
“Because you’re going to climb another 5 miles up the hill.” I said

She replied, “Your biking 585 miles in 7 days, your as insane as we are.”

With That, she rolled out with the rest of the CC posse and began their hill climb. Sarah’s pack caught up to us, we greeted them and said hello. As I stretched out and laid on the ground like a dead man, Sarah says Othello “How do you feel?” I told her “I’m really Hating you now, but on Day of the Ride I’ll Love you then.” A few other riders laughed along with her. After a few minutes we all headed back. The ride back was a lot more fun it was all down hill. I never realized that the entire way to Palos Verdes was slight incline. I loved every second I didn’t have to pedal.

Arriving back at Bike Attack 37-miles later I was tired, my ass was numb, and I felt like I could have kept going a few more miles. Sahar and I exchanges numbers and I went into Bike Attack, I had bike envy in a big way. I was looking at a KHS triathlon bike in the window. Andrew the owner of Bike Attack made me a great offer for the bike at $850 originally 1200 bucks. I was shocked he’d give me the bike out the door for $850, alas I had to give up that dream, cause I just don’t have the money for it right now. The experience was really good for me. I needed the training, well I need more training. I’ll keep you all posted. 37-miles is all I got now.

My Fat Ass Friggin Did It!

Fri, 24 Mar 2006 02:25:48 GMT

Day 23

Today i was supposed to go on a 630am traing ride that required more than 3 miles of hill climbing. Needless to say, on my day off i had no intention of waking my ass up that early and climbing hills for breakfast. So i decided to just go for a little bike ride. As i'm being my usual slacker self. i went to the ALC website and was browsing the "Training Tips". They have this chart, thats says by March i should be riding 3-4 times a day accumulating 140-150 miles a week. Holy Mackrel! i'm just a tad bit behind. last week i've been biking down to WeHo and back whick is about 10 miles round trip not bad.

Today i decided to go from SMB and Western to SMB and Sepulveda just past Westwood. Just to challege myself a bit more it stops being flat and a bit of rolling hills. I did it i traveled about 8 miles(???) as i was stopped at the light and about to turn around and go home i realized i am nowhere close to being where i want to be. So i pushed myself and said I can make it to Santa Monica beach. And before i knew it i Friggin made it to Ocean Blvd. I got off my bike and walked over to the cliffs and smiled. My Fat ass made it 15miles. I was so happy.

On the way back i stpped at a 7-11 for gatorade refill and headed over to Helens Cycle in Santa Monica. I decided that where my rest stop would be. I walked around the store playing for a million dollars. I found the Six13 bike i wanted, the right colors and the right frame size. The clouds parted, the little angels flew down and all i heard was"Haaaaaaaaaa". I was gonna cream in my shorts. And like every person does, i had to reach for the price tag. It was 1600 bucks. I was in such sticker shock i had a coughing fit. I was coughing like i was losing a lung. One of the store clerks asked if i was okay it was that bad. i took a sip from my bottle. HOLY Mother of GOD! After a few minutes of oogling everything i needed i left. Cycled home safe and sound. I learned some great lessons today.

1) Thank God for my Ipod Nano
2) I can do anything i put my mind to
3) I need a better seat. my seat is made for skinny bitches

all together i think i but on 30 miles, not bad i think. Now i'm hungry for chinese food, any takers?

I DOUBLE DARE YOU!

Thu, 23 Mar 2006 09:12:17 GMT

Okay, a frien of mine said "Everyone has something to hide." I said i dont. So here is the challenge.

Ask me a question, no matter how personal or silly.

*Either i Answer it
*or type "Hide".

Depending on the number of question. The ratio of Answered question and my "Hide" answer calculates how only i am about my life.

So against my better judgement, here goes! Bring it on!

I Had To Ask

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:20:19 GMT

Take the quiz:
What kind of gay man are you? (Gay guys only, PICS)

Jockey
You are the Jockey Gay Man! You are always at some sport practice and love to flex for the bois. You are the idol of gay men because a hott man can't go without a body!

Quizzes by myYearbook.com -- the World's Biggest Yearbook!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED* V for Vendetta*

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 03:40:31 GMT

It was friggin amazing, it had action, adventure, and gay issues brought to life. I want every action junkie to watch it.

AidsLifeCycle Community

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 03:52:28 GMT

Hey Kids

I joined the Live Journal ALC community , and since everyone is a stranger i decided to post a Get to Know me Post. I hope that this will give us all a greater understand and when we meet on June 4th, feel like family. (And for those gearing up for ALC 6!) What do you have to Lose? Lets Cut and Paste all!

Name:

Nickname:

Age:

Location:

Rider or Roadie?

Type of Bike:

Have you done a ride before:

Your Biggest Concern?

Why are you doing it? Doesnt matter how short or long, just tell us why you are Riding. Is it for friends or lovers past? Is it for you? Or is it for something deeper?

Something that makes you stand out? (your smile, your humor, your ass?)

Thats all i can think of......

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 03:28:11 GMT

DAY 14

Finally after a whole week of work I have Sunday off. Last Friday it rained for a bit, I was hoping that the fields would be soaked. So I got up and called the field condition hotline, alas no luck. So I got up went hunting for my bat bag and uniform. Slipped on the kneepad and work long pants today, it’s been really chilly lately. Off I went to softball ready to start the season, with new players and a new team.

Our first game was good. A few costly errors cost us about 5 runs though. I got burned once, because I didn’t keep my glove down and slipped right under me. (Friggin A!!!) Sometimes I think I’d make a better outfielder than 3rd baseman. Our second game was better, and my hitting was better. After a better 2nd game, we won. I would have liked to end the day with 2 and 0, but 1 and 1 is better than 0 for 2. Aside from the usual my legs hurt, my arms hurt, and my ass is sore.

Driving home I decided to treat myself with greasy Chinese food downtown. I figure this is the most exercise this week than I have had for the year. I hope all this cross training pays off. Tonight is the premiere of “The Ride” ALC 4 on Logo and I have a ticket, woohoo! The movie was awesome, I laughed and I cried. ( Cried Mostly) I really needed to see the movie, I needed to see the love. I know a few people living with HIV and this time I needed to see that all that I am doing in my life makes a difference. I felt better and more confident, then ever before.

Back in the Saddle

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 06:33:31 GMT

I’m not a stranger to a mountain biking or riding in the city. Before I was a terror in a car, I was a terror on a bike. Mind you that terror came to an end after a bus sideswiped me, busted derailleur and busted elbow, then finally when someone stole my bike. So now I’m back in the saddle, I didn’t get a road bike because I know for a fact that after the ride, I wont be inclined to road bike anymore. What’s more exciting for me, taking the bike path up a few hills and enjoying the scenery or on a mountain trail pedaling at Breakneck speeds over tree roots, rocks, and potential of breaking my neck? So I bought a Cannondale F300 hardtail, I figure it’s a upgrade from my old Specialized Stumpjumper Full Susp.

Day 8

Training day 1

So I started getting ready, filling up my water bottle and packed my Timbuk2 with stuff. I decided to go for a little ride, go to the post office, deposit a check, I figure if I’m gonna go riding I might as well ride like I’m used to. So I set off into the concrete jungle, I realized that even after all these years I’m going to have to bike on the sidewalk on some parts. In LA you really know what intersections and corners it would be best to ride on the sidewalk just to be safe. The feeling of being back in the saddle was amazing. The pedaling the shifting all came back to me like I never stopped. Before I knew it I was jumping curbs, riding the cracked road and hitting a pothole to see how much travel my front shock had. Not the best thing to do but I love it, I’ve never owned a Cannondale, but I have been told they are highly recommended. So from Western and Santa Monica to Doheny to Santa Monica I rode about 5 miles.

Day 9

Training day 2

Back in the saddle, and now here comes the pain. My fat flabby ass is sore, I’m thinking I should get a better seat, or maybe get a bike fit soon too. I realize that the more I ride the more things come back to me. As I’m biking around town I’ve started to look for hazards, people in parked cars, (opening their car door) oil slicks, and I started to use hand signals again. The excitement of riding was pumping in my veins again. The only difference now, is the fact that I have to get used to drinking water every few blocks.
Another 5 miles from home to Doheny. I know its not much but I’m working on it.

Day 10

Nothing, I picked up a extra shift at work and didn’t get much done. I know that I wont be able to train everyday but I did go dancing to unwind and do a bit of cardio. So line dances are all about fast movements and leg work. I consider it cross training. :0)

My Leather Life

I've Been Nudged. Again!

No Hooters Bar in PARIS!!!!! ARGH!!!!!!!!!

I've been Nudged!

A Shitty Week

Pay it Forward

Day Zero

I Just Had Too

My AidsLifeCycle Journey

IML 2006 Part1

Voice Post

Voice Post

Voice Post

30 mintues till Day Zero

SF or Bust

Aids Life Cycle 5 Updates

First Blood and other Evils

Stolen from lbbuzz

Peer Pressure is a Motherfucker

My Fat Ass Friggin Did It!

I DOUBLE DARE YOU!

I Had To Ask

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED***** V for Vendetta*****

AidsLifeCycle Community

Back in the Saddle

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED* V for Vendetta*