Alexis Decosimo

Graduation Ceremony

2011-05-15T03:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I officially graduated from college. In December I finished classes a semester early, but I received my diploma yesterday. It was a beautiful ceremony set under the old frescoes on my ceiling, my friend Theresa said of few words like, "Henceforth and There forth, and so on." I was then handed my very tasty diploma and the ceremony ended in giggles.

So I regret not being present at my own college graduation? Na, after attending 3 colleges and spending more times in the local national forest than I ever did on campus between classes, I am perfectly happy accepting a baguette diploma in Florence. I do miss the fact that I wasn't able to share it with my family and friends back home, but it's never too late for that.

I didn't actually know whether the ceremony was Friday or Saturday, so it's been a weekend dedicated to celebration. On Friday Theresa and I headed to the beach. I typically favor the mountains, but the beaches here are beautiful and aren't similar to crowded ones like in FL.

So what's next in the life of Alexis Decosimo? I think I am going to spend the next month trying to find work in Italy or the EU for the fall. I sadly had to defer my acceptance to George Washington, but I will make the most of a year off.

I will for sure be home in July, but for now I am enjoying the Tuscan hills and making the most of my time. Tuesday I am off to Vienna and when I get back one of my closest friends will be visiting me for 8 days. So more fun to come!

Chianciano

2011-05-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

2nd race 5th place (yes they won ham) I won 4 bottles of wine and pasta

3rd race in Italy. I didn't write up a report about last weeks (sorry FaFa). Last week I made my way from my 6th place finish in the first race to a 5th place. It was like night and day comparing the two races. The first race I kept thinking that the next corner would be the finish line. This resulted in 10+ disappointments, which is not the mindset to have during a race.

The last two races, and the way I plan to do any race where I don't understand the language, I line up in the box full of non English speaking Italians. This line up in the box usually take 20+ minutes, so I usually smile, do little dances, and try my hardest to find out what I have gotten myself into (with no prevail as of yet). Then I follow the large crowd of Italians into the woods, and find my "happy" spot.

My happy spot is when I find the group of people who I yo yo with throughout the race. It never tends to be with women, though. I think that's because if I do end up seeing a woman, I make myself race harder until I am comfortably ahead, then I find new yo yo buddies. Because these races are so large, I never actually know where I am compared to other women (to be perfectly honest I don't realize where I placed until the announcer has to physically place the awkward American, who has no idea what's going on but is standing on the stage smiling and laughing, on the right podium box).

The yo yo affect is funny in Italy because instead of being stronger on the uphills like in the US, I am a much faster descender. Now this could be because of 4 reasons.
#1- my butt has probably grown a substantial amount due to pasta and gelato, which scientifically would make my momentum faster and help me roll easier if I got booted off the bike.
#2 Italians suck at descending.
#3 My butt has gotten so big that subconsciously I realize that if I wreck the pasta and gelato will act as a pillow.
#4 I have improved at downhills
One will never know, I guess.

Anyways so this past race was in a town called Chianciano. It had significantly more climbing compared to the beach side race last week in Follonica. Equally as beautiful and equally as confusing. The descents were fantastic, Pisgah style rocks, and the up hills well they went up. My mindset on the uphills was "well this is never going to end so keep going." Once again this is the perfect mindset. Weird, well sure, but it works. I finished with a smile on my face, and I ended up making a lot of friends. I can only understand every couple of words, but they don't have to know that. I laugh when they laugh and agree when they look like they are saying something important. This is when my teachings on how to be a Southern Belle works so well.

Next week the hardest race in Tuscany 90 kilometers and lots of climbing. I have a choice on doing a shorter race but as coach FaFa says "go big or come back to America." Guess I need to start some serious negative training.

negative training at it's best

Final Report on Art Therapy in Jamaica

2011-04-27T03:02:00.000-07:00

1. The Plan

a. With the background of an undergraduate education in Art Therapy, I decided to plan a trip to Kingston, Jamaica. The plan was to work within the systems of a squatter’s community and orphanage, where I would lead a small group of students to help conduct group art therapy sessions. I received guidance by a registered Art Therapist, Geri Hurlbut (Coordinator of the Art Therapy Program, Assistant Professor of Art Therapy at Converse College), prior to the departure to Kingston. The goals and preparation for the group sessions were also set before the trip. I set the goals based on traditional concepts and research done in the field of art therapy, which included theories on group and individual counseling.

2. The Groups

a. Ferry Squatter’s Community

i. Ferry is a small community set on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica. The land is owned by a local Catholic Charity and is lent out to families who receive a small amount of help for living expenses. The age ranges of those who participated were from newborn to elderly. I was well aware of problems in the community due to five previous trips over the last 5 years. The children roam free and struggle with attending school. The women hold up the community while also having to be the sole breadwinner and supporter of their own individual family. Each family system struggles with adequate daily food intake and basic living supplies. Along with problems with food and living, there are rivalries among the women that cripple the community systems. Rivalries include differences in ideas on how the community should be run, religious conflicts, and problems with men.

b. Orphanage

i. This orphanage was not familiar to me. I did not know that this would be the place where we would conduct the sessions until we landed in Kingston. It turned out to be a much better institution than the orphanage with which I was familiar. The ages of the children with whom we wished to serve ranged from a few days to 12 years old. The age group that would participate in the session we planned to offer ranged from 5 to 10 years. The orphanage gave the children the proper food and living essentials, but due to a major problem with overcrowding, the children lacked the proper individual emotional care that is essential for development.

3. The Goal

a. Ferry

i. With the knowledge of the problematic areas within the community, I wanted to build a session that encompassed individuality and community. I believe in order to build a strong community the individuals would need to be able to recognize their own personal strength. When that goal was met, I wanted to focus bringing the individual strength together to build a stronger community.

b. Orphanage

i. The orphanage was a nice change from the orphanages with which I was familiar. They treated the children with kindness, which was not what I was expecting, but even with this change in attitude there was not a focus on each individual child. The orphanage was over-crowded. The goal was to incorporate the idea of a transitional object. A transitional object, as defined by Winnicott, “are the infant's first not-me possessions, like a blanket or doll. They are tangible--can be held onto, grasped, hugged. They lessen the stress of separation and soothe the infant.” (Daniels, 2007) They are thought to bring a maternal comfort to a child as they begin learning about separating themselves from the constant comfort of their guardian. I knew that most of the children had been deprived of the initial maternal comfort, so I wanted to think of a therapeutic art therapy session that could build on creating an object of comfort. I also wanted to think of something that each child could call their own. My plan was that if each child had their own object that would limit the chance of the objects being stolen.

4. The Projects

a. Ferry

i. I planned to have a two-part session. In the first part I asked the participants to create their own personal image. I explained that this image could be anything. It could help resemble what makes them strong, what motivated them, what they love, or a collage of images that encompass who they are. I wanted to give them the freedom to fully express themselves. In their everyday life, personal expression is a luxury, which is overlooked due to basic living needs. I initially thought I would give them about 30 minutes to complete this project, but due to the natural chaos in the community, we ended up letting the participants tell me when they were ready to move on. The individual drawings ended up taking about 45 minutes.

When the participants were ready for the next step, I asked each person to talk about their images. I wanted to give everyone the chance to be heard. We gathered into a circle, which began the second part of the session. Together as a group, we moved to a selected part of the Community Center’s outside wall. I explained here that the plan was to paint the individual symbols together on the wall where they have their community meetings. I knew that there was a large amount of tension between families and I wanted a permanent image to continually remind them of their individuality and what type of beauty can happen when they work together. I also hoped that creating a safe place for the participants to work together would allow for some positive group work and reconnect friendship.

Every Art Therapy session needs an ending part to help instill what has been learned and also help facilitate bringing ideas for the future. It is a way of moving from one mindset to another while still in a safe place. When the painting was complete everyone came back together back into a circle. Each participant was asked to recount the emotions and realizations they had come across while doing the project. This chance to verbalize her experience gave each participant the chance to once again have a voice. In everyday life “getting a word in” can be difficult if not impossible but it is essential for each individual be heard for growth in a community. Once every participant had spoken, I planned to thank everyone for joining and end the session.

b. Orphanage

i. Since I was planning to work with children who had no essential love from a guardian, I wanted to incorporate an object of love and comfort, as stated before. My goal was not religious based, but I wanted to create the idea of an invisible guardian for each individual child. Within the idea of a transitional object, I then wanted the children to create a physical object with which they could hold and feel comforted. I called this object a guardian angel. Most cultures and religions have created an idea of an invisible guardian, but I did realize that this particular orphanage was Christian based. That fact made me comfortable enough to bring this idea.

I began the session by asking the group what their idea of an angel was. I wanted to hear their individual thoughts and also wanted to allow the children to feel they were being heard. I then explained “my idea” of an angel. I asked the children if they ever felt lonely or like they needed a hug. I told them that for each child there was an angel assigned to fix their loneliness and give them that hug. Angels can’t be seen. This is when the helpers in my group brought out the “angels.” (Note: The angels were stuffed socks, which are soft to hold and have nothing to choke on.) I told the children that it was time to create their angel so they can hug it when they feel sad or in need of a hug.

We passed out paints and fabric pens (all hazard free) and allowed for creativity time. My group was posted up for problem solving, i.e. paint consumption, paint throwing, fights, and anything else that might go wrong. I planned to end the session when the children began to lose interest in the painting of the angels. When the children’s’ interest began to wane, we collected all of the materials, including the angels, to allow enough time to dry. I wanted to hear what the children’s ideas of angels were now that they had created their own individual one. After children had a chance to speak, I ended the session by explaining that now their angel could be hugged and loved.

5. Challenges and Resolutions

a. Ferry

i. Ferry from an outsiders view can seem very chaotic. The many children run free while the parents do daily chores. It is hard to find a quiet spot, which is essential for the group setting. We ended up having three group sessions- women, children/adolescents, and young males. Each group came with their own set of problem areas. We did have some universal challenges, though.

When arriving to Ferry, I was under the impression that we would be doing murals on a newly built house. The house belonged to Miss Kitty, who is one of the backbones in the community. She houses around 17 unofficially adopted children, and my plan was to conduct the sessions on her porch, which I hoped would be quiet, and paint on her bare walls. Upon arriving to the community with paint and materials in hand, I was taken aside and told that the house was far from done. The replanning took a full day, which had been planned for the women. We were told the community center was the second best place in which to paint our mural. We now had lost a day, so I had to plan on having two groups in one day.

Timing was also a constant issue. There is something called “Jamaica time” and it reins true in Ferry. I had planned to get to Ferry early each day to begin the sessions but it took up to a few hours to actually get everyone together. Once together, people, whether participants or not, were always coming in and out.

Which brings me to another issue, the lack of privacy. I did not want to get deep into issues. We didn’t have time for that, and I didn’t feel like I had the appropriate educational background. I did however want to create a safe and quiet space for each individual group. My group and I realized almost immediately that that idea was going to be difficult.

An issue essential to be addressed was the fact that we were American visitors in a third world country. I was well aware that this community consistently had visitors from America. There was a stigma on how these visitors treated and viewed Ferry. The way I approached this issue was explaining to each group that we were not there to pretend to understand what life was like for them. We knew that our daily lives were very different, but the reason we were there was to create a safe space and honor the work and lives of each participant.

ii. The Women’s Group

This was our first group at Ferry, so we were still figuring out how to work within their system. It took about three hours to get enough women together. They were interested in what we had planned for them, but they kept disappearing to find friends or deal with problems. We ended up starting the group only to have the other half show up about ten minutes into it. Once we had them together everything did end up moving more easily.

The next issue, which ended up being the hardest to deal with, was privacy and noise. The children in the community are used to having all the attention, so when they saw the visitors (my group) spending their attention on their mothers, they were less than pleased. A metal fence surrounds the community center, so the obvious choice at the time was to lock it. During the individual session, my group’s attention had to be on the children fighting to climb over the fence. Also during the painting of the murals we constantly had to prevent children from getting into the mural and paint.

I began to realize that I was trying to create a safe space to my standards. I had worked so hard to plan this trip but I had failed to remember that I was working within their life style, not my own. If I was going to ask the women to take time out of their busy day, then I had to accept that children were going to be in and out of the session. This was their natural life style, and asking them to change it would cause for results in the session that may not be authentic to them.

iii. The Young/ Adolescent Boys

This was our second group to work around and by that time we felt like veterans. We were allowed to move from the outside porch to the inside of the community center for the individual expression. Half of our group was given the job of keeping the younger children occupied, which kept the outside commotion down. We invited one of the main male mentors to help us and work with the boys, which allowed for more familiarity.

Our biggest issue was dealing with the few boys who didn’t take the project seriously. There were moments were I instructed someone in my group to cover up phallic symbols. There is a fine line between explaining that expression should be purely individual and having to tell a young adolescent that phallic symbols on a wall are not allowed.

iv. The Children

This was supposed to encompass ages from 3- 16 years old. We found ourselves in the small community center surrounded by children beyond that range. I found myself explaining the plan numerous times because it was so loud. We then found ourselves having to deal with the massive range of attention spans within this large group. We combated this by handing out more paper and different materials. During the painting of the mural we had to accept the flying of paint in the air.

b. Orphanage

i. Our first challenge came on our first of two days at the orphanage. We were not aware that we had arrived on a day where all of the children who were going to participate were on a field trip. This left us to the children in the nursery, which actually ended up being a good experience. We spent the day with crayons and helping the children explore the material and their fine motor skills.

The next visit we conducted the planned session. We had all of the children sit on two sides of a room with tables in front of them. The largest challenge we came across was the material. This was something that could have been avoided with the knowledge that I had gained studying Art Therapy. Judith Rubin wrote, “Each medium has intrinsic qualities, central to what it evokes, demands, and stimulates in the child.” (Rubins, p. 106, 2005) With this information it should have occurred to me that paint would bring energy to the children. This material naturally energizes the artist, due to it’s fluidity. We immediately found this to be true. The children began the session very well behaved, but after a few minutes of enjoying mixing the paint in the plates, we found ourselves dealing with increasingly energetic children. When we noticed that the paint (non-toxic) started going more on clothes and into mouths than unto the angels, we saw it was time to end the session. The next time I will use clothes pens, which allow for more attention and are less fluid.

The other challenge with the paint was the difference in artistic interests and abilities of the children. We did not know the personalities of the children and unfortunately didn’t have time to learn before we started the project. We discovered about half the children found catharsis in the mixing of colors rather than the actual painting on the angels, while the other half of the children found relief and joy. There was a conflict of interests when it came to this because the children who enjoyed using the different colors were unable to do so since the child next to them had mixed everything together. There was tension due to this so this is where paint pens would have come in handy.

6. Results and the Process

Note: Yes we had challenges, but the results made up for bumps.

a. Ferry

i. Women’s Mural

When I first gathered the women together I noticed they were hesitant to start their personal symbol. Their attention kept going to the on going ruckus that their children were creating. Within a couple of minutes, though, I noticed a significant switch- as the women became immersed in their work. Some chatted amongst each other about what was being created, but for the most part, the women appeared to be drawn into their individual worlds. When I called the group back together I noticed the women start talking more and more about their own pieces.

I began the circle by explaining my piece. I felt that if I started the rhythm the others would follow. I knew a few women were still hesitant about talking to the group and my example helped start the discussion. The women had very similar images in their artwork. In most of the drawings the women drew the sun (strength, brightness, and guidance), the cross (Christianity and strength), the ocean (calm, dangerous, and vacation), and their families (love and motivation). One woman had created an image of her son, who was sitting beside her. The son’s face consisted of many different colors, and she explained that it represented his strength and personality. After the women had described their pieces of work a woman named Lisa said,

“Sometimes it’s hard to express yourself in words, so your drawing can help express yourself. Some of us express ourselves in love, some in anger. If you keep it within yourself it is going to hurt more. Sometimes words can’t express what you need so you must find other ways. Like this picture I drew it but I didn’t know what I was going to say with it but then as I opened my mouth to explain it, it came out. The picture gave me the idea of what to say.

The women agreed, except for one woman, Sonia. Sonia explained to me that she had always found self-expression in poetry. The ability to write poetry helps her completely express herself. By writing poetry she finds that she can write free and use words for good. I told her that we could make a section on the wall for her poetry. She had never shared her poetry before, so this would be her first time for people to read her poem. I passed out a few more pieces of paper and explained that now it was time to think about the group mural.

As the women began to create the mural, I took note of how they were working together. They were recreating their individual images on a small wall together side by side. There were some images that were blending together, but there was a definite separation in each woman’s drawing. The notable part was that there was no tension or fighting. There was laughter and conversations amongst the women but there was also a strong sense of concentration on what was being created. They began the mural in a more individual sense but as the mural manifested we began to hear group singing and explanations of what they were doing. They had to share the buckets of paint, and just that fact brought the group together because they had to learn to work together. As stated before the community was suffering because the women were not able to work together to problem solve, so this was a wonderful sight to see.

As Sonia began to paint her poem on the wall, she realized that she was not able to paint the words well. She asked her daughter to try, but her daughter struggled as well. She then asked another member to help her, and Sonia read her poem as the woman painted it.

The paint began to go on more places than just the wall. The women began to paint each other’s faces, which they called warrior paint. They also began to gang together to tell the children to get out of their area. In the beginning they didn’t see the point in having just women time but by this point they were yelling at the children, “It’s women time! Get out!”

The result of this session was better than I could have imagined. Women, who work day and night to provide for their family, were able to take a small amount of time to honor who they are. Rivals became friends and even helped each other. They reported to me at the end of the session that their hope was to do this project again. We had sparked interest in the community, and they believed more group work would begin to mend the community.

ii. The Young Males

During the planning prior to the trip I wanted to have an all males session. I wanted to work with the males in hope of bringing up problems in the family systems. I was strongly advised by the sole male in my group not to do so. He brought up the points that we did not have enough time to gain their trust or deal with what might come up. I respected the wisdom that he brought and forwent the all male mural for this particular trip.

On the last day of murals, I had planned to divide the children into young and adolescent. I wanted to focus on the natural act of painting with the young children and I wanted to get into symbolism more with the adolescents. To my surprise though, I was confronted by a large group of adolescent and young adult males who were upset with me. They told me that they had been looking forward to their mural and expected the same treatment I had given the women. We had gotten used to thinking on our feet by this time, so my group and I quickly scheduled to have a male group first and an all age children’s group later.

I decided to structure the session similar to the women’s group. My goal was to focus on their strength in hopes that it would bring conversations about how to help in the community. I also emphasized looking into the future. I knew that many of the boys were struggling with motivation in school so I wanted them to take the time to visualize the possibility of a successful future. As the boys worked on their individual symbols, I noted the different attitudes that were being put into their work. I noticed some boys working quietly by themselves and others were working as a group.

There was a significant theme to the male’s individual drawings. The game of dominoes has been introduced to the youth earlier in the year, and it had worked as a positive tool to motivate and keep peace. I saw a lot of images with dominoes in them. These images and this game united the boys. I saw a mix of images alongside the dominoes that were truly individual. The boys were connecting as a group, while also focusing on themselves.

When we moved to the outside mural, they immediately went to work. They worked side by side, and for the most part they shared the materials. They recreated their images of dominoes and personal symbols. They were so immersed in their work that they still were not done when we left Ferry hours later.

iii. The Children’s Mural

When I introduced the idea of individual creativity to the children, I quickly learned that they were not familiar with the word “creativity.” As a group we figured out how to explain creativity by talking about different ways someone might express them self. The paper was handed out and the children got to work. My group and I were surprised at how diligently the children worked, but as expected the children began to get anxious to paint within about 15 minutes of drawing.

I brought the children back together so that they could show their images to the group. The children’s art was of their family, favorite sports and activities, and self-portraits. We had a wide range of ages within the group, so I saw a range of developmental stages. We had small children that were in the beginning stages of the pre-schematic stages. This was noticeable by the simple circular and linear shapes that were used to suggest humans. Some of the older children were trying to draw realistic and naturalistic images. The big range of ages made it difficult to set the stage for children to explain their work. I ended up opening the floor to those who wanted to talk while keeping everyone still.

I released the children to the mural. The older boys were still working hard on their pictures and more adults were picking up brushes, so it turned out to be an all member mural. I had planned to finish the trip with a community mural but I didn’t need to introduce the idea; it had already happened.

Little children worked on their paintings as their parents stood over them working on their own image. The final result was a mixture of images. Some related to each other while others were purely individual. I had anticipated trying to get the community to work in harmony but to see it actually unfold was amazing. When we had all of the members freely working there was moments of silence as everyone immersed themselves in their creations.

b. Orphanage

i. As stated before, we initially met the children the day of the session, which made it difficult to understand how the children worked within a group and individually. We were lucky because the staff gave us a section of the room to conduct the group work. Walls in the middle of the main room sectioned the working room off and on either side of the walls were tables in front of long benches. This gave me the opportunity to be able to see all the children, and the tables helped the children stay in their seats.

I began the session when we felt that the children were as settled as they could be. When I asked the children what an angel was, a few of them responded “Gabriel,” the arch angel in the bible. I went on to explain the idea of guardian angels. As we passed out the angels, I went around to talk to individual children. At first the children seemed hesitant to paint, but once they got their brushes wet they began to explore the medium. The once quiet children grew more and more energetic, as some mixed paint and others painted their angels. It went well for a good while. My group helpers did a good job of replenishing the paint and showing the children the skills needed to paint on an object. Problem solving skills were essential at this time. We had to separate the paint eating and mixing children from the children who were consciously painting faces and images on the dolls.

When we felt it was time, we picked up the dolls and paint. We were able to successfully sit the children back down, and as I looked at the once clean children, I was painted faces and dirty clothes. I did see, though, smiles and excited chatting. When we began the session, the children seemed to move as one entity, but at the end of the session each child seemed to want to talk and express themselves as individuals. One child, in particular, was excited to show me the face he drew on his angel. It was obvious that he had given a personality and spirit to his angel doll. I watched him as he cradled his new friend with care. While some children understood the idea of a comforting object, almost all the children enjoyed the act of expression and painting.

7. Conclusion

As a whole there were bumps and victories. I had planned this trip for a year, and I had felt the plan was flexible enough to handle “Jamaica time.” It ended up that it was essential to rely on thinking on our feet instead of sticking to a schedule. The results that came from this trip were unique and wonderful, and I could not have planned for what each individual took from the projects. I would like to give most of the credit to the individuals who joined me on this adventure. Without anyone of them, I would have not been able to pull this together. A video documentary of this trip is in the works and will be coming out soon.

As for the art therapy aspect, it is amazing what art can bring. A person can say only so much with words, but colors and images can bring a whole new conversation amongst individuals and groups.

Work Cited:

Daniel, V. (2007). Object relations theory. Retrieved from http://www.sonoma.edu/users/d/daniels/objectrelations.html

Rubin, J. (2005). Child art therapy 25th anniversary edition. New Jersey: Wiley & Sons.

Zero Training

2011-04-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

I thought I might go into my ultra serial training methods on my blog, so that everyone could see how serial I am about riding bikes and how I firmly believe that riding bikes is about winning and being fit. It is never about the adventures or places you go.

A very wise yet ridiculous friend once told me that in order to do well at races he goes into "zero training." This zero training, which Dan correct me if I am wrong, involves unplanned 6 hour Pisgah rides, downhill shuttles, and simply playing on bikes. This of course is always followed by really horrible yet delicious Mexican food and of course beer. In following this strict regimen, you can succeed in the sport of racing bikes.

So back to my strict training methods. Two years ago I had a strict, very wonderful coach, and a power tap (a super serious machine that doesn't let you slack off). Even though the coach was very intelligent the training did not fit my style of riding. The more I trained and the more I understood what heart rate and power meant, the less I loved riding and I never seemed to race to my potential. (I will admit this does work for most people, and the coach that I did have was incredible in that area)

So I took off the power tap and just began to ride. Instead of strictly knowing how long I should ride a day, I will either find long adventures or go on rides where I fall asleep in olive groves or sit by streams to watch lizards play.

And here I am today. 2011 and with this zero training I have been able to catch a stars and stripes jersey and happily have a few other races under my belt that I am proud of. All thanks to completely refusing to train on my bike. I have to admit I am pretty strict on zero training. Many of my Italian friends invite me on rides with them, but the only problem is they say to me, "We are going mtb training today. Join?" Well that is against my training plan. I can't possibly go on a mtb "training" ride. That would completely put me off schedule, so I don't go. Now if they said, "Hey lets go get lost in the country side and see if we can find some amazing trails." I'd be out the door in two seconds.

This is why you may see me smiling at every race and/ or dancing. Instead of working on my physical capabilities, I have learned how to have PMA (Positive Mental Attitude). So at some races, where I end up doing well, it's not because I trained everyday on a strict schedule. It's because I have been riding and going on adventures, so I am just truly happy to be on a bike.

So here's to single speeds, long adventures, the feeling of freedom while being lost, dancing on a bike, bad mexican food, beer, racing DH in high heels and skirts (thomas), and just the pure bliss that these funny pieces of metal can bring.

Oh and shout out to Geoff, who has been my coach the last 2 years. His suggestions on riding have always been something like, "Ok go for a 2 hour adventure and remember to smile." Thanks to him I can feel somewhat on track.

First Italian Race

2011-04-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

OOOOWWWW. That's all I have to say.

I had ABSOLUTELY no idea what type of race I was getting myself into. After missing the first one, due to miscommunication on time, I was ready to race. Today was the perfect example of how the first race of the season is the hardest. I was told it was 45 kilometers, so my thinking is, "HM only what 23ish miles? I'll be fiiiinnneee." I expected that the women would start in their own categories, but it was a mass start. The elites lined up in front and then there was everyone else. A lot of the faster women were in the front part, so it made it almost impossible to catch up to them. The start got so clustered that it took minutes to actually get the wheels rolling, and don't get me started on the bottle necks and stopped lines on the actual single track.

It was unusually hot today, and I felt it almost immediately. Lets just say I was suffering. From what I could tell, I was able to keep in front of the non elite women, but I had difficulty getting the others except for a few. As for time and placement, I don't think I did too bad, but for knowing my body, I know I could go significantly faster. Oh and 45 kilometers is a long time when your climbing most of the first 1/2.

As for the trail, well it was what helped me stay sane on this never ending race. For you Pisgah lovers, imagine Bennett, Trace Ridge, and Laurel Mtn. Just a few days ago I was feeling homesick for long descents and especially missing Pisgah, so when I came up on these descents, I actually was passing people. I think it was the heat, but I was having a hard time not thinking that I was in the embrace of Pisgah. That's how similar it was.

I know this post sounds like the race was miserable, and to be perfectly honest it did seem like a never ending pain session. Because I couldn't communicate with the racers, I couldn't ask how much longer, so my mind kept telling me the end was near. That is the absolute worst mindset to have because as soon as the trail kicks back up into the woods my dreams would be crushed, but now I know what to expect.

Other than the pain, it was an amazing race and loads of fun. I traveled with my team Pro Bike, which consisted of 5 Italian men who wouldn't let me speak English. They would give me grief about things and make me respond back in Italian. The drive there and back was a consistent laugh and I actually think I learned more Italian in those 3 hours than I have in 3 months. I always have been told that in order to be fluent in Italian I needed to find myself a Stallion for a boyfriend, but I think I found a funnier solution, and now I know some witty sayings. The single track, like I said, filled my cup when it comes to missing Pisgah, and the race ended with a gravel road surrounded by yellow flowers as far as the eye can see.

Would I do it again? Well I am planning to race next Sunday. I am going to pack more food and I now know what to expect.

Ireland

2011-04-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

Well I decided to make a spur of the moment trip to Dublin, Ireland. Why? Well I was itching for some local live music and green rolling hills. I got just that. I stayed in Dublin for 3 days, and I spent two of those days wandering around the city and one day in the countryside. I stayed at a B&B the first night and went and made friends at a local pub. The next day I went to the Guinness Museum and talked to mountain bikers about local trails. I like Dublin, but I was itching to see the countryside.

me at the Guinness Museum, after you walk through 6 floors, the tour ends at a 360 degree bar where you get a complimentary pint. I went alone to Dublin but had a very easy time making friends

The next 2 nights I stayed at a friend of a friend's. Derek is the picture of a Irish gentleman, which was a good change from the Italian boys in Florence. He first took me to listen to traditional Celtic music jam session in a mountain pub. It was magical and made me want to stay forever.

cross bike? Yes please

The next day he took me to see the countryside. I have pictures, but honestly they don't do the green hills justice. I spent the whole time drooling in Derek's car.

My lovely Irish host

Derek thank you so much for the incredible hospitality, and Ireland, I am already trying to plan my next trip bike in tow.

Mom and Dad this is much better than being a productive member in society

Munich with Garnett

2011-03-15T15:26:00.000-07:00

The wooden tables where we had our German style beer garden

So Garnett flew into Munich to spend his spring break with his sister. I took a 9 hour night train in from Florence. Night trains are nothing to be romanticize about. Imagine a broom closet with 6 very small bunks stacked on top of each other. Fortunately nobody smelled too rank.

Garnett at the BMW museum

So we have been here for 2 days now. The first day was spent wandering the streets until we found an outdoor sitting area with long wooden tables and benches. They were completely filled with Germans drinking 1 liter beers. Garn and I were some of the youngest and the only Americans we knew of. Those old German women can put down some beers. We watched as one man regurgitated as his elderly mother, 1 liter beer in hand, tsked at him for not being more of a man.

Well we ended up buddying up with some young Irish and Scottish lads who were in search of some traditional German fun. We spent the rest of the day chatting with them, enjoying the sun, and enjoying what was around us.

Today we headed to the BMW museum. I swear Garnett is in love with this country. He spent the whole day drooling over cars and motorcycles. We then had dinner in a beer house. I don't think he's going to be able to go home after this experience.

Garn in front of Augustiner-Keller ANOTHER beer garden

I have really enjoyed Munich so far. I am hoping to find some trails and people to ride with. It was sunday so no shops were open. Germany is a nice breather from Italy, which I still love. Though I have to admit, it's nice to get away from the hootin and hollerin' Italian Stallions who constantly roam the streets. Things here are a lot more laid back in that sense.

enjoying our German meat and beer

Sun and pictures to prove it

2011-02-20T13:42:00.000-08:00

Well this weekend consisted of getting lost once again in the countryside. It also consisted of sleeping in more olive groves and singing happily as I descended down country roads, and yes Keith there was lots of frolicking.

During most of my rides I go with some of the fellas from the shop I have been going to. I think they enjoy my company because they always want to buy me gelato after the rides. So they either like me or they're trying to fatten me up so I can't keep up with them. Either way I like it.

It was the most beautiful day we've had so far

Some Fun News and Updates

2011-02-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

First Pencil drawing

She wasn't actually this mad but somehow it just turned out that way and I liked the expression

A drawing cut two days short

Well I moved! The last place was a little on the undesirable side and far from the studio. Now I am living right next to the Plaza Piti, where the famous Medici family lived. The apartment I am in is actually where they used to make medicine for that family. The great room is covered by frescos done by the same artist that did frescos in the actual Palace.

This Fresco is actually my ceiling. I have found myself laying upside down staring at it.

I feel like I live in a museum

The walls are covered but they didn't last like the ceiling did

Some more exciting news. I have been asked to join a Florence bike racing team. They travel together around the Tuscany area racing mountain bikes. I will be racing XC, long races, and to my excitement SUPER D!!!! Even though they find the single speed funny and interesting, I think they are going to put gears on. I do have to admit some of these back country gravel roads are like walls. We'll see though. I am excited that I will have support in a country where I don't know the language and probably would have had a difficult time getting to the actual races. One apparently runs around an old castle.

As for the Super D, starting in March I think there is a downhill course next to Florence. I was told we were going to see if I am faster on a specialized test bike or my lil' hardtail. I am putting money on the hardtail.

I am also talking to two bike touring companies about possible job opportunities. It would be nice to make some euros and ride my bike everyday!

view from a mtn bike ride 20 min out of the city

Other than that, exciting things happen daily. Planning on getting out on the mountain bike all weekend and enjoying some sun shine. I am still in the planning stages for Ireland and Scotland for the spring. I have found a mtn bike festival and race in Ireland, and a mountain bike park in Scotland.

Update/Ballet/MTB in Tuscany

2011-02-06T13:06:00.000-08:00

So it's been a little while since I posted last. Life has been exciting and fun as usual.

My now old roommate and partner in crime ChicAAAgo Megan and I spent all of January finding hidden treasures in Florence. She was always handy with a Florence Tour guide and I put my two cents in by always making her put down the book and walk into off alleys with me. Whichever method we went by, we always found fun adventures and good food. The last weekend she was here we decided to go all out. We went to a true Florentine restaurant where I bravely ate tripa (cow stomach, which we thought was tongue cause of the texture). We then went and ate some of the most mouth watering desserts you could ever dream of. We stood at the counter jumping and giggling with every bite. Then, being the ladies that we are, we went to a ballet/ opera version of A Midsummers Night Dream. For 10 euros we were 4 rows back from the stage. It was magnificent! We then went back and ate more dessert. Pretty lovely night I must say.

As for the other fun stuff! I have still been discovering Tuscany by bike pretty much daily. One of my favorite rides had me following people up one of the mountain sides only to take personal side tour on a short gravel road. The special thing about this was the gravel road led to a olive tree grove, which was far enough away from the road so that I couldn't hear cars. It was an unusual sunny 60 degrees, so I found myself falling asleep in the green grass between a row of trees. I woke up to a dog looking at me and a wonderful view of snow peaked mountains. Have I mentioned life is wonderful? I was laying there for over and hour and a half with a silly grin and pure happiness.

Today was another wonderful day. I rode mountain bikes in the deep woods of Tuscany for about 4 hours with about 10 happy Italians. We couldn't understand each other at all, but I did constantly hear the words SINGLE SPEED, with a muffled laughter after it. I did not bring my camera, but I can try my hardest to describe this magical place. It was full of rocky single track broken up by random roads that led to old Italian homes. At one point we rounded a corner and found ourselves on the beach of a remote mountain lake, that still had a beautiful morning mist coming off of it. (drooling yet? I still am)

I have had so much fun with my bikes here. Apparently I have made a name for myself due to my random show ups on my little single speed. I can power up most everything, while still being able to giggle about the mud and my random yelps of "BELLA and Bellisimo!!", but there are some sections that are far too steep to climb.

My day ended with a trip to a chocolate festival 3 blocks from my apartment. Have I mentioned that despite riding a lot, I am convinced I am going to gain 300 pounds? I will happily be that weight, though, this festival is my dream come true.

So lazy sleeps in an olive grove, muddy rides with hidden treasures, and chocolate dreams that end in me unable to move. I must say it's hard to get much better than this. and I am getting pretty good at this Italian language thing. I know enough to order good chocolate and yell FANGO(mud) when I am descending down Italian single track.

my other dream, Keith get ready

First life drawing

2011-01-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

Well I am exhausted! I go to the studio from 9-3 (I skip lunch so I can get out an hour early), ride in Tuscany for 2 hours, come home eat dinner, and go to Italian lessons from 7:30-9:30. I thought this was supposed to be a break from school. I have never been so busy in my life.

I am still having so much fun though. I am still skipping through the cobble streets with a silly grin on my face. I have learned to enjoy the fact that laughter and smiling is a universal language. Now that I can get out in the country every day (which is a quick hop and skip from the studio) I am able to relax and enjoy the simplicity of the region. I also found an indoor climbing gym to help my winter wiggles. Other than that I wanted to post my first life drawing. It is defiantly needing work, but I have to start somewhere.

Plans for weekend mountain bike, group ride, opera, and sleep!

I can't find a way to flip it, so until then enjoy the piece of art I call "floating stallion"

He seems pretty relaxed for being upside down

Carla Swart

2011-01-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

I want to take a moment to honor the life of Carla Swart. She was truly an amazing person on and off the bike. I have only the fondest memories of her, whether it being the time that she and Ally followed me up to the bathroom after Eric put packing tape in my hair at 2009 Nationals, with scissors in hand, of course. Or when I broke my chain at the LMC race and happily waited for her to lap me so that I could "finish the race." Her reaction being, "why on earth are you walking your bike in a race," then proceeding to laugh as she sprinted away.

Carla you were an inspiration. Your positive attitude proved to us all that you can laugh and smile and still win every collegiate national title there is.

A cold yet beautiful ride in Tuscany

2011-01-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

Well once again I frolicked in beautiful Tuscany this weekend. Saturday I actually slept all day, but today I made up for it. My new buddy Filippo decided to rip my legs off on a 75 kilometer ride through the hills outside Florence. I think it might be time to start riding during lunch at the studio because this weekend warrior isn't cutting it. It was quite frigid today, so he would sprint off like
line 1
line 2
line 3

a stallion of the Italian breed ( apparently I have to put three lines between his name and Italian Stallion, so there). It was truly a wonderful ride! We ended it by eating this fried something with sugar that is truly to die for.

Luckily we had a descent to Florence after this, cause I don't think I could take an uphill after that.

It's hard not to just fall head over heels in love with the countryside around Florence. I've always been told that Italy is the most romantic country. It looks like I have fallen in love with the beauty of vineyards and ancient stone walls. It's hard not to yelp with excitement with every corner I turn. There is always something to marvel at.

Apparently there is a mountain bike trail that ends here

"Wherever there is grass expect a trail"

Ally went mountain biking in Tuscany, Ally is a very happy girl

2011-01-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

MMMM the ability to take a deep breath and not smell exhaust has been something I have been longing for for the past 2 1/2 weeks. To be able to frolic in the woods and only be surrounded by trees, rocks, and to my enjoyment mud. And now I have officially settled into Italian living.

From my last post you can see how I found a riding buddy. I ended up getting grief for him being part of me winning a bet, sorry Filippo there was no money involved. So the ride! Well I definitely need to get my single speed legs back. After nationals I have been so busy with ending school, Jamaica, and moving across the world my "training" days have taken a back seat, and by training of course I mean long long frolics in the woods.

I was definitely not able to do what I usually can do on my little single speed. I hate to admit it but I was walking a good bit of the uphill. We climbed for quite a while, probably at the grade that lower Black Mountain is at it's steepest (for you Pisgah folks out there). I was very surprised that my legs didn't like this, but it has been a few months since I really have been out riding.

Anyways! We left the city center and were climbing these gravel roads within 30 minutes. From what he was telling me there are tons of trails right out of the city. We climbed to the top of one of the mountains on the steep gravel road to a place where I had a 360 degree view of Tuscany and the city. You can't see it in the photos because there were snow clouds. We then had a fun single track descent, that would be up to par with Pisgah. It is very similar. There are lots of roots and rocks in this tight trail. Apparently there are quite a few downhill tracks right out of the city, also.

After the single track we descended a beautiful old road that cut through the heart of Chianti. It felt like it was out of some movie. We pedaled through grass roads that followed old stone walls into vineyards. I couldn't stop giggling with excitement.

Thank you Filippo! Give me a few weeks and I'll be able to show you what single speeders can do.

Dan P. Ennis Lost a Bet

2011-01-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry Dan but I think I remember us betting right before I left. I said that I was going to walk into a Florence bike shop and say "Mountain Biking, Now" (in broken Italian of course) and find someone who would take me on the local trails. You said it doesn't happen like that. Well...

On friday I am going on a mountain bike ride with a nice guy who works at one of the shops here. He saw my single speed and laughed. He said I can't make it up the mountains around here. Well I guess we'll see. As I was leaving, he laughed and said, "well you seemed to have come to the shop and left with what you want." My reply was this wasn't the first time I have walked into a shop and said "mountain bike NOW!" It worked in Hood River, and I got an awesome buddy out of it too. SO be looking for a Italian mountain bike trail review this weekend.

Well I finally finished a drawing. I am ready for the next cast because I made so many silly mistakes on this one. In this type of method I am being taught, it seems more mechanical and technique than talent. I am learning though. I am also learning that I have no idea how to flip pictures, Oh Well

Another Wonderful Day in The Neighborhood

2011-01-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

By neighborhood I mean the countryside of Tuscany

Well I finally made it on an official group ride. I showed up at 9 am to the bike shop and there surrounding me was 35ish Italian Stallions in spandex ready to ride. My thoughts (well dang I am the only girl, my butt is going to get handed on a silver platter). Well to my excitement another lady showed up, and she was the only one who spoke English. Oh Goody!

Well we promenaded around the city in this large group for a good 20 minutes trying to find a non foggy exit. I was enjoying myself listening to the Italians talk. They would try to speak English to me while I tried to speak Italian. The result was them singing the Chattanooga Choo Choo song, and I am happy to say that has been a regular occurrence while here. Apparently the Choo Choo song is quite popular.

Well we finally made it out of the city and started climbing. I ended up out climbing everyone on all the climbs and having to wait at the top for everyone. I think they found it funny because they would always catch back up giving me a funny face and a chuckle. At the top of one mountain, I ran into a bunch of mountain bikers and was invited on a ride for next weekend. I excitedly built up the good ol' steed immediately when I got home.

Well for about 4.5 hours we rode through beautiful mountains, vineyards, and farms. We arrived to the top of a mountain town and had a 20 minute descent with the most breathtaking views. The 35ish men ended up turning around at some point in one of the big climbs so it ended up being me the lady and her husband. She was a road racer and told me about the many local races in the area. She told me that very few women rode but the ones who did "ride bikes like men." Who knows I may actually race a road race just to see these men lady riders.

I was not able to take pictures on the ride so these are still from yesterday. We went higher today and the views were even more grand than yesterday. In the last 2 days I have ridden about 190 kilometers, not bad for someone who hasn't ridden. Bringing the bikes was the best decision I made. It gives me the chance to easily make friends, which is confirms my theory that bikes can open up a world of connections and friendships around the world.

I have to leave the country during my 3 week break because I don't have a visa, so I am looking into doing a bike tour in Ireland for 2 weeks. It costs $100 to fly there and back, and I just think it would be absolutely amazing. Well arrivederci.

Tuscany

2011-01-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

Yep I finally made it to Tuscany. Technically Florence is in Tuscany, but when I talk about Tuscany I am talking about blue mountains, olive orchards, wineries, hills, trees, grass, all the good stuff.

All week long I have been situating myself on a wall next to the river near the studio. I just stare at the mountains and wonder what adventures I can get myself into. Today was a treat for sure. Having to wait to get into the mountains make them so much sweeter.

I started off early so that I could do around 6 hours and not have to stress about getting back before dark. So in order to ride with people, I've started "bike hopping." I stand at a corner and wait for a rider, as soon as I see one I jump on his wheel. At first they are super confused but I do what I like to call the "I'm an American and can't understand a word your saying" giggle and they warm up to me. Well what happens is I keep passing them and so I decide to stay with this person until a faster person comes along. I continue to do this until I am riding at a good pace, but sometimes I have to settle for a slow pace.

I ended riding for about 6 hours with a few breaks to lay in the grass. Florence has no grass, so I had to take advantage of lying in a field and feeling the sun light on me. I climbed mountains, I ate gelato on a mountain top city, I sang and danced, and had conversations that I have no idea what was said.

All the riders I have hopped on have been male. I seem to always start with older and they get younger as the speed increases. When I took breaks, I would just wait for another rider to come along. Italy is pretty amazing like that. Cycling is pretty much the national sport. Everyone does it, so I am never lonely on my rides.

Tomorrow I was invited on an actual group ride, so I am excited about that. I am talking to some guy about mountain biking Monday.

Today just made everything seem so perfect!

First few days at Charles Cecil Studio

2011-01-11T14:13:00.000-08:00

Well my days of meandering came quickly to an end. Monday was the first day at the studio (the reason I am here for people who don't know.) A quick history of why I am at this particular studio:
My uncle Cessna, at age 29, left seminary and decided he wanted to become an artist. He found this studio in Florence and moved here for 3 years. Years later he came back to teach, always to leave an impression on this wonderful city as he always does. Fast forward to the present, I finished undergrad early and am in the waiting stages to figure out if I am off to a grad school in the fall (fingers crossed), realizing I didn't have anything holding me back, I called my uncle and now I am here. Pretty simple actually. It all fell into place a few days after Thanksgiving, so I am still adjusting my brain that I am actually in Florence.

The studio teaches the sight- see technique, which is argued to be the method of the old masters (Michelangelo, etc). It offers 3 years of rigorous study strictly based on this technique. Well all I knew going into was I was going to be drawing nudes for 1/2 the day and cast (statues) the other 1/2. The rest was up to me to discover.

Well my first day I suspect paved the way for what I should look forward to the next 6 months. Lets start with the walk I have to do every morning.

Leave the Apartment and walk about 1/2 mile to go under:

Walk another 1/2 mile and look to my right

and my left

Grab a cappuccino and pastry while I listen to people talk, and finish the 1/2 mile to the studio

So lets just say my day starts off pretty darn good. So back to my first day, I did this walk and end up at the studio. I walk in to a beautiful 1/2 oval room with easels in a semi circle. I immediately noticed the natural light coming into the room. Another thing I almost immediately noticed, a nude Italian man already in a pose. I am coming in the middle of the year so they just threw me right in. They set up my easel and quickly taught me the techniques.

The technique is very accurate, which has never been my strong point. That's why I am here, I guess. I struggled the first day, but I think I am getting the hang of it. Another thing to note is I am the only American, and no it's not all Italians, everyone is British. I defiantly need to learn the lingo cause I swear sometimes I can understand Italians better.

The other 1/2 of the day is drawing from caste. The castes are replicas of old historic busts. Not as exciting as nude Italians but a lot easier because the castes don't move to scratch their noses. This part of the studio has a basement type feel and I defiantly need to take the occasional trip outside to get some needed sunlight. My hours at the studio is 9-4 so this is a full time deal. I'm refusing to carry a watch so that I don't end up watching the clock instead of enjoying my time.

Other news: I found a live jazz bar right next door to me. It has blues, swing, and jazz dancing 5 nights a week. I couldn't sleep so I slipped out to listen to a live blues band. Swing dancing tomorrow! This just keeps getting better and better

My daily Italian lesson:

Lei è un ottimo modello nudo, grazie

Well I done did it... again

2011-01-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

I woke up late this morning and missed the group ride I had planned to go on, so I decided to roll out of bed get the riding clothes on and find an adventure. I left my bike in the apartment while I went to grab coffee before I went to ride. On my way back, about 2 doors down from mine, I saw a man of about 65 putting on his riding shoes and a carbon bike leaned up against him.

I ran up to him, and said "un momento" and ran to get my bike. When I got back outside, I was disappointed because I couldn't find him. Then I noticed he was coming from behind me. He said "Andiamo" (lets go). So for about 10 minutes I rode behind this 65 year old man into the Tuscan countryside. I would notice he would slightly glance behind him only to see a smiling girl on his wheel. By the time we got into the country, though, he pulled to the left so that I could ride beside him. He started talking in fast Italian and all I could do was laugh and give him a questioning look.

After he figured out how clueless I was, he started trying to find a way to communicate. He would say an Italian phrase and we would spend the next minute going through English until it matched. I learned that he had no family left and he enjoyed riding bikes to avoid feeling lonely. By 30 minutes we had become good ol' friends. We spent the rest of the ride laughing and figuring out what each other was saying. By the end of the ride he even began giving me grief for wearing grey socks, apparently Italian's wear white socks. We ended the ride by agreeing to do it again and in broken English he called me friend.

Riding bikes is always a fun sport to do and compete in, but I have to admit, I think I have found it more fun as a social tool. My roommate and I spent last night navigating our way through a part of Florence we had heard brought a young crowd. We found ourselves in a Irish Pub excited to sit have a beer and talk to locals, within 10 minutes of being there, we were surrounded by young drunk American students. We sat back and watched each girl one by one get taken off by available Italian Stallions.

It was a relief to have the experience of the ride I had today. It reminded me how bikes and activities like that opened doors to something so unique. I saw many riders today, including muddy muddy mtn bikes, as we crossed the countryside. If he had looked behind him during those times, he would have seen me jumping up and down with excitement.

So the plan. Keep doin what I'm good at. Find spandexed out people, follow their wheel until they warm up to me, and make new friends. The riding community is strong here so I plan to use my bike as an escape from the city.

The beginning of something beautiful

2011-01-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

Well I got to Florence safely. By the time I got to Florence, I was exhausted from being up for 27 hours, but I was so excited I couldn't even imagine trying to take a nap. I took a taxi from the airport to my new apartment. It is situated in the middle of Florence and about 2 blocks from this:

To say the least, I am very happy to be here. I spent all last night walking around in a haze. With no sleep in a couple of days, I was struggling to stand. I couldn't justify going to sleep though. I live across the street from a pedestrian only road, and was swept away by hearing Italian and smelling pastries. Of course I had to get some gelati, and so in the middle of winter I was skipping down the street eating gelati on a cone and trying not to fall asleep.

I woke up this morning with a huge smile. I quickly reassembled my road bike and went on the 2 mile walk to the local bike shop. I had to walk it because I needed to put pedals on it and I didn't have any air in the tires, so I got some weird looks. I did find a group ride for tomorrow and made some bike shop friends.

I spent the rest of the day getting lost, which is by far one of my favorite activities. I refuse to get a map so I spend most of my days in a new city getting as lost as I can so that I find my way back. I did learn some essential things, though.

1. Even if it is 50 degrees outside, don't wear short sleeves. If you do you'll stick out like a sour thumb and have people constantly asking you, "su caldo?" So put on your fur and earmuffs.

2. If you smile your going to end up with a train of Italian men following you. It's better to master the smile within, which is hard. It's easy to ignore, though, when you can't understand the pick up lines.

3. I found that I have retained actually a good bit of the Italian language from my trips as a child, but I found myself feeling sad because I couldn't say something positive when I met someone so....

Buon Giorno- Good morning

Come va?- How are you

Voui ballare con me?- Will you dance with me (who knows when you might just feel like dancing)

Fa cosi caldo qui o e la tua presenza- Is it hot in here, or is it just you? (that's for you T-Cowie)

Bueno giornata- Have a nice day

The studio starts on Monday, so I am spending these next couple of days getting lost and going on group rides. Tonight I plan to go eat some gelati and pizza. Thank goodness for bikes and walking all day!

Packing the bags and finding the Peace in Life

2011-01-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

Well the time has come, I am finishing the packing for Italy. It looks like I will be having loads of fun with 2 bikes, backpacking gear, climbing shoes, and of course dresses. The last couple of weeks under multiple people's advices I have been going back and forth about what bike(s) to bring. I was told that theft can be bad in Italy, and the idea of my bikes being stolen is too much to handle. I ended up getting in touch with a bike tour company out of florence run by two Irish and Scottish men, and they told me that I would be silly not to bring both bikes. There is a huge riding community and that's where I hope to make my first friends.

Along with packing, I have been on a mission to find peace in my life. My life is filled with such positivity and wonder, but before leaving a huge chapter in my life (college) I wanted to honor the good times and the hard times that made me who I am today. So the past couple of weeks, while traveling back and forth from Asheville and Chattanooga, I have made sure to reflect on these past couple of years. Instead of traveling with a large load that hasn't been sorted through, I have been actively sorting my memories and emotions of the last couple years. And this is the result.

To everyone who has touched my life in the past, thank you. Everyone has touched my life in such a grand and amazing way. The support and criticism has worked together to make me confident and strong in where I am headed. Each person has brought their own strength and wisdom (and humor) and helped make everyday very interesting. I will continue to take those gifts and honor them.

To the people who are the strong presence in my life and will continue to be, I look forward to learning and sharing more memories. Thank you for being at my side when I need a push and a laugh. I wake up everyday with a smile knowing how lucky I am to have such an amazing support. You deal with my stubborn bull headiness and throw it right back at me.

Ok so now that I got the seriousness out of the way! I'm off ya'll to the great unknown that is called Italy. In two days I will be wandering the streets of Florence trying to find the perfect gelati store and bike rides. I'll be drawing nudes and looking forward to playing in the Tuscany countryside. What a life!

Art Therapy in the 3rd world/ cultural differences

2010-12-22T16:47:00.000-08:00

Now that I am home, I wanted to sit down and write about what it was like working in a different culture. We had major ups and downs, and it took us a little more than 2 days, which we had planned to do work during, to get a hold of how to work properly in the environment we were in.

The first major issue was the problem with communication. Jamaicans speak English mixed with an African language. If you have ever heard two Jamaicans talking comfortably, or in some cases angrily, to each other it is nearly impossible to pick up on what they are saying, but when they talked to us we can communicate clearly (well most of the time). Well the past two years I had been in pretty constant contact with Miss Kitty over the phone about this trip and finishing her home. I was confident when we got to Ferry that the house was ready to paint, but because of confusion over the phone, somewhere I had not heard the reality of the condition of her house. When I would talk to her on the phone sometimes I would have to fill words in because it was hard to understand.

Then there is the major problem of race and economic differences. Yes in an ideal world everyone would look beyond these things, but this is not an ideal world. So imagine living in a shanty town and spending everyday worrying about whether or not you and your family will eat, whether or not you will find work to survive. Then groups of white and wealthy people come into your community for a few days. Even though we are there to help it is still a weird situation. My way of trying to get around this fact was to always tell them my job and goal. I would tell them that my only purpose was to help create a safe space for creativity and growth. I told them how I would never understand their life and I didn't intend to. I was not there to tell them how to live or change. I was there to honor their strength and provide them the opportunity to honor it themselves. Many people did not show up because they were skeptical of my intentions. By the end of the week, though, I had many people come up to me and ask me to come back so that more of the community would come. They told me that I had sparked an interest in many people, and that they believed in what it could do to unite people.

Then there is the problem of creating a safe and quiet space. This was hard in both the orphanage and Ferry. In the orphanage there was the constant sounds of babies crying. I had to actually raise my voice higher than I thought so that the children could hear me. Then because we were not in a separate room, we were constantly having to chase after the toddlers from getting into the paint. At Ferry this was most prevalent during the women's mural. The community center was in a fenced in area, so my idea was to lock the fence. The children there are used to all the attention and were extremely upset to see that we weren't going to give it to them that day, so while I was trying to keep a good environment for the women, children were climbing the fence and trying to run into the space. There were constant interruptions and we were having to block kids away from the paint.

This moves me into a very important note. That major problem is their life. A constant sound of crying in the orphanage is probably the most normal sound for those children. Children being unruly, climbing all over the place, and taking all of the attention is a picture of the women of Ferry's life. So while I tried to take these elements out, I had to realize that the safe space I was needing to make should not be about my standards but theirs. Instead of trying to fight it, I needed to work with it. I was swimming against the current and getting worn out. This does not mean that I didn't need to still work on creating the safe space, but it just meant that I needed to understand what it meant to them.

In a situation like Jamaica, art is not a normal activity. Because of this there can be a tendency to hesitate. Just like anywhere else in the world you'll hear people say "I am no artist." It takes some time to explain to them that it is not about skill. This can also be a wonderful thing, though, because of the raw images that come out of it. They view art in a much different way sometimes less critically than we do. I heard form so many women on how they did not realize the amount of talent and creativity that resided in Ferry. I will have to agree, but I wasn't surprised.

A HUGE problem we ran into was the cultural difference of time management. We call it "Jamaican Time." I would say, "ok at 9 am we are going to begin." At 9 am I would see one woman and ask if she was ready, which she would reply "Soon Come."(which in many situations meant Ill be back in a couple hours) I would get Soon Come over and over and over, until I was ready to cry "I know it won't be SOON. Soon isn't a couple hours!!!!" We would have to understand that it could take up to 3-4 hours to get a group together.

I got a lot of response before I went down there about why would I go paint when I could go and give them food or something more essential. The thing is no matter how dire a person's situation is, they still have emotions. There is still rape, abuse, and neglect. One must not forget that just because a person is hungry doesn't mean their emotions should be put aside. My passion is to address these emotions and to give every person the chance to discover their strength and creativity. My goal was to help them to find their inner strength so that they could self motivate.

Ferry- Children's, older boys, community mural

2010-12-19T19:30:00.000-08:00

So today was meant to be our children's and community mural day. The plan was to get there and divide the children into two groups- under 8 and 9 and up, and then meet with the community afterwards. Earlier in the week when we had done the women's mural I had promised to do a male mural. I couldn't tell if there was any interest in it so in all of our shifting of plans, I had just decided to forgo it. Well we get there and I am confronted by about 10 young teenage boys that remind me of my promise. So I rearrange the schedule once again (I'm getting pretty good at this by now) and I instruct half my group to stay outside to work with the younger kids, and Dan and I take the older boys inside the community center.

Remarkably everyone sat down and listened to what I had to say. I told them about what a personal symbol is. I asked them to think about their past, present, and future and what motivates them. I then gave them paper and crayons and let them work. I told them about 20 minutes which I fully expected them to use about 10 of and get distracted, but it ended up that I actually had to bring them back together. They became very immersed in their own drawing. The main image that came up was dominos. They explained that dominos had been introduced into the community as a way to motivate the kids to do something during their free time. The result was them winning tournaments in the first year. It was a very touching story to hear. I was able to witness how they worked together to better their skills with friendly competition.

I then released them to paint, while reminding them that now they are putting their individual images together and creating a community. I wanted them to think about this because it is a metaphor on how each person can come together harmoniously and create a beautiful community. I noticed that they didn't need me breathing down their neck, so I invited the rest of the kids into the community center.

I said the same thing to the children and let them draw. They too became very immersed in their drawings, but some children did lose attention fast. Being aware of that I gave the kids enough time to draw but ended it before there was too much chaos. Many children drew hearts that contained the names of everyone they loved, and even one child under it said "I love me." Some children drew themselves playing their favorite sport, and then some drew trees and suns to symbolize their individual ideas of what they mean. I gave the ones who wanted to talk about it a chance to speak and then let them join the older kids outside painting.

We did run into the problem of little space, but it seemed to resolve itself. Other problem areas consisted of some of the older boys writing inappropriate things and paint getting EVERYWHERE, but all and all in turned out awesome. Each child was able to take my hand and take me to their own image. Miss Kitty and a man named Trevor both told me how much it meant to them to see the children working together.

It became time for us to leave and I wanted to say final words about the murals and invite anyone else to join in. I played for them the song "I'm the worlds greatest" and told them that they were the worlds greatest. We then danced, A LOT. When we left there were still children and young teens painting.

Tomorrow is our last day. It's sad but I am confident that we came here and did want was needed, even with the mass chaos.

Eleanor just gave me this saying I thought was appropriate:
Keep us, O God,
from all pettiness.
Let us be large in thought,
in word, in deed.
Let us be done with fault-finding and leave off all self-seeking.
May we put away all pretense and meet each other face to face,
without self-pity and without prejudice.
Grant that we may realize that it is the little things of life that create differences,
that in the things of life we are as one.
And, O God,
Let us not forget to be kind.

The Orphanage- Try #2

2010-12-17T19:05:00.000-08:00

Well as I said before the first time we went to the orphanage the older children didn't get there until 5 minutes before our departure. I was very disappointed in this and my group, being the support they are, said that we could retry today.

We arrived in good ol' Jamaican fashion, an hour late, with a large black bag full of sweet sweet art goodies. They were expecting us, and had the older children ready for us. They told me the best place to do it was in the dining nook, where there was benches and tables lining the little area. We had 17 children ranging from about 5-8 years old. The area they gave me was perfect because the tables faced the middle of the area so they could all face me, but also it set boundaries for less chaos.

I was happily suprised at how well I could get their attention especially because there was a constant background noise of crying. So I began my session. I asked the children what an angel was. The only response I really could get was Gabriel. I then elaborated that an angel is an invisible being that each individual child has. This being is always there to support the child especially when they are sad and need a hug. I asked the children if they ever felt like that. They nodded in agreement, and I went to explain that they should always know that something is supporting them.

I then introduced the idea of creating their angel. I showed them the makeshift dolls that Ari and I had made, and told them that this was their chance to create and make their angel beautiful. We handed out the dolls and placed the paint down. We had a pretty successful time, but we did need to rap things up when some children were getting carried away with licking the paint instead of using it. We ended up getting a lot of greyish brown angels because they loved being able to blend the paint together.

After we settled the children as well as we could and before we took the dolls to dry. I told the children that whenever they felt sad they now had something they could hold and hug. I suspect that many children just enjoyed the actual action of painting (and eating it in some cases), which is fine because that is the beauty of art therapy, but I did have some very touching conversations with some of the children. One child had created a face with his and very carefully created a design. He seemed to have attached himself emotionally with his creation.

What I would do different. Well probably use fabric pens instead of paint. I had them available for any child who didn't like paint, but the art therapy experts are right when you offer a fluid type of material the result is more energy.

All together I was touched and amazed that this project ended up working well, and tomorrow is a well deserved relaxation on the beach

Women's Mural

2010-12-16T20:49:00.000-08:00

After many many bumps in the road, we did art!!!!!!

As stated before, we have had two days of figuring out our surroundings with no success in what I had originally planned. Today made up for it. We got to Ferry ready to get the women together. I had spent all Tuesday trying to prepare them to be ready, but in the style of Ferry things don't go well on a time line. We spent about 2 hours trying to get enough women together. I was defiantly feeling a little frantic that once again it wouldn't happen, but soon enough we had enough women.

I started the group by telling the women why I was there. The reason being that 4 years ago, I was taken a back by the incredible strength that I saw in the women sitting in front of me. I couldn't believe how much love and beauty they brought to the community. I told them that this mural was to honor that strength and to show the community and world that. I then asked them to take some time to draw out their own personal symbol. It could be about that strength or just to express who they were.

When we were ready, I told them that I wanted to make sure they knew that I could never know or completely understand what their life is, but that my role was to create a safe space. Each individual woman got a chance to describe their symbol. The result was astonishing. They really dug deep to express themselves. I couldn't believe the result.

After we all finished, I told them that we were now going to put the images together into a mural. They began working with each other to see how they could combine their images, and ended up just excitingly getting up and doing their images separately but still together. At first I noticed they worked on their own, but soon they were over lapping and even helping. One woman decided to write a poem, which she then explained she had never let anyone read her poetry before.

The result:
I got many different reactions to this project. They were all very positive, though. Some women explained that they never knew how creative the women of Ferry could be, let alone themselves. One woman said that she enjoyed feeling like she had a voice and that she created something that would remain in history. They all said, though, that they could not believe how this project brought all of them together where they got along and bonded. They told me that they hope it can happen again so that more women will come. Another favorite was when one woman said that she had a hard time expressing herself in words, and when she was drawing her image she didn't know how to explain it, but when it was her turn she knew exactly what to say.

The Reality:
Ok so it was a wonderful project, but I have to say it did not go from point A to point B without a lot of work. This all happened and the result was amazing, but the reality is that we (by we I mean the group) spent a lot of time and energy keeping the rest of the community from interrupting. At first the women didn't know why we were spending so much time fending of the energetic children, but by the end they were yelling saying "It's woman time, let us alone." It was also hard getting the women interested even after I had gotten them together, but as I watched them draw their first image I noticed an increasing amount of interaction and enjoyment, and it only got better.

The first 3 days of Jamaica

2010-12-15T15:28:00.000-08:00

I am writing after being in Kingston for 3 days now. We have visited Ferry and the orphanage.

Eleanor and I arrived in Kingston at 11:30 anticipating everyone else to arrive between then and 4:30. We had already had one mishap when Ari and Dan wrecked Dan's truck 2 miles from Dan's house trying to get to ATL the night before. Luckily with good ol' Brevardians they were able to make it to get Ari's car. Well about an hour after being in Kingston I recieve a message from Jamie saying that her passport was expired and she was stuck in the FL airport, Eleanor and I looked at eachother and knew this was the first of many bumps to come. Luckily Ari, Dan, and Gloria got here on time. We went food shopping and arrived at the convent to rest and get ready for the day.

Tuesday was planned to be the Women's day at Ferry. We got a late start to the day because we had to get paints, but we finally did get to Ferry. I had previously warned our traveling companions to get used to having children always with them. I still think they were suprised. In the fashion of Ferry, we were immediately trampeded by children. I made my way through the mass of children and found Miss Kitty with her arms wide open. I have to admit there were a few tears, and it only got worse when I saw Miss Sallt too.

Miss Kitty took my hand and showed me her house, which is where we had planned on doing the mural. To my suprise it was not ready to be painted. The windows were not up and the walls were still unfinished. Before I could react, though, Miss Sally told me that we could "give the school a new face lift." I was so relieved, but once again before I could react with a sigh of relief she informed me that we couldn't start until Thursday. Well that's how it goes when your in Jamaica, you plan and plan and even when you think you are prepared to be flexible, reality taked you off your feet. The rest of the day was spent making sure everyone was prepared for Thursday, and sitting and talking to Miss Kitty on how to talk to the individul groups and what is important to bring up. When it was time to go, I found my fellow travelers exhausted with children climbing all over them. Welcome to Ferry!!!!

So during the night we assessed the damage on the poor schedule, and discussed what the plans were for today. I heard many funny and touching stories from the group, and even though the original plan did not work I truly believe it worked out for the best. Now everyone in Ferry is ready for the murals and the group is ready for Ferry.

So I woke up today hopeful and ready to have a more structured day. We headed to the orphanage, where I had planned to do angel dolls. The dolls were going to be decorated byt the older children, to sympbolize comfort and letting them know there is an angel looking after them. The pschological background of that is the dolls are a "transitional" object, which means it is an object that indirectly symbolizes the movement from a child's attachment from a mother's arm to something like a "blankie." My idea was that because most of the children had not experienced love from a mother, that this soft object could comfort them.

Well Jamaica happened again! We get there knowing that the older children were on an outing and what was left was the nursery children. This was fine for the time being because I was told the older children would be back later. This project would only work for the older children because of the painting supplies, so I instructed the group to interact with the babies, who do not get to be held much.

We were very happy playing with the children but I was noticing that time was coming close to be the end of the day. I have to admit I was getting pretty nervous. I decided to act on my feet and bring out crayons for the older nursery children so that we could at least do some art. I spent a lot of time with one child who actually was 8, but was left behind on the outing. During the rest of the time I periodically would sit with him and listen to him talk about his art. I was amazed by how much he opened up to me as the time went by. At first he would not talk to me but by the end of the time he wouldn't let me leave.

As for the rest of the nursery children, we all spent a lot of time providing more paper and sitting with them. We did do a lot of "crayon managmement" also though, which means we spent a lot of time making sure the crayons weren't getting put places they shouldn't. You don't have to use much imagination to figure out what I mean. To say the least it was chaos, but a learning experience also. We had about 15 small babies to try to art with. It obviously, once again, did not go at all as planned. I am keeping hopeful on the days to come. We still have 5 days to figure out how to work in Jamaica.

After 3.5 years and a beautiful collage of schools it all comes to an end

2010-12-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

Well it's true after 3.5 schools and 3.5 years this girl is graduating! How on earth can I graduate early after going to 3 1/2 schools, you might ask. Well I went like this:

I entered Warren Wilson and realized that even though dancing in circles and not showering is fun, I needed a more academic life. (one year)

Yep dancing in circles is fun

One of my favorite memories: 1rst weekend of Wilson showing up to meet new friends so excited I had found a wig shop in downtown Asheville

Then I went to UNC Asheville and got instate to everyone's surprise! Then they told me in order to graduate with my mixture of Art and Psychology I would be in undergrad for 6 years. So that didn't last long. (one year)

Good ol' Collegiate Season and all it's mud

I then went to Brevard. Won two national championships with the team and one individual. Rode a lot of Pisgah. And then finally graduated. (1.5 years)

During my first year at Brevard, I drove an hour and a half two days a week to take 12 hours in all at Converse College to take Art Therapy specific classes. This was by far my most influential school. I learned here that Art Therapy was my passion and without this education I wouldn't be where I am today.

Then I spent the summer at an internship in Portland, OR where I participated in learning how to be an:

Art Therapy Student

Mtn Bike Bum by sleeping on this goof balls couch every weekend

and I didn't learn anything in particular by this: But love you Tiffy for coming to live with me for a while

When people ask me of my experience in school, I usually just say it was a collage of many beautiful experiences and schools. Most of the experiences were backed up by frolicking and exploring the beautiful Appalachian Mtns.

I do want to take this moment to thank everyone who supported as they have now been referenced to as the "wiggles" I obviously didn't sit still well, but I promised I would come out with exactly what I needed to be a future Art Therapist. I know that it will show in whether or not I get into graduate school, but I am leaving this experience with an education and life experiences I never could have gotten without my wiggles. I feel confident with what I have absorbed from school, and hey this experience has taught me that I am one hell of a negotiator, so if the whole art therapy thing doesn't work, I've got that going for me.

This is a quick over view of the last four years and it's only focused on my school experience. I knew entering my freshman year at WWC that I didn't want to have a typical college life. I wanted to immerse myself in the community in Asheville. I happily did so and had many wonderful times. This probably attributed to my wiggles because my social life usually had very little to do what school I was at and more just living in Asheville.

So good bye for now Asheville. The mountains have kept me here for 3 1/2 years but it's time for more exploring. I hope to wiggle myself back here when it's time to stand still.

Thank you so much for everything! I am an incredibly fortunate lady!

Whats next?

Jamaica on Monday (see post below)

Then a one way ticket to Florence Italy to study how to draw nudes classically

The planning of an Art Therapy Trip to Jamaica

2010-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Miss Kitty in her kitchen in the making 2 years ago

If anyone has talked to me in the last year, I'm sure you have heard me talk about my plans to go to Kingston Jamaica to do a group Art Therapy session in a community that I call my family. This will be my 4th time going to this community. I continue going here because of the love that immediately embraced me the first time I stepped off the bus. Here I will try to explain the workings of my plan.

the first mural I did in Ferry

I am an undergraduate Art Therapy student. My education is a collage of schools and internships that is ending in December. I have been blessed to learn so much about this profession even before going into my masters program. I am now excited and ready to learn more by putting it into practice (with the help of a registered art therapist and mentor).

Me and a group of 4-5 people are flying down to Kingston Jamaica on December 13th. In this trip we have an experienced Jamaica tripper, a professional videographer, a wonderful goof ball of a man (thanks dan), and another wonderful girl! I have been so blessed to get this group of people to volunteer their time. We are planning on working in the community of Ferry and an orphanage.

A painting I did with a friend there

In the community of Ferry, I have met the two strongest women. They oversee the whole community with love and wisdom. 2 years ago as I was boarding the bus and saying good bye, Miss Kitty (one of the women) came to me and asked when I came back if I could do murals on her home that she was building for the unofficially adopted 18 children that were living in her 2 room home. For the last 2 years she has been waking up at 5 am in the morning to build a home big enough to house the children who have been placed in her care. She puts everyone before her own needs even when it comes to sleep and food. This is my chance to honor her life's hard work.

My goal is to invite the community to paint murals on her house with the themes of hope, love, and a bright future. This will allow a dialogue amongst the community members on many different problems and dreams they have.

For example I would like a children's day, a women's day, and a men's day. During these group times I would like to have 2-3 groups so that each group has just the right amount of people to participate and have a voice.

Here is an example of what a individual group might look like:

I would introduce the idea I have for that certain mural (painting) to the group and allow the individuals to speak up about their ideas and thoughts

Then I would pass out paper and pencils and ask the individuals to draw an image of their idea or hopes

We would present the images to the rest of the group and begin to think of how the mural can incorporate everyone's idea

We will then begin to paint the mural and continue to talk about how to make these hopes a reality

sometime art makes a mark on us more than we think it will

For the orphanage, depending on restrictions we may come into. I would also like to create a mural with the children. The children in the orphanage deserve to have a voice and I hope to give them the tools to do so.

I will have more information as time comes closer. But for now I ask anyone who is able to give a donation for paints and materials. Right now the money put aside for it is going into inflated airplane prices. This trip will be put into a documentary that I plan will shine a light on what art therapy is and also the stories of the special people who live in this community.

I almost feel selfish. I go down there with intentions to help and end up leaving feeling like they have given me so much more than I ever can give them.

Miss Kitty putting her mark on the mural

I will add pictures when I can
My email is alexisdecosimo@gmail.com if you are able to donate

Embracing Fall

2010-10-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

I headed home to Chattanooga this weekend to recover from a cold I got in California and to also see my family and friends. It was so nice to be home. On the way home and back, though, I stopped on the Cullasaja River near Highlands, NC to paint and enjoy the fall colors. I love this river and wanted to enjoy fall while it is here.

This is the result. It is defiantly a work in progress. In my Art Therapy mindset, I really was able to connect with the painting that was evolving and relate it to myself. What came up on the canvas is actually (and pretty obviously) not what I was looking at. I figured this out pretty early on and I came to terms that I was more being moved by my surroundings instead of wanting to duplicate it.

I always talk about Art Therapy, but I thought I would use this painting as an example of one of many many ways of looking at art in a therapeutic way and how we might interpret it.

One of my favorite interventions is asking someone to draw/ create a tree. We do this because trees can say so much about life. You must look at how the tree developed, what season the tree is placed in, are the roots strong, is there a knot hole, etc. Where I was standing there was no tree at the bottom of the rapid, but I felt compelled to place it there and learned why I had.

In this section of my life, everything is changing and moving rapidly into something new. I am having to learn what I need to let go of in order to grow and make room for new things (leaves). I am also learning what is the most important parts of my life and how to make them stronger (rings in the trunk). The river is constantly moving allowing me to make mistakes and move on, but also giving me strength. Through all this, I still remain calm and ready for the excitement ahead.

This is not meant to dive deep into my psyche for the world to see, but I feel like I try to explain what Art Therapy is but without examples it seems to become to complicated. Art is a great way of learning about yourself, which in turn allows you to grow.

When your bored one day, draw a tree. Think about what a tree needs to survive. I am fully aware that most people will read this and laugh cause it is probably the most hippie thing you've read in a while. I do have to say, though, I have been lucky to watch this intervention work. I asked a group of women to do this, and the result was astonishing. Each woman learned a new things about their lives, and each one responded that they felt stronger and more aware.

So anyways. Go enjoy the fall!!!!

Just a few more pictures

2010-10-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

Taken from velonews.com

Following Rachel in short track

Crossing the finish line as national champ

Brevard College once again D2 national champs! 3rd in overall omnium for women

2010-10-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

Bringing home:

Bronze- 4th in XC

Gold/ stars and bars- National Champ in Short Track

Bronze- 3rd overall woman

Gold/ Stars and Bars- Team Overall National Champ

This has been a pretty exciting and surprising week. I did not expect for anything to happen. The past year almost has been very off an on riding, but fun riding. I stopped training and decided to use bikes once again as a means of relaxation. So coming into this week, I just wanted to have fun at my last collegiate nationals. Never did I expect to get my first national champion individual title.

Today was our last race, which was downhill. Not much to say for it because all I could do with my tired body was hold on. I have been racing all week towards the omnium, which is overall points in all 4 races. After my 2 podiums in the endurance side, I made it a goal to get at least top 5. I was lucky and landed at 3rd.

3rd place omnium

Then came the team overall title. We won last year, but all season we have been behind Union college in conference. We cut it close, but as a team we pulled it off. Yes we are the new and returning National Champions. I would like to recognize that the everyone on the team made this win possible. Each finish put us towards the win.

Collegiate cycling is now becoming part of my past. I went out better than I ever could expect and I look forward to what is ahead. I am looking into turning my bike back into a single speed and looking into longer races. Maybe a 24 hour solo could be in my future. Who knows!

Some pictures

2010-10-16T21:54:00.000-07:00

National Champion

4th in XC

Kate and I in the 4X

Congrats to Geoff (3rd) and Thomas (5th)

the Brevard Ladies

Down hill tomorrow and we will find out individual omnium and maybe oh maybe another team national!

The New D2 Short Track National Champion

2010-10-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Short Track National Champ

I entered this race with high expectations. I have always done better in short track. I warmed up just like yesterday, but I had my eye on something I couldn't put my finger on it. When we lined up to the start line, I began dancing. I can't help it. There was techno in the background and I was so happy.

The gun went off and Rachel from Union (someone who has always beat me) and I immediately made a gap on the rest of the group. My goal was to stay on her wheel. It was a 30 min race and all I needed was to keep with her. She is a strong racer and a strong descender. I would be on her wheel on the long gravel uphill but she would make a 5 second lead on the single track descent. I then would have to work even harder to get her wheel on the climb. My teammates began telling me to pass her on the uphill, but it was unimaginable to me to be coming home with the nationals jersey, so I stayed conservative.

3 laps to go. I was hitting her wheel on the uphill and just decided to go. Still couldn't grasp on to the fact that I was in the lead to bring home the jersey. I slapped a big smile on my face, so that I could keep my positive calm attitude, and I dug my heels in.

2 laps to go. On the top of the climb, I looked behind and realized I couldn't see her. I couldn't believe it! Could I really be riding to a collegiate nationals victory? I stayed conservative on the single track. I couldn't let myself wreck.

1 lap to go. She is no where in sight. I made my last effort on the hill and made sure I didn't wreck in the single track. I came through the last stretch, hearing all cheers. I could hear the announcer talking about the how I was coming in for the win. I turned into the sketchy gravel, almost convinced I'd eat it. 10 feet, 5 feet, and finish line.

I did it! The unimaginable became a reality. I had put about 20- 30 seconds on 2nd and almost lapped the whole field. I was the short track national champion. I crossed the finish line and was immediately tackled by Geoff. He literally picked me up and we just screamed. I then sat on the ground in shock and was surrounded by so many people. I was on a cloud. I couldn't believe it. I was embraced by so many people. That made me more happy than the actual win. The amazing feeling to be surrounded by so many great people was amazing.

I spent the rest of the day calling people either crying or laughing and both. Then raced 4x, which I just wanted to place and be done with. Shout out to my boys Geoff and Thomas for getting 3rd and 5th. I felt honored to be the person to tackle them after their awesome finishes.

I also want to recognize my awesome team. They have been awesome this weekend. We have numerous podiums to get on tonight, and they continue to put the hurt on everyone.

It goes to show a positive attitude can overcome not being in shape

Well that hurt/ was fun- Nationals XC

2010-10-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today was the XC race at the crack of dawn. I came hoping for another top ten like last year, but also allowing myself to dream higher. I've been in a little bit of a funk the past couple of days, but with the help of some good friends and laughter I started to turn around by the morning. Morgan and I spent about an hour on the trainer trying to keep our spirits up.

We headed to the start line. I was still in my head and trying to get back into my happy positive self. As we were standing there waiting to be called out, I broke out in an all out dance. I made myself laugh and just kept dancing until I felt like myself. It worked!! By the time the count down started, I was relaxed and ready to go.

The start of the race couldn't have gone any better. I got behind 3rd place and tried to relax, but I realized I could defiantly go faster. So to my surprise I past 3rd and 2nd, which put me into 2nd! I kept this spot for half of the race. I was climbing like I have never climbed, but don't worry the smile never left my face. I was stoked! 2nd place at nationals I never thought I could do that.

But of course you should never count your chickens before they hatch. Both legs started to cramp on the first lap. They became so bad, that I could hardly move my legs. This is were the Positivity comes in play. My body was wanting to quit, but I couldn't let myself. I began to notice things around me and made sure the smile was still on my face. I began thinking about all the things I was grateful for and I kept pedaling.

Now the cramps started in lap 1, but we had to race 3 laps. This really was a test for my mentality to conquer my body. I was passed on the decent by the two girls but I had to keep going. I focused on how to move my legs so that I could minimize the seizing. There were times that I defiantly wanted to fall and let my legs go through the stages, but nope! I kept telling myself "Your so lucky! Don't take advantage! This will pass!"

I finished 4th with a smile and a spot on the podium. I defiantly got off my bike and immediately fell. Instead of crying though I burst out laughing (a good alternative I guess).

Now it's time to rest and practice down hill. I look forward to short track tomorrow. As long as I keep myself hydrated and smiling I will be able to do my best tomorrow.

Finishing in 4th

Racing XC

The Team

Thursday- Day before the races begin

2010-10-14T20:01:00.000-07:00

We are settling in. Today consisted of resting and pre riding the xc. The course is pretty much the same as last year. We climb up a gravel road to a pretty long up hill single track climb. Following that is an uphill rock garden, which I cleaned making me feel pretty stoked. Then the downhill comes. It consists of tight switch backs and a rock garden. I am feeling pretty confident, but I also am defiantly feeling the altitude. The climb hurts because it is so hard to breath up here.

As for fun stuff. It's been low key, which is good. I've got a long weekend. I've gotten more wet willies than I can count, though, and my face has been spit swiped way to many times (geoff I'm gonna get you back eventually). There is the sweater in the picture along with a cookie monster costume. Ah good times.

Ah the ridiculousness!
Unfortunately it's the only picture I took today
"kitties are the chocolate chips in the cookie that is life"

More exciting news tomorrow (I hope)

We are here

2010-10-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well I have found myself back on the west coast. I must say that it makes me miss the Portland area being around all of these pine trees. We have been up since 2 am Eastern time and now it is 11:30 eastern time. YAWN

Because of this all I have to say is tomorrow is looking to be a good day to pre ride and rest. The XC is on friday morning, so I'll have more to say tomorrow.

Middle Mtn

California! Here We Coooommmeee

2010-10-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

MM the soundtrack to the OC. Brings me back to my awkward high school days

Well aside from being cheesy, the title says what I'm about to tell you. The Brevard Mtn Bike team is headed to North Star in Truckee, CA at 2:30 am Wednesday. We'll be there defending our team national title and kicking butt the way we know how. We have a great team and a great attitude.

I prepared this weekend by frolicking in the woods and hanging out with my brosef Garnett. Friday I headed to Athens, Ga to drop Bennett off and see how my brother spends his free time. Lucky for me it was the day before the GA and TN game. Garn and his friends took me around Athens to show me what it is like to live a "college" life.
Things I learned:

You must let go of any personal space issues if you head into an Athens bar, cause there is no room for your personal bubble. Well heck there is hardly any room for you
When people start cheering, you might as well learn the chant and fist pumping. Cause pumping your fist like everyone else can act as a shield from intoxicated fist pumpers
Due to the crowded space, when dancing don't move your feet just wobble, it helps limit the amount of accidental encounters. Avoid the noodle dance, you might loose the control of your extremities and slap someone in the face

bobble head vs noodle

You must always have a drink in hand, or you'll come to the awkward realization that you have those hands and what you should do with them comes into question (Talladega Nights style)
Ninja'ing- The act of disappearing from a social scene without the others noticing (oops)
Living in Brevard, NC and going to all the schools I have been to does not match up to the "college" life of UGA, but hey I'll take Pisgah any day

Color is off, but I think it does the job

Saturday involved backpacking up to Sam's Nob up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I packed two canvases and paints, but ended up just sitting in awe of the fall colors unable to figure how I could match it. I picked to go up the long way to the spot, but due to my great sense of direction and lack of trail memory, we found ourselves literally army crawling through the rhododendrons up the side of the mtns. It took us about 2 hours to crawl up the mtn and about 20 minutes (on the trail) to get down. I have to say nothing beats staring up at stars without the light pollution of a city.

Next post I'll be in Cali.

Work in Progress, but went back to Pisgah to enjoy the fall colors

The end of the Dirty Dirty SECCCCCCCC

2010-10-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

There isn't enough words to comment on this picture

Well not really, but this weekend it was the end of a era in my life. After 3 different teams, numerous mini bike crashes, many times of being mooned as I entered the woods in short track, Christmas sweaters, oh yeah and racing bicycles it's over. The Georgia Tech race was this weekend, which was also conference championships. It went well I got 4th in Short Track and 2nd in XC, another victory for a single speeder. I ended the season with probably the best XC race I have ever raced. But I want to recap on all the ridiculousness of the past 3 years:

the excursions of the mini bikes

Racing for UNCA at nationals, dedicated family

The famous Ramada night, where we all almost got kicked out of the hotel

racing for Warren Wilson

and of course

National Champs

Don't worry there is one more thing before the door completely closes. We are off to California next week to defend the national title. So don't worry there is one more chance for ridiculousness!!!!

Naikan

2010-10-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

What has this person done for me in a positive way?
What have I done for this person in a positive way?
How have I troubled this person?- the three questions asked in Naikan

I feel truly inspired. No this post is not about bikes or adventures, but it is about a method of self reflection being used as a therapeutic tool, which to me is just if not more exciting. I wanted to share this knowledge because I truly feel it has changed the way I look at how I want to be a psychologist and person.

Naikan- is a buddhist inspired method of self- reflection. It is not a method that involves religion, but it was discovered in Japan by a Buddhist. The reason that it has touched me like this is because it focuses on the positive things in life opposed to focusing on the negative and traumatizing aspects. In western culture therapy is centered around what negative things have been done to us and how to work through it. This method focuses on what support we have gotten in our life and how we were helped to just generally survive to this very moment.

Everyone of us would not be alive if we had not received help. We are born completely vulnerable and without the help of a community or family humans would not be in existence. We tend to focus on attitudes put forth when we have received help, or what negative thing was done to us. Naikan invites us to focus on the qualitative aspect of what a person did to help us. There is a lot that goes into this method and I don't want to lose your attention so I am only going to attempt the most general idea.

Imagine someone you feel resentment towards. Now instead of focusing on what negative things they have done, focus on what good things they did for you. Then focus on what good things you have done for them. And last focus on what negative things you have done to hurt them. Avoid at all costs focusing on their negative actions, though. What the result is a feeling of being humble and a sense of gratefulness. Even the worst people in the world has provided for someone at least one time in their life.

What I am getting at is why should we live our life focusing on negativity and feeling like a victim? We all have done good and bad things in our life and so have the people around us. But we should not live any second of our life focusing on how we have been hurt. That was the past. What we should focus on is how grateful we are for what the people in our life have done for us. We must always be aware of who we invite into our lives, but we must be grateful for the encounters we have had. They make us who we are today.

I couldn't help to share this. I stumbled across it yesterday and I just couldn't help my excitement. I hope to focus more on this method of therapy. The best way to help someone is to give them the access to realize what good is in their life.

“Man need only divert his attention from searching for the solution to external questions and pose the one, true inner question of how he should lead his life, and all the external questions will be resolved in the best possible way.”Leo Tolstoy

Clemson Race

2010-09-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

Woo am I tired! This past weekend has been full of racing, laughing, and mud, but isn't that what makes life so good?

Saturday the Brevard team headed to the Clemson race at the crack of dawn, 6:00 to be exact. Thank goodness for being a morning person. We got to the venue way before we needed to race, but soon enough the ladies were lining up to race short track. It was a great race, I even maintained 3rd place on my little single speed. Then we quickly moved to getting ready for downhill. Another great race, except for it being 90 degrees and humid. Everyone was in such a great mood. I love the hootin and hollerin. The last race of the day was dual slalom. After getting a detailed walk through of the lines, I was pumped to race. I was able to get to the second to last heat and get 4th. Let me just say that by the time we finished it was dark. I was so tired but really enjoyed myself. How can I not? When you put bikes, college kids, and dirt in an equation you just get a ridiculous amount of goofiness.

Sunday was the XC race. I woke up to the pitter patter of raindrops. Yay mud! I was worried about this race because there are a lot of flat sections, and if anyone knows about single speeds that is the worst kind of race. No matter how fast your little legs can spin, you ain't goin anywhere anytime soon. Luckily it stopped raining for our race, so I had that going for me.
A brief run-down of the race-
Got the sprint into the woods as the 1rst woman. Got caught on the flat section as my legs flailed around. Went BBBRRRAAAAPP into the muddy corners, I even stuck out my leg a couple times to make the corners. Felt great on the hills. Spinny Spinny-> legs on fire on the uphills-> WEEEEEE-> spinny spinny. Got my first 2nd place, which I was excited about.

All together this was a great weekend. I'm really trying to enjoy every moment before it's over. Luckily I don't have to try too hard. Hopefully I will be able to get some pictures eventually.

As for other fun things. I started swing dancing in Asheville. I began learning in Portland and I wanted to continue doing it. Asheville dancers have a different way to swing. It's a slower pace but nothing I can't get used to or I'm gonna start giving the leaders coffee as they walk in.
I defiantly stole this from T-Cowie's blog but it totally just made my day

Ah the simplicity of life and happiness. Hope that made ya laugh too

Oops no Florida

2010-09-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

The ESTU team and I did not get to go to the University of Florida race unfortunately. No worries, though, the Christmas sweater still made an appearance.

This is what happens when Christmas sweaters don't get used for SECCC races

Poor Bennett didn't have a chance

Blech

2010-09-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

Well Lee's McCrae was this weekend. Friday I had my final job interview for the Autism Society (which I officially got). I started feeling sick by then but I was summoned to Banner Elk anyways to race Saturday and Sunday. I got there Friday night still feeling pretty sick but ready to race.

Saturday came around and I woke up to a horrible soar throat and a deep cough. With encouragement from the team coach I rode down with T-Cowie and crew to the race venue. And oh what a beautiful day it was! 50's and raining. My favorite! 2 hours later and one soaked cold racer, I decide that it was not a good idea to race. I had already completely lost my voice and was running a fever. So sweet Julia drove me back to the team's condo and I drove home. The rest of the weekend consisted of me crawling from the couch to the kitchen. I learned Monday I had a bad case of Bronchitus. It's ok Bennett, being the good dog he is, was a wonderful cuddle buddy. I would like to thank my best friend Tiffany for calling in cold medicine for the cold and chocolate for the rest.

For the rest of my life. It's been good. Positivity has remained a constant in my life. I think I may have even connected back to my big free flowing skirt days. There defiantly been a couple of little bumps, but I've been blessed to carry a smile throughout the days. I almost sometimes feel like I am floating on clouds. but as thoreau said

"Do not worry if you have built your castles in the air. They are where they should be. Now put the foundations under them"

For the first time in my life I feel like my foundations are being built. I got a job in a field that connects what I will be doing the rest of my life, I am 2 1/2 months from my last class in undergraduate, and I am finishing my applications for graduate/ Psy' D programs.

Thanks to the rocks in my life. You know who you are, and if you don't You'Z so Silly!

IBEX

2010-09-09T10:56:00.001-07:00

So I mentioned a month ago that I did a modeling thing for Ibex merino wool. Well here's the evidence:
Ibex
Pretty fun to see things like that!

Anywhoo that's all for now. Race this weekend in Banner Elk and I got a job with the Autism Society in Asheville part time, where I will be working one on one with an individual here in Brevard.

It's a Wonderful Life

2010-09-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well I thought I might write an update on how life has been. I was supposed to go to Fl to race, but idiotically missed the ETSU "limo". That was the start of a pretty bad weekend. I defiantly missed the Christmas sweaters and Little Mermaid soundtrack that was going to go down.

So after a pretty rocky weekend I made it a goal to turn my luck around. The first thing was to ride up to the top of Bennett Gap in Pisgah and spend 3 hours watercoloring. This involved of course watercoloring, but also frolicking and dancing in the woods. Sounds pretty silly, but when your by yourself and enjoying the embrace of the Appalachian mtns there is no reason not to dance.

As for racing and other parts of life not involving frolicking, I am working on getting a job and anticipating a weekend of racing at Lee's McCrae in Banner Elk, NC.

I am learning to embrace the up and downs of life especially how rapid it's going to change after I finish school in December. I'm staying optimistic and relying on the loving support of friends and family, and of course enjoying every bit of time I get to hide away (and dance) in the mtns.

Dirty Dirty SECCC- First Collegiate Race of the Season

2010-08-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

My favorite picture taken my first collegiate race at ETSU, I still haven't fully recovered

Well this weekend was the first collegiate race of the season (my last season) at my favorite race venue ETSU!
Not only do they have some of the best courses. They also have some of the best people. No matter what school jersey I am wearing I always have a special place in my heart for ETSU. Luckily, maybe to some people's surprise, I am in the same jersey as last year.
Anywhoo on to the race reports. The first race to go off on saturday morning was short track. A recap to anyone who might be confused at what this might be. It's a race where you typically go around a grass field/ short section of single track for a gruesome 20- 25 minutes, while getting egged on by people who do not have to go around in circles. It is not odd to enter into the woods in one of these collegiate races and see a couple bare butts ( usually from ETSU boys) waiting for you. Well the race went fine even on my little single speed. I planted myself firmly in 4th place, and still had enough breath to hoot and holla' when need be.

Next race downhill. By far not my specialty, but thanks to instructions from the ETSU boys (thanks Geoff and Thomas) I kept the rubber side down and finished without need of medical attention.

4X was about the same. A little reminder- 4X is when you have 3 other girls right beside you while you try to make down a course full of burms and jumps. Also not my specialty but quite fun. I did get 4th in that race as well, though.

Ah and then there's XC. I was a little curious as to how the SS would hold up, but I wasn't too worried. One major note to single speeders is to get in front of the pack when entering the woods. I got stuck behind a couple of girls, and because I need more momentum to get up steep hills I kept hitting their back tire. All is good because I passed them and continued my race with no problems. Once again I secured a 4th place finish. There must be something with this 4 number.

As for the rest of my life everything is good. I am settled back into the good ol' Appalachian mtns. Bennett even seems to be more settled. As soon as he hit some of our favorite trails, I could tell his spirits were soaring. There's no doubt this is where I will always call home.

AH HOME AGAIN

2010-08-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's been exactly a week since I have been home. Home meaning 2 days in Chattanooga then a drive to Brevard for 2 days then back to Chattanooga. I am convinced I just don't know how not to be in the car. So recap:

Garnett and Finn picked me up in Portland. From my last post, we spent our last night in Hood River. I miss the Hood a lot. I really appreciate the time I was able to spend there. Wonderful people and beautiful trails became my little hiding spot from the big city. The next day we made a 10 hour drive to Bozeman Montana. I love love love Montana. If I didn't feel so drawn to Appalachia, I would be packing my bags to get to Montana. It is absolutely breath taking.

The next day we headed through Yellow Stone to Jackson Hole. I was lucky enough to have Garnett and Finn drop me off so that I could ride behind them on my bike, and because it was pretty flat and because of the ridiculous traffic I wasn't far behind the car for the 16 miles.

The next day was Jackson Hole. Garnett and Finn headed to see the Grand Tetons and I headed to the local trails. I waited for about 5 minutes and found two ladies to ride with. I'm pretty sure they thought I was crazy because the whole time I was squealing with excitement. The swoopy trails were surrounded by the most beautiful wild flowers. After that ride we headed to our family friends in WY. They took us to a WY county fair. I have to say I have never enjoyed country music so much in my life. I typically hate country but it's hard to do that when your surrounded by WY cowboys/girls. It was so much fun!!

The next day we were off to Denver, CO. We stopped in Fort Collins and Boulder. I was getting pretty tired by then. Throughout what we call the "pretty drive", Garn Finn and I were enjoying being in the car, but after Denver it was all downhill. Eastern CO, Kansas, MI yuck!! Garnett and Finn were driving monsters, but I think it's because they didn't want to sit in the back with a gas filled puppy. I was proud of us we all got along for the 55+ hours. Thank you guys. You really made the drive home a blast.

I arrived home to a very excited mother, and soon after a big hug from my boy. They really made me happy to be home. Chan drove me across the NC border. The whole time I was jumping up and down so excited to see the mountains.

Corey Tiffany and Chan moved me into my new Brevard home. I have absolutely wonderful friends! Thank you so much. Pictures soon to come

The Last Frolic in Hood River.... for now

2010-08-01T23:11:00.000-07:00

Garnett and Finn Glover arrived and are escorting me home. They are excited about the drive across country but leaving is bittersweet. I feel like I could spend a little more time here just exploring. So here is a few pictures from today that will help show my admiration for Hood River

I got Keith to frolic with me

My escorts home

more wonderful frolicing

My favorite tour guide... thank again for everything

and of course where I spent my internship

It may look chaotic but I promise this is about as organized as you can be

In honor of cool things and incredible lyrics:

2010-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

I was hoping to go to an Avett brothers concert last Tuesday but because it was $40 I just couldn't find myself to pay it. So in honor of all the cool things in Portland that I should have done but was too much of a broke college student one of my favorite Avett Brother's song. I suggest listening----->

A couple more photos

2010-07-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

This is the excitement we got at mile 40

A view we got to see for most of the 6 1/2 hours

Bacon PBR and 50 miles of mountain biking

2010-07-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

What does 50 miles, mandatory PBR and bacon, and single speeds have to do in common? I'll explain

mandatory PBR and bacon station (note the pope in the background)

So this last weekend was my last full weekend in OR before my brother and his friend get here to make the trip back East with me. So of course I spent it tucked away in the wonderful Town of Hood River. Saturday I did a great 2 hour road ride on my new I-9's (see post below). I didn't want to get on the mtn bike because Sunday was going to be a big day.

So Sunday rolled around, and Kieth and I had been signed up for an underground ride/race(if you want to call it that) I'm going to refrain from mentioning much specifics about the trails and who put it on, so to keep from getting anyone in trouble. It was invite only but about 50 riders showed up at 6:30 am to ride 50 miles on the beautiful OR trails.

Kieth and I quickly realized we were the only hardtails, and I was the lone single speeder. More fun for us? We got shuttled up to the start and everyone was excited for the ride. I was really excited because there were a bunch of women there.

The race consisted of 50 miles of single and double track, but to my excitement it was mostly single track. There were 3 aid stations distributed throughout the trail system. For $25 we received some of the best support I have ever gotten in an endurance event.

Sorry Keith I had to put this picture on. We look way to goofy to not. "It looks like a prom picture with 2 people who didn't have anybody else to go with" ~Keith

For about 70% of the ride, we had this amazing view of Mt Hood. The trails ranged from fast and dusty to a bit of rooty and rocky. By the time we got to the first aid station, I realized I was the first female to come through. Trying not to take it too seriously, I wanted to try to be the first female to finish. Keith and I kept a fun steady pace most of the time. We would stop eat and chat at the rest stations, while Keith found a beer to gulp down before we rode off again. I did get a lot of comments about the single speed. Apparently I became "the girl no one knows on the single speed hardtail"

I wish I could say more about the actual trails, but I really don't want to say too much, but I do have to comment on the las aid station. It was placed at mile 40, where we faced a 10 mile descent when we left. In order to pass, you had to eat bacon and drink a PBR. I think that is where we saw the most people. There were about 10 guys sitting there fully enjoying their snack. I did partake in the festivities by having a few sips and a full piece of bacon, something I tasted the whole way down the mountain.

The last 10 miles might have been my favorite descent of the whole ride. I was approached by one of the riders, who told me of a girl from Whistler trying to catch me. I was so afraid that I would be past the last 1.2 miles on the stretch of road, where I knew I'd be spun out. I had stayed ahead too long to get past due to the one big down fall of a ss, so I said bye to the people I was riding with, and I let go of the brakes. This is probably the first time I have ever made time due to descending, but I was motivated. I didn't realize I could go so fast on loose rocks and dust. It was like all my inhibitions were gone. The trail was full of baby heads hat took up the whole trail to just straight up loose dirt, but I didn't care I had to get to the bottom of the hill fast. I was actually in front of some guys during the descent.

Well I was able to finish as the first woman at exactly 6 1/2 hours. Keith and I also came in 15th and 16th out of 50. It wasn't a legitimate race or ride for that matter, but it is still fun to learn those stats. I do have a huge thanks to Keith for fixing my brakes and putting up with my inability to prepare for anything. Also for actually knowing where to go. The trails weren't marked. Also for the mysterious promoters. I seriously have never gotten so much out of $25. One of the best supported event I have ever received.

dirty and stoked we were ready for our free pizza

Industry Nine Ego Road Wheels

2010-07-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

I just received the new and improved Industry Nine Ego Road Wheels. I can't seem to explain how impressed I am with these wheels. I had the old wheels, with the anodized aluminum spokes, and even though I loved the colored spokes the aluminum just didn't provide the strength needed for a road bike like they do for the mtn bike.

Well, I can tell the boys have been working hard, because these new wheels (steel spokes) are the perfect combination of strength, light weight, and they still have that beauty I-9 is known for even without the anodized spokes.

I have now been able to ride a good bit with these new wheels and I keep on being impressed. My first ride I noticed I was going faster downhill than my usual comfort level, but I didn't have an excuse not to. I was confident that nothing on my pedal machine was going to go wrong, so I let go of the brakes and carved into the corners. The stiff steel spokes are very noticeable when you feel yourself getting more and more angular to the road. The hub is still the same famous no resistance hub, and you can defiantly feel it when you stand up to get up that hill or when your coasting down a hill.

I did a few sprints while out on my last ride. I am no super hero sprinter, but I did notice how well the stiff spokes respond immediately to more power. I laughed to myself a bit because I couldn't help but think that these wheels should be considered cheating. I firmly believe that if a bike is not going to perform to it's fullest without a good set of wheels, and this pair is that good set of wheels that can help a rider get that one last push to the finish line or just long ride. I do have to warn you, if you like making excuses about your wheels just not working well and that's why you couldn't catch up to the group, don't get these wheels.

When I think about upgrading a bike the first thing I think about are the wheels. It doesn't matter if you are a hard core racer or just someone who loves to ride bikes, wheels can make or break a ride. It's funny how that works. But if you have wheels that don't provide comfort every bump will be maximized and if your wheels don't respond to your pedal stroke immediately energy and speed will be lost.

I'll report more after a cross ride on these wheels. I can't seem to justify how well these wheels rode, but I hope I helped shed some light on them.

Go to industrynine.net to learn more

A little history if you have never heard about them. They are built and manufactured in Asheville, NC. So not only are you getting the best wheels in the industry, you are supporting a company that keeps it's production in the US. Also to add to that, the boys who work there are some of the most fun and helpful people I've met in the industry and just around in general.

I would like to make a note for people who may have stumbled on this review who don't know my background as a rider/racer. I am by far not the faster rider/ racer, but riding bikes is a large part of my life. I race because I love the challenge, and I ride because what better way to be in the woods? When looking at bikes for myself I put a high priority on getting components and frames that I know will last me a long time. I would rather spend more money up front than continually need to replace something. I firmly believe that the frame and wheels on my bikes will last me far beyond the price paid. I also feel very fortunate and proud to be able to support companies that are local and I can happily say are some of the greatest influences for me.

More excitement to come!

Bend

2010-07-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

After a very hard week and rewarding week of working with special needs children, it was time to do some "self care" In the therapy world, if you do not make sure to pamper yourself between exhausting work there can be a high chance of burning out. For many people it takes years to realize that "self care" is as important as the energy that is put into work. I have been working so hard all summer that without my frequent trips to Hood River (thanks Keith and crew) I would not have been able to maintain my peppiness. Portland is a very large city ( to me at least) and being able to get lost in the woods nearly every weekend has kept my spirits high. I have learned more and more than I am a mountain girl, the city is great but honestly I find myself bored and overwhelmed.

Beginning of the High Desert

So this week was extra exhausting. It is hard to balance yourself when working in such an environment that requires constant awareness and needing to be ready to fix a problem at the split of a second. I have loved working with the children. It is defiantly a field of work that I find most challenging when working in Art Therapy. There is a lot of trying to have the children pay attention and recognize hand eye coordination and pretty much no analytical work. I have defiantly been able to put my education to work when being with these children.

So on to the fun stuff: BEND, OR. After working at the studio til 12 on saturday, I jumped in my car for the couple hour drive. The first 45 minutes involved being stuck in traffic, a pattern in my life living in the city, but all of the sudden the cars were gone and I was surrounded by trees. I suddenly realized I was breathing again, literally I was getting so overwhelmed being in the city my breathing has been very short. Funny how that is.

For the next little while I was able to have trees all around me and see the view of Mt Hood. Then all of a sudden the trees where gone and I found myself in the high desert. No more trees but now I had an amazing view on the Three Sister Mtns. (by the way by this time all thoughts of the city were gone and I was back to feeling relaxed). I arrived in Bend where I immediately went to my friend Lizzy English and her boyfriend Adam's house, who I met at the Hood River Super D. She is a legitimate bad ass kayaker with a knack for leaving anyone in the dust while mountain biking. At the race we realized we had many mutual kayaking friends, thanks Pat :), and I knew I had to ride with her and also in Bend before I left. Good choice on my part.

The first trail we rode was along the river. It was not a super techie trail or steep, but it was beautiful and the perfect ride for the weekend warrior that I have been forced to become. Bennett came with us and loved the river. Lizzy enthusiastically showed me some class 5 rapids, which were sick looking.

Chan eat your heart out

Today we headed up to higher elevation and rode South Fork trail with her friend Adrienne, another amazing mountain bike girl who apparently can jump a ridiculous amount on her two wheel pedal machine. This trail was breathtaking. Beside feeling like I was riding on beach sand. I couldn't believe the amazing views we got to see.

View from trail

I am currently sitting in a local coffee shop in Bend trying to find excuses to to head home. Don't get me wrong Portland is fine, but there is nothing like being surrounded by mountains. Two more weeks before I make the trek home. Funny how it's almost time to go home. Tuesday I am going to talk to the only Art Therapy masters mixed with a doctorate in Psych program in Seattle. After that I should have a better idea if I'll be back in a year.

Adrienne, Lizzy, Me

Thanks again Lizzy for letting me be the bum I am and giving me a place to crash

Update

2010-07-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

So here is a little update:
It has been beautiful weather here, but unfortunately I have been working so much I haven't been able to hide away in the woods like I would really like to right now. Well it's friday! I work tomorrow but I think I'm gonna head to the great... well somewhere where there are trees, streams, birds and no 2:30 traffic.

I have been working at a camp at Marylhurst University (yeah the one I am looking to go to) with autistic and developmentally delayed children. It is very rewarding. I am helping a very creative art therapist and have been learning a lot about different behavior patterns. I am astonished about how much materials are at our disposal. It really gives us room to be creative.

I just finished a biking photo shoot for Ibex Merino Wool. Just so you know wool spandex is actually a good idea. Never would have thought of that. It was so much fun. It was a lot of going back and forth on the same section of trail, but hey I was in the woods, on my bike, and being encouraged to smile. Not too bad. So anyways keep your eyes out, I'm not too clear where it's gonna show up, but now I get to go buy a sleeping bag woooooo.

Portland ST 2

2010-07-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

Race: Portland ST
Cat- Single Speed W
Place- 1rst

So this course was completely different from two weeks ago. It was 10 times more dust aka sand and minimal climbing, which means for a single speed it's twice as difficult to get speed. This time there were 9 ss women and then like 25 cat 2 women. I once again set ,my goals to be infront of all the women, but as the race was happening and I was bouncing between the 1rst and 2nd women because I would lose speed. I started feeling bad, so thinking that I was so far ahead of all the ss women I slowed down and let 1 and 2 battle it out, but to my surprise a woman past me on a ss. I got really excited because now I could actually race. I stood up and started hammering, but if you have never seen a single speeder "hammer" on flat it's a sight to see. I pretty much looked like a little kid who hasn't realized they lost their chain. My legs were spinning out of control, but I was going now where. Luckily I passed her on the moto part where I pumped my way throught the rollers, but now we had 1 lap and she and I were fighting to the finish. Still on single speeds though. So she and I looked ridiculous. We were trying so hard to get somewhere but our spinning legs weren't doing much good. I once again made some distance when we got to the moto part and sprinted/ did an insane spin to the finish.

Canon Beach

2010-07-04T11:03:00.000-07:00

So we headed to Canon Beach yesterday.
By we: Tiffany, Julia Tellman (oh yeah she's here a couple days) and me

It was a magnificent day, but of course we forgot that it was 4th of July weekend so we got to experience a lot of people. Not to worry though we are off to the beautiful Hood River to do some mountain biking WOO
After that we went downtown to Blues Fest, which is supposedly the second largest Blues Fest in the nation. There was a lot of dancing involved along with some awesome people watching.

A little late on this note but Tiffany and I went to Seattle last weekend. We were not aware but we came during the nation's largest PRIDE parade. I was super excited about this because there were many colors to be seen and lots of Gladis Night to be heard.

Short Track on a Moto Course

2010-07-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

And To Make it even better they had a women's Single Speed Catagory

Place: 1rst

One day I'll write about this when I have time

Goof Face! Yay

Thanks Tony for getting me my new helmet

Tiffany is here!

2010-06-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

Words/ explanation soon to come

Hood River with the Dizzle

2010-06-05T23:55:00.000-07:00

Today I rode my bike. I like bikes. Bikes are fun. The more you pedal the faster you can go. I get a lot of boo boos when I ride my bike. My mother says that if I don't stop riding bikes fast I will never be able to wear short dresses again. The End.
Gah I wish I was 5 again

Any Whoo. Yes I did ride my bicycle, but it was a special kind of ride:
Once upon a time, two Pisgah girls, Alexis and Kylie Krauss, met in Portland, OR. They had ridden together in Pisgah for many years, but never out of the dirty dirty south. On this very special day these two girls drove up to Hood River stole a map from a mechanic and frolic on their way up and up to a beautiful trail head. They then rode the most amazing trail. It was beautiful and had a lot of pretty pretty mountains. They both slowly made it up the climbs on their single speeds, but it was ok they could hear the magical creatures of the forest cheering them on. This trail didn't have many technical parts, so the girls rode really fast downhill on their unicorns on wheels. When they finished the ride, they hugged and promised one day to meet again in the magical forest of Pisgah.
The End

And now some pictures of this magical journey

Video of Super D

2010-06-04T22:06:00.001-07:00

It gets cut off so click on it until you get youtube. It's the video of the race I did last weekend. Minute 1:11 you can watch me get my butt kicked by my gearing

Finally a home.

2010-06-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

Check out that 360 maaaaannn

So the title gave it away. I am now sitting in my new home for the next 2 months. No witch craft to be seen and coffee shops just a walk away. Bennett has a friend too, as soon as he gets beaten up a couple of times by her.

So Portland is starting to look up. Instead of getting lost for an hour + I am now only getting loston the one way streets for 30 minutes or so. Yes, it is still raining, but I'm really happy and

excited to settle in. This past week has been interesting. I defiantly have learned a lot from this

city.

Some being:

It doesn't matter if the blood in your legs get cut off from your jeans, the more you suffer the

better you look.

There are rednecks in the west coast, and boy are they rednecks

There are some boys here that are pretty than most girls, but only due to the fact that they know how to pick better jeans and wear more oil in their hair than in my gas tank

fixies suck in the rain

If you walk around and ignore the rain your still going to be soaked

If you talk with a southern accent you may get free pastries

Life's been a journey to say the least since I have gotten here, but with moral support from close ones back home I have smiled all the wa

Blargh

Pictures have been added. They are at the top

5 days, 3,000 miles, 14 states and we're here

2010-06-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

After a long trip, I have been in Portland for about a week. Ok scratch that. I have been in Portland for about 4 days, just enough time to get my brand new Pyranha Burn stolen and to see many a sketch homes to live in. For the rest of the time, I have spent my free days hidden away in the beautiful town of Hood River.

No I have not found a place to live. Kinda a bummer given the fact that I have been here a week, but hotel is a lot better than some of the houses I have been in. One, for example, had witchery figurines in her house. I'll just say that is not my cup of tea. Keep your fingers crossed it will happen one of these days.

Because of the lack of being able to settle in, I have not been able to enjoy Portland as much as I hope I will. It is a big city and I just find myself quite bored, so I head up to Hood River ride/race my bike. It is beautiful up here.

Don't get me wrong, I am having a good time. This first week has defiantly been bumpy, but I know that once I find a place and get settled in, I'll be able to enjoy myself so much more. I have been offered a backyard if I want to pitch a tent all summer in Hood and commute to work, tempting.

Life is good, though. The rain is constant, but it is "supposed" to clear up any day now. I have met some awesome people, mainly in Hood, but that's because I'll pick dirty mtn bikers over hipsters anyday. I am discovering there is a great circle of girls in Portland, so hopefully I'll be able to learn more about that.

I raced an awesome race yesterday. It was a 7 mile Super D. I got 3rd in pro on a single speed hardtail. I showed up to the start line without my number and needing duct tape to keep my shoes on. I'm pretty sure it's the best way to rep for the dirty dirty. The rest of the girls had preridden the course for a couple of days. I didn't even know there were uphills in this race. Anyways, I showed up duct taped my shoes and a make shift number plate and took off. It was very wide open with very little technical. I have learned that technical out here is very different from technical back on the east coast, but still so much fun. I rode most everything, but defiantly could have gone faster if I actually knew what was ahead of me.

There was a great party afterwards, and I got enough money to help pay for new shoes. pictures to come soon

We're in Bozeman Montana... what?

2010-05-20T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Put me back in

the car and I'll go crazy"

So we are leaving Bozeman Montana, many many many miles off course. How did we get here I'm not absolutely sure, but I won't complain it's beautiful. This is by far the most beautiful place we have been so far. The mountains are pretty bare comparable to NC, but they are inviting. They aren't rocky and bare, which is a good change from what we have been seeing.
Yesterday we drove up to Jackson Hole. We were planning on spending our day in Yellow Stone National Park, but dad got into a conversation with someone from Chattanooga. If anyone knows my father, when he gets in conversation, especially about Chattanooga and family things, there is no hope for getting away. I have always admired this about my father. He can connect any family to our family, I have experienced him meet people far from Chattanooga and still find some sort of family connection. Luckily he has not found family connections between me and Chan, Phew.

So a little about Yellow Stone: Breathtaking, smelly buffalo, gassy earth, and more smelly buffalo. We drove about 50 miles in the national park, and it was worth the extra 7+ hours of driving. We got to see beautiful mountains and rivers, and we also got to see stupid tourist get out of the car so they could get close to the wild buffalo. " Hey Buffalo, free fresh food, just make sure to avoid eating the fanny pack!"

We got to enjoy a very gassy part of the earth, Old faithful, which is a big geyser ( a hole in the earth where it gets super gassy and spurts water up). I sat there amongst all the excited tourist as they waited anxiously to watch a hole in the ground to pass gas. I felt like I should have a foam finger and a hand held flag that read, "Come on earth fart already." When it finally happened, everyone jumped out of their stadium style seats and cheered. Funny site, I must say, but hey it was more exciting to watch the people get so excited than to watch the earth let out a gassy explosion.

Pictures soon to come

LYNDSAY BUCKINGHAM - HOLIDAY ROAD

2010-05-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

There is no Elm Trees in the Desert! It's Elk Street!

2010-05-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well my dad misunderstood what street to get off at in Rock Springs, WY (which is pure desert). He heard Elm Street instead of Elk street, just to realize after passing the Elk Street exit that there were no Elm Trees in the desert, so why would there be an Elm street? Then we got stuck in traffic trying to get off the next exit, which in WY traffic is a rarity. "I found out long ago (oh oh oh oh oh oh) It's a long way down the holiday road (oh oh oh oh oh oh) Holiday road"

Well coming into WY there were these beautiful mountains all around us. I was actually dancing with happiness, or having involuntary spasms due to being in the car too long. They look about the same, honestly. Then all of the sudden the mountains disappeared and it became desert. It started to look just like Kansas, but now we were 7,000 ft above sea level.

The clouds were looking very dark, and in my fear of tornadoes, I kept envisioning being swept away to Oz land. I don't want to go!! I'm afraid of the munchkins in Oz Land! ANYTHING BUT THAT!!!!!

What a horrible fate! Poor Dorothy

We made it to Rock Springs, WY, where we stayed with our family friends, and we didn't get swept away, for now. It was so nice to not be in a hotel. We had a home cooked meal and relaxed while catching up with old friends.
Thank you so much Newman family for your hospitality, sorry Bennett chased your horse and tried to eat your small dog. He needs to find friends his own size.

They mentioned us going to Yellow Stone National Park, which is 5 hours extra driving. Normally I would be ecstatic, but after being in a car for hours with the fear of being swept away to Munchkin town, I couldn't imagine 5 extra hours. I came around, of course, and we are headed to Yellow Stone back to the comfort of being surrounded by mountains. The only national disaster that can happen there is a massive volcano eruption, and there are no munchkins at the end of that!

True Wally World Vacation

2010-05-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

Well we finally got through the flat. Boy was it tough. Did you know that Kansas has the largest prarie dog and world's only 6 legged horse? I didn't, but that fact made Kansas just a little bit better. It also has a Wizard of Oz museum, but don't get excited it's 10 miles of the interstate, which trust me when your in the middle of Kansas 10 extra miles of it seems like torture.

Ever since I saw the signs for the prarie dog, I have had the sound track of National Lampoons: Wally World stuck in my head. I really hope we get the chance to see the world's largest ball of string.

My dad reminds me of Chevy Chase, when it comes to traveling, but instead of driving out of the way to see a house completely made out of mud, we drive to see history. We drove off the interstate just to check out Dwight Esienhower's birth place, which is in an incredibly small town in Kansas. Now this is in no way complaining, I have a full appreciation for my dad's history lessons. Garnett and I got to learn far beyond the typical history lesson. Stories that go back to the civil war, for example: where our cousin was shot on his front porch and in the mist of revenge, his son looked for the killer but instead fell in love with a Native American and became a Chickataw Chief. My father could teach History, but the class would have to be called "Things in American History you never thought you'd know"

We got the chance to stop in Fort Collins to see New Belgium Brewery. We didn't go on a tour, but we did have a nice long conversation with the bartender while sampling beer at 10:30 am. My dad being who he is wanted to talk about bussiness, and me, being who I am, wanted to talk about bikes, trails, and the awesome short track race they were holding tonight. His talking ended up sounding like:" Yeah you go around a sweet burm.... yeah the shares in the company are nice... and then you go down an awesome descent" Poor guy had to have two conversations at once for a good hour. He did a great job though and even enthusiastically showed me the short track race track.

Now we're on our way to WY to stay with family friends. In the great fashion of this trip it's raining, but hey I can actually see mountains!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nLiQBV6A7c

Day 2: It's Flat

2010-05-17T05:56:00.000-07:00

Update on our progression: Well we said good bye to the east coast rolling hills and said hello to Flat, and when I say flat I mean FFFLLLAAATTT!!! You want to know the sad thing? We are still two hours away from Kansas, but hey, no worries it's been dumping rain since I left NC and now it's so foggy I can use my imagination and see mountains in the background.

But they're not there. They never were there.

The plan:
Drive 11 hours to get to Boulder, CO. I can't spend two days in this FLAT!

We did get to sight see a little yesterday. First dad decided to drive around Paducah, Kentucky.We got to see a big river go into another big river, and Bennett left his own present for Kentucky.

Then when we got to Columbia, MO, where we stayed, dad and I saw Mizzou Campus, where Bennett also left a present for Mizzou students.

recap: My dog loves leaving smelly presents in awkward places, and there really isn't much to see until we get to CO.

Other than that I am going to leave you with something you can't look away from.

yeah try to look away from this one

this is the result of a google search for "cute"

also a result of FLAT land

Dad in Paducah, KY

Bennett in-between the back seat and the floor board.. It is a hard life

Goodbye Hippies! Hello Hipsters!

2010-05-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

Well we are off (my dad and I) on our great adventure from Asheville NC/ Chattanooga TN to Portland Or. We haven't made it very far and I am already figidity. I also just found that my dad gets internet from his laptop anywhere, thank you nerds of America!

The plan is the try to get to middle of Missouri by tonight, Boulder tomorrow (ha we'll see if we can do 11 hours in the car of just Kansas), Boulder CO, Rock Springs WY, Boise, Portland. While trying to survive the torture of middle America. (aka Illinious- Denver)

As I drove away from the Blue Ridge Mountains and beloved Asheville NC, I came to the realization that I was leaving the town of the original Caucasian Rebels, Hippies!
Goodbye:
Flowing Skirts
Free Love
Drum Circles
Noodle Dancers
Really Slow talking MMMAAAANNN
Communes

I am now driving to the land of the modern day Caucasian Rebels, Hipsters!
Hello:
Way too tight skinny Jeans
Way too tight everything else
Creepy Facial Hair(if you can grow it)
Too cool for everything attitude
Fixed geared bikes
Rebel T-shirts and clothe patches
Micro Breweries

These two groups do have some things in common:
Both groups:
Hate Society
Love to protest, sometimes just to protest
Tend to stay close to other members of this
Hate Walmart and anything corporate
Go to "Shows! Man"
Have unique forms of "dancing/ swaying"

Now this is in no way bashing either groups. I have moved/ in the middle of moving to these cities. I did want to differentiate between these two groups, though. These two groups are some of the most influential Caucasian Rebels in our generation of American History.

So Hippies and Hipsters stand proud in your expensive torn skinny jeans or your flowing skirt that's seen way too many outdoor shows. You have made American society stand in awe while your fixie gang rides down the road or as you dance like a noodle in your love circles, typically in your "dress code" and sometimes to the surprise of others with no clothes at all. Now go have yourself a nice PBR.

Doesn't it suck to live here?

2010-05-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

I made a pact with myself to do a long Pisgah ride before I left for Portland until August. I got that ride today, and dagumett I am going to miss this place so much.

My friend Klint and I decided to meet up for a long ride today. We first thought Heartbreak but we ended up going a much more diverse in terrain route. For anyone who knows Pisgah: The route was Maxwell-> Buckhorn
->SOuth Mills-> Squirrel Gap (my all time favorite)-> Horse Cove->gravel road?-> entrance of forestry center-> 276-> 477->Club Gap-> Avery creek-> DONE ... I'll admit that might be a little off.

For anyone who does not understand what was just said: It was beautiful. Everything is green and so so lush. To top everything off it was the perfect temperature. Good friends, beautiful mountains, and no cougars*, this truly is the life.

* On another great ride that I did with my friend Tony on friday doing Maxwell-> Black (another breathtaking trail) He warned me that there were cougars in Portland, and no not the kind that come up from Miami, which honestly are about as scary. Apparently I need to be aware of this. Oh Great another creepy animal I get to worry about.

This is actually a picture from Pilot Rock, but it shows how awesome it is to be able to spend 5 hours surrounded by this

So not to confuse:

What a cougar looks like if your in Portland

And this is what a cougar looks like if your in Miami

You don't want either one of these chasing you in the woods

First Race of the Season

2010-05-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

I know it is a little late to have my first race of the season, but school is kicking my butt. I decided to do the StumpJump in Spartanburg for my first race. Luckily this is a trail I do on a regular basis because I go to school at Converse College 5 minutes away twice a week.

Some of ya'll know I stripped the gears off my bike for this season. So I am rockin a 32-18 gearing, which is in my opinion the best gearing for Pisgah and flatter lands. Gears are just too expensive for a poor college student, and hey it makes my bike lighter, and we all know a lighter bike means a faster racer. BLAH BLAH BLAH

Anyways the race went really well. It is such a fun course. I was spun out most of the first half of the course but I still managed to pull out a 1rst place in Cat 1 Woman 19-29 and win $100!

More importantly I smiled the whole race. I was able to whistle and greet everyone I came across on the trail. As long as I am smiling I have had a successful race.

Good job to Julia who pulled out a 1rst place in her first pro race.

And for all you ladies out there

21 years old? Oh geez what do I do now?

2010-04-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had to contemplate an age old question, What does a person do when they become legal to drink? For most people, through the art of fake id's, they've been of age since they were 15. I have never been one to drink and still didn't feel inclined to. For anyone who knows me, I am already a bundle of mess, why enhance it?

thanks for dinner mom

So I decided that Chan and I would do a nice dinner with dancing afterwards. We had an amazing dinner and then went to Pisgah Brewery and got to watch/ dance to pretty much a private show from Lubriphonics, which had had a canceled show in Chattanooga so they came back to play, where they had just played that Wednesday to a sold out show. Because of the late notice it was just us and 13 other people. I got to have a private concert the eve of my birthday!

The next day Chan, Bennett, Roscoe, and I went up to Balsam on the parkway for a very relaxing picnic. I don't need to explain it. The pictures do enough.

Roscoe and Bennett

I told you it was relaxing

I do want to thank everyone who made my 21rst very memorable, which I guess is better than saying I don't remember it at all. Mom Garnett and Tiffany for coming to see me 2 weeks early. Chan for making sure I had the best time, and dad for arranging a 52 hour drive to Portland with me in 2 weeks just so you know I got there safe.

one of my favorite places on earth

Update

2010-04-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hey All!
So here is a quick update. School has been tough tough. I have been going to two schools in two different states so that I can get what I need to graduate with an Art Therapy degree. It has worn me out! I'm almost done and just a couple of days ago I learned that I officially got an internship. I say officially because I have been acting like I had already had it confirmed.

The internship is in Portland, OR. I picked this area because my number one graduate school (Marylhurst University ) is in Portland, so my diabolical plan is to have my internship site be familiar with the professors. This helps me seem more familiar and I also will try to get to know the professors this summer. MU HA HA.

Marylhurst

I had gone to Portland over spring break with my bro bro Garnett and dad. My dad was amazing. He took me all over Portland so that I would have the opportunity to meet with both the internship spot and Marylhurst. We also got the opportunity to discover Portland. My social lite brother helped pick out the good eating spots and my dad picked out the good "Decosimo adventures". I on the other hand nervously paced the floor. I was really worried I wouldn't get this internship, but I got it with the help of my dad bragging on me for like 10 minutes of the story of how I wanted to dress up like a Christmas tree in elementary school. Thanks Dad for the embarrassing story that somehow probably was the deciding factor of this achievement.

dad and garn at the beach

more Decosimo adventures

So a little background on the internship. It's called 100th Monkey Studio . It is an Art Therapy based open studio. So I'll be able to interact with many different people. I will be getting twice the number of internship hours I need, and I will get to learn so much about how an open studio works.

As for racing, I am working with Flyer Fryer to help get me in shape for the summer season. I stripped all my gears off one to help get me in shape because of my inability to ride as much as I'd like and because I couldn't afford to keep gears on. The single speed has been great though. I've really been able to kick my butt into shape. I have no choice.

he is also extremely lazy

And one more update. I would like everyone to meet the new member of the clan Bennett. He is named after one of the best Pisgah trails. No one can tell me what he is, so my answer to the unknown question is he is 100% Pisgah Pure Bred. He has taken well to the trails, even though he is extremely clumsy and pretty slow. He'll be getting more into shape when he turns a year old in May.

Mtn Express Article

2010-04-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

Thank you Susan for writing this!

http://www.mountainx.com/outdoors/2010/032410outdoors_extreme_goddesses

Over Joyed

2010-01-29T18:38:00.000-08:00

Well I am stuck inside in this white storm by myself. It's hard in the winter not to feel sorry for yourself and I know I have a lot of time to think of what is wrong and apparently no time to think about what is right. I have been praying every night to find a miracle to help me help Miss Kitty build her house in Jamaica. I don't have income so it is hard to give her the money she deserves.
So here I was by myself feeling sorry for myself, while a beautiful natural event was happening outside. It's funny, though, how while even the most pure beautiful scenery might be outside my door I can still find a way to hide away. I found myself worrying about my future my present and feeling sorry for myself that I couldn't provide one of my greatest mentors an extra couple of rooms to provide her 17 unofficial adopted children. While I was sitting in a large room with heat unable to see the beauty outside, I was blind to all the many things I should be grateful for.

Well I write this because some of my prayers were answered tonight. Because of a couple of angels we are able to take one step closer to giving a woman who does everything for everybody and never receives something that can allow her to sleep well at night. My goal is to help her have a house by this summer, and I will make sure it happens. I find it funny that a woman (my mom) who has all my life lived to give to me and my brother is able to give to a woman very similar to her. Miss Kitty wakes up at 5 o'clock every morning to make sure that whatever food there is is fed to the children who she has taken under her wing, sometimes not eating herself if there is nothing else, and my mother doesn't rest until she knows that her two children are happy and healthy. I wanted to write this to recognize two very important people in my life, women who have shown strength that I hope to follow in one day.

miss kitty in the window of her kitchen

BRRRRR

2010-01-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

Well the new year brought extremely cold weather with freezing wind. It was honestly been to cold to enjoy biking, so Chan Roscoe and I have been hiking. These hikes involved beautiful scenery and a sore butt. One trail was completely covered in ice all 6 miles of it. I lost count of being on falling after a while. I am providing some pictures of what we saw because words can't describe how beautiful the views are. All the views are from Pisgah, just 5 minutes from my house. Enjoy!

snowy trail after two weeks

view of Looking Glass from John's Rock

we sat and watched the sunset at John's Rock, which means an hour hike down a mtn that is covered in ice. Note the large ice going straight down the rock, fast way to the parking lot

view from Looking Glass

View from Looking Glass

another view from Looking Glass

Roscoe in his new backpack

another Looking Glass shot we sat for over an hour watching a snow storm come over the parkway

I was very content

New Year New Sewing Machine

2010-01-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

Woohoo! I had a very domesticated christmas. Along with a George Foreman and new cooking pans, I received a very needed new sewing machine. My old one broke after every stitch and only worked with a straight stitch, meaning I was very limited to what I could do and none of the clothes I made looked very sloppy.
So it's early January, and I have already made a jacket. It took very little time and I was very excited with the different stitches I was able to put into it. I am very happy with the outcome. There is a lot I learned from this first project and I look forward to continuing to grow as a seamstress.
The jacket is made from a red polar tec fleece. I wanted something that was cute that I could put my own spin on. I hand stitched the black thread on the seam and pockets.
My goal is to start selling the idea that people can handpick fabric and mix and match pattern ideas with my help to create something one of a kind. The idea of knowing where your clothes are made and that your own creative ideas can go into something you can wear everyday has always excited me. Not many people sew anymore, but I want to give people the chance to have the same benefits of wearing their own creations. I am working on building a portfolio of my creations to help people see my abilities so that they can get ideas and know that their clothes will be well made. I am able to read patterns well but also have the experience to be able to create something outside of a pattern. Through emails and pictures I will be able to help each person pick the exact fabric and idea that they come up with. Especially having this new sewing machine my seams look professional and the buttons don't have to be hand done. YAY! For my own creations, I am going to start creating outdoor compatible clothing thats flattering and durable. There are many websites with organic, durable and comfortable, and recycled fabric.
Anyways here are some pictures of my first creation. More to come. If anyone is interested in talking to me about designing their own clothing, email me at alexisdecosimo@gmail.com.

the black thread is hand stitched

please ignore the awkward model

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T19:43:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give everyone out there my love on this Christmas Holiday. Hope everyone has a wonderful time with their families, and if you can't be with them enjoy the people around you! God Bless!

Johnson City Cross Race

2009-12-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

My first cross race on my new Lynskey bike was no disappointment. I am still racing Cat 4 because I haven't raced cross enought to Cat up, but I wanted to go race to represent Lynskey,who was sponsoring the race, and to represent the women's team.

I went up to Johnson City early in the morning with a gallons worth of coffee. This is my third year racing this series and I have never had a complaint. They're courses are always fun and challenging, and all my ETSU boys make sure to come out and yell stupid things at me. Actually I think one of them ran up a hill while I was racing screaming in my ear.

Anyways, we lined up on the start line laughing and talking, which is always my favorite way of starting a race, and off we go! The bike handled amazing. The last two years of racing I was never able to keep up because of my mtn bike, and now I was hitting the brakes so that I could talk to the women during this race. I rode the first couple of laps conservativly always seeming to get away from the group during the technical sections, but I did not want to create a huge gap and ride by myself the rest of the race, so I continued to ride conservativly. The last lap I stood up and went. The bike handled magically as I sprinted through the grass and smoothly went into the switchbacks. Winning the race was exciting, but the highlight of the race was more about hanging out with the Lynskey Crew yelling at people as they ran up a hill and seeing the ETSU boys.

A little side note I recieved the funniest swag ever. A $250 certificate for laser hair removal. I'm pretty sure I am going to frame this prize.