Cliffs and Chips

Great Ireland pics over at intomysixties. I'm hankerin' for fish and chips and a pint.

Earlier this week I heard this on NPR.
And went on to read this. The first time I've actually read anything in The Atlantic. Is that good or bad?

My heart and mind are nearing convergence: Obama. Don't know if it'll stick.
Maybe the heart/hope/yes-the-glass-can-be-half-full spirit is pulling harder just now in the internal tug of war. The ticker has been on the O. bandwagon since his Convention speech.

Okay, on to the usual sport material, here's a little some cycling humor.

Cyclists are the biggest sandbaggers and secret trainers around. They'll say anything to soften up a fellow rider. Such as:

"I'm out of shape"
Translation: I ride 400 miles a week and haven't missed a day since the Ford administration. I replace my 11-tooth cog more often than you wash your shorts. My body fat percentage is lower than your mortgage rate.

"I'm not into competition. I'm just riding to stay in shape"
Translation: I will attack until you collapse in the gutter, babbling and whimpering. I will win the line sprint if I have to force you into oncoming traffic. I will crest this hill first if I have to grab your seat post, and spray energy drink in your eyes.

"I'm on my beater bike"
Translation: I had this baby custom-made in Tuscany using titanium blessed by the Pope. I took it to a wind tunnel and it disappeared. It weighs less than a fart and costs more than a divorce.

"It's not that hilly"
Translation: This climb lasts longer than a presidential campaign. Be careful on the steep sections or you'll fall over -- backward. You have a 39x23 low gear? Here's the name of my knee surgeon.

"You're doing great, honey"
Translation: Yo, lard ass, I'd like to get home before midnight. This is what you get for spending the winter decorating and eating chocolate. I shoulda married that cute Cat 1 racer when I had the chance.

"This is a no-drop ride"
Translation: I'll need an article of your clothing for the search-and-rescue dogs.

"It's not that far"
Translation: Bring your passport.