Trek Domane 5.9 Di2

   After spending the last four years on a 2011 Trek Madone 5.2 Ultegra I test rode two new bikes. The first was a Trek Domane 5.2 Ultegra. It was the 2015 Domane frame that I wanted to experience. Hearing many of the raves of a more compliant ride, thanks to the ISOspeed coupler and redesigned front fork, I can confirm that both components of the frame work. The ISOspeed coupler is extremely effective. Along with the longer wheelbase and the new fork, this bike is a joy to take on extended rides. The best part is that it feels no less responsive or stiff when out of the saddle than the Madone, at least to me.
   Next up was a Specialized Robiax Expert with Shimano Ultegra Di2. It was the Di2 that I wanted to test. So much has been written about how well this second (or is it third) generation of Di2 performs. After a short thirty minute test ride I was amazed at how well this stuff works. With just default settings (customizable with software) shifts were fast and crisp. No missed shifts, NONE! It does take a little getting used to as it's easy to forget you're just pressing buttons, not throwing levers.
   At the end of the day I knew it would be a 2015 Domane 5.9 but the big decision would be Dura-Ace or Ultegra Di2, both costing the same dollars. The guys at the bike shop talked me into the Di2 stuff due to shifting performance and no cable replacing. I took their advice and after 400 miles I am so glad I did!

Spring Has Arrived!

Spring has arrived in Texas. The Knockout Rose bushes have exploded!

Lottery Winner Getting Bigger by the Day!

   If you have been following the progress of our puppy Brodie, you can see from these new photos how big she is getting. Now in her fourth month of life she really developing into a fine young dog. It's been quite a journey from a three week old abandoned pup to her present state for both she and myself. Nurturing a pup that young was extremely time consuming and tedious. To see her today is both rewarding and comforting in that she was raised to a healthy young dog and that she has a good home.

Brodie and Brandy

Just Hours From Death to Lottery Winner!

   Well, that might seem like a stretch, unless your name is Brodie. Just ten weeks ago Brodie was in a bag on the side of a country road, thrown out like trash by the likes of someone who really IS trash. Less than four weeks old at the time, she was certain to never see the light of the next day if not for my wife and a friend who were out for some exercise on that road. Agast that someone could dump an animal like a beer can out the window, she brought the infant pup home. She is doing quite well, thanks to my wife and I, enjoying life, as she should.

Brodie and Brandy at play

Amateur Radio Equipment

A photo of some of the latest in amateur radio gear.....

Rescued Puppy Update...

Last week we chronicled how my wife found a four week old puppy, in a bag, on the side of a country road. After only four days of care and feeding her appearance has changed to that of what one would hope a young puppy should be.

Meet Brodie

People That Dump Dogs...

   We have all heard the stories, but it's not until you witness it with your own eyes do you begin to feel the heartlessness of some people.
   Yesterday, while two women were out for a walk on a country road, they happened upon a red pillow case on the side of the road. The pillow case began to move! Much to the shock of the women, a small animal crawled out from inside. What first appeared to be a cat soon took the form of a tiny puppy! They picked up the puppy and brought her home where she is being properly cared for. A vet check revealed the puppy is four weeks old and is just now beginning to see and walk.
   People that dump dogs, for whatever reason, deserve to be euthanized, not their dogs!
   Say hello to Brodie!