This week has been a lot easier than I thought. For those who don't know (Like anyone is reading this F'ing thing), the date in the previous post is the date and time of my last cigarette. It's been 7 days now and still counting. I really haven't had any significant withdrawals. A small one hear and there but nothing major. The most difficult part is going to a convenience store. The few that I go to around town know me pretty well. They will either ask me if I'm buying a pack today or they have them waiting for me when I get to the counter...... So, I'll try to stay out of those stores, at least until I know that I've got things under control.

As for riding, I only rode twice this week. A 20 mile ride, at Trinity Park, with Lisa and a 22 mile ride around Saginaw the following day. The latter of the two, was definitely the most adventurous. The ride with Lisa was great but it did not compare to almost getting eaten alive by Cujo!

I was about 15 miles into my ride when, from out of nowhere, came this huge rottweiler. I was traveling down a rather large hill when he took charge, but he stayed on the other side of the highway and just ran parallel with me for a few hundred feet. I continued about another half mile and realized I had no choice but to go back the way I had come. So I decided not to cross over to the other side of the highway until I was past the beasts place of residence. As I started back, I got my speed up to about 25mph and spotted him rolling around on his back playing in the yard. I thought I might just make it past the house without him noticing and then all of the sudden, he rolled over and just took off! He didn't even hesitate when he got to the highway this time. He just dashed across and came within about 4 feet of my back tire. He kept pace with me for about 20 yards and then backed off. I lucked out. If he would have kept going for another 20 yards he would had me for lunch, as I was quickly approaching the large hill the I had sped down earlier. when I got to the top of the hill I stopped and rested for a bit.

The dog scared the shit out me. It was definitely the most strenuous mile I have ever ridden on a bike. Needless to say, I wont be traveling down that particular road again. Though, I will be contacting animal control. I hate to think of what might happen if a kid decides to ride down that same stretch of road. It just has not been a good couple weeks for riding. its unfortunate too, the weather has been just amazing.

One other note before I sign off. Lisa and I will be going to Austin for the ACL Festival the weekend and I cant wait to see Ben, Jack and Todd. I'm sure I'll be worrying my ass though waiting to see where Ivan decides go. As of now it could hit anywhere between Pensacola and New Orleans. My Parents have already decided there going to stay in Pensacola and I'm still waiting to hear what Steve and Wendy are going to do if it hits New Orleans.

We'll just have too wait and see I guess......

-blanca