Thursday, November 17, 2011

Fall Quarter Update

I haven't blogged in a while.  I guess that's what the quarter system does to you.. I have spent a good time the last two months going to school, riding my bike, and enjoying what little free time I have left with my girlfriend.  I've managed to see Ashley more than I anticipated, at the cost of possibly less studying here on the weekends and "adjusting" to the Davis life.. But, I do not regret that at all.  And to be quite honest, I'm adjusting well so far.  It was the off season for a while, and as for studying goes, I'm catching on to how it works down here.  It's been a good quarter, lots that I've picked up on.  The little things, things like how to organize your time and notes in such a way that when you do decide to go back you're not wasting time due to disorganization.

As for cycling, I could go on for paragraphs about cycling.  Once we got our training plan the beginning of this month, I've been riding daily, more riding than I've done in quite some time.  This whole training plan is going to be a huge help in my season.  I'm in the same "race" shape that I was in most of last season, aside from my peak during the big stage races in March/April.  Just knowing that makes me very excited for what's in store for this season.  As my room mate has pointed out, it doesn't really matter who's plan I'm on, just that I follow it religiously.  And that I've done!
To add to this cycling excitement, I decided to buy a Garmin, due to various recommendations.  I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into.  It's like someone who wanted a car to get around and ended up buying a Ferrari that's got a crazy awesome engine, fancy interior and a sound system and various state of the art electronics inside. Oh, and a sweet set of rims.  My point is, I wanted something to track my training as well as help me with my workouts, preferrably with a heart rate monitor.  Yes, I could have gone with the classic perceived effort and time method, but no I really wanted to get something "good".  Sure enough, the Garmin Edge 500 would be just that, and more!  This thing seriously does EVERYTHING.  I won't go into detail (to spare you the time), but it records more then enough info for my rides.

The next thing that I will talk about is the new time waster.. It's the Facebook for cyclists.  I'll admit, with the recent purchase of the Garmin, I've been spending a bit too much time on Strava.  It is a social site where you can post your rides and track your results to others.  It will rank your times with others, declaring you the King of the Mountain, if you're the fastest on whatever designated climb.  It is ADDICTING!!!

Let's see.. Anything else to mention.  Well, School's going well.  And I want to address something that's tied to a recent Facebook post about the awkward silence in the room before a mid week evening ARE 115A discussion.  I was the only one in the room that was white, among-st Asians that were spread out in the room silently on their phones or listening to music.  It is not that I'm uninterested in being their friends, it's that there is a similarity between the type of students who want to do well and the time they show up before discussion. That awkward ten minutes when no one is talking, but minding your own business.  And yes, it may be eight weeks in, but there isn't a lot of "social" time to be Chatty Cathy before classes and discussions.  People don't show up to discussion to talk to their bff.. I am going to meet friends, whatever race they may be.  It's slightly intimidating to meet new friends, especially when you have absolutely nothing to go off of other than being the same class because you all are on the same path towards whatever goal or major that you've got your eyes set on.  Sure, breaking the ice before or after class, with a "jeez, how about that lecture.  Or, how's the homework going? Or, hey what did professor say about such and such?" Most people leave class the instant it's over, they literally pack up before the teacher's done talking.  When you're in a room full of three hundred people, you don't "meet" a lot of people when you end up sitting in different places every time.  If you meet someone, they're at most an acquaintance.  Nothing special, and if anything, I've found that I have a lot of cycling friends in my classes, and yes I sit next to them and we have something in common!
My point is, it's not the easiest thing to meet people when you are there strictly for an education and there's not a lot of time to make friends.  I don't spend a lot of time on campus, and I'm in two clubs which are two main sources of meeting quality people.  That's the cycling team and my Young Life Club.

I'll see people on campus that I remember from a class or something, but it's definitely not something where they know my name or I know theirs, so a lot of the time when I'm riding around campus it's just a blurr of people, people I will hardly ever get to know.  It's not like Butte college where you can walk across the quad and see people left and right that you went to high school together, you played little league baseball with or you knew from some community event.  It's just straight up different here.  So, I will make friends on my own time, and I am doing quite fine with balancing my "social" time with cycling, studying, and classes.

Now that it's my "weekend", I will go out to the other room and watch the Shark's game with my room mates who are sharks fans.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Death of the 40D

First off, this post is not meant to criticize my photography skills or style.

I'd like to talk about everything that has to do with the death of my shutter..
As of yesterday afternoon, my camera is broken.  The main mirror hinge is broken, which means if you take a picture 4/5 of the shot is black.  The shutter doesn't move up properly on one side since the plastic hinge is broken.  I've done plenty of reading over the past two hours to figure out what the heck happened and what I'm looking at to get this replaced.

This blog (written in Europe) has nifty pictures and all the nitty gritty details of how I could solve this problem.
http://canonrepair.wordpress.com/2011/07/16/canon-eos-40d-broken-main-mirror-repair/

Now, why would this break on me?
Well, I'd have to obviously conclude I took way too many pictures.  That is NOT a bad thing.  I've had my camera for over a year now, and my main point is that over this course of time I've learned how to work my camera through a process of trial and error.  This method of learning requires hands on experience, which therefore implies that I am actively taking photos of whatever is going on.  And I'm not a pro by any means, I'm not to that "wait for the perfect shot" stage in my life.  I take pictures of EVERYTHING.

With that approach, I've taken so many thousands of pictures (literally thousands) and this has taken a toll on my camera's life.  To be quite honest, I worked that camera hard.  Possibly too hard.  But I'm very happy for what it's done in my life, and all the photos and memories it has captured.

This leads me to point out something fairly obvious.  Taking care of things is a pain, but you don't realize the reward of taking good care of such things until you have had a bad experience from a not taking good care of items.
For example.  If I thrashed my Honda, odds are it would break down MORE than what it's done on me over the last year.  But, by taking good care of it I don't have to go through the nightmare of replacing stuff that I don't even want to think of.  Same goes for electronics.  Sure, you drop your phone as you get out of the car, but the less you do that the less chance you're going to have a cracked screen or some other problem. (:

My camera is broken, I'm quite sad about that.  But I don't feel bad, mainly because I put it to good use and I'm not in a rush to fix it.

To conclude all this, I'd like to point out that had I not taken so many photos, my photography skills and success would have suffered.  Had I "slowed down" my approach to photography, I'd still be learning things that only happen when you find out the hard way. (trial and error).  I know a whole lot more about my camera than I did 50,000 shots ago.. And somewhere along the way I've got some sweet shots that make me feel accomplished.

Last picture that my camera took?

Okay, the joke's on me.. I "broke" the camera, literally.  But we do make for a cute couple (:

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

College..

I haven't blogged in a while.  I got really busy with moving in at Davis as well as class itself.

Living on my own has been a new experience for me, one that's taking some time to get used to.  Making my own food, own laundry, all that.  Most of it's fun, as well as the freedom to choose what I want to do and when to do it.  Davis is a really big place, and the University is incredibly large itself.   I'm still getting used to the place, as well as where things are here.  Soon enough I'll know the in's and out's of this place.   I love the fact that I can literally ride my bike everywhere here, nothing is too far, nothing is too "dangerous" to  ride to, no road to "bike unfriendly" to ride on. (though some streets are busier than others).

I have a cruiser, it's pretty cool.  I like getting to chill out and ride slow and not worry about what gear I'm in or what my cadence is for optimal speed and power.. One gear, go slow.  Enjoy the scenery.

Also, I have come to love my U-Lock.  It's my bike's best friend.  That baby is so easy to bust out and I can lock up my bike in no time.  I feel like a pro when it comes to getting to point A to point B and locking up my bike on campus.  Heck, I even rode to the post office.  Everything's a journey here, you have to enjoy the time spent getting somewhere, rather than rushing somewhere.  Plus, no commuting!!! SO COOL!

Classes are challenging, but not over my head challenging.
I would like to point out how there are lecture halls here in Davis, and the "sections" are what I would compare to a Butte Class, but in smaller rooms.. like desks just everywhere and black boards on all the walls. (literally every wall at the one I was at).  The lectures range from 100 to 300 students.  That's pretty intimidating at first, and I certainly get the feeling that I'm a nobody when I'm at lecture.. And I'm going to point something out.. there are a lot of Asians at UC Davis, and a lot in my major (or it seems to be that way).
And everyone has either an iPad or a Macbook Pro. I would never dare bring my clunker of a laptop to lecture.  I am perfectly happy with my notebook and pen that fits perfectly on the arm rests that come out from under the seats.  The rooms I've been in are like indoor movie theaters shaped like an amphitheater.
The screen that the slides are projected on are MASSIVE.  It makes the high school "smartboards" look like a child size hand held white board.

I am trying to make friends, that's a project in the works.. I've made some friends through both CRU and Young Life.  I like the feel of Young Life so far, everyone's been EXTREMELY friendly.  That is nice, it's nice to feel important, that feeling like you're wanted there.. and lately I have NOT felt that at all, from the University feel where you're just a number, not a name, and no one knows you personally.  Sure, you ride bikes? Cool, everyone else does too.  Oh, you can take pictures.  Well so can everyone here.  We've got people who are going to SCHOOL to learn how to take pictures, and you think you're some hot shot who takes sports photos.. ahahahha

We'll see.  The fact that clubs and groups exist make it possible to "shine" within those settings.. Perhaps being the "best" rider at some group ride in the next month, or being the subject of a conversation at some dinner time gathering. Who knows, I just want to meet people..

I am dead tired, and I am going to write in my other journal now.  Going to keep up with that, almost a month straight of consecutive entries.. yea!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Week #5, Music Spotlight

Wow, it's another Friday already!  I haven't blogged in a week, but that may be a good thing.  Haha

Let's see, since it's Friday that means I have music to share!  Since this week I have not spent much time on YouTube, I'll dig up some trance and techno songs from my iTunes library.  Consider these the "best" from the songs I've gathered over the years in my opinion.

Starting with number one, a classic Benny Benassi Song.
#1) Come Fly Away
        Benny Benassi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7YhC99qx6M
Why I like it?  Let's see, the intense beat combined with the lyrics.  It's easier to say that it's just plain old awesome Benny Benassi.. Oh, and we can do without the robotic voices that Benassi occasionally uses (like in Touch Me)  I also like how it changes keys now and then in the song which helps the whole building feeling..


#2) Flashback
        Calvin Harris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEHFnTrx1Jo&ob=av2n
I mentioned how awesome Calvin Harris is in my last blog, and here's most definitely my favorite song from him.  This sits at #3 on my most played songs on my iTunes, I'm glad I haven't posted it yet!
This song is a GREAT song to get into when you're in a great mood!


#3) Deepest Blue
        Benny Benassi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SBf-gru6ok
I do not know who did this song originally, but what does matter is that this song is great!  It's long and very chill.  But if you're in a room next to parents, probably obnoxious because of the constant bass thumping throughout the song.  Give it some time, let it build, it's a great song!


#4) Resurrection
        PPK
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om6msXbGk0Y
Can't say much about this, other than it's lyric-less.. meaning, great beats.
Another songs that "builds", meaning don't turn it off right after the first thirty sec!


#5) Hiding All The Stars
        Chicane
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvTcbxEypUc&ob=av3n
This song is so motivating!  I'd put this into the workout category.  The beat is strong, the lyrics have great meaning, plus the vocals rock!  Give it a shot, get pumped up and have a great Friday!  That's how I see it..


#6) Time of Our Lives
        Paul Van Dyk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbFXPCRg_tM
In this song, I like the fact that the lyrics speak towards the fact that there's a time in life for everything, and also that "this is the time of our lives", a cool concept if you bother thinking about it. (:


#7) Nothing At All
        Rex Mundi Feat Susana
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njo5o4kofUY
Wow this song is awesome!  I kid you not, this song has great beats, awesome voice, and a mix between the slow and fast parts in the song.  Did I mention awesome bass, give this song a listen and don't skim out after the first minute, like all trance songs they BUILD! (2:16 is the best!)

 
#8) You Used to Hold Me
        Calvin Harris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzujNk-yYrE&ob=av2e
What do you know, another Calvin Harris favorite.


#9) I'm Not Alone
        Calvin Harris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8TPXFoXO5A
This song competes with the others, meaning it's also a great song by Calvin Harris.  P.s.  He always has interesting music videos.. haha  I also love how it builds, it's definitely a song that gets me in a great mood.


#10) Pump This Party
        Benny Benassi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlw1Bfe37Ko
Just like the title says, pump this party!  This aught to put you in a great mood if the nine others failed to do so.
Finishing this week's list of songs off with some upbeat techno.  I would suggest cranking it really loud.. But that's just me.

Have a great weekend, be safe and have some fun!
Aside from listening to these sweet beats, I challenge you all to get off the computers, put away the iPods and cell phones and get outside! You may have had a rough week of school, so why not get out and enjoy the fresh air.  See a sunset, gaze at some stars, listen to the birds chirp (if you can find any).  The point is, we live in a GREAT town and no one should have a boring weekend stuck in doors!

If you're still stumped on ideas.. try the dam, try the Feather River, try the neighboring forests up near Forbestown, Feather Falls (you can hike there), or take a scenic drive up HWY 70 into the canyon!

Friday, September 2, 2011

Week #4, Music Spotlight

Hello everyone!  It's finally September, and having been busy with moving this week, I've decided to post songs I already know.  It'll be a wide genre, so if you like the song, go check out the band!
I'll stay away from Trance and Dubstep and Pop for this week.  Give these songs a chance, and I'm already feeling that these will be relaxing/laid back..  Happy Friday to everyone!

Starting with some music from Snatch,
#1)  Angel
          Massive Attack
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbe3CQamF8k&ob=av2e
I've heard this song used twice in different movies/shows, but it's a song I've always liked.  It's got a slow building beat with a somewhat creepy vibe going on.  This is probably a terrible description, but just listen to the song.. the point is, I like the beat from beginning to end, and fortunately it's a six minute song!


#2) Sirius
        The Alan Parsons Project
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCR85u9QngQ
This tune is AMAZING!  Short but sweet, no words, just awesomeness.. This song leads into the next song "Eye In The Sky"


#3) Eye In The Sky
        The Alan Parsons Project
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNiie_zmSr8
This song, among others, is an awesome song by The Alan Parsons Project.  This rock song was probably made before I was born, but it's awesome!  So relaxing!


#3) Roundabout
        Yes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPOTg-7pV64
This song is awesome, hands down.  As a kid I got a CD with some greatest hits from Atlantic Records I believe, and this song from Yes was on there.  Much better than rap :) (Words wise)


#4)  Africa
        Toto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azVqekQBK8g
This song makes me laugh every time, the music video at least.. Plus, it has some history with my Chico Corsa team this year.


#5) Just Can't Get Enough
        Depeche Mode
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6FBfAQ-NDE
Speaking of songs and Chico Corsa, this song seemed to be the theme song at Mt. Hood.  HAH!  This one's definitely made long before I was around, and I'm sure it beats any remix out there.  I do believe this song was used in a Girl Talk song..


#6)  The Sad Cafe
        Eagles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNa8jiApWo0
Another great classic song..  Even has some tenor sax in the end!


#7) Starshine
        Gorillaz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgkoiFwI5eM
Have you heard of this band?  One of my favorites in terms of ultimate chill-out songs..
Super good..


#8) Dream Police
        Cheap Trick
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjMCaw4qzjg
This is a classic, you've probably heard it already.  I like it, and the funny thing is, I saw an ad on T.V for them performing somewhere.  They looked ancient and their voices sounded sooo raspy.
Well, let's stick to this version from a couple decades ago..


#9) Goodbye Stranger
        Supertramp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVcD5NoNoFM
Another classic! Enough said..  I always liked the chorus part..


#10) Happy Together
       Turtles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTvhWVTwRnM
Really old, but it's so classic!  Had to end the day with this one (:  Enjoy!

Have a great three day weekend, celebrating Labor Day!  Be safe, and I'll see you around!
-Anthony







Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Random Tuesday

Just saw some person driving in a car skid to a stop, jump out of their car and start fighting in the street right by Raleys!  Quite a sight, all the while I was on the phone with someone half paying attention.
The funniest part is the fact that the guy who jumped out of the car was the one who got whooped!

So you have a beef with someone, you get out of your car to settle it.. you get whooped, yell in disappointment, get back in your car and storm off right before the police show up.

Hmm..
Other that that, my day's been okay.. slow start, frustrating middle, and a happy ending?  Sure, I hope.  Haha.. I'm searching for mattresses and desks for when I am in Davis.

Makes you realize how much you need such a thing, not to mention how ridiculously expensive everything is in life.

I'm looking forward to school starting just so I can have a rhythm to get into, taking my mind off other stressful things.  Though making it to Davis won't relieve the stress.. I may have stress for applying, getting classes, moving, but once I'm there I only imagine having like a day where I can go "I did it" before I'll have MORE stress to deal with as I've got grades to get, bills to pay, all that..

Welp, one day at a time, and I'm still in Oroville dealing with stuff before I'm off to Davis.

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Under The Weather

For the record, this has to do with health related stuff.. like infections. haha so don't get mad.  My whole point about this is how such a simple thing can ruin an entire week!
It's crazy how health related issues can really throw a speed bump in people's lifes.  Possibly change them drastically, but not in my case..

Well, since for the past few days I've been feeling under the weather, I feel like I'd rather clear my mind of this.

First off, I've felt sick for a week now.  With blowing noses, stuffed nose. etc.  (not fun but not too bad)

Then, lets see.. I shaved last Thursday (only mentioning this because apparently the infections can be caused through small cuts), and then for some odd reason I got an irritation.  That was considered razor burn, folliculitis, take your pick.  But I have come to realize it's worse.. and the problem is that it got more and more swollen, with the pain taking over the surrounding area.  I kid you not, it hurt to move my leg.  Walking hurt, running was out of the question, and cycling, yea that hurt too.. right on the muscle.

The thing is, I have been reading all these things online about symptoms of whatever, and having read one that said: "Fever, nearby tissues not functioning properly, etc" were all these things that I had been feeling.

Yesterday I felt horrible, I felt so bad that after work and lunch I laid down for a couple hours because I felt bad.  It takes a lot to get me laying down voluntarily, but yesterday was pretty bad.  Then this morning I couldn't bear the pressure and pain, so I relieved that fortunately.  Talking to my friend today he said yea, you should get that lanced rather than whatever you are doing.  Many Facebook friends have come to the rescue, as well as my team mate and doctor.  I am beginning to think that this whole infection thing is a bigger deal than I thought.  Oh, and I started taking some antibiotics, maybe that'll do the trick.


Let's see.. I guess what I wanted to say about all this is, it's quite amazing how something like this infection can cripple me.  I am used to being on the go, always able to do everything.. almost wondering why other people wouldn't be able to do the same in a given situation.  But all the sudden, with this going on, it makes walking (such a simple thing) a hard task.  I don't like walking past a mirror, seeing my posture all out of wack as I'm favoring the painful knee.  I was amazed at how my entire quad muscle started hurting, possibly from the infection as well.  I mean really, the legs that I race with are giving out on me, NOT SO FAST!  I will be better in no time, it's just a bummer to miss this weekend's racing.  Even though I wasn't in good shape, I was willing to give it a shot.. But with all this pain going on and leg muscle issues, I do not think so.  I do not need another whooping by the P-1-2 at Vacaville..

TIME TO GET BETTER!!

Friday, August 26, 2011

Week #3, Music Spotlight

T.G.I.F.  For those of you who made it through an entire week of school, congrats.  I've got some new songs I found.  Next week I'll post more trance/dance themed songs, but for now I have some more dubstep for this week.   This kind of music is the type I'd play in my room and let the beat blow me away while I'm on the computer or cleaning out the room.

(Youtube downloader: http://youtubedownloader.com/)

#1) Turn Me On
          Subscape
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqsO-l5NtFE
This song fits into the chill category of dubstep.  No hard drops or low low dubstep sounds that get annoying.  Also, not another high pitched wacked out dubstep song.. So give it a listen, maybe even play it again, and again.


#2) Eyes On Fire (Zeds Dead Remix)
          Blue Foundation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUGzY-ihqWc
Again, I've found another song that's very relaxed.  That's one reason why I can stand listening to this song, because after hearing it again it hasn't given me a headache yet.


#3) Gold Dust (Flux Pavilion Remix)
          DJ Fresh
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEbJ4qLiMu0
Hard hitting beats, give it a look.


#4) I Can't Stop
          Flux Pavilion
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Q9rewnLFYw
They use this song as the intro to the iClub dubstep podcasts, but here's the full song.. It's pretty awesome! (if you're cranking it up of course)


#5) Welcome Reality (Exclusive Album Mix)
        Nero
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMXcvNoNqEI
At first I didn't give the song much thought because it was ten minutes.  But WAIT!  It's awesome!  It combines like 5 of Nero's songs all in one.  I thought it was pretty awesome, there are some really good spots in the song.


#6) This Momentary (Skream Remix)
          Delphic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaTlNeRQF_g
This song has lyrics!  Also a chill song in the beginning, I'm liking these a lot now!  Not so harsh on the ears..


#7) Strange Behavior (ft. Tasha Baxter)
         Feed Me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auFtHzMJ7NI
The girl's voice is what makes this song good in my opinion, compared to a dubstep song without lyrics, etc.
Plus, from what I've noticed, Feed Me has some sweet songs out.
             

#8) Feel So Close (Nero Remix)
          Calvin Harris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7-XLL3nbYU
This song is awesome because it's got Calvin Harris in it!!  That guy makes some pretty sick dance/trance songs (Ready For the Weekend, You Used to Love Me, Flashback)
Give it a listen.. This isn't the typical obnoxious beats dubstep kind of song..


#9) Cinema (Skrillex Remix)
          Benny Benassi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaIZ0mUJzr0&feature=related
Okay, so I put this song up because this version is far more popular than the original.. with that in mind, enjoy some Skrillex beats..
This song gets SICK!! Gotta give it some time to build, but all in all, a great song.



#10) Clap
          Document One
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jsw3TaZbOno
Heard this song on a podcast, thought I'd post it.


Have a great weekend everyone!  Be safe and have fun!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Skating Anyone?

Today I chilled at Andrew's and Christians.. It was funny because all the sudden when I show up there is like four or five new people there that are new to me.  I guess I'm not the "only" one that pays visits (aside from Debbie).  Not a bad thing though, that place is poppin'!

The latest was a kid named Eddy (?) and he was there two times in a row, so I take it he's a regular now.
The funny thing was, he would just chime into my conversations giving me advice about whatever..

What I'm getting at is, I have a photo of him skating.  Christian and he went skating in the street and I decided to bust out my camera.  As much as I'd love to be doing the sport, the next best thing is getting down and dirty taking some sweet shots.  I can't skate, but I sure didn't mind getting down on the ground for some awesome angles.  I'll give them all the credit for busting the moves, but I'll take some credit for capturing the moment (:
My main point is, since I'm not pursuing photography as a career, I will continue to take photos out of my love for photos/capturing the moment.  It's been a GREAT way to spend time with friends as well as hook people up with some nice photos.

Now for some photos that I like! (And yes, these are on Facebook.. so if you've already seen these, bear with me)

This picture I like because there's more to it than the board flying in the air with feet spread out..
Plus, it takes flexibility to grab the board below you. 

Another favorite of mine, I feel like it could qualify for a poster since you can see his face in addition to the angle of the shot.  Preferably not with all the street wire overhead and distracting fences and what not.  Nonetheless a decent shot! Plus his shoes stand out. (good shoe choice)

This shot I thought was interesting due to the detail in the photo.  I do believe that's sweat spinning off the board, Christian was working quite a bit out there in the heat.  I give him props for cooperating with me for the photos.. Plus again, the shoes look good in the black and white contrast. 

Last but not least.  I liked this photo because I caught the face of the board (ideal pic), and also it has a colorful design.  It's not entirely grinded to pieces so that made for a decent picture.  Also, I like the form of the trick, not to mention the angle of the photo.  This was also the first time I've angled my watermark.  I just felt that the watermark flowed a lot better with the diagonal shadows!  (I think you'd agree).

Other than that, I would like to mention again how much I love taking action photos!!!

Here are more pictures if you just couldn't get enough of these. (: 



Week #2, Music Spotlight

My apologies for not posting last Friday night for the second week of the music spotlight.
If you must know, I was incredibly busy with my brother's wedding that took place Saturday, August 13th. (congrats broseph).  That night I was at the rehearsal dinner, etc.

Since I am late, and Friday will soon be here for another week of new music, I'll post only five songs.

These songs are going to be straight from the iDub podcast, so if dubstep is not your thing I recommend you do not click any of the links. ;)

Give these beats a try and tell me what you think.

First up, Avicii

#1) Levels
          Avicii
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVk1HOlkq_o

This song has a driving beat (like most of the songs I pick), definitely a song that you want to crank up..
Named "Avicii's summer 2011 hit song"


#2) Crucify Me (Part 1)
          ShockOne - Feat. Phetsta
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBFHivwAhkM
Not sure what to say about this song.. its got a mix of smooth chillout beats mixed with the typical dubstep in the middle.. And if you like it, you might want to check out part two.


#3) Beautician
          Dillon Francis
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_o2BM_BlD0
This song's pretty chill, not too harsh on the ears. That may be more appealing rather than the harsh dubstep beats.  This song has more flowing rhythms going on.. Though it's got the higher pitch dub-sound in the middle of the song. Anyways, take a look.  Can't hate on it until you've listened to it.


#4) With You Friends (Long Drive)
          Skrillex
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq-geJ9UwG4
Okay, so you might have heard of this song by now, but I still think it's an awesome song..
Srillex rock, give this song a listen to.  Such a chill song..


#5) Intro (MmMiXX Remix)
          The XX
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhnZkNj7kAo&feature=related
This song is pure awesome.  This is the remix from the long time ago commercial for Apolo Ohno from the speed skating Winter Olympics event.  This song is the best, and thank you for reading this entire blog, which is why you get the best song for last!


Enjoy, and see you this Friday for some new beats I find this week.


Do NOT Text and Drive.

When I mentioned a few tips for succeeding at Butte college, I forgot to mention two things.
First off, buy your books off of Amazon or Half.com unless you'd like to pay a high price for new books at the bookstore.

Secondly, this was brought to my attention today through Facebook.

DO NOT TEXT AND DRIVE.  


Let me repeat, do not text and drive.

Studies show that you are 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident when texting and driving.

I have driven the 15-20 minute drive to Butte every morning for two years and NEVER is it safe to be texting and driving in the morning on your way to school.  It's never safe to text, any hour of the day on any road..

It shouldn't take an accident to make this reality, the dangers of texting and driving are serious, don't kid yourself.  I personally am making it a habit to leave my phone in my pocket or away in the glove compartment while I'm driving somewhere.  Sure you'd think that you can use that 15 minute drive before class to say good morning to someone, but it can wait!  It is NOT worth getting in an accident because you got distracted with your phone keyboard..

Take into consideration that some people DO commute to the college, which means there are cyclists on the side of the road.  They are at the risk of getting hit by YOUR car if you get distracted while texting..
Let me take this a step further, people ride bikes on many roads, not just the road to Butte College, which means you could hit someone any time of the day.  Not only cyclists, but pedestrians, joggers, and other cars!
I have a neighbor who rides a motorcycle to school, the same risk applies to him as it does to others..
Don't put people's life's in danger by multitasking while you're driving, specifically texting and driving.

This is a serious matter.  In fact, I do believe it's a law to not use a phone while driving.
Since school has started and you'll be making that routine drive to class in the morning and afternoon, please take a moment to set the phone aside and focus on getting yourself to school in one piece without harming anyone in the process..


If it takes a "real life accident" to get the picture, take this for example.. This morning (yes, the second day of school), there was an accident on the road to school coming from Chico.  According to posts, one of the car ended up nose down in a ditch.. That's the same road that my teammates ride to work every morning.  Let's take this seriously, don't even take a chance, DO NOT TEXT AND DRIVE!!

Please, obey the law and keep yourself and everyone else safe.
Watch this video if you're still not convinced about the dangers of texting and driving.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DebhWD6ljZs&feature=player_embedded

Thank you.
Anthony

Monday, August 22, 2011

Decisions...

Like my grandpa once told me, "Life is nothing more than making decisions."

And once again, here I am faced with a decision.  My neighbor Adam came over today which meant one of two things, he wanted food or we needed to talk. (sure there are more than just those two things..)
But yes, we needed to discuss the Labor Day Weekend plan that involved the Tinman Triathlon.

Due to our late start in (and lack of) training, we have recently decided NOT to participate in the triathlon.
Instead, we shall enjoy the weekend in Shasta like regular folk.  I plan on bringing the bike, possibly riding up Mt. Shasta, something I had always wanted to do!  The fact that I'm not competing has lowered my stress level a great deal, as well as cut out some more free time!

As far as decisions go, I'd like to lay some stuff out.
Why have I not ridden my bike much this summer?
Because I made the decision to fix up my car, the decision to work in order to get money to finance my summer spending.  The decision to spend a great deal of time with my girlfriend, the decision to connect up with friends, as well as drive around town and everywhere in my nice car..
The decision to take a break from getting my butt kicked at every major P/1/2 race that I showed up to.
The decision to focus on the upcoming shift from living in Oroville to living in Davis while attending a prestigious university.

So far, I feel like I've made good decisions.. I'm talking about the big decisions, not the smaller ones like getting drunk or not, but big ones like riding a bike or working, or spending time with family and friends vs. riding bikes..

Enough said, I'm ready to move to Davis, I'm ready to enjoy a good weekend in Shasta.. I'm ready for my future!  We'll see how I feel once I actually start taking classes at Davis (:

Tips For Doing Well At Butte College

So, you've just gone to your first day of college..  You found all your classes, you heard a million lectures on the "syllabus"..  Yup, same stuff every semester.

For those of you who are just starting Butte College, here are my tips.  I went there for two years, got mainly A's and B's, and I can share with you a few things I learned that helped my time there.

1.  Find out your professor.
Learn how they teach, what things matter in that class..  Is the reading absolutely essential?  Do you even need to buy the book?   Is the grade all tests?  Do you need to show up to the class for attendance points?  Etc.

2.  Get a counselor.
I talked to a transfer counselor Ray Rodriguez when I was at Butte..  That is the main reason why I'm going to UC Davis and am not at Butte for a third, fourth, fifth year..  There ARE transfer opportunities from Butte, you CAN go somewhere.  (Despite the unofficial saying, "Butte, start here, go nowhere")

3.  Check out the LRC.
The Learning Resource Center is a GREAT place to study and get help with homework and classes.  There are tables for doing work, as well as study sessions often put on by your class.  (Meet with Joe on Mondays for Calc help at 3:00 at the LRC)
I didn't even step inside the LRC my freshman year, WHAT A MISTAKE

4.  Get a study buddy.
It helps a TON to have someone who you can bounce homework problems off of, as well as get work from when you can't make it to class.  TRUST ME, you don't want to show up to class and tell the professor "hey, I was gone yesterday, what was the homework?" or.. "here's my homework from Monday".. They will often look at you and say "READ THE SYLLABUS.  NO LATE WORK, sorry."
-Get someone's number from the class, MAKE A FRIEND!  It will make your college experience a ton better!

5.  Take the Syllabus for real.
The syllabus is actually a useful tool in college, despite the ones you got in high school and never looked at (aside from Anderson's AP History class)
The syllabus tells you everything you need to know in the class.  It's your key to getting inside your teacher's head.  That's why they quiz you on the syllabus at the beginning!  They want you to KNOW IT! (and so you don't ask them dumb questions, spare them their time by reading the syllabus).

6.  One hour rentals at the library
The Library offers copies of most ALL the text books your classes use.  You can rent them out for FREE for up to an hour.  Just show some form of ID and I do believe give them your student number.  Don't have your text book yet?  Use the library (and it makes you focus for one hour, then you're done!).  Don't want to buy a text book, then there you have it!

7.  Blackboard
Get used to blackboard.  Most classes use blackboard to post online assignments or grades, etc.  OR also posting if they're not going to make it to class! (Important)..
Blackboard: http://mybc.butte.edu/ -> login to MyBC/Blackboard.. etc.
DO NOT FORGET ASSIGNMENTS ON BLACKBOARD!  And if you do, some teachers open all the assignments up in the last week of school to make up, that will be stated in the syllabus..

8. Student I.Ds
You DO NOT have to get one.. unless you ride the bus or something.
Also, they DO charge you for an I.D regardless if you go get one.  So, either make up your mind and get one and make use of getting charged, or go tell the people at the finances building next to the cafeteria to take if off your bill.  Why get charged for something if you never get it!  Just saying... save yourself some money.

9.  Studying
On campus, there are multiple places to study before and after classes (before you decide to make the long drive home to regular life).
A) The LRC.  It's legit!
B) The silent rooms in the third floor of the library, but be sure you're in GROUPS because they strictly enforce that rule. (Which is why you will find many Asian groups of friends constantly in them.. which can be frustrating when you actually NEED one).
C) The silent cubes in all levels of the library.  Convenient and private.
D) The grass!  Very nice if you want to get outside!  But you can't bring the one hr. rentals from the library outside or elsewhere on campus.
E) The cafeteria.  It's dangerous.. trust me.  You always end up buying food AND it's noisy up there.  Lots of different folk up there, some who enjoy card games, goofing off, etc.  Possibly try the new area directly below the cafeteria.
F) Benches around campus.. (:

10.  Check out the ART building from time to time, it's actually a pretty chill place!  Even if you don't have a class there..

And last but not least, go into the gym at Butte.  Inside the entrance right above the left door to the gym is a picture of my grandpa!  Score extra points in my book if you go see him!  Grandpa is quite a legend, that guy's great.  He was there when Butte started up, he was a P.E. Coach and much more.  Wrestling coach and I think even on the board of Athletics, but I could be making up titles at this point.  Go see the picture!  It's been there since I was a kid!

Other than that, I'd say get involved with clubs, use the wifi, get your homework done and have fun out there.  The campus is always getting fixed up, and from the last time I saw it, the solar park looks LEGIT! Just needs a few more trees and it'd be perfect!

Also, parking.... get there early if you want a good spot! (:  And DO NOT park where it says not to after the first couple weeks, they will write tickets for like $15-20 bucks..

Another thing, pack a lunch and you can save literally hundreds of dollars by avoiding cafeteria food!!


-Good luck

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Girls and Shopping

Today I have realized something about shopping..

Clearly it is not something I do, and clearly it is not something I enjoy watching.
I found myself in the mall this afternoon while Ashley was clothes shopping..

I could not help but notice how ruthless girls were when it came to finding the "right" pair of clothes!
It was quite a scary sight as every rack was being violently thumbed through in the SALE section of Forever 21, or the shirts rack at some other store.
Just the ruckus of hangers banging into each other as they slide over one by one until the entire circular rack has been picked over was intimidating, let alone the shouting and noise making of girls and women communicating to each other, shouting prices and sizes in various languages..

My point.. Women are intense shoppers..

And sure, it took me 20 years to find this out, but do realize that in my 20 years, very seldomly have I found myself in the mall.  I've been laughed at when once I asked a friend where the mall was when I was picking them up.  Ha ha, the joke's on me.  Good one!

Enough said, have fun shopping people, and BE CAREFUL!


Summer's Ending, What Did You Do?

For those of you who are still in high school or are on the Semester system, summer is just about to end.

There may be mixed feelings about this, some wanting school to start, others wanting summer to never end.
For me, I still have one more month, so I can feel both excitement for summer and the anticipation for school.

Since we've had a nice two plus moth break, I'd like to see what everyone's done.  Think back and realize "dang, I did a lot this summer", or for others, "dang, I didn't do squat." haha!

For me, I'd say this summer was quite eventful.  Lots of time spent catching up with friends.  Quite a bit of my time was spend fixing up my Honda Civic (which looks great now!), and also working to get the money to pay for everything!  I probably spent way too much this summer, but it was totally worth it.  I did not ride my bike much since the end of June, but the time was well spent off the bike.

For now, I am going to Chico with my girlfriend so she can do some back to school shipping before she's gotta get back at it Monday for another year of school.

See ya!

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Quitting.. How Hard It Is

This is my paraphrase of what my friend has to say about smoking.  We tried to help him quit cigarettes a week ago, however that prospect of living a life not smoking was depressing, and so he hasn't quit, but has tried to cut down a lot.


He says..
Smoking cigarettes is not good.

Cigarettes are the worst because it's weird because they seriously take over your brain so it hijacks eating pathway, the addiction is hijacking your natural chemical reward system, like the same reward system as getting fed.  Your brain turns against itself, so you confuse something non vital for something that's as necessary as food.  So it's weird to be out of control of something as personal as your own urges and sense of self control and will power.  It's demoralizing...

The urge to smoke feels as strong as the urge to eat, however you do not need to smoke as you would need to eat in order to live.  You get confused about what you need and don't need, not mentally but in an 'urge' sense.  This creates guilt because it doesn't change your knowledge that cigarettes are horrible for you.

You just justify it not by anything that makes sense but by wanting it in the moment, and well you promise that you'll stop or do less, but that doesn't happen because you keep on smoking and keep on feeling guilty.  Smoking's manipulating you, controlling your actions to a certain extent.

The thought of not smoking is demoralizing, just because you have such a strong fulfillment of your addiction.
Because you can't justify it rationally but you keep doing it, which is cognitive dissonance.  Nobody likes that.

Doses of LSA helped empower his attempt at quitting, helping him see the reality of quitting.  Psychedelic drugs helped empower his own will to quit, helping this process of quitting.

How hard it is to quit:
It's surprisingly hard to fight the urges, you kind of let your thinking drop down to a less involved, withdrawn level, lowering your psychic guard against mis-perceptions so you can allow yourself to smoke.  You think less critically, allowing yourself to justify smoking on a poor justification that doesn't even make sense.  You almost just find yourself buying cigarettes or smoking, you give up to the urge of smoking, in that moment (when you want one) it's all you feel and all you think about.

"I've quit before".  It really comes down to accepting you're in a battle, every second you could possibly be smoking.  You have to recognize that and you see it as a series of battles, a war made up of battles.  If you don't see it that way, you could give up on "one" battle and find yourself smoking.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Happy Birthday Ashley!

Today, August 16th, is my girlfriend's birthday!  This day may be the birthday of many other people (happy birthday to them as well), but I'd like to give a shout out to Ashley Ryan for her birthday!  Woo hoo!

Let's see, I'm ready to kick this day off with some bomb breakfast at Iron Village, and end the night at the movies with her friends.  Sounds like a plan to me.

Ashley, Happy birthday! Glad to have met you and I'd like to say you're a great person.  I hope you're blessed with many more birthdays and that you have a great year ahead of you filled with fun filled memories.



 Ashley's excited, and so am I.  Alright, let's get out of here.  Off to Iron Village!



Ferretti Photography

I'm trying hard to update my Ferretti Photography Facebook page..

I wanted to update the albums, as well as organize the existing albums better.  So far so good, and I'm pleased to see that I have 483 likes for my page!
My goal is 500+, and I even added a "like" bar on my blog, as you can see to the right.  Pretty fancy, right?
I even had to edit the code in order to get my photo to appear, as well as change color of the background and texts.  I was stoked when it finally worked.

I do not have any pictures for this blog post, however I will provide a link to my Facebook Page, so you can go browse through the photos there yourself. (:
https://www.facebook.com/FerrettiPhotography


Oh, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ashley Ryan!!

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Week #1, Music Spotlight

This is the first time of many that I'll be posting about music.  I'll be picking the music selections based on current interests.  These are songs that I've found or have been recently listening to, and they are in my opinion worth sharing to everyone.   Please take into consideration you may not like the genre or artist.  Most of my music will be either trance or dubstep, preferably trance.

Right now I'll share with you ten songs and also mention why.. (this is the "review" part which will probably take the most thought on my part).

Also, for your convenience, I'll provide YouTube links so you can watch AND download using the Free YouTube Downloader.. (Download it here) http://youtubedownloader.com/

These songs are NOT rated in any order of importance.  Even the 10th song is as good as the first.. so if you're patient, all ten are worth your while.

#1 Find Yourself (Cosmic Gate Remix)
          John O'Callaghan Feat Sarah Howells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJCkjzAtNdY

This song was the reason why I'm going to mention the following songs.  Sarah Howells was featured in the trance song "Find Yourself".. I've always liked this song a lot because of her voice.


#2 In My Veins (Baileys Sunrise Remix)
          Bailey Feat Sarah Howells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euqOjsZ-8XY

Another great song with great vocals.  Not so "trance like", which might be better for that chill feel..




#3 Reverie (Album Mix)
          First State Feat Sarah Howells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SvMHhrkS1g

This is the last Sarah Howells song I'll mention this week, and I really like it with the driving beat and awesome voice again.. Anyways, it's worth a listen to.. Also a chill beat but more powerful than the last song.




#4 World On Fire (Junkie XL Club Mix)
          Sarah McLachlan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjolhqntnJE

This song is also by another person who's voice I enjoy listening to.  This song is like one of those weird chill out songs that you'd have on in the background.. haha.  Great beats though.  This song led me to discover more Sarah McLachlan songs which I'll post below.




#5 Stupid (Hyper Remix)
          Sarah McLachlan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdFIH-PB5IU


Going with that whole "weird" sounding theme, Sarah's got another song with a beat you might like.. Check it out for yourself and remember there's plenty of remixes out there.  You may find one that you like better than the other..  And one more Sarah McLachlan song I'll share next..




#6 Dirty Little Secret (Remix)
          Sarah McLachlan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHV4nncKDMA


This song's a bit more laid back, but with the same theme going on as mentioned before.  Give it a look.. 



#7 Cinema (Cover Art)
         Benny Benassi ft. Gary Go
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-KqDVNowKU

This song I could honestly rate #1,  but I got side tracked with the Sarah's.. haha.  Give this song a look and you might like it a lot.  There's a Skrillex remix, but wait, that guy remixes everything!
The next song is the remix if you're into Dubstep..


#8 Cinema (Skrillex Remix)
          Benny Benassi (Skrillex Remix)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaIZ0mUJzr0

This song is possibly better than the original song, depending on if you like Dubstep and are a Skrillex fan..
Give it a look too and crank the speakers up.  EVERYTHING SOUNDS BETTER LOUDER.. 




#9 Winter Stayed (Armin van Buuren's On the Beach Intro Mix)
          Triple A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7BBlzIMR0Y

This song is right up there with the best, so it isn't "9th" best..
This song was a theme from the Armin Van Buuren's podcasts, which means I've heard it a lot and loved it everytime it came on.  Another trance song you've GOT to turn it up and enjoy!


#10 Between The Rays (Original Mix)
          Ørjan Nilsen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dm6otFZWJ0o&feature=relmfu
This song as well was a Trance favorite and theme from the podcasts.  Give it a look and you might enjoy it a LOT.

That's all for this week and now I've got to get some sleep for my brother's wedding tomorrow!
These tunes could keep me up all night, I hope you enjoy these for now.

More to come next Friday!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Truth Be Told..

Lately I've found myself in some situations where I'd rather go on "acting" like it didn't happen.  Not telling certain people that certain things took place.. All in all, I've learned (in a good way) that being honest it by far the best route.

Lesson learned: Be honest, you'd be surprised how people react to the truth.  That doesn't mean do it because people won't care, it just means don't not tell someone because you think it'd be better you never told them.  (It's going to get spilled out one way or another.  It might surface years later and bite you in the rear.. haha)


Hmm.. so I just got side tracked (thanks to Facebook).

I literally LOL-ed. (not to change the serious mood I was in about being honest), but I just got a friend request from "OrovilleIs ReallyGreat"

Please laugh with me.. ha ha..

I am blown away with how people find it so fun to make a Facebook page!

Yes people, you CAN make a Facebook page with literally ANY name you want.  But with great power comes great responsibility, and I think that kind of power is tooo much for some people.. coming from Oroville.. haha

Anyways... come on peeps, lay off the "Oroville's this, Oroville's that" pages..
and quit friending everyone and then talking trash!! HAHA so amusing how people show their level of intelligence on Facebook.  There's a quote that goes something like this: "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt." -Mark Twain.
And yes, I do realize that I could remove all doubt for all you readers on my blog.





That's all I wanted to mention right now.  I wonder if anyone shares my similar views on all this..(I don't think I'm the only one though.. ) 



By the way, I do not know which of these pages are meant to be positive and uplifting about Oroville and which are just people trying to be trolls on Facebook..  Take a look for yourself (:

And here are the links to the famous Facebook pages!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

August.. A good time for catching up

I think I should just dedicate the entire month of August to rebuilding friendships!

It sounds like a good plan.  Why August?  Well, here's my theory.. We as humans like to procrastinate with EVERYTHING.  Including friendships.. and now that summer's wrapping up, it's the last chance to visit people.. all those people you said "Yes! Let's hangout soon!" to..

As for the procrastination, the days are flying by, and the clock is counting down till the day we all go back to school and also I leave this beautiful town for Davis, CA.

I've successfully smoothed things over with a number of close friends, and I'm pleased to connect up with more in the past few days.  Hopefully soon I'll get the chance to visit with more of my good friends before I get swamped with School..

Hit me up and I'll do my best not to "put" you off..  And if that happens, I apologize!!

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Just a Start

It's the third day of August, and I've successfully ridden my bike three times.. 3 for 3 in August.
Let's keep it up!
So, today's ride was a nice 10+ mile mountain bike ride from the Dam home on the single track.  I felt strong and when I was on the flat stretches I felt like I had the power to grind through them at top speed.

Also, on a positive note, last year's bib shorts are SO luxurious in the space category in the chamois area.. hahaha.. Yea, what a difference!
But, I do LOVE our new jerseys, I wouldn't trade them at all.

Here's a new twist.. as of a couple hours ago.. Adam's been heckling me a lot about my whining.. so, I'm considering doing the WHOLE triathlon, even though it's like the amature distances.. like 1/2 mi. swim, 10 mile ride, 5 mi. run.. I just want to smash the ride, but mayyyyyybee I'll do the swim and endure the run in order to call it a deal.
I'm still tossing it up, but what can I lose?  At least I'd be in shape!  Heck, that's a pretty awesome bi product of training hard for this event.

Other than that, I have no new news to report.  Other than that Ashley's still in Colorado or Wyoming at the moment with the fam.  It'd be nice if she came home soon!

See ya'll later!  And have a great Wednesday evening..

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

The Comeback

It's the second day of August, and also the second day of me back on my bike (seriously) since Racing late June.   I rode a couple times but nothing serious.  But now is the time for me to return to cycling and see where my training will take me.  I'm hoping for some great time spent outdoors, followed by some success on the road against fellow cyclists.

I'm targeting Winters RR and the Vacaville GP.  And the following weekend I'm considering making it a weekend by chilling up in Shasta and doing the Ride part of the Tin Man Triathlon.  Bob's mentioned it, and I'm actually considering it.. Maybe it'd be nice to show up to some half serious/half recreational sporting event and give my cycling a try.. Though my TT skills are not the best.  I can work on them! What a concept..

Yesterday was a discouraging day on the bike.  Hot, nasty.. windy, the works.  Plus, I rode like EVERYWHERE and it only amounted up to a pathetic hour of riding.  I shook that off and chilled with some good friends.  Today I manned up and decided to get in a "long" ride.  Went up to Paradise to catch the tail end of the Awakening.  That was awesome.  The ride up to Paradise was legit as the sun was setting, followed by the sound of beautiful music as I entered the sanctuary.  Following the service, I ate awesome pizza and then made my way home.  So, even that ride was not a legit ride.. A HUGE break in the middle!  Hey, maybe I'm working my way up to a "real" ride..

Here's a shot of my favorite road in town, I rode this route to Butte twice a week for a whole semester.  I'm going to miss these rolling hills.. 



And here's my view of the valley as I ascended Clark Rd. into Paradise


But nonetheless my legs were shot and the funny thing was, despite me being "prepared", my light was not very charged and was already on red.  I used it only when cars were coming/going and it STILL died on me with 10 miles to go.  I did enjoy on the other hand some very nice night skies, including some amazing constellations overhead.  The light colored grass contrasted to the darkness that I was following made my night ride interesting.. Nothing different than any other night ride, but not often do I do night rides.  They are sketchy, and only in the summer is it warm enough (cool enough in the evening) to make it perfect riding temperatures.  I even saw a shooting star!  The whole works, the start, the tail as it glows and burns out.. SO awesome.

My gameplan?  I plan to ride a LOT.  Like.. every day, or every other day.  And these days would be hours or so to make my training worth while.. I'll balance it with life in general.  Yard work, girlfriend, friends, family, car, etc. But focusing on riding.   That's my goal, of course easier said than done.

Also, I plan to blog a lot so that way I can keep track of this month and also give my homies something cool to read if they're interested.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Camping in Fort Bragg

This Wednesday our family and my girlfriend Ashley went camping at Fort Bragg!  It was (and has been) a great trip thus far.  We are leaving in about half an hour for home, which is about a four hour drive.

The trip was relaxing, the weather was refreshing and the sites were very nice!  I got two see two sunsets from the Pudding Creek bridge, as well as ride my bike leisurely with Ashley and the fam around the camgrounds, coastal roads and nearby State Parks.

All in all, a great time spent away from home.  Plus, we got to have FIRES at the campsite!  and S'mores!!
I'll insert pictures when I get home, however right now we've got to go!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Celebrating My 20th Birthday!

The day has finally come!!!!


My 20th Birthday!  I cannot even begin to express how stoked I am for my birthday.  Usually I'm not this pumped about it, but this year I am just extremely happy about everything.  The fact that I'm two decades old, no longer a teen.. who knows, the list goes on! I'm just plain stoked!!

I am so blessed, to have such a great family, such great friends, such great opportunities in my life.
I've been blessed with so many tools and opportunities to grow and flourish.  For real, over the past twenty years I've had the opportunity to travel to so many places thanks to my family.  I've also had the opportunity to participate in nearly every sport, as well as a great deal of other extra curricular activities.  Mom has introduced me to the musical side of life, which has then given me so many priceless qualities and skills.. THANKS MOM!
Thanks dad, hope I make you proud. 


Sports, it's such a huge part of my life.. and I am so thankful to be cycling, in full gear now.. being at a ripe young age of 20, on a legit team and in the P/1/2 Category.

Speaking of my team, Chico Corsa has been the best cycling experience ever.  I had been wanting to race ever since I started riding freshman year.. Then as a junior I began racing through Corsa.  I've been helped by the entire team, which has been the main reason I've made it this far moving up the categories.  Racing the the P/1/2 I've learned so much from two important team mates.  Jeff Galland and Dave Albrecht.  These two guys have taught me a whole lot, not only about cycling but just life in general.  I have been fortunate to race with them both and I can't express enough how thankful I am to have them as my mentors during races and in general. 

As for friends, I'd have to give a shout out to all my school friends, those in college and those who were my peeps back in high school.  A-Hen, Ben, Law Dawg, C-Dog, Daven, Juan, Tyler (heck, the wrestling days..) etc... the homies!
It's been pretty awesome having both Adam and Michael as neighbors, they've been also a great influence and opportunity to get out and enjoy bonding time, whether it's shooting stuff up or going on epic road trips..
As for my homies down at A-Hen's.. that place was legit and I am stoked that I got a chance to see life from that perspective..

So, back to the thoughts..
I am so thankful for my girlfriend Ashley, she has been so nice to me, very supportive, kind, encouraging and light hearted.  It's been awesome to spend a lot of my summer with her, plus we make an awesome duo if you ask  me!  Ashley rocks, enough said. (:


So right now I'm listening to some EPIC new music (found by a link provided by Tom Dowdin) on my new 32 GB 4th Gen. iPod touch!!  And literally every five seconds I hear the Facebook notification sound.. meaning people are showing the love on my wall!  Man, I've got a lot of Facebook friends! (:  Ones that stay up late too! haha ;)

Why am I so stoked about this birthday??
Well it's like that phase in my life where I'm transitioning from one big thing to another big thing.. that one big thing was Butte College.. the other big thing is Davis!
My room is immaculate, the boxes are boxed, bags packed, etc.  I am so pumped that I get to live with 2 awesome cyclists on the team, plus another awesome cyclist fan!! Not only that, but I was blessed with a great housing opportunity, great house/location..
Butte College was awesome, but I'm truly ready for Davis.. now that I'm all old and stuff, at 20, I'm finally moving out of the house.  The food was AMAZING here, mom and dad have been extremely supportive and helpful, and Christina has been great and it's nice to have the family atmosphere.  My brother's been very supportive and challenging all throughout my life.  It's been great to have the tight knit family environment that's allowed me to thrive and mature.  I don't think many families are like mine, it's hard to explain, but I'm just really glad to have it this way.
**PLUS VINCE**

Recently I've received items that I've been looking forward to purchasing for quite some time, so it's awesome that all the sudden everything's fallen into place.  I admit, I feel like spoiled all the sudden! But wait, I worked hard too, so that counts for something!

Lets see.. Now time for my semi annual update..

  • I'm 20 years old
  • Weigh 155 lbs
  • 5'10''
  • Interested in caring for my car, hanging out with friends and girlfriend, riding/racing my bike, taking photos
  • Created "Ferretti Photography", with currently 445 FB "likes" on my page (https://www.facebook.com/FerrettiPhotography), with also 348,405 views on my Flickr site (http://www.flickr.com/photos/futureprocyclist/)
  • Cat 2 Road racer (but desperately needing to train more)
  • Competed in Mt. Hood, finishing "Lantern Rouge", Nevada City and also MERCO.. yea, basically getting demolished at some big time races!  Living the dream!!! 
  • Got the bike up and running (carbon wheels, the works)
  • Fixing the car up = awesome!
  • Still living at home
  • Love music.  Especially Trance music

Let's see... that's about it at the moment!


Thanks for all the birthday wishes!! now for some Birthday pics!! (I opened gifts today since I'm camping tomorrow!)
Thanks BRO for the new laptop battery!!!!!!!! It works!!!
I even gift wrapped my iTouch from Amazon!! 
SO STOKED!


Such a beauty!!

Ahh, big present from Ashley!

The best poster EVER!!

And I got my tint done today, wow what great timing!

All in all, I am having a GREAT birthday!  Thank God for blessing me with such a great life, and thank You for blessing me with 20 years of amazing memories! More to come!