Grateful Dead

It is a great advertisement for the French landscape (after they leave the 'Hell of the North'). We had a lot of rain in June which has kept the South very green and beautiful this year. Today's stage up to Mende in the Massif Central should be spectacular. The 2011 route is not announced yet. A lot of people ride the route each year a few days in advance of the real tour: so get training Ted and TL! It's a fascinating tour this year. Armstrong has been plagued with bad luck and you might forgive him for dropping out...but he is hanging in there to help his team. Cavendish is so talented but everyone hates him, even more so after his aussie sidekick's headbutting antics yesterday. Cav needs a new lead out man now and the other teams are sure to harass him mercilessly now. The real struggle will be Schleck vs Contador in the Pyrenees; there are going to be some real battles up there on the slopes.

take me with and I will translate for you! :-D ********************************** By trying we can easily learn to endure adversity -- another man's I mean. Mark Twain

Mark was disqualified from the TdF, after the head butt. Let's see what happens in the Pyrenees

The one that includes the Gulfstream jet to and from the airports of my choice and a castle to stay in complete with serfs and wenches? (GTed: If you know French the French are a lot nicer to you, though they'll still figure a way out to take your money if you don't. I like Rosetta Stone to learn a language w/o strain)

..has been incredible. Our TV channel, Versus, has been airing the race with ground and helicopter videos in high-definition: I may have to plan a trip over next year! I do not speak or understand French, so that will be something I'll pursue. Years ago, in and west of Boulder CO, I was a motorcycle escort for the Red Zinger classic....

not me..I've got the VIP package with the helicopter, the Michelin 3 star lunch, the champagne and the supermodel. Go Cavendish. Renshaw was a bit naughty today I admit.

A very high energy sprint to finish the 12th Stage from Sisteron to Bourg -les Valence today. Some head-butts from Renshaw to Farrar ensuring Cavendish the stage win.These riders are really something to watch! I'm pulling for Levi Leipheimer to catch-up with Contador and the yellow jersey on Andy Schleck. I keep looking for CB, cheering the riders on along the side of the road.

great to see you however briefly, and glad you're on the mend.

been the errant uncle, I know.. skipping off, but can't get online or stay online like in those old daze. *** been on the mend, with the help of a new 'friend' shaved the shaggy old beard, cutting back on the drink with plenty of time to think life is still weird but better. the purpose of this letter what shall I say? to those who know and care I love you all, that is what I want to share one at a time, living every day love&peace.

they also did a nice version of "Been All Around This World" check em' out!