Wednesday, January 25, 2012

TSA - has this happened to you?

As I go through security at the airport, I have to remind myself that the people that work with the TSA are people too. They don't make it easy to remember. A customer service class would be helpful along with supervisors who get "it." The employees at TSA seem to think that they are doing us a favor. I won't deny that they have a purpose and I am grateful for the effort.

But, couldn't they be at least courteous and considerate?

I don't mind undressing before going through the metal detectors. I don't mind pulling out my gels and my laptop. I don't mind taking everything, and I mean everything, out of my pockets. That is part of the drill and I am okay with it. My issue is with the TSA agents screaming this information multiple times before evening getting up to the ID check. This rant is not associated with any softening phrases like, "I'd like to remind you" or "In case this is your first time flying or you haven't flown in a while" or "Please be advised." The tone needs help as well.

Having said that, my biggest irritant is trying to redress and the TSA agent takes my stuff and pushes it down the line. There is nothing that annoys me more than trying to put my belt back on or my shoes on or trying to put my laptop in my bag and as I go to grab for one or the other, the whole line gets moved several feet further down. Aaarrrrgggghhhhhh! It happened on my last trip and has been on my mind. TSA - please stop that! Let me redress. I am hurrying. I promise. I understand and am mindful of all the people that need to get through security but please give me a few quiet moments and I will get it all together - pinky promise!

By the way, to the TSA agent that picked up the bin I tossed on the floor in disgust, I am sorry. I will try harder next time to be considerate - even as you shove my articles down the line.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Goals for 2012

Goals for 2012:

Bike - Hit 5,000 miles; ride 8 centuries (not necessarily an organized ride)

Run - Hit 400 miles; complete a half marathon

That should do it for 2012. With all the kids playing sports and being involved in various volunteer organizations, this will be challenging enough.

Where are you at? How will you "win from within"?

Be courageous.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Wow! It's been a long time...

I remembered I had a blog. Now I just need to update it more frequently. I just need to ask myself - just how much social media do I need? Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and a blog. Interesting.

The best thing I have done for my cycling recently was to get a Real Axiom CT trainer. It is a computer controlled resistance trainer that you can download rides to or map ride on Google Earth. It will then simulate the resistance based upon the data - making it easier or harder depending upon the grade of the road. It has made my indoor experience much better. In fact, I have only ridden outside twice in the two months. I get just as good of workout and I don't have to freeze. Plus, the laundry is diminished due to not having to wear as much clothing to keep warm.

2012 will be a good year in the saddle. One ride is already on the calendar - 4.28.12 in Ontario, California for the L'etape du California - with more rides to come. Heading towards 5K miles again.