Emily Martini

So,as I sit here, patiently waiting for football to start, enjoying my Starbucks thanksgiving blend, and trying to ignore Nash's pleads for a walk-my mind wanders to the meaning of the day and what it means to me. Of course I am most thankful for my family-who is all back in Iowa (I am the second oldest of 4, and ALL my siblings live back home in my small village). I am also thankful for my surrogate family-the kind folks of OBRA. Remember, I am that big cycling fan, that doesn't ride a bike-and even though I left Portland this summer for Eugene, I still have wonderful friends such as Sal Collura who call and ask me to come and stand outside for 6 hours and register riders for bike races-in the cold. Now don't think I am complaining here, I love seeing all the racers, keeping track of their results and becoming their fans, and I get a warm feeling in my heart when they stop by registration after their race and tell me thanks for coming out.

So-I am inviting you all to come and make my heart warm this weekend, and race Psycho Cross number 4 this Sunday at camp Harlow. They said we will not have rain for a long time, and I am sure most of us will need to pedal off a few pounds after a few days of turkey and leftovers. Bring the family-have the kiddies race the kiddie race and then ring their cowbells for you as you fly on by. A big call out to the folks in Salem-where you at? Last weekend I had a herd of cyclists come over the pass from Bend to race....

Finally-I will be doing my food drive for Lane County. Help make the holidays happy for those less fortunate and donate some much needed, non-perishable food items to Food for Lane County. Or, consider donating $1-one dollar buys 6 pounds of food. The registration fee for psycho cross is $20 (I believe Cross Crusade was $22...)

Alright, Nash's crys for a walk are getting louder, so best close this and start getting that caloric intake on the negative side for the day....

Happy Thanksgiving!