greatbear: (mini me)
[personal profile] greatbear
Me.

Yep, it's that time of the year again. Time to head down south to NC and the Tail of the Dragon, aka US129, which runs along the Smokey Mountains from NC to TN. 318 delicious switchback and sweeping turns in 11.8 miles of asphalt nirvana. This time Jeff and Bear are braving the trip. This year there is at least 650 (omg) people attending, most of whom have MINIs. Yeah, it's probably going to be gridlock at times, but I plan on getting my gonzo runs in. Today I amped up the brakes on the MINI, with new Stoptech crossdrilled rotors, Axxis ceramic pads, stainless brake lines, Motul 600 brake fluid... in other words, good stuff that makes for fade-free braking. A couple weeks prior I tuned the suspension, switched out the rear swaybar for a stiffer, adjustable one, added camber links and installed oil and water temp gauges (with navigation I lose the temp gauge, which in a MINI is not much better than the idjit light I have now). This, coupled with some show-level detailing and cleaning (you could eat off of the engine, but that would mess it up) and I am set. I just hope Jeff or the dog doesnt hurl all over the inside.

I am hoping this is a problem and stress-free little excursion, since I have been in need of such for quite a while. I am still not blogging to speak of, been trying to catch up work-wise and doing the springtime yard and garden duties. The latter is not always a hassle, there is something Zen-like about mowing the lawn and having some think time (or veg-out time) while running the tractor.

Unfortunately, there is a potential dark cloud following me down the road these next few days, as it has for a couple weeks. Mom has been having her twice annual checkup regarding her cancer treatments, and there has arisen some as-yet unknown concern. Additional tests and PETscans were done today; the last time she was pushed through this battery of tests was when they discovered the cancer in the first place. Both of us have a feeling that some bad news awaits in a couple days. I'm hoping for the best, but sadly expecting the worst. Keep Mom in your thoughts, I think she's going to need them.

Tomorrow we are heading out stupid early to get past the DC/VA traffic snarls and to hopefully arrive at a decent hour at Fontana. Wont be online for a few days, nor have cell phone coverage. Sometimes, it's nice to disconnect from the world at large. I cant wait to catch up with my friends that I have made in the last few years. Plus I want to burn up those new brakes.

Date: 2006-05-04 04:29 am (UTC)
From: [identity profile] in-fin-i-ty.livejournal.com
*sends hugs to you and Mom and Jeff*

Date: 2006-05-04 04:33 am (UTC)
From: [identity profile] tofercub.livejournal.com
your making arrows out of pointed words ;o)

Date: 2006-05-04 04:41 am (UTC)
From: [identity profile] theoctothorpe.livejournal.com
What have you done with the suspension? Would you go full coil-overs? I went with Koni yellows and Eibach Pro Kit springs for the Acccord. While they're not perch adjustable, you can adjust the dampening rate. Normally, I keep them at full-stiff all the time (although my passengers don't like it)
I can't wait until I get the TSX... all new toys to enhance!!

Date: 2006-05-04 04:47 am (UTC)
From: [identity profile] liftinmoose.livejournal.com
*big hugs...

and drive thrugh the city so I can lift you over my head.

Date: 2006-05-04 08:30 am (UTC)
From: [identity profile] bygbrat.livejournal.com
hoping for the best.
have a great trip! take pictures!

Date: 2006-05-04 12:41 pm (UTC)
From: [identity profile] mhkrabat.livejournal.com
Hoping all goes well for your mom.

Is Motul 600 brake fluid more effective than Motel 6 brake fluid?

Have a blast on the TOD! (I'm envious)

Health issues

Date: 2006-05-04 12:53 pm (UTC)
From: [identity profile] disccub.livejournal.com
I will keep your Mom in my prayers. Have a great trip!

Date: 2006-05-04 12:56 pm (UTC)
From: [identity profile] ptownnyc.livejournal.com
*Stands at side of road with thumb out, hoping ...*


Wishing your Mom the best.

Date: 2006-05-04 02:07 pm (UTC)
From: [identity profile] devcubber.livejournal.com
*sending Mom good energy, and you too!*

Date: 2006-05-04 06:11 pm (UTC)

Date: 2006-05-04 07:34 pm (UTC)
From: [identity profile] igzorp.livejournal.com
Hope everyone enjoys the trip ! Sounds like a fun weekend.
Also hope the best for your Mom.

Date: 2006-05-04 09:24 pm (UTC)
From: (Anonymous)
Thinking warm thoughts of your mom - fingers are crossed.

Have a great time on your trip - hopefully you'll get good news when you get back.

HUG

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Phil

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