tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-234253842024-03-18T19:08:38.703-07:00Let's Make a ChangeI'm dedicating the future of this blog to help support fundraising for VEDS researchSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-47031612149114574832024-03-18T19:08:00.000-07:002024-03-18T19:08:02.875-07:00$22 Million<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0B5U1ZP2iHwUCtJHw22L4IQ1EHjWSvk-i9GIg_yllpKv1P2uNSYoH4Z71YtNE-Qt4cQol_1safU_t7LpIN02XXIIHGgJR8CP4GJVgJTbIyUvfPz1m8tZEClyc6NUbbH2HMQWgBd6sYrfsXDaqzvq3AnBjVCGj_7fXx4FMa0gfTcu-3XlfCKf-/s2048/image000000.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0B5U1ZP2iHwUCtJHw22L4IQ1EHjWSvk-i9GIg_yllpKv1P2uNSYoH4Z71YtNE-Qt4cQol_1safU_t7LpIN02XXIIHGgJR8CP4GJVgJTbIyUvfPz1m8tZEClyc6NUbbH2HMQWgBd6sYrfsXDaqzvq3AnBjVCGj_7fXx4FMa0gfTcu-3XlfCKf-/s320/image000000.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />For those who thought this is a about politics, it's not. <p></p><p>$22 million is the amount it would take to bring a life-saving drug to market. Unfortunately, the company that was developing the drug, has decided that it's not profitable enough to continue development. </p><p>Here's the backstory. On Wednesday of last week, the Lad and I met with the head of the Cardiovascular Connective Tissue Group at Stanford Medical Center, Dr. David Liang. He, along with Mitchel Pariani and Jehan Shaukat spent several hours with Rob and me giving us the lowdown about many Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) history and prognosis. They were amazing in their compassion and their knowledge. It was encouraging.</p><p>My objective for being there was to learn as much as I can and to find out where I can help. In particular, what's being done with research and how can I help. They told me, "Well if you know someone who is famous who has vEDS, that would help."</p><p>Aytu, a bio-medical company, was developing a drug called enzastaurin, that was showing substantial beneficial effects for patients with vEDS. However, the company was developing the drug or another disease and it wasn't showing the benefits for that unrelated disease. So, they canceled the program. If they have a benefactor who can spot them $22M, they would restart it or sell it to another firm to pursue. That's why I'm trying to raise awareness and funding. </p><p>If you'd like to help, or if you'd like to join my team in helping, then please go to <a href="https://give.marfan.org/teamsaved " target="_blank">https://give.marfan.org/teamsaved </a> </p><p>Here's the kicker. As I meet more people who've been affected by vEDS, and I read stories, there's a common theme that is delivered in the prognoses. People have been told - "We don't know about that, here's a google link that might explain more." or "None of us know how long we've got - live, laugh, love." I know the people who delivered those messages meant well, but at the same time, it's as if they're saying "It sucks to be you."</p><p>I'm thankful we met Dr. Liang and team. They're not in the sucks-to-be-you camp. Help me help them. Share this message with everyone you know, Maybe we'll find a benefactor who'd like to help improve lives instead of create rockets. </p><p>Thank you for reading and if you need infomation, hit me up.</p><p>Steve</p>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-20026503813344499912024-03-10T16:54:00.000-07:002024-03-10T16:54:54.987-07:00"There, but for the grace of God, go I."<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XqLQhE0coE2plrGsCRIzEXcIol3yjjzSnYEAK8zH-uZS0oFhr-hKJFd3R_J9aVsS91ebHUgUNzRj3VsUK4WY8XHwIKi2tocbDEp9NpM7PPVgOmhxgyR-OVkFxSB6SRY1jEwohqCWw5dP7g0qEnuRrgGWif6_dl_fx18VMpdKM7B4E3y2Qshi/s1351/Rob%20and%20Tori.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1351" data-original-width="991" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2XqLQhE0coE2plrGsCRIzEXcIol3yjjzSnYEAK8zH-uZS0oFhr-hKJFd3R_J9aVsS91ebHUgUNzRj3VsUK4WY8XHwIKi2tocbDEp9NpM7PPVgOmhxgyR-OVkFxSB6SRY1jEwohqCWw5dP7g0qEnuRrgGWif6_dl_fx18VMpdKM7B4E3y2Qshi/s320/Rob%20and%20Tori.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><p></p><p><br />Hey all, </p><p>It's been a few weeks since my last update. I'm even more serious about raising awareness and raising funds to support Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (VEDS) research and patient care. Next Wednesday, the Lad and I will be going to Stanford to meet the folks in the Cardiovascular Connective Tissue Disorders program. Rob will be introduced to their program and staff, I'm going to find out how I can help. Just a reminder, if you'd like to help - the link is here - <a href="https://give.marfan.org/teamsaved" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Team Strength Against VEDs</span></a></p><p>Here's the problem with rare diseases and disorder, there's no money in it so there's not the research engines that exist to put more energy into finding treatments or even cures. Personally, I think the discoveries and advances in CRISPR may offer hope. BTW, one of the leading researchers in this area is Nobel Laureate Jennifer Doudna who is on the faculty at UC Berkeley. Go Bears! My point is that there's not enough awareness and there's not enough research being done. I'm one person, but what the hell, I have to do something. So yes, I'm asking you to donate to this charity. I'll meet with whomever I need to get some attention to this disorder. Maybe it takes getting attention from Ms. Doudna, I'll do that. </p><p>Let me leave you today with this story. I was about 7 years old and I was riding in the car. My mom was driving. We we're stopped at a cross-walk and a man was walking across. He was disabled and couldn't walk very well or very quickly. I watched and I said to my mother, something really stupid, "He needs to move faster." My mom, corrected me, sternly I might add, and said something I remembered all my life, "There, but for the grace of God, go I."</p><p>Some people are dealt a shitty hand in life. It's just how life is. Those of us who are fortunate to have not been dealt a bad hand, need to recognize that and be thankful. For me, that means help where I can. If you can help too, that would be greatly appreciated.</p><p>If you'd like to join my team on May 4th, you're more than welcome. If you'd like to donate, I would greatly appreciate it and it will help. It's such a small organization, that every contribution is that much more valuable.</p><p>You can join my team or donate to the cause here -</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://give.marfan.org/teamsaved" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large;"><b>Strength Against VEDS - Team SAVED</b></span></a></p>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-225621071653005762024-02-18T14:55:00.000-08:002024-02-18T14:55:57.210-08:00Some Background about VEDS<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvGCU3R2grTOHYsIdsOroaUr9rSJUkBq8GCelQmEoo3MmMgrCsWpr0jRUoB532PAO1qYKFORZihObRFG6mI6GHAyERchvnKJVGKdUZ4OAsNuRT6b4_xOIEM6WwtUs2Hc0dEiezskk6wGwC9gXXVrZEsZUEvN-JwyYpN_tvBMPOItaPIdujdvz-/s823/FundraisingPageHeader.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="823" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvGCU3R2grTOHYsIdsOroaUr9rSJUkBq8GCelQmEoo3MmMgrCsWpr0jRUoB532PAO1qYKFORZihObRFG6mI6GHAyERchvnKJVGKdUZ4OAsNuRT6b4_xOIEM6WwtUs2Hc0dEiezskk6wGwC9gXXVrZEsZUEvN-JwyYpN_tvBMPOItaPIdujdvz-/s320/FundraisingPageHeader.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Last week I wrote about my son being diagnosed with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. I am raising money for the organization that is driving research for this disorder. <a href="http://www.steveasche.com/2024/02/strength-against-veds-my-new-cause.html"> Please read about it here.</a><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Thank you to those who have donated and supported my cause.</b></span></p><p>Today I want to provide some clarification and education. I'm hoping you'll get a sense for how serious this disorder is and, in turn, why I'm so passionate about trying to do something about it. The bottom line is that VEDS is not common enough to have it's own fundraising machine. So we're working with the Marfan Foundation to get some visibility and support for VEDS.</p><p><b>Some Background</b></p><p>There are a number of genetic disorders that are classified as connective tissue disorders. Marfan Syndrome is probably the most well known. There are other connective tissue disorders, Loeys Dietz Syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Within Ehlers-Danlos, there are 13 subtypes. The common trait of all these disorders is that they are caused by genetic mutations and they're related to connective tissues. You can read about Ehlers-Danlos subtypes at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ehlers%E2%80%93Danlos_syndromes" target="_blank">this wikipedia page</a>. </p><p>Vascular Ehlers-Danlos is one of the most serious subtypes. <b>I'm raising money, with my son's consent, to help organizations fund research and treatment for all families that are dealing with this.</b> <b>If you would like to support me, <a href="https://give.marfan.org/fundraiser/5260675" target="_blank">please go here</a></b></p><p>Here's a lot more about the differences between Marfan Syndrome and vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. The TL;DR version of what's written below, Marfan Syndrome and VEDS - are similar in that they're connective tissue related. VEDS is a much nastier disorder. <a href="https://give.marfan.org/fundraiser/5260675" target="_blank">Help us help the researchers.</a> </p><p><b>Genetic Basis:</b></p><p>Marfan Syndrome and VEDS are both genetic disorders, but they result from mutations in different genes. Marfan Syndrome primarily stems from mutations in the FBN1 gene, which encodes fibrillin-1, a protein crucial for maintaining the integrity of connective tissue. On the other hand, VEDS is caused by mutations in the COL3A1 gene, responsible for producing type III collagen, a key component of blood vessels and organs' structural support.</p><p><b>Connective Tissue Involvement:</b></p><p>Connective tissue plays a pivotal role in both conditions, but the specific manifestations differ. In Marfan Syndrome, the connective tissue abnormalities primarily affect the skeletal system, eyes, and cardiovascular system. Individuals with Marfan Syndrome often exhibit characteristics such as tall stature, long limbs, joint hypermobility, scoliosis, lens dislocation, and aortic root dilation.</p><p>In contrast, VEDS primarily affects the blood vessels and internal organs due to the fragility of collagen type III. Patients with VEDS are at high risk of vascular complications, including arterial dissections, aneurysms, and organ ruptures. Skin fragility, easy bruising, and thin translucent skin are also common features of VEDS, reflecting the systemic nature of collagen defects.</p><p><b>Cardiovascular Involvement:</b></p><p>While both conditions involve the cardiovascular system, the nature of cardiovascular complications differs significantly. In Marfan Syndrome, aortic root dilation and subsequent aortic dissections represent the most serious cardiovascular manifestations. Regular cardiac monitoring and, in some cases, surgical intervention are necessary to manage aortic complications and reduce the risk of life-threatening events.</p><p>In VEDS, arterial ruptures and dissections can occur throughout the body, affecting various arteries beyond the aorta. These spontaneous vascular events pose a significant risk of sudden death and require vigilant monitoring and proactive management strategies. Unlike in Marfan Syndrome, where aortic root dilation is a prominent feature, VEDS patients may not always present with obvious aortic enlargement before a catastrophic vascular event occurs.</p><p><b>Management and Prognosis:</b></p><p>Managing Marfan Syndrome and VEDS involves multidisciplinary care aimed at addressing specific symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. However, the management strategies differ due to the distinct nature of each condition's primary manifestations.</p><p>In Marfan Syndrome, management often revolves around cardiovascular surveillance, orthopedic interventions for skeletal abnormalities, and ophthalmologic monitoring for vision-related issues. Medications such as beta-blockers may be prescribed to reduce the risk of aortic dissections.</p><p>For VEDS, management focuses on minimizing the risk of vascular complications through lifestyle modifications, avoiding activities that increase the likelihood of trauma, and close monitoring for signs of arterial involvement. Surgical interventions may be necessary in some cases to repair or reinforce weakened blood vessels, although the high surgical risk complicates treatment decisions.</p><p>If you have questions or additions, please email me or contact me through your favorite messaging platform. Thank you for your support. <a href="https://give.marfan.org/fundraiser/5260675" target="_blank">Please help me support this cause so others don't have to face the same challenges.</a></p><p>Thanks</p><p>Steve</p>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-60597311067600095162024-02-10T17:50:00.000-08:002024-02-10T17:50:43.557-08:00Strength Against VEDS - my new cause<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-SG9c5sVxlqZOSI62dgdIjmcNHeM4sNni72R_dOo3WetntXQYjs9Dp7JFxzELwVeGsccQZ7NfydMedoKh2w24pNPCR8D_Z1rOsa738Ta07PM65aVKtvRB93zrkDMDLNGgEOZ5GKQSLL5YOpCKVD9TdnSfc3hK59ngA1lKvV6xZ9hyGsxqu9D/s4032/IMG_1967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-SG9c5sVxlqZOSI62dgdIjmcNHeM4sNni72R_dOo3WetntXQYjs9Dp7JFxzELwVeGsccQZ7NfydMedoKh2w24pNPCR8D_Z1rOsa738Ta07PM65aVKtvRB93zrkDMDLNGgEOZ5GKQSLL5YOpCKVD9TdnSfc3hK59ngA1lKvV6xZ9hyGsxqu9D/s320/IMG_1967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is my son, Rob. He's the one on the right. He is one of the most generous, articulate, intelligent, and funny people I know. I'm not just saying that because he's my son, it's legit :-)<p></p><p>You may already know him. You're lucky.</p><p>What you may not know is that he has a genetic disorder called Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I'll provide more details below. Suffice it to say, it's a very shitty disorder. In short, people with this disorder don't produce enough collagen. Collagen is what helps tissues like blood vessel walls and internal organs stay together. Without collagen, your tissues are prone to tear and rupture. That's bad...really bad.</p><p>We only learned that Rob had this disorder in the last few years. I only recently learned in the last month, that there are organizations that are trying to help. I will get to my point, I learned that there are a family of connective tissue disorders and they're pretty rare. In fact, we didn't know these organizations existed until Rob had emergency, life saving surgery in December. The vascular surgeon connected us with the Connective Tissue Disorder group at Stanford Medical. </p><p>Now that I know that this group exists, I dug into how they're funding research. They raise funds for families and research. I am committing to this cause. My first order of business is to start raising funds; I have signed up for the March for Victory Event on May 4th this year. Please help me raise as much as I can by supporting this cause. The link is conveniently provided below</p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://give.marfan.org/fundraiser/5260675" target="_blank">Please Support the Strength Against VEDS team</a></h2><div>More about VEDs - get your hankies ready.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to know about how this disorder, visit the <a href="https://thevedsmovement.org/category/vascular-ehlers-danlos-community-stories/" target="_blank">VEDS Movement community stories page</a></div><div>If you're like most people, you probably didn't know that this existed until you read it today. Tragically, many people find out when someone close to them dies because they've had a burst blood vessel or organ. A lot of times, that doctors don't even know about the condition. You read the stories and you can't help but feel like you've been punched in the gut.</div><div><br /></div><div>What you also learn from these stories is that many people discover that they've been affected by VEDS and they never knew it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's my personal experience</div><div><br /></div><div>In the mid-80s, my brother-in-law passed away from a ruptured liver. At the time, it was attributed to a weakened liver because he had hepatitis a few years before. In 1987, my father-in-law passed away from an aortic dissection that, after surgery, threw a clot. They said it was because he was under a lot of stress. In 2010, my wife Sherri, collapsed and died from a burst cereberal artery. They said in the ER, "it was the finger of God".</div><div><br /></div><div>Now we know what it was. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know several other people affected. Rob gave me permission to tell his story. Others may too. You'll hear those, if they choose.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please help. <a href="https://thevedsmovement.org/category/vascular-ehlers-danlos-community-stories/" target="_blank">You can make a donation here.</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for listening. Reach me if you want to know more.</div><div>Steve</div>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-9164819909615749072019-05-17T09:42:00.000-07:002019-05-17T09:42:14.980-07:00Let's Beat this Cancer Scourge<br />
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Hey all,<br />
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For a number of years, as many of you know, I have raised money to help fight blood cancers. It's a personal cause because I know many people who have fought and lost their battles with leukemia or lymphoma, Margie, Dan, Bob, Leonard, Jeff, and the many who continue to fight the battle or are thankfully in remission. <br />
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Now I haven't reached out to you in a while as I was busy getting different parts of my own body replaced. This has kept me off the bike and out of action. This year I am back in the swing of it and making an active pitch.<br />
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As I know from previous fundraising campaigns, almost all of use know someone who has been afflicted with blood cancers. It's an awful way to fight for your life and someday smarter people than I will find a cure. <a href="https://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/ambbr19/steveasche#once-more-onto-the-bike!-1" target="_blank">But here's the catch, they need our help.</a> (BTW, the page load times on the LLS links are terrible, please be patient or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/donate/266799190925077/" target="_blank">use the facebook link</a>)<br />
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Nothing is free and it takes funding to support research and victim care. That's the mission of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and I am helping that mission by fundraising to support their research programs. <br />
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This June I will be doing a 100-mile bike ride with Team in Training. This group within LLS takes on physically difficult challenges to publicly raise awareness of the LLS mission and to commit to raise money to support its cause. Since February, I have been volunteering to help cyclists complete their first century ride and I have committed to raise funds and, of course, to do the ride as well. This is not an easy task and my team mates put in the training and will complete the ride knowing that they're creating more visibility for this cause and they're helping people in need.<br />
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Here's where I need your help. Please take a moment and consider to support this cause by donating to the LLS. I'll make it real simple, <a href="https://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/ambbr19/steveasche#once-more-onto-the-bike!-1" target="_blank">click on this link and it will take you to my fundraising page.</a><br />
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If you would rather donate through my facebook page, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/donate/266799190925077/" target="_blank">then go here</a><br />
As an incentive, if you donate to my cause, you will get an invitation and VIP schwag at PorkaPalooza X - Hamtastic Beasts and where to Smoke Them. That's my son's and my annual fete to smoked meats. Invitations will be completed shortly but you can mark your calendar for July 20th.<br />
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More to come about PorkaPalooza but please take the time and consider donating. </div>
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Thank you for your time and let's fight these terrible diseases together.</div>
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<br />Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-77001958343922372022015-07-13T23:10:00.000-07:002015-07-13T23:10:29.811-07:00Poor RudiSo you may recall from my previous post that I promised pictures of my puppies in exchange for a donation to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Not to fear, the pictures will be on their way. That is, after Rudi, our little Spinone Italiano puppy grows his fur back. <br />
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The poor little guy had to have surgery on his eye, He's okay. In preparation for the surgery, they had to shave half of his face. No big deal; not great but not ghastly. Well after he had his surgery, he had to wear the cone of shame for about two weeks. When we took him to have his stitches removed, the fur on the top of his head was all matted from the cone of shame rubbing on it. So after the indignity of having half his face shaved, the top of his head is shaved - pretty much like Friar Tuck. Now he looks like Two-Face from Batman lore. That is, if Two-Face was a friar...and a dog. Anyway, we'll send the thank you pictures once he has grown some of his hair back. For a seven month old puppy, he's had to endure a lot. <br />
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Speaking of thank you pictures, I want to thank the folks that donated over the last few weeks. I really appreciate your support. The ride is coming up and I appreciate any support you can provide to help support the fight against blood cancers. Want to know how? Just click the link here<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" target="_blank">Please Support the Fight Against Blood Cancers</a> </span><br />
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Speaking of enduring, we're about a month away from the big 200 mile ride and as if on schedule, something has gone wrong. Those who have followed my blog know about back surgeries, crashes, and other problems. Now the problem is a pinched nerve in the neck. For something as benign sounding as a "pinched nerve" it sure is painful. Painful as in, unable to sit on a bike and lean forward. <ugh> Of course this means that I am unable to train either. So now, things are getting interesting. I have no idea as to when this will get better, I only know that physical therapy, exercises and drugs have not solved it. We'll see what the follow-up visit to the orthopedic surgeon reveals. For me it's like waiting for the next season of Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead. Nonetheless, the fight against blood cancers continue. So I would surely appreciate your support. If I'm going to gut this one out, I would like it to be for as good a cause as I can make it. </ugh><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-aIz78BtEo/VaSnhPDOomI/AAAAAAAAVww/dK4ImGZNx10/s1600/RudiNoHead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-aIz78BtEo/VaSnhPDOomI/AAAAAAAAVww/dK4ImGZNx10/s320/RudiNoHead.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Since I didn't want you to go without a puppy picture this week. Here's Rudi after his surgery. Of course, it's cropped for his dignity.<br />
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Once again, I appreciate your support. It's simple. It's fun and you get a picture of a puppy. <br />
<a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" target="_blank">Please Support the Fight Against Blood Cancers</a><br />
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Thank youSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-47100533812167082112015-06-17T22:10:00.000-07:002015-06-17T22:10:41.254-07:00Let's Get Sirius<h2>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Before We Get Started</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The puppies and I watched Game #6 of the NBA Finals and they were just as excited as the rest of the house to see the Golden State Warriors break a 40 year drought since their last NBA title. I was cheering, the puppies were barking. I'm telling you, it was pandemonium. I can't imagine how excited they'll be if the Cal Bears ever win the Pac-12 Championship. It will happen...someday.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of Puppies</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know what else gets them excited, well, besides food, is when they hear that someone has made a donation to help fight blood cancers. Since the last email, I received at least seven requests for puppy pictures. That is, if you make a donation, I will send you a personalized picture with one of the puppies. For those that have donated, the pictures will be on their way soon. Poor little Rudi, the smaller puppy, has to have eye surgery and we were hoping to get his picture after the surgery. You don't really want a picture of a puppy with a weepy eye? I didn't think so.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's poor little Rudi. He goes in for surgery next Monday. He was all tired out from celebrating the Warriors victory that Tracy had to carry him to bed.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kyCbN1CFbSk/VYJGmGSSrrI/AAAAAAAAUgQ/fvqdQYbtiAo/s1600/Rudinew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kyCbN1CFbSk/VYJGmGSSrrI/AAAAAAAAUgQ/fvqdQYbtiAo/s320/Rudinew.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Big Dog - Rudi</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I said in the last message, our puppies are spokesdogs for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and they're helping in the fundraising efforts. The hope is that as they get older they can be therapy dogs and they'll be even more supportive of the cause. If you want your own puppy picture, all you have to do is make a donation to the cause. You can do that <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So How's the Training Going</span></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZKJcmRmfvkQbEPBynxG3LowbXVasPRBRoN84IwV5BZMGA7mTebnPj31td4eEws0ZVDAB_XSzjgLUDBAvlMpjq5gEFADD42fFCeX5KV7Ph3MucrAvgM9XAlgxZTejXdxOcWu7/s1600/jasper+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZKJcmRmfvkQbEPBynxG3LowbXVasPRBRoN84IwV5BZMGA7mTebnPj31td4eEws0ZVDAB_XSzjgLUDBAvlMpjq5gEFADD42fFCeX5KV7Ph3MucrAvgM9XAlgxZTejXdxOcWu7/s320/jasper+2.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jasper</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you may recall, I am tying my fundraising to my training goals. We're training to do a 200 mile ride from Seattle to Vancouver, Canada. We've really stepped up our training. A week ago Saturday we completed a 100 mile training ride. This is quite a painful distance as it was both hot and windy. Now we will be doing training rides on Saturday and Sunday. So the distances are increasing and we're going two <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWxuAe8tgJvb_cDEFVIukQvKwJiM4oRmrOv15bzdFEYtTXJoUvadPEaJ_ur_90JfUObYz_Rf9FBmuvfA2jCQ_2GKITEANj4G5jRJiQrpQU8WdUkXNAmbRi0OSk0nQlZMZRXYY/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWxuAe8tgJvb_cDEFVIukQvKwJiM4oRmrOv15bzdFEYtTXJoUvadPEaJ_ur_90JfUObYz_Rf9FBmuvfA2jCQ_2GKITEANj4G5jRJiQrpQU8WdUkXNAmbRi0OSk0nQlZMZRXYY/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudi says "Please donate"</td></tr>
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days in a row each weekend. On top of that, it's starting to get quite warm during the day. While you are relaxing in your backyard sipping Pina Coladas think of our team suffering in the heat while raising money and awareness to fight blood cancers. Wish us luck!</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you want to get in on the puppy picture action before the puppies become famous, just go to this link and <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" target="_blank">make a donation to support the cause</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you again for reading.</span></div>
Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-79405838828358691402015-05-26T22:52:00.001-07:002015-05-26T22:52:33.135-07:00Oh Canada! Part Deux!<div style="text-align: right;">
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I can't believe it's been nearly 4 months since my first update. Normally I'm more on top of this. To catch you up, I am raising money to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma - again. I am taking on a new cycling challenge - again. And we are planning to ride ~200 miles from Seattle to Vancouver Canada as a way to raise awareness for the LLS program. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugvWqaPx6EtQoOeIPkAxS7V6OT1ZA5jOn9xjXWxvGfLdmDi58QKKW6pztZzb2W_ZH2vcU7MfxD0Yopd6XvUhkEyyGWVnH7yMjft5iTTFrIddwq9a42PYA7ECp2m5ZgO12CT8F/s1600/Canada2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugvWqaPx6EtQoOeIPkAxS7V6OT1ZA5jOn9xjXWxvGfLdmDi58QKKW6pztZzb2W_ZH2vcU7MfxD0Yopd6XvUhkEyyGWVnH7yMjft5iTTFrIddwq9a42PYA7ECp2m5ZgO12CT8F/s200/Canada2.jpg" width="162" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh Canada!</td></tr>
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First let me apologize for making disparaging remarks about Canada. I know that referring to Canada as America Junior or America's Hat was dismissive of the friendly folks in Canada of whom I know a few. Henceforth, I have nothing but love for Canada and Canadians. In fact, I even bought this cycling jersey to wear and show my support for the great white north.<br />
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Alright, but what have you been up to? Well we've been training a bunch. We've ridden hundreds of miles and climbed thousands of feet. The Team in Training teammates have been hard at work raising awareness and funds to fight these diseases. And while I have been coaching right there beside them, it's high time I did my part to help the good fight. So I decided to call in some accomplices to help me with my efforts. Well let me introduce - Jasper and Rudi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6kvK18w-INO1Ic1F2dsLkN2Estr-UMhjvxwRLhRNuvicJjUO8qwbMyirGEtILb5nbe5YTQGVLevrj7a_ejJKJa43j-BakePrXsbICc76e1SPOeHQdQepeAw4ivSpOY9UWFJz/s1600/Jasper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6kvK18w-INO1Ic1F2dsLkN2Estr-UMhjvxwRLhRNuvicJjUO8qwbMyirGEtILb5nbe5YTQGVLevrj7a_ejJKJa43j-BakePrXsbICc76e1SPOeHQdQepeAw4ivSpOY9UWFJz/s200/Jasper.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jasper</td></tr>
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Jasper and Rudi are the latest additions to our household. Shortly after my first message, we went to Paso Robles and we picked up two 8 week old Spinone Italiano puppies Jasper and Rudi are the newest and liveliest members of our family. As all puppies are rambunctious, ours are no exception.<br />
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As we have been training them to do all of the good dog behaviors like sit, stay, fetch, and lie down, we've had a chance to learn what really makes them happy. And of course, what really makes them happy is learning that someone has made a donation to fight cancer.<br />
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How can you not fall in love with puppy like that?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWY7lEI8Xx4-RzrtOEPFD6Krt5cnH-EY8sKjF8zxLLu4MrZg5icyS0SdYzAHrM9e1_3uuD-Pgkn1nQpw1Earbwn2GoB93LF-HlosNmduw1rbxSD8caxYwh4J3jlPjkdrwjCJc/s1600/rudi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWY7lEI8Xx4-RzrtOEPFD6Krt5cnH-EY8sKjF8zxLLu4MrZg5icyS0SdYzAHrM9e1_3uuD-Pgkn1nQpw1Earbwn2GoB93LF-HlosNmduw1rbxSD8caxYwh4J3jlPjkdrwjCJc/s200/rudi.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudi</td></tr>
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On behalf of Jasper and Rudi, I would like to appeal to your love of dogs and your disdain for cancer and ask if you would be so kind as to donate to this fine cause. Of course Jasper and Rudi would be very thankful when you make a donation. Here's the deal, when you <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" rel="" target="_blank">make a donation</a>, I will email you a picture of Jasper or Rudi reacting while I tell them about your donation. How about that! You will see the very moment as they react with glee.<br />
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Of course, you'll want to know how to donate. It's simple. Go to <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" style="background-color: white; color: #015782; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; text-decoration: none;">http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche</a> pick an amount, make a donation and you're good to go. On behalf of myself and the Team in Training Pups, please consider supporting this cause.<br />
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<br />Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-41043683051881703112015-01-22T18:52:00.001-08:002015-01-22T18:52:20.924-08:00I'm Going to America's Hat<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Northward Bound</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A couple years ago a friend of mine said they could tell it was a new year because they started getting emails from me asking them to sponsor me in my fundraising. Well, last year, as you may recall, I did not hit people up for fundraising. Instead, I asked them to join me on riding a century and that I would sponsor them. Pretty magnanimous of me, I must say. A few hardy souls took me up on the offer and they will tell you I made good on my promise.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course, that was last year. This year is another story.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You see, there are more challenges out there to be met. And I've found a new one. Now before you get ahead of yourself, yes, I will be raising money to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma and I challenge you to help me. I'll come back to that, but first let me tell you what I'm planning to do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instead of doing a run-of-the-mill 100-mile ride, I have signed up to do a 198 mile ride from Seattle to Vancouver Canada. Yep, we're taking our show on the road and we're going to cross into the Great White North. On August 15th we will start our two-day trek to the land of maple syrup and cheap prescription drugs. I say "we" because I will be doing this ride with the fine folks from Team in Training.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now this is an ease-you-into the journey letter. I have plenty more to say and you can bet I will get around to saying it. I'll give you the details of the ride and, oh yes, some cool incentives, but I'll be persistent in one message - please help end blood cancers. It can only come through research, hard work and strong wills. More of that will come in future posts</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So it starts today, please do us all a favor and consider donating to my cause. You can donate <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you for your support and please follow along for the next few months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Steve</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's the donation site - <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche">http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/rsvp215/sasche</a> for links that don't work</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-32230634982297479902014-05-02T18:36:00.000-07:002014-05-02T18:36:12.231-07:00Everybody Loves DogsWelcome back; I know it's been a few months. Last time I wrote, I told you about my plans to recruit people to train with me to do a <a href="http://www.steveasche.com/2013/12/now-lets-have-some-fun-in-2014.html" target="_blank">century ride and to raise money to fight blood cancers</a>. I was happy to say, four people took me up on the offer. For their efforts, I ponied up and supported their fundraising for a minimum of $50 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEP8NT2_vtUV5D6IGeZsL6H9PBBfp1gkQe6sEAPXn01UywHIBuvXrlLkHUZwQpQX476FMPjzbP_RbfQl5V50NJ4qqUo0NeAYihgFsuW8r_QsIutW13zyBrBEFeTuxFRytQRne3/s1600/Koda1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEP8NT2_vtUV5D6IGeZsL6H9PBBfp1gkQe6sEAPXn01UywHIBuvXrlLkHUZwQpQX476FMPjzbP_RbfQl5V50NJ4qqUo0NeAYihgFsuW8r_QsIutW13zyBrBEFeTuxFRytQRne3/s1600/Koda1.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a>Of course, I'm not writing to be self-congratulatory. Nope, I'm writing about this dog. This is Koda. He is a fine looking animal. He belongs to my friend Jennifer, who happens to be one of the four people that agreed to join me with Team in Training. Well, Jennifer has been working very hard at training and fundraising in addition to being a devoted mom to Koda. <br />
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I have it on good authority that what really makes Koda happy, besides posing for photos, is when his mom gets another donation to support her fundraising efforts. Look how cute he is with those sunglasses on. I'm sure you would like to help make Koda happy. I wager that if you made a donation to Jennifer's cause, that she would even send a picture of Koda to you. Of course, Jennifer has no knowledge that I'm doing this, she might just send Koda after me.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aqma9ZXi4Yk/U2RCn9z3O3I/AAAAAAAADsA/gzkQA4YzcVM/s1600/Koda2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aqma9ZXi4Yk/U2RCn9z3O3I/AAAAAAAADsA/gzkQA4YzcVM/s1600/Koda2.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a>In years past, I've made requests for you to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through my fundraising. As I said at the outset of the year, I'm focusing my attention on supporting others' efforts. So I'm not asking... but if you were looking for a way to make an old dog happy and, by the way, help fight blood cancers then would you please <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/ambbr14/lindstaedt" target="_blank">consider donating to my friend's fundraising efforts</a>. When you make your donation, feel free to put in the comments that you're doing it to make Koda happy. And if you can't donate, I understand. I promise not to suggest that you don't like dogs. Because we all know, everybody loves dogs and who wouldn't want to make one happy.<br />
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Thank you and please visit Jennifer's donation page at <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/ambbr14/lindstaedt" target="_blank">http://pages.teamintraining.org/gba/ambbr14/lindstaedt</a><br />
Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-91891391142724789832013-12-31T14:53:00.004-08:002013-12-31T14:53:49.389-08:00Now Let's Have Some Fun in 2014Happy New Year everyone and Merry Christmas too. <br />
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Let me start by saying, I'm not asking for money. That's a switch. I know my friend Dave said that he could always tell when spring was near because he would get an email from me asking for support for fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Last year, as you may recall, I did the Death Ride, and in the process, you fine folks donated over $4000 to support the cause. Once again, thank you very much.<br />
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I actually did two Team in Training events in 2014. The Solvang Century in March and the aforementioned Death Ride. And I must say, I had a lot of fun. So when my dear friend K.Sue Duncan called me a month ago to coach for her cycling team, I simply couldn't say no. <br />
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So here's the thing, I will be coaching as part of the Team in Training America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride team (AMBBR). This is a century ride that circumnavigates Lake Tahoe. That's right, on Sunday June 1st, a whole bunch of riders will be circling the lake. Five years ago, Team Shake n' Bake did this ride and it changed their lives ... for the better. Now, I can't guarantee a life altering experience such as Team Shake 'n Bake's, but I can guarantee you'll have fun. <br />
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So instead of asking for money, I'm inviting you to join me on this classic, beautiful ride. You'll be in great shape, you'll be virtuous and you'll be in great company. So here's my invitation - sign up for TnT AMBBR and we'll have the ride of a lifetime. You can join by going to this link here <a href="https://www.teamintraining.org/register" target="_blank">https://www.teamintraining.org/register</a><br />
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But wait, "don't we have to raise money", you ask. Yes, there is a fundraising commitment. But here's the deal. If you sign up, I will personally donate the first $50 for your fundraising. THAT'S RIGHT. <u><b>I'm not asking for money, I'm giving money away!!</b></u> Holy guacamole. Call it the Christmas Spirit, call it the weakness from dieting, call it ether induced hallucinations, but the offer is legit. If you sign up and tell them I referred you, I will plunk 50 "semolians" towards your cause. I will also help promote you too. Because, that's just the kind of guy I am. <br />
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So go to the link I've provided or contact me with questions. Sign up in the next couple weeks. Training begins in February. You'll have fun and you get to help fight some crappy diseases. <br />
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Please join. <a href="https://www.teamintraining.org/register" target="_blank">https://www.teamintraining.org/register</a><br />
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SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-21107496842313226892013-08-12T23:52:00.001-07:002013-08-13T00:03:10.658-07:00Bigger News Than the Return of Breaking Bad<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: small;">
First let me say thank you to all the donors that contributed $4,000 towards the fight against Leukemia and Lymphoma. Your support was phenomenal and I greatly appreciate it. Now to work my way through the thank you notes...</div>
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So the Death Ride happened on July 13th, just about a month ago. But before I tell you about the Death Ride, let me tell you about another ride. On September 17th 2011, I was leading my team of riders over hills on the Peninsula. We had just finished climbing Old La Honda Road and had worked our way over to the descent down Kings Mountain Road. We started down Kings Mountain, in one moment I could see our path down the tree lined road and in the next moment, I was in an ambulance and a paramedic was asking me if I knew where I was. From the accounts of the riders I was with, I would guess that 20 minutes of my life were spent as someone else. I was told that I crashed and that I was talking after I regained consciousness, but for the life of me, I cannot remember any of that. While crashing is traumatic in and of itself, the part that really unnerved me was as I was riding in the back of the ambulance - all I could think was that I needed to call Sherri. As I said it to myself, I couldn't understand why that thought made me uneasy. As I lay in the rolling ambulance, I searched my mind trying to recall her phone number. After several minutes of brain racking, like being dropped in a cold lake where the water takes your breath away and you can't think of anything but air, it all came back. The paramedic gave me a startled look as I gasped with the realization that I couldn't call my wife because she had passed away 17 months earlier. The paramedic asked what was happening and I feebly waved him off and said I would be okay. </div>
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But I wasn't okay.</div>
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Every hill I have ridden since that day has been an exercise of will. It's not the going up, rather the going down. As I would start a descent, I would ride my brakes too much, I would grip the handle bars too tightly; essentially the counter-intuitive things you should not do if you're trying to avoid a crash. Nonetheless, every hill was approached with weighty apprehension. After a year of this, I decided to do something about it. I was so afraid of descending hills that it was taking the fun out of riding my bike. I was so afraid of ending up on the road and losing myself, and either repeating or outright losing memories. So I did the irrational thing, I faced down my fears. I reasoned, if you're afraid of descents, then do more descents. So I signed up to do that Death Ride, not only to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma, a worthy cause if there ever was one, but to regain my confidence and joy for riding.</div>
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I knew that training for the Death Ride would also be traumatic. In the previous three Death Rides I've done, Sherri was heavily involved in SAG support. She would come on practically every ride and would be there along the route to provide water and food to support the team. She was so good at it, that she created a cook book that SAG people still use. During this year's training I would roll up to a rest stop to see snacks that our supporters provided that were made from Sherri's recipes. On every ride, I would relive her memory because the rest stops would be at the same locations from rides that we did years earlier. Every training ride was a melancholy reminder.</div>
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So the Death Ride comes and, as always, it's painful and torturous. Every climb is tough and every descent is nerve-wracking. As I was climbing the west side of Ebbett's Pass, the fourth of five mountain passes, a section where the sun sucks the energy from me and usually portends the onset of leg cramps, something different happened. As I was grinding it out, a cool tailwind comes from the valley and I felt relieved and energized. Like being pulled from the lake, I felt buoyed. In that moment, I could hear Sherri's voice in my mind saying it was going to be okay; you can do this. </div>
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And you know what...I did. </div>
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I rode better on the last 40 miles of the ride than I did on the previous 80. I was able to relax and, like a skier slaloming through fresh powder, I flowed easily down the east side of Ebbett's and kept a blistering pace through Markleeville, past the cheering crowds of spectators who sat on the courthouse lawn eating ice cream as we suffered by. I climbed the last mountain pass and I kept a steady and strong rhythm all the way to the top. As I descended, I could feel myself relaxing and enjoying the wind rushing past while savoring the fresh mountain air. </div>
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I finished the Death Ride an hour faster than previous times. As I rode to the finish I could see the TnT folks and I could see my girlfriend Tracy. While I have to say I couldn't have done the Death Ride without their support during the season and on the ride day, I know that on this day, there was something more.</div>
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Thanks to all my supporters for another great season. If you would still like to donate, please visit<a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" target="_blank"> my fundraising site.</a> You're doing a good thing.</div>
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Steve</div>
Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-53648471501275233952013-06-03T22:19:00.002-07:002013-06-03T22:19:50.851-07:00Bigger News than the Discovery of the Higgs Boson<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I realize the Higgs Boson discovery was some months ago, but I'm totally a science geek and really like that stuff. Anyway, I can't believe it's been over a month since my last update. You'd think I was on vacation... I wasn't. Actually, I have some good news to share. I am now re-employed. Yes, I know many of you didn't know I was ever unemployed. Seems the startup I was with last year would rather conserve cash than pay for marketing people. I don't blame them, it's the reality of startups. So I was on the dole for Christmas and New Years. Not to fret though, I got a great job working for SAP. I was contracting since the beginning of March and last week they decided to make me a full-time employee. Sweet!</div>
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In an odd twist of fate, SAP was one the marquee customers for my last company, Redwood Systems. So every day, I see the Redwood's products right above my head. But enough about that, let's get to the important things.</div>
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First, you still have time to make a contribution and get in on the Pork-a-Palooza - Hamtastic 4 action. Simply go to my fundraising page and <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">pull the handle</a>.. You don't want to miss out on the this event, I've gotten donations from all over the world - individuals and institutions. I'm telling you, this really is bigger than the Higgs Boson discovery.</div>
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I realize I haven't really said much about my training. In years past, that would be most of my message. Let me put it this way, it's been damn hard. So get this - normally I ride with the not the slow group and not the fast group, I usually ride with the half-fast group. So some of the riders, nay most of the riders, from the fast group (aka the varsity team) decided they want to ride with the half-fast group. Obviously they don't want to work as hard. So what does this mean, me and my rather massive body have have to chase these little bastards up and down every hill we train on. Mind you, I don't mind if they want to dog it with the half-fast team. I figure I'll benefit because I'm working a lot harder than they are. </div>
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Speaking of working hard, you know, cancer won't cure itself. Again this year, I've heard from lots of people that have loved ones who have been affected by blood cancers. I am thankful I can do what I can to help raise funds to battle these diseases. I'll keep chasing those little-bastard varsity riders over hundreds of miles of mountains if it helps raise funds to fight leukemia and lymphoma. Please take a moment to do <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">something good and get on the Pork-a-Palooza train</a>. </div>
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Thanks again</div>
Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-35880496628610413692013-04-24T21:57:00.003-07:002013-04-24T21:57:35.734-07:00Bigger News Than My Birthday<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Hello Again,</span><br />
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I'm back with a bit of an update and some cool news. First, many thanks to all the fine folks who have donated to the fight against blood cancers. Your generosity always continues to astound me. If you want to see how much has been raised, I encourage you to <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">go to my fundraising page to check it out</a> While you're there, feel free to click the radio buttons and try entering some numbers. It's very worthwhile.</div>
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Speaking of numbers, so the here's an update on the suffering. By the suffering, I mean the training. First, you have to understand, training for this event is hard. Not hard like working with differential equations, hard like dragging a dead pig across a desert. The reason I don't post any pictures of myself is because there are no happy shots - only grimacing shots. If you've known me a long time, you've noticed that I haven't aged well. That's okay. I'm fine with that; the grizzled appearance accompanies my occasionally cranky demeanor... like when I'm doing my training rides. But despite my challenges with youth, or lack thereof, and weight, as in too much, I've still managed to ride close to 1400 miles and climb nearly 107,000 feet. And that's just the beginning. Now it sounds like I'm congratulating myself, I'm not. I just want you to know, that there are about 25 people just like me, well except for the weight and age thing, who are suffering and fundraising right along with me. And each one has committed to raise money and awareness to fight these terrible diseases. </div>
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Of course there's something I'm doing that they're not doing, and that is Pork-a-Palooza - The Hamtastic 4. That's right, the invitations are ready to hit the interwebs. Now generally speaking, invitations go to donors, past, present and sometimes future. The easiest way to lock in your invitation is simply, make a donation. Yep, go to the link that is included in the first or last paragraphs and you too will be on the a-list for the smoked meat extravaganza of the the year. As an added incentive, anyone that donates $100 or more, will receive a jar of Pork-a-Palooza special caramel sauce. The early reviews are in, here are a few:</div>
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"You call that caramel? I call it heaven"</div>
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"I could eat that right out of the jar"</div>
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"I've heard tales of caramel sauce like this in the West Indies from my days before the mast...yahhrrrr!!"</div>
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Sounds pretty good, huh? </div>
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Anyway, Pork-a-Palooza is scheduled for June 23rd. </div>
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Finally, it was my birthday last week and I'm reminded that "you can't have your cake and eat it too." "Nuts to that", I just say buy more cake. And the moral is, you can do something good for someone else and do something good for yourself. Simply, <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">make a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society</a> and join Rob and me at Pork-a-Palooza - The Hamtastic 4.</div>
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Thanks for listening</div>
<span class="HOEnZb" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.333333969116211px;"><span style="color: #888888;">Steve</span></span>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-34892172548365378812013-03-31T19:02:00.003-07:002013-03-31T19:02:44.649-07:00Bigger News than The Walking Dead Finale<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Hello again, </span><br />
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I'm back to clutter your inbox with observations, solicitation and celebration. If you read my last email/blog post you should have learned about Pork-a-Palooza - The Hamtastic Four and my ongoing efforts to raise funds to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma. To recap, I am attempting to do my fifth Death Ride. That's riding my bike 129 miles, 15,000 feet of climbing in one very long day. That event happens in July. I'm doing this to raise awareness and funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. You know, these diseases won't cure themselves. So the LLS funds research and patient services. Truly, it's a good cause and breakthroughs will help many victims.</div>
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As if the virtuous benefit of donating to a good cause wasn't enough motivation for you, I am also hosting an annual event with my son, Rob. Pork-a-Palooza is a fete replete with heaps of meat. This year's Pork-a-Palooza continues to get better. As you know, or will know, Pork-a-Palooza is a combination smoke fest - where Rob and I prepare lots of smoked dishes - and pot luck. To round out the menu, guests also bring their pork-themed dishes. This year we will make things more exciting. That's right, it's a food fest and pot luck and we will be giving awards to those dishes voted best in show. Email invitations will be coming soon.</div>
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So how do you get on this smokey party wagon? That's easy - <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;">make a donation to the cause.</a> I'm thinking of a number...$50.00 is a good start. Now if you donate $100 or more, you'll get a jar of my homemade caramel sauce made specially for this event. Last year I gave out t-shirts and trying to estimate a distribution of sizes just made it a little impractical. So this year the caramel sauce is one size fits all.</div>
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Many people have already jumped on the party wagon. Thank you to all those who are already supporting the cause.</div>
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While all this is happening, there's a fair amount of training going on. On March 9th I finished my season with Team Awesome at the Solvang Century. Team Awesome was my group of TnT riders who trained all winter to do, for most, their first century ride. They too, like all TnT participants, raised money for LLS. Two of my riders were top fundraisers for the greater team. So wouldn't it be cool if we could match the fundraising exploits of Team Awesome. Well I'm certainly going to try.</div>
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Remember, please donate at my site <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" style="color: #1155cc;">Follow this link</a></div>
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Finally, as the holidays of Easter and Passover have just passed, I am reminded of hope. These holidays tell us that there is always hope and that's what this fundraising is about. We're fighting today in the hopes that we will defeat these diseases.</div>
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Thanks for your time</div>
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Steve</div>
Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-59637363846892963252013-02-13T01:19:00.000-08:002013-02-13T01:19:17.780-08:00Bigger News Than the Pope's ResignationWelcome back, it's that time of year when I start popping up in your inbox with messages about fundraising and pork. Yes, I am the email equivalent of the swallows returning to Capistrano only with less bird droppings. I realize this may be confusing for new recipients of these emails, so let me explain:<br />
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Since 2006 I have been raising money to help fight Leukemia and Lymphoma. I support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through the Team in Training program. I take on a physical challenge to raise awareness and funds for LLS. In return for supporting my quest, my son and I throw a kick-ass party called Pork-a-Palooza. More about this year's Pork-a-Palooza in a bit.<br />
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First, let me tell you why I do this. I know several people who died from leukemia and lymphoma. In all cases they were taken from us too soon. I have met many blood cancer survivors and I know that they would not be here today if not for advances in medicine and research. I think that with continued research, we will find a cure for these devastating diseases. <br />
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Second, let me tell you what I'm doing. I have committed to complete the Tour of the California Alps, more popularly known as The Death Ride. This is a single-day bike ride that climbs 5 mountains over 129 miles. To put it bluntly, it's crazy hard. To do it you have to work at it and the lunacy of it helps me talk about the fundraising challenge. Speaking of which, let me be specific - I hope to raise $3500 in donations by the end of May. To donate, please <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" target="_blank">click on this link here to visit my donation page</a>.<br />
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Finally, if you donate you get more than simply the satisfaction of supporting a good cause. When Pork-a-Palooza started to get popular, we struck on the idea of combining it with fundraising. So here's the payoff. If you donate $50, you get preferred treatment at this year's fourth annual Pork-a-Palooza. The theme for this year's Pork-a-Palooza is [drum roll]....<b>THE HAMTASTIC FOUR.</b> Additionally, we will have an award for best dish and we'll be expanding the menu. More on this in future updates.<br />
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Just like Pork-a-Palooza gets better each year, the offers get better too. If you donate over $100, you get a jar of my home made caramel sauce. I have been crafting a combination of two of my favorite flavors. More on this in future updates. <br />
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So there you have it. I am raising money to fight leukemia and lymphoma. If you donate you get preferred treatment at Pork-a-Palooza - The Hamtastic Four. If you donate more, you get some phenomenal caramel sauce too. <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/touralps13/oneforthethumb" target="_blank">To donate - click here</a><br />
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Finally, mark your calendars Pork-a-Palooza - The Hamtastic Four will be held on June 23rd. Invitations to follow.<br />
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<br />Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-26766366180627775162012-08-18T11:15:00.000-07:002012-08-18T11:15:05.100-07:00Charity Golf Tournament - September 8<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">My mom is individually driving a fundraiser Golf Tournament on Sept. 8th. It raises money for Alzheimers and Cooley's Anemia. They have 30 sponsors, so there are lots of prizes to be won plenty of schwag and some nice contests. There's a $10,000 hole-in-one contest. She NEEDS PLAYERS NOW to sign up! Let me know if you're interested or share this message and tell them to contact me. it is a scramble (best-ball) tournament at Empire Ranch Golf Course in Folsom. Entry fee is $125. Sign in at 11:00. Let me know and I'll send you the entry form</span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-75008858844529786052012-02-18T13:45:00.000-08:002012-02-18T13:45:25.580-08:00Pork-a-Palooza Calling<br />
Welcome back.<br />
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It seems like there are a lot of people that are intrigued by the concept of Pork-a-Palooza, my fundraising event. Let me give you the background. My son, Rob, and I struck upon the idea a couple years ago when I discovered a recipe for Bacon Explosions. You see, we were trying to determine the merits of Ham Smash-em-ups when we discovered a recipe for Bacon Explosions and decided, that we found a new culinary treat we had to try. We did a test run and the results were nothing short of astounding. With our new found gastronomic discovery we decided we needed to share this with as many people as we could. Thus Pork-a-Palooza was born.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4htpj-6NXEvOVUo2jKtRlXkcTPgjV-0SFAaoty4KZRO0XP1uoOsDFF94R7WzV00E4jsY-Cp7FzbWZHv_ZmAl_GhWYokhGMFu7rZq2o8Yj1H0boF2yLJwM81JHkh40gDNiW9F0/s1600/BaconExplosion.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4htpj-6NXEvOVUo2jKtRlXkcTPgjV-0SFAaoty4KZRO0XP1uoOsDFF94R7WzV00E4jsY-Cp7FzbWZHv_ZmAl_GhWYokhGMFu7rZq2o8Yj1H0boF2yLJwM81JHkh40gDNiW9F0/s320/BaconExplosion.JPG" width="315" /></a></div>
For those that haven’t had a bacon explosion, let me explain what it is. It is awesomeness, surrounded by greatness, wrapped with awesomeness. I start with a weave of high-quality, dry-cured bacon arranged in a square, add a layer of ground sausage, and fill the middle with crispy fried bacon. I then roll the square into a roll, add spices and the bacon explosion is ready for cooking. I smoke it for several hours. After it’s done, I slice it and you can eat it on a sandwich roll or as is. <br />
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Now, for Pork-a-Palooza, we knew having one dish wouldn’t suffice, so we decided to include ribs, pulled pork, carnitas and other dishes to provide variety. <br />
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As you know, I decided to combine fundraising with Pork-a-Palooza. And everyone that donated a minimum of $50 would get a special apparel item at Pork-a-Palooza. I originally said the deadline for contributing to my fundraising was Valentine’s Day. If you didn’t get a chance to get your donation in time, good news! I’ve extended the deadline to February 29th – Sadie Hawkin’s Day. You have an extra couple weeks to make a donation to a great cause, get on the A-list for Pork-a-Palooza and score some unique schwag. <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche" target="_blank">Go to my TNT site to make a donation.</a><br />
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Even though Pork-a-Palooza III is scheduled for June 24th, my fundraising ends at the end of this month. So take advantage while you can. <br />
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While the fund raising is going well, these diseases aren't going to eradicate themselves. So if you’ve been thinking about donating and haven’t gotten around to it, here’s your last reminder. Take a moment to help support leukemia and lymphoma research and patients and their families.<br />
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Of course, take a moment to check out my blog at <a href="http://notabouttheback.blogspot.com/">http://notabouttheback.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Thank you again,<br />
Steve<br />
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<br /></div>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-33184036136595654922012-01-31T21:59:00.000-08:002012-01-31T21:59:02.877-08:00LuckyLast week Tuesday, my good friend Scott and I had arranged to meet and review our goals for 2012. It's a practice we do each year and we do it to keep ourselves honest and, frankly, if you tell someone what you intend to do, there's a higher likelihood you'll actually do it. It's a good and effective practice.<br />
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I came with my list of goals and was prepared to start, when Scott told me that his friend Drew would be joining us for dinner. I didn't expect what he said next. He said, "When Drew arrives, don't say 'Hey, how's it going because he's likely to tell you.'" We talked about it further and I said I would come up with another greeting.<br />
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Drew arrived and I greeted him with, "Hey, I'm glad to see you."<br />
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Beer arrived. We talked about cycling and how riding up Mt. Diablo just kicks our overweight butts. We talked about MMA bouts and how they are kind of homo-erotic. We talked about work. Everything was pretty casual.<br />
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Then Drew talked about watching a TV show with his 21 year old son and how his son hits his self-medication button and will sometimes just blank out during the show and come back to consciousness a while later. You know, the self medication button that gives you a dose of morphine to ease the pain. As he talked, I could see his eyes get wet. You know, guys don't want to cry in front of other guys and certainly not in front of women waitresses. Nonetheless, I could see the emotion in his eyes. <br />
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He talked about how his son is home now and how they had to post the DNR on the front door. He talked about the mundane things you do when your going through life - paying bills for his son, making deposits in his bank accounts and wondering if this was really going to be necessary. As terrible as it is, he knew his son was going to die from a blood cancer.<br />
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All I could say to him was, "I'm sorry, I can't even imagine what you're going through."<br />
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I couldn't imagine. But also, I couldn't stop thinking about him. I couldn't stop thinking about my own kids. I couldn't stop thinking about every parent I know. I couldn't stop thinking about those who are close to me. My heart goes out to him. He and his wife have to watch their son, who should be having the time of his life, slip into that long night. I can't imagine. But I know, I could feel his emotion.<br />
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I hope you all realize the simple facts - we're just lucky.<br />
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I still think a lot about Drew and his son. I think about all the stories and friends who've suffered. I know that someday, we'll beat these diseases. <br />
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It's my goal. <br />
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You can help. Please. Simply <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche" target="_blank">go to my fundraising page</a> and make a donation to help<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Offer Still Stands</b></span><br />
Make a donation of at least $50 and you will get a special item of apparel at Pork-a-Palooza III. That's right, donors will get special treatment. Hell, getting invited to Pork-a-Palooza is special treatment. Mark your calendars, June 24th. (I realize that I said the 28th in the last email. The 24th is the Sunday after Father's Day)<br />
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Please make donation if you can <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche">http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche</a><br />
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Follow my blog at <a href="http://notabouttheback.blogspot.com/">http://notabouttheback.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Be lucky<br />
SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-90922550009362021012012-01-04T22:29:00.000-08:002012-01-04T22:29:18.701-08:00A Bad Day to be a Pig<span style="color: purple; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy New Year Everyone!</span><br />
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By everyone, I mean all you friends and acquaintances that are receiving this blog posting. So let's get right to it, my holidays were, like pretty much everyone's, pleasant but over too soon. I got many warm wishes and generous gifts. I want to highlight one gift in particular.<br />
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My dear friend Lori gave me a rather unique and unexpected gift. She enrolled me in the Bacon of the Month Club! Once a month for the next three months I will receive 1 pound of the world's best bacon. The first pound arrived a couple days ago and I must say, if you're a vegetarian - this might just get you to switch. Man oh man, is it tasty. <br />
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But why am I talking about bacon when what this blog is really about is bike riding and fundraising to fight blood cancers. Okay, I'm getting to that. The bacon, like most good bacons, got me to thinking. In my last message about a month ago, I mentioned that we would do something special around Pork-a-Palooza for people who donated to support my fundraising efforts. It was kind of vague, and frankly, not my best prose. <br />
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So let's reset.<br />
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I am fundraising again to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma - two diseases that have killed people that I cared about. The bottom line is, these diseases are horrible and they won't go away without research. I do not want to see anyone else I love have to fight these diseases. I am riding my bike for Team in Training in the miserable cold of winter to raise awareness and I raise money. If you want to support me,<a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche" target="_blank"> then go to this link </a><br />
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As always, I like to put a little extra incentive into the fundraising. So here it is. I'm combining a cause I care about with an event that is actually quite fun. For the past two years, The Lad and I have hosted the gastronomic extravaganza known as Pork-a-Palooza. The first year, we made a modest effort and about 20 people joined us. The second year we kicked it up a notch and we had about 40 guests and smoked about 40 pounds of meat. This year, it's katie-bar-the-door. By that I mean, we're pulling out the stops and kicking out the jambs. This promises to be the best Pork-a-Palooza ever - and frankly, it will be a bad day to be a pig. We are finding new recipes for smoked meat delight that will raise the bar for Pork-a-Palooza to stratospheric levels. "But what does this have to do with fundraising?", you ask. <br />
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Well I'll tell you;<u> for every donation over $50, you will get a custom Pork-a-Palooza article of clothing.</u> Something you can wear, obviously. These items will only be provided to donors that give over $50. In addition, and this should go without saying, you will receive your awards at Pork-a-Palooza. Well that's a pretty good deal. And to remind you, Pork-a-Palooza is scheduled for June 28th. That's a Sunday afternoon, so any of my bike riding friends that say "I have a big ride" - you should plan to ride on Saturday.<br />
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But here's the catch. There's always a catch. To qualify for the Pork-a-Palooza apparel, you have to make your donation by February 14th. Why February 14th? Because what better gift of love can you give on Valentine's day than the gift of life by supporting the fight against Leukemia and Lymphoma. (pretty good, eh?)<br />
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Join me in the fight against blood cancers. It's a New Year and it's time to renew the fight and maybe this will be the year of the breakthrough.<br />
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Thank you. Stay tuned for more updates, but remember please if you want to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche" target="_blank">please donate here.</a><br />
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And if you want to follow my adventures, then check out my blog - <a href="http://notabouttheback.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
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SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-28493453876015673602011-12-03T15:17:00.001-08:002011-12-03T16:51:21.346-08:00It's time to start...againWow, that's been a long time. My updates for the past 18 months have pretty much centered on one topic, and I think it's time to change topics. Let's dust the cobwebs off this blog and get back to addressing the issues at hand. Namely, let's talk about bike riding adventures and leading the fight against blood cancers.<br />
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So before I get back into bike riding tales, let me tell you about the immediate priority, that is I'm once again taking up the fight against blood cancers. I've know too many people who've battled leukemia and lymphoma and frankly, I'm fed up. It's a cruel twist of the human condition that some unlucky folks are stricken with these tragic diseases. Well, I'm taking up the fight by fundraising again. And as always, I'm asking you to help. <br />
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In the past, when I've asked for your donations, I've offered various incentives - such as riding a mile for every dollar raised or putting your name on my bike or clothing. Parenthetically, I still have the bike shorts with Natalie's name on them. Anyway, this time is no exception.<br />
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First, I want you to look at your calendar and mark the Sunday after Father's day. Specifically, Sunday June 24th, 2012. That is the date of Pork-a-Palooza III. At Pork-a-Palooza II we smoked over 40 pounds of meat and we entertained dozens of guest. It is the event to start the summer season. The lad and I have hosted this event for two years in a row and next year promises to be even better. <br />
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So why am I talking about this, well I'll tell you. This year, to get a priority invitation to Pork-a-Palooza I'm asking that you sponsor me. That is, for every $50 donation you get to be on the Donor Guest list for the porcine event of the year. Very similar to the donor program that they run at Cal for preferred seating, you get preferred treatment at Pork-a-Palooza. <br />
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So here's the offer, sponsor me as I am fundraising again for Team in Training, and oh, by the way, I'm going to be riding through the dead of winter to train for the Solvang Century at the beginning of March. For your sponsorship, you get to be a preferred Donor Guest at Pork-a-Palooza III. <br />
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Sponsorship is simple - go to <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche">http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/solvang12/sasche</a><br />
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Thanks again and let's get started.<br />
<br />Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-12980195368505488532011-04-06T09:51:00.000-07:002011-04-06T09:51:23.659-07:00Black and TanThe Black and Tan promptly arrived at the table along with the chocolate milkshake that Rob ordered. We've been to <a href="http://www.fentonscreamery.com/">Fenton's</a> many times over the years and while I've enjoyed their Banana Specials and Saddleback Brownie sundaes, for me, the Black and Tan was always the best. I looked at the sundae and remembered.<br />
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Rob and I had made it a regular routine to have dinner once a week. Usually we were at <a href="http://www.hopyard.com/">the Hopyard</a> for Pint Night, but not this night. I had suggested we go to Fenton's when I got home from work. I didn't have to explain it or convince him; he knew why I had chosen this place. As soon as we arrived, the memories of countless visits started coming to mind. I introduced Sherri to Fenton's before we were married, 30 years ago. Rob mentioned that his first memory of Fenton's was his third birthday party and he remembered the train cake that mom had made for him. I remembered how Sherri would always order a sidecar of hot fudge with her sundae because she couldn't get enough chocolate. We remembered how Sherri would eat ice cream; her dish was always clean because she would treasure each spoonful. That's why we were there, to remember.<br />
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The interesting thing about memories is that you can't control what brings them on. It can be a song, a smell, a picture, a dessert, a comment, or any other random prompt. We chose Fenton's because we knew it would prompt good memories, warm memories, and that's what we wanted. Rob and I talked about the usual current happenings in our lives along with our recollections. I wasn't as talkative this night as I kept more to my thoughts. <br />
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I remembered the sound of her voice. I could hear her cheerful tone. I remembered her greeting on her cell phone, "Hi. This is Sherri..pause..um..I can't come to the phone right now, but leave a message and I'll call you back...pause...bye". You know, I listened to that answering machine message dozens of times over the past year. I would call, listen, hang up, and call again - sometimes 4 or 5 times in a row. Sometimes I'd leave a message, simply saying that I missed her. I remember every inflection of that message but the one that stands out the most was the last word - "bye". It was how she said it that stood out to me. She said it with haste and a downward inflection, as if she didn't like saying goodbye and wasn't really comfortable.<br />
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A year ago on Easter, Sherri said to me and Rob, "it was a perfect day". The juxtaposition of that day with the day that followed has been very hard for me to grasp. My friend Scott and I have discussed this and tried to rationalize it. I like his explanation that maybe she had taken us as far as she could and it was someone else's turn. He also said, "think how lucky you were to have that last perfect day. You got to share it with her. In a way, it was like her last gift to you."<br />
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As we finished our sundae and milkshake, I thought about that last day. As I paid the bill I remembered a funny incident when I paid the bill for our last breakfast on Easter morning a year ago. I laughed and told Rob the story of how I inadvertently gave our waiter $10 instead of $20 for a $15 bill and suavely told him to keep the change. Sherri and I laughed at my mistake and embarrassment; the waiter was quite understanding. Just another random memory prompted by a familiar experience; I consider myself lucky.<br />
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As Rob and I left Fenton's, I thought about how I could remember every moment of that final day Sherri and I were together. For a person that didn't know how to say goodbye, she said goodbye in the best way she could. I love her for that.<br />
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One year.<br />
SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-17451358048416776652010-12-22T09:02:00.000-08:002010-12-22T09:02:59.732-08:00Christmas Letter 2010<div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Well, let me just start by saying the obvious: this was not a good year. Okay, you knew that. I don't want to belabor the tragedy of this year and wear the cloak of grief again. I've worn that enough. I've worn it out. I hate that cloak. A new friend of mine told me that too often we try to rush through grief. I don't think I rushed through anything. My son and I can attest that there have been far too many difficult periods.<br />
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Rather, I want to dedicate this Christmas letter to thank the people that reached out and helped Rob and me this year. From the very moment that tragedy struck and Sherri was taken from us, friends, family and long lost acquaintances reached out to help. The outpouring has been and still is astounding.<br />
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To my parents, brother and sisters, nephews and nieces. You dropped everything and you came to sit through the vigil as we waited to hear about Sherri. I will never forget the compassion you showed to Rob, Emily and me that day and continue to show.<br />
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To my close friends Scott and Thao. You arrived as soon as you heard and you spent many evenings since just being there to listen. You have both shown unending kindness and love to me and my family.<br />
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Lori Reisfelt, I am truly lucky to have you as a friend and you've been an empathetic heart that helped me through the really tough times that few can appreciate. <br />
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Amy Bode and Jacqui Crist, thank you for mobilizing the Team in Training friends and being a source of sympathetic support.<br />
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Dave Holmes-Kinsella, you came to help immediately and you tried diligently to get me back to a new normal. Thanks for reaching out with the dinner invitations and the the bike rides. I will always remember the ride up Tunitas Creek and that moment I realized the significance of that place. You responded with quiet compassion.<br />
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To all the friends of Sherri, me and my family. When I saw the SRO crowd at the church at Sherri's service, I was astounded at the faces from many times and places. You honored the memory of Sherri beyond words.<br />
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To the friends that took me to lunch and dinner, just to check up on me, like Merla, Barb, Chris, Aaron, Denise, Peggy, it meant a lot then and now.<br />
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Tom Cary your empathy and prayers have been a source of peace.<br />
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Pastor Mark Wollan, your concern and support were genuine and heartfelt. You went beyond your role as a minister and took a personal interest in supporting our family. <br />
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Mike Sale, I appreciate your weekly calls and your continuous efforts to take my money on the golf course.<br />
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Molly Sims, Janet Brown and Kimberly Wycoff thank you for the diversions and getting me in touch with new friends and acquaintances.<br />
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There are many more to thank and if I didn't name you, please don't feel slighted and I appreciate every act and every kind word.</div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
The person that I owe the most to this year is my son, Robert. At least once a week we'd go out to dinner and we would talk about what our current experiences were. We would share how we were feeling and discuss the week ahead. We'd talk about Sherri. He doesn't realize that I can see her influence in him and it makes me proud of the son we raised. <br />
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This year Rob and I rode Foxy's Fall Century bicycle ride. At about mile 95, it struck me what I would miss. In the past when Rob and I would do a long ride like Foxy's, afterward I would tell Sherri how proud I had been watching him overcome the challenge of doing the ride. I would recount how he had no business finishing the ride but his own determination pushed him through. I told Rob this and that what I really missed, at that moment, was that sharing with Sherri. That ability to make new memories and share them, had been taken away. I wiped the tears from my weary eyes and we continued to ride in silence. Without saying a word, I knew he understood our loss and I knew he missed her too. </div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Despite the one overwhelming event, it was not entirely a bad year. There were many significant achievements too. At work my team received great kudos for pulling off a very successful customer conference. We generated more leads, reached more customers and executed more campaigns than any year prior. My son and I spent several Saturday afternoons cheering for the beloved Cal Bears football team, exhorting them to victory. While I didn't do the Death Ride, I successfully completed Solvang's Finest Century in November and, as I mentioned earlier, Rob and I completed Foxy's Fall Century in October. The highest point of the year was having the honor of being in my friends Scott and Thao's wedding. It was an exceptional moment from some exceptional friends.<br />
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</div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The outreach of support also had unexpected benefits. I was able to meet and create new friendships. I also connected with people that I hadn't seen in many years. Like finding a rare treasure, we were able to unwrap our friendships and make up for lost time.</div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</div><div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">In case you didn't know, Rob is an excellent writer. He's continuing his studies and is trying to get accepted into San Jose State next fall. If you know anyone in the CSU system, maybe you can put us in contact with them. Anyway, one of his works was selected as a finalist for the annual DVC writing awards for fiction. He got a job for the winter as a sound and light technician for the local church. His writing and his job allow him to express his boundless creativity. I've read his assignments and I'm still astounded by his use of metaphors and his ability to write evocatively. He's not limited to writing fiction, he's also written scripts for his friend Thomas's videos that are equally as enjoyable.<br />
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</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As the holidays are here, though I am reminded about the losses, we do survive. We push on and know that there are joys and treasures in places we least expect. At Christmas, in particular, I think about what we have. I have been blessed by a lifetime of memories, the compassion of my friends old and new and the love of my family. And for that, I am grateful.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Merry Christmas</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Steve</span>Steve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-68005246831789249452010-08-23T00:25:00.000-07:002010-08-23T00:25:15.280-07:00Hopyard NightsI've seen post traumatic stress syndrome. He sits across from me at the Hopyard Ale House in San Ramon at least once a week for the past 4 months. He makes very funny observations and he has very funny tales. I think most of the time he just laughs at my embarrassing behavior as I constantly misunderstand what the server is saying to me. He's engaging and very interesting to be with. But he also doesn't sleep and he has other serious manifestations of stress. I can't imagine the utter shock and convulsive agony it was to find her. I wished so much that it hadn't ever happened and I wish even more it hadn't happened to him. <br />
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We talk. We talk about plans. We come up with party ideas. We talk about his friends and his school plans. We talk about girls he likes. We talk about girls he should like. We talk about his writing; he is an excellent writer. We talk about current events and films we've seen. <br />
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We talk about Sherri. We work through it, ever slowly. This is something that we both realize needs good third-party advice; and he will get that.<br />
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I want to round the mark. In a sailboat race they travel to a predetermined waypoint that designates the farthest part of the course. They then round the mark and head to the finish. It's time for us to start the downhill run. When you see him or talk to him, let him know that you care.<br />
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SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23425384.post-61901562222581161162010-06-06T14:34:00.000-07:002010-06-06T14:34:35.636-07:00Stockholm SyndromeYou know, my last blog post was a very heartfelt, emotional catharsis and I expected my next post to get back to the observational absurdities that typically fill these updates. I'm not quite there yet. <br />
I literally cried every day for 6 weeks after Sherri passed away. Now I cry randomly. They say crying is good for the spirit because it helps you release the emotions They say you feel better. I'm not so sure. I do know that it's not every day, so I guess that's a sign that things are trending in the right direction.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJODlTenUgi7PWBQN4qg_FKoUVj9ao4VgALxmjyNSR-TeD205IK0AMefXyBua73gQZGq3MN3MsrwnmRRvxGOY_pxyf87qH9S86Jgju2j7Zzj2VqBN3xfM9oTSxNHAbkw8E-kVY/s1600/iphone_set+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJODlTenUgi7PWBQN4qg_FKoUVj9ao4VgALxmjyNSR-TeD205IK0AMefXyBua73gQZGq3MN3MsrwnmRRvxGOY_pxyf87qH9S86Jgju2j7Zzj2VqBN3xfM9oTSxNHAbkw8E-kVY/s200/iphone_set+006.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'm in Stockholm. That's Stockholm, as in capital of Sweden, not Stockton, as in the arm pit of California. Minor apologies to anyone from Stockton. It was sunny today, which is totally appropriate for a Sunday, and every Stockholmeo was outside taking in the sunshine like worms coming out after the rain. I had flown in this morning and after I checked into the hotel, I decided to take a walk around the center of the city. I walked for quite a while and I noticed that the overwhelming majority of groups of people were couples or couples with kids. At times I felt like the only person in Stockholm out by himself. I'd take consolation when I saw the occasional jogger and observe that they're by themselves so I'm not the only one. I walked out to an island, Grundevaldgarten or something like that; there was a bridge; that made it much easier to walk to it. I sat on a bench looking back at the center of the city and I took this picture. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yYW6CHRcqcE/TAwNaOangDI/AAAAAAAADgA/P-K8HJWrc_U/s1600/iphone_set+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yYW6CHRcqcE/TAwNaOangDI/AAAAAAAADgA/P-K8HJWrc_U/s320/iphone_set+005.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>As I sat on the bench, I started looking through the pictures in my iPhone and looked at pictures of Sherri. I came across this picture from a walk that we took on a sunny day in January this year. It was a day when we walked as a couple. Right then I was glad I was sitting at bench at the end of the island because the tears just started streaming down my face and I sure didn't want any well-meaning Stockholmeos trying to figure out what was wrong or reporting me to the police. I just wanted to hold her hand again and share the beauty of the day. I knew it would have made her happy and that would have made me happy.<br />
I re-realized something at that moment. For me, and I'm sure for many of you, it really is about other people. I mean the joy in life comes from the relationships. The more intimate those relationships become the more intense the joy becomes. Of course, there's risk with that. The loss of an intense relationship is much more painful. Some people will not engage in an intense relationship for fear of pain, fear of loss. Some people will withhold themselves out of self-protection. Not me. When that time comes again, when I'm ready to have that intense relationship, I'll throw myself once again into the breach. The joy will always far outweigh the pain.<br />
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Thanks for reading,<br />
SteveSteve Aschehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925770256397415499noreply@blogger.com2