Monday, March 23, 2015

“Eureka! The Four Elements Behind Every Great Invention”... a summary


 By Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
The Rotarian | December 2014

Real accomplishments are the result of observation, imagination, commitment, and discipline.
The first quality an inventor needs is observation.  All people think they’re observant, but there’s a huge difference between “seeing” and “being observant.” To be observant is to notice the small things, every detail and what each one means.  The main component of observation is curiosity, which is the desire to see more than the superficial.  Imagination is the second important characteristic of inventors, because it helps them see how they could apply whatever they’ve observed to serve a different purpose. Observation leads a person to say, “That’s interesting.” But imagination leads a person to think, “What if that interesting thing could also …?”  For inventors, commitment means not giving up in the face of many obstacles that appear between an observation and a practical use. For many of us it’s fun to do something as long as it’s easy.  But once that thing becomes more challenging, a lot of people abandon it.  Even after getting it wrong several thousand times, the successful inventor keeps coming back to try again – they are disciplined enough to see the prize in the distance. 

Friday, May 16, 2014

Crashing Tips

Thanks for sending this video along Alicia.  Here are some great tips on group riding, avoiding crashes, and in case of emergency-- how to crash "gracefully".



Monday, March 31, 2014

YES! YES! YES!

It’s that time of year again to detach your bike from the indoor trainer or pull it down from the hook hanging in the garage. Before you head out on the first ride of the season be sure to check out these past blog posts to make sure everything is still in check!

Also, be sure to bring your bike by the shop to make any minor adjustments to ensure your bike is good to go.  
If you don’t have time to visit the different blog posts here are a few tips for the early season riders:
1. It’s still cold out!  Remember to layer up and always give yourself the option to delayer or add layers.  There’s nothing worse than cold hands or feet during your ride!
2.  Hydrate!!!  Be sure to drink plenty of water even during the chilly spring morning rides.
3.  Drivers are still in "winter mode."  They (myself included) are still adjusting to cyclists back on the road.  Be sure to dress visible and ride predictably. 
4.  Roads are still a mess.  Keep your eyes out for soft sand, cracked pavement, and patches of ice. 
5. Update your ICE (In Case of Emergency) information in your phone, Road ID, or seat bag.  Information should include any medications you’re on, your identification info, and who to call if your injured/crashed.
Please add your thoughts and ideas!  I know I missed a ton of stuff but it’s a start and hopefully got everyone thinking about riding safely...