The waves crashed down on me. At the same time, I was being rolled like clothes in a washing machine. I was underwater and wasn’t sure which way to the surface. Fear rushed in as I was starting to run out of breath. I really didn’t realize how tired I was from all the paddling through the break, which made holding my breath so much harder. The crashing water was so heavy and violent injecting the strong feeling of helplessness. All I could do was submit and cling to the board knowing that the board would eventually find the surface, but would the board bring me to the surface before I ran out of breath?

   So many things flashed through my mind. The first thing was the simple fact that I was out there alone without a Bay Watch Life Guard on duty. Second, just minutes ago I was on the beach looking out at the ocean wondering if Jaws was waiting for me. Last but not lease, was the thought of drowning. It seems that number three was coming into existence.   

   I’ve always wanted to learn how to surf after watching several movies of dudes catching waves and explaining the feeling. When I arrived in San Diego near Mission Beach, I was already planning my week of surfing. It was winter so I knew the beaches wouldn’t be crowded especially in the cold of the morning.

  The first day as I was strolling the beach looking for a shop to rent a board and I saw a wave machine. I thought that it would be a good idea to try the machine before heading to the ocean. It turns out that, it was a great because there was somebody available to help and guide me on technique. As with most things, I picked it up really fast starting with the four jets (small wave - video below) for the first session. The second session they turn on all the jets to create a full wave with a     tunnel. During the second session I was able to stay in the tunnel for a few seconds before eating shit and being blown out the top. It was great because I learned how to move forward, back, and side to side on the water. I was feeling really confident after the second sessions, so I headed to the shop to rent a board.

    At the beach, I sat and watched a handful of surfers.  I watched this older gentleman paddle out, which seemed to take him fifteen minutes to get past the break and be able to sit on his board on calm waters. I’m sure that "paddle", "break", and "set" maybe foreign words to you but, they are the very definition of surfing.

   As he paddled out, I watched him “duck-dive” through the waves. I later found out from some surfers there are a few ways to negotiate the break.  I watched him stay on top of his board and seemingly push down and pop up on the other side of the wave. It looked really easy until I jumped on my board and started paddling out. Well, that shit half worked for me on a seven-foot board. I tried to duck-dive under the first three-foot wave only to find myself upside down being tossed around like a rag doll. As soon as I reached the surface, another wave hit me. In just a few seconds I was out of breath and was pushed back to where I could stand up.  I was full of saltwater and felt like I was hit by a truck.

   After I gather my composure, I noticed that a few guys were standing waiting not too far from me. It looked like they were waiting for something. I noticed that the waves started to separate a bit more. They both jumped on their boards and started to paddle out so I did the same. This time, I was much more stable and able to duck-dive. With the waves being a little bit more spaced, I was able to get passed the break. Still, it was a lot of work and at times I felt like I wasn’t moving forward no matter how hard I paddled. 

  It was so peaceful passed the roaring movement of the break. I could sit on my board and float. The beach felt like it was miles away, which started me thinking about Jaws lurking underneath this deep dark green water. It's funny how the love and peacefulness of floating would at the same time be interrupted briefly by shadows from the sun or possible movement under the surface of the water. The small chills of fear up my spine were outweighed by seemingly now  being part of the ocean. 

   However, I made a point to slowly move closer to the other surfers that seemed to be unbothered and just talking to one another. Once close enough, we exchanged pleasantries. I sat there and told them my story. They were really inviting. They gave me a bunch of information and stories about their first time. “Here comes a good set!” One of the guys pointed out. I didn’t see anything. “Get ready to paddle!” I laid down on my board. They were still sitting up looking. I really couldn’t see anything different, just some small rolling swells. “PADDLE!!!” yelled one of the guys I was floating near. I could feel the water rising underneath me so I paddled hard and fast towards the beach.

 The 4-foot wave swelled beneath my surfboard as I paddled. I could feel the momentum building with my board starting to move forward; I pushed up with my arms, and jumped up throwing my right foot forward, I was able to stabilize but felt awkward. FUCK YEAH!!!! I yelled. I was up on the board riding the wave. “JUMP OFF!!!” I heard someone yell in the distance so I jumped. I was on the board only a little more then a few seconds but it felt great.

   I paddled back out and waited for the other guys. It took a minute but I realized why they told me to jump. Its best not to ride the wave all the way to the beach to avoid paddling back out the entire distance. By jumping off early, you could turn and paddle a short distance so that you can catch a few more sets. Save your last set for the ride all the way to the beach.

 A week of surfing, bonfires, and making some new friends. I loved hearing all the stories of these guys chasing waves and living the nomad life. I know that I’m not ready to chase “Mavericks” but it wouldn’t take me long to gain enough experience to give it a go.

  I loved San Diego. The Gas Lamp district (not pictured) has an extremely fun night life. There are a ton of clubs and bars in walking distance. Also there are some really awesome places to ride bikes and catch the sunset. 

HOME

   The first morning of riding I bumped into Ernie of Outlaw Jeep Tours, Shawn, and Melissa. I have the best luck for meeting great people.  Being able to tag along with them for the first time on the "slrickrock" was perfect.  Ernie showed me what my UTV was capable of so that I could avoid many beginner mistakes. You can YouTube videos of people flipping and sliding off obstacles damaging their own and rented vehicles. I don’t have the money to pay my deductible. LOL  So, spending the afternoon with them was a great learning experience. I really loved Shawn and Melissa’s energy. I could not have been more fortunate to meet such a wonderful group.
 
       If you are ever in Moab Utah and are looking for a tour…  OUTLAW JEEP TOURS and ask for Ernie.

​    When I wasn’t riding my UTV I hiked and tried some beginner free climbing near the Poison Spyder trail.  I didn’t want to pay for a climbing tour but I highly recommend a tour. It was fun climbing up but extremely difficult coming down without proper equipment.
 
   Sunday I was able to catch a Barrel Run for Bucks event. It was amazing to watch those folks rip around that barrels on horses. I remember riding a horse in the Black Hills of South Dakota without a guide and almost killing myself when my horse decided to take off with me in two across a field. It takes so much skill and a great relationship with the horse to ride at that level.

​   When I wasn’t riding my UTV, I hiked and tried some beginner free climbing near the Poison Spyder trail.  I didn’t want to pay for a climbing tour, but I highly recommend a tour. It was fun climbing up but extremely difficult coming down without proper equipment.
 
   Sunday, I was able to catch a Barrel Run for Bucks event. It was amazing to watch those folks rip around those barrels on horses. I remember riding a horse in the Black Hills of South Dakota without a guide and almost killing myself when my horse decided to take off with me in two across a field. It takes so much skill and a great relationship with the horse to ride at that level.

 WILLIAMS / GRAND CANYON RAILWAY

   I came across this place heading North. I heard so much about the mountain bike trails and Historic Route 66. What I didn't know was Williams, Arizona offered so much more.  This place was named after William “Old Bill” Williams, an early day trapper.  William's history is best known as the center of the Sante Fe Rail Line, ranching and old lumber mills.

    This beautiful place still had much of its character from the past. As I drove down Route 66, I could imagine all the saloons, gambling halls, and brothels of an old frontier.  Today, Williams, AZ is home to the world famous Grand Canyon Railway and Resort, that takes a scenic journey to the Grand Canyon aboard a century old steam-powered rail line.  Watch the video below and take the trip with me aboard the Grand Canyon Railway to the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

The train came to an abrupt stop under gun fire in the middle of the wilderness. The bandits boarded the train and made off with all the souvenirs. 
​

   BEARIZONA
 If you love drive through zoos, you will really enjoy Bearizona Wildlife. Just a three-mile drive through the Ponderosa Pine Forest viewing several North American animals. I loved the bear and wolf sections. Both species seemed to be real friendly with my truck. 

 After the drive, there is a Fort with a 20 acre walk-thru area. You follow the paths through the Fort similar to a zoo. My favorite was the panther. I really felt sorry that all these beautiful and majestic animals had to be caged for their safety. 

  

  

  I have received many questions about how I stay in shape on the road, especially when I was racing mountain bikes. Hell yes!!!  It  is very difficult to stay in cycling shape. When traveling, you never know if you will have somewhere safe to cycle or even an available gym. Most RV parks don't have a gym like hotels, which forces me to be creative at times.

COMMITMENT
    The challenge with staying fit on the road is often due to not having the right mental attitude.  Let's face it; if you are not consistent while at home, You will make any excuse to miss a workout or eat healthy while you travel. 

​  Find a Gym - I use Google maps to search for gyms in the local area. You should be able to find a 24-hour fitness or local gym.  Call them before you arrive and ask if they offer a daily or weekly membership rate, or if they offer free trials. I personally try to stay away from the big name gyms and so should you unless you already have a membership. I have been very lucky with finding inexpensive gyms at most locations.  

  Gym Workout - The little secret to burning fat for me is going heavy in the gym with compound exercises. I usually break my workouts into three days: leg, chest/tris, and back/bis days.

 Example of Leg Day:

• Proper warmup and Stretching
• Leg Extensions
• Leg Curls
• Squats
• Weighted walking lunges
• Dead lifts
• Calf raises (three different exercises)

​

Workout – If I’m unable to find a gym, below is sample workout:

• Proper warmup and Stretching
• Push ups - (2x100)
• Pull ups - (4 x10 - alternating underhand close grip - overhand wide grip)
• Body weight squats - (4x30)
• Lunges / Walking lunges - (2x40)
• Jump rope (3x3 min (rest 30sec)
• Plank – (2x2min (rest 30sec)

 
As time permits I will make a few workout videos. Also in the future I will have guest trainers provide input.

  There’s no reason why you cannot complete a workout while traveling. You already know all the reasons why exercising is so freakin important.  It helps build muscle, make you stronger, and keep you healthier – it also helps ensure that the calories you consume are going towards building muscle and not getting stored as fat.

EATING LIKE IT’S A VACATION:
   
   Don’t let all the hard work and focus be lost when traveling. If you find yourself taking off an entire week or more from healthy eating, it will be extremely hard to get back on track. 
 
Try to keep things really simple: I focus mostly on consuming lean protein, eating vegetables, and minimizing my alcohol intake. I try my best to stay away from fried foods and starchy foods like white rice, white potatoes, bread, etc.

Keep the momentum going while traveling.  Don't worry too much about falling short; just know that you have options. For me, it will be extremely hard to get back on track. 
 
I would love to hear about your struggles with maintaining a workout and healthy eating while traveling?
 
Leave a comment below and help out other fellow travelers.  Also, there are a few items that I will get a percentage  from if you purchase. Ladies a friend of mine said these yoga pants are awesome and I must say they look good.  I personally have the copper compression and the ab wheel set. 

HOME

 EL PASO 

    It was great to meet up with Anthony aka Little Jin Grant. He gave me the best guided tour of El Paso.  He showed me the Franklin Mountains which has a beautiful panoramic view of the city and part of Mexico. He pointed out all the interesting buildings, the rio grande river, and a club owned by a cartel. After that we headed to the west side to venture into Fort Bliss where he served in the Army.  It was really good catching up with him because I have not seen him in over four years. 

 I didn't get to see any rattlesnakes. :-) I guess that's a good thing.

    YES THE ALAMO has a basement (You have to be a fan to understand). The Alamo was originally known as Misión San Antonio de Valero. It was founded in the 18th century as a Roman Catholic mission and fortress compound. Now it is a museum in the Alamo Plaza Historic District. "Remember the Alamo". The battle in 1836 and the documented soldiers that died there fighting for freedom Travis, Bowie,Crockett, and Esparza.

    I really loved reading all of the history. They do not allow pictures inside the Alamo structure so take your time while inside. In the courtyard they have live history displays of the games, guns, and everyday life. I learned how to play the dice game that was used in the Pirates of the Caribbean movie (side note - but fun). 

    Going during the week is highly recommended to avoid the crowd if you want to take your time reading the available displays.

      THE RIVER WALK  or Paseo del Rio is underneath the busy streets of the city. Its only a short distance from the Alamo. 

     I started my walk from La Villita (Little Village of San Antonio). It similar to the Riverwalk tucked away in the middle of the city wit shops and restaurants.

   You can enter the River walk for La Villita through the Arneson River Theatre. The grassy steps are a beautiful quiet place to stop and meditate before starting the long walk. 

   I believe that the river has paths and sidewalks for 15 miles which provide access to the museums, the King William Historic District, 300-year-old Spanish missions, hotels,  mall,  shops,  and restaurants. 

NIGHT TIME - The place is freakin gorgeous at night. I could not capture the lights in the trees, the boats strobe lights,  fountains, and restaurants. You have to see it in person.

      The National WWII Museum tells the story of American experience in the war that change the world in a very unique way. It tells of how we fought, how it was won, and what it means to us today. As you walk the through the many elaborate displays you learn the price of freedom. This museum like others are meant for you to be inspired to do my research. 

Tips:
    - Try several methods to purchase tickets:
        - Information desk $2 - $5 off
        - Tour Companies - Combine tours for better discounts 
    - PLAN TO STAY FOR 3+ HOURS

  The Dog Tag at the top of the picture is an interactive card. It gives you the opportunity to follow the story of individuals they have captured. It also allows you to revisit your journey later online via your registered tag.  You'll also find additional items selected by the curators which might be of interest. It is a great oral history from the time they boarded the train and headed off to war.  

     
​The movie ticket Beyond All Boundaries is a MUST SEE!!!!!... Tom Hanks narrates a 4D movie that is nothing short of incredible. Things drop down from the ceiling, fog effects, the chair movement, flashing lights across the audience, and most of all you don't require those glasses that cause me headaches. I recommend you try to watch the movie before entering the exhibits. It really tells the story and the museum is laid out similar to the progress of the movie.  

​WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!!!

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THANKS AGAIN and MORE TO COME!!!

​   This morning I woke up and if you have a breath of life, you see what I see -- the world has a few problems. It’s so easy to get distracted by all the different challenges we face. I wish I could say I feel sorry for humanity but I don’t. When you dig deep into the available information, you start to see a reoccurring theme.
 
  I started with scratching the surface of the “belief system” in my previous blog; this should lead you in all kinds of directions of research. I laid out a specific path in my notes for this next blog, but even this morning I wanted to change a few of the topics, especially with all the death that is occurring. Most of us react by saying, “How can I save the world” More on this later.
 
 









    Did you know in 1936 Anna Freud theorized and classified a number of defense mechanisms which appear in the works of Sigmund? Today, there are upwards of 30+ theories and classifications for defense mechanisms. Below are six of theories that are still used today that I found very interesting:
 

• Repression: when a feeling is hidden and forced from the consciousness to the unconscious because it is seen as socially unacceptable.

• Regression: falling back into an early state of mental/physical development seen as "less demanding and safer".

• Projection: possessing a feeling that is designed as socially unacceptable and instead of facing it, that feeling or "unconscious urge" is seen in the actions of other people.

• Reaction formation: acting the opposite way that the unconscious instructs a person to behave, "often exaggerated and obsessive". For example, if a wife is infatuated with a man who is not her husband, reaction formation may cause her to – rather than cheat – become obsessed with showing her husband signs of love and affection.

•  Sublimation: seen as the most acceptable of the mechanisms, an expression of anxiety in socially acceptable ways.

•  Rationalization:  cognitive distortion of "the facts" to make an event or an impulse less threatening.  We do it often enough on a fairly conscious level when we provide ourselves with excuses.  But for many people, with sensitive egos, making excuses comes so easy that they never are truly aware of it.  In other words, many of us are quite prepared to believe our lies.

 
 
   Once you dig into just a few of the defense mechanisms, you find that most of what you are seeing comes from your unconscious. The unconscious contains all sorts of significant and disturbing information that we try to keep out of awareness. Psychologists have theorized that the unconscious acts as a repository for all the primitive wishes and impulses.  It really starts to make sense why our reasoning has not evolved collectively.  All defense mechanisms are responses to anxiety and how the unconscious and consciousness handle the stresses of a social situation(s). Pick any life situation and try to find the theorized classification. You will start to see how bat shit crazy we all are collectively.
 
   So, pick one the many problems that have been around for decades and start saving the world. You will always find opposition to an agreeable fact because of a belief system supported by a defense mechanism.

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This morning I had a huge breakfast but knew I wanted to go swimming. I remember being told over and over again that I should wait 45 minutes to an hour or I would get a bad cramp and drown. All these years I would wait after eating before I swam. This time, I jumped right in the pool and started swimming. I swam 500 yards without any issues. I continued my workout for an additional 700 yards of intervals. To my surprise, I did not cramp and drown. When I returned to my RV, I did a little research on this belief. I found that there isn’t any proof that swimming immediately after eating causes cramps and more importantly doesn’t causes a cramp that would cause me to drown

  I’m going to write a series of blogs associated with theories and research about the mind. I urge you to do your own research because it is very important now more then ever. Just look at what is happening in America today. So let’s dig in with our “belief” system. The problem with most people isn’t so much their ignorance as knowing so many things that ain’t so.
​
  It’s really easy to question something like going swimming after eating but imagine trying to question a strong belief, something passed down by someone you trust, a parent, mentor, friend, family, group, etc. Beliefs shape the way we think and act. It is important that we accept that some, perhaps most, of our beliefs may be wrong. Another important thing to keep in mind is that your beliefs may have no relationship with/to reality.

  A belief is assuming something to be true. All beliefs are created by choice. Many times it is void of facts. A belief about a things existence is not the same as its existence. I believe that water is blue and in reality water is clear. Once your belief met reality you would start saying, “Water is clear”. There is no reason for you to believe. just state the fact. You can dig deeper into what is a “fact” and find that facts can be influenced by beliefs. You will see how this can make an infinite circle of discussion. I will discuss that in another blog.

 Mankind has been studying the human mind for hundreds of years. We are still a long way from understanding how we think. Most of our reasoning consists in finding arguments for going on believing as we already do. Historians can look back right now and see that many of the our popular beliefs are in most ways the same as centuries past, organized and collective nonsense.
  There was a line in “Men in Black” where Agent K said it best, “A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky, dangerous animals and you know it. Fifteen hundred years ago everyone knew the Earth was the center of the Universe. Five hundred years ago, everybody knew the Earth was flat, and fifteen minutes ago, you knew that humans were alone on this planet. Imagine what we will know tomorrow.”
​
 It’s hard for me to say at this point that beliefs are okay because many of us hang onto the unreasonable ones. We result to the many defense mechanisms when confronted with the challenge of those strong beliefs and how they have no relationship to reality.  This means that many of the most treasured beliefs may need to be discarded. I see belief as a disease and just like any health problem, it requires diagnosis.  The question is how do we collectively cure this disease.

edited by Vonda Smith