Advice to Seniors to live longer

Wheels of Happiness

1.  Sleep well

2.  Move

3.  Let the sun touch your skin

4.   Re awaken your leg muscles

5.   Do yoga ang tai chi  (inner reawakening)

Met a politician from Region 3, learned later than he is an avid biker and did several Audax

Wheels of Happiness

Had a meeting this morning with a distinguished just elected (third termer though) provincial official of Region 3 province.  Learned that he is an avid biker; had both MTB and RB but now focuses on RB.   He did several Audax all ready.  He is SIL of my family doctor.  

You meet the best people on bikes

How to battle sarcopenia (muscle loss) as you age

Wheels of Happiness

There are conflicting advices:   one side says take it easy;  the others say take it hard.  Do hill climbs, do HIIT, do something harder than before.  I believe in the latter that is why lately I do short rides but do hill climbs.

So yesterday, I did hard hill climbs to Ynares blvd, quarry road and DOMSA.  (Thats on top of push ups, lunges and weight exercises.)

What do you think?

Some challenges posed by the recent concreting of road

Wheels of Happiness

Some 80 million were spent by DPWH in improving the drainage and road network at Carebi and Kalayaan.   Less problem with flooding.

However some challenges are facing the residents:

1.  MDiaz is now being used as pass through thorugh by vehicles going to  Edenville, Baytown since this is a shorter distance to the reroute;

2.  Tricycles find it convenient if coming from Kalayaan to do a short cut via 2nd street since there are no humpbs at our street.

It poses danger though to us residents since this a residential subdivision    Some forget that tricycles (or even big bikes) roar by and they could be hit and/or run over.  We advised vehicle owners to park their vehicles inside their lot to avoid being bumped or scratched

Unique birthday celebration of daughter at Barbaras in Gen Luna Intramuros

Wheels of Happiness

It was the birthday of the youngest daughter and she invited us, me and the clan (15 in all) to a dinner at Barbaras at Gen Luna St, in front of Plaza Luis (the courtyard of St. Agustine Church for a dinner celebration. 

It was buffet and pricey because there was a cultural show.  There were many foreigners, mostly AFAMs in attendance.  The venue was superb - an old Spanish type house with crystal chandelier.  The food was 90% Filipino:   paella, sinigang, papaitan, stewed vegetables with Bagoong, Filipino dessert.     And there was a cultural show:   tinikling, sayaw sa baso.  An audience participation was asked.  Our apo did the tinikling.  The dancers received generous tips from spectators.

We should have plenty  of occasions or venues where Filipino culture can be showcased to tourists like restos and tourist spots.   (Perhaps there are plenty but I have not been active in these spots)

It is a rare sight and experience for me.  For decades I have not seen a local cultural show.  I=

It was a night to remember.   Only at Barbaras.

Precautionary warning on return of covid 19 and other related viral infections

Wheels of Happiness

"Health is wealth.  As I took the public transportation today, this post wore face mask.   Because, friends warned me Covid maybe back.   Coupled with rising number in HK and Singapore:

     1.  Friends in the memorial business are noting rising number of deaths due to respiratory, pneumoniia

          like causes;

     2.  Diagnostic centers  are reporting positive csses of covid 19

     3.   N pox too

So be careful when in public places. Wear face masks in crowded places Social distncing, Handwashing. Get yourself a vaccinations vs covid 19.  

  The DOH may not want us to panic and/or re following orders not to mention report covid 19 again under this administrations. Nor spend again on vaccines

Went on a Jalajala ride with a kapadyak a Dr, usually at Domsa, riding on his MV

Wheels of Happiness

This post went with a Dr. kapadyak from DOMSA.  I met him yesterday and this post decided to visit it now, the day after our meeting.  There are other trips to be made and this project seem to be pending forever.  It was pending then, and pending now.

It is a huge estate and its intestate 33 hectares,   And we talk about the 3rd generation of heirs.

We went up higher this time to observe the overlooking portions, and one of its strength - being source of the potable water in the Barangay.   But we were about still 500 meters off, and there are summits still far away

Mango was being harvested (perhaps without their knowledge, and must be huge loss for the family)  There were forest trees growing and the soil seems to be suitable for agri forestry.   The most expensive tree seem to be growing here and we can have business of seedlings and seeds here.   The inputs for the project being conceptualized are here.  It looks more exciting.

We passed by Manang Rina at Bugarin and had snacks there.   The Dr and Manang Rina knew each other  Manang Rina was operated on for free by the companion of the good Dr. 

It was a great trip, ride on a Motor Vehicle.

Portion ng property nila naglandslide

Visited the Church of St. Francis de Asisi last Friday, as we did Laguna loop (in a car)

Wheels of Happiness

In the last leg of the Laguna loop (which we did in a vehicle we visited the bamboo church of Macamot of Binangonan, which had a grand plan of building a Cathedral.  We promised a big support in case we closed a project nearby.  Its parish priest Fr. Castillo celebrated his birthday last May 4.  This post felt obliged to help the church building vision even in a small way.   Over the last 4 decades in business, we helped at least 4 churches in their construction projects.   It was late almost 7 when we arrived at Macamot and we nearly did not recognize the goood Father.

We felt good doiing this.

Bamboo Church, Saint Francis de Assisi, Macamot Binangonan

Searched for MTB rider met at Manang Rina Willax for sculpture works

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Last Friday, this post searched for a biker from Longos Kalayaan for a possible sculpture contract.    We met him at 4pm Friday after a visit to a Calamba project.   He says he trained with the best in Angono and he has a group in Paete (the next town) who does sculpture work.  I hope he is one of the best

Met him at Manang Rinas resto at Bugarin about a year ago    He mentioned he does sculture. 

We have a pending project ast Calamba for a Christ the Redeemer (just like at Rio de Janeiro) 60 footer

Those car bike, MC accidents of loss of bike lanes pour cold water in cyclists enthusiasm, make them afraid

Wheels of Happiness

The publication of many pictures of accidents involving bikes and motor vehcles sow fear into the hearts of cyclists. Furthermore, the safety that used to be provided by bike lanes is gone;  most of them have become sharrows.  (Shared ROWs)

Even pros die from motor vehicle accidents.  And there are deaths in MV accidents where the passengers are protected by metals, how much more if it is between an all metal MV and a biker?  That is fear inspiring.

Ride safe friends, kapadyaks.

MC bike crash

Exercises to avoid for Seniors (and those that are recommended

Wheels of Happiness

The exercises to avoid for those over 60:   

1.  Running

2.  Heavy lifting

3.  Pylometric exercise (those that involve jumping)  

Exercises that are recommended:    

1.  Brisk walking

2   Balance exercises

3.  Light weights;   calisthenics    

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzwkU4xv2PI

Voted early did an antenna ride and met brother in law of real estate tycoon in the town

Wheels of Happiness

This post took advantage of the early voting for Seniors and after coffee, went up Antenna.  The last time I was there was on Maundy Thursday when there was ruckus for a fee for entering the vicinity.  There was none.  A portion of the road going up was under repair and had sand overlay which made pedalling up slippery.   Was I glad that going up was not that difficult.   There was a momentary tukod at the portion 20 per cent incline where I avoided another bike going downhilll at my lane.  Could not get on the bike again so I walked the final 20 meters of the incline.

At the summit, I was given free noodles by two bikers one of whom turned out to be companion for a property tripping at Calaca.  Mr. Ferdie Baracoro.  He is also the brother in law of top real estate tycoon in Angono.  Owner of the Jollibee commercial complex, an ice plant in their 40 hectare property near Laguna Lake.  

Non bike post - sports loved by the new Pope Leo XIV

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It was mentioned that he loves tennis and baseball, having grown at Chicago.  He also plays trombone (a la Glenn Miller) and  may have brought one to the Vatican

Visited Uncle who had an eye operation

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This post visited an uncle (he is 4 years older than me being the youngest among the brothers and sisters) who just had an eye operation (laser operation;   he got a new lens on his right eye)  I just wanted to know how he was doing and among other things  we talked about:

      1.   His association with a former mayor and son of big food manufacturing firm in Pamapanga;

      2.   A kababayan head of ABC in a city who was influential at SBMA

      3.   A kababayan who earlier did well at SBMA;

      4.   The 200 hectare of so property  that they could not touch in the said province

      5.   Business opportunity for a high value tree farming.   

He was happy2 that I visited him.    

Some products:

1.  Veteber oil and grass

2.  Ylang ylang fragrance

3.   Agar wood

4.   Elemi from Pili nuts

Ben is excited about the endemic plants in the Philippines.   Ylang ylang and veeber quality in Phil is good

Celeb rider of a Superbike not available for selfie

Wheels of Happiness

On my bike ride to DOMSA last April 30, 2025, Bike Cheal and wife saw a famous celebrity on a superbike.   They ran to have a selfie.  But unfortunately, they were not able to get him on time and he left.  He is a super celeb not wanting to connect with his fans

Another flat today

Wheels of Happiness

While others are basking in the glory of their lap victories, I had my share of back to back - flats.   I was able to replace the broken Vittoria tire with old edition of Continental.  However I got another flat at Mambog today.  And my plan to scale climbs vanished.  I saw Sec Noe again.  However, there was a vulanizing shop nearby and had the flat repaired for P30.00.  No need to walk 10 km.

Am awaiting my Chao Yang tires order from an electronic pllatform

Joseph Javiniar of Excellent Noodle scores double victory at 7th stage of Tour of Luzon

Wheels of Happiness

Joseph Javiniar (JJ) scores another victory at Tour of Luzon at its 7th stage from Lingayen to Labrador. ahead of Yellow Jersey holder Joo of Korea   Third was Marvin Corpus.   Corpus who was just behind 1:56 Joo, now faces 2 mins + lead of Joo.    Joseph scored a solo finish at the 5th stage Clark to Clark

Congratulations to the Excellent Noodles and Sir Alex Billan..

At the penultimate stage, Joo the Yellow Jersey maintains a 2+ minutes lead over Corpuz.  It was less than 2 minutes at the 6th stage (1:56).   Can Corpuz wrest the 2+ minuts lead of the Yellow Jeryse

Ean Cajucom of Victoria Sport scored a back to back victory earlier

Bashers abound saying that it was nauaght effort:  since Excellent Noodles and/Or JJ are nowhere in the top 3 classification, for GC and/or Team standing.

But a win is a win is a win and if you experience riding at that distance at this pace and temperature then you must realize how hard challenging it is to win.

Our riders deserve a congratulations:   To the winners and to the finishers.   Bravo Zulu.  Congrats

Joseph Bora Javiniar of Excellent Noodles rules 5th stage Clark to Clark of Tour of Luzon

Wheels of Happiness

Joseph Bora Javiniar of Excellent Noodles triumphed at the 5th stage 160 km Clark to Clark route.  He peeled off at the 5th km to finish of the 7 man breakaway group.

Joo of Korea continues to hold on to the yellow jersey with 4:30 advantage, 3 stages to go.  All he has to do is to maintain his 4:30 advantage over Oranza which he can comfortably hold on to what with the punishing pace throughout the race    PNSI meanwhile holds on to slim 30 lead over the 2nd place.

Respect and  congratulations to Excellent Noodles, to our Filipino riders, and the MPTC organizer, sponsor, much thanks.

Back to back victory by Ean Cajucom at the 4th stage of TOL

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Ean Cajucom of Victoria Sport won the 4th stage of TOL from Agoo to Clark for a back to back victory.   All ready only 99 riders remained;   some from Malaysia and Korean teams having quit;

The yellow jersey remained with the first day winner Korean

The pace of the TOL is significantly higher, as rider JPMorales noted.   

Filipino, Ean Cajucom wins Stage 3 of TOL finish at San Juan La Union; Korean still Yellow jersey holder

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A Filipino  Ean Cajucom of Victoria sports, this time won the  3rd stage of the TOL sponsored by MPTC, for the 123 km leg from Vigan to San Juan.   Finally Filipinos proved we are not push over in cycling.  

The Yellow Jersey is still held by first state winner the Korean.   Can Oranza, or other Filipino riders take the Yellow in the next stages?

Congrtatulations.  MABUHAY!!!!

Panalo PNSI sa team TT Stage 2 of TOL- Congratulations

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Stage 2 of TOL, team TT

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PNSI topped this stage.    Much better achievement for Pinoys this time.

How come a foreigner topped TOL; where did our teams fail?

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A foreigner, a Korean topped the  TOL first stage, quite surprising considering that this is our home territory.   The Korean ran the first stage at World Tour speed of 45 kph.   Did our teams prepare hard enough for the TOL.  Was it equipment,  (we have world class bikes available), physiology, motivation or training.

We could do better in the next laps.   

Also the media commentators:    kept repeating Chinese rider (eh Korean iyon)   Morales ang Morales eh si Oranza).   they should know the names of riders.   

Tour of Luzon begins today, Korean wins first stage

Wheels of Happiness

The Tour of Luzon started today from Paoay Ilocos Norte.   A Korean Dae Yae Jong won the first stage followed by Oranza.    Many thought it was JPMorales who was second;   the commentator I think erroneously mentioned Morales.    Well its just the first stage.  Many things can still change

Rode up again at Domsa; saw business opportunities

Wheels of Happiness

Practiced again at DOMSA.  This time the ride up was uninterrupted indicating my growing strength and endurance.   Saw again Pres Ruben, Rommel and some new faces;   two Villamayor cousins:   one sone of Sancho (brod of Inta) and son of Felix.  They were discussing a 30 hectare property in Jala2.    Is this a business opportunity.  I called up Inta, a former staffer and manager.  

Had a conversation too with former staff of Mercury.   

I hope this can be a good business deal

Recyclists Maws complete Samar Leyte Mindanao ride in 5 days

Wheels of Happiness

That is a big Wow.  May be they are doing 50 kph about 400 km per day.  Thats superhuman.   In 5 days they were all ready in Mindanao.  Typically many riders complete the epic journey in 14 days.

This is superhuman.   Sakalam.  Lodi   Jeff2, Alan, Netoy  an Gerry.  

Rode yesterday up to Km 57 for a 60 km ride, came home via Diversion

Wheels of Happiness

After a pause of 3 days (last ride was last Saturday) I rode 30 km one way for  a 60 km out and back ride and then came home via Diversion road in  Cardona.   Was happy with this achievement and probably contributed to my strength and longevity

Stay at home during Holy Week

Wheels of Happiness

Our olds had admonished us to stay at home during Holy Week -  JC is going to die and is dead and the Devil takes over.  Many of us including myself did not believe in this until 1.  I cut myself with a sharp bolo fashioning a toy on Holy Wednesday   2.  I crashed when my front wheel got caught in the drainage grating of a famous mall along Edsa, on Black Saturday, after biking from Baguio.   I had to be operated on a face on a generala anaesthesia spending 6 numbers.  It could have been fatal and m must have caused the worseing of tinnitus.

Of late, last Holy Week, a number of accidents took place -  multi collision, road accidents etc.

It may be coincidence but shit happens.   I prefer now to stay at home or do short distance rides.

RS take good care

Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis at age 88

Wheels of Happiness

This post joins the whole Christendom in mourning the loss of its head Pope Francis at age 88.  May His Holiness soul rest in peace.

Do not take shower at this hours - most dangerous for seniors

Wheels of Happiness

What is the dangerous time:    

4 to 8 am.   

Joined the procession on Good Friday; all that we and companion talked about was about biking

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Last Good Friday, I joined the Entierro procession to commemorate the interment of Jesus Christ after his death on the cross.

The nephew of Ms. owns and manages the image for the Penas (Penance) and was one of those given the T shirt to join the procession.  Unfortunately I did not see the message at DM at once.  I was still able to join the procession, 50% done.

However, the one who was beside me during the procession is an MTB rider and we did nothing but talk about our biking experiences for about 2 km of the procession.

I also met the widow of the late cousin who just died of diabetes last month, and a kababata who married the sister of JPE, a PMA yer and who retired a general.   He owns an image too.

Challenges from P80M road construction in our subdivision

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Challenges from just finiished road construction

About  P80M were reportedly spent by DPWH in new road construction in our subdivision.  The trouble is since traffic was rerouted due to on going drainage construction at Baytown,   So many MC and MVs pass at MDiaz going through Edenville, and Baytown.   And they run through these streets at more than safe speed making it risky to cross M Diaz and even at times streets near our houses.  But this is a residential subdivsiion where we are supposed to be safe and secure.

Not sure anymore

Eradicating old people smell - from 2 onenal

Wheels of Happiness

I am trying my best following some of the advice:

1.  Hydrate

2.  Sweat out for at least 30 minutes

3.  Take a bath often;

4.  Use bath gel 

5.  Replace bed sheet often 

6.  Scrub kili-kili, singit

Did urban biking today; a hot day

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This post tried riding to km 10 today at MM.   Surprisingly traffic was light, and not so hot.   I felt stronger as I negotiated the fly over at 36 x 15.   Formerly it was at 36 x 32.   So much better now.  

The only difficulty this post had was with an MC who overtook me from my right near an LTO testing center.  How could they be so unsafe?   And unmindful of traffic laws?

Have been climbing hills lately; practicing on strength

Wheels of Happiness

My climbs last week and this week are focussing on hills to practice  strength building:

1.  Sikatan Pitallo

2.   Antenna Hills

3.   DOMSA

4.   Cabrera.

Even at 73, still can do.  

End the "amoy lupa for seniors"

Wheels of Happiness

After watching several videos on this topic some of the advice are:

Internal;:

1.  Drink plenty of water.   You need to hydrate to expel the toxins and waste products in your body;

2.  Exercise and sweat for at least 30 minutes a day to expel waste products in your body.

External:

3.  Take a bath daily

4.  Invest in a loofah to scrub the hidden parts of your body:   groin, armpits

5.  Change your clothes often.

6.  Change your bedsheets and comforter weekly

7.  Use deodorant and body wash often.

8.  Gargele brush teeth gums often

The body smell has something to do with change in the composition of skin oil which now smells rancid.

Will not be rich blogging

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Many bloggers vloggers influencers make staggering amount of money pitching their posts.  But this post cant expect to be rich because it was  not the goal to enrich myself doing this.  I was simply doing this for fun and as a sort of log of life events.   

Many get rich by creating contents like:    green jokes, slapstick comedies,  showing wide expanse of flesh and many ladies show boobs and or peek into the origin of men.   Others delve on hot political issues of the day and they risk being bashed.  

I am sensitive to comments and cant live with bashers

I do not want to be employed too by the platforms as content creator.    

Allowed the owner of Villa Sophia at Montevideo to use adjoining lot as parking

Wheels of Happiness

Many small resorts for staycation mushroomed during the pandemic.   For the project we developed that is overlooking the Laguna Lake (it is a good fengshui) this post did not realize that there were that many resorts in that residential subudivion   (As many as twenty)

The owner of Villa Sophia contacted me via the former institutionn I used to work with for a decade.  He needed additional parking space for his resort.   He wanted buy the 400 sm beside his property.   He was willing to pay an exorbitant price for that.  At the same time this post did not want to lose that nice property.  The reason why his resort clicked is that it had such a prime location/vantage point

So why not just allow him to use the lot for a nominal fee.  The owner is an MD at a big and prestigious Medical Center in Pasig and is a gastroenterelogist

This post just charged him the Real Property Tax + % for the 400 sm or merely P10.00 sm.  It was a sweet deal for him

Climbed two hills yesterday - testing for health and endurance

Wheels of Happiness

Yesterday, climbed two hills:    Sikatan in Mahabang Parang and Antenna Hills.   What was surprising was despite that it was hot, the efforts seemed light.   

For Sikatan, going up to Pitallo at 34 -36t was continuous and there was no stopping.   This was on a road bike.  This post invites other riders to visit Sikatan and patronize this establishment  There were no customers when I biked there

For Antenna Hills, the plan was to go up only up to intersection of Aristorenas, then at the Church, then at the water tank and eventually ended up at the Antenna.   Many think that the road bike is inappropiate for hill climbs but this post did this well on a road bike.

This post feels very much accomplished for this climb

As temperature rises, so do tempers and cases of road rages

Wheels of Happiness

Since Sunday, the number of road rage seem to have been on epidemic proportion:   one lately at Masinag near Decathlon, the other a involving a baseball bat incident.   Thus be careful kapadyak hold yout termpers in check and be paciencio.

Some lessons in the Boso boso incident:

1.  Keep tempers in check;

2.  Be humble;  bikes should defer to motorcycle, motorcycle should bow to 4 wheels;

3.  Do not exage.  The allege victims were not sideswiped nor giniliran based on their own video;

4.  If the offenders have fled do not pursue nor challenge them anymore.   After all the alleged offender may not have meant no harm;

5.   Your vehicle (car, mc, road bike, mtb)  and your ego are not the same.   If na bangga or scratched  paciencia, you can touch the bike or your MV< MC up

6.  Always presume that the MV owners are armed and dangers.   Thats a caveat in US where everybody has the right to bear arms.  Do not presume that the other party does not have arms that are lethal.   They may be hidden in fanny sling bag, or even bike bag.   Reduce your bravery or braggadocio.  

7.  Dispose off firearms.  I did that decades ago.  Guns do not allow you to think and your impulse may get the better of you.   Guns have the devil with it and can cause you to take actions that you may regret later on and change the course of your life 180 degrees.  So be careful

Rode to Pasig this morning; great practice in city biking and heat training

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This post rode to Pasig MM and managed 17Km one way for total of 34 km.  Was to see ftf somebody at The Grove This was a great practice in riding amongst MC, riding in fumes and heavy traffic.   Traffic was heavy and you are always near danger - MC overtaking from your right;   near collision with vehicles head on or from behind.    

Its odd to see traffic at Highway 2000 being managed according to the whim of traffic enforcer.  They turned off the traffic light and waiting can be as long as 5 minutes.    And you inhale all the fumes

At this hour, the bike lanes are occupied by parked vehicles.  They still have not acquired parking areas for their new cars!

You experience3 one great advantage ie being able to overtake at least 60 vehicles in bike lane.  Some MV still respect bike lanes but in Pasig, vehicles:   public and private hog the bike lanes.   There are great practice for riding uphills going up Rizal Provincial Hospital and the flyovers.   Great hill climbs.

Rode up to DOMSA today on a road bike; practice makes climbs easier

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Rode up to DOMSA on a Road Bike ((Sworks with Wheeltop gs)   this morning.  This was much better ride than before.   It felt easier (maybe because thisi post shifted to the biggest cog early and rode less intensely) and because I am having more practice.    

I met Ruben, Nolite and cousin Rommel Unidad (he was on Colnago with Campy groupset) and several other familiar faces

As usual, the males made Maritess of people who were not here, and talked about ladies with diabetes.   

Biked longer yesterday up to Bugarin 80 km total

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This post biked longer yesterday being Sunday and biked up Bugarin.   Since the electronic group set automatically prevents cross chaining by dropping the chain ring to 34 once the rear cog is shifted to 17 and lower, the bike ride was relatively easier

It is to be noted that the Biak na Bato is being widened and the atmosphere at that portion of Halayhayin is much much better

Non bike post: Alex Eala of Phil def Swiatek of Poland, a grand slam winner in qtrfinals

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Alex Eala on her giant slaying journey has defeated a grand slam winner, ranked No 5 at Miami WTA Open.   Cnn she make to the finals?

Lets all pray.

Campaign for better eye health

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This video advertises a medication.   Most eye disorders arise from improper nutrition of eye and nerve cells connecting one another.   The retinal cells die because of this malnutrition.  Eye vision can be restored by proper nutrition and changes can be observed in as little as 4 weeks.   

Why dont we try  this?

Tips for restoring eye health

Another one bites the dust

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My compadre barkada just joined the Lord (or the lord of the Hell if you may) and another one bites the dust this week.  Daniel Concepcion.  He had stroke earlier.  

May his soul rest in peace

The demise of a compare/barkada leaves me a lone survivor

Wheels of Happiness

This post just learned last night the demise of a barkada, a compare, due to complications from diabetes.  He had sepsis from gangrenous foot.  I have the same chronic condition that has persisted for the last 3 decades but perhaps being held at bay by medication, exercise, diet and medication.

There were 4 of us as barkada in cycling when we were in HS.   The two others have gone ahead;   one from stroke due to too much drinking, the other one from diabetes, and the 3rd one also to diabetes. I am thankful to be survivor.  It is so sad though that I am alone as a senior  However, each one had their clan to manage and were not mindful of me during the last two decades.   They had not missed me

But delaying the action to have the wounds treated soon, did my compadre in.  This reminds me of the fraility of life, and how precarious our situation is when one is all ready senior and with pre existing condition.   One should feel blessed and thankful for each day we are alive. 

Let us give thanks

Declining number of cyclisits lately

Wheels of Happiness

We see lesser and lesser cyclists on the road lately.  Due to the following:

1.  Very hot weather.  40 C is common at 10:00 up to 4:00 pm.  Such hot conditions are dangerous to health and can cause strokes which can be lethal;

2.  Unsafe riding practices by motorized counterpart -  overtaking from the right, over speeding even in busy streets, 

3.  No more safety provided by bike lanes, which are in reality sharrows;

4.  Expensive parts and repairs.   (However, we see softening of prices for inventories that have not been bought. 

6  And lately crimes vs bikers in isolated places.  There are still many brigands (NPA, thieves robbers) in isolated areas.  One news  took place at Sitio Labahan in Angono.   This happens despite huge salaries and huge number of PNP personnel.

To protect yourself, to minimize danger, then you minimize bike outings.  

This post finally got the Wheeltop EDS TX shift to the large chain ring

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It has been a month since the said group set arrived.   And two weeks ago, while the GS was adjusted via apps by the mechanic to shift to the biggest cog 36t, it stopped shifting at the FD side to the lqrge chainring.   While it does not bother me in riding not to have the 50t, I am a little bit disappointed that the bn GS does not workk 100%.      Tried again the apps, but this post could not make the large chain ring work.   Reviewed again the manual and the apps.  It has to be mechanical issue.    The chain has to be 0.5 to 3 mm from the side of the FD cage.  

I tried to adjust the crank so that the chain ring would move inward.   Then reviewed again the adjustment of the C limiting screw of the FD assembly.   I tried to screw it in while in the small chain ring mode.     Then all of a sudden, the chain ring was inside the  cage by 2 - 3 mm.  And trieid to shift it and it worked.  Eureka.    PTL

Its a good buy after all.   

After nearly decade, filed with SSS for retirement benefits

Wheels of Happiness

My classmate Graciano de los Santos who worked at SSS Sta Lucia, and Joshua Noble, a kapadyak all volunteered to process my retirement benefits at SSS.  I demurred because they said, when you get the lump sum, you suddenly fall ill and enter into end of life situation.  That is a fearful scenario and there is always denying that would not happen to you.

And so finally, last Friday, we went to SSS to apply for the said end of job event, and to the bank, to open a remittance account.  May be after a month, I will get my lump sum.  What to do with this -  buy a Kespor Ti bike?  Ha6

Nearly collided crashed into MC rider overtaking from the right

Wheels of Happiness

As this post rode out yesterday, getting out of M Diaz, an MC following me suddenly overtook me -  AT THE RIGHT side, startling me, nearing colliding crashing into him as I was brining the bike to the edge of the road.   On a narrow 3 ft wide remaining section of the road, he accelerated and overtook me.

I thought, through my long years of driving a motor vehicle (licensed honest to goodness) it is illegal to overtake from the right.   And so I thought.

Am grateful, I did not meet an accident.   The guy must be told.   Lack of education, lack of knowledge of LTO law.  (How many drivers are like that?)

No driver available to drive the SAG vehicle, dream of reaching Mindanao via Samar and Leyte now unclear

Wheels of Happiness

I was initially tempted to join the Maws in their plan on April 16 - 22 to bike up to Davao via Samar Leyte, 4- 5 days max.  I plan to bring a support SAG vehicle a pick up to support our ride    The pick up would bring us to Matnog, do a roro to Allen Samar and tag along for two days at Samar Leyte, then two days in Mindanao.  However there are two problems:

    1.  No driver is available for the 5- 6 days journey;

    2.  The fuel system of the pick up, being electronic seems to be busted (a suction valve) and cant be driven 100%

Dream gone.   I said this to Gerry all ready.  My joining is doubtful

The problem with the Wheeltop not shifting at FD for large chain ring is mechanical; we thought it was apps

Wheels of Happiness

While the mechanic was able to fix the large cog not shifting, the shifting to the large chainring ensued.   However the signal then was weak and then decided that we defer the fixing of the problem.

However when we went to the apps, it said, the large guide must be 0.10 mm inside distance to the chain.  However the adjusting limit screw was to its limit.

Can increasing the length of the limit screw be the solution?  Let us see

Cheap electronic groupset is giving me and mechanic headaches.

Wheels of Happiness

#bikerides, #seniorrides, #biking, #seniorrides

It may not be the groupset itself but the apps.  Its hard to get the apps to work.  It asks for so many things and by the time you receive the verification code, they say it has expired.    And then  the adjustment.  The mechanics was able to make the rd climb to 36 t.  Now tinopak:   the fd works only on small chain ring.  Its only at 01 and wont shift to 02.  What the.....

Trigger finger exercises

Wheels of Happiness

The symptoms of trigger finger are:  locked fingers, (cant extend) or extended and cant bend.   It occurs because of over use of finger in braking on bikes, or climbing, or too much computer work.

One such colleague complained of such condition and said she could not bike for a month and may possibly undergo surgery.

This post experienced such, researched YT and followed the exercises recommended.  I do not have trigger finger anymore.       

All 3 bikes now functional: S works, Sava Ti, and Pinarello F10

Wheels of Happiness

Before, only the Ti was usable functional bike.  Pinarellos hood was ripped off after a dooring accident;   the Sworks SRAM changer was toast, as well as its rear tires whose side walls had puncture holes. 

For the Pinarello, this post had DIY make do solution for the rubber hood cover:   just wrapped old bike interior to make the feel on the right STI (brifter smoother and for aesthetic purpose), 

For the S works for the tire used super glue to bond the rubber patch on to the sidewalls.  Now am more confident that I will not get puncture as a I ride.  For the shifter, I bought an electronic changer for the the bike.  Though its not perfect, I can use most of the gears I need:  the front chainring, big and small, and the 36t large cog.   

Solved.  Now happy

New lease life for weak sidewalls of Vittoria

Wheels of Happiness

The bike mechanic this morning noticed the loose strips of rubber that lay loose on the side of the rear wheels of the bike.   He recommended that super glue be used to paste the rubber strip.  I bought a pack of 3 which cost me P29.00.   I used only one of them

The rubber strip stayed and am now confident that the tire will last say another 6 months (although Ii have orders for much cheaper Chao Yang, at 300+ wired vs the more expensive Vittoria at P3,000+

Biked this morning up to Morong KM 44, visited Mario Toledo to have the bike fixed - Wheeltop does not want to shift to 36t

Wheels of Happiness

This post biked this morning to Morong KM 44, near the New Municipal Building of Morong.   On the way, I discovered that there is a Bikol Ni Lugawan in Mambog Binangonan Rizal near the INC church.  That means, I have to bike just 10 km instead of 20 km+ to Lagundi Morong Rizal.

At Cardona a 60 ish MTB rider just past the municipal hall passed by and conversed regarding my destination and I said I am up to Morong only, and he said he is from Tanay.   I chased him and overtook him at Callahan and over the top he overtook me and chased him again from the exit arch and overtook him near the Bombongan crossing.  He inquired about my age and answered 73 and he said he is 59   So that is about 2 decades difference.   

I returned and then proceeded to my main destination a bike mechanic from Mambog Binangonan Rizal.  He lives at Crystal East Binangonan and arrived there at about 9 am.  He awoke at about 9:30   I went there to do a back job on the Wheeltop electronic GS that does not shift up to 36 t.  I need the 36 t to enable me to ride up steep hills like the ones going up Mambog.   There were 3 hills till Marios place and I only had 32t to manage the climb.  The first one was about 20% grade.

While waiting for Mario, I conversed with the regired Msgt from PA.  He was being massaged on account of neuropathy from diabetes and difficulty in standing   I learned that his wife just died  and may be he weas recovering from the grief.  We talked about same situation as I have.  Diabetic and growing weakness. I advised him to exercise some more and be happy.

As for the bike, Mario was able to make the gears go back to 36t.  But he needs to access the apps to smoothne out hte high gears.  

An unknown blogger, BA - TJ sent questions regarding seniors biking

Wheels of Happiness

An unknown blogger, netizen DM me 9 point questions regarding biking for seniors.  Though I do not know much about him, and the qurestions were straight forward, I answered him promptly.  I told him too that I was with Kara David in 400 km bike ride to Bicol

The questions center on benefits of biking, and how biking should be:

1.  Biking develops posture, you dont stoop or do duck walk;

2.  Better breathing 

3.  Long life

4.  Lesser maintenance medicine

5.  Being more positive, happier

6.  Having stronger bones.  

     The theory is that brittle bones is not caused solely by lack of Vit D and Calcium but by weaker muscles.   So you have to exercise if possible using weights.    Lifting weights develope muscles which makes bones stronger.

7.  Freedome from Sarcopenia.  As we age, our muscle mass depletes.  Only exercise can partially stop that or stop that.   

So bike more exercise more

More power to his web site...

Still debugging the Wheeltop EDS Tx gs ; it does not shift to 36t

Wheels of Happiness

I am on my third day after Mario installed the Wheeltop DS Tax.  Its not completely debugged.

There were two problems:    1.   It does not shift to the big chain ring, 2.  The RD does not shift to 36t (allegedly the biggest cog that it could accommodate.

When Mario installed this all gears were working.  However the cranks set got loose, the highest gear 11t was not working well, so I made adjustment to the RD (and then the 36t) does no work anymorel

I waited to get the apps to function but it was quirky.  I got the gears all smoothed out all right, but the 36t still not worked.   So I have to go back  to Mario because it looks like its mechanical. Just minor tweaks.

But I am happy over all with the way the bike works.  It gave me added confidence and added ommph.  Speed.   

Installed Whitetop EDS Tx electronic groupset

Wheels of Happiness

This post took advantage of the seller's platform at 50% discount, last 11.11 whose price was only P24,700.  Its US, UK price is at $600 -$700.  So it was a bargin.   The order arrived last Tuesday  And yesterday I had installed by Mario.   

The old STI a SRAM red had seen better days and it such a great pain to maintain it because of internal cabling (passing through the handlebar):   there are kinks and malfunction often occurs due to cabling problems.  Thisi gs does not have cabling for the GS  for brakes yes.

It is a source of pride to have an electronic GS for such a low price.  It gives you a feeling of having a new bike again and pride for finally being able to afford an electonic GS at incredibly low price.

I still have access the apps for some finer adjustments.

   

Recyclists maw on a one shot ride to Baguio; they left 6 pm today and expect to be at Baguio by 8 am tomorrow

Wheels of Happiness

Gerry told me that after the round Laguna tune up ride, they will do a one shot ride to Baguio today.  They will leave at 6 pm today and expect to be by Baguio city by 8 am.  They will get back by bus.

Godspeed and Ride Safe

Usyk, one of the most celebrated fighters of the modern times

Wheels of Happiness

He is now the undisputed unified heavy weight boxing champion of the world.  He methodically crushed his opponents, some of them by knockouts.   He has excellent footwwork, defense, body build and endurance, and is very scientific in the way he punches.  He loves to delight the boxing fans by showing his boxing prowess through out the fight.

He is the pride of Ukraine who togeher with Klitschov, brough their country to the boxing map of the world. Paradoxically Usyk employes the Russian style of boxing

What do you think.

Replaced the disc brake pads for the MTB; thought them to be all ready ultra thin, got the pads cheap

Wheels of Happiness

This post went back to Villamayor bike parts this noon, right after I arrived due to fallen crank arms due to loss of crank bolt.  I was quoted earlier P1,000 for finned pads (the one that is on the bike) each pair, and P350,00 for unfinned.   Fortunately I got a pair for P220.00.  Haggled some more but the seller said sagad na. Sor for two sets:  P440.00.  They are Shimano SLX pads

I immediately installed:   removed the old one which was think for the rear wheel but still good for the front.  

The difficulty lay in inserting the pads because they were thicker.  Thus we have to push back the piston of the caliper.  It had to be carefully done with plastic tire levers.   Or preferebly with the olde pads on.   There were some slight challenges in reinstallation.  But after few persuasion, I got the job done

Biked to Morong Km 46, 19 x 2 = 38 km, lost crank bolt, walked 3 km to Villamayor to buy a replacement

Wheels of Happiness

This post biked an equivalent bike last Tueday to The Grove last Tuesday  up to km 46 at Morong.  On the way back however at Grandspan, the left crank arm dropped indicating that I lost the crank bolt.  I tightened this yesterday as cleaned the bike.

I walked from Grandspan to Villamyor, a distance of 3km under the heat of the sun,   I could not get the bike to move; difficult to do a scooter type of riding, the rest of chain ring and crank may fall out.

The solution was a P70.00 crank bolt, (this post had only P60.00) Thankks Rommel.    What else could go wrong.   

Usyk, a symbol for his country's resistance to invaders.

Wheels of Happiness  

Olessandr Usyk could really be an inspiration for his country.  An epitome of how his countrymen fight their invaders.  Relentless, patient, accurate pinpointed attack   Watching the enemy for weakness, and then attacking the weak point:   the abdomen, the lack of defense.   There is also a careful and calculated move to avoid being hurt and fending off the opponent attack.   Magnificent  

We watch high level boxing being practiced by Usyk.  We have not seen such technical boxxing with US boxer and other division

He employs Soviet style of boxing  -  keeping distance avoiding being hurt

It is nice to see the ref, protect Huck from further damange from Usyk onslaught

Round Laguna yesterday, Baguio one shot ride on Saturday by Maws of Recyclists

Wheels of Happiness

Met Cataps today who told the story of their counterclockwise ride around Laguna Lake yesterday.  He told me that they ran pretty fast because by 10:00 am they were all ready at Pagsanjan and was home by 2:30.j  Wow thats fast.  Average of 25 to 30 kph.

On Saturday afternoon they will do a 270 km ride to Baguio one shot.  So that by Sunday morning they are in Baguio.  

He asked me to join.  Kaya pa raw.  

However I am wary of my age and health, and current state of my ankle.  I suspect gout.   

Ride safe recyclists

Increasing longevity of Filipinos

Wheels of Happiness

Philippines rank 21st in longevity at an average age of 72.  I have surpassed that boundary.   Tops is Japan with average longevity of 82.   That speaks well of our health care and concern for the seniors.

We however should be cautious about this because that means heavy burden on working class to pay retirement, pension of the seniors.

Other great fighters: Canelo Alvarez, Daniel Dubois, Oleksandr Usyk

Wheels of Happiness

Our preoccupation with our Philippine Great Manny "Pacman"  Pacquiao made us miss some of the great fighterss:

Canelo Alvarez - welterweight

Daniel Dubois -  heavyweight

Oleksandr Usyk heavyweight

They are strong, accurate hitters, and  have high ring IQ

This post afflicted with gout? or overstraining

Wheels of Happiness

Is my uric acid level high?   Do I have gout?

I still was able to bike this morning up to Morong.  But this PM, before I joined the services for the interment of Marisel Genavia, my right ankle ached and had to take a ride to the memorial park.  I could not walk well.  I dont remember having a trauma and injury at the right foot

It could have been due to any of the following causes:

1.  Overstraining with climb at diversion;

2.  Joining the funeral procession of wife of Pres Luis

3.   Gout due to elevated uric acid level.

But as of now am disabled:    cant walk nor bike.   Painful right foot

ARF- counsel for Director Daryl Yap

Wheels of Happiness

Head of PRBI Atty Raymond Fortun figured in the celeb news lately.  He was reported to be the counsel for Director Daryll Yap, the defendant in the Pepsi Paloma Sotto libel case.   Lately ARF has figured prominently in many controversial cases in the Philippine politics

Wife of Pres Luis Genavia, Recyclists Pres laid to rest today

Wheels of Happiness

This post joined the family of Recyclists Pres Luis Genavia in having his late wife laid to rest via cremation at Sympathy Crematorium.   Also present among the Recyclists witnessing the cremation were VM Jun Vic, and Sec Noe.

I learned that the mother of Marisel was the classmate of my sister Dr. Minda in the elementary.  She fainted inside the crematorium customer area .   

Pres Luis had to sell his bike to cover the massive medical expenses.

May she rest in peace.  

Joined the Recyclists in the wake of Marisel Genavia, wife of Pres. Luis

Wheels of Happiness

We joined our Prez celebrate the passage of soul of beloved Marisel Genavia who battled cancer of the colon.  She was 51.   

Among those who were with uus several hours ago were Danny Francisco, Tito Fabay, Smith Unidad, Peter Anonuevo, Exequiel Villadiego, Master de Leon, VM Jun Vic, Gerry Catapang, Richard Ang.

Ii was there about 5:45 and caught the service by Lay Minister.

May her sould rest in peace

Attended last night high school reunion (on a Monday? Yes)

Wheels of Happiness

I attended a reunion of HS schoolmate, class 68 of Rizal High School.  I did not attend many parties before.  This time due urging of text messages, I finally gave in.  And in December I looked for vehicle, a driver and what I planned to bring:    two bottles of wine for exchange gift, and Fried Itik for potluck.

The venue was in Bambang Pasig, only 7 km from my place (Google Map had a shortcut via Barkadahan bridge and Labao (base of Napindan bridge)

Out of 40 who signed up, only 33 came.   Mostly ladies.  Romy Manahan as usual was the caterer.

I sat with Boys of about 6 and had several bottles of beer.

After exchange gifts and sharing some food, the reunion ended.

One of the things we agreed was to aim for 15 more years (many are 73-74) and thus conversation shall focus on health, longevity food exercise and well being

My thanks to sir Rico Torres, formerly of SMB for heading this event

Rode up Quarry Road counter clockwise; now found it hard to ride up.

Wheels of Happiness

In order to burn the 3 bottles of beer I drunk last night in class reunion, I decided to ride up Quarry Road.  The last ride I had via this route was about two months ago.

I found it hard  to ride up and had to stop 3x which was unusual for me.  I was able to ride up continuously before.  The hills looked steep.  Still a lot of garbage dumped

There were no other bikers except me and Pablo.  Pablo was doing repeats and he was on his 7th when I saw him.  

Wemt down via Domsa by about 9:15 and there were no other bikers.

Just exercise for the seniors.

Wheels of Happiness

I met Ben yesterday.  He would visit Gerry C who went on an epic Journey to North Luzon with several others.  We both agreed that we are past that age all ready for adventure and extreme rides.  Its ok now just to walk and or go on short rides.

My ride mostly have been 20 km out and back  No drama, no heroics.  Just to sweat.  I am focusing on seated excercise

Am on my second day.

Oelexandr Usyk, new heavyweight champion of the world - inspiration for war weary Ukrainians, his first goal was football

Wheels of Happiness

He may be not as great as his namesake, but definitely one of the greatest in boxing.  Undefeated.  Like Holyfield

You may not believe it but his first love were football  and dancing    He has defeated Anthony Joshua twice and Tyson Fury.   

The only bright spot for Ukrainians who has been war torn for the last 1,000 days.   Hurrah for Ukraine and Usyk.

First sale principle, or digital rights? Right to repair controversy over farm tractors

Wheels of Happiness

A tractor manufacturing company and farmers reached a deal about right to repair.   Before farmers could not repair their tractor because of lack of access to parts number and codes for the tractors (just like in cars).   A repair of about $500 can cost $5,000 in the dealer just because it cant access the repair codes.

Farmers were up and arms and as you know it because of the first sale right.  When you buy something everything that is there is yours.   And you should be able to repair it.   Now companies in order to earn more invokes the "digital rights" Ie that the repair codes or codes running the car/machinery is theirs.   (It should be in the deed of sale)

GM says it owns all the cars its sells (dont sell just lease  - is GM still around hello?)

With record profits, probably the tractor company backed down, and also in the spirit of patriotism and oneness with the customer.

I saw a video on a buyer of a luxury car, who surrendered repairing a salvaged car, just because the manufacturer refused to lend him a source code for the car.   That is carrying the profit motive too far.  It wont be long before the manufacturer probably would be history.

How about bikes?  Do sellers maintain their rights over the bikes we bought?