Music Challenge - Day 9

A song I can dance to?  This is tough seeing how I don't dance all that often, but I am going to take a few minutes and really rack my brain.

Green Day "Jesus of Suburbia" makes me want to get up and rock out.


It's good to be home, even if only for a few days before we're back on the road.  Time to move bleachers.  Blechh!!

L, N, & BD

Nine hours til I get to see Lindsay, Nathan, and Baby D.

Step on it Johnson (our bus driver)

Woooooooo

Losing Stinks; Music Maker; Movie; ETA

Long drives suck. Long drives after blowing a 3-run lead in the eighth inning to lose a series are worse.  That's what happened and can you guess the culprit?

Walks. Nine to be exact. Cost us a game we had no right losing. It sucks beyond sucking. I thought we'd come out and challenge hitters. Not the case - not yet anyway. Some freshman were thrown right into the fire. I think they learned a little about college baseball.

You gotta act like you're the man. Act as if. As with anything in life, if you're confident and can convince yourself you belong, you'll have success. Lessons hopefully learned.  We played well, walks undid us. Move on.

Got my Dre Beats on, rocking out. I'm trying to tune out the fact that losing can so easily be forgotten. I used to be pissed for a few hours at least before I cracked a joke or smile. It stung. It bothered me. Oh well, music is my outlet. Every Time I Die, Muse, Green Day, NIN, My Chemical Romance, Brad Paisley, Kid Cudi, Lil Wayne, and Eminem - they probably hate failure as much as I do.

Popped in a movie - Law Abiding Citizen - great flic. I'm keeping with the music, however, because I've seen it a few times. Besides, I don't feel like paying attention to anything.

As far as our ETA back in the Bronx - that's a mystery. We're supposed to be in Hagerstown, Maryland around 2:52am to change drivers. However far that is from NYC is anyones guess.  We might hit the morning rush hour over the George Washington Bridge. That would be a real kick in the pants.

I'm gonna go tune out to some music. One love bloggies.

Losing Sucks; Souvenir City; Team First

Losing...It never gets any easier. We had a good game going on (largely in part to them giving us two runs in the first inning on two errors) and then it happened. By it I mean the big inning.

Bases loaded, two outs, and a full count (we were down 4-3). Slider on the black to a lefty called ball four. 5-3. The pitch was there all game long, but somehow went away in a huge spot. Next guy singles to left to drive in two more, makes it 7-3. We get the third out and up we come in the top of the ninth.

There was no comeback today. Tough loss, any way you slice it 4-3 or 7-3 - an L is an L is an L.

Tomorrow we'll have another chance at winning a series. It's just frustrating when mental errors come back to hurt you, as was the case (to an extent) today.

Oh well, it's over and done with.

I am going to head on over to the Pro Shop and take a look around. Every road trip I go on I try to come back with something for Lindsay - magnets, dolphin candy dishes, candles - so hopefully this hole has a little something I can bring back. Dinner is a buffet style thing I set up through a local restaurant - very anxious to see how they do things down here. I'm looking forward to it. Team activities build good teams. I know some would rather go out with their parents, but team is team - we're here as a unit. Bonding time.

Shower time for me first. Be back later y'all. (that's as southern as I get)

Good Start

The Jaspers notched one in the win column on opening day for the first time since 2006, 11-6 over Western Carolina.

We hit, pitched well, and played OK defense - besides two dropped fly balls.

Walked a few too many (7) but only let up 6 hits.  Sophomore started, freshman followed, junior finished (threw 1 pitch).

It got interesting late (and cold once that sun went down) but we held on.

On the bus back to the hotel (we got Domino's and Wal-Mart) before I most certainly pass out from exhaustion. So tired and my head is beginning to hurt a bit.

May post later. May not. Love you all!

WCU

Here's our park for the next 3 games. Nice place. Let's get after it a little.

Game Day

It's time to see what we're made of. Game day is finally here. Only abnormal part of it is that we hit first, which is generally reserved for the home team. Oh well, we'll get to the park three hours early, hit, watch them hit, take some IO, and take to the bats at 4 pm for first pitch.

We are surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, but the lady at the front desk told me they were hills. Being from New York, they are most certainly mountains.

Our room's water faucets are backwards, so hot is cold and vice versa. Takes some getting used to.

I also have no 3G service but the hotel has wireless for free, so that's pretty good.

The weather is perfect, but who knows how it'll be at WCU, it is thirty minutes away. Not a cloud in the sky here though.

Time to suit up. I wish I was playing. Oh well, let's go Jaspers!

Location:Waynesville, NC

Traffic Woes

We are officially in the worst traffic jam I've ever seen in all my 29+ years on this planet.

We just watched Due Date in it's entirety. And only moved 3 miles. According to Harrisburg news, it was a three-car accident with one fatality. I was thinking something like that had to happen to create such a jam.

I think we're close to being out of it. Thoughts go out to the family who lost someone today.

I won't complain anymore because it could be way worse.

My hand still hurts, but that nasty blister I posted on DDP this morning has been drained by me. It was very gross but totally necessary. It was a little bigger an a quarter and was hard like a rock, and it was very uncomfortable to close my hand. But hey, at least I still have my hand. Besides, Lindsay digs my scars!

Location:Somewhere on I-81, Pennsylvania

Traffic = Not Cool

Watching "Due Date" whilst stuck in traffic. Miserable, miserable traffic. Literally, we've moved a quarter mile in 25 minutes.

Movie time.

On the Road

The journey has begun. Thirty-two people on a Coach USA bus headed down to North Carolina. Some have already begun annoying me by announcing every store front we pass - and we haven't even gotten out of the Bronx.

I just took down my roast beef, lettuce, onions, and a little mayonnaise. Pretty solid sandwich.

I took my migraine medicine so I don't get a banger on this trip. ETA is about fourteen hours from now. We have this driver for four hours before we need to switch out for a new guy. Coach USA drivers can only work 11 hour shifts, so a change is necessary.

I've got the 3G service going on in order to fulfill my blog quota. I know you're all so relieved.

I bought Inception, Due Date, and The Usual Suspects yesterday to help the time go by a little quicker. Gonna wait an hour or so to pop the first one in.

Have a great Thursday and I will be back later on - maybe around hour 8 or 9.

And I miss Lindsay and Nathan and Baby D. My family rules!

Cullowhee, NC Fun Facts

With our impending departure to North Carolina tomorrow at 1:30pm, I wanted to touch on some fun facts about Cullowhee, NC - our destination of choice.

Population (2000 census):  3,597
Area:  3.6 square miles
ZIP Code:  28723
Climate:  Because it's located in a thermal valley, the winter is generally pretty mild.  In the summer, temperatures can get into the 90's.
Points of Interest:  The town is located in the middle of the Nantahala National Forest - "Nantahala" is Cherokee for "Land of the Noonday Sun".  Sounds like a pretty good place to me.
Median Household Income:  $19,688 - I guess people who live in houses like this are royalty.
Stores:  Wal-Mart Superstore
Crime Rate:  Very low
Colleges/Universities:  Western Carolina University (Catamounts)

NBA in NY/NJ...

...has gotten a wee bit better in the past few days.  Still not enough to keep my attention, but hey, at least they're making headlines for something positive.

The Knicks got former one-year-wonder at Syracuse and Denver Nuggets star Carmelo Anthony as part of a 13-player deal.  Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony on the same team is a pretty lethal combination - but the same can be said for the Heat.  The Knicks lost almost 51% of their scoring in the trade - for one player.  Not such a great deal.

Today, the Nets - yes, the Nets - traded for point guard extraordinaire Deron Williams for two players and two draft picks.  That's a pretty good deal - 21 points per game and 9.7 assists per game?  This guy has been a premier point guard since he came into the league.  Now they just need some players to finish.

At least the NY/NJ basketball teams are making an attempt to get better.

Go NY Go NY Go!

Music Challenge - Day 8

A song I know all the words to.  Hmmmmm...  I pretend I know all the words regardless if I actually do or not.  I call it freestyling.

For lack of creativity right now, I will use Muse's "Uprising".

It's their first single off their latest album, Resistance.

Muse - "Uprising" (from the concert I went to at Nassau Coliseum in October)

It's a Miracle!!

In awesome college basketball news, Division III Caltech (California Institute of Technology) won it's first conference game in 26 years.

Judging by the look of the coach, it really doesn't surprise me all that much.

It was their first win in 310 conference games.  Their first win in Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Association play since January 23rd, 1985.

Good win coach, way to get the boys ready to rock on Senior Night.  At least they will be the first group of seniors in quite some time to have a tally in the win column of SCIAA play.

Coach of the Year?  I smell an upset.

Dear Kiss 105.3 KISS-FM (Ottawa)

Ottawa 105.3 - I understand one of your teams best and most well-liked players was traded to the home of country music, Nashville, but blaming Carrie Underwood for this trade is ludicrous - he moved bitch, get out the way.

By saying you're banning her songs on your station might have been a joke, but it's downright ridiculous.  I just scrolled through an on-air playlist and couldn't find one country song.  Needless to say, my wife and I will never be coming to Ottawa because she's a huge Carrie fan and you banning her music makes your city banned from our travels.

Maybe it is coincidental that he got traded to Nashville, where Carrie currently resides.  Why in the hell would they build a house in Ottawa if they planned all along to move to Nashville?  Maybe your team is just trying to clean house and start fresh, seeing how they are the second worst team in the NHL.  He was the leading goal scorer on your team? 

And you're blaming a country music star?  Get real.  Maybe the next step is getting rid of the arena in favor of playing on the Rideau Canal when it's frozen.

Oh yeah, and your radio station sucks!

"Genocide" Gadhafi

Just as the unrest in Egypt seems to have gone away, there is new problems - in the Middle East.  Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi says people cooperating with those stirring up trouble in his country will be executed.  This seems like it should be illegal, doesn't it?

There are helicopter gunships firing into crowds of protesters.  Can you imaging?  This is unreal.  Reagen said it best when he called Gadhafi the "Mad Dog of the Middle East".  This guy is a maniac.

Music Challenge - Day 7

A song that reminds me of a certain event?  This is a tricky one, but an easy one at the same time.

Since it is baseball season...when we take the field for infield/outfield prior to the game, we blast Guns N' Roses' "Welcome to the Jungle" over our bootleg PA system - an amp and two large speakers.  Axl Rose.  Slash.  Tracii Guns.  These guys rocked it out.

Guns N' Roses - "Welcome to the Jungle" reminds me of game day!

Duke #1; Syracuse Survives; My CR-V is En Route

Duke is #1 in the polls again, although people claim they aren't the best team in the nation.  Default #1.  Well, they're default-ly the #1 team in the land.  Sleep on it.

Syracuse pulled out a huge win in Philly against Villanova tonight.  We listened to it in the car on the way to the Bronx and the announcers were such homers it almost made it impossible to listen to.  They said one kid on Cuse was "4-6 from the field but really was 4-8 because he had two come back" - what the crap does that even mean?  Big win for the Orange.

My car is paid for for the first month but is still on a truck coming from Ohio.  Don't even get me started.  Pictures will post when it's in our possession.

Sleep tight evil-doers.

Music Challenge - Day 6

Today is Day 6 of the Music Challenge.  Thanks to MJ at Rantics & Curiosities and everyone's friend Jo at Your Friend Jo for trying out this Music Challenge thing.

Today I am supposed to pick a song that reminds me of somewhere.  Hmmmm...

Eric Church's "Livin' Part of Life" reminds me of St. Lucia - where we went on our honeymoon.  It's a great song that makes me think of the sun, sand, and sipping on some drinks. 


This guy is awesome - great songs, great live, seems like a cool dude. 

Duke #1?; Douche-ness; All-Star Slam; New Car Day; Snow?!?

Duke #1?
With the top four teams in the ranking all losing this week (#1 Kansas at K State, #2 Ohio St. at Purdue, #3 Texas at Nebraska, #4 Pitt at St. John's), is Duke the new #1 in America?

Based on a segment I saw on ESPN this morning, Duke is not the best team in America - in fact, the teams that lost this week all were mentioned - not Duke.  Which is fine, because I believe they are a good team but not the best team in the country.  They still have a chance to shock the world - a la 2009, when they won 18 of their last 19 en route to a National Championship.

Just saying.

Douche-ness
Although our ride in to work was a quick one today (it is only a little over a mile), I overheard a topic being talked about on Z100 - popped collars:  douchey or not douchey?

That was a fashion made famous back in 1902, when men and women often wore stiff collars when it was referred to as an "upturned collar".  I guess it went away for a while before reemerging as "popped collars" several years ago.  In any event, whenever I see a guy with a collar turned up, I immediately think he's a douche.  Call it judging a book by the cover, but often times, these individuals also have blowouts, fake tans, and all white sneakers on.  Jersey Shore-ish.  Pauly D, Vinny, Ronnie, and The Situation all can pull it off - that's who they are - but they don't even pop their collars - they wear t-shirts. 

So, to those of you who wear the collars popped as a fashion statement, you're a douche.  And to those who do it to keep the sun off their neck, you're misconstrued to being a douche - just wear sunblock!

All-Star Slam
Kobe took it right at LeBron on a fast break dunk, staring at the King before throwing it down just before it would have been blocked.  As soon as he landed, Kobe gave James a pat on the ass, as if to say "I got you sucka!"  The West won 148-145 in a game that featured stellar defense from bo...oh wait, this is the lamest All-Star game going.  It's basically a big game of pick-up basketball with big names going head to head to see who can fill up the highlight reel.

New Car Day
Well, today we'll head out to LI to a Honda dealer and pick up our new 2011 CR-V.  My father went out there yesterday, bargained with the guy, and called me to let me know to come get it today.  Going to see Anthony.  From what it seems, the EX model (the one we're getting) has 6-disc changer, tinted windows, sunroof, 17" wheels, air bags all over, and a black interior.  Very excited to pick up Lindsay's "Mom Mobile" - our first new car as a married couple.  Awesome.

Snow
And just when you thought it was over, down comes another 3+ inches of snow.  I woke up and thought it looked foggy - it was snowy.  Son of a bitch.  Wasn't it just 65° on Friday?  So much for this global warming crap.

Trending Now; THE Ohio St. Loses, Again; Duke at 7:45; Shower Success

Trending Now
As per my (randomly) recurring post topic, I will review the topics being trended  upon on BING.com. 

1. Daytona 500 - 500 mile NASCAR race.  Generally regarded as the race, the Daytona 500 is a long and grueling race.  It is close to being over, but I have not watched one lap of it.  Typically, I don't watch.  David Ragan is in the lead, but they're on Lap 204 of 200 since they're racing under a yellow flag (caution laps).  Stay tuned, unless you're me.

2. Blake Griffin - NBA star and Dunk Contest champion.  Last night was the Dunk Competition (which I did not watch) and Blake - a man-child - won it.  No one really doubted the fact that he'd win.  His last dunk was impressive, although everyone who watched said it wasn't his best - dude jumped over a car to dunk (a Kia).  If you haven't watched this guy or watched ESPN, it's time to check him out.  As much as I despise the NBA, this guy is gold.

3. Alex Pettyfer - English actor and model.  The "I Am Number Four" star apparently broke up with his girlfriend and co-star, Dianna Agron.  This guy might be a little fruity - just saying - it wouldn't surprise me.  That's enough about this shlep.

4. Brooke Ann Coats - Bullrider.  This is a sad story.  16-year old Brooke Ann Coats was thrown from a bull and kicked in the chest during a rodeo in Tampa, Florida.  She walked away from the scene, but later on had trouble breathing and collapsed.  Everyone involved understand the risk involved in bullriding - you're messing with a large, mean animal.  Here is a link to her GuestBook - I dropped a line on this.  No one deserves this.  Very unfortunate.  But if she was doing what she loved, I am sure she had no regrets.

That's the range of topics being searched.  Personally, I had only heard of two of the four prior to doing a little research for this post. 

THE Ohio St. Loses, Again
For the second time in three games, THE Ohio State University lost in men's hoops.  They were number one - briefly - and no one thought they could be caught in the Big Ten.  Purdue had other ideas.  They avenged their earlier 23-point loss to the Buckeyes in Columbus.  Ohio St. now holds a one game lead in the standings, over a hot-and-cold Purdue team.  They look like world beaters some days (read: at home) and others decide not to show up (read: on the road).  The Big Ten is a great conference, probably running second to the Big East.

Ohio St. finishes the season at home against Wisconsin.  Purdue has three of their last four on the road.  They had better learn to win away from Keady Court or they have no chance to win the Big Ten regular season.

Duke at 7:45
The Duke Blue Devils are home (and 20.5 point favorites) against Georgia Tech at 6:45 tonight.  GT is 11-14 overall and have only played one ranked team (at the time of the game), #9 Syracuse and only lost by four.  They had a pretty easy tune-up last game, beating Chattanooga by nine.

I am guessing Duke wins, but underestimates a Georgia Tech team that always seems to give them trouble.  Hopefully the Cameron Crazies get loud and crazy.  86-71 Duke.  Why not?

Shower Success
The baby shower yesterday was great.  Lindsay had an awesome time and based on the look of our apartment, this baby has more stuff than either one of us.  There's diaper cakes (diapers formed to look like a giant cake), a changing table I still have to assemble, a stroller, clothes, rattles, more clothes, bibs, socks, and a Diaper Genie II, among a lot of other things.  Nathan seems to be put off by all the gifts - I hope he isn't the jealous type.  If he is, he might find himself a new residence in LI with my parents.

Just wanted to thank everyone who attended (and those who didn't) for their generosity.  Baby D will never be short on stuff.

I'm done.  Going to help Lindsay get some of it away before the Duke game.

Music Challenge - Day 5

Pick a song that reminds you of someone.  Totally random, but when I was in Manchester CT playing summer ball back in 2001, this song was played non-stop by my teammate, James Morrison, from Mercer University.  We used to ride around in his  pickup truck and he pumped this song.  Kind of funny.  He was from Florida.
Trick Daddy - "I'm a Thug"

Trick Daddy - I'm A Thug (Official Music Video). Watch more top selected videos about: Trick Daddy

Music Challenge - Day 4; All Types of Showers

Day 4 of the Music Challenge requires a song that makes me sad.  This one is a no brainer for me - Eric Clapton's "Tears in Heaven".  It's a song about the tragic death of his four-year-old son.  Nuff said.
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven"


Once again, on a lighter note, there's showers all over the place (OK, just two).

Outside, the wind is howling and there's some snow showers coming from the skies.  It doesn't look like anything is going to accumulate, but it's damn cold out there.

The other shower is Lindsay's Baby Shower later on today - well at noon.  I plan on hanging with Nathan for a while before driving down to the restaurant.  It's downtown on 20th St., so the travel won't be terrible - West Side Highway down and then across town.  No problem.

Looking to leave here around 1:15 or so to catch the end of this thing.  We just got out of practice so I desperately need a shower and then I'll take Nathan out.

May have the family over here after the shower too.

Sounds like a pretty good Saturday ahead.  And the best part is I can sleep in tomorrow - practice is at 10:30 am.  FINALLY!!!

Peace and grease bloggies!

Music Challenge - Day 3; Jim Gray = Douche Bag

Today's song calls for one that makes me happy.  There are a lot of songs that make me happy, but I will choose one - our wedding song.

Brad Paisley's "Then".  Regardless of what I am doing (lifting, running, driving) - if "Then" comes on, I let it play, because it makes me think of our wedding day and that was a happy day (and a hell of a party).


In unrelated news, sports commentator Jim Gray is a douche bag.  He's had a history of getting into it with athletes or coaches (and in this instance, a caddy).  Beat it you little dweeby shitbag.

Baby-ing Up the Place

Scouring the internet to try and find a rug with a little sage green in it for the bedroom.  We need to start baby-ing the place up a bit.

April 14th is rapidly approaching and we are still trying to find some gender neutral stuff to decorate the "nursery" with.  This nursery is basically half of our bedroom, since we live in a one-bedroom apartment here in the Bronx.

The crib is all put together, courtesy of me.  The changing table should arrive today.  Both from Pottery Barn Kids.

Lindsay has her Baby Shower tomorrow afternoon, so we should fill up the rest of our apartment with baby stuff relatively quickly.  I am going to have to go through my closet and drawers and empty it out.  I guess all I need is a few pairs of jeans, some t-shirts, a few collared shirts, some shorts, underwear and socks, right?

OK, time to head to lunch.  It's early, but tonight is the MAAC Indoor Track & Field Championship at the Armory on 168th St.  It's a dreadful evening with my work study staff (aka: the baseball team).  Moving hurdles, raking sand pits, adjusting the pole vault and high jump bars.

Some Friday night I have planned.  SIKE!!

Game On

For those of you who follow because you're a fan of baseball, today marks the first day of games on the NCAA Baseball docket.

There are two games going on now, both in the Big East/Big Ten Challenge down in Florida.

Iowa at West Virginia (who we took 2 of 3 from last year in Morgantown)
Penn St. at Seton Hall (who we beat in South Orange last season)

We open up next weekend down in Cullowhee, NC at Western Carolina University.  They're a very good team - 37-21 a year ago.  Lots of stolen bases, so the pitchers need to pay attention, mix looks, vary times to the plate.  (Sorry to those of you who have no idea what the hell I am talking about)

Got a big paper delivery here.  Be back.

Music Challenge - Day 2

Your least favorite song?  I am going to have to go with any song by Sean Paul.  And I mean any song.  It pains me to even post a YouTube video of a song of his.

It's all "Seana Paul, brodda brodda" whatever the hell he says.  It just isn't for me.

For some reason, I can't even check out YouTube videos on this stupid Ubuntu thing. 

But anything by Sean Paul is my least favorite song.

Jers-day; Surprise

I still have to watch the episode of Jersey Shore from last week before I take to it tonight at 10 o'clock.  I am holpeful I am able to stay up tonight, but we do have another 6 am practice tomorrow.  Yuck.  Tomorrow, however, is one week until our first game down in Cullowhee, NC

I slept in a bit today, and am still at home.  As you know, this weekend (Friday to Monday), I spent approximately 50 hours in the gym, so I figured I needed to catch up on some much needed sleep.  Mission accomplished.

It's just me and Nathan hanging out.

I plan on going in at around 1:30 or so today to move some bleachers in the back so that recreation can go off without a hitch tonight.  Big games of basketball tonight for the civilian students.

On a lighter note, I got a text from Verizon this morning letting me know I am eligible for an upgrade - 7 months early!!  Pretty cool, not sure what I plan on doing  yet, but we all know I need a new phone.  If you recall, on January 12, I posted about wanting/needing a new used phone.  I got no help, so this text from Verizon was music to my ears.

I know they got the iPhone now, but I was checking out the Samsung Fascinate, and this thing looks pretty boss.  Gonna head to Central Ave. today to take a look at the Verizon store before I just order online on a whim.


Lindsay has a meeting with a guy they plan on hiring to help her in Academic Advising, and after that she's going to come pick me up to go to work.  For now, I will take Nathan out to the dog park to run with his peers.

Later on.

Demolition Draddy

Iona just left the building. It wasn't a pretty scene tonight after a 102-65 thrashing.

It almost looked like the Jaspers gave up. Iona played every possession like it mattered, and the outcome was indicative of that.  Manhattan kept letting up three after three and a few dunks too.  No one gave a hard foul. No one played with any fire.

Like anything else, I'll relate to baseball. If the first four guys up hit homeruns, that poor bastard hitting fifth is getting knocked down.

It's pride. It's playing for what matters, the name on your chest.  It's competing. It's toughness.

Lindsay is coming to get me, be back at it tomorrow. Later though, no 4:39 wake-up call.

NCAA College Hoops

Big slate tonight of college games.  I happen to be at Draddy Gym for the Iona/Manhattan game - 38-23 Iona in the first half.  Iona scores in bunches it seems, it was just a seven point game I thought.  I watched through the first two media timeouts.  For those unfamiliar with this, media timeouts take place in each half during the first stoppage after the 16-, 12-, 8, and 4-minute mark.  That is why on television, during games, there are at least four timeouts every half - even if there are no called team timeouts. 

Other action includes:

#5 Duke at Virginia - Duke up seven with just over three minutes to play in the first half.  Duke had to overcome a 31-25 halftime defecit the first time they played at Cameron Indoor - a 51-29 second half helped the Dukies coast.

#18 Vanderbilt at Georgia - Georgia is looking to pull an upset (only if you go by ranking) as they lead #18 Vandy 21-16 with a little over two minutes to go in half number one.  Georgia was actually favored in this one.  The Commodores took down UGA the first time they met, 73-66.

#16 Louisville at Cincinnati - This one is getting ugly, but it's not that surprising, as Cinci was a 2-point favorite going into tip-off.  We all know my feelings on Big East play - it's a bear.  This is the only meeting between these two teams this season. 

#9 Georgetown at #13 UCONN - This one was looking like a blowout early, as G'Town led by 10 midway through the first half, but Jim Calhoun (almost) always has his guys ready to scrap.  With 2:25 left, it's the Hoyas 34, the Huskies 31.

#10 Wisconsin at #11 Purdue - I know my man thormoo has his eyes on this Big Ten showdown.  With 14:48 to go in the game, the Boilers are up 44-34 on Wisco.  This was a 6-point Purdue lead at the half - they're looking to avenge their loss in Madison on February 1st. 

Time to unlock the locker rooms.  First, a quick update on this one.

Iona at Manhattan - 54-33 Iona.  They were laying 12.5 points coming in to this one, so this, I guess, is no surprise.  Manhattan played well against Siena last time out, and with Senior Day festivities, I figured they'd come out with a little more fire.  Iona does look pretty tough and athletic though.

Music Challenge Rules

I forgot to mention the rules to this here challenge.  It is a 30-day challenge.  Below are the day by day topics to post on.  Try it out, could be interesting.

 

Day 01 - your favorite song

Day 02 - your least favorite song

Day 03 - a song that makes you happy

Day 04 - a song that makes you sad

Day 05 - a song that reminds you of someone

Day 06 - a song that reminds you of somewhere

Day 07 - a song that reminds you of a certain event

Day 08 - a song that you know all the words to

Day 09 - a song that you can dance to

Day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep

Day 11 - a song from your favorite band

Day 12 - a song from a band you hate

Day 13 - a song that is a guilty pleasure

Day 14 - a song that no one would expect you to love

Day 15 - a song that describes you

Day 16 - a song that you used to love but now hate

Day 17 - a song that you hear often on the radio

Day 18 - a song that you wish you heard on the radio

Day 19 - a song from your favorite album

Day 20 - a song that you listen to when you’re angry

Day 21 - a song that you listen to when you’re happy

Day 22 - a song that you listen to when you’re sad

Day 23 - a song that you want to play at your wedding

Day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral

Day 25 - a song that makes you laugh

Day 26 - a song that you can play on an instrument

Day 27 - a song that you wish you could play

Day 28 - a song that makes you feel guilty

Day 29 - a song from your childhood

Day 30 - your favorite song at this time last year

Music Challenge - Day 1

My friend over at The Restaurant Managers Rant just posted a challenge.  It's a challenge that is right up my alley - music.  Hopefully I can keep up with all these daily/weekly installments I put forth.

Day 1:  Your Favorite Song


Muse - "Time Is Running Out" - off their 2003 Release Absolution


Enjoy!

Dear: Bacon

First, I want to thank the pigs.  Without them, none of this would be possible.

You make everything not only taste better, but smell better too. 

I enjoy chopping you in to little squares and throwing you in the frying pan for 6 to 7 minutes, taking you out and letting you rest on a bed of paper towels, and sporadically eating you piece by crunchy piece, before I use you as a topping to my dinner.

I enjoy the way you compliment two eggs, a slice of American cheese, and some dashes of hot sauce on a soft roll as a breakfast sandwich.

Hell, even Nathans favorite treat is shaped like little strips of bacon.

You are everything a food should be and I hope you never change.  (except for maybe lowering the price a little bit)

Thanks.  (and send free bacon)

Sincerely,

Ryan

Waxing Philosophical

As opening day of our season rapidly approaches, I want to take a little while to talk baseball.

I will try to relate it to life.

It's impossible to win every game.  That's fact.  But putting yourself in the best position to win is essential.  Doing the little things along the way often helps the path to the ultimate goal seem a little easier.  Set goals.  And from what I've heard, if you write out your goals, you've got a better chance of achieving them.  Sounds simple enough.

As coaches, we try to teach our guys the fundamentals as well as the minute details that go into creating a winning culture.  Some listen to what we've got to say and some don't.  We didn't write the book on baseball but we've got a little more experience.  Why not give it a try.  Why don't some guys listen?  There's a myriad of reasons.  They think they know it all.  They are stubborn.  They may not believe us.  They like to fail.  They have been brainwashed.  They are content.  They just aren't good enough.

When I was a player, I used to do things over and over and over again until it became comfortable to me.  That's a key - comfort. 

People often try to change because someone else says to do it this way or that way.  It all boils down to what is comfortable.  There are times when what is comfortable doesn't work.  If this is the case, you gotta change little by little until it does work and it is comfortable.  They say practice makes perfect - I say perfect is  impossible.  Practice and repetition sure does help though.

Attitude plays a big part in being successful as well.  Acting tough and being tough are two different animals.  How's the saying go?  When the going gets tough, the tough get going. 

Being tough means not closing yourself off and going into a hole and moping about a bad situation - it means living for this exact moment.  Accept responsibility and be accountable for your actions.  Want the ball, want the spotlight, want to be great. 

Wannabe leaders present a tough facade - they act outwardly tough - never smiling, tightening up in big spots, blaming others.  If you take yourself too seriously, you set yourself up for failure.  Sure, you want to be good and do well in whatever you set out to do, but in baseball, failing 7 times out of 10 is considered good.  That's pretty good odds.

What I'm trying to say is open your ears, listen, and don't be afraid to try something new.  If someone told me I smelled like complete shit every day, I'd look into my daily preparation.  Am I brushing my teeth?  Showering?  Wearing different clothes daily?  Changing my socks?  My underwear?  Putting on deodorant?  If I was skipping one of these, I'd probably try to correct it.  I need to want to smell better.  If someone who is trying to help offers up some advice, don't be too proud to listen.  Be open to suggestions. 

Don't over-think or over-analyze things - try it, try to change it (if it's broke), and embrace it.

There aren't too many people out there who try to give out shitty advice.  But if you happen to know someone who does, they're probably not worth your time.

And the bottom line is this:  YOU CAN'T BE AFRAID TO FAIL.  If you are, you'll forever be among the population of Loser-ville.  (unless you go bungee-jumping and fail, they you're dead)

Challenge yourself to be awesome-er than everyone else.  Be like Trina, she da baddest bitch.

WVU and Cuse; News Desk; Birthday Time

 WVU and Cuse
 Syracuse is locked up in a tight one with Bob "I Don't Do Suits" Huggins' Mountaineers at the Carrier Dome tonight.  West Virginia took a four point lead into the half, but a 17-5 run to start the second half has pushed the Orange back in front, 43-35 with 14:46 to play.

West Virginia seems to have brought their three game with them, connecting on seven of fourteen in the first half.

Syracuse looks like they got a little talking to in the locker room - their zone seems a lot better - oops, there's a three ball by WVU.  Spoke too soon.  Still up five.

Not much else on the slate tonight, besides newly anointed #1 Kansas' trip to Manhattan to take on the Wildcats of Kansas State.  KU is laying 6.5 on the road in a game that should have been played during Rivalry Week.

News Desk
Air Nakedness - On Saturday, during a flight from Chicago to New York, an emotionally disturbed woman stripped naked while cruising the friendly skies and created quite a ruckus.  She was taken to a Queens hospital but will not face criminal charges.  I guess she was a little too late on opting for the strip search.

Vick on Oprah - Michael Vick is going to Chicago - for an interview with Oprah - on February 24th.  They'll discuss his dog-fighting past and how he's trying to make amends.  Oprah had a bet with Piers Morgan that she'd land a one-on-one with Vick before "The Owl" Larry King.  I hope he pays her the 200 pounds and not pellets.

Tiger Spits on Green - I think a little too much is being made about Tiger Woods spitting on the green during the Dubai Desert Classic.  A breach of the tour code of conduct?  I guess maybe it's an unwritten rule, and since golf is such a proper sport (see: John Daly), how could he do such a thing.  Who gives a shit if he spit or not - a bigger deal should be made over the final round 75.

Birthday Time
Happy birthday to Super Bowl XXXVI Champion Drew Bledsoe, who turns 39 today.  The first pick of the 1993 NFL Draft out of Washington State, a once proud football program, put together quite a career.  He played for the Bills and Cowboys after his hey-day with the Patriots.  This is a guy who threw for 44,611 yards and 251 touchdowns.  The guy was a monster at 6'5" and 238 pounds.  After he retired, he founded a winery with Seattle Mariners IF Chone Figgins, called Doubleback Winery.  Happy birthday Drew!

Locked in my Basement

Just getting a little stir crazy here in the gym, and I found a golden oldie from Slim Shady:


Awesome!

iPad Ideas

Can anyone recommend any apps that I might find amusing, entertaining, and time-consuming for my 13 hour bus trip down to Cullowhee, NC next weekend?

I have a few games - Word Solitaire, Cover Orange, Words With Friends (rdarcy22), and Coin Dozer (highly addicting).

I also have the BlogPress app for keeping my blogger-backers updated.  I've got the NPR app and ESPN ScoreCenter.  I love the Adobe PhotoShop Express.

Any other ideas?  Preferably free apps or anything under $1 or $2.

Happy Valentine's Day

Just wanted to wish all the women out there a Happy Valentine's Day!  It is one of your favorite holidays, and why wouldn't it be?  The men in your lives are taught to buy you jewelry, candy, flowers or a combo of all four.  If we don't, we're banished to the dog house.  Unless you've got a cool ass wife like myself, who is fine with not exchanging gifts on this very Hallmark Holiday.

 I will briefly discuss some fun facts about Valentine's Day:

- Pope Gelasius declared February 14th St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D.
- 73% of flowers bought on Valentine's Day are purchased by men; women buy 23% - not sure where the other 4% go
- The red rose is the flower for love 
- Richard Cadbury, (yes, that Cadbury),  introduced the first box of chocolates in 1868 - this guy was way ahead of the times
- In the Middle Ages, men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their Valentine would be - I believe swingers still practice that method
- 3% of pet owners buy gifts for their pets - we are part of the 97% that don't
- Hallmark has over 1,330 different cards designed specifically for this day - 1,330!?!
- The Captain and Tennille were married on this day in 1974


That's enough facts about today.  Tell the one you love you love them, and try not to piss anyone off today.  Keep a smile on.

MUSE on the Grammy Awards; Cee-Lo Green is a Boss; Happy Valentine's Day

We went to J&J's for dinner - my parents came from LI - and when we were walking home, I got a text from a good friend:  "Ch. 2".  I know he isn't a huge fan of theirs, but he knows me well enough - I was walking home, missing the MUSE performance on the Grammy Awards.

Pissed as all hell, but coping quite well, I trudged home, and pulled up YouTube.

For those of you who saw it live on your television sets, I envy you.  Me?  I had to settle for a grainy version on the computer.  Shitty.

Here's the low-quality video I had to watch:


If I haven't stated it before, if and when MUSE comes around to a city remotely close to you, go see them.  It's money well spent and you will not regret a second of it.  Unreal live performance.  Take my word for it.

On a lighter note, I showered and got out just in time to catch the entire performance of "F*** You" by Cee-Lo featuring Gwyneth Paltrow and some Jim Henson puppets.  It was awesome, and he is a certified boss.  He dressed up as a peacock and played piano before a back-in-black Gwyneth Paltrow joined in.  I was couch dancing like a maniac.

Back to practice tomorrow morning at 6 am.  Early wake up.  Goodnight.

And a Happy Valentine's Day to everyone, especially my lovely wife and mom-to-be Lindsay!!

Absurd Spending

$450,000 for a fly-over at the Super Bowl even though the roof was closed to Jerry World?  Are you kidding me? 

I am all for patriotism and cool shit, but the price tag for this is a little absurd.  They showed the planes on the big screen - not so cool.

So not only were the commercials sub-par, the halftime show (from what every one is saying) sucked, and Christina Aguilera screwed up the anthem.  Seems like the only thing that went right was the Green and Yellow taking the title back to Title-town.

Draddy-ville

The Manhattan basketball team faces last years MAAC Champion Siena Saints today at 2 pm in the friendly confines of the Draddy Gym.  

I was speaking to the Siena staff yesterday for a while - good bunch of coaches on that staff. 

Their previous coach, Fran McCafferey, jumped ship to take the Iowa head job.  They're struggling a little bit, but so are the Saints this season.

On to the game...

#1 Stunner; Valentine's Day

#1 Stunner
Ohio St. went to Kohl Center to take on the Badgers.  They were rolling.  They were the only undefeated team left.  They came out strong and had a big lead early in the second half.

The Badgers, they were confident they could make a run.  And they did.  Undefeated no longer, Ohio St. saw their lead slip away and an undefeated season slip away, largely in part to Jordan Taylor's 27 point effort (21 of them in the 2nd half) in a 71-67 win. 

It was the first time since 1962 that Wisconsin had taken down #1.  The wait is over, and the students rushed the court in case anyone was unsure of the severity of this win.  Wisconsin can play (and beat) anyone in the country.  Their losses are all to quality teams - at UNLV, Notre Dame, at Illinois, at Michigan State, and at Penn State (who's beaten 3 of the top five Big 10 teams).

Now the big question is who'll move up to #1 - #2 Kansas or #3 Texas?  My vote is for Texas - they already beat Kansas and are the hottest team in the country (10 W's in a row).  Sure, Kansas only has 1 loss - to Texas.  Texas, Kansas, Pitt, Duke, Ohio State.  That's my Top 5.

Wisco heads to Boiler Country to take on #14 Purdue on Wednesday.  Ohio State looks to rebound against a reeling Michigan State (2-5 in last seven) team on Tuesday.

The Big Ten just got a whole lot more exciting - even though Ohio State still has a two game lead.

Valentine's Day
We've agreed that we're not exchanging gifts this year.  I am holding up my end of the deal - and although I've said that many times, I plan on sticking to it.  I can't even take her out to dinner because there's a basketball game here tomorrow at 7 pm.  Good planning. 

For all intents and purposes, it's a greeting card and flowers holiday.  If you really care about someone, there shouldn't be one day a year that requires you to show it more than the other 364 days.  And if you don't buy her jewels or flowers, you shouldn't be in the dog house (and if you do, you shouldn't be awarded brownie points).  I mean roses aren't even in season right now - spring is.  This holiday should be in May or June, not during the frigid month of February.

And if you do buy flowers, DO NOT get them at the gas station. 

Trending Now

According to our friends at BING.com, here's a peek at what the people want to find more about.  Kind of a weird group of topics.

1.  Aretha Franklin - American singer.  Apparently, the Queen of Soul was spotted in Detroit with Reverend Jesse Jackson for the Heat/Pistons game.  Didn't know she was a fan of hoops - but I guess every Queen needs a King.  In this case, it's King James, but I have a feeling she's not his type.

2. Dog show - Westminster Dog Show.  Every year around this time, the WDS comes to town looking to crown Best in Show.  Speaking of Best in Show, if you haven't seen the movie Best in Show, you should.  The movie is hilarious and I saw it even before I know of any dog show on television.  Give it a whirl - half.com is and buy it.  NOW!

3.  Maksim Gelman - Accused serial killer.  Early Friday morning, he went on a killing spree in Brooklyn.  Early this morning, after a city wide manhunt, this animal was finally caught.  He murdered his stepdad, killed his ex-girlfriend and her mother, and ran over a 60-year old.  Quite a busy day for this piece of shit. 

4.  Algeria - Country in North Africa.  Over 400 people were arrested at reform rally's even though they were heavily outnumbered by police.  A ban on public protests apparently led to this massive rally.  There have also been riots over high food prices, which led to three deaths.  Wacky stuff.

5.  Tonya_Harding - American figure skating champion.  Infamously known after her ex-husband's attack on Nancy Kerrigan in 1994, she's expecting a baby boy with her husband of 7 months Joseph Price.  Though she's probably out of skating shape (based solely on photos I've seen) and 40, I'm sure she'll grow in to a old cat lady eventually.  Or maybe she'll try the boxing thing out again - after her son's birth.  Good luck to the whole family.

I am dead tired, but I will post a photo later on on DDP.

Have a great day, I am going to wrap up this basketball game and take a little power nap before deciding on what to make for dinner. 

Naps are severely underrated, and it had been a while since I'd taken one before last weekend.

Happy Saturday!

Green (Bay Packers) and Yellow

If you haven't heard the original Black and Yellow by Wiz Khalifa, or the remake Lil Wayne made because he's a Packer Backer, you've missed the boat.  Here it is - with lyrics (which are both genius and hilarious):

Enjoy!

Saturday Checklist

- Wake up at 5:45 am - CHECK (barely)
- Baseball Practice
     Outside 7-8:30 - CHECK
     Inside 8:45-10 - CHECK
- Shower - TBD
- Lindsay Yoga Class 9-10:15am - CHECK
- Basketball Setup -CHECK
- Post to WRT - In Progress
- Basketball Game at 2pm - Pending
- Research more about QuiBids.com- Pending
- Follow the Top 25 games - Pending
- Break down basketball game - Pending
- Go home and take Nathan to dog park - Pending
- Take photo for Digital Darcy Photography - Pending
- Cook dinner - Pending
- Spend time with my lovely wife - Pending
- Pass out - TBD   

NCAA College Hoops

Tonight, in the Draddy Gymnasium, the Jaspers host the first place Fairfield Stags.  Fairfield escaped their home game with Manhattan with a 61-59 win.

Tonight, the Jaspers are looking for payback - and to knock off a solid team (18-5 overall) with their losses coming to Rutgers, Penn St., St. Joe's, Loyola (MD), and Rider.  They were supposed to travel to Florida in late December but the Post-Christmas Storm cancelled that trip.

The MAAC has a full slate tonight.  This one features the 11-2 Stags and the 2-11 Jaspers.  There's a whiteout here in the Draddy - they're handing out white t-shirts to whatever students decide to show up.  Free t-shirts typically bring out students in droves.

Whiteout City!!! 

Busy Friday

I thought the week was supposed to wind down towards Friday.  My week is ramping up.

Men's basketball tonight at 7 pm and Sunday at 2 pm.
Women's basketball game tomorrow at 2 pm and Monday at 7 pm.


It's going to be a hectic four days to say the least, but I will try my best to keep up with my other blog, Digital Darcy Photography.

WIPEOUT

WIPEOUT!

On now on Channel 7.  If you're funny, or simply like to laugh, turn this on.  NOW!

The Big Balls kick ass.

Guilty x 2

1
Right before the shower, I typically put my iPod on my iHome iP41 Alarm Clock and choose an artist to listen to.  I then turn it up, hit play, and proceed to rock out and sing in to the bar of soap as if it were a microphone.

I am not ashamed to admit it.  In fact, I don't care what you think.  It is liberating and makes me feel like a rock star.  Water goes everywhere, soap gets in my eyes, but I can care less, I'm belting it out and loving every minute of it.

Sometimes I don't even know the words but that doesn't stop me.  No.  Depending on the genre of music, it may turn me into a freestyling rap genius.   Hi hater!

2
The other thing I do (almost) every night happens during the first commercial break in Wheel of Fortune - lottery.  Yooooooolanda Vega is the regular, but sometimes she gets a night off.  I try to guess the numbers all the time - I'm lucky to get 1 or 2 correct.

I feel pretty good about myself when I'm able to guess randomly selected numbers - not good enough to spend too much money on lotto, but from time to time I'll partake in some scratch-off tickets.  I haven't bought any in a while though,  oh well.  Money saved is money earned.  (I think I just made that up)

Twitter-ific Jers-day

Jers-day
Brand new episode of Jersey Shore tonight at 10 pm.  Problem is, I'll probably watch a DVR'd version since we have early practice again tomorrow morning - 4:39 am wake up.  Anyone need a call to wake them up?  Didn't think so.

Then there's a basketball game tomorrow night at seven, so I will be in this gym from 5:15 am to 9:30 pm.  Don't hate.  Ha.  Looks like my Jersey Shore viewing will take place on Saturday or Sunday.

But who knows, maybe I'll suck it up and watch it love tonight.  My head is starting to hurt slightly.

Twitter-ific
For those of you who are so technologically advanced, Twitter is a great means of communicating, as well as a great way to follow celebrities.  It really is something to behold if you haven't checked it out already.

Me, I'm on there @RyanInTheBronx.  I follow a wide array of people, from musicians to celebrities to chefs to athletes and even some brands.  The people who follow me, some of them are bullshit advertisers looking to push a crappy website of some sort and some are friends of mine (only a few). 

Here's a list (and link) of some of the people/places/things I follow on Twitter.

Since it is Jers-day, I'll start there:

@VINNYGUADAGNINO - Funniest member of the Jersey Shore, hands down.  Always posts a lot, along with @DJPaulyD.

@KatyPerry - She always has some funny stuff to say and she posts a few times a day.  I am not afraid to admit I follow her.

@HowardStern - The King of All Media is new to Twitter, but he posts like a mad man.  And he's from Long Island (Roosevelt to be exact.  Rough area.  He was a Jewish kid from a predominantly AA neighborhood).

@tom_coliccho - Top Chef judge.  Awesome chef with an awesome restaurant in NYC.

@NYC_1_trains - In case I need to know if there are any delays in service.  Comes in handy.

@TRINArockstarr - She da baddest bitch!

@funnyordie - They always seem to have some pretty great one-liners.  If you need a laugh, go here.

@MJ_Pluss - Loyal member of my Blog Army.  She seems to me MIA since her trip to Vegas

@thormoo - Another loyal follower.  Links to his posts as well as witty comments.


@Huffy247  - Free Safety for the Oakland Raiders by way of UT.  First-round pick in 2006 (7th overall).  Racked up 95 tackles and 3 INT's this season.

@PauleyP - Pauley Perrette, otherwise known as Abby, from the CBS show @NCIS.  Awesome show - tune in if you're into the CSI, Criminal Minds and Law & Order type shows.

@THISISHELL - Kick ass band from Long Island, fronted by ex-HS classmate @TravisReilly who posts the crap out of it.

@dailyshoot - Neat site giving photographers ideas on things to shoot.  The only way to post to their site is through Twitter.  Good inspiration for budding photogs.

There's a list of some of the people I follow, maybe check them out yourself, if you're on Twitter.  If you aren't, maybe I've inspired you enough to check it out.  I was anti-Twitter for a while, but I've come to terms that it's a great form of social networking (via the computer).

I encourage you to still use your phones.  Do not use just the internet and e-mail to communicate.  You'll have no friends.  Loser!

I'm out this bitch!

Duke Survives; Rutgers Shocks Villanova; Forgetfulness

Duke Survives
I try to prevent myself from getting too excited about some things - namely Duke basketball.  To say I get angry is a fair assessment.  Last night, I became irate at how they were playing and flipped it off when they went into the half down 14 points to a North Carolina team that seemed to have as good an inside presence as anyone in the country. 

For most of the second half, I checked the score on my ESPN ScoreCenter app on the iPad and saw that they kept creeping closer and closer.  Finally, I gave in and turned it on in bed.  And lo and behold, they pulled out a win - an emotional, hard fought win over a bitter rival.  Nolan Smith threw his name in the hat for National Player of the Year honors after his 34-point outburst helped seal the Blue Devils 79-73 win.  On the other hand, Kyle Singler shot a dreadful 3-17 from the floor - he needs to pick it up.  He did hit 3 huge FT's in the closing minute.  On a lighter note, Seth Curry scored 22 points on 8 of 12 shooting.  In order to be successful, non-traditional stars have to step up - as Curry did.

Duke dropped a 50 spot on the Heels in the second half, and their traditionally strong defense showed up over the last twenty minutes.  Thirty-three in a row at home is a pretty impressive number.  Duke travels to Miami (FL) on Sunday and a UVa on Wednesday before returning home for a matchup with a mediocre Georgia Tech team.

Good win, now on to the next one.

Rutgers Shocks Villanova
A last second 4-point play (on a very questionable call) game Rutgers a home win over #10 Villanova.  I watched only the replay, and it looked like the defender put his arm straight up, but a foul was still called.  IT takes a lot of nuts for a referee to make that call in the closing seconds of a game.

Forgetfulness
A random student just came in to the "office" and asked if anyone found his sweatpants from last night - I wasn't even here. Keep in mind that my "office" is shared with the entire student-athlete population seeing how the equipment room is attached to my "office" and the laundry pick-up is in the back of my "office".  This is not my issue.

It has been bitter cold out here in the NY, especially at night.  How the hell do you forget to put your sweatpants on before you leave the gym.  Did you forget it's 15° outside?  I forget where I put things quite often, but if it's cold, I won't just walk outside in a pair of shorts.  I told him I hadn't seen them, and apologized (as if it were my fault).  Stupid.

I have to set up for some luncheon thing, and I'm probably not even invited.  Thanks.   

Syracuse Blew It; Duke Goes for #100

This was a great game for 38 minutes and then a defensive lapse by Scoop Jardine resulted in a quick 12-0 by Georgetown to close out the game and they're running out the clock.  Game over.  It's their first win at the Carrier Dome since 2002.  64-56.

Jardine put his head down and lost his man down the court and ultimately cost his team a chance at a big win at home.  Bad loss for the Orange.  Great win for the Hoyas.

On to UNC at Duke.  Duke is going for their 100th win in this historic series.  UNC leads 130-99.  Duke is going for their 3rd straight win in this series.  I'm juiced up for this one, they better come out ready to play. 

I have to put the TV on pause and go take Nathan out before I settle in for this one.  It's a battle for first place in the ACC heading into the second half of the conference season.

A young North Carolina has won 10 of their last 11.  Duke has great senior leadership with Singler and Smith.

Let's Go Duke!  Go To Hell Carolina, Go To Hell!!  It's AWESOME baby!!!

Dear: Lady Who Uses Elevator To Go One Flight

I've said it before and I'll say it again - USE THE STAIRS!!

Is it really necessary to use the elevator to travel up one flight of stairs?  If my math is correct, aren't floors roughly ten feet apart?

You got on the elevator on the first floor and didn't know where the button was for the second floor.  Are you blind?  And even if you are, there is braille on the numbers so you do know.  And if you're not, chances are it's somewhere near the bottom of the panel, just like every other elevator in the world.

And please, don't look up like you're surprised you're on the first floor when you get in.  You're not fooling anyone, especially me.

If you've got a disability, then fine, take the elevator one flight.  But if you willingly and ably walk in between those closing doors by the power of your own two legs, do not take it one flight.

Take after me - if I get on the elevator and another person is getting off a floor from where I'm going (especially if it's past my destination), I use the stairs. 

Here's the example:  Me and Joe Schmo get on on Floor 1.  He presses his destination, Floor 9, before I get to push my destination, Floor 8.  Instead of slowing down the process for Joe Schmo, I get off on Floor 9 and walk down a flight to Floor 8.  Painless, and I even got in some exercise.

I am not tooting my own horn, but laziness is killing this country.  Get off your ass (and the elevator) and walk up or down a flight.

And while I'm at it, tell your friend the "parking lot stalker" to park a little farther away and walk a few more steps.  It ain't gonna kill her.

Sloth is one of the seven deadly sins.

Have a great day.

Trending Now; Blue Bloods; Blue Fingers; Blasting Music

Trending Now
According to the world's favoritest search engine, BING.com, the following topics are the most trended for today.  Here we go...

1. Olivia Wilde - Actress and model.  So I guess she's going to be back on the market after divorcing her husband of eight years.  The story broke courtesy of "MTV News" - I mean that channel doesn't even play music anymore.  The TRON: Legacy actress is also a staple on House M.D.  Tao Ruspoli is a filmmaker and musician and a complete tool.

2. Cavaliers - NBA team.  The one time home team for LeBron James, the Cavs have fallen on some tough times lately.  They set a league record for futility by losing their 25th straight game Monday night, 99-96 to the Dallas Mavericks.  Antawn Jamison is the King of Shitsville, averaging a team-high 17.2 ppg.  He needs to average 37.2 ppg for them to be good.  Maybe their owner should look himself in the mirror.  I feel bad for the guys on the team, no one should have to go through this - but I guess their salaries aren't too bad.  Go Cavs!  Just get a win.

3. Selena Gomez - Actress, singer, and UNICEF Ambassador.  The #1 Belieber (even though they aren't an item) is starring in the upcoming film "13 Reasons Why", which will be her first leading role.  She's a Disney star I guess, but all I ever see is her hanging on Bieber's coattails (and his hair) or making out with the little guy.  No shocker here - MTV reported this story as well.

4. High-Speed Rail - Passenger rail transport system.  Apparently, Obama plans on spending $53B for a national high-speed rail network, according to several reports.  In his January State of the Union address, he announced his goal of providing said rail for 80% of Americans withing 25 years.  Good luck with that one Barack.  I am guessing this is sort of an Amtrak thing, but faster.  Cool idea.

5.  Scientology - A "new" religion.  Apparently, they're being investigated for human trafficking.  Couch-jumping Tom Cruise is a member, as is fat/not-fat/fat Kirstie Alley.  The basic belief of this religion is that man is far more than a product of his environment, or his genes.  I don't really care, so I'll end it at that.  Human trafficking.  Very illegal.  As is couch-jumping.

The five points above will surely make that long ride in an elevator with a stranger more pleasant - at least you can spout off a few ice-breakers.  And if you don't like elevators, just start talking to a stranger about one of these things.

Blue Bloods
Tonight is UNC vs. Duke.  The rivalry in college basketball.  If you're a fan of college hoops, you watch this one even if you can't stand either team.  I get to sleep in tomorrow since we have a mandatory day off, so I hope I can make it through the game.  As an appetizer, Syracuse hosts Georgetown in another great game at 7 pm, I'm guessing on ESPN.

Watch these games, for the love of sport.

Blue Fingers
That's what you'll have if you stay outside in this brutal cold for too long.  I walked in this morning and kept my hands in my pockets the entire time, but they were still freezing cold when I got here.  I ran them under hot water, which some say is a bad idea, but for me, it was the only idea.  Frostbite felt like it was about to set in.  And living by the Hudson River doesn't help - the wind rips off that sucker and funnels into the back of our building.  Global warming my ass!

Blasting Music
Had a pretty good workout this morning and the playlist was quite random, as the shuffle feature would indicate.  Here's a rundown, with links, of the 8 songs that got me through my morning routine:

1. Muse - "Resistance"
2. Nine Inch Nails - "Into The Void"
3. Kid Cudi - "Down & Out "
4. Brand New - "Sowing Season"
5. Every Time I Die - "Apocalypse Now and Then"
6. This is Hell - "Destroyer"
7. Cancer Bats - "Raised Right"
8. glassjaw - "When One Eight Becomes Two Zeros"

If that doesn't pump you up, go back to sleep.

My Wednesday feature is coming later on, but for the time being, like the Terminator said, I'll be back!

Boilers Win; Vols/Cats Get it Going; Wind Storm in the BX

Purdue
Purdue shot a lot of free throws.  Indiana did not.  Purdue coasted to an easy victory over Indiana, 67-53.

They held the Hoosiers to 33% from the floor, including 2-14 from three (that's 14%), and 7-7 from the stripe.  Hard to win when you get out-shot by 21 free throw attempts.  Purdue managed only 38% from the floor, 4-14 from three, and 21 of 28 at the stripe. 

The line was Purdue (-14) and wound up +14 at the line and +14 for the game. 

There was the difference right there.  Purdue held on and will probably not benefit in the polls unless the teams ahead of them lose - after all, Indiana is under .500 (12-13, 3-9 Big Ten). 

Purdue got this Rivalry Week win but head to Hoosierville February 23rd.  Indiana will be sure to have payback on their mind.  Spoiler alert?

Tennessee/Kentucky
Tennessee and Kentucky are in the early stages of this one, 15:58 and the first media timeout.  5-5.  Boooooring!  Both teams are too tight but once they loosen up, it's on.  Coach Cal will get these boys rolling.  Bruce Pearl will sweat through his orange blazer.  Just flipped on the game - 14-7 now and Pearl's blazer is as hideous as ever.  Maybe I'll see him when we head down there in March so I can tell him it looks terrible on television.

Wind Storm
There is some sort of wind storm going on here in the Bronx.  It's been howling since this afternoon and it's a frigid wind.  I guess it could be worse, it could be snow.  I have to take Nathan out one more time, probably in 2 minutes, and then it's bed time.  Another early practice tomorrow. 

I am going to bring my Flip Video one of these days and record a walk in and post it here.  It's a dark, scary walk in at 4:45 am.  Hold me to it - I will even add commentary as I walk.

Later dudes and dudettes!  Hang 10! (I have never surfed in my life)

Rivalry Week; Prep Work; Recovery

Now that the Super Bowl is over, what can a sports fan look forward to next?  How about some NCAA College Basketball - especially this week.

Rivalry Week.

Indiana at Purdue - tonight at 7 pm.  (On paper, it's thormoo's Boilers all the way, but factor in the hate factor for the Hoosiers and it may stay a game for a little while.)

Tennessee at Kentucky - tonight at 9 pm.  (Kentucky's coming off a tough L at Florida.  Bruce Pearl is back on the bench for Tennessee.  This one won't be short on offense - loads of points.)

Georgetown at Syracuse - tomorrow at 7 pm.  (The Orange seem to be back on track after two big road wins.  G'Town has won 6 straight, including a W at Villanova.  Typical bloodbath in the Big East.)

Texas at Oklahoma - tomorrow at 7 pm.  (Texas has a W in 8 straight including 4 vs. Top 15 teams.  The Sooners are mediocre at 12-10, but 11-1 at home.  This one has some intrigue.)

North Carolina at Duke - tomorrow at 9 pm.  (UNC is ranked and relevant.  Duke is coming off a demolition of NC State.  The best rivalry in college basketball gets better.)

Some other matchups:  BYU at Air Force (Wednesday at 10 pm); Florida at South Carolina (Wednesday at 8 pm); and St. Mary's at Santa Clara (Thursday at 11 pm);

This is always one of my favorite weeks, even though I have no ties to any of these schools.  Duke is the team I root for but some of these other games might catch my attention.

As far as prep work goes, I just ordered a car charger for my iPad for the grueling 12 hour bus trips later this month into early March.  I can't see my iPad lasting that long, now when I am on the 3G playing games, sending e-mails, listening to music, and maybe even watching the occasional movie.

We head to Western Carolina (in Cullowhee, NC); Winthrop (in Rock Hill, SC), Tennessee (in Knoxville, TN), Philadelphia (which is only a few hours), then finally to East Tennessee State (in Johnson City, TN).  Quite a bit of travel going on.  At least I'm beginning to get ready for it, or at least that's what I'm telling myself.

As far as my health is concerned, and I'm sure my entire Blog Army was concerned, I feel I'm working at about 95% today.  Yesterday it felt like my body just didn't want me to do anything.  I felt weak and light-headed and had a migraine.  I was pretty useless for anything but sleep.  Today I woke up at 4:39 am and was ready to go.

I even did some running today - 1.5 miles in a shade over 12 minutes.

Stay tuned!

Headache-ing

Since I have a pounding migraine today, probably due to lack of sleep and too much time at the gym (read: work), I am going to post this on both blogs. If I feel better, more will follow later. For now, me and Nathan are gonna nap for a while.

Location:My couch

Half Time Treat

Carvel football ice cream cake. Let's hold on here Green Bay!

Super Bowl

First off, Christina Aguilera screwed up the anthem. I forgive her.

Then I took a picture of the spread - pretty impressive.


Guacamole in back left. Chips and salsa. Potato chips. French onion dip. Honey BBQ and medium wings in the tri-square white plates. Celery and carrots to go with "buffalo" chicken meatballs. Baked eggplant pizzas. Lettuce for the lettuce turkey wraps.

Jordy Nelson has to catch that pass. Back to the game.

Glad to finally be home.

Location:America

Trending Now

This is another running topic I will try to keep with.  I plan on using BING.com as my search engine for these posts because they only have four topics trending where Yahoo! has ten.    I do not have the attention span to briefly touch on ten topics.

1. Super Bowl - The Big Game.  NFC Champions Green Bay Packers (-2.5) vs. AFC Champion Pittsburgh Steelers.  Super Bowl XLV.  Kickoff is scheduled for 6:25 pm at Jerry World in Arlington, Texas.  I am picking the Packers because of one B.J. Raji.  Big man in the middle against a backup center for the Steelers.  Watch out you rapist.

2. Ronald Reagan - 40th President of the United States.  He would have turned 100 today and still hits home with younger people who weren't even alive or old enough to remember his time in office.  The Gipper, as he was known, was a true leader.  My father loves him, and I may have to delve deeper into what he was all about.  I lack on my political knowledge, but I'm intrigued by Ronald Reagan.

3. Christina Aguilera - American recording artist.  This Staten Islander (she was born there, anyway) will sing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl.  Since released her first album in 1999 with "Genie in a Bottle" as the main track.  She's always been quite the performer and besides music has been in four movies, including Burlesque in 2010.  I think the over/under on the time of the anthem is set at one minute and fifty-four seconds.  I'll take the over.

4. Muslim Brotherhood - Islamic transnational movement.  They're basically an oppositional group to the government in Egypt.  They've come to their senses and decided it's time to sit down with the government to try to end the country's political turmoil.  The thing Egypt needs to do is simple, and this is a sentiment shared by President Obama - get Hosni Mubarak out of office.  This would end all this camel-charging nonsense going on in Egypt.

Hope this provides you with some insight into what the world is interested in today. 

Me, I'm interested in getting the hell out of this gym after the game and whipping up some food before I pass out on the couch only to be awaken again by my alarm at 4:39 am to head back here for practice.

Take care.

My Super Sunday; Duke Pumps NC St.

After a measly 5 hours of sleep last night, I am back in the gym.  Practice went well - took some ground balls, hit live, hit of the machines, and spoke on some mental aspects of the game we need to improve on.  Overall, I felt it was a successful practice.

I proceeded to set up for the women's basketball game this afternoon at 2 pm, which will hinder my cooking and prep time for Super Bowl Tapas menu at the Darcy Apartment.

I think I'm going with some "buffalo" turkey meatballs, a nice homemade guacamole, and some wings from a new wings joint that just opened up on Broadway.  Jesse is making a few things as well, and when Lindsay heads to the store to pick up the last-minute ingredients, I'm sure she'll come back with a few surprises.

Moving on to college hoops, Duke barreled through an over-matched NC State team 76-52 - easily covering the 19.5 point spread.  They head in to their Tobacco Road showdown with North Carolina on Wednesday night with a head of steam.  UNC is finally playing well again after a year or so of mediocrity.  Should be a battle, as it always is with these two teams.  Even when one or both teams are struggling, this matchup brings out the beasts in both sides.  Tune in to that one.

Finally, the Super Bowl is tonight.  Still not sure how the Packers are favored in this one, but I think they will find a way to win.  They are inexperienced but I think they'll go in to this one loose.  For what it's worth, the game is still the same, it's just magnified by the stage.  I will probably only make it to the 3rd Quarter because of fatigue.

Very much looking forward to the commercials - they always give me a good laugh.  Doritos has always had good ones in the past, as has Budweiser.  I hope there's a dark horse this year that puts out a hilarious commercial that provokes me to impulsively buy their product.

Packers 24
Steelers 18

Time to type up activity logs.  Go Pack Go!

Boo This Day

This has to go down as one of the worst days in recent memory.  I've been in this gym since 6:15 this morning and the end is just now in sight.  Five more eight minute quarters to go - and there has yet to be a good team here. 

/It's a Coaches v Cancer tournament, so at least it's for a good cause.

Regardless, the $250 paycheck  seemed worth it 5 hours ago - not so much now.

I'm literally doing the clock and scoreboard and blogging at the same time.  I've become delerious and it's kind of funny.  Me and Rene, my Cubano sidekick, are just speking gibberish.

There's a three-point barrage going on right now.  I just stop the clock when I hear a whistle - I haven't looked at the court in at least 90 seconds. 

I'm also in control of the music, so Muse, Nine Inch Nails, and Kid Cudi are staples.  I just got yelled at because I didn't put the two points on the scoreboard fast enough - these people must not know I've been here since 6:15 this morning. 

Free food at least, from some deli - pretty good sandwiches.  I've had at least 5 halves already - I guess that isn't much, seeing how it's 8:09 pm and the games started at 10:30 am.

Good pace to my snacking.

Bye.

Thanks Andy

Thanks again, Andy. You're a HOF'er in my book and your #46 should be retired in Monument Park at Yankee Stadium.

Location:My couch

Red Hot Awesome

Just a quick post before I tend to actual work setting up for a Coaches vs. Cancer basketball tournament tomorrow that I am required to work from 10 am to 10 pm (I know, be jealous).

I just had a bag of quite possibly the best candy ever - Hot Tamales.  I am a candy fiend (and have only had one cavity in 29 years) and have tried and enjoyed many different types of candy, but Hot Tamales are my go-to candy.

Maybe it's because I love hot, spicy, cinnamon-y candy, or maybe it's just because they're so dang awesome.

Go grab yourself a box or a bag, especially when it's cold out.

Baby D's Music Collection...

...has begun.

I went on iTunes and purchased Muse: Lullaby Versions of Muse.  We are currently sitting here on the couch listening to it while we watch Wipeout with the television on mute.

Hysteria is on and Baby D likes it I think - lots of movement.

Hospital Tour-ing; Andy, You're a Star; Jers-day Nights; Duke Romp

Hospital Tour-ing
We took the hospital tour today of where we will be having our baby.  It's an awesome hospital but they have some pretty strict rules.  Lindsay has to pick two support people and those are the only two allowed in the room with her throughout child birth.  Once she is admitted into a private room, visiting hours are in effect.  If one or both of her "support people" are ill, have to work, etc. etc., she can't add another person.  Looks like I have to stay strong and on my feet.

Also, only still shots are allowed.  No video cameras allowed.  Wrist and ankle bands are put on the baby as soon as it's delivered and warmed up and baby isn't allowed outside the exits otherwise the sensor in the bands locks all the exits to the entire hospital.  This is to prevent child abduction, which is scary as shit, but it's real.  So I'm glad they're on top of that.

All in all, it was a good trip, and although it feels like we've been in Manhattan every day for the past week or so, it's still cool to see everything that NYC offers.  Today, there was a lot of ice - on streets, sidewalks, and crosswalks.  When we were walking to and from the hospital, we saw somewhere around 5 people just bite it.  Some went down gracefully, some just took a dive - one thing about all of them though - it always makes me laugh.

We took the train down, walked across Central Park, and got to the hospital.  We chose to take the bus back.  It was bitter cold outside and didn't feel like walking back across the park.  Oh well.  And there was a Crumbs right next to the bus stop - we mighta picked up a few.

Andy, You're a Star
I got home today from the hospital tour and flipped on my iPad and the ESPN ScoreCenter only to find out that Andrew Eugene Pettitte is announcing his retirement.  After 16 seasons, the first of the Yankees' Core Four is calling it a career.  It was a sad day when he took his talents to Houston in 2004, but it's a sadder day today, as he hangs up his cleats for the last time.  He should be a Hall of Fame'r, and will certainly go in as a Yankee.  He was the big game pitcher for them throughout his career, and with five World Series rings to show for it, it's easy to tell how he fared in those games.

Let's go inside the numbers (which hardly tell the story of what Andy Pettitte meant to the NY Yankees) and take a look at a stellar career:

5: World Series rings ('96, '98, '99, '00, '09)
1: ALCS MVP Award (2001)
3: All-Star Game selections ('96, '01, '10)
6: Post-Season series clinching wins (1st all-time)
19: Post-Season wins (1st all-time)
102: Games over .500 for his career (240-138)
3.88: ERA
2,251: Strikeouts

The city of New York and the Yankees organization will lose a great man and great ballplayer on Friday, when the announcement is made.  You will be missed Andy.  Thanks for the memories - and the signature fist pump that always made me give a fist pump as well.

Jers-day
Speaking of fist pumps, Jersey Shore is on at 10:00 pm.  Don't miss it, even though it's a fair assumption to say I will.  This early, crack of dawn practice thing is throwing off my sleeping (or lack thereof) pattern.  I'd like to get some good zzz's in tonight since I felt like a zombie this morning walking in to practice.  The one good thing about the cold is that it wakes me up by the time I get to the gym.

I follow Vinny and Pauly D on Twitter, and they are both pretty funny guys.  Vinny is hilarious, so if you do Tweet, follow @VINNYGUADAGNINO - you'll enjoy his one-liners.

Duke Romp
Duke headed to College Park and Maryland has one thing on their mind - handing Duke it's first two-game losing streak since February 2009.  Duke was up for the challenge and wound up leaving Maryland with an 80-62 win.  Two 40-point halves and stifling defense in the second half allowed Duke to pull away.  Not to mention the fact that they shot 53% from the floor.

Critics always say how Duke draws fouls because they're Duke - whatever that means.  Well, Maryland attempted 11 more free throws and was +10 from the line. 

The two seniors, Singler and Smith led Duke, again.  Mason Plumlee actually asserted himself and had himself a double-double (12 points, 11 rebounds) - only his third one of the year.

My ass hurts from typing this - I'm sitting on the floor, so it's time to get up.

Get your sleep.  I will.  It's clean sheet night thanks to Lindsay.  (she did laundry)