I am realizing more and more how hard it is to state an opinion if it does not reflect the mass populous of American culture. It doesn't matter if I insult someone or not, jump on someone or not, belittle someone or not. Just having the opinion and expressing it seems to be a horrible act.
Sean Avery, a very controversial New York Ranger who likes to live in the public eye, decided to publicly support the campaign for gay marriage in New York State. He is one of the first pro athletes to take that stand. Now this is not about whether Avery supported the correct side or not; I'm not going to go there. The topic is a very hot button and will probably remain so for a long time. But a lot of my FB friends who are Rangers fans wrote that they support it. Amy did, which I knew she would, since she has a few gay friends in Colorado. A few other people responded favorably to her post. But a few people talked about "antiquated religious views" and ripped the preachers and "Bible belt types" for being oppressive and out of touch.
Since I am a human being and I have a voice, I decided to make mine known. I don't appreciate being stereotyped at all. So I wrote that and I also said I supported the sports agent who tweeted that he disagreed with Avery's stance. I expected a little criticism, but I was hoping my thoughts would at least be respected. And I get ripped. I got this long diatribe from my friend saying things like "I know gay couples who are doing better than straight couples" and "If I jumped on you every time I disagreed with something you wrote, you would hear from me a lot."
I wrote back and said I didn't intend to jump on anyone and I never insulted anyone. But I felt I had been insulted along with all people who believe what I believe. Now by contrast, I don't assume that all atheists/agnostics are evil people. I believe they are just wrong. By the way, not every religion can be correct! And about Point #1, I'm sure there are alcoholics who are happier than sober, depressed people. That doesn't make getting drunk on a frequent basis a good idea.
That brings me to the issue of tolerance. American culture teaches us to tolerate everybody and what they believe. The idea is that society will grant each individual the opportunity to experience life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness without the burdens imposed by bias, discrimination or societal condemnation. Supposedly, eliminating these barriers will result in the advancement of mankind, both personally and communally. We will be happy, healthy, and live in peace and harmony.
The problem with the religion of tolerance is that, by definition, the boundaries of society become blurred and ambiguous; there can be no absolute truth. Rules once applicable to everyone now apply to no one. Topics once thought taboo are open for exploration in the name of tolerance.
Here's what I want my friends who disagree with me to know. As a Christian, I believe I am to love all people (yes it's hard), but just because I disagree with someone doesn't mean I hate them. And I certainly won't give into the messages this culture bombards me with just to avoid arguments.
So many people want to be friends of the world. Sure, there are numerous benefits to be attained by being of the world. I can attain pleasure, wealth, power and glory if I'm willing to play the game. But make no mistake about it, being of the world makes me an enemy of God.
So many people choose to believe that entrance into heaven is based on works, i.e. whether they are “good” or not. The good in their minds is a good based upon the perception of good acts outweighing bad acts. There are also a number of people who adhere to the idea of tolerance and the belief that tolerance is a universal concept that applies today and in the future.
I know this: God crated the world and he created human beings. His laws do not change over time. God is loving, kind and merciful. Throughout the Bible, God demonstrates patience, love, and care for mankind, desiring that none of us perish, but that we would all be saved through grace and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. However, God has another side. He is also holy, righteous and just. There will be a judgment. And God won't be so tolerant then. That judgment will be final and we won't be able to appeal. And despite what one may hope for, tolerating everything will not be a factor.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
I Like Inge
Haven't felt very compelled to write recently. I guess it's one of those bullet days. Let's have at it.
1) The Queen of Queens. Things have been getting pretty crazy with CI and myself. We're texting tons and talking literally every day. I don't know why, but the women I tend get along well with always live at least 1,000 miles away. I am hoping this one can go somewhere.
2) Was very happy on Thursday to get treated to Chipotle by my boss. Our whole team of 14 people got treated and we had 50 minutes of pure fun. I drove Haziq and Chad over to Woodfield Mall, about 2 minutes away. And I had my burrito with rice, pintos, barbacoa, tomatillo salsa, chili-corn salsa, cheese, and guacamole. Of course, with plenty of lime wedges and the smoked green Tabasco sauce as well.
3) After we got home, Kyle said that was his first time ever eating at Chipotle. None of us could believe it. Later, I overheard him say to Haziq that he should get a plaque. Now it was around 4 pm, so I had an hour to go and Thursday is typically a slow day for me anyway. So with some extra time available and most of my team on their way home, I opened up Microsoft Publisher and went to work. I designed a certificate commemorating his first visit, complete with Chipotle logos, a picture of a half-eaten burrito, and every person's name on our team. He showed it to the whole team and everyone got a kick out of it; it was a pretty good feeling for me.
3) After seven months away from the grass fields at the corner of 25 and Fabyan in north Batavia, we resumed playing ultimate frisbee soccer. The heat was pretty intense, maybe 80 degrees or so. Eight guys showed up: me and Burns ewere the only ones from CT. Dan was a newcomer, while both Joes, John, Frank, and Ben Jeffrey showed up as well. We played two games, both going to a final goal. In the first game, I forced a turnover near the sideline and fired the disc into the mesh, sealing a Game 1 win. We drew new teams for Game 2, and I assisted on Dan's winning goal. I scored five times in the games, including one from midfield. It was good to get back out there. But I know another thing. I seriously need to up my cardio workouts! I was gassed, I think almost everyone was after a solid hour. I will be out this week, but I'm excited to play as the summer goes on.
4) The weather was just insane on Friday. I walked into the office and the temperature outside was around 80 degrees. Mostly sunny, a few little white clouds scattered here and there. I walked out at 5 and the temperature had plummeted to around 50 degrees with gray skies, and a cold breeze blowing.
5) So I left work and headed to group in Glen Ellyn. At the end, I got the sad news that Craig is moving to San Diego for a new pharmaceutical job. He was an asset to our Friday group for years, always sparking the group with a discussion point. Granted, sometimes those points took 20 minutes. But we'll miss him, he won't be easily replaced.
6) So I headed home, got a couple of Scooby's hot dogs on the way. I headed to the basement for the No Name radio show, which Jim and Eddie were hosting, with the intent of the show revolving around anything except hockey. So for the first 20 minutes, we discussed old school pro wrestling, which of course, I was up for. And someone mentioned how many of them had died. Then Eddie was about to go on a rant about Barbara Walters and how she needs to leave The View.
Then someone wrote in the chat that Derek Boogaard had died. It was Friday the 13th, I thought it was a rib. But I checked Twitter and saw the tweet had come from Mike Russo, a reporter from the St. Paul Tribune. Slowly it sunk in that the news was real. 28 years old and one of the toughest men to ever play in the NHL was dead.
Last year, Glen Sather signed Boogaard to a ridiculous 4-year, $7 million deal. He only played 22 games for the Rangers before sitting out the rest of the year due to concussion issues. He didn't seem to play a huge role in the future, mostly as a bench player with too a high a salary cap hit. But supposedly, he was motivated to come back and have a great sophomore season with the Rangers. And now he's gone. It doesn't devastate me from a Rangers perspective. It's just sad that 28-year old guy died so suddenly. Nice of the Bruins to have a moment of silence before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals for the Boogie Man. I am interested to see what the Rangers will do for him on Opening Night.
7) Bob Chinn's is known for their seafood, but their garlic rolls are pure bliss. I hope in heaven I can eat tons of garlic and have it not affect my breath...
8) Softball season is supposed to start tomorrow and of course, rain is in the forecast. Steve, Daren, the other Steve, Clay, Tim, we seem to have about half our team returning. And we will play 10 games instead of 9, which is great. The league has shrunk from 24 teams down to 13, which is substantial, but at least everyone gets to make the playoffs, which will start in August.
9) I signed up for annual membership to work out at the Norris Center. At the end of the day, it's cheap and it's two minutes from home. Those are the real advantages. But the workouts are very average, in terms of weight equipment and I can't control the TV's in the cardio rooms. But they do have a dry sauna (it actually gets hot unlike in South Barrington) and a whirlpool! That is one nice way to relax! And so I am alone on a Saturday night.
10) But there are things to look forward to. May 19. Citi Field. Catherine.
11) The New York Mets are just maddening. Infuriating. Winning streak followed by a losing streak. The good stuff: Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, Jason Isringhausen, and Ike Davis. A slight nod to Justin Turner and Jason Pridie. The bad stuff: Jason Bay, Mike Pelfrey, R.A. Dickey, the entire bench, injuries to Ike Davis, Pedro Beato, and Chris Young, the lack of attendance, the lack of respect, the inevitable trading of Reyes and Beltran, and being in last place.
12) Ring of Honor returns to Chicago Ridge next Saturday night. Supercard of Honor 6. Will have to write a preview of that as the days draw near.
1) The Queen of Queens. Things have been getting pretty crazy with CI and myself. We're texting tons and talking literally every day. I don't know why, but the women I tend get along well with always live at least 1,000 miles away. I am hoping this one can go somewhere.
2) Was very happy on Thursday to get treated to Chipotle by my boss. Our whole team of 14 people got treated and we had 50 minutes of pure fun. I drove Haziq and Chad over to Woodfield Mall, about 2 minutes away. And I had my burrito with rice, pintos, barbacoa, tomatillo salsa, chili-corn salsa, cheese, and guacamole. Of course, with plenty of lime wedges and the smoked green Tabasco sauce as well.
3) After we got home, Kyle said that was his first time ever eating at Chipotle. None of us could believe it. Later, I overheard him say to Haziq that he should get a plaque. Now it was around 4 pm, so I had an hour to go and Thursday is typically a slow day for me anyway. So with some extra time available and most of my team on their way home, I opened up Microsoft Publisher and went to work. I designed a certificate commemorating his first visit, complete with Chipotle logos, a picture of a half-eaten burrito, and every person's name on our team. He showed it to the whole team and everyone got a kick out of it; it was a pretty good feeling for me.
3) After seven months away from the grass fields at the corner of 25 and Fabyan in north Batavia, we resumed playing ultimate frisbee soccer. The heat was pretty intense, maybe 80 degrees or so. Eight guys showed up: me and Burns ewere the only ones from CT. Dan was a newcomer, while both Joes, John, Frank, and Ben Jeffrey showed up as well. We played two games, both going to a final goal. In the first game, I forced a turnover near the sideline and fired the disc into the mesh, sealing a Game 1 win. We drew new teams for Game 2, and I assisted on Dan's winning goal. I scored five times in the games, including one from midfield. It was good to get back out there. But I know another thing. I seriously need to up my cardio workouts! I was gassed, I think almost everyone was after a solid hour. I will be out this week, but I'm excited to play as the summer goes on.
4) The weather was just insane on Friday. I walked into the office and the temperature outside was around 80 degrees. Mostly sunny, a few little white clouds scattered here and there. I walked out at 5 and the temperature had plummeted to around 50 degrees with gray skies, and a cold breeze blowing.
5) So I left work and headed to group in Glen Ellyn. At the end, I got the sad news that Craig is moving to San Diego for a new pharmaceutical job. He was an asset to our Friday group for years, always sparking the group with a discussion point. Granted, sometimes those points took 20 minutes. But we'll miss him, he won't be easily replaced.
6) So I headed home, got a couple of Scooby's hot dogs on the way. I headed to the basement for the No Name radio show, which Jim and Eddie were hosting, with the intent of the show revolving around anything except hockey. So for the first 20 minutes, we discussed old school pro wrestling, which of course, I was up for. And someone mentioned how many of them had died. Then Eddie was about to go on a rant about Barbara Walters and how she needs to leave The View.
Then someone wrote in the chat that Derek Boogaard had died. It was Friday the 13th, I thought it was a rib. But I checked Twitter and saw the tweet had come from Mike Russo, a reporter from the St. Paul Tribune. Slowly it sunk in that the news was real. 28 years old and one of the toughest men to ever play in the NHL was dead.
Last year, Glen Sather signed Boogaard to a ridiculous 4-year, $7 million deal. He only played 22 games for the Rangers before sitting out the rest of the year due to concussion issues. He didn't seem to play a huge role in the future, mostly as a bench player with too a high a salary cap hit. But supposedly, he was motivated to come back and have a great sophomore season with the Rangers. And now he's gone. It doesn't devastate me from a Rangers perspective. It's just sad that 28-year old guy died so suddenly. Nice of the Bruins to have a moment of silence before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals for the Boogie Man. I am interested to see what the Rangers will do for him on Opening Night.
7) Bob Chinn's is known for their seafood, but their garlic rolls are pure bliss. I hope in heaven I can eat tons of garlic and have it not affect my breath...
8) Softball season is supposed to start tomorrow and of course, rain is in the forecast. Steve, Daren, the other Steve, Clay, Tim, we seem to have about half our team returning. And we will play 10 games instead of 9, which is great. The league has shrunk from 24 teams down to 13, which is substantial, but at least everyone gets to make the playoffs, which will start in August.
9) I signed up for annual membership to work out at the Norris Center. At the end of the day, it's cheap and it's two minutes from home. Those are the real advantages. But the workouts are very average, in terms of weight equipment and I can't control the TV's in the cardio rooms. But they do have a dry sauna (it actually gets hot unlike in South Barrington) and a whirlpool! That is one nice way to relax! And so I am alone on a Saturday night.
10) But there are things to look forward to. May 19. Citi Field. Catherine.
11) The New York Mets are just maddening. Infuriating. Winning streak followed by a losing streak. The good stuff: Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, Jason Isringhausen, and Ike Davis. A slight nod to Justin Turner and Jason Pridie. The bad stuff: Jason Bay, Mike Pelfrey, R.A. Dickey, the entire bench, injuries to Ike Davis, Pedro Beato, and Chris Young, the lack of attendance, the lack of respect, the inevitable trading of Reyes and Beltran, and being in last place.
12) Ring of Honor returns to Chicago Ridge next Saturday night. Supercard of Honor 6. Will have to write a preview of that as the days draw near.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Sat Morning Fever
1) I wish I had more Rangers fans around me. Had my first phone conversation with one who lives in Queens last night. We FB chatted for an hour and talked on the phone for 90 minutes. Why are women i connect with always living at least 1,000 miles away?
2) The Knicks are a joke. 3-0 down to Boston. Their biggest home game in at least 10 years and they trail 22-5 before your rear end hits the seat. Disgraceful.
3) Mom is gone to the Rhine River for 10 days. I have to spend Easter alone.
4) Good Friday service was amazing. Guy came and led us through a traditional Passover meal. Everyone got a kit with crackers, grape juice box, horseradish, parsley, and applesauce. Very informative, very impactful. The cool part was at the end when Pastor Bill said they didn't expect the service to be so crowded. We had to sing the last verse of Amazing Grace on our way out!
5) Feel like another sandwich...and sweet tea vodka
2) The Knicks are a joke. 3-0 down to Boston. Their biggest home game in at least 10 years and they trail 22-5 before your rear end hits the seat. Disgraceful.
3) Mom is gone to the Rhine River for 10 days. I have to spend Easter alone.
4) Good Friday service was amazing. Guy came and led us through a traditional Passover meal. Everyone got a kit with crackers, grape juice box, horseradish, parsley, and applesauce. Very informative, very impactful. The cool part was at the end when Pastor Bill said they didn't expect the service to be so crowded. We had to sing the last verse of Amazing Grace on our way out!
5) Feel like another sandwich...and sweet tea vodka
Rangers Game 5 tracking
So the Rangers trail Washington 3-1 in the first round. And that loss in Game 4 was one of the worst defeats I have seen any of my teams suffer. Blowing a 3-0 lead in the third period at home and losing in overtime. But it is a new day.
This worked against the Devils so I will try it again. The Rangers head to Washington DC with their season on the verge of ending. I will blog the game as it unfolds.
2:23: One fan with "Can You Hear Me Now" card. How creative...
2:26: Well, I'm not encouraged. Boyle, Avery, and Prust had a great first shift and in the four minutes since the Caps have peppered Hank with shots.
2:29: Rangers have blocked seven shots in the first six minutes. In other words, they are not controlling the puck.
2:30: A fucking bullshit power play. The Capital was falling when McCabe grabbed him. And then they score when there should have been goalie interference. I'm done. Absolutely done.
This worked against the Devils so I will try it again. The Rangers head to Washington DC with their season on the verge of ending. I will blog the game as it unfolds.
2:23: One fan with "Can You Hear Me Now" card. How creative...
2:26: Well, I'm not encouraged. Boyle, Avery, and Prust had a great first shift and in the four minutes since the Caps have peppered Hank with shots.
2:29: Rangers have blocked seven shots in the first six minutes. In other words, they are not controlling the puck.
2:30: A fucking bullshit power play. The Capital was falling when McCabe grabbed him. And then they score when there should have been goalie interference. I'm done. Absolutely done.
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Heart Attack-Rangers style
The New York Rangers are clinging to their playoff lives. Not too long ago, they were seven points up on a playoff spot. But Buffalo and Carolina kept winning while the Rangers lost Ryan Callahan and played like horseshit in a 3-0 loss at home to the stinky Atlanta Thrashers.
Here's the bottom line. The Rangers are about to face off against the New Jersey Devils in just a matter of minutes. The Carolina Hurricanes take on Tampa Bay at home tonight. The Rangers and Canes are tied in the standings with 91 points. Carolina owns the tiebreaker so the Rangers need to gain a point. If they lose in regulation, they are done. If they only gain one point, Carolina must lose in regulation. If they win, Tampa HAS to be beat Carolina.
I do not feel good about these odds. Missing the playoffs would be an absolute disgrace. Not because the Rangers are so talented, they're not. And they work hard most of the time. But their goal scoring is so inconsistent. Six goals in one game, three goals over the next three games. They should be better than Tampa, better than Buffalo, maybe better than Montreal. And they can beat any team in this fucking league, they have proved that time after time.
I am happy Chris Drury is back from knee surgery, though I don't see why Erik Christensen is playing and Sean Avery is scratched. Isn't his energy what this team needs against the Devils and their goalie? As for Matt Gilroy playing over Steve Eminger, whatever. Both will be history after this season anyway.
11:40: Faceoff time. This crowd better bring it today. Not to mention the players.
11:43: 1-0 New Jersey. Kovalchuck. Unfuckingbelievable 11:45: Drury ties it! His first shift back and it's his first goal of the season! Holy crap! The Maaaaaaa-rty chants are deafening.
11:52 Pretty back and forth now and I love that crowd.
11:56 Halfway through the first period. I like this defense working in the offensive zone. The forecheck is working well. Against that young Jersey defense, the Rangers need to impose their will. Hits count: Rangers 10, Devils 2
12:08 Brodeur robs Fedotenko. Boyle is really palying hard. He will get a significant raise next season. No penalties to this point. Three minutes left.
12:11 That no good motherfucker Kovalchuk again. 2-1.
12:36: Well, I had to restart the computer and missed Wolski tie the score at 2-2. Grab that lead!
12:38: First penalty, coincidental minors, 4-on-4. Watching Kovalchuk close.
12:46: Rangers continue to block shots, Boyle with a sliding block. Both teams playing with a lot of physicality. Neither seems be able to get the edge over another.
12:49: Ryan McDonagh! His first career goal over Marty's shoulder. It's 3-2 Rangers!
12:55: Rangers continue to press hard on the Devils. They really seem on the verge of taking this game over.
12:59: The Prust is a must! 4-2! Now the Devils are trying to goad the Rangers. The Devils are hitting, trying to get the Rangers to retaliate. The Rangers have not been short handed today and the refs don't seem eager to blow the whistle. I have a good feeling about this game. The one later tonight...
1:05: The second period is over. 20 minutes remaining. The Rangers have continue to play assertive hockey and not let the Devils control possession.
1:33: No real action in this period and that's probably good. Six minutes down.
1:37: 5 shots on goal over the first 9 minutes between both teams. Still no power plays at all.
1:40: On a 2-on-1, Anisimov finds Prospal, who deposits the puck over Marty's right shoulder into the net. 5-2, nine minutes left. You can put this in the books! 1:43: Rangers fans start a "Let's Go Lightning!" chant. Awesome!
1:49: Another TV timeout. Four minutes and counting... 1:53: Two minutes to go...Drury still out there skating.
1:55: And it's a 5-2 final. They did their job today. Time for the Blueshirt Off Our Backs ceremony.
Carolina has won 8 of 10 and one of those losses was in overtime to Buffalo, of all teams. For the next seven hours, I am the biggest Tampa Bay Lightning fan in the state of Illinois, maybe in the entire Central time zone! For everyone I will see at Game Night tonight, forgive me if I am totally distracted the entire time...
Here's the bottom line. The Rangers are about to face off against the New Jersey Devils in just a matter of minutes. The Carolina Hurricanes take on Tampa Bay at home tonight. The Rangers and Canes are tied in the standings with 91 points. Carolina owns the tiebreaker so the Rangers need to gain a point. If they lose in regulation, they are done. If they only gain one point, Carolina must lose in regulation. If they win, Tampa HAS to be beat Carolina.
I do not feel good about these odds. Missing the playoffs would be an absolute disgrace. Not because the Rangers are so talented, they're not. And they work hard most of the time. But their goal scoring is so inconsistent. Six goals in one game, three goals over the next three games. They should be better than Tampa, better than Buffalo, maybe better than Montreal. And they can beat any team in this fucking league, they have proved that time after time.
I am happy Chris Drury is back from knee surgery, though I don't see why Erik Christensen is playing and Sean Avery is scratched. Isn't his energy what this team needs against the Devils and their goalie? As for Matt Gilroy playing over Steve Eminger, whatever. Both will be history after this season anyway.
11:40: Faceoff time. This crowd better bring it today. Not to mention the players.
11:43: 1-0 New Jersey. Kovalchuck. Unfuckingbelievable 11:45: Drury ties it! His first shift back and it's his first goal of the season! Holy crap! The Maaaaaaa-rty chants are deafening.
11:52 Pretty back and forth now and I love that crowd.
11:56 Halfway through the first period. I like this defense working in the offensive zone. The forecheck is working well. Against that young Jersey defense, the Rangers need to impose their will. Hits count: Rangers 10, Devils 2
12:08 Brodeur robs Fedotenko. Boyle is really palying hard. He will get a significant raise next season. No penalties to this point. Three minutes left.
12:11 That no good motherfucker Kovalchuk again. 2-1.
12:36: Well, I had to restart the computer and missed Wolski tie the score at 2-2. Grab that lead!
12:38: First penalty, coincidental minors, 4-on-4. Watching Kovalchuk close.
12:46: Rangers continue to block shots, Boyle with a sliding block. Both teams playing with a lot of physicality. Neither seems be able to get the edge over another.
12:49: Ryan McDonagh! His first career goal over Marty's shoulder. It's 3-2 Rangers!
12:55: Rangers continue to press hard on the Devils. They really seem on the verge of taking this game over.
12:59: The Prust is a must! 4-2! Now the Devils are trying to goad the Rangers. The Devils are hitting, trying to get the Rangers to retaliate. The Rangers have not been short handed today and the refs don't seem eager to blow the whistle. I have a good feeling about this game. The one later tonight...
1:05: The second period is over. 20 minutes remaining. The Rangers have continue to play assertive hockey and not let the Devils control possession.
1:33: No real action in this period and that's probably good. Six minutes down.
1:37: 5 shots on goal over the first 9 minutes between both teams. Still no power plays at all.
1:40: On a 2-on-1, Anisimov finds Prospal, who deposits the puck over Marty's right shoulder into the net. 5-2, nine minutes left. You can put this in the books! 1:43: Rangers fans start a "Let's Go Lightning!" chant. Awesome!
1:49: Another TV timeout. Four minutes and counting... 1:53: Two minutes to go...Drury still out there skating.
1:55: And it's a 5-2 final. They did their job today. Time for the Blueshirt Off Our Backs ceremony.
Carolina has won 8 of 10 and one of those losses was in overtime to Buffalo, of all teams. For the next seven hours, I am the biggest Tampa Bay Lightning fan in the state of Illinois, maybe in the entire Central time zone! For everyone I will see at Game Night tonight, forgive me if I am totally distracted the entire time...
Rediscovering Keith Whitley
Turn Me To Love
A Hard Act To Follow
I Think I Want My Rib Back
Miami, My Amy
Ten Feet Away
Homecoming '63
Hard Livin'
Would These Arms Be In Your Way?
Some Old Side Road
I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Don't Close Your Eyes
When You Say Nothing At All
I'm No Stranger To The Rain
Lucky Dog
I Never Go Around Mirrors
It's All Coming Back To Me Now
I Wonder Do You Think of Me
A Day In the Life Of a Fool
It Ain't Nothin'
I'm Over You
Till a Tear Becomes a Rose
Between An Old Memory and Me
Brotherly Love Kentucky Bluebird
That's Where I Want To Take Our Love
Going Home
Thanks for the great music Keith. Country music could sure use one like you now. Yet, there were very few like you, before or since. 1955-1989
A Hard Act To Follow
I Think I Want My Rib Back
Miami, My Amy
Ten Feet Away
Homecoming '63
Hard Livin'
Would These Arms Be In Your Way?
Some Old Side Road
I Wonder Where You Are Tonight
Don't Close Your Eyes
When You Say Nothing At All
I'm No Stranger To The Rain
Lucky Dog
I Never Go Around Mirrors
It's All Coming Back To Me Now
I Wonder Do You Think of Me
A Day In the Life Of a Fool
It Ain't Nothin'
I'm Over You
Till a Tear Becomes a Rose
Between An Old Memory and Me
Brotherly Love Kentucky Bluebird
That's Where I Want To Take Our Love
Going Home
Thanks for the great music Keith. Country music could sure use one like you now. Yet, there were very few like you, before or since. 1955-1989
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Mets season preview-Part 2
Catchers
I like that Josh Thole, a solid left-handed contact hitter, will get the bulk of the playing time. Don't know much about his defense though. I liked Ronny Paulino as this year's Henry Blanco, a right-handed platoon, except this guy seems to always have some kind of issue. Whether it's his visa keeping him out of Florida or stomach pains or blood issues. I'm sure he'll get in there eventually.
Infielders
Ike Davis is a young first baseman and has the most raw power of anyone on the team. He plays excellent defense too, the one thing I need to see from him is at least a .265 average. He struck out way too many times last season and that can't keep going on.
After a 4-way battle that kept dragging on, Rule 5 acquisition Brad Eamus is the starting second baseman over Justin Turner, Luis Hernandez, and thankfully, Luis Castillo. Like Thole, Eamus is a patient hitter who focuses on getting on-base. I like the change in philosophy. Because there have been too many times over the last few years I would see these all-or-nothing strikeout-prone free swingers in the Met lineup. Fernando Tatis, Damion Easley, Ramon Castro, and Jeff Francoeur all come to mind.
Jose Reyes is one of my favorite Mets, but I am all but resigned that this will be his last season in Flushing. His contract expires this year and he will reportedly seek Carl Crawford-type money, around $100 million. The Mets simply cannot afford that kind of contract.
David Wright, the face of the franchise. I think we know what this guy provides. Solid, yet streaky offense, and mediocre defense. Make him foul a few pitches off, then throw an outside slider. Works every time.
Outfielders
Very early in spring training, Carlos Beltran volunteered to move to right field from center. That should have been a warning sign that his surgically-"repaired" knees were not right. He only played in two major league spring training games and he certainly isn't well enough to play every day. But this is his contract year, so he has to be motivated for one big season. He can still mash the ball, the question is can his legs hold up?
As the news came early this week that Beltran would be ready for Opening Day, the same day, Jason Bay felt a tweak in his ribcage and has been put on the DL. After a terrible first half of 2010 and a concussion terminating his season early, I really believed Bay needed a fast start to get the fans behind him. With this injury, this could derail his progress.
Angel Pagan emerged as a true bright spot last season. He never got injured and showed almost no signs of the fundamental errors that seemed to plague his career for ages. His speed and knack for key hits make him an ideal center fielder for this team. I do question Collins hitting him fifth, he should bat second, Bay or no Bay.
Bench
Two years ago, Mets fans were insisting Daniel Murphy had to start. And he does possess a solid major-league bat. The problem is he simply cannot play defense. His best positions are first and third base and those will be occupied for at least five years. I like him as a lefty bat off the bench. How sad it is it that in 2009, his 12 home runs led the Mets?
Chin-Lung Hu is not much more than a defensive replacement. Something tells me we will see more of him starting than we will want to. That could come from Eamus not playing well or Reyes getting traded/injured.
I was thrilled when Alderson signed Scott Hairston as a free agent. And he has batted .345 with five home runs in the spring. I think he will emerge as a pretty key part of this team.
How many times did Mets fans see Willie Harris kill them, whether it was a stolen base or more likely, a huge catch. And Omar Minaya constantly refused to sign him. Looking at his spring stats, the three homers aside, I like that he took 12 walks and has an OBP of almost .400.
Lucas Duda should be starting the second and third games in Miami. He is likely only around until Bay returns. He has a lot of raw power, but it seemingly took him 25 AB's to get his first base hit last season. I see him as a Wily Mo Pena or Craig Brazell, a career Triple-A slugger who likely will not hit well enough against major-league hurlers.
Philadelphia has a lot of injury issues right now with Brown, Utley, and Lidge all out. And Rollins and Ibanez are quickly aging. But they still boast four aces. And everyone seems to be licking Atlanta's boots. Let them. I absolutely don't see the Mets making the playoffs but I can see them hanging in the race for the first half like they did last year. But even if that happens, there is this black cloud hanging, that Alderson could trade Reyes if he concludes he won't be able to re-sign the team's spark, soul, and energy. Since there are so many question marks, and only so many can go the right way, I will say the Mets win 79 games and finish 4th in the NL East.
I like that Josh Thole, a solid left-handed contact hitter, will get the bulk of the playing time. Don't know much about his defense though. I liked Ronny Paulino as this year's Henry Blanco, a right-handed platoon, except this guy seems to always have some kind of issue. Whether it's his visa keeping him out of Florida or stomach pains or blood issues. I'm sure he'll get in there eventually.
Infielders
Ike Davis is a young first baseman and has the most raw power of anyone on the team. He plays excellent defense too, the one thing I need to see from him is at least a .265 average. He struck out way too many times last season and that can't keep going on.
After a 4-way battle that kept dragging on, Rule 5 acquisition Brad Eamus is the starting second baseman over Justin Turner, Luis Hernandez, and thankfully, Luis Castillo. Like Thole, Eamus is a patient hitter who focuses on getting on-base. I like the change in philosophy. Because there have been too many times over the last few years I would see these all-or-nothing strikeout-prone free swingers in the Met lineup. Fernando Tatis, Damion Easley, Ramon Castro, and Jeff Francoeur all come to mind.
Jose Reyes is one of my favorite Mets, but I am all but resigned that this will be his last season in Flushing. His contract expires this year and he will reportedly seek Carl Crawford-type money, around $100 million. The Mets simply cannot afford that kind of contract.
David Wright, the face of the franchise. I think we know what this guy provides. Solid, yet streaky offense, and mediocre defense. Make him foul a few pitches off, then throw an outside slider. Works every time.
Outfielders
Very early in spring training, Carlos Beltran volunteered to move to right field from center. That should have been a warning sign that his surgically-"repaired" knees were not right. He only played in two major league spring training games and he certainly isn't well enough to play every day. But this is his contract year, so he has to be motivated for one big season. He can still mash the ball, the question is can his legs hold up?
As the news came early this week that Beltran would be ready for Opening Day, the same day, Jason Bay felt a tweak in his ribcage and has been put on the DL. After a terrible first half of 2010 and a concussion terminating his season early, I really believed Bay needed a fast start to get the fans behind him. With this injury, this could derail his progress.
Angel Pagan emerged as a true bright spot last season. He never got injured and showed almost no signs of the fundamental errors that seemed to plague his career for ages. His speed and knack for key hits make him an ideal center fielder for this team. I do question Collins hitting him fifth, he should bat second, Bay or no Bay.
Bench
Two years ago, Mets fans were insisting Daniel Murphy had to start. And he does possess a solid major-league bat. The problem is he simply cannot play defense. His best positions are first and third base and those will be occupied for at least five years. I like him as a lefty bat off the bench. How sad it is it that in 2009, his 12 home runs led the Mets?
Chin-Lung Hu is not much more than a defensive replacement. Something tells me we will see more of him starting than we will want to. That could come from Eamus not playing well or Reyes getting traded/injured.
I was thrilled when Alderson signed Scott Hairston as a free agent. And he has batted .345 with five home runs in the spring. I think he will emerge as a pretty key part of this team.
How many times did Mets fans see Willie Harris kill them, whether it was a stolen base or more likely, a huge catch. And Omar Minaya constantly refused to sign him. Looking at his spring stats, the three homers aside, I like that he took 12 walks and has an OBP of almost .400.
Lucas Duda should be starting the second and third games in Miami. He is likely only around until Bay returns. He has a lot of raw power, but it seemingly took him 25 AB's to get his first base hit last season. I see him as a Wily Mo Pena or Craig Brazell, a career Triple-A slugger who likely will not hit well enough against major-league hurlers.
Philadelphia has a lot of injury issues right now with Brown, Utley, and Lidge all out. And Rollins and Ibanez are quickly aging. But they still boast four aces. And everyone seems to be licking Atlanta's boots. Let them. I absolutely don't see the Mets making the playoffs but I can see them hanging in the race for the first half like they did last year. But even if that happens, there is this black cloud hanging, that Alderson could trade Reyes if he concludes he won't be able to re-sign the team's spark, soul, and energy. Since there are so many question marks, and only so many can go the right way, I will say the Mets win 79 games and finish 4th in the NL East.
Mets season preview-Part 1
This offseason has been one of doubt, turmoil, and pessimism for all of us who love the New York Mets. The Wilpons may owe 1 billion dollars due to the Bernie Madoff fraud, leaving the team with almost no money to make any moves. The biggest players the Mets acquired were probably Chris Young, Willie Harris, and Scott Hairston. And with the team's level of play continuing to deteriorate over the last three years, the fans have spoken by choosing to stay away from CitiField. As of today, the Mets have sold just 600,000 tickets.
However, they have an experienced new GM in Sandy Alderson who hired the fiery Terry Collins as the team's new manager. Collins has not managed since 2002, but I think his aggressive temperament will be a welcome change from Art Howe, Willie Randolph, and Jerry Manuel, all of whom displayed passive personalities.
Starting pitching
The biggest blow is Johan Santana rehabbing from a torn capsule in his shoulder. He is not expected to return to the Mets until July and in all fairness, this is such a unique injury that I would not be surprised to see him not take the mound once this year if the Mets happen to fall out of the race early on.
So Mike Pelfrey has been appointed the No. 1 starter, by default. He showed signs of brilliance last season, but went through a few stretches where he looked completely disheveled. He's really more of a No. 3.
Jon Niese is a talented young lefty who could emerge as the team's top pitcher. He did tire in the second half of last season, so I think he will be physically and mentally prepared to start 30 games this year.
R.A. Dickey, what can you say that hasn't already been said? The knuckleballer emerged from obscurity to become a star at 36 years of age. He won't take the league by surprise this year, but with his unique harder knuckler, I think he can improve on his 11 wins from last season.
As for Chris Young, the former All-Star in San Diego, I am very intrigued. He has dealt with a rash of injuries over the last three years, allowing the Mets to sign him for cheap. He pitched to a 1.50 ERA in spring training, so that's very encouraging. I have to wonder how long he will hold up.
And Chris Capuano didn't pitch in 2008 or 2009, but at least he was very solid before that. I don't know what to really expect, but he, like Young, has posted respectable March numbers. Then again, that is merely March.
With Dillon Gee, Pat Misch, and Jenrry Mejia waiting in the minors, this staff is not great, but it is deep. The problem is Florida, Atlanta, and especially Philadelphia all feature at least one legitimate
ace starting pitcher.
Bullpen
Closer Frankie Rodriguez hasn't allowed a run all spring. One catch: he a clause where he will make $17.5 million if he finishes 55 games. Anyone with a brain knows the Mets will do anything to keep him from making that money.
Bobby Parnell will get the first shot at pitching the eighth inning. He has an overpowering fastball, but has never really been able to command a secondary pitch, the slider. If he can do that, the Mets will feature a potent 1-2 punch.
Tim Byrdak replaces Pedro Feliciano as the lefty specialist. He beat out four other guys, let's see how he does against the Ryan Howards, the Jason Heywards, and the Brian McCanns.
Taylor Buchholz could probably challenge Parnell for the setup role if he is fully healthy and commanding that terrific curveball. He has pitched effectively this spring.
Blaine Boyer is an ex-Brave who came to camp with a minor-league deal and won a spot. At 29, he can still throw hard, I can see him grabbing a prominent role.
Pedro Beato, a Brooklyn native, was acquired in the Rule 5 draft from Baltimore. I imagine he'll start out pitching in the 6th and 7th innings in low-pressure spots and that will determine whether he gets more meaningful work or disappears completely.
D.J. Carrasco appears to have the long relief role, but his ERA is over 5 this spring. Not too excited over him, let's see what he does.
I think Jason Isringhausen will definitely see some time if one of the latter three falter. Taylor Tankersley and Mike O'Connor are two lefties who will pitch in Triple-A along with Japanese righty Ryota Igarashi, who I hope to never see anywhere near a Mets uniform ever again. This bullpen could emerge as a great strength for the Mets, it's just that so many of these guys are unknowns.
However, they have an experienced new GM in Sandy Alderson who hired the fiery Terry Collins as the team's new manager. Collins has not managed since 2002, but I think his aggressive temperament will be a welcome change from Art Howe, Willie Randolph, and Jerry Manuel, all of whom displayed passive personalities.
Starting pitching
The biggest blow is Johan Santana rehabbing from a torn capsule in his shoulder. He is not expected to return to the Mets until July and in all fairness, this is such a unique injury that I would not be surprised to see him not take the mound once this year if the Mets happen to fall out of the race early on.
So Mike Pelfrey has been appointed the No. 1 starter, by default. He showed signs of brilliance last season, but went through a few stretches where he looked completely disheveled. He's really more of a No. 3.
Jon Niese is a talented young lefty who could emerge as the team's top pitcher. He did tire in the second half of last season, so I think he will be physically and mentally prepared to start 30 games this year.
R.A. Dickey, what can you say that hasn't already been said? The knuckleballer emerged from obscurity to become a star at 36 years of age. He won't take the league by surprise this year, but with his unique harder knuckler, I think he can improve on his 11 wins from last season.
As for Chris Young, the former All-Star in San Diego, I am very intrigued. He has dealt with a rash of injuries over the last three years, allowing the Mets to sign him for cheap. He pitched to a 1.50 ERA in spring training, so that's very encouraging. I have to wonder how long he will hold up.
And Chris Capuano didn't pitch in 2008 or 2009, but at least he was very solid before that. I don't know what to really expect, but he, like Young, has posted respectable March numbers. Then again, that is merely March.
With Dillon Gee, Pat Misch, and Jenrry Mejia waiting in the minors, this staff is not great, but it is deep. The problem is Florida, Atlanta, and especially Philadelphia all feature at least one legitimate
ace starting pitcher.
Bullpen
Closer Frankie Rodriguez hasn't allowed a run all spring. One catch: he a clause where he will make $17.5 million if he finishes 55 games. Anyone with a brain knows the Mets will do anything to keep him from making that money.
Bobby Parnell will get the first shot at pitching the eighth inning. He has an overpowering fastball, but has never really been able to command a secondary pitch, the slider. If he can do that, the Mets will feature a potent 1-2 punch.
Tim Byrdak replaces Pedro Feliciano as the lefty specialist. He beat out four other guys, let's see how he does against the Ryan Howards, the Jason Heywards, and the Brian McCanns.
Taylor Buchholz could probably challenge Parnell for the setup role if he is fully healthy and commanding that terrific curveball. He has pitched effectively this spring.
Blaine Boyer is an ex-Brave who came to camp with a minor-league deal and won a spot. At 29, he can still throw hard, I can see him grabbing a prominent role.
Pedro Beato, a Brooklyn native, was acquired in the Rule 5 draft from Baltimore. I imagine he'll start out pitching in the 6th and 7th innings in low-pressure spots and that will determine whether he gets more meaningful work or disappears completely.
D.J. Carrasco appears to have the long relief role, but his ERA is over 5 this spring. Not too excited over him, let's see what he does.
I think Jason Isringhausen will definitely see some time if one of the latter three falter. Taylor Tankersley and Mike O'Connor are two lefties who will pitch in Triple-A along with Japanese righty Ryota Igarashi, who I hope to never see anywhere near a Mets uniform ever again. This bullpen could emerge as a great strength for the Mets, it's just that so many of these guys are unknowns.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Free Thursday
So I will be working Saturday morning. And some people seem surprised I chose to take Thursday off instead of Friday. Well I did it for two main reasons. One, it's one less day I have to dress up this week. Two, I far prefer having a break right in the middle of the week as opposed to at the end.
I am going to relish this day. I got to sleep two hours later than I normally would. And I'm very happy to see that my large tax refund has come in from the government. Of course, 3/4 of that goes straight to bills...
Will hang with Dayna and having lunch at Prime, my second time there. Last time, I went with the BLT&A burger, sans the mayo of course. I think this time, it'll be the Drunken Bull Burger, a Kobe patty with crispy prosciutto, sauteed mushrooms, and onions, and bleu cheese (which will be replaced by Swiss cheese) served on a grilled pretzel roll. Maybe a Bananas Foster shake to go with?
The Rangers have won 7 of their last 8 games. I am absolutely thrilled with how this team is playing. And they won their last two games without Marc Staal! But Marian Gaborik is scoring goals, Henrik Lundqvist's level of goaltending has continued to get better (he has recorded a league-high 10 shutouts), and that line of Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky, and Artem Anisimov is playing so cohesively, even better than they did at the start of the season.
In all likelihood, they will play Washington or Philadelphia in the first round, with an outside chance of Boston if they can pass Montreal and grab sixth place. I think I will take my chances with Washington, a team that never plays well when the pressure is high, whose goaltending is still questionable, and a team that the Rangers have won 3 of 4 games against this season.
Song pick: "That Loving You Feeling Again" Roy Orbison and Emmylou Harris
I am going to relish this day. I got to sleep two hours later than I normally would. And I'm very happy to see that my large tax refund has come in from the government. Of course, 3/4 of that goes straight to bills...
Will hang with Dayna and having lunch at Prime, my second time there. Last time, I went with the BLT&A burger, sans the mayo of course. I think this time, it'll be the Drunken Bull Burger, a Kobe patty with crispy prosciutto, sauteed mushrooms, and onions, and bleu cheese (which will be replaced by Swiss cheese) served on a grilled pretzel roll. Maybe a Bananas Foster shake to go with?
The Rangers have won 7 of their last 8 games. I am absolutely thrilled with how this team is playing. And they won their last two games without Marc Staal! But Marian Gaborik is scoring goals, Henrik Lundqvist's level of goaltending has continued to get better (he has recorded a league-high 10 shutouts), and that line of Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky, and Artem Anisimov is playing so cohesively, even better than they did at the start of the season.
In all likelihood, they will play Washington or Philadelphia in the first round, with an outside chance of Boston if they can pass Montreal and grab sixth place. I think I will take my chances with Washington, a team that never plays well when the pressure is high, whose goaltending is still questionable, and a team that the Rangers have won 3 of 4 games against this season.
Song pick: "That Loving You Feeling Again" Roy Orbison and Emmylou Harris
Monday, March 21, 2011
CT Word association
Initials given to protect the guilty
ABo-Never a dull moment
AWa-Just one more girl that is leaving over some douche of a guy?
BJe-Heck of a guy. Solid leader, will be a solid father
CHo-Need a break from the video lessons
ESn-Shame you chose to end it
KG-Keep looking, don't get discouraged
JRe-Vitality
JSc-Bright spirit
LRi-Really growing, the Dominican mission trip sounds like it will be incredible
MDe-Both our baseball teams will stink
MRi-What are you thinking about?
NTr-You will be missed
ABo-Never a dull moment
AWa-Just one more girl that is leaving over some douche of a guy?
BJe-Heck of a guy. Solid leader, will be a solid father
CHo-Need a break from the video lessons
ESn-Shame you chose to end it
KG-Keep looking, don't get discouraged
JRe-Vitality
JSc-Bright spirit
LRi-Really growing, the Dominican mission trip sounds like it will be incredible
MDe-Both our baseball teams will stink
MRi-What are you thinking about?
NTr-You will be missed
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Dorian Gray
I seem to have an affinity for old music, movies, and a lot of historical information. So, I woke up this morning around 7 and after making an egg white omelette, I headed downstairs to the basement. Must have just turned 7:30. So I turned the TV on and started flipping through the dials. On TCM, I saw "The Picture of Dorian Gray."
Now I had not seen this film, but I knew of it. Get Smart had done an episode based on the idea of aging, except Dorian Gray was a lethal paint instead of a man's name.
Gray is a wealthy, young, British aristocrat. While posing for a painting by his friend Basil, Dorian meets Basil's friend Lord Henry Wotton. He is cynical and witty, and explains to a naive Dorian that the only life worth living is one dedicated entirely to pleasure. After Wotton convinces Dorian that youth and beauty will bring him everything he desires, in front of an ancient Egyptian statue, Dorian openly wishes that his portrait could age instead of him.
"If only it was the picture who was to grow old, and I remain young. There's nothing in the world I wouldn't give for that. Yes, I would give even my soul for it."
That final sentence. As time goes on, Dorian notices that while he doesn't age, the photo, which now hangs in his private study, does. Over the years, the painting of the young Dorian had warped into that of a hideous, demon-like creature, to reflect Dorian's sins. I'm not going to summarize the rest of the movie, but I want to point out a few things I realized while watching this movie, and more specifically, the life of Dorian Gray.
1) Dorian became more and more paranoid about his photo being discovered by anyone. He held the only key to the study and anytime one of his servants became suspicious of his youthful appearance, he would fire them.
2) By striving for earthly happiness, Dorian took all his sins upon himself. And as he looked into the picture over 20 years, he was able to see it.
3) I realize more and more how much impact I can have on other people. Dorian's desire for constant pleasure and selfish ambition ultimately resulted in pain, anguish, and even death for him, his friends, and female companions.
This is not exactly a fun movie to watch, but it is a very unique, compelling story and deals with the harsh reality of sin and consequence. And perhaps our culture could learn a little from this movie 66 years after it was made.
Now I had not seen this film, but I knew of it. Get Smart had done an episode based on the idea of aging, except Dorian Gray was a lethal paint instead of a man's name.
Gray is a wealthy, young, British aristocrat. While posing for a painting by his friend Basil, Dorian meets Basil's friend Lord Henry Wotton. He is cynical and witty, and explains to a naive Dorian that the only life worth living is one dedicated entirely to pleasure. After Wotton convinces Dorian that youth and beauty will bring him everything he desires, in front of an ancient Egyptian statue, Dorian openly wishes that his portrait could age instead of him.
"If only it was the picture who was to grow old, and I remain young. There's nothing in the world I wouldn't give for that. Yes, I would give even my soul for it."
That final sentence. As time goes on, Dorian notices that while he doesn't age, the photo, which now hangs in his private study, does. Over the years, the painting of the young Dorian had warped into that of a hideous, demon-like creature, to reflect Dorian's sins. I'm not going to summarize the rest of the movie, but I want to point out a few things I realized while watching this movie, and more specifically, the life of Dorian Gray.
1) Dorian became more and more paranoid about his photo being discovered by anyone. He held the only key to the study and anytime one of his servants became suspicious of his youthful appearance, he would fire them.
2) By striving for earthly happiness, Dorian took all his sins upon himself. And as he looked into the picture over 20 years, he was able to see it.
3) I realize more and more how much impact I can have on other people. Dorian's desire for constant pleasure and selfish ambition ultimately resulted in pain, anguish, and even death for him, his friends, and female companions.
This is not exactly a fun movie to watch, but it is a very unique, compelling story and deals with the harsh reality of sin and consequence. And perhaps our culture could learn a little from this movie 66 years after it was made.
Sunday, March 06, 2011
After a sad morning, thank you Rangers
I am not one to discuss dating on here, because it usually would get me in trouble. But since the guilty and I have no mutual friends, I'll make an exception.
I met this girl on E-harmony. We went through all the silly communication stages and we started e-mailing for about a week. We had two phone conversations, probably totalling three hours. We laughed a lot, seemed to have a lot of similar interests. We agreed to meet for the first time on Saturday at Tom and Eddie's for lunch.
I was really excited all morning. I just had a very good feeling about how we had been connecting, plus it didn't hurt that I thought she was cute. This is all I need to say about our time together. It was 1:45 when she arrived. I looked at my watch and it's suddenly 5:15. Those 3.5 hours absolutely blazed by. So we walked outside and the snow was falling. We shared a big hug goodbye and went our separate ways. I believe I was courteous and respectful. We seemed to have a great time. I drove away feeling pretty good.
Then this morning, she left for softball spring training in Arizona. So I texted her right before church began, saying have a safe flight, thanks for yesterday, all the nice stuff I figured a considerate guy would do.
After church got out one hour later, a text alert popped up on my Blackberry. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect it to be a Dear John text.
I could barely speak. And I didn't speak for nearly all of Come Thirsty. I may have fought back a tear or two. I know I only knew her for one week, but I really felt there was something there. I have had that gut feeling maybe two other times in my life.
I passed on the Fermi Lab tour and went straight home. I just needed to be alone, was not feeling very social. On the counter, I found the 75 cents in change from Tom and Eddie's. Here's what I have learned about this whole single life thing. The freedom feels great. The isolation stings.
So I arrived home, tried in vain to unclog the shower, and turned on the Rangers-Flyers game from the Garden. Ryan Callahan scores the first of his seven goals inside the first minute and the rout was on. They beat Philly to every loose puck, they hit, they passed, they skated. It was just a tremendous performance and that MSG crowd ate it up! A 7-0 whitewashing of the top-seeded Flyers on home ice. It took five games, but the Rangers finally beat Philly in the 2010-11 season. And memo to the Rangers brass, the NHL, or whoever it has to be: I want the white jerseys worn at home for the rest of the season!
I met this girl on E-harmony. We went through all the silly communication stages and we started e-mailing for about a week. We had two phone conversations, probably totalling three hours. We laughed a lot, seemed to have a lot of similar interests. We agreed to meet for the first time on Saturday at Tom and Eddie's for lunch.
I was really excited all morning. I just had a very good feeling about how we had been connecting, plus it didn't hurt that I thought she was cute. This is all I need to say about our time together. It was 1:45 when she arrived. I looked at my watch and it's suddenly 5:15. Those 3.5 hours absolutely blazed by. So we walked outside and the snow was falling. We shared a big hug goodbye and went our separate ways. I believe I was courteous and respectful. We seemed to have a great time. I drove away feeling pretty good.
Then this morning, she left for softball spring training in Arizona. So I texted her right before church began, saying have a safe flight, thanks for yesterday, all the nice stuff I figured a considerate guy would do.
After church got out one hour later, a text alert popped up on my Blackberry. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect it to be a Dear John text.
I could barely speak. And I didn't speak for nearly all of Come Thirsty. I may have fought back a tear or two. I know I only knew her for one week, but I really felt there was something there. I have had that gut feeling maybe two other times in my life.
I passed on the Fermi Lab tour and went straight home. I just needed to be alone, was not feeling very social. On the counter, I found the 75 cents in change from Tom and Eddie's. Here's what I have learned about this whole single life thing. The freedom feels great. The isolation stings.
So I arrived home, tried in vain to unclog the shower, and turned on the Rangers-Flyers game from the Garden. Ryan Callahan scores the first of his seven goals inside the first minute and the rout was on. They beat Philly to every loose puck, they hit, they passed, they skated. It was just a tremendous performance and that MSG crowd ate it up! A 7-0 whitewashing of the top-seeded Flyers on home ice. It took five games, but the Rangers finally beat Philly in the 2010-11 season. And memo to the Rangers brass, the NHL, or whoever it has to be: I want the white jerseys worn at home for the rest of the season!
Friday, March 04, 2011
12 days!
So I dropped Mom off at the Westin hotel in Itasca this morning. She has a 12-day bus tour to Palm Springs. This is her first tour since November, so it is overdue for us to spend a little time apart. They are traveling through St. Louis, Amarillo TX (And the Big Texan steakhouse!), Oklahoma City, and Albuquerque before hitting California.
That required waking up at 5 am for a 6:30 dropoff. The office is only a few minutes away, so I arrived at 6:45 with over an hour to go before I could start working. I went down to the cafe and ate some of my banana pudding and slept. I did my 8-5 thing and was happy to find out I will get a nearly $1,000 raise.
I could have stopped for dinner, I was thinking about a sandwich at Potbelly's, but I passed. Instead, I fought off the rain and hit Starbucks for a chai tea. Group was very mixed. Why that one person has a problem with me, I don't understand.
After so much time out of the house, 14 hours to be exact, I went home. I wanted to stop by Wheaton Academy to check out the Warriors and their shot at winning a regional title, but I was just gassed. They won anyway! Finally, a title of some sort for that program. Now they play Crane, who the Trib ranked as No. 19 in Chicagoland. Sounds like quite the challenge. But it's time for WA to to do something big in the IHSA playoffs.
Other thoughts:
1) I am so excited to meet someone tomorrow. I really think there might be something here. Really, I do.
2) Four weeks till the Mets open up! Despite the likely mediocre season that will unfold, I am really starting to get excited. Why oh why?
3) Wow, the Rangers won a game. Yippee. Beat Philadelphia for the first time on Sunday and I will be impressed. Ottawa is putrid anyway.
4) Banana pudding always gets the love.
5) Tied to the whipping post! Thank you Allman Brothers Band!
That required waking up at 5 am for a 6:30 dropoff. The office is only a few minutes away, so I arrived at 6:45 with over an hour to go before I could start working. I went down to the cafe and ate some of my banana pudding and slept. I did my 8-5 thing and was happy to find out I will get a nearly $1,000 raise.
I could have stopped for dinner, I was thinking about a sandwich at Potbelly's, but I passed. Instead, I fought off the rain and hit Starbucks for a chai tea. Group was very mixed. Why that one person has a problem with me, I don't understand.
After so much time out of the house, 14 hours to be exact, I went home. I wanted to stop by Wheaton Academy to check out the Warriors and their shot at winning a regional title, but I was just gassed. They won anyway! Finally, a title of some sort for that program. Now they play Crane, who the Trib ranked as No. 19 in Chicagoland. Sounds like quite the challenge. But it's time for WA to to do something big in the IHSA playoffs.
Other thoughts:
1) I am so excited to meet someone tomorrow. I really think there might be something here. Really, I do.
2) Four weeks till the Mets open up! Despite the likely mediocre season that will unfold, I am really starting to get excited. Why oh why?
3) Wow, the Rangers won a game. Yippee. Beat Philadelphia for the first time on Sunday and I will be impressed. Ottawa is putrid anyway.
4) Banana pudding always gets the love.
5) Tied to the whipping post! Thank you Allman Brothers Band!
And So It Goes (not a happy rant)
And so will you soon I suppose.
KP's photo is up. Some red-headed douche got selected. I mean, that is pathetic.
2 close casual friends with me, 1 elevated existence, and Jack and Danny seem to pop every now and then.
And SP, 43 mutuals. E (minus one bottom line) off. Your loss, not mine. You wouldn't know a geunine man if he looked you in the eye and screamed it and waved a banner hanging off a damn helicopter saying "I AM GENUINE!"
The other SP, formerly of Geneva, LIAR! "I'm with him, I'm not, I'm breaking up, oh, I'm not sure right now..." Forget you, if I may keep it clean! I wish Sam Kinison was still alive to rip you a new one on the phone in front of 20,000 people!
Mr. Murphy, your thoughts???
"Let me hear the men clap that are loyal to their women. Truthfully. Stop. You lyin' motherf***ers, stop. Stop, stop, stop. Kiss my ass. There ain't no such thing as a loyal man. You lyin' motherf***ers, stop it. The only reason you clapped is because your woman sitting next to you right now. When I asked that question, she looked at you like..." "You gonna put your hands togetha?"
"No loyal men. All men f*** other women. We are low by nature and have to do it. We are men. All men do it. We have to do it. We are men. It is a man thing. Men must conquer and find as much as they can get. Do not think for two seconds you're the only one your man is f***in'! He is a man and has to conquer women. I see a lot of women sitting out there going 'Not my man.' Yes your man too! Your man too! If he not here with you tonight, he f*** in somebody!"
"All women have skeletons in their closets. Some of the women got cemeteries in their closet. You open the door and ravens and shit fly out!"
KP's photo is up. Some red-headed douche got selected. I mean, that is pathetic.
2 close casual friends with me, 1 elevated existence, and Jack and Danny seem to pop every now and then.
And SP, 43 mutuals. E (minus one bottom line) off. Your loss, not mine. You wouldn't know a geunine man if he looked you in the eye and screamed it and waved a banner hanging off a damn helicopter saying "I AM GENUINE!"
The other SP, formerly of Geneva, LIAR! "I'm with him, I'm not, I'm breaking up, oh, I'm not sure right now..." Forget you, if I may keep it clean! I wish Sam Kinison was still alive to rip you a new one on the phone in front of 20,000 people!
Mr. Murphy, your thoughts???
"Let me hear the men clap that are loyal to their women. Truthfully. Stop. You lyin' motherf***ers, stop. Stop, stop, stop. Kiss my ass. There ain't no such thing as a loyal man. You lyin' motherf***ers, stop it. The only reason you clapped is because your woman sitting next to you right now. When I asked that question, she looked at you like..." "You gonna put your hands togetha?"
"No loyal men. All men f*** other women. We are low by nature and have to do it. We are men. All men do it. We have to do it. We are men. It is a man thing. Men must conquer and find as much as they can get. Do not think for two seconds you're the only one your man is f***in'! He is a man and has to conquer women. I see a lot of women sitting out there going 'Not my man.' Yes your man too! Your man too! If he not here with you tonight, he f*** in somebody!"
"All women have skeletons in their closets. Some of the women got cemeteries in their closet. You open the door and ravens and shit fly out!"
Thank you Eddie!
I make this trip once every couple years. Went Fishing, passed by Church, stopped by the Butcher, and passed through the Hills. No vacancies. I think Jack just came back and he needs attention. I'll meet that request.
Till Saturday...
Behind the back
Billy Crystal's character in "When Harry Met Sally" was absolutely right. I realize more and more how men and women cannot be friends. The sex factor, whether it happens or not, is indeed always going to get in the way. I figured that one out today.
Even if the sex doesn't come into play, all it takes is one person finding a relationship. Just like that, the friendship dies. Specifically, if it's the woman who finds someone. She finds a guy and all of a sudden, she can't have a conversation with any other guy in her spare time. Even a conversation with a guy at work becomes awkward. It's like the guy has surveillance on her 24/7. If it's the guy who gets into the relationship, we don't give a shit. We'll keep talking with every girl we know, hell, we might even try to do it more often just to appease our own egos.
I was always the setup guy for marriage. There are at least four, possibly five, women who I went out with at least once and they married the next guy they dated. Now, in a span of two days, two women who I hung out with on a semi-regular basis suddenly find themselves in relationships! What that means for me, I have no idea. It is somewhat amusing.
But whatever. There is a shot. I really hope tomorrow works. For all my bravado and whatever confidence I feel like I have discovered in the last couple of months, I am a bit nervous. I hope she likes me.
Even if the sex doesn't come into play, all it takes is one person finding a relationship. Just like that, the friendship dies. Specifically, if it's the woman who finds someone. She finds a guy and all of a sudden, she can't have a conversation with any other guy in her spare time. Even a conversation with a guy at work becomes awkward. It's like the guy has surveillance on her 24/7. If it's the guy who gets into the relationship, we don't give a shit. We'll keep talking with every girl we know, hell, we might even try to do it more often just to appease our own egos.
I was always the setup guy for marriage. There are at least four, possibly five, women who I went out with at least once and they married the next guy they dated. Now, in a span of two days, two women who I hung out with on a semi-regular basis suddenly find themselves in relationships! What that means for me, I have no idea. It is somewhat amusing.
But whatever. There is a shot. I really hope tomorrow works. For all my bravado and whatever confidence I feel like I have discovered in the last couple of months, I am a bit nervous. I hope she likes me.
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