Happy New Year!

Here is another edition of a year in review ... for purely entertainment, non-historical purposes.

My favorites ...

TV Show: Three way tie: Grey's Anatomy, Family Guy and CSI:NY
New TV Show: Pushing Daisies
CD: +44: When Your Heart Stops Beating
Song: No It Isn't ~ +44
Movie (in Theater): Bourne Ultimatium
Movie (Rental): Big Fish
Football Player: The Ever Impressive: Brett Favre
Football Player I'd like to watch more: Big Ben Rothelisberger
Biggest NFL Surprise: Green Bay Packers! & the Cleveland Browns
Biggest NFL Disappointment: the New Orleans Saints
I'll turn the channel when: any thing with the Patriots is on!
Celeb I'm sick of: Tiki Barber
Gift Given: new MP3 Player for mom
Gift Received: Lap desk
Best new tradition/habit: Get Fuzzy! 365 days a year
Commercial: Dallas Yawn ~ Pepsi Max
Traveling: to New York City for a week ~ with 7 inches of rain! Theatre Tour: 5 shows, Comedy club, Regis & Kelly ~ Starry Night at the MoMA and RENT!!!
KoL: Roll out of NS13, a less than 2 week run, 3 million meat (whoohoo!)
Wine: 17 bottles, Wollersham Winery, Domaine Reserve

Other Notables: CSI teased that Sara Siedl was going to die. When she didn't, i refused to watch the show again.

Best Blog: Grey Matter~blog of the writers from Grey's Anatomy, new post after each show, unforunately cut down because of the writer's strike.

Packer Post -- Installment 64

The Packers don't secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs because of the loss to the Chicago Bears in week 16. Punter Jon Ryan suffered the most in this wind-blown, water-logged game. He fumbled a snap, had two punts blocked, one returned for a touchdown and one go for nine-yards.

Quarter Breakdown:

* First Quarter: 0-3 ~ Bears *

* Second Quarter: 7-13 ~ Bears *

* Third Quarter: 7-28 ~ Bears *

* Fourth Quarter: 7-35 ~ Bears *

In the match up against the Lions, the team is able to close the regular season on a positive note, improving special teams coverage and blocking. It put together a good game even though several key players were inactive and Favre plus many of the starters were pulled after the first quarter.

Quarter Breakdown:
* First Quarter: 14-3 ~ Packers *
* Second Quarter: 21-10 ~ Packers*
* Third Quarter: 31-13 ~ Packers *
* Fourth Quarter: 34-13 ~ Packers*

On to the Playoffs!

What a bunch of CRAP!

Tonight, CBS aired a promo that Saturday they would air the Patriots-Giants. I was slightly disappointed, I would prefer a game with teams I cared about.

Later in the night on FOX I saw an NFL Network commercial: the Pats vs. the Giants. Saturday.

Uh.....wtf? Was I hallucinating with the CBS thing?

Whatever, okay.

So I'm watching Leno still later at night: NBC presents the Patriots and Giants, battling head-to-head.

Okay....what the hell is going on? Three networks? Did you hear me? THREE NETWORKS. For a regular season game that has no implication on the playoffs.

I understand about the magnitude of the game historically. And the importance of giving the fans the opportunity to watch it and reminisce for years forward (I remember when the Giants creamed the Patriots in their quest for the epic undefeated season. Oh the look on Tom Brady's face when it happened, we thought Moss was going to cry (wishful thinking...Giants win Saturday, Giants win Saturday)).

I get that, and it's great that they are airing it on network television, when the NFL prides itself on being America's True Pastime--and the most accessible league. But we can air it on one network. And get this ... in New York and Boston markets, ABC has rights to the game. For those without math skills that will be four---how is anyone making money on this diluted market? They should all re-do their promos: Patriots vs. the Giants on CBS (and NBC. And the NFL Network. And, if you live in Boston or New York, ABC.)

But let's all be honest here, with all of my dislike for Bill Belicheck, the sickening dynasty talk and the golden boy quarterback who looks great because, oh by the way, he's throwing to the best wide receiver in the league--------this game has two possibilities, and neither of them is making me jump out of my chair to watch it.

1) Absolute blow out -- regardless of who plays, Brady, Moss, Manning or their third string understudies... because again, this game has no meaning in the grand scheme of the playoffs which last time i checked, were pretty damn important because they determined who plays in the Championship game and the magnificent Patriots aren't just ushered in unless congress makes a new law (which I realize is entirely possible since the Patriots are indeed that fucking great) to make the Super Bowl the Patriots vs. whichever team (and hey why don't we have a playoff system where NFC vs. AFC teams play to decide which team is good enough to be whopped on by the Patriots in the Super Bowl) and while we're at it, let's rename it.... how about the Chowder Bowl? Or the Patriots are Fantastic Bowl? Or This is Irrelevant a Because We All Know the Patriots Are Really the Best Ever Bowl (TIBWAKPRBEB for short).

2) Extremely, Close & Hard Fought Game

With either option ... and with either first string or those unnamed bench warmers, #1 will only be amusing to Pats fans. (And really people, when the Packers are up by 20+ points, I start feeling sorry for the other team and start to lose interest--don't you check out in the fourth quarter too?)

The second option would be the only one worth watching ... but it still doesn't merit three networks carrying it. I'm not even going to address that less than 40 percent of the nation (and the only people in Wisconsin who got to see it was those living in Green Bay/Milwaukee ... because the rest of the state wouldn't really mind they didn't get to see it, apparently) saw a game with actual importance to the actual reason they don't just hold a lottery system to which two teams will play in the Super Bowl (oops, sorry the TIBWAKPRBEB) in the first place. (i.e. Packers-Cowboys, which decided home field advantage for NFC Playoffs)

Yes, I obviously have animosity towards the Patriots and the whole world being swept up into calling them the best team ever and saying they'll go 19-0 by week 6. But, three networks?!?

SERIOUSLY?!

Purging & the two Tic-Tac Spider

Tonight I felt the strange need to purge. Maybe it was because too much stuff was piling up on my desk (and if so, ironically, I didn't clean my desk at all), or maybe it was because it was nice not to have every corner of every room no longer occupied by gifts, wrapping paper or other accessories to make our surroundings holly and jolly.

Right now I'm leaning on an uncomfortable lump of blankets, so it's only a matter of time before I'll take a break to make my bed. But, I've gotten off track.

Clausterphobic. That's what I was feeling. When I start feeling clausterphobic in my space, I know it's time to clean. To clear this feeling, I decided to do some slight rearranging in my room. I wanted to move my end table next to my bookcase and the CD holder to the other side of my dresser. Mix things up a little bit without doing too much heavy lifting.

I cleaned next to my bed so I could put the end stand there, and moved the CD holder--which, of course, came apart. Then I needed to clean the stand and put the stuffing sitting on it on my desk so I could move it. Okay, done. Now I pick up the stand, it's heavier than I remembered, and put it next to my bookcase.

But since the bookcase is on an angle it sticks out too much, which is the exact reason why I didn't put it there in the first place. Damn, I remember now. And now sinceI recall that, I know I can't put it next to the dresser because it sticks out too much so that I can't walk through to my bed.

Sweaty and disgusted I sit down next to the night stand, still beside the bookcase, to survey the room. Disaster--ugh.

Since I'm sitting there--and in need of a victory, no matter how small--I organize my basket that I keep my lotion, perfume and stuff in. As I am finishing that up I saw a huge fucking spider (the size of two tic-tacs placed side by side--I hate spiders, that's huge for me) crawl along the floor on to my three-tier corner table.

We have company so I can't freak out or get spider-killing help like I normally would. So now I feel all creepy-crawly-icky-like. Eww.

I resign that I moved all that stuff for no reason and start working to put it back.

With everything back where it started, though less dusty, I still feel the need to purge. To fulfill this urge I pull out a bag and stuff it with random knick knacks and stuffed animals I've collected over the past five years. I'll throw the bag in the corner of the extra bedroom. Thank goodness for junk rooms.

My only problem with this scenario is I could have gotten rid of (and actually thrown away) a lot more. I have random things that stay for the sheer reason they have sentimental value. Little trinkets I've had since I was a baby, the first (and only) picture I won at the fair, a gift from a family friend and stuff I've gotten from relatives who've since died. They fill my shelves, but I'm unwilling to part with them.

Oh well, I guess.

Other than seeing that spider, I'm no more worse for the wear.

The walls will fall before we do

Friday night was the season finale of The Next Great American Band. Now if you've seen this show (or promos for it) you'll know why it glued me to the television.

Yes, Johnny Rzeznik, frontman for The Goo Goo Dolls (only my absolute favorite singer and band) is a judge.

What a treat to see John every week and gleen a little more information about him. Oh. Yeah.

The first two weeks of the live shows he had some trouble handling the crowd boo after his comments. I'll cut him some slack on that since I'm sure it was an adjustment to go from artist to judge. He had a little too many "you guys are great, what more can I say?" type comments, but when he did give criticizm it was thoughtful and right on (in my opinion).

But now my weekly indulgence in Johnny is over. The Goo Goo Dolls performed Black Balloon on this finale show, far outshining the performance of his fellow judge Shelia E and the actual contestants of the show. I, of course, am biasis on this matter.

I was nervous about the series (what if JR acted like a loser or real jackass?) or what if the network execs hated it and pulled it from the airwaves before it finished the competition? But it didn't disappoint. The actual music was too country/folky for my tastes. I did enjoy Dot Dot Dot and Rocket (I totally agree with Johnny, the lead singer of Rocket need to work on her singing).

I'm hoping it's picked up again and more importantly, Johnny is still a judge. The host did say We'll see you again next year... so here's hoping.

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

I want to complain about certain aspects of Christmas cards, but don't want to piss people off who do what I don't like.

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Last week on American Dad's Christmas Show, Stan Smith died and met God--who was voiced by Seth MacFarlane. "It's true! I knew Seth MacFarlane is a god!"

* ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

Our 13 day wait for the arrival of Crimbo themed adventures was slightly unbearable. The wait was worth it, I'm enjoying adventuring in the Sinister Dodecahdron for the 12 days of Crimborg. This holiday season was festooned with references from Star Trek's Borg & the Collective as well as many Terminator references. I'm quite satisfied, this Crimbo season has been as enjoyable as the others I've participated in.

I'm frustrated by the stat scaling---I wasn't used to having to hit an enemy more than once, so I'm sure NS is going to be a bitch to defeat. I think I'll give her a try tomorrow.

It's such a huge disappointment that I won't be able to use all these items in a run for my main adventurer The long run has enabled me to reach Level 16 as a Seal Clubber, so I was able to gain pulverize the new nuances to this skill have been interesting/exciting/frustrating.

I've spent most of my time in the Toy Factory, collecting as much material as I can I'll keep each of the items Uncle Crimbo makes and sell the rest. I know, I'm such a mall whore. I've lost count of how many doll hives I have so I'm swimming in Tiny Plastic Series 2.

And from my visit with Rudolph the Red, I think Father Crimbo may come back, oh what a plot twist we could be in for!

(Non-KoL related babbled): I've started reading Wicked but I'm not very far because there was so many other holiday related things to get done. I'm going to try to read more in the new year.

I've been playing a lot of free cell solitare lately--do you think that makes your brain function better like crossword puzzles are supposed to?

It's been snowing and blowing all day, so I might have to draw a picture for dad's tractor instead of taking a picture. The BackStory: Dad wanted a compact tractor (but didn't want to spend his own money for one) so mom and I combined our money and bought him one. It cleaned out my mad money for shopping and entertainment that I had saved. So that's going to be his Christmas, birthday, Father's Day gift for the next 12 years (I'm not kidding, I did the math).

Packer Post -- Installment 63

December 16, 2007
Green Bay Packers at Saint Louis Rams

Koren Robinson takes the opening kick to the Packers 43. The Packers start their first drive with its "Big Five" wide receiver set up. QB-Brett Favre completes a pass to Robinson for six-yards. Favre can't handle the high snap but the play was whistled dead on a defensive offsides. A holding penalty give the Packers a first down. Later, on a third and six, from shotgun Favre hist RB-Verdand Morency to the Rams' six. RB-Ryan Grant takes it in for the touchdown.

Rams RB-Stephen Jackson rushes for six-yards. Returning from sitting out two games because of concussion, QB-Marc Bulger's fake play doesn't work as planned and LB-Nick Barnett sacks him. Rams go three and out.

On the first play of the next Packers series, WR-James Jones brings in a 21-yard pass. Grant fumbles a reception and the Rams recover. Green Bay challenges the fumble, but the call is upheld and the Packers lose a timeout.

Bulger hits WR-Torry Holt for 10-yards. Then the Rams RB-Antonio Pittman rushes for 13-yards Bulger fires from the 20, but Holt drops the pass in the end zone. The Rams spread the field with four wide receivers, but Bulger sees defensive coverage he doesn't like and calls a time out. He then connects again to a wide open Holt in the back of the end zone with CB-Al Harris on coverage.

* First Quarter: 7-7 ~ Tie *

Special teams continues to produce with key blacks with a Robinson run back of 43-yards. It could have been twice that, but Tramon Williams was called for holding. Favre hits WR-Donald Driver for a gain of 37-yards. Driver does some fancy footwork on the sidelines to keep the play alive and gain that extra yardage. TE-Donald Lee pulls in a touchdown pass.

Packers fumble a punt return on the Rams 12 Bulger airs one out to WR-Issac Bruce for 40-yards. S-Atari Bigby, who won NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors, intercepts Bulger to stop the drive.

WR-Greg Jennings receives a six-yard pass to the 35. Favre is intercepted by S-Oshiomogho Atogwe to end the half.

* Second Quarter: 17-14 ~ Packers *

Bigby ends the Rams first drive of the second half with his second interception of the game.

Favre hits Jennings for a 44-yard touchdown.

Barnett records another sack against Bulger and CB-Charles Woodson seals the drive by breaking up a third down play causing a 4th and 25.

Favre breaks Dan Marino's career passing record with a quick slant to Driver.

* Third Quarter: 27-14 ~ Packers *

The Rams start picking up penalties for sloppy play and unsportsmanlike conduct, but Atogwe intercepts Favre again.

Packers close the afternoon with back to back sacks first by DE-Aaron Kampman and LB-AJ Hawk and DE-Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila.

* Fourth Quarter: 33-14 ~ Packers *

With this win, Packers clinch a first round bye in the playoffs. In other playoff news, the Cowboys lose to the Eagles, tying the Packers record. Another Cowboy loss gives the Packers home field advantage if Packers win their remaining games.

Packers offense is ranked third in the NFL (1 & 2 are Patriots and Cowboys). Packers defense is ranked 11.

Ryan Grant is the leading NFL rusher the past five weeks and Packers wide receivers lead the league in yards after catch.

Aaron Kampman is fourth in the league in sacks. Packers named to the Pro Bowl are Kampman, Al Harris, Donald Driver and Brett Favre.

NFL News
After talking to the Atlanta Falcons and all but signing the contract, Bill Parcells becomes the Executive Vice President of Football Operations of the Miami Dolphins.

In the Dallas-Eagle game, RB-Brian Westbrook takes a knee at the one yard line, preventing the score. The Eagles then take a knee, running out the time, thus winning the game.

Packer Post -- Installment 62

Oakland Raiders at Green Bay Packers

From their own 28, on a third and four, Oakland QB-Josh McCown runs for six-yards and a first down. DE-Aaron Kampman hits McCown as he throws and the ball is nearly intercepted by S-Atari Bigby. McCown connects with RB-LaMont Jordan for six-yards, but it's not enough for the first down, and Raiders punt.

On the Packers first play, RB-Ryan Grant rushes for 13-yards. Play action to TE-Donald Lee for a gain of 11-yards and Grant took the ball again three more times for a total of 33-yards. On fourth and four, QB-Brett Favre and WR-Donald Driver do not connect and Packers turnover the ball on downs.

S-Nick Collins hits McCown for a loss of one, and Oakland turns over the ball on downs to the Packers on the Oakland 48.

It's a short Packer drive when S-Stewart Schweigert intercepts Favre on the Oakland 18.

* First Quarter: 0-0 *

In a balanced drive of rushing and passing, Grant runs in a touchdown for six-yards.

Will Blackman takes a punt back for the touchdown for 57-yards.

CB-Al Harris intercepts McCown on Green Bay's 21 and returns it 17-yards. K-Mason Crosby's field goal is wide right.

McCown hits WR-Tim Dwight deep in the middle for 22-yards. Then he connects with WR-Jerry Porter for 20-yards and again for the score for 25-yards.

* Second Quarter: 14-7 ~ Packers *

Out of shotgun, Favre makes a short pass right to WR-Greg Jennings. Jennings catch and run totals 20-yards. Robinson takes the ball down to the Oakland 33 after a 37-yard strike from Favre. Crosby tops off the drive with a 44-yard field goal.

Oakland goes three and out. The first pass after this punt is a touchdown strike from Favre to Jennings for 80-yards.

Packers punt and Dwight fumbles on the return. Blackman picks up the ball and returns it for a touchdown. The play is called down by contact, but the Packers challenge and it's reversed for the score.

* Third Quarter: 31-7 ~ Packers *

Crosby misses a 52-yard field goal.

Starting on their own 33 from a Oakland turnover on downs, RB-Verdand Morency owns the drive with six rushes for 19-yards. Favre punches in the score with a 46-yard pass to TE-David Lee.

* Fourth Quarter: 38-7 ~ Packers *

Packers clinch NFC North Division Title and Playoff Berth.

Packer Post -- Installment 61

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions
November 22, 2007 ~ Thanksgiving Day

Green Bay DT-Ryan Pickett is injuried early in the game, but returns in the third quarter. The Lions use the ground attack to move the ball down field, using three different backs to rush the ball. On a third and 20 at the Packers 28-yard line, DE-Aaron Kampman sacks QB-John Kitna for a loss of six-yards. K-Jason Hanson's 47-yard field goal is good.

On the first play of the series, QB-Brett Favre's fumble was recovered by the Lions, but Kitna is unable to complete a pass. Hanson's 41-yard field goal is good.

Neither team is able to produce a scoring drive for the remaining of the quarter.

* First Quarter: 0 - 6 ~ Lions *

In the first play of the second quarter, Kitna's pass, intended for WR-Calvin Johnson is intercepted by S-Aaron Rouse at Detroit's 45. Rouse returned the interception to the Detroit 11 and then Favre hit WR-Greg Jennings for an 11-yard touchdown.

On the next Packers' drive, Favre finds WR-Donald Driver deep for 38-yards. Then he was able to connect with WR-James Jones for 18-yards and again to Driver for another 19-yards. RB-Ryan Grant ran to the right for a five-yard touchdown.

Lions still have no luck in the passing game, and on a 3rd and seven, DE-Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila sacks Kitna for a loss of six-yards. KGB is injured during the play and does not return. Hanson boots a 45-yard kick through the uprights to put more points on the board for the Lions.

Packers K-Mason Crosby kicks a 20-yard field goal to end the quarter.

* Second Quarter: 17-9 ~ Packers *

From shotgun, Favre makes an aerial attack to four different receivers, the longest to WR-Koren Robinson for 43-yards. He caps it off with a short pass to the right to Jennings for four-yard touchdown.

Kitna takes command, progressing the Lions to the Packers' 33, but settles for a Hanson 52-yard field goal.

Favre opens the drive with style by a 24-yard strike to Jennings. Grant breathes life into the running game for 31-yards and the drive is completed with a three-yard touchdown pass to WR-Ruvell Martin.

(And did you check out the United Way Halftime show featuring The Goo Goo Dolls?? Be still my heart!! ~~ Best Thanksgiving game EVER ~~)

* Third Quarter: 31-12 ~ Packers *

Crosby kicks a 20-yard field goal for the Packers.

The Lions begin their drive on their own 25. Kitna makes a short pass up the middle to Johnson for 12-yards. Going no huddle, out of shotgun, Kitna scrambles left for six-yards. Packers help advance the ball with two personal fouls. Kitna finds succcess again from no huddle, under shotgun, connecting with Johnson for a six-yard touchdown.

Packers go three and out on the following drive and Lions gain momentum. Kitna hits Johnson twice for a collective 32-yards. And Jones caps it off with a one-yard touchdown run.

* Fourth Quarter: 37-26 ~ Packers *

Thursday, November 29, 2007
Green Bay Packers at Dallas Cowboys (aired on the NFL Network)

KGB & Charles Woodson do not play in this game and Favre is knocked out of play early in the game. Dallas has the number one seed in the NFC and will have homefield advantage over the Packers, unless they finish the season with a worse record.

* First Quarter: 10-13 ~ Cowboys *
* Second Quarter: 17-27 ~ Cowboys *
* Third Quarter: 24-27 ~ Cowboys *
* Fourth Quarter: 27-37 ~ Cowboys *

For game details, highlights and more, visit: http://www.packers.com/gameday/2007/11-29/

Are Hat Tricks Unlucky if they're Green?

There's a saying that bad luck come in three's. And I think I've achieved my own hat trick with my car.

I got new tires (not bad, but it was an inconvenience to be without my car on a work day--and if we're going to quibble over the merit of bad, the bill was a couple hundred dollars, so that's bad enough in my book).

When it was getting new shoes, they discovered a wheel bearing was out. Before it could go in again, I noticed it was really pulling. So I asked the mechanic to take a look at the alignment. That wasn't it, but guess what he found: A Nail in my new tire.

After I got it back my windshield wipers split apart. I got my three bad things, I should be good for awhile.

Last weekend, I watched the last episode of MASH. I've never seen it before.

When it got right down to it, I really didn't want to watch the episode. Just like the Harry Potter series, I didn't want it to be over. I've been watching MASH since I was a kid and even though it ended the year I was born I still absolutely loved it.

It took years for me to realize Hunnicutt and Trapper weren't the same person and then more time to be able to remember the right name.

About two years ago, I started buying the collection and it was such a treat to watch it in broadcast order. I'm sad that little era has ended: I'll never see another new MASH episode. But it'll still remain a favorite.

So back to the final episode. I cried. Yeah, of course I did. Crying at fiction is a great release. It's a pay off to an emotional investment but also a good cleanse of the soul. This is true especially when you can cry without being worse for the wear other than your hydration level.

Last night I was flipping through the channels and i stumble on Bob Dylan singing "Mr. Tambourine Man." I pause and listen to a little bit and move on to the next channel. At least 10 minutes later I come back to Bob Dylan ... singing the same part of the song that he was at when I flipped it the last time.

I just had to laugh.

As an aside, his son Jakob is smoking hot and has a soulful voice.

Why is green such a persecuted color? From Kermit lamenting about how hard it is to be green, Shrek, the Grinch, the Wicked Witch of the West, envy and it's the color of money which spawns greed...

Yepper this was a random blog.

Packer Post -- Installment 60

Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers

In the first seres S-Aaron Rouse intercepts QB-Vinny Testeverde on the 38-yard line. Rouse, a rookie his first NFL start in place of an injured S-Nick Collins.

Packers can't get a first down and the 52-yard K-Mason Crosby field goal attempt is blocked.

A fake end around progresses the Packers down the field 18-yards. WR-Donald Driver takes a direct snap for a gain of five-yards. The defense falls for a fake hand off to the right and WR-Greg Jennings catches a pass to the left for 12-yards. QB-Brett Favre steps up in the pocket and is sacked by DE-Julius Peppers.

* First Quarter: 7-3 ~ Packers *

On a fake play action Favre hits Driver for 47-yards. A series of short run plays and quick passes set up the touchdown to Jennings for four-yards.

Three punts later ...

RB-Ryan Grant rushes three times for 26-yards, and Favre connects with TE-Donald Lee for the 26-yard score.

Testeverde can't get his offense clicking, and takes a sack. Pass interference on CB-Jarrett Bush gives the Panthers 25 yards. The next play, Testeverde is sacked on the Green Bay and fumbles. DE-Aaron Kampman recovers the fumble.

* Second Quarter: 21-3 ~ Packers *

Koren Robinson returns the opening kick 67-yards, giving the Packers excellent field position. Favre hits Lee for another touchdown.

Woodson makes an interception, but Crosby's 49-yard field goal is wide right.

Panther's RB-DeShaun Foster rushes for 33-yards and TE-Christian Fauria finishes the drive by pulling in a two-yard touchdown pass.

* Third Quarter: 28-10 ~ Packers *

The fourth quarter opens with three punts. But Testeverde mounts a comeback drive with two passes for big yards, setting the Panthers up on the Green Bay five yard line. He passes up the middle to WR-David Carter for the five-yard score.

Crosby puts more points on the board with a 47-yard field goal.

The Panthers offense struggles with dropped passes and can't put together a final scoring drive.

* Fourth Quarter: 31-17 ~ Packers *

Packer Post -- Installment 59

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers
November 11, 2007

On second and five, former Badgers QB-Brooks Bollinger rushes for four yards. LB-Brady Poppinga hits RB-Adrian Peterson for a loss. Vikings punt.

From the Packers' 18 QB-Brett Favre completes a pass to TE-Donald Lee for seven yards. Favre's pass to WR-James Jones is incomplete. On third and three, Favre connects RB-Verdand Morency up the middle for six yards. packers continue to move the ball down field with short passes On first down, WR-Greg Jennings can't pull in a deep pass RB-Ryan Grant rushes to the left for 30-yards and a touchdown. This is Grant's first career touchdown.

K-Mason Crosby kicks the ball out of bounds, so the Vikings start on their own 40. Their longest gain is a 12-yard Peterson run to the right.

Packers punt on their following possession.

* First Quarter: 7-0 ~ Packers *

Vikings go three and out With a balance between run and pass Packer drive down field. From Minnesota's 45, Favre hits TE-Ruvell Martin for 25-yards Crosby's 39-yard field goal is good.

Packers offense is limited to a second field goal for 24-yards.

* Second Quarter: 13-0 ~ Packers *

Packers open the second half on their 28. Grant continues the ground attack, allowing Favre to strike deep right to Jennings for 34-yards Favre caps the drive off with a one-yard touchdown pass to TE-Donald Lee.

DE-Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila sacks Bollinger for a loss of four-yards. Vikings punt.

Favre adds more points to the board with a eight-yard touchdown pass to Martin.

* Third Quarter: 27-0 ~ Packers *

Vikings drive down to the seven-yard line, but CB-Charles Woodson makes an interception to end the drive.

Favre makes quick works of the drive with a 16-yard pass to WR-Koren Robinson. Then he connected with WR-James Jones for 37-yards. The final score of the game was a 17-yard pass to Martin.

* Fourth Quarter: 34-0 ~ Packers *

Shut out and Sweep of the Vikings.

NFL News
Vikings' Troy Williamson takes personal time away from the team to attend services of his maternal grandmother. He did not play in that week's game and therefore, was not paid. Veteran players met with Head Coach Brad Childress. By midweek, Williamson received the withheld check, which he donated to charity.

Quote of the Week: "Steve Smith was seen weeping at the end of the game quite possible because he had to watch it," Keith Olberman of NBC's Sunday Night Football--Football Night in America.

Who knows ....

Driving home on a 70+ degree October day I saw a man in small shiny blue short runnning down the sidewalk. Bronze. Glistening. Didn't know whether I should be disgusted or rear end the car in front of me.

Earlier that same day i had pulled up to a light and an expensive, white sporty looking car pulled up next to me. I glanced at the plat for some reason to see ExPaid4. I questioned what type of person would flaunt it like that.

I love the Mercedes-Benz commercial where there a shot of the car and a simple voiceover "Why did/do we ..." and a sandy blond steps out from in or behind the car "Because we promised you a Mercedes-Benz, that's why"

I LOVE his voice and the way he says that!

Packer Post -- Installment 58

Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs

November 4, 2007


In Kansas City's opening drive, T-Corey Williams sacks QB-Damon Huard on their 19, forcing a three and out.


QB-Brett Favre starts with two passes for first downs to WR-James Jones and TE-Donald Lee. the drive is cut short with CB-Patrick Surtain interception returned to the Kansas City 31-yard line.


The Chiefs combine a short yard pass and a RB-Larry Johnson rush for a first down. DE-Aaron Kampman sacks Huard for a loss of four on third down.


Starting on their own three, RB-Ryan Grant rushes for 9-yards on two attempts. On 3rd and three, Favre hits Lee for 11-yards. Grant starts getting a rhythm with two rushes for 13-yards. Favre fumbles, but T-Mark Tauscher falls on it for a loss of five yards.


* First Quarter: 0-0 ~ Tie *


Packers aren't able to regain momentum and K-Mason Crosby kicks a 48-yard field goal.


Huard passes to TE-Tony Gonzelas for eight-yards, short of the first down. CB-Charles Woodson gets caleld for holding gives the Chiefs the first down Huard doesn't complete a pass for the rest of the series and they punt.

Packers aren't able to regain momentum and K-Mason Crosby kicks a 48-yard field goal.

Huard passes to TE-Tony Gonzelas for eight-yards, short of the first down Woodson gets called for holding and gives the Chiefs the first down. Huard doesn't complete a pass for the rest of the series and they punt.

Favre is sacked and fumbles the ball, recovered by the Packers and they punt.

Gonzalez pulled in a deep pass of 25-yards to the Kansas City 30. Williams sacks Huard later in the drive for a loss of eight. Chiefs punt.

Third and eight on the Packers 30, Favre passes to Lee for 48-yards. Packers make it to the 18, but settle for a Crosby field goal.

Chiefs go three and out but get a second chance with an interception, by Sapp to the Green Bay 30. Johnson goes down the middle for a one yard touchdown with 18 seconds left on the clock.

*Second Quarter: 6-7 ~ Chiefs *

Crosby misses a 52-yard field, and the Chiefs get the ball on their own 49. LB-AJ Hawk intercepts a pass intended for RB-Priest Holmes. Favre hits Grant for 15-yards and Grant rushes for 12 yards on a 1st and 20. Favre passes to WR-Greg Jennings for a 13-yard touchdown.

* Third Quarter: 13-7 ~ Packers *

Starting on their 43, Kansas City complets short yard passes and rushes down field until Huard hits Johnson for a 30-yard touchdown.

Packers start o their own 40, Favre hits WR-Donald Driver for 49-yards. That's the extent of their drive, ending in a 32-yard Crosby field goal.

Chiefs respond with a 10-yard rush by Johnson, but he's hurt on the next play and doesn't return to the game.

Huard passes deep left for Gonzalez for a 17-yard touchdown. They attempt the two-point conversion three times, because of defensive penalties and Holmes pushes it up the middle for the two.

Favre matches the scoring drives with 11-yard passes each to Driver and WR-Koren Robinson and then a 60-yard touchdown strike to Jennings.

After a revered call that took away a 36-yard pass to WR-Jared Webb, Gbaja-Biamila sacks Huard for a loss of seven and Chiefs go three and out.

Crosby kicks a 45-yard field goal after a 19 second drive.

Woodson intercets Huard and treturns it for 46-yards and a touchdown.

* Fourth Quarter: 33-22 ~ Packers *

Packer Post -- Installment 57

Green Bay Packers at Denver Bronocs
Monday Night Football
October 30, 2007

This game was on ESPN, so you're going to have to dig for your game facts yourself.

Packers' game center with all the goodies can be found here

First Quarter: 7-7 ~ Tie
Second Quarter: 13-7 ~ Packers
Third Quarter: 13-10 ~ Packers
Fourth Quarter: 13-13 ~ Tie

Overtime: 19-13 ~ Packers

Packer Post -- Installment 56

Week 6: October 14, 2007
Washington Redskins at Green Bay Packers

Both teams punt on their first possession.

QB-Brett Favre passes 60-yards to TE-Donald Lee on the first pass of the second series. First and goal on the three, RB-DeShawn Wynn runs it in for a touchdown.

The Redskins QB-Jason Campbell answers after a drive down field with a touchdown run.

* First Quarter: 7-7 ~ Tie *

CB-Charles Woodson intercepts Campbell, but Packers aren't able to capitalize off the turnover.

DE-Cullen Jenkins sacks Campbell. But he recovers well a series later with a 14-yard pass to TE-Chris Cooley.

* Second Quarter: 7-14 ~ Redskins *

K-Mason Crosby misses his first of two field goals, this one for 46-yards.

Favre throws his record-breaking 278th interception. Redskins go three and out.

RG-Mark Tauscher holding call negates a touchdown and Packers settle for a field goal.

The defense scores some points with a Woodson 57-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown.

* Third Quarter: 17-14 ~ Packers *

LB-AJ Hawk recovers a fumble on the Redskins 10-yard line. In what should have been a force-out call, TE-Bubba Franks catches the ball in the end zone. But the non-call negates the touchdown. Favre is sacked on a third and goal, Crosby's field goal is no good. Franks is carted off the field for a knee injury.

DE-Aaron Kampman sacks Campbell on a third and long and then the next possession on a second and ten with 53 seconds to go. Redskins don't have a timeout for an injury and 10 seconds is run off the clock. A false start penalty on the offense ran off another 10 seconds.

* Fourth Quarter: 17-14 ~ Packers *

Commentary
NASCAR racers Dale Earnhardt Jr and Matt Kennesth are on the sidelines of the game. I didn't know they were buddies and Junior is wearing Skins colors. But I'll forgive him, cuz he looks good in red.

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel were also at the game. While JT is watching the action on the field, Biel got a little action from behind from her girlfriend on the sidelines. hmmm

THANK YOU! 4 TDS FROM LT -- ABOUT DAMN TIME!

*Heavy Sigh*

*Heavy Sigh*

It's been a hard morning. The Naughty Sorcerous is Kicking. My. Ass. Seriously.

I've lost count of how many times she's handed it to me. But it's been enough that she's pretty much depleted my whole inventory of combat items and I think I've spent around 40,000 meat on healing items. I don't get it. Yeah, I've been having a harder time with her than I had before NS13. But nothing like this.

Our grey kitten was killed this morning. He was a man of many names: Grey, Neville, Luke, Collins ... and I'm sure the black and white kitten will miss him.

What else? I'm really digging myself out of a hole for the fantasy game this week. If I win, it will be a miracle.

And tonight. I'm so excited. Dallas vs. Patriots. I'm rooting for Dallas, and I love it. I'm sure a little part of my soul died. I really don't want to hate the Pats...but I do. Very much so. I thinking the "hating" came after the second Super Bowl win when the Dynasty talk started. Everyone thinks about them above the game. Unbeatable. Even when they lose. I guess that's the anti-mainstream part of me screaming out .... don't like them because everyone else does! I also have huge issues with Belicheck.

I'm trying not to hate the Patriots, I really am.

But nonetheless. I plan to have a fan-tab-ulas day and I promise to get the Week 5 game online today and start writing for week 6.

Packer Post -- Installment 55

Week5: October 17, 2007
Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers

Deanna Favre is an honorary captain for National Breast Cancer awareness month.

RB-DeShawn Wynn starts the running game out hot with three rushes for 56 yards and an opening drive touchdown. NBC shows a stat that 21 quarterbacks have started for the Bears durng Brett Favre's 15 year tenure.

Bears go three and out..

Favre throws to WR-James Jones for 23-yards. Wynn leaves the game for cramping but is expected to return. Favre is sacked on first down but the Packers then drive down the field with a first down pass to TE-Donald Lee. Jones fumbles the pass and the Bears recover on their own 16, but go three and out.

Jones fumbles on the slant, but again the Bears aren't able to captialize.

* First Quarter: 7-0 ~ Packers *

Chicago converts their first, first down 17 minutes into the game. Bears put their first points on the board with a RB-Cedric Benson 10-yard touchdown run.

On a third and two, Favre passes to WR-Greg Jennings for a 41-yard touchdown. K-Mason Crosby closes the half with a 43-yard field goal.

* Second Quarter: 17-7 ~ Packers *

QB-Brian Griese connects with TE-Desmond Clark for 20-yards, but the Bears settle for a 44-yard K-Robbie Gould field goal.

Packers returner Tramon Williams returns the kick off for 65-yards. Wynn is back in the game and makes a 16-yard gain on a screen and then rushes for six-yards. Crosby kicks a 37-yard field goal.

A Favre pass intended for Jones is intercepted by LB-Brian Urlacher on the Green Bay 19. Griese hits the end zone, passing to TE-Greg Olsen for a 19-yard touchdown.

* Third Quarter: 20-17 ~ Packers *

Neither offense can put points on the board early in the fourth quarter. Griese propels the Bears to the lead with a 37-yard touchdown pass to Clark.

With a 1:58 left on clock, Favre tried to mount a comeback. Poor time management, short yardage gains and a interception deep downfield brought the Packers their first loss.

* Fourth Quarter: 20-27 ~ Bears *

Injuries
Tampa Bay RB-Cadillac Williams is out for the season with a knee injury.
San Francisco QB-Alex Smith out for 2-3 weeks with a separated shoulder.
Carolina QB-Jake Delhome out for the season with an arm injury that requires surgery.
St. Louis QB-Marc Bulger out with knee and rib injuries, with no indication of return.
New Orleans RB-Deuce McAllister is out for the season.
Miami QB-Trent Green has a concussion on low block on a defensive end on an interception return. He's placed on IR in Week 7--With a history of concussions his career in the NFL is in jeopardy.
Arizona QB-Matt Leinert is out with a broken collarbone, Week 6-back up QB-Kurt Warner injured.

Commentary
Good quarterbacks find a way to win, even if the team (or the quarterback himself) make mistakes. With the Bears former QB-Rex Grossman in the game everyone else needs to play perfect because he'll find a way to screw it up. The team gets that mentality and it's hard to break.

I've felt the same way when the Pack is losing--I will them to not make mistakes, because hwo are they going to get out of it if they do?

Dallas QB-Tony Romo plays like Brett Favre--he has fun playing. New England QB-Tom Brady dowsn't have that pure passion and joy. He throws a touchdown like how other people get a cup of coffee. It's a mundane experience, because it's happened before and it'll happen again.

ESPN Radio's Colin Cowherd's Guarantees:
- Dallas scores
- Peyton Manning is great
- The Moss-Brady thing is working
- The rest of the league is up for grabs

So, why is it that when New England, (the former) St. Louis, Vikings (in the Moss Era) offense is pass-heavy, high powered and "the best show on turf" but without a running game no one makes a fuss about it? But the Packers or the Colts last year don't have a run game and they're one-dimensional?

The Packers run screens for short yardage which effectively operates as a run game moving the ball down the field. Wynn is getting bursts of yardage and improving by the carry, but he's not at the point where the Packers need to be to have a consistent rush attack. So why when you're pass game isn't hurting you, and even more, scoring points, why would you try to pound out the run when it's not working?

Packer Post -- Installment 54

Week 4: September 30 2007
Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings

Vikings open the game with good protection of QB-Kelly Holcomb, but they are unable to capitalize and are forced to punt.

The first Packer offensive yardage came from a Vikings defensive penalty. The second would have been a S-Darren Sharper interception but illegal contact was called, wiping out the play and giving the Packers their first, first down. Packers punt on this series.

The defense needs to cover the wide receivers tighter. They are getting too much separation the defense isn’t able to defend the ball properly. This let the Vikings gain at least 10-yards each pass.

CB-Charles Woodson is called for pass interference, the result of the play is a first down in Packer territory. Woodson could have made up for this by intercepting the ball and run it in for a 58-yard touchdown. Unfortunately the touchdown is called back for illegal contact on Woodson—first down Vikings.

Pressure on Holcomb and the ball is striped. Jolly recovers the fumble on the Vikings 48. Favre floats a pass to WR-Donald Lee, who catches it between two defenders on the 19—Sharper on coverage.

Favre changes the play at the line of scrimmage, and it looks like it’ll be a broken play. Favre throws to WR-Greg Jennings for the record breaking 421 touchdown. Game is stalled for a message from Dan Marino, a standing ovation from the crowd (including Viking fans) and a hug from Deanna and Britney.

LB-Aaron Kampman sacks Holcomb for a loss of eight-yards, but the Vikings continue to drive down the field with big yard throws to WR-Simion Rice.

* First Quarter: 7-0 ~ Packers *

With the blitz coming, Favre throws to WR-Ruvell Martin for 36-yards. Favre connects with Lee, but he is striped and fumbles the ball, Vikings recover on their own six.

Vikings defense end a great Packer drive down field with a sack on third down K-Mason Crosby kicks the field goal.

Packers fake a punt and get a first down, but are unable to maintain momentum and lose yards on a reverse to WR-Donald Driver.

* Second Quarter: 10-6 ~ Packers *

Vikings stomp downfield but Harris pushes Williams out before he can make the catch. Vikings stomp downfield but Harris pushes WR-Bobby Wade out before he can make the catch. Holcomb hands it to RB-Chester Taylor for two yards. DE-Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila sacks Holcomb and Vikings punt.

Harris leaves the field to get an X-Ray on his hand, but returns later in the game. S-Nick Collins is shaken up on the play but stays in the game. Vikings’ K-Ryan Longwell kicks a 35-yard field goal.

* Third Quarter: 13-9 ~ Packers *

Crosby kicks a 33-yard field goal and Vikings go three and out on their next possession.

Vikings try to challenge the call that an incomplete pass was a fumble, but the rule is the play is “unchallengable.” Later in the drive, they challenge the sp[ot of the ball and lose the challenge and their timeout. Favre connects with WR-James Jones for a 33-yard touchdown.

Vikings run a hurry up offense and go deep, but Harris knocks the ball down and Collins almost gets an interception. Holcomb passes to WR-Visanthe Shiancoe for 13 yards. Gbaja-Biamila sacks Holcomb, forcing a third and 13, but a facemask call gives the Vikings a first down on the 40. Packers pressure with the front four and DT-Ryan Pickett sacks Holcomb. Holcomb passes to Rice for the touchdown.

Driver recovers the onside kick, but RB-Ryan Grant fumbles giving the Vikings the ball and the chance to tie. On the 30, Kampman pressures, incomplete pass. S-Atari Bigby catches his first career interception. The booth challenges the call, but the ruling on the field stands.

* Fourth Quarter: 23-16 ~ Packers *

Packers lead the division, go 4-0 for the first time since 1998.

Favre is FedEx Air Player of the Week and Nick Barnett is the Defensive Player of the Week.

NFL News
The Miami-Oakland game was delayed for lightning. QB-Daunte Culpepper leads Oakland to victory, scoring five touchdowns.

Chicago Bears QB-Rex Grossman is benched and his replacement Brian Griese throws three touchdowns in the Bears loss to the Lions.

A high snap out of shotgun goes over Dallas Cowboys QB-Tony Romo’s head. He picks it up, fumbles, chases the ball, kicks it and finally is able to recover it. He rushes for a first down, a four yard gain. Then Romo takes it in for a 15-yard touchdown run. A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.

Steelers lose to the Cardinals, undefeated teams are: Patriots, Colts, Cowboys and Packers.

Commentary
The Packers are still the youngest team in the NFL, but this year Favre says he’s more comfortable with his receivers. It’s the first time since he’s had that attitude in three years (the last time they won the NFC North).

Packer Post--Installment 53

Week 3: September 16, 2007

San Diego Chargers at Green Bay Packers

The offensive line stepped up this week and provided great protection for QB-Brett Favre. Because he had plenty of time to look at the field and let receivers get open, he had a big day passing.

The Packers ended their first possession on the Chargers 39 yard line after failing to convert on a fourth and two.

A pass interference call on CB-Charles Woodson put the Chargers on the Packers 25 yard line. QB-Phillip Rivers threw deep to WR-Vincent Jackson for a 27-yard touchdown.

Chargers were called for a personal foul--leading with the helmet--putting the Packers on the Chargers 35. Driving downfield, Favre scrambles, reaches line of scrimmage, fires and is almost intercepted in the end zone. K-Mason Crosby's 28-yard field goal is good.

* First Quarter: 3-7 ~ Chargers *

During an exciting second quarter, the Chargers reverse to RB-LaDanlian Tomlinson for a loss of five. Next play, DE-Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila sacks Rivers and the Chargers punt.

On a Packers third and 10, Favre passes to WR-Donald Driver for 46 yards. A pass to WR-Greg Jennings, back in his first game of the season, goes nine yards. First and inches, Chargers recover a Favre fumble. Packers challenge the call, it’s ruled as an incomplete pass: Packers ball. Second and goal on the five, Favre pump fakes then passes to TE-Bubba Franks for the touchdown.

Chargers drive down field. Rivers passes to Jackson for 12 yards, good for a first down. Rivers passes to Davis for 12 yards--first down. Rivers passes to TE-Antonio Gates twice for a combined 12 yards and a first down. DE-Cullen Jenkins pressures Rivers, incomplete. Rivers to WR-Craig Davis for the touchdown.

* Second Quarter: 17-14 ~ Packers *

Tomlinson scores a 21-yard touchdown on a reverse.

* Third Quarter: 17-21 ~ Chargers *

Packers give the Chargers the ball back on another turnover on downs in the redzone. But Chargers punt after a drive of 27 yards.

In the pass seen around the league, Favre hits Jennings, 57-yards for Favre's 420 touchdown, tying Dan Marino.

LB-Nick Barnett intercepts Rivers and returns the ball to the two. RB-Brandon Jackson takes it in the end zone for the score. Packers put two touchdowns on the board in 64 seconds.

Trying to come from behind, Chargers kick an onside kick after they score a 43-yard field goal. Driver recovers the kick, sealing the Packers 3-0 start to the 2007 season.

The Packers defense makes a stand, allowing 73 yards rushing, 306 passing and 2 sacks.

* Fourth Quarter: 31-24 ~ Packers *

Packer News
Coach Mike McCarthy was Week 2's Coach of the Week. Favre was the NFC Offensive Player of the Week. RB-Verdand Morency still hasn't played a game.

Driver propels himself to the Packers record book with the most catches: 214 receptions.

NFL News
Miami Dolphin's Zack Thomas is out with a concussion.

New York Jets QB-Chad Pennington plays again after being booed off the field last week.

Buffalo Bills TE-Kevin Everett, who suffered a life threatening injury in the first week is transported to Houston for further recovery and rehabilitation. Doctors report he’ll be walking within a couple of months.

Bills QB-JP Lossman is injured and won’t play in week 3-5 at least.

Oakland Raiders QB-Josh McCown is out, Daunte Culpepper will start.

Four teams returned kicks for touchdowns: Texans—84-yards, Jets—98-yards, Ravens—75-yards and Steelers—98-yards.


Commentary
I wish I could go back in time to truly see how many people thought the Packers might win this games—and not just the optimistic cheeseheads. Because I certainly didn't think they had it in them. This was one of the four losses I thought they'd have.

I don’t like the new nfl.com. It takes too long to load. And I have to get used to the new arrangement.

I remember why I don’t watch FOX Sports pre game/post game shows anymore. It’s because they’re stupid. I enjoy Jimmie Johnson, and at times, Howie Long. But put the three (add Terry Bradshaw) together, remove James Brown and throw in random people that have nothing to do with sports and you just completed the recipe for crap. CBS has a much more intelligent crew that discusses the actual games, players and various implications they could have in the NFL.

They have also found the balance between male banter and testosterone. Banter is witty and fun, testosterone belongs in bars.

I came to these realizations after watching FOX’s OT. CBS didn’t have a late game, so I was relying on FOX to give the late scores. They covered the early scores (that they had covered during half time) scrolled through the early games’ stats and then went on to cover next week! I got so fed up after 10 minutes that I flipped the channel. Thankfully NBC had started their coverage of Sunday Night Football, and I was able to obtain my information.

Who would have thought? It figures.

The Simpsons should not come on at 7 p.m. What the hell is FOX thinking? The season premiere started at about 7:15 because the Giants-Redskins game and the following FOX post game coverage didn't end in time.

I didn't see the opening sequence, but didn't think anything of it because I was flipping the channels. A laugh here, a chuckle there and then the closing screen pops up. What?! That was it? How unsatisfying. I didn't realize I didn't see a full episode until I glanced at the clock: 7:30. Oh look: King of the Hill.

Click. (that was the sound of my remove flipping the channel to NBC)

On the other side of premiere Sunday and not a disappointment: Family Guy: The Star Wars Episode.

I was nervous about what it might be like, but it was freakin' sweet. I can't believe Lucas Films let them make half of the jokes--especially "the force" references and everything involving Obi Wan Kanobi/Herbert.

The whole thing made me want to watch Star Wars. And I couldn't help but marvel at the artful animation.

Yes, Seth MacFarlane continues to be my hero. Brilliant, genius, witty. (Seth's first downfall is that he doesn't like Rent)

My second hero is Shonda Rimes, creator and resident writer of Grey's Anatomy. Last season she dismantled our beloved Seattle Grace hospital staff--even those we love to hate. So flash back to the hospital--17 days later. It truly feels like we're back from summer vacation. The first episode was full of twists and turns--everything we've come to expect. We still want to keep Der-Mer together, knowing there will be those ups and downs. Curious at the prospect of Izzy and George. And if Karev can soften there's hope for all of us. Finally when everything gets just a little too heavy we always have McSteamy to cheer us up (even if it's just the memory of him stepping out of that shower).

But enough of my Grey's gushing.

CSI. I'm never watching it again. Mark my words. They teased me over the summer with the hope of Sara's demise. I flipped back and forth Thursday, just waiting to watch her die. But of course that never happened. No long, slow, painful death. While the impact of my loss of viewership may not break their hearts--they lost my loyalty nevertheless.

I stopped watching when they revealed Sara and Grissom were involved. And one season later, I haven't missed them in the slightest. I am never watching CSI again.

Season Picks

Here is my second annual evaluation of the schedule and season picks. Below are my picks in writing so I can be embarrassed or vindicated in February:

NFC:

North
Bears: 13-3 :1
Packers: 12-4 :5
Vikings: 7-9
Lions: 4-12

South
Saints: 11-5 :4
Panthers: 6-10
Falcons: 6-10
Buccaneers: 1-15

East
Cowboys: 12-4 :2
Eagles: 11-5 :6
Redskins: 5-11
Giants: 3-13

West
Rams: 12-4 :3
49ers: 11-5 :6
Seahawks: 7-9
Cardinals 2-14

AFC:

North
Ravens: 14-2 :2
Steelers: 11-5 :5
Bengals: 11-5 :6
Browns: 4-12

South
Colts: 14-2 :1
Titans: 7-9
Texans: 7-9
Jaguars: 7-9

East
Patriots: 11-5 :4
Dolphins: 7-9
Jets: 6-10
Bills: 3-13

West
Chargers: 14-2 :3
Broncos: 9-7
Chiefs: 6-10
Raiders: 1-15

NFC Wild Card
49ers vs. Rams—49ers
Packers vs. Saints—Packers

NFC Divisional
Packers vs. Cowboys—Cowboys
49ers vs. Bears—Bears

NFC Conference: Cowboys vs. Bears—Cowboys

AFC Wild Card
Bengals vs. Chargers—Chargers
Steelers vs. Patriots—Patriots

AFC Divisional
Chargers vs. Ravens—Chargers
Patriots vs. Colts—Colts

AFC Conference: Chargers vs. Colts—Colts

Super Bowl: Cowboys vs. Colts—Colts

Packer Post -- Installment 52

Week 2: September 16, 2007


Green Bay Packers at New York Giants


QB-Eli Manning started and played the game, seemingly unhampered by the injured right shoulder.


Both teams stutter on their opening drives, K-AJ Feely and K-Mason Crosby missing 37 and 43-yard field goals.


Pass Interference was called on an incomplete pass intended for WR-Ruvell Martin, putting the ball on the Giants 25 for a Packer first down. A quick pass to WR-Donald Driver for five yards and then a play action pass to WR-James Jones got the first down for a gain of seven yards.


* First Quarter: 0-0 ~ Tie *


DE-Strahan almost intercepts the ball on a tipped pass, forcing a fourth down. S-Gibril Wilson gets called for roughing the punter, giving the Packers a first down. But a tipped pass intended for Driver is intercepted by Wilson.


On Green Bay's 19 yard line Manning throws deep on third down to TE-Jeremy Shockey. S-Atari Bigby defends the ball, knocking it away in great fashion. LB-Brady Popinga almost blocks the punt on show of special teams prowess that we haven't seen from the Packers since 1998.


Favre throws deep to Jones for 46 yards to the Giants' 30. Screen to RB-Ryan Grant for a gain of 20 and first and goal. A fake throw to RB-DeShawn Wynn, touchdown.


Manning to WR-Amani Toomer, Woodson slips on coverage, gain of 40 yards to Packers 26 yard line. Manning has a huge amount of time to get the ball 26-yards to WR-Plexico Burress for a touchdown.


The next Giants drive, on a third and three, Manning throws 19-yards to Shockey to the 38. LB-Aaron Kampman goes offsides, and in this free play, Manning throws to Shockey again, for a gain of 17 yards. After this catch Shockey spiked the ball, drawing a delay of game penalty. The Kampman-offsides and Shockey-delay of game penalties offset for a replay of third down. Giants lose the 19 yards resulting from the play and the ensuing first down. Drive ends in a 48-yard Feely field goal.


* Second Quarter: 7-10 ~ Giants *


CB-Tramon Williams takes the kickoff for 42-yards, Packers start on their own 48. RB-Brandon Jackson can't get the running game rolling, so the offense advances down the field by two 10-yard passes to FB-Korey Hall. Jones catches two passes for 22-yards. Pass Interference called of CB-Sam Madison, puts the ball on the Giants 11. Favre connects to TE-Bubba Franks for the touchdown.

Pass interference call on CB-Al Harris gives the Giants a first down on Packers 21. Four plays later Toomer gets called for unsportsmanlike conduct for a loss of 15 yards on the Packers eight. This stalls the drive and the Giants settle for a field goal.

* Third Quarter: 14-13 ~ Packers *

Favre hits four receivers for 75-yards, touchdown to WR-Donald Lee.

Packers recover a RB-Ahmand Bradshaw muffed punt return on the Giants 22. Favre hits Driver for a 10-yard touchdown pass.

Manning's short attempt is intercepted by DT-Corey Williams. Wynn runs 38-yards for a touchdown.

* Fourth Quarter: 35-13 ~ Packers *

Packer Post -- Installment 51

September 9, 2007 ~ Opening Day
Philadelphia Eagles at Green Bay Packers

Both teams go three and out in their opening series. CB-Al Harris is injured while on punt coverage during the Eagle’s second series. On this punt, WR-Greg Lewis muffs the catch on the 20, it squirts around and the Packers recover it in the end zone for a touchdown.

The Eagles next possession ends with a LB-Nick Barnett interception on a 3rd and 13.

Packers are driving down the field and G-Daryn Colledge is called for a false start. Third and 11, an illegal contact call is not made against the Eagles and the ball is incomplete to WR-Donald Driver. K-Mason Crosby makes a 53-yard field goal.

More mediocrity from the offense when CB-Sheldon Brown intercepts a pass intended for TE-Bubba Franks.

* First Quarter: 10-0 ~ Packers *

The defense shuts out the Eagles in the redzone, and holds them to a 33-yard K-David Akers field goal. The next series, QB-Donovan McNabb wings a nine-yard pass to WR-Jason Avant to even the score at 10.

QB-Brett Favre scrambles, is nearly intercepted then shovels the ball to RB-Brandon Jackson for a gain of six yards.

Later in the drive, Favre is sacked the first of four times, by DE-Jevon Kearse, who limps off the field.

Poor clock management, and the Packers end the quarter without a field goal attempt.

* Second Quarter: 10-10 ~ Tie *

Harris breaks up a touchdown pass and the Eagles settle for another Akers 47-yard field goal.

Crosby matches Aker’s foot by booting through a 37-yard field goal.

* Third Quarter: 13-13 ~ Tie *

DT-Cullen Jenkins sacks McNabb on a third down, but an illegal contact call on the defense gives the Eagles a first down. But DT-Corey Williams gets a sack on the 3rd down to end the drive.

Favre overthrows a deep pass to WR-James Jones on a third and one, Eagles get the ball back with six minutes left in the game.

Personal foul-unsportsmanlike conduct on the Eagles punt coverage puts Packers drive at their own 34. Drive ends when Kearse recovers a Favre fumble.

One possession later, Eagles fumble on the punt and the Packers recover on the 30. Mason kicks a 42-field goal to win the game.

* Fourth Quarter: 16-13 ~ Packers *


NFL News
In the Chargers-Bears game, the Chargers were at the inches mark in the redzone. The Bears Thomas Harris went into the neutral zone, causing the center to snap and fumble the ball, which the Bears recovered. And there was no call. It was more than clear that the Bears should have been called for encroachment, but since it was a “no call” it couldn’t be challenged. So the Chargers lost a guaranteed touchdown.

Buffalo Bills TE-Kevin Everett is injured on special teams coverage. In the replays, you can see he goes instantly limp after helmet-to-helmet contact. They bring the ambulance on the field and remove him and he undergoes emergency surgery soon after. Later in the week we learn his third vertebrae was crushed into the fourth, but the quick work from the ambulance staff and the hospital, they’re able to limit swolling so it doesn’t sever the spinal cord. Everett is able to “voluntarily move” and doctors say he’ll be able to walk again.

Injuries
Giants QB-Eli Manning separates his throwing shoulder, and leaves the game with a little more than two minutes left in the fourth quarter.

New York Jet Fans get ESPN Radio’s Mike & Mike’s Just Shut Up Award for booing QB-Chad Pennington as he hobbles off the field after finishing the series injured.

NFL confirms that the Patriots were breaking the rules (cheating) when they video taped the Jets Defensive coaches as they were sending calls to the team. Patriots were fined $250,000 and a first round draft pick. Coach Bill Belichek was fined the maximum $500,000.

Teams have also accused the Patriots for scrambling frequencies so the opposing teams' radio equipment didn't work on key plays--which stopped players from receiving the plays.

Turns out the holy Patriots and all the "dynasty" entails isn't as shiny and as untouchable as they would like us to believe.

Commentary
I’m surprised at the penalties and poor coverage from the offensive line. Favre didn’t have enough time to let the receivers complete their routes before he had to scramble and unload the ball. He was sacked four times and hurried many more. The Eagles have always had a respectable defense, but I didn’t think that they would be capable of owning the O-Line the way they did. Pull that together a little more, and with more experience for the receivers and running backs, the offense will be less dismal than they looked last Sunday.

Okay. Why… The hell... Was… Al Harris... Covering... Punts? I heard on the radio that after he banged up his elbow in that opening punt he decided he’s not going to volunteer for punt coverage anymore. Ya think?

And what did they do to special teams to make them all shiny and good? Or were the Eagles special teams just that bad?

With the whole Tiki Barber incident, it made me start thinking about what hills Eli Manning has to climb. It must be hard to be Eli Manning in the NFL World. He’ll forever be (until he wins a Super Bowl and at least one MVP) Archie’s son and Peyton’s brother. When he plays, you always hear the commentators or pre-game guys say “Peyton would have done …”

Eli really just can’t come out on top, because to be anything in that legacy he needs reach the very top. And that apex has been set pretty darn high because of his older brother (and no, I don’t mean Craig Manning). Just think, if Drew Brees would retire today, he would be thought of as a pretty good to excellent quarterback. But match his cards up to Peyton’s? Well, then his deck is barely half full.

Like I said in a previous blog, I don’t have a soft spot for Eli Manning by any means. I’m just saying, it must be pretty tough to be Eli.

Week 1 Questions:
Are they really that bad? Saints, Falcons, Giants Defense, Cleveland?

Are they for real? Oakland, Detroit, Vikings, Cowboys?

My Week 1 NFL Picks: 13-3

Fantasyism: The first half the Charger-Bear game when the Chargers didn’t score a point (more so my No. 1 Draft Pick: LaDanian Tomlinson didn’t score a point) was karma slapping me for hating on Phillip Rivers while Brees had his tenure at the Chargers.

Enough Drama, Get to the Football

Tiki Barber, former New York Giants running back, now a commentator for NBC Sports, made comments about his former team and quarterback in August. The long and short of it, he bashed QB-Eli Manning and said he wasn't a leader. Eli respectfully defended himself, and the team rallied behind him.

I've always had respect for Tiki Barber, he seems like a good guy off the field. But, I think he's absolutely wrong for calling out his team and Manning so unprofessionally.

Now, don't think I'm saying this because I have warm and fuzzy feelings for Manning or the Giants. I don't.

I agree that Barber needs to comment and offer his opinions about his former team--it's his job. Okay. But what I take offense with is that he wasn't professional with the way he did it. Because Tiki didn't just offer his thoughts. He slammed Manning. It all felt like very personal comments, and not an objective point of view.

And isn't it funny that no one from the Giants has said that what Tiki did was okay, because he was just doing his job. Of course, they don't agree---but they don't hold any ill will against him. I think Barber crossed a line and burned a whole lotta bridges in the process.

The whole Michael Vick drama deluted the pre-season experience for me. After he made his deal, I thought everyone would settle down and move on to football. Unfortunately, Whoopi Goldberg (and since they've started talking about it on ESPN Radio again) others are defending Vick because dog fighting is ingrained in his culture. He was brought up with it so he doesn't know any better. I'm sorry, but those rationalizations are inexcusable. I would tend to agree if it was a child, high school kid or someone who's never left the "old neighborhood."

You can't say a grown man who has millions of dollars, college education, works and lives in the framework of the NFL doesn't know any better than to brutally murder a living creature. He absolutely knew that it was illegal. And entering into a contract where there are certain expectations of your behavior on and off the field, he knew that in the eyes of the NFL it was wrong.

Look at all the men who've raised themselves above that old behavior. There are so many players that do so much good with their money and celebrity.

I've never been a Vick cheerleader, but I've never had any gripes against the guy away from the field. I'm not feeling as forgiving as most. That apology wasn't enough.

"The second half was a mob hit. No one saw it coming." ~ Eric
Caslious, ESPN Radio

Referring to the Colts scoring 41 points in the season opener,
shutting out the Saints in the last half of the game.

He wasn't what I wanted, what I thought now. He wouldn't even open up the door

Whenever someone makes an argument about equal rights, he/she always counterpoints with "Women can't have it both ways. If they want a job with an equal salary, they have to open their own doors."

And there oh-so-many ways I could go with this ... so I'm going to cut straight to the point.

I like it when men open doors for me. -- It shocks the hell out of me everytime.

I'm not sure if the men from my generation do that anymore. I know in my entire family, I've never seen a man open a door for his wife, girlfriend or daughter--unless of course their arms were full of stuff. Even then, another woman would open the door or she'd set the stuff down and do it themselves.

When I worked at the station, I know Pat never opened a door for me. But that's okay, he wanted to toughen me up. I would have never let him open a door for me either--because we had that type of working relationship.

And I pretty sure none of the guys I've dated have open doors, I woulda thought I would remember that.

The older (and when I say that, I mean older that me, so 30's and above) men I've worked with always open doors for me. Like I said, it floors me. They quicken their step when I step through to make sure they get to the next door before me. Wow. I wonder if I hurt their ego when I open doors for them?

I'm an equal opportunities person. You can do whatever you want to do as long it doesn't hurt, belittle or degrade someone else. If a woman wants to stay home with her children, that's perfectly fine. Just don't scoff at another mother who can't make that decision or doesn't make that same decision for herself. And so on and so forth. There's plenty of examples about challenging traditional roles of society that I'm not going to touch on.

When a man opens a door for me he's just that--a man. A gentleman. He's smart, has manners, is polite and was raised right.

If you don't open the door...well I'm not going to write you off as a jerk, but I'm not going to be as impressed.

Think about that.

Go tell your mother ...

So. Parents. They raise you, they love you, they scold you.

As everyone knows, I've always had a great relationship with my mom. She's the best. We had some rocky times in the "Stacy's Mom" era, but I'll let bygones be bygones going through midlife (and/or empty nest) crisis's.

My dad, not as good. I think it turned south when I stopped liking the visits to the hardware store. It only escalated when I started disagreeing with him and talking back. Not to mention the fact that we are very alike in personalities, especially when you're looking at our stubborn side. But somehow, someway ... he started talking to me after I moved away. Figure that. Dad still insists on talking to me in the morning before I've had my coffee and the obligatory 30 minutes "wake up time." But oh well, I suppose.

My mom has this odd way of conning me into work and getting me into trouble with her little adventures. "Let's go look at the pond," she'll say. Three hours later, I'm wet from fishing out a Frisbee. It starts with going down to the water's edge (fun). Then we move a couple rocks around (fun, but makes you start to sweat). Then Mom sees something in the pond, so I go in to pick out (fun, with wet feet). Here it comes, "Well, since your feet are already wet, why don't you go in further to get that Frisbee out." As I'm waist deep in water, looking at her dry on the shore, I realize I've been suckered again. And how the hell did this Frisbee even get in there, it's not ours...

One would think I would learn and start saying no---but it took me 21 years to realize she was doing it in the first place, so who knows how long it will take to see them coming and head them off at the pass...

And as if having one cunning and ruthless (okay, I'm taking some dramatic license here) mommy isn't enough, I've also been "blessed" with a second set of surrogate parents. And they're crazier than my first set. I try to think back now, to remember how it all happened.

Here's the cliff notes version: In college, newspaper advisor says the big man in SS was asking about you. I shrug it off. I get a call from the registrar in the SS office asking if I want to work there. Okay, cool a job. I remember the interview ... was really an interview? Asked about my hours, I said newspaper comes first. Asked how fast I could type.

I was intimidated by Tiff and Kim's relationship, and all the things I needed to learn about the office. Soon, I was spending more time there than anywhere else on campus. Then, whoohoo a summer job! Other than being locked in the dungeon it was awesome.

Somehow or another, I befriended a Viking fan *gasp* And I was told that I was the younger version of Kim. I think the parent thing started when Kim went to the business office. I think I was supposed to convince him to give her the plant...

The epic War of the Plant from the Copier Room, spawned the "Go tell her..." growls. I think this resulted in the "He's a loser come work for me." Which begot the "What can she give you that I can't?" retaliation. She countered with "He keeps you in the dungeon and I buy you pretty stuff" and the villagers cowered at "Go tell your father..."

But what probably blew the ship out of the water was, "I don't care about sparkly stuff, she left you. Who signs your checks? Who's your daddy?"

And that, ladies and gentlemen, was the shudder heard 'round the world.

Oh the stories I could tell... How about the time that she (this tale recounts the time when I was there, I hear this trick is still an active one) snuck into his office so much stealing mints that he went through a full bag in a week or so. He buys new mints, fills it up and gives me (me?!) the executive order that she is NOT allowed in the office. Especially HIS office.

I plead the fifth and will not say anything that can be held against me in the court of jeffy ... but the long and short of it is that she came in and hid the mints.

And guess who got blamed? Yepper, yours truly. However, I had the "locked in the dungeon" story as an alibi and remained in both their good graces.

And so the saga continues. They are the king and queen of bicker and banter. And for people who are supposed to be vying for my affection, I seem to be caught in the middle. I hear more of "what did you tell her, and you're ratting on me" as well as "make him think this, do this for me" then "Stacey loves me more."

And let me tell you, though both are amusing, I much prefer the competition of making Stacey happier. After all, we all know how vain I am.

So Friday, I fall into the same old pattern again. And, like true parents, I tell one something and the other one instantly knows about it. And, unlike my real parents, "my mother" scolds me for having to hear it from "my father." (And as a side note, I'll probably get yelled at for blowing that cover, because the father didn't know that I didn't tell the mother.)

Alas, at least my real mommy loves me, even though she tricks me into working.

As an Era Ends

Last night, or this morning rather, I finished "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." It took me three days to read it. And now before you "I read it in two days or less" people scoff at me, I could have finished it in one day if I wasn't being all responsible and sleeping because I had to work so pffft.

When I started reading it last night, I didn't even intend to finish it. I was thinking about 50 pages would be fine and then I'd finish the final 250 pages today. I started at 9:51 and ended at 12:15. Once I started I couldn't stop. I told myself I was at an exciting part, just get to lull and end. Well little did I know there wasn't a lull. I don't think there was a lull in the whole book.

After I finished it, I watched television for 10 minutes to distract myself from it. I could feel my heart pounding from the whole exciting ordeal. There was a point last night (probably about 10 seconds after I closed the book) that I wanted to open it up and read it all over again. As far as I can remember, I've never wanted to read a book again right after I finished (with the exception of There's a Monster at the End of This Book). And I've only done that with a handful of movies.

It was such a good book. So much so that I can't imagine there ever being another Harry Potter book to top it. There are some things I wished JK Rowling would have covered before she ended it. I'm still satisfied with the ending, so I'm tryng not to think about it. But somehow thoughts of Harry and the gang keep edging it's way to the back of my mind.

Well, enough of Harry. *sniffle*

I'd say for the past month or two I haven't been in the mood to cook. I don't know if it's because it's summer, so I'd rather be outside or I don't want to make the house hotter by using the oven. But I've had no interest.

I got that interest back yesterday. I made a cucumber salsa, fresh tomato sauce, gnocelli (which I'm sure I'm spelling wrong, but am too lazy to look up--they're little pasta-like potato dumplings), stuffed zucchini and this morning I made zucchini bread. I used half wheat flour for the bread, and it's not as good as all white flour. I find that odd, because most other recipes using wheat have turned out better than their all white flour verisons.

On a KoL note: I just hit level 12, and I'm still working on the Quest of MacGuffin's Diary *coughdirtybastardcough*. I've gone through this quest faster than last time around. I need to get a dusty bottle of Marsala (that's NOT dropping!!), fight Lord Spookyraven and do the Pyramid Quest, and then I'm done.

Unfortunately for my stats, I'm on day 26. It's been so busy that I haven't been able to get my adventuring in properly each day. Plus I missed three days of adventuring last weekend.

Disco Bandit skills suck. So, I'm not sure what one to make permanent. The attacking ones are practically worthless.

I've been in pre-season football heaven: three days, three games! I'm jotting down notes and getting names for fantasy football. Plus it's just a rush to see it again. Oh, how I love football. I missed the first quarter of last night's Packers-Steelers game, and I didn't get to see Ben Rothelisberger play. Very disappointed.

Flustered

I feel all out of sorts right now. My collar isn’t sitting right, the printer is too loud, the air is running and I can’t hear my radio.

What a start to a Monday morning. Plus my coffee is cold and it’s not even 10 a.m.

They would not listen, they did not know how.

I was going to crack out another random blog for you, but on “Sunday Morning” they reported that today was the day Vincent Van Gogh died many years ago. So I'm going to give you the blog that I wrote a month or so ago about my favorite Van Gogh piece: Starry Night.

There's something about Starry Night that has always captivated me. The first time I remember exposure to it is art class when we had to do our own depiction--was it in paper or tempera paints? Of course then there was that "Boy Meets World" episode and Mr. Hagen's Starry Night tie. I don't think I ever studied it formally--we tended to study form and function over history. My high school art teacher wasn't smart enough to cover it. I do remember it in our World History book.

But why Starry Night? Maybe because all the art we studied in Spanish class was so rigid and overtly religious centered with very realistic styles. Even Picasso’s dramatic depictions didn't strike me the same. Maybe that's because Picasso is so much ingrained in our culture that it didn't inspire me when I was first exposed to his works.

There's a whimsical quality to Van Gogh's paintings, not just Starry Night. Van Gogh used colors very much ingrained in my internal palette: deep blues, purple, splash of bright colors like yellow and red. The painting simultaneously feels very vast and intimate. Sometimes all I can see is the looming sky, frightening with its swirls. But the glowing stars are also comforting with a village nestled under them.

And that shape in the foreground. Sometimes I wish it wasn't there obstructing my view, but without this large looming spine, the picture would lose its balance. I don't always see the object (and what exactly is it? rocks, fire?) sitting there. Somehow I look past it. I wonder if that's how Bob Ross (that guy on PBS) got his inspiration for the big dead tree or ugly bush right in the middle of his beautiful paintings. Maybe all this time he was taking his cue from Van Gogh. And here I thought Bob was a radical.

Jenny bought me Starry Night for Christmas and then two of his iris paintings. Well, that sealed the deal.

Another reason I think Starry Night draws me in is because it seems mosaic, and I've always had a fascination for mosaics.

When Trading Spaces came on, I contemplated what my fantasy room would be. After some time it became clear that it would be a Starry Night room, though in what form, I could never picture.

But then it came to me. Why try to recreate this masterpiece in a different form--emulate it. So we bought sponges and the richest, darkest blue and purple we could find and the yellow closest to starlight. Without any guide other than my love for the painting, I sponged this dark blue paint on the wall. Soon I figured out how much was the right amount of paint on the sponge and just how much pressure to apply.

It was a leap of faith, one that consumed me and soothed my soul for seven days. I'm so proud of my room the transformation it underwent.

To go to the New York Museum of Modern Art (MoMA for those familiar with the term) and stand before this painting was truly great. I've stood in front of many other paintings wondering how it would feel to see this one. When the real moment came there were no choirs of angels singing or epiphanies--but I was awestruck and captivated. I wanted to stay there longer to study it, so my only disappointment came when I knew I had to keep moving.

I floated through the rest of my day--for I had been so honored to stand before Starry Night.

Pictures (top to bottom): Starry Night at the NYC MoMA
Swirl on my north wall (complete with Iris
Painting, though not a van Gogh).

Close up of wall to show "brush strokes." I used a round sponge with
little circle grooves to dot on my yellow texture for stars as the first layer.
The second layer I used a flat sponge with broad groves to emulate his brush
strokes.

The last picture is a corner of my room...two walls meeting. I continued my purple swirl onto the next wall, similar to the continuing swirl in the painting.

If I could, I'd only want to make you smile

I don't have any organized thing to blog about, so I'll just chat with you. It's like the Fireside Chats ... except there's no fire by my side and I'm not-so-presidential.

Last week I ascended--my first since NS13 roll out. I should have counted how many times I had to go back and get healing items. It wasn't pretty. So much for my "Defeated in One Try" wand of Nagamar collection.

I'm been in a huge M*A*S*H* phase lately. Almost every night I watch one or two episodes. In June I started from the beginning, and am at Season Six. Now we finally have all the seasons. I'm not sure if I ever saw the last episode.

I checked out Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix from the library last week. I want to read it and 'Half Blood Prince again before I read 'Deathly Hallows (hollows?). I think I might get them in. But it might be close. I reserved my copy of the new one about two weeks ago, and I'm number 47. For whatever reason they had two lists, and the other one was 141. I just need to finish the Robert Ludlum book I'm reading and get to Harry.

Last week Hok got kicked off So You Think You Can Dance?. Oh well, I guess. There are still the other ones I like. Wade hit on the head with Lacey, she's very talented and a good performer. But she's also one-dimensional. With her and Danny, I think the judges (at least Mary) won't kick them off, unless they really mess up. Mary said when Danny and his partner were in the bottom three, "You're not going home this week." If I was Nigel I would have kicked her under the table. You can't say that until they do their solo...because that's what you're supposedly judging them on.

Each time when I log into blogger, the dashboard gives me an overview of my writing history. X posts, last edited on such and such day. This morning it told me that I've made 130 posts. I've been blogging for two years, so that's about five posts a month. Which is about right. I wish i would have way more than that, but it's lack of inspiration and lack of typing time that limits me.

What have I been doing with myself? Writing, reading, working, watching M*A*S*H*, working on my tan ... yup. Oh yeah, and adventuring.

Save the Earth—or Leave Your Conscious at the Tone

For as long as I can remember, we've been warned about global warming. They taught it to us in school--the Earth's atmosphere is deteriorating, letting in harmful rays. They would eventually raise the temperature of the Earth, melt the ice caps, so on and so forth. This damage isn't something that can be fixed, but we can make changes so we don't hurt the planet any more than we need to. It was taught to us as fact.

But all of sudden (using a Seth MacFarlane phrase) in Bush's America "global warming" was a theory. Not only that, a laughable theory from the Chicken Little's of the world--giving another reason to hug a tree or prevent destruction of some natural resource which would decrease that one percent's profits. Keep buying those suv's, hummers and the like. So you're spending more than $100 to fill your tank. It's merely the cost of luxury, and well worth it. Wouldn't you say?

Last summer, a group of scientists met. From different countries, renowned each in their own field. And as far as I know, they weren't considered alarmists.

And what was their conclusion? Not only was global warming a fact, it was here. Our climate and so much more has been changed and damaged almost beyond repair. It's warmer, weather is more volatile and animals are in danger. None of it is a coincidence, all of it is really happening.

Shortly after, a documentary premiered "An Inconvenient Truth," telling us what dire conditions we have created and what will happen if we ignore it. Many brushed it off as Hollywood going political again, shock entertainment, passed off as the truth all in the name of making money.

Then we find out Al Gore spear-headed the project. Oh, well then that changes things. It's the guy who "invented" the Internet drumming up publicity, trying to re-invent an image that could get him elected. (Does this tactic sound familiar? When there's something we don't agree with or don't want to believe--we label it as an exaggerated bedtime story, meant to scare little children. People of America! Don't believe these follies! Don't fall for this story, you're much too smart for their lies! Burn the witches, women are dangerous ... er, I mean ... global warming doesn't exist, he's just trying to make a run for president! Hmmm.)

Skip ahead to this summer, Al Gore has organized a series of concerts, Live Earth, to raise recognition for global warming. The amount of negativity surrounding it astounded me. The guy who organized "Live AID" to raise money for fighting AIDS in Africa said everyone knows about global warming, why do we need recognition for it? What's the point?

The point is, everyone KNOWS about Global Warming, but we have to fight eight years of denying it exists. We need to put it in front of people. We need to show every person that they personally need to change the way they live their life. It doesn't take millions of dollars, it takes small changes. Then it takes the power of numbers: millions demanding change from corporations, industries, governments.

There was also criticism that the concerts were adding to the destruction of the Earth. Millions of people gathering, creating waste with cars, tickets, shirts, garbage---bands in buses, electrical equipment. Not only that, people were coming to hear music. Not to save the world. No one would pull anything but some good tunes from that night.

Gore said that these concerts were green. Meaning, they were different than normal, using environmentally friendly stages, equipment, etc. I can't speak to what was different. But even if one artist changed the way they will tour, they will change their lifestyle to be more green, that will help.

Sure, not every concert goer got the message--but maybe some of them did. Or maybe some will adopt some green lifestyle changes, without quite knowing why they should. It got publicity, and maybe during that more people learned little things they can change to be more responsible.

Yes, global warming was there and had a voice before Gore. But the people in power in this world don't listen to the guy next door or the small-ranking scientist. Like it or not, Gore can generate money and this money might produce results.

So what's next? Since I was taught in school that we should each do our own part to save, conserve and recycle I went to the Web site: http://www.earthlab.com/ to learn more about how I can live greener. You can answer questions to see what your impact on the earth is. How much carbon you're creating. Then you can learn about ways to lessen your carbon output. Easy things that aren't expensive--or that don't cost money at all (maybe even save you money!). Then, if you're so inclined, you can keep reading and taking action by changing the way you live.

I saw last week on the Sunday morning show, that it costs more money to recycle plastic bags than it does to landfill them. So the majority of the bags are going to landfill, destroying the water, killing wild life or just simply taking forever to deteriorate. Now, I'm going to make an effort to use cloth bags. It's going to be slow and a hard adjustment. But it's important. Not to mention that we have a shit ton of plastic bags laying around the house.

Okay, maybe you don't buy this because it's coming from a liberal, tree-hugging hippy. I can accept that. But you can still do small things to help make the world a better place to live. Recycle, conserve water, make the choice to use less plastic when you have the opportunity to do so. If nothing else, check out the Web site to see how you can make changes to live greener.

Your children and grandchildren will thank you.