Robbing Him Blind

While I'm Up at 7 am

2010-10-13T07:37:00.003-04:00

Typing that title just made me realized I missed Boy Meets World...which is on at 7 am. Dammit.

Moving on.

I know I've been neglecting this blog, but in all fairness, I've been neglecting school work, actual school, cleaning my apartment, and my cat. Thankfully, only one of those can actually bite my ankles. I had a post saved from the Philly pre-season game, but posting that now would even be out of whack, even if I were Versus or Sabres.com.

First of all, when did we go into a losing streak? Mike Harrington has a post saying that it's our first losing streak of the year. A losing streak is losing three and more games (I base this on nothing, or a little about how our losing streaks are 8-10 games a year), so tonight will make that call.

I feel like saying ' but it's the New Jersey Devils' can go both in a good and bad way (like Tampa Bay, Shelby).

I have this irking that Patty is going to play, and so does Shelby. Again, based on nothing than our never dying hope for that man. It doesn't fit into the pattern of the two times a year Patty does get to play, but it's worth a hope. Maybe if not, this weekend (fat chance).

I'm excited or Hank to be back tonight, and I'm sure not many people are. From the looks of it, he's been doing very well with the Devils, which is all you can hope for when a player you adore leaves. He'll probably score on us.

Shelby and I, due to her undying kindness, are going to the game tonight (we also went to the home opener, but other than our excessive screaming, body slamming of Rangers fans, and Jordan Leopold, who wants to remember THAT). Our Rivet jerseys will finally be debuted in the regular season (unless Patty plays, HA!) after being worn for the Toronto pre-season game...I think. Or maybe we didn't...I dunno, either way, big night tonight!

When...er...if we lose tonight, THEN it's a losing streak. Maybe, I dunno.

I still haven't been able to form an opinion on this Pominville thing. I was at work when it happened, and only got brief updates from Shelby from my phone that was NOT hiding in my drawer (my manager seemed puzzled that I knew the updates of the game, but didn't ask questions). I suppose not seeing it first hand took away from my shock of it, because I knew almost right away that he was, for the most part, alright. By the time I had gotten home, he had a concussion and was alive.

I cannot recall the last time a Sabre was taken off in a stretcher, not even that ugly Danny Briere hit back in 2006 (I think). Not even Zednik, though that was a much uglier situation than this. It was a dirty hit, that's for sure, but until someone dies, it's going to keep happening.

I'm not going to lie, as soon as I found out he was okay, I thought maybe a little time off for the guy would be...uh...good. And for some reason people think that Saturday, at the end of the agonizing two game suspension, will be some sort of blood shedding event. I know it's Chicago, but we are better than them.

Also, random thought of the day, today (well, last night) marks the four year anniversary of the October storm. And when I look out my window, I see the same thing I saw 4 years ago...grass.

H-H-H-Hockeyville

2010-09-29T17:23:00.002-04:00

So, I just started looking on Getty Images at the pictures from Sabre adventures in Dundas, and it kinda just crossed my mind that this was actually such an awesome thing for the little town.

Last night, we were discussing how it was good that we didn't go, because it was really important for the town (they probably would have sniffed us out) to have their own thing.

I live ten minutes from the arena, and can decide at 6 pm if I'm going to a game, and obviously not everyone can do that with a team. Dundas is close to both us and Toronto, but its not the same luxury.

Seeing those little kids standing in the rain waiting for players, and seeing the players stand there getting wet to sign for them, and handing out pucks, and going to their schools really tug at the heart strings. You know it's a good time when Lindy gets involved. Lindy interacting with little children is like watching a walrus juggling: you don't expect it, you don't know what to do when it happens, and it's so cute to watch.

Even the little things like this!

All the players that were spoken to commented on how they were once in the little kids positions (even Lindy, though he was never a little kid). I can only begin to imagine the thrill for them. I spent the first four years of my life living in a town outside Montreal that was so small, you didn't know it was there unless you were almost out of gas on the 40, I'm sure something like that there would have been tremendous (and they would have all been rooting for the Sabres).

And, and even bigger treat, we beat the friggin Senators! Without Thomas Vanek scoring! Granted, it was their B-team (Chris Neil doesn't count, hes lucky he's not on the Y team), but we're desperate, we'll take it!

Though I must say, the high point of the evening was Shelby yelling six stories down (she was in my apartment, I was walking into the building) that Thomas had the A. I love that weirdo.

Not to mention, I could have scored the first goal, but it's something we can hold in our defense when they're kicking our ass in the coming months.

I must say, I am very fond of Mr. Niedermayer (can't imagine many who aren't). I was so excited when we signed a Niedermayer, I didn't care which one it was. Even if his signing bliss only lasted mere hours until Patty signed, it's still awesome.

I was annoyed when Tyler got more of a cheer on the red carpet when they were together. Nothing against Tyler, I know he had a great year and everyone is excited, but it's a friggin Niedermayer!

He has the bushiest beard EVER, his gray hair indicates wisdom, HE KNOWS WHAT THE FRIGGIN CUP LOOKS LIKE!

What he's doing here, I don't know. I just hope no one makes him wonder that....

Necessary mommy picture, classssssy

Fancy, Boys!

2010-09-27T10:03:00.005-04:00

Maybe there's something about the off season that just deflates me of all hockey decency (Darcy Syndrome) because the first preseason game always reminds me of the tactics of attending a hockey game. Especially when going with Shelby.

Saturday, as we know, embarked as the last team to start their pre-season. Once again, it was against the Leafs, once again, we won (I feel like we're not allowed to lose in pre-season, or against the Leafs), and once again the Sabres arrived in style.

Or so I'm told, to be perfectly honest, a certain event at the red carpet wiped my mind clean of basically everything but my social security number.

Shut up, you adore it! Jordan Leopold, you get credit for trying (and for naming your daughter Jordyn), but no.

Nice try getting me to learn to appreciate you, bonus points there.

Anyways, on to the game portion of the night.

We were early, of course, because of the red carpet event. Shelby and I are rarely early to the game unless it's San Jose or for some reason I miscalculated. Our typical routine is arrive, buy raffle tickets/poster, head to 100 levels for warm ups. But I was so busy running around the arena to find our one friend who works the concession stand to show her the adorableness above, that didn't happen.

Come to think of it, when I saw them coming out for warm ups on the screen, I was kind of like ' oh, right, they do that.' None the less, very excited to see that Mr. Timmy was wearing an A, and not even that shocked that Robbie had one too. I have a feeling that is going to stick.

Shelby and I sat in the 200 section, as you can see my the clear cups (I'm sure she's glad I didn't use the other picture of our drinks that night). I would save up to sit there during the season, at least for one game. I'm all for situations where you don't have to stand up (except for peanut butter pie, totally worth it!).

Pre-Season is always interesting in the sense that you watch the games and, even on the other team, are you puzzled by numbers and names that you've never seen before and, in a few days, won't see until next pre-season.

Never the less, it was nice to see new guys, Robbie and Shaoooone, play for the first time. One thing that irked me on the red carpet is that people cheered louder for big Tyler than Robbie when they were near each other. Yes, he won the Calder, but for crying out loud we have a NIEDER BROTHER!

Sigh, hopefully over time. He did score, so, bonus points.

I don't know, I never see the point of re-capping the jist of the game- if you didn't see it, you already know. Robbie scored, Nate broke half his bones taking out a Leaf, somehow we won with a rookie goalie in net. All impressive, yes, but why should I bore you repeating it?

Instead, I shall leave you with this:

She was pointing to the mean fans who are mean to her daddy!

Lets see how the big guy does tonight!

You Can See Hockey on the Horizon...Unless You're Toni Lydman

2010-09-19T19:16:00.003-04:00

Yesterday at Puck Drop was very similar to three (four?) years ago.

Watching players, some that you can't name yet, come out from behind the curtain in " new" (that term being used both to say that no, they're not and ' dude, you leaked it, Sabres) jerseys. I must say, my reaction was relatively the same.

" Hey, look at that"

followed by

" Well they're not as bad as I thought"

followed by

" We really need to not hire Stevie Wonder's cousin to make these bad boys"

and then

" Why is everyone so constipated?"

and finally

" Who is going to spend money on this crap?"

Fast forward six months, probably me. Once the slug debuted, and I didn't care, it was that February I found myself owning one. However, am I the only one who really doesn't mind the slug? It's not that bad, unless you're totally ignoring the New York Islanders and the bad things they have come up with.

Hey, we can always get it right for the 50th anniversary, right? Or, as I plan to call it, " Patty Lalime's Retirement Year" and I'll be 33, ick.

Really the only thing " new" coming from Puck Drop yesterday was that it's pronounced ' Shaun' not ' Shane.' Shelby and I have set ourselves up for nine months of ' ....Shaun' ' who?' ' Shane!'

Also in the " new" category, Shelby and I FINALLY owning the Craig Rivet jerseys we promised ourselves...I don't know when, actually. Originally we were going to share one, but thankfully the economy improved enough so we wouldn't have to. I can justify spending $45 on a jersey, and even though Craigory is in what COULD be his last year, it's more logical than spending $150 on a logo we also had last year. But, what can you do?

Moving on.

This time of the year, I like to take a look at pretty much anyones training camps, just because you're so happy everything is slowly returning. And thank you to Darcy, there's always a new team you pay special attention to, because players you still adore now call there home.

There's been little information about Hank in his new home (other than, as of right now, he will be wearing #7), but the Devils are having a hard time on reporting on anyone whose name doesnt begin with the letter K and ends with olvachuk. Yeah, if he thought Ryan Miller was bad...this guy has an accent.

Wayyyyyyyy out in California, Toni hasn't even an ice rink yet. Actually, he's seen two. Shelby told me earlier in the week that Toni is already going to miss some time with an eye injury. Turns out he's suffering from double vision, and NO ONE for the life of them can figure out what it is.

It's California, if Botox can't fix, they don't know what the hell to do.

Ducks fan(s) are already mad that he's hurt, but until they see Tim Connolly break his spine from sneezing too hard, they don't know what real problems are.

Hopefully he's back to his normal, angry self soon. Four Sedins on one team? That's pretty harsh. At least it didn't happen to him, two Hanks I'm sure he can handle, but two Roys? He'd leave all over again.

Speaking of seeing double, I actually don't think Toni left.

That is apparently Jordan Leopold, but come on, we're not stupid. That messy, blonde hair totally says ' I'm Finnish, love me!'

Until he turns around.

But if we're careful, we'll never have to see him do that.

Just a Little Clarification

2010-09-08T08:23:00.003-04:00

Like Halloween, the Patty bashing seems to start earlier and earlier every year.

People, did no one watch the NHL Awards? Geez.

Anyways, I started off my senior year bickering with one of those girls who think they know so much about hockey, but really can't come up with a response longer than two syllables.

Also known as Derek Roy fans.

This person was also a Tim Kennedy (it gets worse, she also likes Pominville) fan, and she thought making not-nice comments about Patty all last year would not come back and bite her in the ass.

We all know different.

So, just in case people have not removed head from rectum, lets just make sure we're all at least on the same page.

Not a Sabre, despite uniform

Currently a Sabre, hat included.

I found this while browsing Google for pictures and thought I would use it for my own reminder, seeing as this one is just not sticking in the ol brain of mine.

He, in case you missed it, is also a Sabre.

Not pictured, Scott Niedermayer

Poke...Poke...Jab

2010-09-04T11:37:00.002-04:00

Oh, hello there blog.

I swear I usually great ideas for blogs (or mildly good)...but then there isn't much capacity left after I have to remember my email and password to log in. Ugh.

Anywho, I motivated myself for this one. I was in the shower this morning and had a realization, other than the fact that I need a new razor. Puck Drop is two, count them TWO, weeks away! Crazy things happen when September first comes around and you realize hockey events are happening THIS MONTH.

Two weeks is nothing, and then we can actually see living, breathing HOCKEY PLAYERS. And new jerseys (bleh) and what not.

And what comes after Puck Drop? TRAINING CAMP

After training camp? PRESEASON

After PRESEASON? A small break and then...

Well, you know.

It's going to happen so quickly, so I will go through my usual stressed out rants about getting home opener tickets. This is on top of paying for Catwalk and a new passport. That's the order of my priorities sadly. The passport is not necessary until December when we head to Ottawa for possible death.

Thankfully, everyone is signed -glares at Drew Stafford- so my own irresponsibility-ness is all I have to be stressed about.

Oh, and starting school on Tuesday. Bleh.

Ohhhh Mr. Sylvester!

2010-08-20T23:29:00.002-04:00

So...I'm a cashier at Tops. I know, it's so glamourous it's hard to handle, but what can you do. Those Sabres tickets aren't going to buy themselves...I tried.

Anywho, night shifts mean smaller orders but dumber people. We had issues tonight because I was the only cashier on register, and a lot of stuff needed to get so I was back and forth off register, usually only there when people moan and groan because the self scan is sooooo awful.

Moving on.

A guy came into my line just as I was trying to put my close sign up, and I even put the sign around the groceries he had on the belt. He made a comment about it being rude, but I think it was a joke because I said I was just trying to get away but I could still take him.

As I kept watching him and listening to his voice, I kept thinking I know who this guy is, but it wasn't clicking. Then, something in my head told me to search for dimples, and I did. The mystery man wasn't smiling (no one in Tops ever does). Instead of keeping everybody waiting, I just blurted it out:

" Are you Kevin Sylvester?"

Not to be mistaken with past tough questions such as " are you Jason Spezza?" and " are you Rick Jeanerette?"...those these seem to happen every two years.

There was a pause. Looking back on it, I don't think it was that long, but long enough for in my head to go ' ahhhh, he's not.'

But, obviously if he wasn't, there'd be no blog post.

He said ' yes' the way I said ' yes' when my dad asked me if the tattoo on my ankle was real...like you were sorry the answer was indeed ' yes.' Maybe he's like the Patrick Lalime of broadcasting- adorable, but isn't sure if anyone really likes him. Then there's Tamara, secretly in love with him.

I told him, while laughing, that I didn't recognize him. That was actually true. The man was in shorts, a t-shirt, and a baseball cap. What do we usually see Kevin in? Suit and tie...he's usually talking to the guys IN the baseball caps.

After a brief chit chat, I told him that I was one of the two girls that approached him at the end of the season with the Patrick Lalime bobblehead to get a picture.

.........

And he looked at me as though there were multiple occasions. Maybe, and that is a big maybe, I'm not the only owner of said bobblehead in Buffalo, but I am the ONLY ONE who went up to Kevin (with multiple other adventures) for a picture.

He eventually did remember, most people can recall events with the terms ' Patrick Lalime scrapbook.' He was then concerned with whether or not the scrapbook actually made it to Mr. Lalime. I had to think for a minute before responding ' yes...during the playoffs!'

We both had to remember there was something called the playoffs recently in Buffalo.

Then there was something about being able to see Rob Ray's head from a mile away (that was my response to Kevin saying he gets asked if he's himself a lot, I think it fit at the time) and a brief statement of the places the bobblehead went (I stopped when he looked concerned).

Regardless, I had a smile on my face for the rest of the night.

Oh, and he had a bonus card.

Thank you for shopping at Tops.

Not Dead

2010-08-05T13:09:00.000-04:00

Just out of service...like Tim Kennedy.

Back to the Office

2010-07-19T14:07:00.002-04:00

I have to admit, while not blogging I've had a ton of ideas for posts with all that has been going on in the wonderful of hockey.

Then, I come back, and they're all gone. Maybe in all the dealio of remembering my password, it knocked the rest of my ideas out of my head.

Anyways, Sabres.com actually did something useful and gave me something to work with. Yes, they're usually behind (they may not know Hank and Toni are gone, hell, they might not even know that Danny P left). As you may have forgotten, they've been doing yearly review stat counts on various Sabres. ' Various' being three since the offseason began, despite the ad saying ' weekly'.

Mr. Tim Connolly appeared to be their choice for this ' week' following Yo Yo Hecht, Jason Pominville, and now useless to compare Hank Tallinder. For some reason I thought Tyler Myers was covered, I'm almost sure the Sabres.com search is lying and he was, but maybe because he's the only player ever mentioned on the site lately, I just assume that.

Back to Timmy. I was nervous to look at the stats. Personally, I don't think Timmy had a bad season, but that means nothing when it comes to getting ripped apart by Sabres fans. He lead the team in assists, set a team record for consecutive points, and did not die. January of this year marked an entire year that he didn't have a boo or TB or something.

Not until the final games of the season did he indeed suffer a very common hockey injury, not spline falling out or other awkward Tim Connolly injuries. However, until his loses a testicle on the ice, Sami Salo is still the winner, and until a stray puck strikes him on the bench and breaks his arm (I doubt nothing), Hank is still the Sabres king for awkward injuries.

In conclusion, keep doing whatever it is you're doing Timmy.

Just don't tell us about it

Three Password Reset Emails Later

2010-07-18T05:37:00.002-04:00

I've decided to come back.

And similar to a certain Sabre also returning, I don't think anyone is going to like it very much.

Stay tuned :)

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

2009-12-12T00:07:00.002-05:00

That is all.

Little Guys and Swedes and guys named MONTY!

2009-12-10T07:09:00.002-05:00

Last night, Shelby and I had an epic plan to spend the night together baking, watching the game, and work on our newest project. We haven't watched a game together since the Montreal game...which is a long time, at least for us.

Then my friend Connor called me to tell me he had his grandpas season tickets, and wanted me to go. I really battled the idea in my head...I hated the idea of ditching Shelby, and I had to bake something for channel 2 today. Also, the weather wasn't really on our side (still isn't).

In the end, we went. And, I am SO glad we did!

Right away, we could tell they were already doing better than Monday (not like doing worse was really a possibility). Because of the angle of our seats, we saw the first goal go right in. And, we thought it was Natey, just from how it looked, and we were screaming for the little guy.

Then, they announced it, and it was MONTY. For a second, Connor and I were like ' oh....OH!' So, of course, major excitement that Monty scored, since we weren't there for his first goal, and defensemen don't usually score a lot.

However, I kept thinking Gerbe would score. I don't know why, he was so determined in his pre-game interview talking about it, thinking if he scored he wouldn't have to go back to Portland. And, sure enough, he did! And when he did, we knew it was him, and everyone was SO excited for him, which they should be! Patty was ready to launch off the bench and on to him...which would have been painful. I'm sure they discussed this last weekend in Portland...well, Nate talked about it, Patty just sat there.

And then...THE SWEDE!!!!! What an epic night! 2 defensemen and a rookie. AND...a shutout. Take that, Ovie!

I love the way this team bounces back after being shut out...by shutting out. However, I get the feeling Ryan Miller is about to snap. He needs a hug and a nap, and some hot chocolate.

Especially in this shit...

Oh Medaille College, how you make me risk my life for pettyness.

Double Poop.

2009-12-08T08:18:00.002-05:00

Last night was awful, just awful. It doesn't take much to overturn the soaking wet feet I had when finally getting into the arena, and last night was not even close.

Ryan Miller deserves no blame, and coming from me that means a lot. The second goal may or may not have been his fault, but it sure as well was not the game winning one. Years from now, when reminicing to his 14 children from 10 different women, Marty B can talk about how he tied the 103 shutout record with ten fucking shots on goal.

Goose was probably hanging himself in the press box, Chris was probably crying. And Patty was sitting on the bench thinking ' I conditioned for this crap?' I swear that's what he said to Ryan at the end of the game.

And Mike Harrington did have an interesting point about Patty...I know I always go off about him, but is last night really worth spending much time on? Especially since the Sabres didn't. Anyways, Mike said that conditioning Patty all weekend to bench him for a week is insanely stupid, and it is.

Apparently he's going to play against the Rangers. It's a shame, since Shelby and I are going to the Chicago game (I don't like being seperated from her, I don't). I think Patty only starting on the second of back to back nights isn't helping anyone, since he already will have a tired team....

Shelby just told me that Lindy was bitching on the radio about Jason and Roy. Thank youuuuuuuu! Frankly, I'm surprised they haven't found a way to blame Patty yet...or Drewseph.

Speaking of my wonderful long haired blondie, her and I have a special surprise coming later in the week....and unlike the Sabres, we shall not disappoint.

Omggggggg People!

2009-12-07T14:44:00.002-05:00

Today in my speech class, I had to give a presentation on the pro-choice movement as part of my final (part of the trick was we didn't know our topic until we got up there).

At the end of the speech, people were allowed to ask questions. As you can imagine, based on the topic, it's basically getting torn apart at the waist.

One thing I had to keep repeating during my responses, as well as throughout the speech itself, was that pro-choice doesn't mean pro-abortion, it means you're just all for whatever people want to do with their bodies.

Then I realized....

My class is a lot like ignorant Sabres fans. You know, the ones who don't read too much past a headline, assume that this means that and the like.

I recently had to delete yet another comment from the bully known as doomerang (bully being there is no site, just a name made up clearly to look all tough and hot shit on someone elses blog). He went on and on about how our back up goaltender lost to AHL teams.

Because Patty was totally familiar with the Pirates, right? He had totally played with them before, knew their style, had time to get together with them, see how they all blended together.

OH WAIT!

My bad...

Lets take another trip back to his 44 shots on net Friday night, which earned him first star. That's certainly more than Ryan did against the Rangers ( NOT INSULTING RYAN NOT INSULTING RYAN NOT INSULTING RYAN NOT INSULTING RYAN...he just seems to be everyones hero) but Ryans not getting his ass kicked for that loss.

Honestly people, if you're going to use enough of what little brain power you have going when reading this to type a comment, don't sell yourself short, actually read! Go beyond the first sentence, I know you can do it!

Awww, Poop.

2009-12-05T22:18:00.002-05:00

- I would like to say the Sabres lost, but, that would involve playing in the first place...

- I'm really glad it didn't go to a shootout (hahaha, Shelby). Because, we all know Al and his deal. When he graced himself on the bench this morning at practice, everyone was excited (including us). Many of them rushed over and sat around for the Al Kotalik story hour.

I support anything that gets Adam and Toni smiling. And I mean anything

- If you think the Sabres did bad, you're right. Just kidding, not really, but look at the Caps and the Flyers...8 to 2! This is after firing the coach. I know it takes time and all, but geez, can people not understand that it's not always the coach? Such a shame, replace him with another fired coach. This is going to suck...if you're a Flyers fan.

- Atlanta played, and won in a shootout. For the first time ever, Max did not score.

- Going back to the Flyers for a second, there are rumors that Richards is going to give up the C. Frankly, I think that's dumb. If he thinks he cannot hold the position, he should have realized that over a season ago! Suddenly it becomes evident when the team goes through a bad streak? Give me a break. Part of being the captain is being there when the times are tough, not just when you're in the playoffs you bitch.

- The Pirates lost, 3-2. It wasn't that bad of a game, at least compared to Buffalo, haha. Patty did the best he could with a back to back game, and I'm sure he was exhausted with the work he did last night.

- That being said, Patty Boy is coming back!

Wawoo!

Patrick Lalime > Abortion Power Points

2009-12-05T14:09:00.006-05:00

I have major school projects due in the upcoming week, BUT...this might get my brain going, no?

First off, and this is most important.

MY BOYYYYY!!!!!

Last night, the Portland Pirates lost in a shootout to the Providence something-or-others. BUT! With Mr. Patty Lalime in net, the game MADE it that far, because of 44 shots on goal, he only let in two!

Because of his stellar performance that was sensed by me even through refreshing the game page, Patty earned FIRST STAR!

FIRST STAR!!!!

Huzzah!

Though I'm still not pleased with the arrangement, I'm very happy he did so well! Hopefully the streak continues tonight.

Following my seizure when seeing the star news, Shelby found this little gem on the Portland site...and she loves that I slipped on a blanket when seeing it.

Lookin' good!

I didn't mention this before (Shelby did, though), but wearing my Patty jersey to the Montreal game the other night broke it's ugly streak. After one pre-season game, the Atlanta game, and the Ottawa game, it has finally attended a winning game. Technically, I count the preseason game as a half, because the half that Patty played, he won...

Yay!

Lizards and Kitties and Tim Connolly as Batman.

2009-12-04T07:48:00.004-05:00

Last night proved pretty much what we had all expected.

- Shelby and I are pretty much too weird to go back

- We are not comfortable with going to Sabres games with people who are not the other one (though my dad will be an exception when he comes home)

- Our ' inside jokes' if you will have become so real to us that we forget that they are indeed not real. This would be fine if they were harmless, which they are, but not when we start talking about Patty Lalime's kitten to other people....like Patty Lalime.

Speaking of Patty Lalime!

I need to learn not to get bad information while I'm driving. Such as re-singing Grier, or Patty being sent to the AHL.

Now, I don't expect people to really understand where I'm coming from on this? Because, well, no one TYPICALLY cares about the back up goalie, and for some reason Ryan gets dragged into an argument that has nothing to do with him...but, that's how it goes with some people in Buffalo I suppose.

I was livid when I found out that he was going, which was a big step from planning a Portland trip when it was just a rumor. Though I did calm down when I found out it was only for two games (if they weren't back to back games this weekend, I promise we would have gone to a game), I was still angry.

It's not because he's not in Buffalo, it's because the whole damn thing does not make sense. Yes, I do know that Patty needs to play this month and in the upcoming months because of the two weeks this city will self combust with no Ryan. And, they want to warm him up for the condensed schedule, but, can he not ' condition' here? Instead of with a team he is not familiar with against teams he'll never see again.

Maybe that just makes too much sense, like most things with goaltenders and this team.

Now it just feels awkward. Because he's the only Sabre NOT here. And he's all alone in Portland, where it's cold (cause it's so warm in Buffalo...) and lonely AND WHAT IF THE OTHER PIRATES DON'T LIKE HIM?!

Jhonas likes him, but he's here!

Okay, I'm done overreacting. But, my gift to Patty today is....

Stay warm, buddy!

I'm still holding out for Chi Town.

In non psychotic news, the Sabres won 6-2 last night...much better than an OT win, no? And, despite them winning when we left the arena, the Bills lost...not such a big shock.

Also, Ryan did not do a post game interview...after a win, and when he did so well. This can only mean one thing...he's dead, clearly.

Sabre Hotness Melted the Snow!

2009-12-02T19:33:00.002-05:00

Wowwwwww, that was lame.

Anywho...

- I love Kevin, I just do. First off, he seems like an all around good guy. But most importantly, his blogs are the only reasonable piece of Sabres information out there, which I'm sure I've touched on before. The most recent post states that Ryan is doing well, which he is, but also the defensemen and their improving.

He also mentions the brutal month, line changes, the ' grey' area in Patty K's suspension, and eating a light bulb in Philly.

Once again, I love you.

- Patty K's interview today made me giggle. Basically, he's still angry and can't wait to bunch a bitch...and he giggles when he says it, so, bonus.

- Ovie got suspended. That's not news, but hopefully suspending a super star will send the necessary warning. Like Patty, Alex claims he will not change his style of play. I don't think Alex intends to hurt people, but cannot understand that he will should things keep up. Hopefully, everyone stays alive.

- I fell asleep before the Sharks and Sens game last night. However, it doesn't look like I missed much. Dany got two assists, and second star, the Sharks won, and nothing seems to be that interesting. If it was in Ottawa, however...

- CRAIGORY MAY BE BACK TOMORROW! I know he may not be horribly important to some, but, he's the captain and it will make Chris stop crying.

- I'm going to three games in the next week. With my luck, Patty will start in the one I don't go to....

- Last, but not least, it's someones BIRTHDAY!!

That's right, today is the 40th anniversary (heehee) of the Buffalo Sabres!

I could only think of one thing to get them:

Haha, jk!

Now, I have to make a fake website about a fake pizza party for a fake school involving the real Ryan and Goose.

Stellar.

How Swede It Is.

2009-11-30T23:23:00.003-05:00

First off, I will be very excited to read Heather's blog post when and if she stops dancing.

Second, WTF little voice in Tamara's head. I KNEW we were going to regret not going to this game. This is why decisions should not be made during games in which the Sabres are currently being shut out, because clearly then they WILL shut out (Good Job, Ryan!)

Third, did I mention the Swede scored?!

B-b-b-b-boyah!

There was no dance, maybe because it was enemy territory, or he wasn't sure that it was actually him that did it. Nevertheless, YAY!

His present for scoring.

Also, no thanks to Versus for cutting to some post game nonsense BEFORE the goalie lovin'. Don't they know Patty is most excited following a shutout? Geez.

Oh...apparently Tim Kennedy and Yo Yo scored as well.

Also, while napping in our radio station today at school, I heard something on ESPN about Marty and a magnificent save. Not that I would consider it NEWS, but if ESPN is talking about it, it must be somewhat important.

I cannot find a video of it yet, basically it rolled down his arm so he slid out of the crease. Good stuff!

Puck MINE!

Minor Change at RHB.

2009-11-29T20:20:00.002-05:00

I know that this doesn't apply to many people, but I figured I can make a statement while I'm at it.

I changed the settings on the blog so that it's really kind of impossible to leave comments, and I have to review them if you even go through the trouble to post them.

As much as I welcome debates and the like, I cannot stand no named people bitching whether or not I praise or dump on certain players. I'm mad at Ryan, BAD I'm not mad at Ryan, BAD!

Not to mention that I don't consider you listing a bunch of stats to be much of a defense.

So, that is that.

....really this was to Shelby and Caroline, haha.

Ohhhhhh Sabres!

2009-11-29T07:54:00.003-05:00

How many time have we watched the games where the Sabres come to life in the the third period? And how many times have the Sabres come to life in the third period when the other team collapses at the same time? Well, last night.

The curse of Shelby and Tamara going to bad games was officially broken last night. Usually games her and I attend are 1-1, or 2-1....a defenseman or two are napping on the bench. The only game I've been to at HSBC, the shut out of the Islanders, she wasn't there. So, we were just starting to accept it.

We were going to start accepting that we would be that team that lets Carolina win....

Oh yeah, then Mike and Derek and Clarke and Yo- Yo and Vanek score (we did sit down when Derek scored, like we always do)...all within two to three minutes of one another. I hate when it takes them awhile to wake up, then it's too late. Maybe this time they just wanted Carolina to only FEEL special....

The one goal that Ryan did let in was horrific. At least, it was on the time. After he made 30 saves over all and did an amazing job, it's totally cool. I've never seen the entire arena get up and cheer over a save. Then again, it was an awesome save, and it's not like anyone was doing anything else at that point.

My friend dubbed the game to be a " Lalime Game" because the goalie does something, but then is the only one doing so. Luckily, that changed. Now if only they could do it with the real Lalime....

To be honest, I think now I only go to games hoping to see the goalie lovin'

Not Pictured: Last Nights Goalie Lovin'

Ryan would totally be lying if he said he wasn't looking forward to THAT at the end of every game.

Keep it Classy, Philly!

2009-11-28T07:41:00.004-05:00

There was an article in The Buffalo News yesterday that had Darcy saying the losing streak would end. First of, duh. We're 1/4 of the way through the season, of course it was going to end. But, that aside, Darcy was actually right about something for the first time since....well, I'm not sure.

My poor roommate who works overnights, and thus sleeps during the day, was probably rather pissed yesterday afternoon (but is so kind, she won't say anything). The constant screaming of our living room probably had people think we were being killed. But, when you're playing the Flyers, you're not that far off.

First off, I love that Timmy came off of a little rut. I wasn't worried about his little slump, everyone is clearly going through one and what not, but now he's at seven goals and people will go bug someone else for awhile.

Drew always seems to score when we need something to happen, which is good. He always seems to score first, or one of the first, but as long as he did it. And Goose! Who isn't excited when he scores.

I will admit I was really angry with Ryan when he let in two goals in something like thirty seconds (I get confused with the time clock, especially when they keep changing it). But, he redeemed himself and overall I think did very well.

And nothing gets the full tummies on Black Friday going for Shelby and I like Craigory fighting. Not to mention, Craigory fighting TWICE! The Philadelphia Inquirer says that Carcillo won both fights, and I think that's a load of crap. The second one I am not sure of, but Craig had it going in the first. Surely, Craig is past his PRIME fighting days, and is way above fighting little shits like Carcillo, but kudos none the less!

It's too bad Craig had to go to the penalty box and be a little bitch, spending five minutes complaining like a little five year old, which then got him kicked out.

Oh wait...that wasn't Craig.

Unfortunately, as we all know, Mr. Craigory did leave the game early. Ignoring the fact that we're in a bit of a pickle being without our captain and our back-up captain, I'm still rather ticked about what went on when Craig did get hurt.

It's not the hit that bothered me, though the Philly fans cannot seem to move past that detail. It's that when a player- whether it be our captain or their rookie, it does not matter- is carried off the ice because he cannot even walk, and what do the Philly fans do? They boo!

Don't get me wrong, we all boo the opposing teams. But ANY game I've been to in HSBC, when an opposing player is clearly VERY hurt and can't get up, when he finally does get to the bench, we clap! When Leclaire went down, then got back up (for a bit) in Ottawa, Shelby and I were clapping, and we're the bad guys!

I will admit I liked Philly when Marty was there. When Marty was there, the team had a chance to redeem itself from the reputation of being dirty players and be an actual team (playoffs twice in a row, once making it to the conference finals). But now they're right back to being the scum that everyone knows they are....adding Pronger and Emery did a lot to that.

And it would appear as those most of the fans have gone the same route. Booing an injured player?! That's just disgusting. But really, what can you expect? I read something about how a Philly player kept trying to egg on Patty K, and he woudn't go for it....but Hank went for something in there! Yeah!

For the sake of all that is good, I really hope Craig and Goose make speedy recoveries. If anything...so Roy doesn't get the C. Ugh.

Shelby and I are attending tonights game. We found a somewhat good deal on tickets, and are rather disgusted in ourselves for going, haha. We almost bought tickets for Toronto, in Toronto, but then the team was shutout and we said no. Yesterday raised our hopes, so let us hope for the best!

Come on, it's Carolina!

On that note, how cute are Hank and Patty's daddies? OMG!

Awww, Shucks.

2009-11-25T23:29:00.004-05:00

You know when the Sabres are just stinky enough that you become numb to it? You lose, and you don't care because, after awhile, you just expect it?

That's where I'm at.

But, what can you do? Except sit and wait for the million dollar men to ' work the system' as Jason Pominville would say.

Ah well.

We hear ya, Ovie.

p.s- I think Ryan did good tonight. Stop the presses.

I Really Think I Hate This Team

2009-11-25T10:17:00.005-05:00

A few things since I'm already pissed off:

- I woke up this morning to a text from Shelby saying there is ' speculation' the Sabres are going to ' upgrade' whoever backs up Ryan. First off, I think our starter needs an upgrade, but lets not go there now.

Fine, trade Patty. I honestly cannot give two shits about this team right now. Get Marty back, get a more ' stable' back up, and then watch when the team still blows it in front of him. Ignore that Lindy said it wasn't Patty's fault, ignore that Hank said they let him down. What do they know, right? Egotistical fans are the ones to trust.

Though I must say Kevin and his blog shed some light on an already crappy day. I can always count on him:

I hope the fans that have criticized Patrick Lalime paid close attention to his performance in Ottawa because he was excellent. The only shot that he saw that went in was the second Daniel Alfredsson goal. He made some downright great saves to keep his team in the game and others to keep it close late. Any player on the team would second my assessment and hopefully you saw Henrik Tallinder’s post-game comments on how they let Lalime down.

- When I got home on Sunday night, a friend who lives near me told me that someone (I'm sure I'd know details if I wasn't asleep leaning against my apartment door when he told me this) said fans would not be happy until Roberto was backing up Ryan.

Yeah, and I won't be happy until Heatley is on our top line. Let the dreams go, people.

- I love how Patty, who- along with Drew and Patches- were the only decent players on Saturday night is suddenly the one in trouble because of that game (it being his second start of the year, afterall). Not Roy for missing the net 754 times, not Pominville for the 37 giveaways (I don't care if he scored, Patrick Kaleta scored and he's not suppose to do that) but PATTY, for seeing one of the 5 goals that went by him.

- Toni Lydman in the background of Pominville's interview from yesterday is rather amusing. After just sitting there laughing, he takes off his skate and slowly runs his fingers on the blade, as though to say ' lets see Hamilton open his mouth again.'

- Leave Thomas Vanek alone. Seriously, his seven goals are not satisfying enough by Ryans save percentage that's higher than my GPA and Derek and Jason picking their asses every shift is just fine? Ugh.

And now, I waited for the ' OMGZ NOOO I LOVES RYANS!' comments...

- sits back-

The Ottawa Trip (Now With 35% Less Uses of the F Word)

2009-11-23T18:34:00.002-05:00

The final score has been tallied.... Ottawa- 5, Tamara- 4.

I know what you're thinking, pretty stinky. BUT...still...better than the Sabres.

As for the recap, here is when Ottawa struck:

The Game:

Well, we all know how that went down. And, my last post, though harsh, covers that enough. However, there was been new developments since, such as:

- Not ONE SINGLE SOURCE HAS BLAMED PATTY!!!! I am in shock that not even Lindy or The Buffalo News, the two biggest Ryan Miller theoretical fanny kissers out there, are saying goaltending was not the problem. I'm sure there are still over bias psychos that think it was his fault, but it surely wasn't. I'm glad he finally gets a break when he deserves one.

- I really don't like Tyler Myers. I honestly think as soon as his ten games was up, he started to suck. He figured, like other Sabres, he was here to stay so it didn't matter how he played. I even gave him a chance to redeem himself, and nooooo. Go back to juniors, Stretch! At least he makes Hank look good (well, Hank IS good, but he helps) thus, no Swedish trade.

- I really hate Tim Kennedy. However, that is not new.

- I did fight back a tad bit, such as laughing when they showed the top goal scorers in the league, and (though I don't know how) DANY HEATLEY IS NUMERO UNO! And when Alfredsson scored (both times) I yelled that a certain one-eyed German had more. Just sayin...

My Wallet (two points):

- Sunday morning we wake up and realize, Tamara lacks a wallet. I don't think the real panic ever hit me. We drove like mad men back to Scotiabank, all the while realizing that it was Sunday and...well, it's friggin Sunday.

Thankfully! After venturing into the players parking lot and going through the one open door in the gigantic arena, I was a mere feet away from the security desk. The guy there immediately went ' Tamara?' and I basically started crying. He had my wallet, safe and sound, an usher found it in our section, and it meant we didn't have to spend the night in Ottawa.

I even hugged him, but I'm sure he gets that a lot.

My Phone (two poitns):

Following the reuniting with the wallet, we went to Dennys to celebrate (shut up), which consisted much of ' OH MY GOD I CAN'T BELIEVE I FOUND MY WALLET!'

Once back in the car, however, we realized my phone wasn't in the car.

Anywhere in the car.

Nowhere in the restaurant.

Which meant, it had to be at Scotiabank. AGAIN. So we headed back there, AGAIN. My friend checked with security because I was too stupid to go back there, and I searched the parking lots. The only theory that was making sense was that it was on the roof of my car and I took off, leaving it God knows where, but my hopes hung on by a mere thread because the phone was still ringing, which means it wasn't off or smashed.

Shelby went to check in the YMCA that's attached to the arena, I called the phone again to see if maybe we could hear it in the car. Then, suddenly, a man answers!!!! He said he found the phone in the parking lot, and asked if I wanted it back (WTF!). He was at a mall about 20 minutes away in a sketchy area, parked in the far corner of the lot, and seemed a little disappointed that I did not show up alone.....

Tamara!

- I found my wallet! A 20,000 person arena, a girl from out of town, but I found it! Take that, bitches!

- I wasn't raped or mugged, and I got the phone back! Though I will forever ponder why one would remove a phone from a lost location and take it with them? Other than being sketchy, why not leave it where it was found so when the dumbass girl realizes thats where she left it, she would go back to it....

- The drive was pleasant, both ways. We made excellent timing both ways, and did not hit any problems. That is, if problems do not include Shelby going through an ez pass lane at 75 mph...and then asking me if we had to park to switch drivers.

- This

I promised myself I would find this guy. When we snuck to the lower levels for warm ups, he was the first person I saw (so it was a sign we were meant to go down there). I chased him for a bit, and when he finally stopped I went up to him and said ' You're my favorite Senators fan!' and showed him the 40 on the front of my jersey.

While the picture was being taken, we discussed how Patty was playing tonight and how we both got our jerseys when he signed with the respective team...because, that makes sense and all.

All in all, not bad, I think. I'll end this nonsense with a few ' happy' pictures from the trip.

Patty showing what time we left my apartment at.

Arriving in the city.

POUTINE!!!

Scotiabank! An updated picture...

Patty and Patty.

The rest of the pictures on my Facebook can be found here:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=38626256&l=e5c1ae2d61&id=90400158

Fuckkkkkk Me.

2009-11-21T23:29:00.003-05:00

Not Pattys fault, not Patty's fault, not Patty's fault!

I have never been so disgusted with hockey as I was with the Sabres tonight. To literally almost be in tears, and wanting to run away from a game as early as possible is a new feeling for me, and I don't like it.

Mind you, being awake since 3:30 this morning likely does little to help.

It was somewhere around their third goal that Shelby and I looked at each other and said ' Patty is going to get the blame for this.' And it wasn't his, MAYBE one out of five goals, but not all of them. Between power plays, and being screened, and just having no help, this was not his battle.

Not Pattys fault, not Patty's fault, not Patty's fault!

By the last part of the third period, I was bad at everyone...even Monty. Not Staffy and Patches...they were probably hiding under the desk in the press box.

It was just awful...awful, awful, awful.

Jason Pominville just sucks. He shouldn't just be over the power play, just off the team. What bugs me is that we killed off what was close to a 2 minute 5 on 3, but we cannot do shit with our power play? If Chris, Craig, and Timmy can do wonders there, why is the power play tainted with Roy and Pominville?

I'll try to do a better post when I'm not exhausted and pissed off. I have some interesting pictures, including a friend I never knew I had (the crappy hotels crappy internet connection won't let me do much)

Not Pattys fault, not Patty's fault, not Patty's fault!

It just made me sick.

Other than the craptacular team, the experience was not too bad. I wore my Patty jersey, Shelby had her Pommers one, and my friend Sammy wore my Lydman one. We had comments about Buffalo sucking, and the like. But encountering fellow Sabres fans made it better. Thankfully we didn't get much on the way out.

...could be because we took off our jerseys. Who knows.

Not Pattys fault, not Patty's fault, not Patty's fault!

The Final Countdown.

2009-11-20T19:05:00.003-05:00

Shelby and I are currently sitting on my bed, Tylenol PM coursing through our veins ready to knock us out to get up at 3:30 in the morning.

We're not even watching the Sabres game tonight, it'll be awkward to wake up in the morning/middle of the night to know what went down....like Craig scoring a hat trick.

I hereby leave all my personal possessions to Toni Lydman. You know, in case it ends bad...

Bring it, O-Town!

Penguins Return and Fail, Max is Still Awesome

2009-11-20T07:40:00.000-05:00

That's all I got really.

Make a big deal about a team that plays like crap, make a big deal about the so- called crap player who has more everything than half our top lines.

I love the Russian!

Patty Never Let in Five Goals.

2009-11-19T12:23:00.005-05:00

It's not a secret that I hate Ryan Miller.

My reasons have been stated, re stated, criticized, lather, rinse, repeat. However, I do admit that at times I maybe am too hard on him. I am quick to assume problems are him, when in cases it may not be and I'm just angry.

Last night, it was him.

I called in to my internship today over a sore throat I cannot get rid of because of last nights horrid screaming. I was yelling anything from telling him he ' sucks' to how he should inform Tim Thomas on Friday that he will be the starter in Vancouver. Usually I'm not too vocal with any hatred (or praise, for that matter) to any player while at the game.

And I certainly have never found a chunk of cement in the back of the arena to consider throwing at him.

See?

After the Panthers second goal, I had a feeling we were in trouble. He was more concentrated on slashing at one player to even care what another one was doing...which was, indeed, scoring the goal. And three goals in two minutes, I dare anyone to try to blame defense on that one.

I guess our superstar isn't so super, is he? I'm sure there are the weirdo fans out there who will go all out and try to find someone else to blame.

Like Patty.

Or Toni.

Or Dominic Moore...who I totally forgot played for the Panthers until he scored on us. Seems to be a trend.

At least one thing is for sure, the two most deserving players who have gotten the cold shoulder lately are smiling as they know they will have hard ice time this coming weekend.

Opposing team pictured totally coincidence.

Shelby and I leave bright (errr, it'll still be dark) and early for Ottawa on Saturday. Hopefully these two boys will be there as well. It would make the trip totally worth it.

Atlanta Game > Florida game

(that just reminded me to do my math homework)

Since When...

2009-11-17T19:25:00.002-05:00

- Do NHL rookies in their first game score when our 6 million dollar top liner does not?

- Does Dany Heatley have 14 goals?!

- Are Hank Tallinder jerseys go on sale...right next to Danny and Jaro's

- Do I know exactly when the phone at WGRZ is going to ring?

Why am I only happy after a loss?

2009-11-14T12:22:00.003-05:00

The Sabres won last night. Blah blah blah shootout blah blah blah fights blah blah blah.

I was more than excited that Patty returned to...the bench. And you would THINK that making his return AND there are back to back games, that he would play tonight against Philly.

Well, if you were thinking that, you must have forgotten that this is the Buffalo Sabres. We don't use our back ups until someone gets hurt, and THEN you play them and THEN you yell at them for being rusty.

Why, it's perfect!

There was an article online that it may be too soon for Patty to take on a starting game. So, when would it be a prime time?

The day before the Olympics?

The day after?

When we play a team whose first two lines are in a coma?

When a blogger finally snaps, breaks both Ryan Millers legs, and leaves him for dead on a city back street?

We lost against Philly once already. Not loss, were destroyed and believe it or not you giddy ass kissers, HE DID HAVE AN EXTREME PART IN THAT LOSS! Not to mention how late last night went and they didn't get to Philly until about 2 am.

But that's cool, I'm sure Patty is fine with his skull caps and fold out chair.

Just wait until a tired goalie can't drag his ass through the playoffs.

On a happier note, after gaining four points last night, Maxy is now ahead of Derek in points, goals, assists, and +/-. I guess making good decisions is just not this teams things.

Represent!

2009-11-13T00:46:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to Shelby for bringing this to my attention.

For the record, if you google ' patty lalime naked'...it's the 5th thing listed.

I Hate When I Must Choose Between Napping and Blogging.

2009-11-12T13:50:00.002-05:00

This just in! (or maybe it was before my nap)

PATTY CAKE IS BACK!!!!....to sitting on the bench. But BACK NONE THE LESS! Ohhhh there go my high hopes that he'll be playing in Ottawa next week when Shelby and I go.

But yay!!!!!

Yay!

Kind of perfect timing in a way. Jhonas is going to play on the Pirates tonight then head back with them after the game. I am so excited for tomorrow nights goalie lovin!

PATTY!

Okay! Moving on to my original plan for this post, last nights game (which did not include Patty).

- I'm really afraid that Clarkie's hit last night on Reddox is going to become a big deal when it shouldn't. Though I'm very hopeful that he's going to be okay, it's obvious Clarke meant no harm. It was a tiny hit with a big fall. And p.s- Oilers, when someone is trying to help your teammate, don't smack him in the head! Duh!

Buffalo Sabres left winger Clarke MacArthur (notes), right, checks on Edmonton Oilers left winger Liam Reddox (notes) after checking him hard into the boards during the third period of the NHL hockey game in Buffalo, N.Y., Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009. Sabres' MacArthur was given a five-minute boarding penalty and a game misconduct for the hit. Buffalo won 3-1.

See? Even Yahoo! Sports says he wanted to check on him, and Yahoo! Sports hates us. He looked so bummed when he when he was ejected too, which I know I'm sure they all do, but he looked very remorseful...very rare in this sport.

- Shelby and I are soooo psychic. We called Drew scoring last night, which I admit isn't anything special because it's Edmonton and that's what Drew does when it was Edmonton. Then, we said that Monty and Craig were going to score.

Well, Craig didn't...

But Steven did!

I'd be lying if Shelby, a friend of ours, and myself did not hug each other and bounce, after the delayed reaction that it was him that scored. I LOVE Monty, and I regret any horrid things that were said about him at the Pepsi Center over the summer. I also love when defensemen score!

Monty's goal takes away from Hecht's goal, I hate to say. Monty, a defenseman, scored against a real goalie. But that's cool.

- I'm kind of bummed we only scored three goals? With Edmonton, isn't it usually more like...15?

Did I mention Patty was back?!

Eff You, Darcy...Part 52956

2009-11-10T21:28:00.002-05:00

At noon today, I did a happy dance.

Because Adam Mair cleared waivers.

You should be happy!

I was disgusted at the fact that he was attempted to be traded, then put on waivers. We were going to lose him for an underdeveloped rookie who takes lame penalties, and a washed up forward who bashed this city on his way out years ago.

But I'm stoked Adam is staying! I think he is a HUGE part of this team, more than people realize, and he should be insulted he was ever considered to leave (would YOU want to be Darcy after Adam clears waivers? Or...at all).

I will no longer fear or tease Adam. Sometimes you have to almost lose something to realize how much you love it.

I Told Myself I Wouldn't Recap on the Catwalk...

2009-11-10T10:17:00.002-05:00

But then I got a good night sleep, and I wasn't so (as?) angry.

So, I'm sure everyone has seen pictures, watched videos, and heard stories. But, I have the advantage of being sober the entire night. I am just that cool, I suppose.

I went with my two friends Ashley and Morgan, who are twins (in case that becomes relevant later). We all decided to go on Thursday, after promising we wouldn't because it was too much money blah blah blah (and Steadfast still owes me $400...).

Anywho. We got there for six, and were able to watch Caroline once again get in underage, haha. We wandered around, seeing everyone who was dressed up (I wasn't, I didn't have enough time to make that work) and what not, waiting to see who would be the first Sabre we would see.

And it was Chris Butler.

That picture does no justice, none. He had the tape glasses, he had the dorky sweater, he had the untucked shirt underneath. He was ADORABLE, and it was so fitting for him, I couldn't believe it. Granted, I didn't know that Myers would be in the same outfit (they totally planned it) so I thought it was one of a kind, and screamed when I saw him. It was just so fitting.

We kept wandering, mostly to see all the cardboard cutouts and what not. Then, Morgan was pulling me into the back room where the food was for what she referred to as a ' Lalime sighting.' That room is probably about the size of a small garage, but I couldn't find him. Because what do you look for when you're looking for Patty Lalime? His hair, and he had a hat on! Not to mention he was in a leather jacket, and that is not expected, but appreciated just the same. His wife was dressed as Sandy from Grease, I thought it was cute that even the wives get into it.

And I actually talked to Patty (once resisting the urge to run at him)! Not that it's ever been a problem for me, but I've always found that approaching them at the Catwalk is weird, I don't know why. But he was standing in this crowd of people, but no one was talking to him, and there was this little space next to him so I ran in there and was like ' YOU LOOK LONELY!' And then, similar to many other Patty Lalime/Tamara encounters...I don't remember anything.

In one of the trips from the bar to the main ballroom, we saw Toni at the ATM, which is just so awkward that its amusing. AND, he was in the 50s mode as well. And not the leather jacket kind of way (which would seem to be what he would go for) but the regular joe. I thought it was cute. He even had his hair slicked back! Which means, he has enough hair FOR IT to be slicked back!

Good enough!

Then, there was Drew Stafford.

I remember when the photo shoot pictures came out, and I was like ' oh my god, Ryan Miller should have been a teenager in the 50's' because it just fit so well.

No, no no no no no no no.

Drew Stafford should have been a teenager in the 50's.

And by the looks of this picture, he agrees.

If it wasn't for the tattoos, I probably would have never recognized him.

The auction was the same as it was last year, for the most part. Nice things that would cost my tuition to even have a chance at. However, Goose found it necessary to get on stage when they were auctioning a wine tasting event with him and Ryan.

Yes Goose, those glasses totally work for you. I don't care what Janet Snyder says.

Oh, and Patty K almost got into a fight with one of the iron chef guys. I would have bid for those two to beat the snot out of each other in my backyard...just saying.

Then, I was beginning to think that an absent Craig Rivet would mean the fashion show would be missing a little something. But, I'll let you be the judge of that one......

Lets all take a moment to appreciate Steve Montador and Steve Montador's hair...

We didn't stay long afterwards, and not a lot of people did in comparison to the year before. Even a lot of Sabres had left, but we were determined to catch Patty and Hank for pictures, but Patty had gone bye bye and we were going to replace him with Toni, but that's scary.

We did end up grabbing Hank, and while we were setting up for the picture, we told him to put his 50s glasses back on. He checked his shirt and was like ' I don't have them!' then Ashley, who had them because he gave them to her while on the Catwalk, yanks them out of her purse and is like ' I DO!' and he laughed...really hard. I swear these events would be downsized big time if the adorable Swede wasn't there (not that Jhonas wasn't adorable as well).

When we thought Drew had left, Ashley was starting to feel a bit better because she knew she wouldn't have to encounter him (similar to when I shoved her into him and he didn't notice). But then we saw him walk by and Morgan went after him to ask him for a picture. I was expecting him to be mean, I don't know why, he kind of sets himself up for that kind of reputation, but he was like ' omg, sure!' So we had to convince a slightly tipsy Ashley to put all her stuff down and go stand next to him. It eventually led to a picture, the one that was posted above. Morgan and I attempted one with him, but Ashley never got the hang of the camera, and Drew was yelling at her haha.

We had to leave after that...

But, any situation where you can walk away with a paddle ball, a hula hoop, and no hangover...ranks overall pretty good in my book.

Holy CRAP!

2009-11-08T08:19:00.003-05:00

Seriously, Danny Paille should have scored last night.

Because I love it when past Sabres prove that they should have stayed on the team.

Because it makes perfect sense that within a year of a player leaving this team, everyone is like ' omg, this is how we're going to get them back.'

Not to mention, that Jhonas having the same result of his first game that Patty had earlier this season is two totally different things. Right? Its never the same excuse twice, is it.

Good job, Jhonas. I'm terribly sorry the rest of the team couldn't give you a hand in your first NHL game ever.

-Hugs-

Oh, and according to some low life guy in his mid 20's, I am ' retarded like Corky from Life Goes On' for thinking Patty Lalime is a good goalie.

Best goaltender in Senators history...right...I'm clearly out of my element.

Fuck it.

And Shelby takes over this blog when/if I do not return from tonight.

Ryan Miller Kills Child, Paul Gaustad Blamed.

2009-11-06T22:30:00.005-05:00

So tell me...

What has to happen for Ryan Miller to take an ounce of responsibility for what goes on in sixty minutes of play?

Lets in four goals against the Flyers?

Not his fault.

Three against the Islanders in a short amount of time?

Somehow Pattys fault.

It seems as though it can always be blamed on someone else. Is it always his fault? Of course not, but soon enough they're going to be blaming Toni for what went down tonight.

The Sabres were outplayed, yes, but Ryan could have been WAY more on his guard tonight. This is not starting goalie for Team USA behavior, Ryan. Not your playing, and no your bitching every time a goal goes in. You not seeing it does not mean it didn't happen.

Grow up, bub. Vancouver isn't going to give a shit.

Furthermore, this dude right here has less regulation losses than you.

These are facts.

I know what you're thinking, Patty has only played in 1.45 games this season....

............

..............

Um, duh.

Marty Biron, ILY.

2009-11-05T08:59:00.003-05:00

Hugs!

And I thought the Flyers made him nasty!

When this happened last night, I was in complete shock...I think I still am. I heard Patty was in the crease being a pest (I seem to text a lot more at Sabres games when someone is NOT there) then didn't look up until Marty was going after him.

Good for him, I think. He kind of made a jump going after one of our enforcers when someone like ohh, say Derek Roy was nearby.

I was worried that it would turn in to a nasty pile up, or that Patty would go after him when he got in the box. Or that Drews head would have exploded because he would have no idea what to do when he finally got down there.

I think the Sabres are disappointed in Patty. How dare he bug Marty like that!

There was a pair of really drunk guys in the section next to us and behind us (it was really empty where we were sitting, bummer). Everytime Ryan so much as took a drink from his water bottle, they would chant ' USA! USA!' so Shelby and I were discussing random countries I could have stood up and cheered for...like Micronesia, and Tawian.

Despite a shut out, an ironic one at that, I still think Marty played better last night. Sure, Ryan didn't let anything in, but 24 vs. 39 shots isn't a fair match up. The goals Marty did let in were either horribly screened or a power play. The third one was just crazy, he totally knew what he was doing there.

Just like how it wasn't Pattys fault that we lost in New York, it wasn't Martys here.

Also, not too stoked that Roy scored his first goal on Marty...and I'm just not too stoked that he scored period. He did his stupid little celebration like he's suppose to be something great, and we have defensemen with more goals than him! It took you 12 games, wtf Derek, wtf!

Thomas also scored on Marty, and I know he doesn't like that. When he's ready to admit it, I will be ready to listen.

I'll actually be interested to see how the last game against the Islanders go, and surprisngly it's not like...tomorrow, or something.

Actually, tomorrow is the Flyers game. But, apparently Shelby does not want to watch it with me. I kind of hope Patty is better by then, because he shouldn't be too far away from the ice when Emery is around. Maybe we can install a zipline from the press box to the crease, I dunno.

p.s- him carpooling with Toni was quite possibly the most adorable thing ever.

Things That Bug Me...and Pre-Game I Suppose.

2009-11-04T11:07:00.003-05:00

For the record, my post this morning was my 52nd post (on blogspot). If anything, it will excite Shelby.

- It was Shelby who informed me that indeed, Patty Cakes is injured. He hurt his groin while saving the Islanders game from being a complete disaster, and will join Tonis club in the press box for groin related injuries.

As much as I want Toni back, it would be nice for Patty to have company in the pressbox. But, it's not even noon, who knows. I was soooooooooo sure it was Ryan who was hurt.

Damn.

- Articles that say Patty is inconsistent, and Lindy cannot rely on him.

Wow, really? People are telling us not to freak out over the playoffs, but this can slide in as a top problem? He played 1.5 games, not even! I have stated my place on the Atlanta game, and CLEARLY he wasn't the bad goalie on Saturday night! He saved that game from becoming even more of a headache.

Martys not coming back this year, folks. Get over it, move on, and leave Patty the eff alone! You're gonna be thanking him when bad shit happens later on in the season and we need him.

- The Olympics!

While slaving over a computer for hours tracking election results last night at Channel 2, I saw a commercial that said the Olympics were in 100 days- which means its 99 days right now. There are no rosters, let alone talking about which goalie is starting for Team USA!

Is Ryan going? Probably. Is he going to start? Who knows. I've had so many people tell me that because he was shafted with the last olympics, they'll let him start. That's not how it works. I doubt the committee is concerned with how a 25 year old goalie had a bad thumb 4 years ago. Lets not start buying the jerseys jst yet, folks.

Random side note, someone at work told me olympic players leave two weeks prior to the break beginning. Does anyone know for sure if thats true? If so, I can name two people going to every single game in that time period.

Don't get me wrong, I love the Olympics. I love that its in Canada, I love that Team Canada is going to be awesome...but lets all take a deep breath.

- Someone let Jason Pominville reproduce.

I promised myself I wouldn't put much about this in my post. But you would think in nine months someone would have found out about this? I imagine a lot of fan girls are passed out on the floor right now. I still cannot wrap my head around the thought of him being in charge of a little life, but what can you do with boys these days.

But Jayden and Jason? I don't know...

My friend Connor and I got last minute ish tickets to the game tonight. It was so cheap. I hope at least one French Canadian goalie will be there....

My friend Connor and I are goin g

Ryan Miller, You Two Timer!

2009-11-04T07:51:00.005-05:00

I'm just saying....

p.s- who wants to bet Pominvilles baby was conceived the night of the last Catwalk For Charity? Anyone? Anyone?

Best Loss Ever!

2009-11-01T18:59:00.003-05:00

In hockey, there are butt kickings. Then, there are butt kickings that just kick butt.

Last night was one of them.

Here are the reasons why last nights loss to the New York Islanders was incredible.

5.) It's only October. Well, it was October when the game happened, now its November (like you needed help). It was going to happen, and it did. Toronto was the lead in for a ass whopping against the Islanders, and it happened. For some reason, we took down a team like Detroit, but let the Isles walk all over us. I don't know why it happens, but it does. Furthermore, the Islanders are not in our division, and are NOWHERE near us in points, so everyone just take a deep breath.

4.) Craigory and Monty both got into their first fights of the season. I'll admit I've been waiting for Monty to go nuts (I wait for Craig to do it, too, and get more excited when he does, but its not as common). Monty could have done a bit better, but gets an A for effort.

I know he has it in him, and we can let this one slide.

Now Craigory! By the time his fight came along, he just wasn't having it. He had a little run in with his opponent, who then tried to get away it seemed. But nope, Craig went in for the ass whopping, and did so magnificently.

Yay!

3.) Marty!!! Ohhhh how I hope Darcy was watching very closely last night. I don't like Marty being on the Islanders, and I don't like Marty playing against our current back up goalies (more on that in a minute). But, similar to when he shut out the Sabres as a Flyer last November, if the Sabres aren't going to pull through with their end of the deal, why not be happy for Marty being awesome?

Martys 38 saves against his former team was not only his 26th career shutout, but also his 200th career win. And, as an added bonus of adorableness, he had fantastic things to say about the Sabres.

I like when he comes through to remind me that I still love him.

Hearts!

2.) Shelby and I saved money, time, frustration, creation of criminal records by not going to that game. Though I don't think it would have been THAT bad, and we would have found something good going on there (like Patty sitting in the stands with fans!...then Ryan doing it) it's nice to know that, like Goose and Patty K, we avoided the disaster. Now if only Ottawa promises to be better...

1.) RYAN MILLER HAS LOST IN REGULATION! Oh nos! The sky is falling! We're never gonna win the cup! Trade EVERY SINGLE DEFENSEMAN AND PATTY LALIME FOR 4TH ROUND DRAFT PICKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeahhh, not here folks. You know why there are back up goalies? For when there's back to back games! That could possibly be where the name came from. Ryan should have never played last night, mostly because of Toronto, mostly because he just shouldn't have. To say the absolute least, he should have had the second Islanders goal. I mean....he just should have! Defensemen can not go in the net behind you, Mr. Miller.

The highlight of my night is when my friend Morgan said ' they have to wait for Patty to get down the hallway' and I was in over-biased heaven. Had Patty gotten the loss, despite letting in less goals and playing less time, I would have lost my mind.

Similar will happen if I see one finger of blame pointed at Patty for last night. He saved it from being a hell of a loss worse, I think. And now, we can no longer say Ryan hasn't lost in regulation, though I'm sure they'll find some stupid tagline to stick on him....like how he hasn't lost in regulation at home while wearing the throwback jersey...or something.

Hugs!

Also, this post stands as proof that my two boys against one another did not lead to self combustion.

This time...

Can You Hear Me Now?...Good :)

2009-10-30T23:11:00.005-04:00

The minutes that consisted of tonights OT also consisted of Shelby and I fist pumping in our seats going ' Timmy, Timmy, Timmy, Timmy!'

And, he heard us.

Annnnnnnd he now leads the team with points, having 10, having more than Derek Roy...take THAT diver!

Also, very exciting that Drewseph scored on his birthday. Shelby and I were both hoping it was going to be a big goal, but suddenly doing an ' oh, shit!' scramble and putting a stray puck in the net from the crease will do just fine.

This is how excited he should have been when he scored that goal.

And TIMMY! 2 goals! Not just one, two! His OT goal of course is amazing, because it saved our behinds from losing to the team that never wins (or, almost losing) but also his first goal was just amazing. Not only did it prove that sometimes Jason Pominville can do something, but also, it was just amazing!

For you, Tim Tim.

How does that make you feel?

I'm sure, bud.

While Timmy may have done well, we did become very close to breaking our streak. Trust me, I know it will break eventually, but to Toronto? That's just mean. While Timmy did phenomenal, I hope the outcome of tonights game serves as a scare tactic to the others. They made it, yes, but letting in a goal in the last 40 seconds of the third period is bad...Ryan.

Nevertheless, we shall see how tomorrow works out. Sadly, Goose will not be there (and apparently several others are at risk of being sick). It's okay, maybe he'll sit in the press box with some face paint...or at least some cat ears.

Devil horns?

Clarkie doesn't like that idea...

Consistency is My Lack of Self Control

2009-10-30T07:58:00.002-04:00

Maybe this is why I should sleep in...

As soon as I even saw some random article that mentioned the possibility that Patty COULD play tomorrow, I ebayed Islanders tickets. I found two for $50, which is INSANE! I'm now on a site looking for hotels...

But, it's not going to happen. However, I am rather sure I could have convinced Shelby to do it...

Anywho. Before the Devils game started, a thought lingered in my head that was " they're going to have to lose eventually, what if it's this game?!' and then I had a minor panic attack...also in my head.

As Die By the Blade said...we're off to a good start, but there's 73 games left.

I think tonight will be a good game, or a really bad one. It's either an ass whopping or an ass kicking with the Leafs. Then tomorrow I will sacrifice a holiday to watch the game. No worries, I get to wear my costume at school today for our radio stations Halloween remote. I'm Peyton Manning :)

One entertaining factor we found in the Devils game, was Patrik Elias being named UNICEF Ambassador at intermission. Scary things happen when you're injured...like Timmy reading to little children. He wasn't injured, but it's amusing just the same. And, he will be eventually.

" I smile because I love the children."

Since every other blog is mentioning Tyler, I'll let it slide. I had a hunch he was going to stay (didn't we all?) and got several phone calls yesterday around noon at Channel 2 asking about it.

Woo?

And OMG, its someones BIRTHDAY!

and he is just stoked about that!

And he should be, you don't have to start hating birthdays until you hit 25...he's only 24! Hopefully he'll get a birthday goal, or win, I'm not picky.

Yay Drewseph!

If I had enough time...I swear...

Absolutely (Story of a Captain)...and Steve Montador

2009-10-27T21:31:00.003-04:00

Anyone remember that song?

Anyways.

Have I mentioned that I adore Craig Rivet? I'm sure I have. It was a recent development, Shelby and I him overheard to gladly sign something for a little kid- while waiting to do something with Ryan and the bobblehead, if you saw that adorable encounter you wouldn't have remember either- at the Pepsi Center.

I was one of those many people who was so sure Teppo was going to get captain last year. However, I was one of the few who didn't really complain, but rather it was ' the new guy.' I've never had a problem with him being captain, and clearly since the players are the ones who vote for him, they clearly see something special that he brings to this team. Even if it is only maturity...

Anywho, I was watching his interview yesterday (not one in which you can hear me laughing and yelling like a bafoon) and noticed that he- as well as Drew, actually- were questioned about the new additions to the team. In both situations, our ever-loving Monty (who always magically made his way on my list of love) was brought up as ' the sixth defenseman.' First off, it bugged me that he said that. Just because Steve was the last added defenseman (technically, wasn't Tyler?) does not make him any less important. Afterall, seeing dead people is just as important as taste, touch, smell, hearing, and seeing.

I'll admit that when we first signed Monty, I didn't care. But, since seeing him play, he seems to have a good mixture of everything we need in defense (cough, talent, cough) and seems like he's a real team player. Afterall, with Peaches he's on his third defenseman partner, and it's not even November. Not to mention that he works well with all of them...but so far I like Toni the best.

And, something that deserves it's own POST, but will settle for it's own paragraph because I am always tired...his dedication to making sure that no one feels left out. In case you missed it (I'm sure you can find the on the road blog on the site) Clarkie was not feeling well as the team made its way to Tampa (but seems to be just fine). As a precaution, he was forced to wear a surgical mask, but just so he didn't feel like a weirdo, Steve wore one too. Adorable? Far beyond that.

...off topic for a second, I thought it would have been really funny had the entire team wore the masks in front of the Bolts, so when seen they would either think the entire team was sick, or not sure who the sick one was. Shelby thought it would have been funny if the entire team wore one, except Timmy...

So, just as I have defended and proclaimed my love for Monty in these past few paragraphs, Craig did in that interview. He refuses to let a fellow dman be seen as a last minute addition, and thus, not as important. It's one thing to think that, but it's another thing to put a ' my poop don't stink' reporter in his place.

Honestly, this is the exact field I dream to go into when life becomes Tamara vs. The Real World, but they all look like scum. I'm not even talking about JUST Bucky or JUST Paul Hamilton, though those two are just as evil, and thus make others think that it's okay to talk to players like that. I wouldn't even talk to Sidney Cr...okay, I would. But I wouldn't even talk to Pommers like some of these jerks do (and that one I mean). Plus, it's even worse when you talk to one player about ANOTHER player.

Sorry, scumbags, even professional athletes have more respect than you do.

...I have no idea where this post came from.

Have I mentioned that I adore Craig Rivet?

Sometimes People Don't Get it the First Time

2009-10-24T16:31:00.003-04:00

I had a few nasty responses to my last post (Caroline darling, I don't mean you, no worries) which tends to happen when people cannot seem to read into exactly what I'm saying. I deleted those comments, not to be bias, but to leave my frustration level to a minimum. It's not like I knew them anyways.

So, lets clear a few things up.

I do not, repeat DO NOT, think Ryan Miller is a bad goalie. I don't. I don't think he's an elite goalie (yet) or the greatest thing out there...but I don't think he's terrible. I am perfectly aware of past and recent stats of his. I know he's good, he has faults, but who doesn't. What I meant was he is put on too much of a pedestal. Buffalo does it, some NHL relations do it, fans do it. I don't think he's as spectacular as people make him sound, and personally <--- PERSONALLY, I think it should be toned down a bit. And to be perfectly honest, I think he would agree with me on that topic...to an extent.

Not like I'm going to test that theory.

Also, I don't think this city hates Marty, in the least. I am yet to meet a fan that, even years after his trade, see Marty in an ill light (maybe in playing, but the other things he brought to this team). I adore Marty to no end, and I am sure lots of us do. I do regret him leaving, and while I have mixed feelings about him coming back (those being related to Patty) I wish he never had to go. What my argument was is that he was traded for something that was not equal to or even close to the value he had. Surely that happens a lot, which was my point.

So, please certain peeps. My computer reporting teacher cannot read between the lines, so why don't you give it a shock.

Freedom to Love the Swedish Defenseman...or Americanized Communism?

2009-10-23T07:50:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, while at Channel 2, one of the anchors and I were sitting in the news van at police headquarters waiting to go in. Once I caught on that he was a huge hockey buff, we started talking about the Sabres, of course.

It went into talking about the Atlanta game, because really at this point the Florida game only brings on " dear god that was amazing." Somehow, without immediately professing my love for him, I mentioned how Patty was not at fault for that game.

And he agreed, for a change. No one agrees with me, except for Shelby....who either really believes that it wasn't Patty's fault, or just fears of saying otherwise to me. But we went on about how Patty, who is no longer starting goalie material (and I fully admit that, but he was one hell of a starter) is an excellent back up and should be treated as such. Adam Mair didn't play well in his first game of the season, but no one is jumping on his case (they're probably afraid to).

And for the first time in I can't tell you how long, he agreed with me about MAX! Not that he had no right to be booed because he was forced out of this city, or that it was spectacular that his first goal was against us (his second was last night, for those who care)....but that he was never a ' problem' for this team, but rather this team was a problem for him. He had such talent that didn't necessarily blend with this team, but rather than putting an effort to make things work, they just gave up on him. Suddenly, HE was the problem.

Not only was I stoked that I found someone that can see that Patty and Max are not as problematic or as terrible as so many people claim, but it got me thinking that maybe I'm so excited to get to talk about these things, because I can never have a pleasant conversation related to these subjects.

I cannot tell you how many friendships I've lost over stupid hockey things, or how many fights it has started. It's pathetic, trust me, I know it is, especially at my age. A vast majority of my friends I have met because of the Sabres, and a lot of times I'll keep my mouth shut on certain hockey related things to avoid a fight. Not to say that they don't, I'm sure there are plenty of times they have done the same.

However, I rarely feel comfortable speaking honestly about what I do and don't like about that team, because I'm either going to get insulted, shut down, degraded, yelled at...etc. Especially since I don't fit in with so many cookie cutter routines of this team.

I hate Pominville.

Not personally, he's a nice guy. But, I think playing wise he is draining this team and isn't what he use to be. Don't give me that ' oh he had a bad season' crap because Max had a bad season and he was chased out of the city.

I love Hank.

This is probably more for his adorableness rather than playing. I know he's had a bad stretch of time, but in seven short games we have learned that he is not going to let that trend continue. A number of people I know do adore him, but he gets ' spanked' a lot, as Bucky would say.

I think Miller is overrated (and he's not alone)

I know I can't be alone in this, but I never hear it from others (except yesterday in the news van). I don't think his overrating is anything he is personally doing, because he probably wouldn't allow it. But, he is. I do think he is a moderately talented goalie, and is fine on this team, but lets stop bowing down to him. It's really starting to wear off.

Back up goalies get no lovin'.

It started when Marty became the back up goalie, then went to everyone forgetting who TBO was, now we're at Patty Cake. It cannot be put in more simple terms...you can be a great goalie- even if its a back up goalie- but if you're benched for long stretches of time, you're not going to come out shining on the other end. Patty didn't play fantastic his first game, I know. But he hadn't played since the end of September...and I won't even go into our defense that night. When he had to be starter last season, he had a shaky start, but then did great. I almost feel like he's our whipping boy....most of his games will likely be when Ryan blows it. Then, when we lose that game, Patty will get blame over Ryan, when he was trying to dig the game out of the hole.

And didn't TBO shut out almost every time he played two seasons ago?

The Sabres are such a charity case.

I'm sure this pisses off a lot of people, too, more than the other rants. We trade players like Al and Marty and Danny and what have you. And for what? Useless draft picks, players that leave weeks later....CRAP basically. Danny and Marty can be argued, I'm sure, even though they still bug me. Players are not judged properly around here, that's for sure. Two players can perform the same way, and only one is going to get attention, whether it be negative or positive, for it.

Unfortunately, the outlook on this team will probably never change. Miller will still be God, Pominville will still be the greatest thing since sliced bread, and Tyler Myers will still get interviewed every times he performs the magic that is converting oxygen to carbon dioxide.

Hey, I Have a Blog!

2009-10-18T15:20:00.005-04:00

I really have been neglecting this thing, it feels like. But don't feel bad, I've been neglecting my life and school just as much.

Maybe it's when the Sabres play insane games, it feels like I'm slacking.

Detroit was the first game of the season that I wasn't at, haha. It was my first day interning at Channel 2, and it was on the TV wayyyy across the room. I was doing something on the computer and could barely hear it, but go figure, I look over my shoulder just to see Drew score his first goal. And Patty K, and a whole lot of others, ha!. It was amusing to think that the amount of goals scored in that game equaled all goals scored in the first three games.

To think, we shut down a team like the Red Wings.

...only to be shut down by Atlanta

Granted, we still became the last team to lose a regulation game, and thus go our first game without getting a point. As soon as Shelby and I had tickets, I knew we were going to lose. We bought them specifically with the idea what Patty would play, but I knew we were going to lose. We don't go long with good records, and Atlanta just gives off that signal that they were going to cream us.

I'm really over it, because it's October, concentrating on it would just be unnecessary. Though I'm sure a good chunk of the city is blaming Patty, and I know it's hard for me to seriously defend him because I'm bias, but last night was not his fault. Not to say he was that great last night, but he was left hanging last night. No one was really that great, the defensemen couldn't have stopped a lot. People were making good decisions at the wrong time, it was just awful.

Also, wtf is with people booing Max? I can understand booing some players, not that I ever do, but Max!? People were making it sound like he said eff you to the city and took off. They kicked him out! It made me so mad, Shelby and I kept counter acting the cheers.

...and cheering when he scored. I know he ruined the last chance to at least tie the game, and I know that if our defense was awake, that goal could have been stopped. AND it was on Patty, but hopefully it was a swift kick in the haters' behinds. It was a nice goal, his first one I believe, and he was very excited.

Just like Drew was...for the few seconds it lasted.

When we were walking across Scott Street to go to my car after the game, I just happened to glance to my left at the car waiting at the light, and quickly turned to Shelby asking if it was Max in the front seat, and it was. I think he smiled when he noticed that we noticed him. When we were safely on the other side, we started screaming for him when the car drove by.

Though the Aussie was probably the happiest to see him.

Max is wondering why Grier gets to come back, and he doesn't.

Another perk to help balance out a grueling loss- a friend of mine paid be $20 to pinch Chris Butlers cheeks. He originally wanted Myers, and Toni, and Craig....but Chris was the one that ended up working out. I chose to explain the background to him (without actually saying what I was going to do) while he signed my friends ticket. He was just like ' oh yeah' and I don't think he was expecting what I did, after waiting so long for him to look up.

He was thanked for helping out a poor college student...

And he was scruffy.

So, I'm going to end this failure of a post with a picture of Hank that I took last night during warm ups. I think in all the praise he's FINALLY getting (instead of getting spanked, that is) and his improvements (sans last night, yo), this expression was right on target.

RHB Does Nashville!

2009-10-12T17:13:00.001-04:00

I'm writing this on the plane from Chicago to Buffalo, because my inablity to sleep on the plane may be my inablity to update my blog later on. But someone can't just go down south for a hockey game and not tell the tale, right?

If you're still reading, then you agree.

I was suppose to arrive in Nashville on Friday night. However, all those times of sucessfully getting to Dubai without as much as a hiccup finally kicked me in my karma-laced behind. The flight out of Buffalo was delayed (big shock, right?) and thus I missed my connection in Chicago. They put me on a standby flight in Chicago, which I was ACTUALLY on, but then was asked to step off because the person whose seat I had gotten ended up showing up. I was livid, and I usually don't express anger because usually the person I'm getting mad at is not at fault for the problem at hand. But, I was mad. I've been on standby flights my entire life because my dad is a pilot, and when he worked for Air Canada we could fly for free if we flew standby (and I never had such a serious problem, that I could recall). In fact, I've been on planes since my days in the uterus, and never once had a problem. The whole point of standby is that if the person doesnt show up, tough shit. They even closed the door to the plane behind me (I have a picture!).

Then they told me they couldn't give me my bag, and it would have to stay on the plane and I could get it in Nashville in the mornings. I had a hotel voucher from Southwest to stay in Chicago. I was a little nervous, because I had never been to the city, and was pretty much on my own. My dad and I had constant plans on what to do if this ever happened to me in NYC while going to Dubai, but I've never had to face it. It honestly wasn't that big of a deal, I took the shuttle from the airport to the hotel, slept there for about four hours, then did the same thing back. Finally, I was on a flight to Nashville.

When we landed there, I started feeling queezy, but figured it was stress/anger/exhaustion/all of the above and ignored it. Then, I found out my bag was on the same flight I was on, thus it spent hte night in Chicago just like I did But noooo, I couldn't have it. The only thing I wanted out of it was my cell phone charger, which I abruptly learned not to keep in suitcase, but rather, purse (words of advice, folks!). Regardless, I met up wtih the family that I was staying with, and everything seemed to be falling into place.

Until...we decided to get Mexican food for lunch. Then that nausea that I was feeling on the plane ended up being vomit in the parking lot (graphic, I know). I can't remember the last time I ever got sick like that, but it figures it would throw itself in there with the unplanned overnight to Chicago.

I ended up sleeping from about one or so to about four, and felt a bit better. Not 100%, but enough to put on a smile and go to the hockey game. I was fed numerous popsicles, which to my unknown surprise, were very helpful. I managed to eat a little dinner, which only angered the storm on tummy island, but there was no encore of earlier the afternoon (though I had a plastic bag in my pocket just in case).

Now, the hockey stuff...as the above was irrelevant.

We missed the first ten minutes or so of the game because of dinner being held up and parking and what not. It's not like anything major happened in those ten minutes, right? When we first got into the Sommit Center (JP Dumont was on the ticket, by the way, even though he didn't play, but was showin on the jumbotron) it felt so surreal to be seeing the Sabres. I mean, I've seen the Sabres. I was at the first two games this season, I've seen them more than my parents in the past year, and I've been to a few away games. Maybe it was because I was down south, I don't know, I just felt like I was out of my comfort zone with them. But maybe we shouldn't have Sabre comfort zones.

Our seats were amazing. We were about seven rows behind the net (Ryans net twice). My first instnict was to find Patty. I was livid that he wasn't playing, after promises that he would be, so I wanted to see him, and I know that away games he doesn't always get a bench seat. We were sitting right against the rail to the zamboni garage, and he wasn't there. I looked all along the boards, nothing. We were on such an angle that I couldn't see the bench that well, but luckily the always faithful Shelby informed me that he was in the tunnel behind the bench.

That aside, Nashville has fans! It wasn't a sold out game (and it looked a bit bigger than HSBC, which it might be? Since its an expansion team) and I was told that many other nights its a lot emptier, but for what they had I was very impressed. Nashville was one of the southern teams that I wasn't too concerned about their fan base (probably because they're one of the few southern teams, no?), but they were just as rowdy as we are in the north, and that is fantastic. There was one point towards the end of the game where they were all on their feet cheering and screaming. Was there a goal? No (we know that). Penalty? No. Fight? No...they just wanted to do it. I loved it.

There were also a lot of Sabres fans, even about three in the row in front of me. One of the girls in the front row spent the entire game screaming ' Lets Go Sabres' in the most annoying voice...ever. It was just...I don't know. It's bad when the Sabres fans tells you to shut up, hun. My friends husband who was with us was horribly amused, and not being anything close to a hockey fan started going all out for the Predators just to compete with her.

All in all I think it was a great game. Both goalies did a fantastic job, and I was so happy to finally be at a shutout game (where we shutout, rather than get shut out that is). One of my friends, who I've known since I was about six and use to be a hockey buff but just went to have fun, graciously sat through me grabbing his leg in the dying few seconds. And Mike Grier scored, so I'm sure that no one is going to shut up about that for a long time. For some reason, I cannot get my stomach to settle on him being back on the team...no pun intended.

I'm sure all the Miller fans out there were stoked for his first shut out of the season- oh hell, I was even grinning like an idiot (though that could have also been the misspelled Gaustad jersey I saw on a Sabres fan while we were leaving). But no one was more excited than Patty. He was jumping all over the players when congratulating them, which I have amusing pictures of. Then when he got to Ryan, he did this weird ' c'mon' pose that I can't described, then gave him the biggest hug which I would have had a great picture of ifi it wasn't for those silly boards. That's one of the things I think it most adorable about a back up goalie (specificially ours) is that you can dish it out that extreme when your starter does that well. Especially when you were SUPPOSE to play...but that's cool, if we had lost I would probably be more sore about that...and no, I don't know why.

Totally random awesome hockey story!

The next day we went to the movies, after gettting Mexican for lunch take two (it was successful, or at least more so). It was Couples Retreat, and it honestly wasn't that good, silly Vince Vaughn. Anyways, we were getting out of the actual theatre to the hallway for the bathrooms, and I see this woman and I think to myself " wow, she looks a lot like JP Dumonts wife." And its the weirdest thing that I would think that, and that I would remember what she looks like, because she hasn't been around in, what, three years? But I for some reason can remember clearly what she looks like. Then I look at the man that she's standing next to against the wall, and...it's JP Dumont.

I was so stoked, because I had only seen him on the jumbotron the night before, and I love that man, and I would gladly sell like....Drew Stafford to get him back. Maybe not, but you get the idea. I think we all loved JP at one point. He saw me making eye contact, and he looked a little scared. Not of me, I hope, but more like a huge crowd of people who adore this mean, and he was making it very obvious that he didn't want to be noticed (he had a Titans hat on, and they lost that night). I had my ticket from the night before in my bag, and would have totally gone and asked him to sign it. But, even in an away city, I stick to my rule that if they're not in a hockey related setting, don't go up to them with a Sharpie in your hand. And, I felt bad enough that I got my two friends staring at him when I tried to be sly and asking if it was him in the first place.

It was a fantastic weekend, but I am so ready to be back in Buffalo. I was told it was cold, but anything beats four cramped planes (the inside of the overhead storage says weight cannot exceed 160 pounds so it makes me wonder if thats how Ryan could cheat the the standby system). My shoulder blades are absoultely killing me for reasons I am still trying to figure out. I see a lot of Aleve and a hot bath in my near future. Shelby and I are going out to dinner at Chilis tonight because I'm craving it after eating half a bowl of pasta and one fajitia in the entire weekend. We're plotting to get tickets to the Atlanta game on Saturday, because I have a good feeling maybe we can remove our lips from Ryans ass long enough to let Patty play...so come December we're not like ' oh yeah, Olympics, oh well.'

...but Max better not score if he does.

....the flight attendant says we have to get prepped for landing. Adios!

Oh Yeah, These Guys!

2009-10-09T08:39:00.005-04:00

In my Sabre excitement, I forgot about my two other buddies in the NHL. And they both did fantastic jobs last night.

Who took this?!

Marty was in net for the Islanders last night (I still haven't actually looked into whether or not he's starter, back up, Jhonas Enroth...I dunno, I don't think I want to know). They lost in OT to the Senators, but Marty got third star (don't say that doesn't count and then tell me it's a big deal when Tyler gets it). From what I heard, he had a good game. They showed one of his saves on the jumbotron at the arena last night, and it was typical Marty-ness. Yay! Maybe the Islanders won't totally blow it this year.

And second!

SOMEBODY GOT A HAT TRICK!

In his debut at home, Mr. Dany J Heatley scored a freaking hat trick! Not that I find this uncommon, or new to be honest, but I'm really excited that he's making a good impact with San Jose. It would be terrible if after all that, he couldn't get chemistry going. But he seems to be doing just fine, amusing facial expressions and all. When I Googled him to find an article to post on my Facebook, I saw a lot of articles talking how it was such a good mood, and now San Jose is doing so well (better?) with him. Double yay!

It's good to see some things won't change with him...including his pant strings always hanging out.

Hamilton...errr Phoenix...Coyotes.

2009-10-09T00:34:00.006-04:00

I've really been slacking in the blog updating department. I'm only doing it right now because I have to finish laundry, and am too lazy to go to my car to retrieve my camera.

Thankfully, the boys made up for their home opening loss and seem to be on a good track. Even though I still haven't felt that hockey has reallllly begun, I think it's just going to take time to get things going.

-First off, I think everyone played FANTASTIC tonight...with the minor exception of Derek, but he's never going to rank high enough to get any kind of honorable mention. Right, Derek?

- Shelby and I called Goose, Drew, Craigory, Chris, annnddd...someone else? to score. We were never right, but who REALLY would have called Clarkie scoring? And Shelby SHOULD have called the Aussie scoring.

- I feel as though Patty K only got aggressive because his attempt to fight in the beginning, which lost him a glove, did not work out. But his hit was clean, and like Ryan said, threw the Coyotes off the rest of the game. All they wanted was to take out Patty, and it just led to more penalties for them?

- I am falling more and more in love with Monty. I didn't care when he first signed, I'll admit, but he has so much grit and determination, and it really shows on the ice. He moves fast, and knows where to be and when to be there. He also looks like Simon Gagne, just saying.

- I reallllly hope Hank's penalty doesn't put him on the waivers. Shelby somehow got me worried about that. But they killed off the 5 on 2, and then the remainder of his penalty. He seems to be doing just fine, or at least, not bad as he sometimes tends to be.

- The two Sabres goals were hard to cheer for, as someone was down on the ice at the time. First a Coyote, who was thankfully fine, then Tyler, who was also fine. At first I thought Tyler was celebrating, Max style and all, until Hank was leaning over him and shaking him. Actually, there's a chance that maybe at the time I thought Hank was congratulating him? Who knows. After the threesome celebration, they all stood over him. But, everyone is just fine...and we do know that something CAN take down Tyler.

- Speaking of Tyler, he got his first NHL point...and his announcement was greater than Clarke, who actually scored. Everyone orgasmed, I'm sure.

- Toni finally signed the Finnish flag. He was stoked, I think, in a Toni kind of way. I think the three of us are really starting to build a friendship.

Sorry this blog is becoming slightly of a dud. School is kicking my ass, and in a sneaky form, and I also haven't been sleeping much at night. However, this time tomorrow (today?) I will be in Nashville. I'm visiting with family friends, but will be there for my boys on Saturday night.

...I'm not sure how hardcore I'll have to go against Predators fans, but I am prepared for either...

Ole!...Sorry

2009-10-04T11:19:00.003-04:00

After the game last night, Shebly and I were standing outside the arena, waiting to give Toni Lydman his cookies that we forgot with the rest of his present earlier that day, when it dawned on us.

Overtime loss = we still got a point.

With that information, the sting of losing the home opener went away. That, and if Ryan Miller says we played good, we must of. The two Habs goals were awkward, but I'm sure we all know that by now.

As you may recall, Shelby and I totally called Goose scoring with Grier's assist in the preseason game against Toronto. So, last night we were debating...who would score the first goal of the season? I truly believe that the entire season can be previewed based on who scores the first goal.

We said it would be either Drew, Timmy, or Goose....and Rivet in the defensemen category.

....we are good, needless to say. I actually have a video of them announcing his goal, which I will add to this as soon as I can upload it. I was soooooo excited when he scored! I mean, he scores often, and I've been to games when he's done it before, but the FIRST game of the season! And Rivet got the assist, so we were partially right there...no mentions for the little bitch.

Someone pointed out to me that the last first season goal scorers- Vanek and Spacho- both suffered serious injuries. I don't think that means squat, and it's TC, so we kind of see it coming, no? Whatever, we get free Dunkin Donuts.

Last season opener, I made buddies with the Habs fan sat behind us. For some reason, they are the opposing fans that I get along with the best (and Philly fans, but only while Marty was there, and only in Wachovia). That whole " I'm from Montreal" goes a long way, I tell ya.

Maybe it was because we won last year, but I don't think it was. All through the game they were just being annoying (understandably so, I suppose). And last year, I got the ones sitting behind us to pose for my friend Alison, who is a huge Habs fan, and it was her birthday that day.

Even when we were walking back to the car, on an empty Swan Street at 11 at night, a Habs fan drove by and said ' sorry we kicked your ass' after waving at us for a few moments. Shelby yelled back ' sorry your 100th anniversary sucked!' and was damn proud of herself. Last night was anything but an ass kicking. I'm not sore that we lost, but it was overtime people!

... I think they're just jealous that we have Rivet.

However, we did meet two very nice guys who were sitting next to us through the game. I talked a bit to the one of them in the first two periods, then the other one talked to Shelby and I through most of the third period (not like anything else was going on).

For some reason, Tyler and Timmy K are not sitting well with me. I don't think they're really problematic, it's just not working. Yesterday, I was not stoked about Hank and Tyler being paired, but I think they did an alright job (that kind of pairing makes me feel like Toni and Hank will be reunited when Toni gets better). Tyler did get us some nice penalties, because tripping someone like Tyler could wake up China...just saying. And of course he got third star...I know he did a good job but, I don't know, I think we're getting a little overhyped.

Oh! I almost forgot! PAUL GAUSTAD IS ASSISTANT CAPTAIN!

I'm not sure if last nights A's were permeant or not, but I sooooo hope they are! He is FINALLY getting what he deserves, and I doubt many people will be upset with that.

Shelby and I are going to aim for the Phoenix game on Thursday. On Friday, I head to Nashville to visit with family friends (I really need to remember that). But I will be seeing the boys on Saturday!

...maybe Patty Cake will have his banana hat back by then. Work it, Patty!

Opening Night and Crayons!

2009-10-02T07:13:00.003-04:00

Not that this slipped anyones minds I'm sure, but last night officially started the 2009-2010 season.

Huzzah!

I'm sure it will matter more TOMORROW night, but exciting none the less. The Habs beat the Leafs in overtime, the Caps beat the Bruins, Calgary beat Vancouver, and San Jose LOST to Colorado...wtf.

In not so shocking news, Ovie already has two goals. Heads up, Vanek!

As I mentioned in a previous post, Shelby and I went to see David Sedaris last night. He read new stories, and they were fantastic. Then we waited in line for over three hours (literally) for a book signing (it makes a Dave and Adams signing look like shit).

Anyways, we were probably one of the last ten people, and the guy was still chatting with people. I got up there and said hi, and immediately told him that my brother bought me Me Talk Pretty One Day (the book I had) because he thought we had a lot in common.

He asked if I talk on the phone on the lot, and I said yes. I don't know why, because I really don't. In this age, I will gladly text before I ever talk on the phone, but that's what came out. At one point in my life I DID talk on the phone a lot, so it wasn't really a lie.

Then he asked what I do when I'm on the phone, I responded with "....talk?" I'm cool like that, making an ass of myself in front of my idols. But he seems like the type to be okay with smart ass replies.

I saw him writing ' enjoy the crayons' in my book and was like uhhhhh. Then, he handed me a box of 120 crayons...and told me to doodle when I was on the phone.

Seriously...not even kidding...GREATEST THING EVER! Patty Lalime could give me a hug, THIS still tops it! Every girl has a gay guy they'd marry, and David Sedaris is mine. I love him, and can't believe he HAD a box of crayons, let alone gave it to me.

I just wish more people would adore it...

Pookey No Likey Roster Cuts

2009-09-30T18:50:00.002-04:00

For the record, I'm getting to the pictures. It's like the day before opening night (yeah, or not), scary stuff is going on here, folks! I also know that the Air Canada Centre is the ACC not the AAC as I've been calling it. I've been calling it that forever, even when my dad worked for Air Canada.

Before I get to the Sabres...

I love, love LOVE that Maxy Poo has signed with the Thrashers. I don't like the Thrashers (yet) but I'm glad he was able to stay in the league and go to a team that appreciates him for who he is and the talent he has. I hope he does a phenomenal job there.

I'm sure that Rhett is proud as well, Max.

Seriously, I want this guy to score a hat trick or something against the Sabres so the Max haters can suck it (sorry). I always get fired up about him, I don't think he was treated fairly by this team or the fans at all.

No worries, he looks damn spiffy in the Thrashers jersey.

Hawt.

I'm so excited. Shelby and I were planning to go to the New Years Day game, and it'll be more exciting with Mr. Max there. Also, Petey signed a 2 year deal with the Devils. I'm also excited for him, he found a new home. It's probably a huge culture shock because it's not Buffalo, but a multi-year deal is something he should be proud of.

In Sabre news, for those who are still Sabres, Gerbe and Weber are not for the time being. The final roster cuts were made, and the only new guys on the team (from the AHL, we already know about the other new guys) are TK and Tyler. I'm kind of disappointed, I think. This makes me mad for reasons I don't understand, haha.

I realllllly thought Gerbe was going to stay with us. Not that his pre-season performance was anything stellar (then again, neither was TK, in my opinion), but I thought with such determination that it was just going to happen for him.. And I'm sure Weber is kicking door frames left and right. That has got to be a tense plane ride back to Portland for those two...

As for Tyler, I was pretty sure he was going to stay. Even had Toni not been hurt, I was assuming he'd be with us. However, the first nine games are gonna be nail biters for him/me, regardless of Toni's health...since he will come back eventually. We shall see...

Stupid Toni and Drew, getting hurt the week before. WTF guys, you just like to ruin everything!

Despite those two party poopers, opening night is the day...after the day...after tomorrow. Right? I think so, something like that. Shelby and I have two fun filled days planned out to make sure this season starts off right/without any arrests.

And tomorrow we are seeing DAVID FREAKING SEDARIS! Oh my goddddd I love that gay. man. Shelby is probably scared to be going with me, but I have been waiting awhile to see this guy in person (and for free! not an important detail, but a fun one). It makes me almost feel bad that I'm ditching my co-host for an event we were suppose to be working at tomorrow. But she understands...even if she doesn't, who cares! I may also go on a sweat pant shopping spree tomorrow. I hate jeans and this weather is making me want to be ultra snuggy.

I shall end this post with little preview of the last thing Craig Rivet will ever remember from the upcoming Catwalk for Charity.

As Shelby said...one of these things is not like the other...

Bad photoshopping apparently includes out dated flipflops and Derek Roy having a lolli.

Tamara and Caroline vs. AAC

2009-09-29T09:19:00.003-04:00

My class got out early, and I have to stick around for my radio show at 10, so I thought why not update! Another good reason would be that Caroline and I had a rather successful adventure to Toronto on Sunday, and aren't blogs for sharing? Yes, they are!

So, we left Buffalo around 4:30 (we aimed for four because we knew it was probably going to be late) and had smooth sailing to Toronto, except of course until you hit downtown. And since the Air Canada Centre blends in with other downtown buildings (unlike the Rogers Centre, which you can almost see from Buffalo) we drove up and down random streets winging it.

Everytime we saw Leafs fans, we assumed we were in the right general area. We pulled over on one street for Caroline- already in her Miller jersey- to ask for directions. How many people live in Toronto? And we ask the only non-English speaking couple on that street who went ' uhhhh' and pointed in a random direction. Fantastic.

We parked on a random street since it was Sunday and thus, free and headed off- Caroline in Ryans jersey, and me in Patty Cakes (goalies represent!). We were walking targets and felt like it. We kept trying to follow Leafs fans and had to ask for directions in a subway station when the Leafs fans mislead us. We did see a few Sabres fans on the way, so I started feeling a bit better.

Finally, we made it! Ten minutes before puck drop, we were in the security line. Somehow, in those ten minutes, we managed to make it from the underground entrance, up to our seats, and got Caroline beer along the way (she was far too excited to be drinking, haha). Our seats were row 18, which is NOT the row 18 it is at HSBC. It's the last row, right below the standing section, and we were so high up that we were BEHIND the press box, and had a little TV because you might not have been able to see the top of the scoreboard. Don't get me wrong, they had a great view, and you take what you can get when you buy tickets that afternoon.

It was already such a culture shock. They announced the Leafs starting line up with names and numbers we were not use to hearing, and Caroline and I had to scream extra loud for our starting line up.

One of the downfalls to the AAC being bigger than HSBC is that when the Leafs score, coma patients know about it. They arena was definatley not sold out, especially since it was preseason, but you still heard it (I actually got a video of one of the Leafs goals while TRYING to film something else!).

The first time we were actually heckled, other than people yelling ' BUFFALO SUCKS!' as we walked around, was during the first intermission. We were down by 2, as we all know, and when passing by other people in our row to go get something to eat, an old man said " oh, are you coming back?" I guess it looked like we were bailing, but it was an intermission! Not to mention the first period. But Caroline was like ' oh yeah, we're coming back!'

Along with Caroline and I returning to our seats for the second period, the Sabres came back. Similar to the Montreal game the night before, Gerbe and Clarkie scored a little over a minute apart. A few minutes later, Thomas scored...right after Caroline asked " have the Sabres scored on the power play this pre-season?" He was kind enough to answer her question.

Then the Leafs scored two blah blah blah, we never went down after that! I must say, it was very weird cheering when they scored. I know we weren't the only Sabres fans there, we weren't even the only ones in the section. But when you're so use to 17,000+ people cheering with you, sometimes it took a second to realize it was a goal (kind of like when you think they score at HSBC, then realize they didn't, but you're thrilled for that small period of time). Even in the Wachovia Center, there's more people cheering when the Sabres score. Odd.

Despite not admitting it, the Leafs fans loved when we cheered for the little guy, and Kennedy scoring, just because we had the tendency to sound like we hated the Sabres more than they did for a moment. The woman a few seats over from us was laughing so hard when Caroline yelled ' THE LITTLE BITCH DID SOMETHING RIGHT!' when we thought Roy scored (but it was really Vanek).

But, that game was intense! If they scored, we scored, and so on. And I'm very upset that so many are dissing Patty and his performance that night. I'm not saying he was stellar, I'm sure there were some soft goals in there, but there were also amazing saves. Half the people bashing him, didn't even watch the game! I understand he let in six goals, but Toskala- a starter- let in seven. In high scoring, and close scoring not to mention, games I rarely blame either goaltender. Patty was on his A-game, unlike our defensemen. I love Hank, I love Craig...I don't love them together. However, everyone killed that 6 on 4 at the end of the third, so shove it haters (sorry)!

...by the way, HAD the Leafs scored on that 6 on 4, it wouldn't have been Goose's fault. Somehow, we would have made it Dereks.

So, the game ended, Caroline and I were screaming (I finally got her to work WITH the Sabres, haha) and what not. People yelled ' Buffalo sucks!' but we were oh-so-lame and yelled ' WE WON!' We had to make a pit stop at the bathroom, and I felt SO awkward standing there in my jersey when waiting for Caroline. But, women usually aren't as nasty. One woman even rubbed my shoulder and said ' you're a brave girl.'

While leaving the AAC- not even being off the property- we saw two MAJOR fan fights. One was actually inside, and we didn't see anything more than shoving, but when we walked away from it, a lot of security guys were running that way. And outside, we saw a guy get jumped (well, he didn't seem to be doing anything) and shoved around by some angry/drunk Leafs fans. He was kicked in the face, poor guy. If I hadn't been a girl, I probably would have jumped in to help him.

We wandered off in search of the car. On our way (in the wrong direction) a guy on a corner stopped us. He was maybe in his 50's or so, and immediatley started raving Buffalo, saying how his first game was in the Aud when he was about 9 (or six?). He went on about the French Connection, and how the fans were great, and the Leafs fans were not. He was so sweet, Caroline just adored him, and got my picture with him haha. Definatley a nice way to end the last walk through the city.

...actually, it really ended when a homeless guy had to point us in the right direction. For that, we gave him some money (he tried to woo us by saying he loved Buffalo, haha).

All in all, very awesome trip. It was Caroline's first away game, and first time seeing a game this (pre)season. I LOVE the AAC, I think its a gorgeous building...and that's about it. We survived a night of rivarly (during the game, they talked about a DVD that was going on sale of the Leafs greatest games, to which I yelled " SHORTEST DVD EVER!" so I was going a little outside of the somewhat safety zone).

I would like to personally thank the Sabres for winning, and making the trip back to the car a little less dangerous (at one point, I thought my car died, and was ready to run after their bus).

I have a good amount of pictures from that night. I'll do a picture post with a few of them later today, but my radio show starts in about 13 minutes.

Be cool and listen in. www.medaille.edu/wmcb <--- click on the lizard and listen, folks!

Pre-Game: Pray for Us!

2009-09-27T15:14:00.002-04:00

So, after much confusion and waiting until (almost) the last minute.

Myself and Caroline from Hockey Night in Buffalo are 45 minutes away from heading to Toronto for the final pre-season game for ours boys. Our seats are bad, but lets hope the Leafs are worse!

I've been to the Air Canada Centre before for a Leafs game, but they weren't playing the Sabres. This should account for some fun times!

Patty should be in net, too! I'm glad he gets the last game before heading to the bench.

Side Note:

Jeff Cowam, Joe Dipenta, Felix Schutz, Philip Gogulla, and Marc-Andre Gragnani are joining Jhonas in Portland. And Mark Mancari signed? Well, he tried to put up a fight.

It's go time, folks!

This Gets its Own Post.

2009-09-25T17:14:00.003-04:00

Hey, guess who's 32 today!

This guy!

(I seriously just found this picture two seconds ago).

Happy Birthday, Toni Bear!

There we go!

Have a good day, big guy!

I'm So Neglecting.

2009-09-25T16:34:00.003-04:00

Sorry folks, but yesterday I was death with a Sabres shirt on. I don't have swine flu like poor Jill, but something finally brought me down. Luckily, the worse only lasted a day, now i'm just sore and congested. Oh, and like my grandpa, whenever I laugh, it leads to a coughing fit.

Anyways!

Shelby and I had loads of fun at the pre-season game. The red carpet was spiffy, except for the lack of Craig Rivet, and Derek Roy still being allowed to dress himself. I think his suit is why GOOSE was Captain, and he was not. But other than that, everyone looked sharp and seemed to be more comfortable with the concept in comparison to last year. Joe Dipenta, who finally came out of the wood work, seemed to be a little confused...which is weird because he played in California, land of this kind of crap. He also had Tim Hortons in hand, very adorable.

Some things from that evening.

- Patty didn't bring his daughters, but he had a pink tie (like Hank!). I think Patty K was most hardcore into the signings, and Drew just wanted to make fun of Derek (he said what we were all thinking).

- I loved that Adam went. But I'm sure he has a lot of time to waste, this along with his new blog. However, I bet he will be right back at the 6 week mark. Afterall, according to Jim Corsi, he's a ' hip guy.' (insert awkward laughing).

- The ONE autograph I wanted was Patty on a Penguins card I recently got. But this skank next to me (not Shelby) pushed me aside to get him to sign her Winter Classic banner. The game HE WASN'T EVEN ON OUR TEAM FOR!

- Security was suspicious of my bag. I love having to say ' uh, a bobblehead' when he felt it. Thank god he didn't ask me to take out Toni's card, even though it was occupying the most room in that little bag.

- Shelby and I attempted to get to the 200 level to FINALLY get a picture with Patty and Patty, but apparently even during the preseason they check tickets before you go up. And not until I just read Shelby's blog did I realize we also forgot to do it after the game (darn you, Toni Lydman!). We have time to keep forgetting...

- Goose being captain was the greatest thing since...Craig Rivet being captain. Also, his goal was totally called by Shelby and I...including Mike Grier's assist.

- Jason Pominville looks ridiculous with the camera on his head. More so, that is.

- Yelling at Leafs fans will never get old. I never have issues with other opposing fans, so I save it all for them.

- I called Shelby a 'cunt-nugget' because she filmed me backing up my car in our oh-so-cheap parking lot.

- Toni loved the bloopers video. Drewseph didn't even budge when they did the air guitar thing.

- Speaking of Drew, they finally put that man in a cage...and denied him his burrito.

- There's probably some stuff I'm forgetting.

- Toni's mom should be proud with that woman he married. I've always thought Mrs. Lydman was a funny girl, like when she translated my Finnish sign. Wednesday night, Shelby and I gave Toni an early birthday card explaining why his present would be late (hehe). You know those ones that play music? Imagine that 6 times bigger, and thats what we had. He did stop, but we were acting too chicken shit to give it to him. But we figured we had to for it all to fall into place. So, we handed it to him and said blah blah blah it's for your birthday. He smiled and said...something, but the his wife grabbed it from him and said ' oh good, because I was going to forget it!' That's a solid hockey marriage right there!

Also!

- Timmy is going to be on the second line with Clarke opening night, and an unnamed winger. Roy, Thomas, and Drewseph are going to be the starters. I like some parts, but not others, we'll have to wait and see.

- According to Jhonas's Facebook, he's going to Portland tomorrow. Obviously, we all knew, but still. I wonder who is next...

- Adam Mair was skating today. He had Timmys red jersey on, but he was pretty active, until he fell over.

- Home opener is 8 days away! 8 days! Goodness gracious, that means 6 days until Shelby explodes.

Pictures from Wednesday? Of course.... http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2222470&id=90400158&l=362c670fdc

We Pre-Game Harder Than You Party

2009-09-22T22:18:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is the day HSBC, Buffalo PD, and Paul Gaustad have been fearing for ages.

It's Shelby and Tamara attending their first Sabres game together. And sadly, it's just a warm up before the home opener a week from Saturday...when we actually decorate my car. Tomorrow we just might do the flag, but it's all in preparation, folks.

We should be there in time for the Red Carpet, so if anyone is out and about looking to meet some new people, look for the home made Craig Rivet shirts and a Finnish flag.

Tomorrow should be good stuff game wise though...Toronto is always a fun game to watch. And our boys have been doing really well, so lets hope that keeps up tomorrow.

Speaking of talent, Kevin Sylvester posted a blog today in which he praises Patty.

Without being bias, he has a very good point. Given the right amount of time and preparation, Patty will be just fine when Ryans all rawr Team USA. And it's not just the preseason for the goalies. Hopefully Patty Cake will keep up his good work...he should be playing in Montreal if this rotation keeps up.

Not tomorrow, but I'll live. I'm sure come Olympic time, I'll be dragging Shelby to a game just because Patty is playing. Afterall, I drove through the bad part of Buffalo at midnight to get tickets to the Anaheim game from some guy off Craigs List (edited for the parental story).

Tomorrow will be interesting. Hopefully the boys show up with their A-game and stylin suites...classy stylin, not Derek Roy stylin.

However, I would LOVE a repeat of this:

-dreamy sigh-

Re-Cap the Sequel...Same title, still not funny.

2009-09-22T07:05:00.004-04:00

I didn't watch any of the game last night.

There, I said it.

But, an unplanned nap and then a quest to buy Honey Nut Cheerios sometimes takes priority, right?

And it's pre-season, it's hard to follow this stuff. That, and I am still willing to look the other way while they make boo boos. I heard Mike Weber and Goose were on that list last night, but I REALLY look the other way for Goose. He could totally wreck Timmy one night, I'll pretend it never happened.

I think Katebits put it best. When we lose, its just preseason. When we win, we are beasts who will never lose again.

ALSO!

(put your hand down, Sean Collins!)

Sometimes I'm not sure if I like the idea of Timmy being captain. With Goose and TV over his shoulder with the A's, maybe, but he is not a balanced man most of the time.

I heard Patty did well, despite not getting a lot of action. So, this means he won't be playing Wednesday, but I was prepared for this. As long as Craigory and Toni are, for stupid reasons. And Vanek so I don't have to shut Shelby up...

VERY proud of our little goal scorers! And 11 seconds apart...someone was antsy!

Eeep!

Tomorrow is the ever awaited Toronto game. It's going to be good time, folks!

p.s- My radio show starts today! My friend Courtney and I will be broadcasting from 10 to 11 am every Tuesday and Thursday. We're aiming to make it a Sabres show, since its on the right days, but we shall see.

To listen online, go to medaille.edu/wmcb.

Listen, folks!

Tamara Raids the San Jose Sharks

2009-09-21T17:27:00.003-04:00

That is, their website.

Now, some may tell you it was Dany Heatley that brought me to the San Jose video site this morning. Others, Craig Rivet. Joe Thornton, maybe. But frankly, I don't remember.

And it doesn't matter, because being a weirdo brought upon these two gems that I would like to share.

First off...lets get to know Craigory a bit better.

- I think Craig should have had a guest spot on Desperate Housewives...just saying.

- First date was a party? I think he and Mrs. Rivet met at a very young age if they were still going to parties. Not dinner parties, parties.

- I can see him being moody, but just a bad moody. And can you be moody and outgoing at the same time? I bet Craig could.

- I knew he was going to say Tiger Woods, and I don't know why. Also, glad he defended him.

- No, not Val Kilmer. Come on, Craig, you're better than that.

- I like red.

- Craig can enforce, but claims he would be a terrible shootout participant. He claims he would go right before Patty Cake. Go look at it on Sabres.com right after Toni's shootout goal.

- I swear I heard a Shark drop a swearing bomb right after he was asked who would be the best role model for kiddies. If this was Buffalo, he would have said ' Goose' in seconds.

- I'm sure Buffalo has given him numerous more reasons to go ' IDIOT!'...positive or not.

- Isn't 250 like 4 Ryan Millers?

- " Who picks the locker room music and do you like it?" - looks over shoulder slowly-

- " This is MY time!" could be a new NHL commercial. Just sayin.

- I would set my apartment on fire just to ride bridal style out of it in his arms. Not gonna lie, not gonna like (even if I tried, Shelby would bust me).

- You are doing a great job, Craigory.

...by the way, yes, his hat does mention studs.

And second...

this CRACKS me up to no end. I love how funny he is, and that he can be talented at the same time (like Peyton Manning!). I don't think he was given a fair chance....

One last thing...

the second piece of Shelby and Tamara vs. HSBC Arena arrived today....

Beware...

I'm Going to Hell

2009-09-20T14:33:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, you just can't hold it in.

As Shelby put it...Giddy up!

Goosey, Goosey, Goosey!

2009-09-19T21:31:00.005-04:00

I didn't watch this preseason game as much as the first one...obviously, I don't live in Detroit. Shelby had the feed on her computer in my living room while we were watching Dirty Dancing. I have never seen the movie all the way through, sadly.

But that is not why we're here!

Craigory was the captain tonight, which makes sense because when isn't he the captain? Other than games he doesn't play in. POMINVILLE, not Roy, had the A, which I don't like, but it's a nice step down from what could have been captain.

And who had the other A?

This fine boy...

( missing from picture: letter A)

Fine work done there. And what else, he scored an empty netter! The title of this blog actually comes from Shelby and I chanting that as we bounced around my living room after his goal (trying oh so hard to avoid the wet paint of our shirts). See our encore this coming Wednesday.

Did Derek also score? Yes. Did he score a goal that was actually necessary rather than an empty-netter? Probably. But that doesn't matter! Goose plants trees, Goose plays with sick children, Goose plays with YOUR children, Goose delivers babies (not yet, but we have a theory...)

Special shout-out to Tommy boy. I will never get tired of your butt screening goalies and scoring goals.

I leave you with our work in progress:

We're going to start copyrighting them....if that's even legal.

Until Monday...or tomorrow with some babbling nonsense.

Pregame! Woo!

2009-09-19T13:52:00.003-04:00

Alright, folks. Preseason continues tonight!

Our boys are in Detroit, hopefully ready to bounce back against the Red Wings.

Maybe we should all take a moment to remember what happened last time we played them...

Luckily, Drewseph is not playing tonight. Craigory, however, is. So, in case someone feels like getting out of hand, he shall be there.

Also playing from Thursday night are Vanek, Roy (gah!), Butler, Gerbe, Myers, Pominville (gah!), Weber, Mac, and Kennedy...probably because of his Michigan relations.

SPEAKING OF MICHIGAN! Ryan is playing tonight, the WHOLE game with Jhonas backing him up. Patty didn't get to play the whole game...

...anywho, other new guys in the mix are Goose, TC, Matty Ellis, Patty K, Mike Grier, Peaches, and Toni Bear. I'm excited some ' seasoned' defensemen are going in tonight. They can help out the little ones, even if it's only to kiss the boo boos better.

Shelby and I will be listening to the game at the same time of watching Dirty Dancing...not even kidding.

After tonight, the boys head to Washington to hopefully not re-create Thursday night. Then, they are back here for the second (and final) home preseason game against the Leafs.

It's also going to be Shelby and I's first game together...

...I wonder if they let you blog from a holding cell.

Spell Check, Peeps!

2009-09-18T07:43:00.003-04:00

I had remembered hearing about this on another site (cannot remember who) and last night finally checked it out for myself.

Sabres people can spell Afinogenov backwards and drunk, but a Finnish name (spelled how it's pronounced, or at least how Toni tells us to pronounce it) suddenly gets ripped off.

Come on, people! Focus! Even if it amuses the guy...

Re-Cap...Get it? Cap? Anyone?

2009-09-18T00:27:00.009-04:00

I'm so excited, this is my first post game blog! I've been blogging for months, but started in June so it makes sense.

Anyways, hockey is back! It almost felt like it never left. Unfortunately, I have to open with a losing game, but they didn't go down without a fight...literally Mike Weber almost killing a guy.

A few of my observations:

- The girls behind me were so close to being a scene in a bad horror movie. I saw them at training camp all week, and of course they end up behind me. They screamed at EVERYTHING (including calling Ennis Tennis?) and it really took away from the game. Ugh.

- A few Caps ganged up on Nate. How do you get them off? Why, you put Tyler Myers out there.

- Patty was sans banana hat. Hopefully he's just keeping it fresh until the home opener, but he can't just not do it anymore.

- Shelby, who did not actually view the game, had to tell me what that was on the top of Patty's mask. Apparently, it was a camera. For what? We don't yet know. The refs had one, too, but Jhonas didn't? This could be the beginning of something awesome...or weird.

- Derek Roy bugged me. I mean, when doesn't he? But here we are, a fresh new start in the PRE SEASON, and what's he doing? Diving. Not to mention, diving to the point where he almost took out Drew. There are a huge amount of rookies willing to kill the other to make this team, and this jerk, who is having his spot handed to him on a silver platter is still jerking around. As Shelby put it, this was so four years ago!

- He was also captain, I didn't like that. I bet Craigory was in the press box banging his head on the wall/table/Hanks arm. But, TV had one of the A's and that was great. I think he would be good in that role, as long as it doesn't stress him out more. Also, I didn't notice until the second period or so, and proceeded to text STOP THE PRESSES! to Shelby.

- Jhonas and Patty both did excellent, excellent jobs and are the reasons that game wasn't burying us alive. I don't care that Jhonas got a penalty, it was an innocent one. Both were on their game, and should be proud of themselves. Also, I will take out a bitch who knocked that poor boy down. Even if he did get in the way by standing on the bench.

- At one point towards the end of the game, Tyler Myers dove in front of the net. I think Jhonas is still trying to figure that one out.

- Two rookies collided when one was leaving the bench and the other was going back. It was kind of cute, but very silly to think they were so into it they didn't see it coming. I hope Lindy doesn't take off points for that.

- I totally forgot Mike Knuble plays for the Caps now. I kind of like him, but not tonight.

- Why does Drew always look so scared during a shift? Is it Thomas? Is it Derek? Does Lindy have a battery secretly hooked up to his nipples. Sorry about the imagery.

- I should be able to pay more attention at Wednesdays game, because I won't be texting Shelby...because she'll be sitting next to me.

Well, I Suck.

2009-09-16T22:24:00.004-04:00

Shelby so kindly pointed out to me that the so-called Sekera picture is actually Timmy C.

Lookin good, lookin good! Except, there were no flip flops in the 1950s...then again, there was no HSBC Arena either.

My bad...Craigory distracted me, and I saw bald and assumed Sekera cause why wouldn't it be? Other than the fact that it was Timmy...

God, you put one man on the bad headshot list, and this is what he does!

Lets call a truce, Timmy. Hug?

Hehehe.

2009-09-16T21:54:00.003-04:00

So, I wasn't going to post tonight. I'm being a bad blogger, I know, but I'm fighting some sort of mystery illness, and it's taking a lot out of me.

Like I was saying, wasn't going to post, but then I was on Caroline's blog, and I saw that there were some Catwalk photo-shoot pictures added. They can be seen here.

Let me just get this out of the way now. Ryan Miller should have been born in the 1950's. It suites him so well and I think he'll look smashing in November

But let us focus on why we're all here.

This is going to be the last thing Craigory ever remembers from the Catwalk.

Chris Drury never looked this stylin', folks!

The best part is, he looks like he was just randomly at that stop sign on Perry Street and they took that. Like, hello!

I'll probably be peeling Shelby off her living room floor tomorrow.

Today I attended my third training camp session, and it looks as though everyone is alive. I still get a little over excited when I see Drew, even if he is sometimes a pain to the world of photography.

10727_638749784055_90400158_38208468_4542629_n.jpg

Down in front!

Gosh, one good headshot, and suddenly you can just stick your butt wherever you want!

Don't worry, where there is agony, there is amusement. For instance,

10727_638749794035_90400158_38208470_4497794_n.jpg

Peaches and his missing pearly white. He's so proud of that.

10727_638749624375_90400158_38208439_6113492_n.jpg

A smiling Finn! (wait until they tell him he's on a line with Drew...)

10727_638924309305_90400158_38215190_788401_n.jpg

And last, but certainly not least, Gerbe boy standing on a booster stand to watch the practice group

(it was just as amusing to watch him jump down from it). I cannot seem to look at that boy without giggling.

Anywho, tomorrow is the preseason game. And what comes after the preseason? The REAL season! I am so excited for tomorrow, but will actually believe that when I can stay awake for more than fifteen minutes. Also, I'm nervous to find out who's actually playing. I'd like to wear my Patty jersey at least once to a game that he actually needs.

Luckily, the great city of Buffalo remains safe for a week, as the game Shelby and I are going to attend isn't until next week. Red carpets and Finnish flags all around, folks!

Also, random side note. Tonight was the finale of America's Got Talent (which means my obsession is over...at least until the Bad Girls Club started). My original guy didn't make it to the finals, and my back up guys placed third, but I am really proud of the guy who won. His name is Kevin Skinner, he's a chicken catcher from the south (not kidding). He's not the best singer in the world, and the second finalist was a really good opera singer. But, I just love his charm and his personality, so I am SO proud of him.

In case you care, this was his audition:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=to_dareBr5Q&feature=related

Stupid YouTube won't let me embed it. He's like Susan Boyle (except he won) never judge a book by its cover, and if you make fun of people, you'll get smacked!

Before Ze Nyquil Claims Me

2009-09-15T22:51:00.002-04:00

I now know how dreaded my parents were when I brought home school pictures.

Alright, lets do this.

The Good:

Though I did like Toni's picture from last year, and no one else seemed to, I think this one will satisfy all around. Good posture, good proportion, and good smile! AND do I suspect some hair growage? Yes, I do!

Oh Adam Mair! Okay, first off since Adam made the top five cancels out all other times I am bias. Yes, it's a goofy smile, we all know it. But, to be Adam Mair and produce said goofy smile is spectacular. Plus, he did this knowing that he's benched for the time being, but still sat down with his a-game. Good job, Adam!

Could Hank's smile be a tad bigger? Of course, he's Swedish. But, he has hair, and that ranks him in the top five.

Come on, people. It's Paul Gaustad. He could have sat down covered in green paint (!) and still looked fantastic. Especially loving his hair this season.

THIS I can look forward to all season. Especially following last seasons zombie attack, I think this is a superb picture of Drew! He's not smug, he's not flesh eating, he is just adorable! Fantastic! I cannot love it enough. Katebits would be proud of you, Drew.

The Bad

Patty, I swear to God it kills me to put you here (especially with Adam in the Top 5, what's up with that?). It's not that I think this is a bad picture, it's that- as my dad loves to say- you are capable of so much more. That smile is like they posted the picture at 75%. No worries, we know the truth about you!

Mike, I'm giving you the same look you're giving me.

Something about this bugs me...not sure what yet.

Timmy...no. Nothing, not even another season in Portland, is that dull in your life right now.

I accept your baldness, and THIS IS WHAT YOU DO TO ME!? Next year, we are getting hand puppets to put next to the camera, that is it!

The Clarke MacArthur

I don't need the Nyqul for that to freak me out...

Night, folks!

Christ on a Cracker!

2009-09-14T18:00:00.001-04:00

- Saturday was Craigory's birthday! The big 3-5 ! Shelby and I celebrated the only way we found necessary...

Why, by giving him a turkey! Not really. Its actually a raspberry cake. As for gifts, he received a teddy bear (complete with fighting tape), a license plate, a card that made noise, and the first part of a top secret superhero story. We'll get back to that another day...

We waited behind the arena until 4pm on Sunday to give it to him, we weren't going to give up. He seemed very...confused, but nevertheless said ' you shouldn't have.' Okay, so maybe he was a little weirded out, but trust me, he got over it.

- The Puck Drop wasn't all that great, in my opinion. Here's the article I wrote for mybuffalo.com on it.

http://www.mybuffalo.com/_Sabres-Drop-Puck-on-2009-2010-Season/blog/714460/85283.html

The only excitement that came of it was seeing Drew on the ice, though it left us all wondering.

SPEAKING OF DREW FUCKING STAFFORD!

dear GOD it is FINALLY OVER!

The funny thing is, I got the text from the Sabres Sunday morning, but for the first time ever I didn't check it. However I think God, Geico, and AT&T wanted to keep my safe until I got to Shelbys house where SHE told me. I proceeded to put my head in her lap and go ' OH MY GOD!' for a good two minutes.

He's shocked that his Google search stats are going to plummet. Then again, I still Google him just to see the headlines (f0r now).

And 2 years, 3.8 million? I was expecting Vanek The Sequel with how long this bad boy took. The money will keep message boards from exploding, that's for sure. I was hoping for more years but obsessive compulsive weirdoes can't be choosers, right? And, I think Shelby and I will need a year off from this craziness.

If you'll excuse me, I have to go figure out why my life existed prior to his qualifying offer.

Poke

2009-09-13T22:39:00.001-04:00

I swear I'm getting around to a post...

...once I am peeled off the ceiling.

My Little Shark :)

2009-09-10T22:19:00.002-04:00

Dear Dany Heatley,

I'm sorry you got a lot of crap in this off season. Though I am rather bias, I truly believe you were over frustrated, and no one was listening to you properly. Anyways, the Senators are a thing of your past, and I have recently learned that you are on your way to San Jose (a nice rhyme, eh?). Hopefully, you fit in well, and I think you will. They're a good team, and you're a good guy, so everyone should be happy!

Shelby and I are planning to go to the San Jose game here, because in case you missed it, she's recently becoming to like you, so it'll be great to see you (even if it won't be as often with Ottawa). Maybe we'll even look in to some San Jose shirts...but I don't want to push too hard with her.

Anywho, don't ever think I gave up on you! This league is too full of money hungry jerks, wanting some pride in your work is a nice breath of fresh hair.

Best of luck in Cali! Now that I know San Jose is in California.

Love always,

Tamara :)

p.s- say hi to Joey for me!

p.p.s- why is Murray denying it? Because now he knows the team is REALLY going to hell? Sorry, you're not the guest of honor to answer questions!

Off Season is Overrrr

2009-09-10T15:31:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is training camp...which means the biggest stomach ache of an offseason is over.

And, while there is no official announcement (yet)....

1.) He finally came out of the woodwork...

2.) He's on the camp roster

(side note: I love that Goose is the only one listed that has two positions)

He's here, he's ours, its over. Four agonizing months, over two since his initial offer.

And Blogspot takes a collective sigh of relief.

Ahhhhhhhh. Phew.

Commitment Issues and Giant Zambonis

2009-09-10T05:52:00.004-04:00

I know what you're thinking...what is she dong up this early? Well, my tummy decided that 5 am was as late as I had to go this morning, which was complete shit. I only have class until 9:30 (to which I will then rush to the Pepsi Center one last time) but I can already feel the pain.

It's okay, naps are becoming regular routine with me.

So, I'm killing time by painting my fingernails lime green (to match my toenails). I was warned that its a bad idea before going in to such a professional setting on Saturday. But, I don't consider half naked hockey players ' professional' (even when they're clothed, it's a tough call).

I also spent some time changing the template (haha, again!). Honestly, I don't think I'm ever going to be happy with it, so don't get too comfortable. I just hope this isn't a preview of my married life...though the Sabres likely are.

Oh! Somewhat fun news. Somewhere in the course of yesterday, one of my teachers made me sign up for the internship class and is now working to get me a sports reporting internship at Channel 2 (he's a hardcore guy, he didn't even know my name before we did all this). I don't watch the news too often, but I only watch Channel 2. I don't know why, I just love them. Our broadcasting class 2-ish years ago took a trip there for the 5 o'clock news and I was on the edge of my seat with bright eyes and all that jazz.

And sports? Lets face it, five minutes in they'll realize I know about as much as football as Yo-Yo knows about baseball and HOPEFULLY stick me with the Sabres (look at me! I haven't even been interviewed yet!). Either way, I have a thing for Adam Benigni, not like that, he just seems like a cool guy. He kind of reminds me of Adam Mair (seriously, go look at it, he does) so I think that I can be reminded of Mair without being scared is always a perk.

Speaking of Adam Mair, I am starting to mentally prepare to cover the Puck Drop. For anyone who doesn't know, last year was pretty scary for me, and I tried to dodge the bullet this year. But, part of being an unpaid intern is that no one gives a shit about you.

Though, looking back on last season, I am going to avoid/do things that I didn't do last September. For example...

- Eat breakfast. I think Natey P and I will both be thankful for that one.

- When I asked who I want to interview, I won't answer honestly. Last year, I asked for Hank and got Adam. So, this year maybe if I ask for Steve Montador, I'll get Patty (I probably won't, I'll probably get Steve Montador).

- Avoid Adam Mair all together. He'll likely be there, and not skating so more chances to encounter him. But, post hip surgery, there's a good chance I'm faster than him.

- NOT peer into the locker room when they stand me in the hallway. In all fairness to them, the chances that a 20-something intern is in the hallway and sees THAT are rather slim, but it can be easily avoided, and thus, should.

- Smack Drew Stafford. This I did not do last season (I'm not even sure if I saw him) but I think it serves a purpose this year. I learned to love him over this off season, but the love was not returned. Also, I feel like if I do it in front of Toni, Hank, Patty, Craigy...whoever else is up at the end of this coming season, they'll think ' wow, we shouldn't do what he did, she'll get mad.' Yes, she will.

- Somehow ask Craigy his favorite sweet. Shelby and I are going to spend Saturday night making a birthday treat for Sunday, and it would be nice to go in a direction of something he likes (though everyone like chocolate cake, it'd be nice to do something special). I'm not sure how I could squeeze that in there...asking about the changes to the blue line, an old teammate returning, chocolate vs. vanilla? Maybe this would be easier if they asked HIM that during the ten stupid questions thing.

Ugh.

On a closing note, I saw this on another blog....

First off, let me just say that is my DREAM...a zamboni get away on a city street (it doesn't have to be Manhattan, and I'm not sure there is such thing as getting away on a zamboni, but in comparison to my old car, it's a good start). I like to think this wasn't staged...he got bored, and went off on it. And when he returned, there were a number of tourists wedged under that bad boy. But, I'm probably not that lucky.

I've always had a soft spot for Ovie (mostly because he's not Crosby). He seems to be an easy going guy, and always up for a joke, or something silly.

Though I'm sure his antics are easily spotlighted because he's Russian and all, and Russians don't do this kind of thing, I think he has some tough competition.

Ovie, buy some leopard print pants, and we'll talk.

However, I don't recommend it.

FOUND!

2009-09-09T21:06:00.002-04:00

In case anyone was really that concerned....

Patty Cake has been found! (ignore the orange soda, but this picture does very well sum up the loves in my life). He shouldn't run off like that anymore, it's really scary.

Also found...

Not my picture, clearly. I don't have one from him today, because I wasn't there. But I did get reports that the Goose has returned to his team. I would have expected him to be the first one there back in ...July? August? I'm not sure when I started going. But, between saving the lepers in Africa, and probably being the one to personally make/perfect the ice at HSBC (go on the Sabres twitter, the picture is there. It's nothing new, I know, but some may get a kick out it).

In reality, Goose was in Portland visiting his mommy...and that is much better than getting ragged on by Petey.

Also, after much fighting and attempting to hide under my bed, I AM working the Puck Drop on Saturday. Gahhh. But, there is no word saying I actually have to go near any players, but they're probably lying so I don't disappear...or something.

And no props to Mr. Obama, his speech ran late and it cut into Americas Got Talent. Now I get to watch like ten minutes before I have to go to work.

And it's a results show!

Few Things.

2009-09-09T07:38:00.004-04:00

I'm kind of in a rush. Its my second day of school, I have to beat traffic/parking issues, and only have half my hair straightened. But, since yesterday made me even FORGET blogging, here it is!

- Speaking of hair, my friend and I tried stripping my hair color yesterday to dye over it. I now have blonde/red/copper hair. I also went to sleep with it wet, so when I walked by the mirror half asleep earlier, I thought Brian Campbell was back in Buffalo (and somehow in my room).

- The Finn is BACK! His hair, however, is not. That's okay, we got lucky with the Swede, right?

- Goose is not. Neither is Drew. This is very suspicious...

- Still no contract announcement.

- I LOVE Chris Butler.

- Last night at Chefs, the hostess purposely sat us at the table next to a bunch of rookies (" they're not sabres, they're just trying" she said). It was a very awkward half an hour. JP Lamoureux (who we thought was Jhonas for a bit) kept staring at Shelby and I....but we didn't know it was him until after. He also forgot his food, and we considered going after him. TJ Brennan was also the only one we recognized at the time.

- Steph threatened to punch me during that half hour

- I wish there was a way to take chocolate milk to school.

- Patty the Bobblehead is MIA! I thought he was in my car, and he is not! The going suspect is JP, actually. He forgot his food, but took the love of my life! Any information of his whereabouts is greatly appreciated.

- Puck Drop is like the day after tomorrow (or not). And last night I just realized that the first pre-season game is in a WEEK! This is exciting stuff people!

- Today is my first day not going to the Pepsi Center. So, likely, the MIAs will show up.

And if you excuse me, I have to return to playing host to Soupy's hair.

Putting the ' Labor' back in ' Labor Day'

2009-09-07T09:45:00.004-04:00

I am about two hours into an 8 hour shift at Labor Day. So while you all may skim through this while laying by the pool in the nice heat, before September really hits (I start school tomorrow...scary) please think of the freezing cold girl behind the receptionist desk. With no one here! Other than my Danny Briere co-worker (okay, he just looks like him, but whatever).

However, after this shift I only have three hours of work separating me from the Puck Drop (which may be considered work, we're not sure yet). I know I'm excited for the Puck Drop, or at least will be...soon. Right now, I'm kind of mellow, but Friday night I will be unbearable.

While I may not yet be excited (openly), there are some things I am definitely looking forward to in the days/weeks/months ahead.

- Opening night. I know it's further away from the Puck Drop, and I shouldn't be more excited for that at this point, but there is nothing better than being at a game where it's so fresh that they're is actually hope for the team! It's an undesirable feeling, but I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about. A breath of fresh air...fresh air being the cold vents inside the arena. I'm so excited, I almost want to start planning what jersey to wear...

- My first day of classes, which is actually tomorrow....Medaille is a bunch of late bloomers, we know.

- Shelby and I creating superheroes (yes, wouldn't YOU like to know!)

- Nashville trip. I already promised myself that no jersey is coming on that trip, just my Goose jersey shirt. It's Nashville, I'm not exactly going to go in there guns ablazing, because I don't think they even like the Predators that much.

- To see whether or not Toni has hair. Don't get me wrong, the hurdle we jumped with Hank was HUGE, and not to mention much more important, the many changes of Toni Lydman always leaves me wondering.

However, for the Olympics, I would not mind (in fact, i would LOVE and highly encourage) a repeat of this

Yes, Toni, I know that helmet hair is hard to avoid, and a definite occurrence should such hair come back. Don't worry, I still like what it can do.

- Christmas...I mean, duh. And I might be spending Christmas in NYC...the CITY of Christmas. Random, I know.

- Seeing some guy named Paul Gaustad. I just realized that in the wake of worrying about the Finn and Drew, I've forgotten about Goose...the heart/soul/lone goal scorer in some games. I thought he'd be around the Pepsi Center. BUT, I am stoked for his return, and hope he's doing okay.

Shelby and I actually went on a Paul Gaustad praise last night (though it's almost a daily thing). We were going back to his days of using little children as shields

(You can't see it here, but he does have an apron on. How manly...no, really). I do wonder if there actually is a Sabres fan out there who does not like Goose. Little children, flour, aprons, tree planting, can saving....other stuff.

And lets not forget, the woman who made it all possible.

Now we know where he gets his inspiration from. Not to mention his interpersonal skills, good manner, and if you look closely...good looks.

So, I think this Labor Day should be celebrated not from the crappy minimum wage jobs we work (or the pesky nine to five ones) but the work that GOOSE does (i'm not trying to knock anyones jobs, I'm just trying to be proud)

Yep.

Enjoy your holiday, folks!

Because I'm Bored at Work

2009-09-06T15:00:00.005-04:00

-I meant to mention this last night, but word on the street is Jocelyn TBO is employed. That's right, folks, he has a job! Granted I never ranked him with so many others who are unemployed right now, but it's good to see he has come out of the suspicions that he was dead (if only Nolan Pratt would do the same...)

He's returning to his former team, the Avalanche, to be a (part time) goalie consultant. Not too shabby, buddy. It's a tough world for a goaltender out there anyways...

- I found this picture floating around a few days ago, and have been meaning to mention it...

How is that not the most adorable thing ever? Chris Butler always looks like a kiddo, Nate..well, we all know that story, and Timmy has the most ' I'm six years old, and look, my front teeth have grown back in!' smile. I LOVE it. I also love how Nate is the only one standing...but anyways, I'll be excited to have this happy bunch on the team...when it happens.

- Why did I think I wanted to report more on this?

- Posting that last video led me to re-discover THIS one that I found ages ago....

I don't exactly want Patty to quit his day job, but just as adorable none the less.

- Dear Drew Stafford,

We all know you freaking did it. Months of agony are so close to becoming an end if you just let them

announce it! For the sake of all bloggers health, do it!

Thank you in advance,

Pookey

Taping Your Stick: Featuring Patty Lalime

2009-09-06T13:53:00.000-04:00

I found this gem while looking on Chicago's and Ottawa's websites for old videos of him

this, people is adorable. And take notes...TICK TAPE!

Rambles II

2009-09-05T22:27:00.003-04:00

The guy I'm sitting with at work right now is actually a huge hockey fan...not of the same pages as me, but it's fun to have new discussions....he actually just told me he hates Marty, things could get ugly.

Anywho, I think some hockey things need to be covered, aside from Hank's hair (not to say that is not big news).

- Drew Stafford is signed...pretty much. I'll have the big celebratory blog when its announced, but lets face it, its a done deal. And the week leading up to training camp, nice heart attack, Drew. You beat Ryans record three-ish years ago that left be as just as much of a mangled mess (back when I liked him).

- I have not actually read Jerry Sullivan's article that has everyone in an uproar, but based on what I heard no one has the right to tell anyone how to be a fan. We buy what the Sabres sell, and they don't see us through to the end (yet). But, it's what keeps them alive, and we all know that even if we were to stop being fans now, we would be back for the finals...when and if that ever happens.

- I have never been so impressed with a Sabre as I am with Nathan Gerbe right now. Again, still haven't read the article, but the gist of it is that he will play any position called on him, but he is NOT going to Portland this season...

You know what this reminds me of...

But in somewhat seriousness, good for you, Nate! There are a number of players that are automatically getting spots that probably don't have the drive that he does. It's the kind of heart we NEED on this team, and it will start with the little guy!

I really don't know how that roster is going to shape out with all things that are up in the air right now, but I hope it works out for him.

And to all bloggers reading this...you are cordially invite to the ' Drew Stafford Signed a Freaking Contract' Partay....see, we really were going to do it!

We're aiming for Saturday after the Puck Drop...a get together for dinner or what not. Love Drew or hate him...it would be fun to all meet up in person. Let Shelby or I know if you're interested.