While I'm Up at 7 am

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.

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

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.

Little Guys and Swedes and guys named MONTY!

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. 

How Swede It Is.

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!

Keep it Classy, Philly!

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!

Since When...

- 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?

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

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.

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

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!

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. 

Commitment Issues and Giant Zambonis

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. 

Few Things.

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.

That's QUEEN to You

So, I just read that Spencer Pratt legally changed his first name to ' King.' Just when you think you can't hate someone more. Honestly, he ranks below Derek Roy in my books as far as public behavior, and that's hard to do. I fear that Spencer ever comes to Buffalo and the two meet and...bond. I shiver at the very thought. But, he could always get Derek to go on next seasons ' I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!'...and then we have freed cap space. 

...just saying. 

Anywho. 

Yesterday morning, Shelby and I were spending one of our last early mornings at the Pepsi Center, very happy to see the extreme change in number of Sabres from when we started going weeks ago. Then, there was one guy who was standing at the door to the rink talking to someone, and we could not pinpoint who he was...we couldn't see the front of his jersey, or his face, and there was no number on the back of his helmet. Mind you, there's a number of guys who we still have no idea who they are. 

As soon as he was on the ice, Shelby and I grabbed on to each other and yelled ' IT'S THE SWEDE!'

And it was!

For some reason, the Sabres always seem so much peppier with him there...well, not just ' some' reason, I think we know what it is. He kept chit chatting with Craig, and I'm sure he was excited because there was finally another defenseman there (a real one, Butler counts in his own way). Now if he could just get his Finnish bud involved before training camp...

Our friend asked him for an autograph when he got off the rink, in front of the locker room. I took at as the perfect opportunity to ask him if he had hair, because we all had to look at that bald(ish) yearbook picture for a whole year! I wanted his hair! I wanted his mohawks! After asking three times (and me gesturing my own hair) he said he did. He was then asked to remove his helmet to prove it. 

He could do better (in all fairness, he's all sweaty there). But we are on the right track! And for the record, that's the picture he got with my friend (you can see a bit of her hair, I just doubt she wanted to end up on this thing)...I didn't just get one to prove he had hair. I even emailed Heather about all this.

Good job, Hank!

In other news,

Patty the Bobblehead met Patty the Goaltender today. After weeks (or so it felt) of plotting, planning, deciding, changing our minds whenever we could, it finally happened. We were worried about catching him, because he carpools with J-Pom and spent a lot of time after practicing helping Marty carry stuff to his car (because I think he's finally going to New York. Not that I didn't like him being here, I loved it, but I was worried we would see him at the Puck Drop).

Shelby, like with Ryan, got his attention, and I think even added in ' we have a favor to ask you.' I gave him the same mumbo jumbo we gave Ryan, and then handed the little dude over. 

Look at those matching smiles!

According to Shelby, he said ' he's cute.' I'm honestly a horrible person to recall events when he's around, but I did hear him say ' I haven't seen him in awhile.' But he had fun with it, we think, and even signed him afterwards.

Shelby and I had a great discussion about which goalie did it better, after I put the two pictures next to each other. 

And now, we want others to decide! Do not hold the weird angel against them, that was my fault. When I took the one of Ryan, I was standing on a bench across from him, and with Patty I was on the ground in front of him (and he's, what, 6'6'' in skates?)

But it's great that the drunken bobblehead is making the rounds. 

On an endnote, Marty had his Islanders helmet yesterday...after weeks of using the Flyers one that he never actually wore in Philly. 

Here's what it looks like...

10727_637124531075_90400158_38115000_6748826_n.jpg

10727_637124526085_90400158_38114999_7212346_n.jpg

Oh, and props to Mike Weber for almost killing us with the puck that missed us by the length of Derek Roys...nevermind...

We Can All Ice Skate Tomorrow

because, evidently, hell has frozen over. 

A friend of mine texted me today asking if I wanted to go to the Bills game with her, a free ticket was within my reach. I apologized to her for ever giving off the impression that I liked football, despite our numerous conversations of how the Bills are stinky stink. 

Nevertheless, something caught my attention. I have never been to Ralph Wilson for an actual Bills game, just the Ice Bowl and something in high school when our team was doing well.

Long story short, I'm going to the Bills game tomorrow. Sadly, I am very excited. I went out and bought new jeans and sneakers (which I was overdue for regardless) and, get this, a Bills shirt. Not just any Bills shirt, a Paul Posluszny shirt. Something about those Time Warner commercials back in the day really made me want to choose him as my favorite Bill...or was it Adelphia (that is spelled wrong)? Heck, it was so long ago, who knows. BUT I hear he's a good player, and I haven't seen 51 in a longgggg time. 

Anywho, on to hockey for a quick thing.

The Sabres site is doing the top five shootout goals, and the picture advertising such is actually one of my favorite Sabres pictures of all time.

The top five things I LOVE about this photo are...

5.) Thomas Vanek...and how his love and appreciation for his teammate is there, however, you cannot feel it (like with God, you just have to believe it's there). I'm sure this picture was taken right in his moments of kicking himself because, it wasn't him that did it (it rarely ever is...don't kill my Shelby, you know it's true).

4.) Toni Lydman

3.) The fact that Toni Lydman scored that goal, proving yet again that usually-hated-and-underrated defensemen can pull through when needed. Just...not all the time.

2.) Drew Stafford. Big- and rare- grin, both arms in the air...happy for his idol/buddy. I'm sure many bloggers, who know of his usual grim expressions, are happy to see that. 

1.) HENRIK FREAKING TALLINDER! Look at him! LOOK AT HIM! Not only is he usually the happiest Sabre, but right there he is absolutely thrilled. I don't even think his feet are on the ground. His bff scores, and he is just happy, happy Hank. I love it.

However, I do debate that Toni was not like that when Hank scored last season. But, like with God- and Thomas Vanek- the love is there...you just can't see it.