McP feels...

Today is a time for feelings. Let's discuss, shall we?

Nervous excitement - I've got a Call Back tomorrow evening for the musical "Godspell." My first return to any kind of theatre in 6 years and my first venture into musical theatre since 2000.
Pride - I walked over ten miles this weekend with my "lil sis" for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. SUCH an amazing experience!
Love - McNephew saw a pictre of Carrie Underwear on my iPhone, pointed at it and said "Dat's you!" "No, baby, that's Carrie Underwood, but thank you!" "No, MeMack, that's YOU!" "if you insist my little nuggett."
Giddiness - The Penguins won the Stanley Cup!!!!!! I know, I know, I'm a Sharks fan, but if the Penguins won, that means THE RED WINGS LOST!!! AT HOME!!!! HAAAAAAA!!!!! (Sorry, Melmo)
Sadness - I just got home from getting most of my stuff from HM (formerly McMan)'s house. It was a lot harder than I thought it would be. My hands were uncontrollably shaking the whole time and nothing that i was trying to do to stop it worked. I had a few things over there that I had forgotten about and didn't have room for in my sedan. Suck.
Anger - Because I can't hate him - and believe me, people have done everything they can to get me to. It'd be so much easier if I could call him a douchebag, flip him off and tell him to take a flying leap. I can't' do that. I have to be a big kid. Being a big kid can bite my big toe.

I saved this one for last to remind myself of it:

Joy - My life is wonderful. I have a job, a beautiful and safe home, a wonderful family and amazing friends. I have talents and gifts and a God who loves me and has SO much in store for me. Patience, McP... Patience.


Also, 13 DAYS UNTIL CANADA DAY FIESTA 2009!!!!!!!! (i'm living for this, ladies and gents!)

McP on the mend

Well, it's day 9 and I'm on the way to feeling like my chipper, sunshiney self a little more every day. I'm sleeping through the night, the smell of food doesn't make me want to vomit and I haven't cried since Wednesday. In a week or so I might be able to hold up to my end of the bargain with HM (formerly known as McMan) that I'll call him (we're remaining friends once I can handle it).

Eddie is still sniffing around the spot on the couch left empty by HM and freaks out when I play "For Good" from Wicked (the song I played before he got to the house to drop the bomb). BUT! He's made the transition from kitten food to big kitty food.

SO! This summer is for McP. I'm auditioning for a musical this week, I'm finally recording an album and I'm committed to getting healthy - mostly so my boobs get smaller *crosses fingers* and my back doesn't hurt as much. Also, I'll be helping out with Ma and her treatments.

I have an amazing support system of friends and family. They have made the past week of my life filled with love, laughter and wonderful "dates". I love you all.

Have I mentioned I hate tumors?

For the past few years, a dear friend of mine has been dealing with tumors in her brain.

Last May, Fred reared his ugly head and ruined my June and July because my McMan was in pain

This May it's my Ma. After showing me the scar on her breast, she asked me what we could do to salvage her retirement job as a pole dancer.

Happily I can report the brain tumor is dead, Fred is dead and hopefully, in a few weeks, my mom's cancer will be gone.

Great time for my favorite Dr. Izzy Stevens to have tumors and start seeing Denny/Papa Winchester again. Hits a little too close to home, and I'm really wishing I hadn't eaten all of my girl scout samoas because those and a big glass of milk would make me feel better right now.

So, tumors? Fuck off. Fuck right off.

See you in September...

The dust has settled, the tears have subsided and the profanities have been replaced with words appropriate for McNephew to repeat like the tiny parrot he is.

Monday was a bad day. Mama had surgery, McMan announced his trip to Calgary (sans McP) and my Sharkies were ousted from the playoffs by Finny's QuackQuack Ducks. She phoned me after the game amidst the celebration at Honda Center to hear me having an emotional breakdown. I know, I know, it sounds like I'm way too invested in my team - but let's face it, everything compounded, I deserved a good cry (not to mention a stiff drink and some sort of refrigerated baked-good dough).

My opinion of the season:
WOW. What a team. There was a reason they won the President's Trophy. They had great communication on the ice, the team was playing cohesively, and the scoring came from every line. Nabby and Bouche were great in net and made the big saves when they needed to.

My opinion of the post-season:
Brief, yes, but filled with passion (shitting the bed in game 4 aside). The Getzlaf line did exactly what they needed to shut down Big Joe, Cap'n Patty and the Guch. The fight between Getzlaf and Thornton was a BEAUTY (even though i only got to see it in higlights - effing Versus...) - Just when I think I can't possibly love that big man any more, he goes and feeds lefts to Getzy like he's asking, "Please, sir, may I have some mo'?"

Anyone who knows my love of goalies is perplexed when they are with me while watching a Sharks game. I realize that Nabokov is a good goalie, but I lack confidence in him for some reason. My cries of "I LOVE MY GOALIE!!!!" at WHL games turn into "I love my goalie?" watching Nabby. It's a love/hate relationship. I think after the two losses at home, and especially during game 4, Boucher should've been in net - if for nothing else than to send a message to the team. When that man is hot in net, the thing becomes inpenetrable. Would it have made a difference in the series? Maybe, maybe not. Jonas Hiller took on the role of the Jaws-killing "Brody" like Johnny Depp took on the role of Jack Sparrow - it was scary.

My thoughts on changes to be made within the team:
The cry all around, "Trade Joe Thornton because he doesn't produce during playoffs!"
I call bullshit on that. Like I said earlier, Game 4 aside, this was a battle against Hiller and the team in front of him knew exactly who to shut down to help their goalie on his superstar streak.
Sure some off-season changes will be made, that's going to happen anywhere, but I don't think trading Thornton is the answer. He's the assist-king. He's a passer that shoots when he has the opportunity (and those are usually in the back of the net).

To tell you the truth, I'm not a coach or a gm (don't look so shocked! lol) and I don't know what's going on inside the locker room, but it seems to me that with a season like this one, those HUGE trades would only break the chemistry down.

My inner-struggle with who to root for now:
I'm torn. While I don't want to root for the team who made mine look like their red-headed step-child (i can say that - i am one), one of the fibers woven into my being is the one that is Coach Carr from Mean Girls repeating in my ear "If you cheer for the Red Wings, you will get pregnant and die". (Seriously, it was almost a deal-breaker when first dating McMan)
Advantage: Quacks
Plus, if they win the whole thing, it makes the sting of losing to them in the first round not quite as bad.

My parting words for the Sharks 2008-2009 Season:
After the home-and-home to end the regular season, I was afraid of meeting the Ducks in the first round. They're a good team and they fought hard to win in the Shark Tank and got the job done. Had it been any other team, I'm fairly certain I'd still be rocking my Roenick jersey, rushing to the car to turn on my XM on my way home to plop myself in front of the HD feed, cheering my team on. It wasn't the Sharks' year, yet again. Maybe being an Ams fan through the good, the bad, and now back to the good has prepared me for this.

I ♥ my team. See you next season, Sharkies.

First two games: a reaction.

EFF.

That's my reaction. EFF.

Jonas Hiller is doing the same thing Giguiere did back in 2003, and it's pissing me off.

Down 2 games, the Sharks need to figure out how to get more than a couple pucks past this guy. Powerplay needs to improve and Nabokov needs to get his swagger back.

I've got a massive sore throat, so the yelling, though massive in quantity, was quite subdued.

Come on, Sharkies. I freakin believe in you - you can do this.

Flying Monkey Report - Playoff Mission 09-01: Complete

McPhizzle wanted us to get this posted yesterday, but we had a bit of a change in plans when we arrived at the inner sanctum of Girlwithapuck.com. You see, normally, being flying monkeys and all, we’re pretty good about getting in, getting what we want and then getting out. However, McP failed to warn us about the canine that has been added to Finny’s family. We hate dogs – especially dogs that don’t fall for our “go fetch” distraction techniques. Luckily, one of us had some beef jerky in a pouch that gave us enough time to move the photo of the Quacks hoisting the cup in 2007, console one member of the squadron who went into hysterics about how it should’ve been the Senators, and crack the code to (STRIKE) steal(/STRIKE) *ahem* borrow the list Ms. Finny had been keeping safe for Randy Carlyle. P.S. Finny, You should really change the combo on that safe. 37-55-55? Ducks-Lightning-Canucks? Anyone who has half an O’Brain cell would figure those jersey numbers out... If you’re picking up what we’re putting down.

Enjoy,
The Flying Monkeys.

Intercepted Communique Labeled Top Secret.

To: Randy Carlyle
From: Christy Finn

RE: Top 10

• 10. Cup Count. Anaheim: 13 players, total of 17 Rings. San Jose: 6 players, total of 9 Rings. The Ducks have more than half their roster full of men who’ve fully experienced the bitter battle and tasted the sweetness of Victory, drinking it freely from Lord Stanley’s Cup. They know what it’s like to heft that three foot trophy into the air, claim it as their own, and spend an entire summer celebrating their conquest. They also know the pain of watching something they’ve lain claim to pass on into the hands of another, the hands of an opponent, the hands of someone else. They’ll be driven to do what they can to give them another chance at re-claiming their lost treasure. And, more importantly, they know what they need to do, what kind of sacrifice, what kind of superhuman ability will be required – not asked – of them come puck-drop. Now, it’s go time.
• 09. Quacks No Longer. Once ridiculed as a joke, the Ducks long dropped their image as diminutive quacks trying to get people to take them seriously. Instead, they’ve adopted a rep for being a bully. It’s just like that kid you poked fun at when he was smaller, fatter, slower than you… until he grows up to become a lean, mean, hefty, muscled grown teenager with a long memory and a complex from all the teasing you put him through. Then, the funny business ends and the revenge of the one-time loser begins. Same story. Anaheim went from joke to yoked in a couple of seasons, bulldozing their way to the Cup in 2007. The 2009 Ducks aren’t too different from that squad. Some of the players have changed, but not the formula. Anaheim still boasts a line-up that doesn’t fear a pair of fists from the expected (George Parros) down to the unexpected (Bobby Ryan).
• 08. The Big 8. What can I say? I love Teemu Selanne. He’s a former Shark, so there’s a little added incentive to gain the upper-hand. Nevermind that the Sharks have a couple ex-Ducks who were part of the Cup-winning team in 2007, so clearly they have some added incentive to up their game against Anaheim. Still, with Selanne entering his waning years in the league, I’m sure he’ll be pumped up to make this run a good one. If anything, he’ll definitely be a problem for the Sharks if he gets the chance to. He’s ranked 5th in the NHL with 16 PPGs.
• 07. 4-on-4. No, not the play. I’m talking about Claude Lemieux’s four Cup Rings vs. Scott Niedermayer’s four Cup Rings. Lemieux, at age 43, may not have enough gas in the tank to push him through a grinding series against the Ducks. He’s one of those guys who can elevate his game when it comes down to playoff time and can provide veteran presence for the young Sharkies, but he’s got nothing but his age to beat out Anaheim’s four-time Cup winner, Scott Niedermayer. Scotty’s got a 8 year advantage on Lemieux at the ripe, youthful age of 35, and who’s still at the top of his game, all day, everyday. Scotty’s won every single major hockey championship in his career, from the Memorial Cup, World Junior Championship gold, World Championship gold, Olympic gold, four Stanley Cups, and the World Cup of Hockey. Advantage: Niedermayer. Come to think of it, Scotty always comes with the advantage… So, advantage: Anaheim.
• 06. Double D. As in, defense. Anaheim’s got the blueline special backing them up all the way to the crease, and the line runs deep. Two Norris Trophy winners beef up the blueline in Scott Niedermayer and rough-and-tough (maybe too-tough) Chris Pronger, and the newly returned Boom-Boom specializer, Francois Beauchemin. Added into that mix is Ryan Whitney who played a big role in defending his former team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, to the Finals in ’06.
• 05. Streaky Sneaky. The Ducks fumbled through much of their season, until they pulled it together to run a hot 7-2-1 record in their last 10. The Sharks, on the flipside of things, fumbled a bit with a 5-4-1 Last-10 record. If they keep that up, they’ll end up repeating history and being shown the door by their younger, southerner siblings. If the Ducks keep up their hotness, they’ll streak right on past the Sharks, but it definitely won’t be easy.
• 04. You Score, I Score. Anaheim’s offensive talent tips heavily in the direction of the Big Boys on the Numero Uno line, yet Scott Niedermayer, Rob Niedermayer* and Chris Pronger nailed over 10 goals each, indicating that offense can come off any line and at any given time. Most of the opposition will cite the chunk of goals bearing the Perry-Ryan-Getzlaf or Selanne name to mean that if they can shut them down, they’ll lock the quarterfinal up in their favor. I wouldn’t be so sold on that argument if I was San Jose since the name of the game is Step It Up (also known as: Win or Go Golfing), I’ll guarantee some playoff heroes will emerge when others are overly-focused on the moneymakers. [*No word on how many of those goals were empty-netters. Safe to say, a lot of 'em were.]
• 03. Monster Goalie. Okay, so he’s had his crappy moments this season, still J.S. Giguere has the ability to steal some games if need be (since it's a safe bet that Jonas Hiller will get the nod before J.S. does). But he’s done it before, he can definitely do it again. In 2003, he tossed the whole of the bench on his back and heroically carried them to within one game of Cup glory. In 2006, he brought us to the WCF where we lost to the eventual Cup-winners. And in 2007, he backed us up the distance and enabled us to snatch the Cup from Ottawa. Despite his less-than-impressive season, Jiggy still has it in him… he just needs to lay it all out on the ice and get the job done. No ifs, ands, or buts about it.
• 02. Chew Up Cheechoo. That’s not necessarily a real reason why Anaheim ought to win, but really, something’s got to be done about that little sniper. Anaheim’s got the manpower to do it. The question that remains is will Anaheim find a way to take Cheechoo-choo down?
• 01. SoCal > NorCal anytime, anyplace. ‘Nuff said. Bring it on, NorCal. The Ducks are hella ready.

Some interesting stuff up there. Needless to say, this will be a good series, filled with emotional, rivalry-filled games and a few choice texts and tweets swapped between McP and Finny. Yes, we’ve got plenty of beer in the fridge for game-watching. It’s a good thing, too – we’re on 24/7 patrol - Casa McP is on lockdown after the Radical Redhead herself found an intruder from GwaP hacking into her precious new laptop. Maybe Finny was up to the same tricks we were. Well played, Quack-fan, Well played.

Ask and Ye shall recieve!

I called it in Hammer's Liveblog last week!

THE RETURN OF THE TIMBERFRO!!!

*does a little dance*

*Ding dong*

"Hello, Quack quack?"
"Candy gram."
"Quack what??"
"Uh... Flowers."
"I'm allergic to flowers, Quack..."
"Stale bread?"
*duck opens door* "Oh no! Quack! Landshark!"

So it begins. The civil war of hockey in California. North versus South. McP versus Finny. We've already discussed it. Both returning to hockey blogging at the same time, this was bound to happen. We've vowed to remain friends no matter what the outcome is.

She's scared - as well she should be. My Sharkies won the President's Trophy this year - that's pretty impressive! Having a record of 32-5-4 at home this year bodes well for the fishes.

HOWEVER - The Sharks and Ducks have battled it out all year. I'm not thinking the Quacks are going to swim right over to an exposed dorsal fin or anything. The Sharks need to want this. The need to play for it and they need to work as a team to get there.

I'm not skipping ahead to any thoughts on the second round, because, well, the first hasn't technically started yet. Let's just say I have confidence in my team. And I'll be on my couch sporting the 27 of My precious JR every game I can catch.

Edouard says "me too, mama." (which sounds an awful like "meow")

Night night WHL playoffs...

Well, it’s over. Spring and Summer are my favorite seasons. It’s almost ironic that my favorite sport, my “social life” and the place I feel most at home is someplace I only get to spend the Fall and Winter.

I wasn’t sure if I was going to make this entry or not, but after putting the sign up in my office that reads, “Yes, the Americans lost. Yes, the season is over. No, I don’t want to talk about it.” I figured I should get a few feelings out so that I didn’t flip out on the Corporate Express delivery guy when he will inevitably ask me how I’m doing with the outcome of the season despite the sign.

So the Rockets did some damage. Ok, a lot of damage. This time it was to the boys on the ice – not me. “Que?” you ask? Well, last time these two teams faced off in round 2 (2004) I got hit in the foot with an errant puck during OT. Bruised the bone – luckily I was wearing boots that night instead of my standard flip-flops. About two weeks later, I dot to gracefully walk onto the Miss TC stage for my audition with a lovely moon boot (aka walking cast). They beat us a few days later at home. Easter Sunday, as it were. Hmm... Maybe Jesus hearts Kelowna on his resurrection day?

It’s bittersweet, really. So many young men poured their heart and soul into this season, some veterans, some rookies. It’s going to be strange not to see a few faces on the ice next year.

Taylor Procsychen – I remember when that kid was a tiny, carrot-topped rookie taking photos with Wendy, Tawnie and I at post-game skates. Always more than willing to stop and say hi to fans big and small and offer a blessing over the meal and attendees at the Booster Club’s annual Christmas party.
You gave your very best effort on the ice to us for five years and led the team in so many ways. Please be very proud of yourself and the man you’ve become - we are. Let the Lord guide you in your future endeavors and please come back and visit whenever possible.

Jason Reese – It’s hard to even think that he once wore a Giants uniform. All I can think of now is the vocal forward in red, white and blue. As close as we’ve gotten to a “local boy” in a few years, it was great hearing his mom scream his full given name when he would drop the gloves and seeing his proud little sister always wearing his button and becoming a familiar face around the rink.
Thanks for helping me choose the quesadilla that night at Applebee’s – I’ll think of you every time I order it now – especially with a “Brewtus” sized beer!

Mitch Fadden – The other half of this year’s “Red Headed Wonder Twins”. I’m not gonna lie, I’ve been a fan of this kid since he played for the Thunderbirds (shut up, we all know I’m a traitorous whore). I’ve never seen an Am with better puck handling AND a great personality. When he asked McNephew for “knucks” after a post-game skate, he had my Auntie-heart on a platter. Now, whenever he has his finger up his two-year-old nose, we giggle and tell him to stop giving the “Mitch Fadden Salute”.
Good luck in your promising career, Mitch, and even though you only spent 52 games here, please don’t forget how much we love and appreciate how hard you worked for our team.

Chet Pickard – This one hurts. He’s most likely played his last game in an Ams sweater, and while I’m excited for him to move on and for his professional career to flourish, it’s hard for me to celebrate him not returning to us. One look at him skating back and forth after being scored on or up to the stands when Dan was in town to get feedback (via the famous hand signals) tells you how committed he was to playing well for the Ams. The same held true about his celebrations when a game had gone well. Possibly one of the most down-to-earth people I’ve ever met with his level of talent. That’s not surprising after meeting and becoming friends with his family.
Chet, you have no idea how much joy you brought to your little buddy, GoCamGo. Getting to skate with you is something he still talks about. There aren’t many little boys who can say that they took their first lap around the rink with a first round draft pick when they weren’t even two yet.
To the Pickard family – Thank you for sharing your son (and brother) with us and for sharing yourselves as well. I can’t wait to see you next year even though you’ll be cheering for the TBirds – Especially you, Kelly – I know this is supposed to be about your brother, but you’re one of the most fun people I’ve met in a long time and know I can always count on you for a laugh when I need one the most. I wish I had a hot, single brother for you to marry so you could be in my crazy-ass family.

I’m not going to speculate on which 19-year-olds will be back next year as it hurts my heart too much. Needless to say, with my “son” Jarrett being one of them, the 20 y/o deadline will be a nail biter for me.

To those returning to camp in August to earn their jobs back, have a good summer, but please be safe. There is so much talent brewing in each of you! I have a whole different perspective of the young boys this year for some reason this year. Maybe it’s because it has been three years since I’ve shared a house (and bathroom) with a rookie and have finally let go of the hurt that a certain player caused after leaving the team. Play hard, work out harder, do things that make you a little bit uncomfortable to broaden your comfort zone and do something nice for someone once in a while. (And Spencer, spend some time with your little sister – You’ll be gone from home for good in a few years and it really will mean more to her than you could imagine).

So, night-night, 2008-2009 Tri-City Americans. Thank you for an amazing year and another US Division Championship.

Oh yes, one more thing. GO GIANTS! BEAT THOSE DIRTY CHIEFS!

Ma McP and I cover the ACMs

After the Sharks game (and after Ma called to comment on Carrie Underwear) I turned on the ACMs in HD - which took a few minutes since I had to hook up an air-antenna - stupid Dish Network and Fisher Broadcasting fued...

Our text-fest started when Miss Carrie was performing "I Told You So" wearing that beautiful, billowing, red dress.

Ma: That dress is either over-the-top or just all over!
McP: I want to be her when I grow up... You think the red dress was to symbolize "standing by her man?"
Ma: For sure.
Ma: He was hiding under there with the whole team.
Ma: (re: her acceptance speech saying she knew she was forgetting someone) Um... "my boyfriend?!"
McP: LOL!!! So True!
McP: (re: Blake Shelton) This guy called me Darlin' when I met him after the concert here.
Ma: You so sick.
Ma: (re: Taylor Swift) What's with wearing one dress all night?
McP: she's young, we'll forgive her.
Ma: Just this once.
Ma: Maybe Underwear can give her a yard or two off that train. Like she would miss it.
McP: I bet she would, she's a good Christian girl. I'll ask her - after all, she is my sister wife (refering to her relationship with myhusband Mike Fisher)
Ma: She's makin all you compound dresses - and all the sister children.
McP: As long as those compound dresses look like the white one she's wearing now, I'm down.
McP: (re: her acceptance speech for Entertainer of the Year) "mike, baby, I wish you were here!" what about me??
Ma: Wrongo. The cup - oh wait. She's got the fisherman soon!

Hey, Spokane..

Ams lock up U.S. title with win in Kent

We're having a great time in Kent. So far, Kelly has biffed it out of the hotel shuttle, got to meet Calvin's superfan, got a quick tour of the Tbirds locker room (pretty sick, not gonna lie), and narrowly escaped seeing a naked man in the hall of the hotel. Oh yes, and lots of alcohol has been consumed.

Good times are being had by all... well, all Ams fans, that is.

UnClassy Spokane 2.0

After talking with MaMcP who got the lowdown on the happs after the cameras quit rolling from the billet bro, I now have a couple other things to say:

1. I heart Bob Tory's passion for the game and his team.
   
2. I effing can't stand Tokarski and would tell him exactly how classless and immature he comes off to his face in an effort to help the young man not be a douchebag.
3. Mitch Wahl can lick my proverbial left nut. You're an 18 year old young man, which means you're an ADULT. You are someone that young players from the States look up to as a member of Team USA. Take the high-road. Pointing at your Mem Cup ring as you're walking by the bus holding a fellow member of the 2008 Draft class who YOUR TEAMMATE attacked is immature and unnecessary.
   

As a fan, my rivalry with the Chiefs used to end once they stepped off the ice. I had a billet brother who became a CHief in a trade and enjoyed his time there. I appreciate the Chiefs organization for offering free tickets to my parents for every game TRI played up there one year after they had a HORRIBLE experience in the stands (they turned it down and have only been back on rooter busses since) AND for what a great show they put on in that arena. That rivalry has changed. As those kids represent that organization as leaders, I now will be adopting the motto of my fellow Maple Leaf Mafia member, Hammer, "Spokanistan. This is war."

We'll see what all the suspensions and fines end up being after last night. I'm sure the Ams will get whats coming to them as well, but REALLY,Spokane?! Really?! No need to goon it up OFF the ice, too.

Completely UN-Classy, Spokane.

In tonight's match up between the Tri-City Americans and the Spokane Chiefs at the Spokane Memorial Veterans Arena, things got a little out of hand. With the Ams clearly in the lead, goaltender Chet Pickard made a save on a Spokane shot and a clear 2+ second later, was hit in the head with an elbow by the Chiefs' Letts (commonly referred to by McBroInLaw as "that asshat monkey bitch"). This shot to the head ended the game for Chet, the Predator's first round pick from 2008. Letts got a 5 minute major and a game misconduct.

Now, I'm not saying that after this the Ams were angelic, but the game went downhill at 90mph after that. I don't have the energy to comment on everything we swore at in the basement at McMan's house, but I will say this:

1) I never thought I'd say this, but I want the screaming kids back - the new snowboarding, stoner, "song writing" neighbors that moved into the other half of McMan's duplex earlier this week are giving an impromtu concert in the basement tonight. Um, it's almost 11 - can we go unplugged? OMGsh - be careful what you wish for - they've busted out the effing bongos. Where's Matthew McConaughey?

2)You may or may not know that I'm not exactly a fan of Dustin Tokarski, but after tonight, that is an understatement. He could've taken the high road and stayed patiently in his crease toward the end of the game while Mitch McColm was being escorted to the locker room after having a "tender moment" with a Chief. Instead he skated to the blue line and beaked the known-fighter. Then, to beak the Ams as they're leaving the ice after the game? Pipe down, Tik. You were a little bit of a sieve tonight - it's all good, it's one game, every goalie has that night. You're already signed by the team that drafted you, skate off, go have a milkshake - hell, even a beer - and get over it. Tomorrow is another day.

For real. Bongos AND guitar now. Awesome. *rolls eyes*

ANYWAY - like I said to Tokarski, tomorrow is another day. We'll see what the league has to say about the suspension they should be handing to Mr. Letts, and we'll see if Chet is still seeing stars before the Ams face the Winterhawks at home tomorrow night. I know all the Ams fans are hoping McNephew was right when he was pacing in front of the TV saying, "My buddy Chet OK. My buddy Chet OK."

Another reason to Heart Carrie Underwear...

There to see her man (and myhusband), Mike Fisher play the greatest sport EVER and not to draw attention to herself, Carrie hits the floor faster than a fainting goat listening to that Tatiana Del Toro laugh (you know, crazy-bitch from American Idol season 8?).



If you listen hard enough I think you can hear her say, "Are those Air Bombay Loafers?!" (10 points for those who can name that flick.)

I hate bad news.

My birthdad called me tonight to let me know that one of my favorite crazy aunts had a massive stroke and heart attack today in the parking lot of a grocery store.

They're pulling the plug within the hour.

I'm so glad I went to see all three of those wonderful, beautiful sisters last fall in Yakima.

Tell me again why I'm watching Grey's Anatomy?

Dear 8 lb 6 oz Baby Jesus, Please give us beautiful babies!

HOLY HOTNESS, BATMAN!

+ = ♥?

Doing my daily reading of PerezHilton.com, I came across the little tidbit that my girlfriend2.0 (Carrie Underwear - close second to my Xtina) and my HusbandMikeFisher are allegedly a couple. If this is true, Never before has there been a celebrity/hockeyplayer relationship I have endorsed more or as whole-heartedly! And if it's not... Well, It should be!

People who know me know how much I love and respect Mike Fisher for not holding back his beliefs and his giving back to the community that's given him so much. They also know that I feel a kinship with the American Idol winner (and former Miss America Organization Contestant) - not to mention, I want to have her babies... wait, that's not right... but it's true - i could look at her for days - and listen to her sing longer.)

I'm sending the flying monkeys to check on this...

Jingle Sharks

Nothing better to lure Santa to Ma McP's house than a shirtless Joe Thornton singing Jingle Bells




Gotta love Ricci.. and the Euros - and Boucher pretending he's Nabby...

Hope everyone has a great Holiday :)

Buddy the Elf, What's your favorite color?!

x-posted to HLOG

Well, since there is a huge wind storm here and I can't sleep, I might as well be productive. Getting right down to business, my job today is to report to Santa and let him know who on the Sharkies (or around the league) has been naughty or nice and let him know what a few people need for Christmas.

Naughty list - as a perpetual optimist, I tend to look for the good in people, so this list is rather short.
*Rob Blake - Match penalty for spearing last night warrants a lump of coal in his stocking.
*Brett Festerling (ANA) - The potentially dangerous hit on JR last night. Two lumps of coal and a flaming bag of poo for a present. **Personal note: Brett, Brett, Brett... I'm really excited that you made it to the show (especially since you played in TRI for so long), but can you please refrain from breaking my favorite players? He's old enough to be your father - Respect your elders and don't hit them in the numbers.

Nice list -
*Devin Setoguchi, Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau - whatever they want, they should get. fer reals.
*Jonathan Cheechoo - a new upper body so that injury will go away.
*Dan Boyle - See suggestion for Seto, Joe and Patty
*Nabby and Boucher - See suggestion for Dan Boyle
*JR - scoring stats reminicent of his days in Chicago
*Vlasic - a jar of pickles... and some more goals - kid's doing better than all last season already this year. Keep it up!
*Jody Shelley - another crack at Parros
*Coach McLellan - Players who keep buying into his systems
*Little Joe Pavelski - More wins at the ping pong table
*Torrey Mitchel - A new leg
*Cavanagh, Clowe, Goc, Grier, Michalek, Plihal, Erhoff, Lukowich, Murray and Semenov - 6 more months of exactly what they have been doing.

In other words, Santa, without jinxing anything, my reccomendation is that you bring these guys something that starts with an "S" and ends with a "tanley Cup" You can deliver it via Bettman in approximately 6 months.

I heart XM Radio!!!

So I would have to say that my investment in XM Radio has paid for itself time and time again, but yesterday (on a particularly stressful day at work) it completely made my day.

Not being able to decide on a music station to listen to, I turned to trusty channel 204, NHL Home Ice. First thing I hear is that the next caller/guest they were going to be talking to on "NHL Live!" was Jumbo Joe Thornton. Didn't have a chance to jot down too many notes about what he said, but he was adorable... well, as adorable as a large, hairy, hockey player can be. No wonder I'm infatuated with him - he's a NERD! He confessed that he plays Risk online constantly - always starting with Ontario, of course. His thoughts on the new season are that 1) it's still young, they're not getting ahead of themselves, 2) they've addressed their issues and it's all about playing well in the new system and working well together, which he thinks they're doing well.

A little later in the afternoon on "In the Slot," they completed the trifecta of McP's favorite power forwards - Jeremy Roenick and Todd Bertuzzi. I was emitting squee from my freaking pores.

JR –
He called Brian Boucher their “shut out king.” HA!!!!!! I for real LOL'd

On new coach, Todd McClellan – He's implemented a good system and he's all business, no foolin' around. The system is more like Detroit – which we all know works extremely well… high paced, center-driven shooting mentality. The guys accepting and enjoying it. He's excited for the game tonight against Detroit.

About his age and the late stage of his career: He's having so much fun even though ice time dropped. As much as he didn't know if he would, he enjoys being the roll player, setting an example for the younger kids by working hard – plus, he admitted, he's getting older, only so much a body can take, but it’s a great feeling. Pavelski, Setoguchi and Mitchell coming to him for advice gives him as much satisfaction as making the big hit or scoring the big goal because he sees that people still admire him and see his hard work. Papa JR even has the young guys over for dinner once or twice a week to make sure they’re being fed well.

On ending his career with the Sharkies: His buddy "Dougie" Wilson stepped up to the plate when he was looking for a place to go and he is very grateful for the opportunity afforded him. Roenick is happy to be ending his career with his head held high and with a team as classy as SJ.

On why Hockey players are so loved by their fans: There is no question in his mind that the egos and the personalities are far and away more likable and respectful in hockey in general than any other sport. If an NBA player was asked, "Who’s the best player in the league?" Jeremy says the only answer you'd get would be, "I am!" As a hockey player the same question, it's not gonna happen. Hockey players have a respect for the media and that the NHL has a nice clean slate (compared to other sports). The players are approachable and that not only makes them more likable, but more fun to watch.

Rossi and Espo didn’t want to jinx it, but they “have a feeling about the Sharks this year"….. if you’re pickin’ up what I’m puttin’ down...

Then there was *drumroll please* Todd "Toddball" Bertuzzi!!! My squee cup runneth over!!!

Why did he pick #7 when he got to Calgary? Funny they should ask him that, as Espo was the inspiration. He came up with it with some buddies over some beers.

How does he like playing LW? He Played RW majority of time he was in Van but when he was in Anaheim, he had a little eye trouble with left eye (fluid) and asked to be moved to LW so he could see the ice better... Makes perfect sense. Plus, he doesn't think he couldn't bump Iggy out of the RW position if he tried. As long as he's skating and moving the puck, he'll play anything.

Speaking of, how is it playing with Iginla? He's never met a more competitive human being in his entire life.

What about Andre Roy? "He's a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful man." Andre sits behind him on the plane - it's like own little commentator behind him.

Why Calgary? Spoke to Jerome a bit, and talked to Mike Keenan. He feels he also needed to get back into a hockey market. With no disrespect to Florida or Anaheim, he just felt he needed the pressure that he was being counted on.

When he was a Canuck, he was playing at around 250-245 pounds. He's now 225… skinny Todd! "Kids are too fast now, had to lose it to keep up!"

Todd enjoys passing – would rather have an assist rather than a goal. (To which Espo froke out - "You were born in Sudbury, not New York!") His goal is to get back to 4-6 quality shots a game to get back to 25-40 goal range.

Espo then brought up the little nugget of laughter he'd been talking about the day before - Interviewing Todd after the draft, the price tag was still attached to his brand new suit. A Buddy told him to leave it on. Hockey players... It's all about the buddies.

So after that interview ended, I was able to get back to work... I can neither confirm nor deny that I had a couple voicemails to answer.

Cutest, Fluffiest Sharks fan... a report by the flying monkeys

This is Eddie. He's 10 weeks old, loves watching the Sharks and enjoys working on his goalie moves, giving himself baths and long naps next to the Mazel Tov picture frame on the piano.

His natural goalie talent came out at a young age. From the day after McPhizzle adopted him, he'd play with his track ball, stopping it and covering it. Auntie VonHammer was one of the first to notice - and the first to ref him. He covered the ball for two long, prompting her to call him for delay of game.

Full Name: Edouard "Eddie" Vesa Thornton McPhizzle
Favorite Food: Science Diet Liver and Chicken
Favorite Drink: Water or Organic Lactose Free Milk
Favorite Toy: Trackball Scratcher or toilet paper tubes
First Word: Meow
Favorite Sharks: Jumbo Joe and JR
Favorite Goalie Style: A little butterfly, a little pad stack...
Favorite Place to sleep: McP's keyboard or face... we're working on both of those.
Favorite TV show: Sharks hockey, Private Practice
Favorite Naughty Moment: Knocking the collage frame of Agnes down on the piano.
Favorite lap to sit in: McP... Take that, McMan!