Friday, July 30, 2010
Round 2 done... FINALLY!
Okay, friends! Drum roll... I just completed round 2 of the HCG diet! I have lost 40 lbs. total. That is where the good news ends. This 2nd time around was in a word, HELL! I was miserable! I am so glad I am done! I did lose 10 additional lbs., but it was not easy. The 1st time was a breeze: no real hunger, no real desire to cheat/eat, no fatigue, the lbs. just seemed to melt off... but not this time! I was constantly fighting the urge to cheat, hunger was always gnawing at me, I definitely was tired and the worst side effect for me was light headedness. What a horrible feeling! Now, I powered thru. I did lose, but it didn't come off as I hoped it would. BUT, I am just 20 lbs. away from my ultimate will-honestly-be-happy-with-my-appearance goal, so this is really a great jump start! I would recommend to whoever is interested in just doing the diet once. It's not worth putting yourself thru that twice. Maybe to some 10 lbs. would be worth it, but honestly, it wasn't easy! Maybe it was more mental that physical, but I am beat. Perhaps, looking back, it was worth it, but trust me, if one stuck to a "regular" diet, one could lose the same amount of weight in about the same time. I do feel good tho, and have really gotten a lot of compliments. That is rewarding! Now to keep the ball rolling. I will continue to keep you posted!
Friday, July 23, 2010
It's getting closer... and boy! am I Ready!
From foxsports.com: NFL pre-camp power rankings by Adrian Hasenmayer
Hey, football fans: Take a big hulking swig of happy juice – NFL training camps are upon us!
No more half-pint diva actors pretending to be shot down with sniper fire in that OTHER football (see: Cup, World). Forget about any sports where the players are so much bigger and egotistical than the teams, that they can form their own (that means you, Miami Thrice).
It’s time for America’s passion to come back as the biggest, baddest dudes around knock each other silly just to make their own teams.
But safety first: Put on your cups, toss in your mouth guards and button your chinstraps. Here’s where we stand entering our camp odyssey, 2010 style.
1. Saints (13-3) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Saints hoped to hit the off season and hit up some defenders to widen Drew Brees' margin for error. Mission accomplished via free agency (added DEs Alex Brown and Jimmy Wilkerson) and the draft (first-round pick CB Patrick Robinson). Keeping Darren Sharper in the mix solidifies their No. 1 ranking, as does that Lombardi Trophy they haven’t stopped flaunting.
I'm still not convinced. In my opinion, Saints D is their weakness. I don't see them repeating in the Super Bowl this year.
2. Colts (14-2) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Indy has followed Bill Polian’s post-Super Bowl pledge to beef up the O-line, but will Peyton Manning actually run the ball or just audible to a pass on every down like it seems every year? Concerns aside, the Colts are still the class of the AFC – even if Reggie Wayne holds out until mid-late August.
Um, Peyton doesn't run. But that isn't their problem. They need to stay healthy. If so, they will be tough to beat.
3. Vikings (12-4) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: You can make the case that the Vikings should have been the NFC champs, if not for a beaten-down brainfart by the King of Wranglers in New Orleans. Still, the Vikings are as close to a complete team in the business. If/when Favre comes back (probably in time to play in Minnesota’s third preseason game), then the Vikes may be the NFC's Super Bowl favorites.
*groan* Here we go again... let the Brett Favre manipulative circus begin! What a chump! I can't even have a reasonable conversation about the Vikes with him at the helm. Clearly, he showed his "leadership" and his "poise" and his "experience" in the NFC championship last season. Let's do it again! Did I not say they won't make it to the Super Bowl with him in charge last year?! I will admit, if he's gone, who becomes my new "pony to whip"?
4. Jets (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The new Jets are brash and bold in every way, and they show with every offseason move. The draft was no different, as the Jets supplemented their draft haul by cutting guard Alan Faneca and trading RB Leon Washington to the Seahawks. Replacing Faneca is New York's second-round pick, OL Vladimir Ducasse (which sounds more like a cello player than a lineman). The Jets dealt Washington once they traded up to grab USC star Joe McKnight in the fourth round. And adding first-round CB Kyle Wilson to Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie could be deadly for opposing QBs.
I underrated the Jets all season last year. They came up short, but maybe they've corrected some errors for this year? We'll see if last year was a fluke or not.
5. Ravens (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With offseason additions Anquan Boldin and Donte’ Stallworth, the Ravens are being talked about as legitimate Lombardi trophy contenders. That’ great and all, and Joe Flacco may be bragging to everyone this summer how great they will be. But until Ed Reed returns from the PUP list in proper working condition, we’ll hold back a tad on the Ravens. But just a tad. If Reed returns as good as new, this is your sleeper Super Bowl team.
I liked the Raven till about mid-season last year. Then they just imploded. I agree with the Super Bowl Sleeper, if they can maintain last years 1st half of season momentum all of this year.
6. Cowboys (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: This has been a shockingly silent offseason in Dallas considering expectations entering one without a salary cap. But maverick owner Jerry Jones just couldn't help himself in the draft once enticing WR Dez Bryant starting slipping in the first round. In Bryant, Dallas added a major weapon. But at what expense? Dallas did not address their OT hole left by Flozell "The Hotel" Adams, instead hoping Doug Free can hold down the spot for a full season. Tony Romo sure hopes he can.
And, ladies and gentlemen, here's your most overrated team for the umteenth year in a row! One thing Jerry Jones is good at is looking good. But where's the substance? Where's the teamwork? He compiles all of these all-stars, but can they play together? NO! That has been the case for at least a decade now.
7. Packers (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The happiest Packer on draft weekend was QB Aaron Rodgers, who likely chest-bumped someone after Green Bay grabbed stud OT Bryan Bulaga in the first round. But some Cheeseheads are worried that Ted Thompson ignored the void at LB made by Aaron Kampman's free-agency defection, in addition to the aging cornerback corps. Now with the D-line taking a hit from Johnny Jolly’s suspension, too many questions remain for a team that otherwise should be in the NFC mix to play on Super Sunday.
I like Aaron Rodgers. But I don't think he's Super Bowl ready, yet.
8. Chargers (13-3) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Not many 13-3 teams have transition years. Yet here are the Chargers, post L.T., Antonio Cromartie and Jamal Williams. But they like their subs, first-round RB Ryan Mathews (the NCAA leader in rush yards/game in 2009), free-agent pickup Nathan Vasher and fifth-round space-eating DT Cam Thomas. GM A.J. Smith may need sensitivity training, but he can scout and draft with anyone. The question in camp is whether or not his pride is getting the best in him as he stands off with probable holdouts Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeill.
Chargers have been thisclose for a few years now. They lost their window, tho. That and they still have hot head Philip Rivers. Not good. They be good, but not that good.
9. Bengals (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: In the draft, many were stunned that the Bengals didn't leap all over troubled, yet talented WR Dez Bryant late in his first-round slide. But that's mainly because Cincy had already signed free-agent former problem child Antonio Bryant. Instead the Bengals focused on giving QB Carson Palmer a nice pass option at tight end by snatching Jermaine Gresham, then adding two other WRs in the third and sixth rounds. Is it enough? Only if Cedric Benson can follow up his solid 2009 season on the ground.
One of the most troubles teams in the NFL, on and off the field. Too much drama for this team to focus on the ultimate prize.
10. Pats (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The big cloud in New England remains an under-reported cold war between Tom Brady and the organization, specifically with his lack of a contract extension. Mr. Bundchen took a discount to help his homies in his previous deal, but the buzz is that Brady may not be willing to do it again. If anyone can shut this out and keep personal issues away from the field, it’s Tom Terrific. Good news for the Pats too that the amazing Wes Welker should be ready to rock full-time at camp months ahead of rehab schedule for his busted knee.
Tom had a bad year last year... needs to prove he's %100 this year to deserve that extension in my opinion. Pats are always tough, like it or not, with Brilliant Bill leading the way.
11. Falcons (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With most of the offense set, Atlanta focused on defense in the draft – zeroing in on a big need by grabbing tackling machine Sean Weatherspoon at linebacker in the first round. The Falcons hope he becomes the heir apparent to Mike Peterson. Still, can this pass rush get to the QB, or will they be rocking the "matador" defense in 2010? Say it with me, "Ole!"
Ole!!!
12. Texans (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Offensive lineman Eric Winston reportedly described Houston’s new philosophy for 2010 by admitting that the team ended every minicamp workout with a chant for the Super Bowl. Even though the franchise has never made the playoffs and only earned their first winning season in team history by winning their last four games of 2009, the Texans are thinking playoffs and beyond for 2010. If the running game can be revived, count on it.
Huh, we'll see 'bout that!
13. Eagles (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: You may think they are rebuilding, but talk to anyone associated to the team and 100% will respond with how much they all believe in their new young QB Kevin Kolb. Many thought he was ready for full-time action last season, and some whisper that he could be a better fit in Andy Reid’s offense than Donovan McNabb himself. Words are great and all, but the true reveal begins at camp.
This is a rebuilding year! There aren't very many veterans left in the Eagle starting line up! Perhaps this was a needed move as their previous cast couldn't muster a Super Bowl win. But, to think they could go all the way this year... it's highly unlikely.
14. Steelers (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Maurkice Pouncey is the latest Steeler involved with a controversy as the NCAA reportedly is breathing down his big neck. Whatever – from Big Ben to Santonio Holmes and on and on, controversies fill newspaper and online quotas. Getting to training camp will be cathartic for Pittsburgh players and coaches (including the newly-extended head honcho Mike Tomlin).
Have the Steelers learned anything from their post-season transgressions this year? We shall see come this new year. I am a strong believer that a true sportsman displays his talents and humility on and off the field. While many of these players are talented, their personal lives reflect that of spoiled brats who think they deserve what's coming to them. Earn your good reputations back and then we'll talk Super Bowl!
15. Titans (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Out with the old (former Titans DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, who signed with Detroit this offseason, in with the new (first-round pick Derrick Morgan). The Titans are psyched about the future defensive captain Morgan falling into their laps at No. 16 in the draft, one in which they also rid themselves of headache RB LenDale White. With a full season of VY and a happier CJY2K, the Titans should be AOK.
Here's hoping: I have like these underdogs for a few years now... let's see some results!
16. Dolphins (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Aside from the upcoming camp sideshow with Brandon Marshall and South Beach a scary proposition, defense is the big focus in Miami. The Dolphins went defense with seven of the their first eight picks, and they expect big things right away from early-round picks Jared Odrick and Koa Misi. Too often in 2009, the Dolphins could not get off the field or get the big stop. Let's see if these guys can help put an end to that.
Sorry, but when J-Lo and Fergie partly own you, I can't take anything you do seriously! I'm just waiting for the "Lady Lumps" or "Waiting for Tonight" victory celebrations for the 2 touchdowns these clowns will get this year!
17. Redskins (4-12) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: From trading for new QB Donovan McNabb plus OT Jammal Brown and drafting huge tackle Trent Williams, the Redskins have made a serious offseason move. Can this get them out of the cellar in the NFC East? Why not. This team, QB, coach, GM and owner are all motivated beyond belief … well, maybe except Albert Haynesworth.
Donovan in a Redskins uniform?! That will be interesting to see. I really liked Jim Zorn and will be sad to not see him on the sidelines with them this year. He had a lot of issues to work with. I think the the Redskins had given him some time, we may have seen some positive things.
18. 49ers (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Niners wanted to get tougher this offseason per Mike Singletary, so why not add 650 pounds of first-round beef in the draft? The 49ers wanted No. 11 overall pick Anthony Davis so badly that they traded up two spots to get him, then were excited that guard Mike Iupati was there at No. 17. With RB Frank Gore healthy, WR Michael Crabtree about to go through his first full training camp and a fast defense, the Niners seem poised to leapfrog the Cardinals in the NFC West.
Woo! I like this Mike Singletary! He is really trying to turn this organization around! A few more years to get some experience under their belts and my '9ers will be a team to content with for sure!
19. Cardinals (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Well, maybe Ken Whisenhunt ain't bluffing on Matt Leinart starting in Arizona. Coach Whiz and GM Rod Graves did grab a QB in the fifth round (Fordham's John Skelton), but he's a project. It's Leinart's job to lose. Here’s the thing: Arizona also lost several leaders other than Warner – Anquan Boldin, Antrelle Rolle, Karlos Dansby, etc. While the Cards should still compete with a more-balanced offense, that’s too many studs to lose in one offseason.
With Warner retired, Boldin gone, Dansby out of the picture... Cardinals will take their rightful place as winner-wannabe's.
20. Broncos (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Wow, Tim Freaking Tebow. That must have been some 15 minutes of an NFL Combine meeting. That's all it took for McDaniels to be willing to share his Krabby Patty recipe with Tebow, reworked delivery and all. But don't forget the coach's move a few picks earlier in the first round, picking WR Demaryius Thomas instead of Dez Bryant. McDaniels says the pick was purely football-related. RIIIIIIIIIIGHT. By getting rid of Brandon Marshall one winter after dealing away Jay Cutler, this season may make or break McDaniels in Denver.
I used to be a Broncos fan... have I ever told that story? Well, with Tim Tebow, I may have to start liking them again. Now, be patient Broncos fans. Give McDaniels and Tebow a few years to work out some kinks and find their rhthym. Not every rookie QB has a Roethlisberger year.
21. Bears (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With Peppers hopefully sufficiently motivated, Brian Urlacher healthy and Jay Cutler trying to do his Kurt Warner impression under Mike Martz, the Bears are hoping for a big playoff push in 2010. The biggest key may be RB Matt Forte getting help with Chester Taylor signed to give him a hand in carrying the ball.
Big plus: Urlacher is back! Big minus: so is Cutler. Good luck with that!
22. Giants (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Will the Giants trade Osi Umenyiora? Maybe, maybe not. This team loves lotsa D-linemen. Even after the Giants took DE Jason Pierre-Paul with their top pick at No. 15, GM Jerry Reese denied unequivocably that Osi will be dealt. Regardless, there's a case for keeping everyone to help the rebuilt secondary, which hopes for a healthy Kenny Phillips and free-agent add Antrelle Rolle to stop the bleeding from last season’s defensive embarrassment.
What happened to the Giants?! Will this year be redemption for the Giants D? I'm not sure, yet. But the whole team fell apart. Maybe not everything is handed to you on a silver spoon.
23. Panthers (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Panthers can run the ball all day long with the duo of DeAngelo Williams and Johnathan Stewart. But that may be all they can do well. Steve Smith is still stranded on “Double-Coverage Island” and Julius Peppers is counting his dead Presidents in Chicago. While I love teams that like to run the rock, Carolina seems a few playmakers shy of contending.
A has-been team. For now.
24. Jaguars (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: All four of those Jags fans out there must not have any fingernails left to chew on with all the pressure building in the Jacksonville Jaguars office building. Both coach Jack Del Rio and quarterback David Garrard are facing “Win or else” seasons. Other than fantasy superhero Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jags are headed right off a cliff.
Who likes cliff-diving?!
25. Chiefs (4-12) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Chiefs still can't rush the passer a lick, but added three pieces of dynamite to their young roster in the draft with safety Eric Berry (No. 5 pick), elusive and versatile RB/WR Dexter McCluster and the best return man in the draft with Javier Arenas (seven punt return TDs in 2009) at No. 50 overall. Scott Pioli also scored a huge coup with adding Thomas Jones (1,402 rushing yards in 2009 … Boy, he’s washed up, right?). With Matt Cassel throwing to Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers, the Chiefs could surprise.
An admittedly young team, we may see some sparks this year, but nothing too threatening yet.
26. Seahawks (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: New head coach Pete Carroll has landed nicely with a rebuilding program in the NFL’s worst division – kinda like the USC team he joined back in the day that eventually dominated the Pac-10. Watch out for the Seahawks, who could contend in the NFC West as long as QB Matt Hasselbeck is upright. A strong draft and new energy should make the Seahawks a much tougher out in 2010.
Mike Holmgren gone... Pete Carroll is yet another college genious coach turned NFL folly coach? Too soon to say, but history is not in his favor. It is the Seagulls we're talking here.
27. Browns (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: New Browns czar Mike Holmgren had a big dilemma entering the draft – pick a QB at No. 7 or help an alarmingly horrendous secondary. When the draft dust settled, he got both. Who knew Texas star Colt McCoy would last until the third round? That just helps justify the correct decision to attack the back end of the defense, picking the best CB in the draft at No. 7, Joe Haden. Heading into camp, Cleveland is calling Panthers washout Jake Delhomme the QB of the present until McCoy is ready.
Some interesting additions to this team this year. They had a few highlights last year, so perhaps they are on the right path. Time will tell.
28. Raiders (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: How 'bout them Raiders? Give it up for Weird Al, as Oakland had its best offseason in years. Finally the QB position is not a running joke, with solid player and teammate Jason Campbell traded from Washington to stabilize the purple drank mess left by JaMarcus Russell. That in itself should help the Raiders compete for .500 this season.
Ha! Raiders need to clean house, starting with management to even be considered a .500 team. But ridding themselves of Russell is a good start.
29. Bills (6-10) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: OK, so where is the franchise QB in Buffalo? Trent Edwards? Ryan Fitzpatrick? Brian Brohm? Jim Kelly? Instead of going for a QB in the draft, the Bills worked on their running game with Mr. Electric C.J. Spiller – who's really a multi-purpose threat who is a highlight waiting to happen. That's wonderful and everything, but with no qualified blocker for him Spiller could have issues with running room.
Bills are like the kid in high school that everyone liked, but when it came to picking him for sports or asking him to the dance, he was always overlooked. Maybe next time, Bills.
30. Bucs (3-13) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Bucs have been looking for the next Warren Sapp for years. So this draft, they spent their first two picks on stellar DTs, figuring two guys could hopefully add up to one Warren. They chose wisely, getting no-brainer pick Gerald McCoy at No. 3 overall and UCLA's Brian Price at No. 35. The NFL's worst run defense just took a big step forward. This should give second-year QB Josh Freeman some hope of pulling a few upsets this season.
Maybe a 4-12 season, then? Not too optimistic about these guys.
31. Lions (2-14) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Lions could have left New York City after making the second pick in the draft, DT Ndamukong Suh. That's how good he is. The rest is just gravy in the long road back to respectability in Detroit. But that day is coming sooner rather than later as the Lions are slowly getting there.
*snicker* The Lions are still playing?! Professionally? Well, folks, here's your "over in ring 3 circus" team for the season.
32. Rams (1-15) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Sam Bradford will count his cash and his lumps all season long. The Rams are far from contending any time soon.
Rams could've had a lot going for them, ownership wise, but they got way too political during the off-season. Rams have what's coming to them this year: FAILURE.
Hey, football fans: Take a big hulking swig of happy juice – NFL training camps are upon us!
No more half-pint diva actors pretending to be shot down with sniper fire in that OTHER football (see: Cup, World). Forget about any sports where the players are so much bigger and egotistical than the teams, that they can form their own (that means you, Miami Thrice).
It’s time for America’s passion to come back as the biggest, baddest dudes around knock each other silly just to make their own teams.
But safety first: Put on your cups, toss in your mouth guards and button your chinstraps. Here’s where we stand entering our camp odyssey, 2010 style.
1. Saints (13-3) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Saints hoped to hit the off season and hit up some defenders to widen Drew Brees' margin for error. Mission accomplished via free agency (added DEs Alex Brown and Jimmy Wilkerson) and the draft (first-round pick CB Patrick Robinson). Keeping Darren Sharper in the mix solidifies their No. 1 ranking, as does that Lombardi Trophy they haven’t stopped flaunting.
I'm still not convinced. In my opinion, Saints D is their weakness. I don't see them repeating in the Super Bowl this year.
2. Colts (14-2) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Indy has followed Bill Polian’s post-Super Bowl pledge to beef up the O-line, but will Peyton Manning actually run the ball or just audible to a pass on every down like it seems every year? Concerns aside, the Colts are still the class of the AFC – even if Reggie Wayne holds out until mid-late August.
Um, Peyton doesn't run. But that isn't their problem. They need to stay healthy. If so, they will be tough to beat.
3. Vikings (12-4) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: You can make the case that the Vikings should have been the NFC champs, if not for a beaten-down brainfart by the King of Wranglers in New Orleans. Still, the Vikings are as close to a complete team in the business. If/when Favre comes back (probably in time to play in Minnesota’s third preseason game), then the Vikes may be the NFC's Super Bowl favorites.
*groan* Here we go again... let the Brett Favre manipulative circus begin! What a chump! I can't even have a reasonable conversation about the Vikes with him at the helm. Clearly, he showed his "leadership" and his "poise" and his "experience" in the NFC championship last season. Let's do it again! Did I not say they won't make it to the Super Bowl with him in charge last year?! I will admit, if he's gone, who becomes my new "pony to whip"?
4. Jets (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The new Jets are brash and bold in every way, and they show with every offseason move. The draft was no different, as the Jets supplemented their draft haul by cutting guard Alan Faneca and trading RB Leon Washington to the Seahawks. Replacing Faneca is New York's second-round pick, OL Vladimir Ducasse (which sounds more like a cello player than a lineman). The Jets dealt Washington once they traded up to grab USC star Joe McKnight in the fourth round. And adding first-round CB Kyle Wilson to Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie could be deadly for opposing QBs.
I underrated the Jets all season last year. They came up short, but maybe they've corrected some errors for this year? We'll see if last year was a fluke or not.
5. Ravens (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With offseason additions Anquan Boldin and Donte’ Stallworth, the Ravens are being talked about as legitimate Lombardi trophy contenders. That’ great and all, and Joe Flacco may be bragging to everyone this summer how great they will be. But until Ed Reed returns from the PUP list in proper working condition, we’ll hold back a tad on the Ravens. But just a tad. If Reed returns as good as new, this is your sleeper Super Bowl team.
I liked the Raven till about mid-season last year. Then they just imploded. I agree with the Super Bowl Sleeper, if they can maintain last years 1st half of season momentum all of this year.
6. Cowboys (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: This has been a shockingly silent offseason in Dallas considering expectations entering one without a salary cap. But maverick owner Jerry Jones just couldn't help himself in the draft once enticing WR Dez Bryant starting slipping in the first round. In Bryant, Dallas added a major weapon. But at what expense? Dallas did not address their OT hole left by Flozell "The Hotel" Adams, instead hoping Doug Free can hold down the spot for a full season. Tony Romo sure hopes he can.
And, ladies and gentlemen, here's your most overrated team for the umteenth year in a row! One thing Jerry Jones is good at is looking good. But where's the substance? Where's the teamwork? He compiles all of these all-stars, but can they play together? NO! That has been the case for at least a decade now.
7. Packers (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The happiest Packer on draft weekend was QB Aaron Rodgers, who likely chest-bumped someone after Green Bay grabbed stud OT Bryan Bulaga in the first round. But some Cheeseheads are worried that Ted Thompson ignored the void at LB made by Aaron Kampman's free-agency defection, in addition to the aging cornerback corps. Now with the D-line taking a hit from Johnny Jolly’s suspension, too many questions remain for a team that otherwise should be in the NFC mix to play on Super Sunday.
I like Aaron Rodgers. But I don't think he's Super Bowl ready, yet.
8. Chargers (13-3) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Not many 13-3 teams have transition years. Yet here are the Chargers, post L.T., Antonio Cromartie and Jamal Williams. But they like their subs, first-round RB Ryan Mathews (the NCAA leader in rush yards/game in 2009), free-agent pickup Nathan Vasher and fifth-round space-eating DT Cam Thomas. GM A.J. Smith may need sensitivity training, but he can scout and draft with anyone. The question in camp is whether or not his pride is getting the best in him as he stands off with probable holdouts Vincent Jackson and Marcus McNeill.
Chargers have been thisclose for a few years now. They lost their window, tho. That and they still have hot head Philip Rivers. Not good. They be good, but not that good.
9. Bengals (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: In the draft, many were stunned that the Bengals didn't leap all over troubled, yet talented WR Dez Bryant late in his first-round slide. But that's mainly because Cincy had already signed free-agent former problem child Antonio Bryant. Instead the Bengals focused on giving QB Carson Palmer a nice pass option at tight end by snatching Jermaine Gresham, then adding two other WRs in the third and sixth rounds. Is it enough? Only if Cedric Benson can follow up his solid 2009 season on the ground.
One of the most troubles teams in the NFL, on and off the field. Too much drama for this team to focus on the ultimate prize.
10. Pats (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The big cloud in New England remains an under-reported cold war between Tom Brady and the organization, specifically with his lack of a contract extension. Mr. Bundchen took a discount to help his homies in his previous deal, but the buzz is that Brady may not be willing to do it again. If anyone can shut this out and keep personal issues away from the field, it’s Tom Terrific. Good news for the Pats too that the amazing Wes Welker should be ready to rock full-time at camp months ahead of rehab schedule for his busted knee.
Tom had a bad year last year... needs to prove he's %100 this year to deserve that extension in my opinion. Pats are always tough, like it or not, with Brilliant Bill leading the way.
11. Falcons (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With most of the offense set, Atlanta focused on defense in the draft – zeroing in on a big need by grabbing tackling machine Sean Weatherspoon at linebacker in the first round. The Falcons hope he becomes the heir apparent to Mike Peterson. Still, can this pass rush get to the QB, or will they be rocking the "matador" defense in 2010? Say it with me, "Ole!"
Ole!!!
12. Texans (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Offensive lineman Eric Winston reportedly described Houston’s new philosophy for 2010 by admitting that the team ended every minicamp workout with a chant for the Super Bowl. Even though the franchise has never made the playoffs and only earned their first winning season in team history by winning their last four games of 2009, the Texans are thinking playoffs and beyond for 2010. If the running game can be revived, count on it.
Huh, we'll see 'bout that!
13. Eagles (11-5) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: You may think they are rebuilding, but talk to anyone associated to the team and 100% will respond with how much they all believe in their new young QB Kevin Kolb. Many thought he was ready for full-time action last season, and some whisper that he could be a better fit in Andy Reid’s offense than Donovan McNabb himself. Words are great and all, but the true reveal begins at camp.
This is a rebuilding year! There aren't very many veterans left in the Eagle starting line up! Perhaps this was a needed move as their previous cast couldn't muster a Super Bowl win. But, to think they could go all the way this year... it's highly unlikely.
14. Steelers (9-7) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Maurkice Pouncey is the latest Steeler involved with a controversy as the NCAA reportedly is breathing down his big neck. Whatever – from Big Ben to Santonio Holmes and on and on, controversies fill newspaper and online quotas. Getting to training camp will be cathartic for Pittsburgh players and coaches (including the newly-extended head honcho Mike Tomlin).
Have the Steelers learned anything from their post-season transgressions this year? We shall see come this new year. I am a strong believer that a true sportsman displays his talents and humility on and off the field. While many of these players are talented, their personal lives reflect that of spoiled brats who think they deserve what's coming to them. Earn your good reputations back and then we'll talk Super Bowl!
15. Titans (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Out with the old (former Titans DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, who signed with Detroit this offseason, in with the new (first-round pick Derrick Morgan). The Titans are psyched about the future defensive captain Morgan falling into their laps at No. 16 in the draft, one in which they also rid themselves of headache RB LenDale White. With a full season of VY and a happier CJY2K, the Titans should be AOK.
Here's hoping: I have like these underdogs for a few years now... let's see some results!
16. Dolphins (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Aside from the upcoming camp sideshow with Brandon Marshall and South Beach a scary proposition, defense is the big focus in Miami. The Dolphins went defense with seven of the their first eight picks, and they expect big things right away from early-round picks Jared Odrick and Koa Misi. Too often in 2009, the Dolphins could not get off the field or get the big stop. Let's see if these guys can help put an end to that.
Sorry, but when J-Lo and Fergie partly own you, I can't take anything you do seriously! I'm just waiting for the "Lady Lumps" or "Waiting for Tonight" victory celebrations for the 2 touchdowns these clowns will get this year!
17. Redskins (4-12) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: From trading for new QB Donovan McNabb plus OT Jammal Brown and drafting huge tackle Trent Williams, the Redskins have made a serious offseason move. Can this get them out of the cellar in the NFC East? Why not. This team, QB, coach, GM and owner are all motivated beyond belief … well, maybe except Albert Haynesworth.
Donovan in a Redskins uniform?! That will be interesting to see. I really liked Jim Zorn and will be sad to not see him on the sidelines with them this year. He had a lot of issues to work with. I think the the Redskins had given him some time, we may have seen some positive things.
18. 49ers (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Niners wanted to get tougher this offseason per Mike Singletary, so why not add 650 pounds of first-round beef in the draft? The 49ers wanted No. 11 overall pick Anthony Davis so badly that they traded up two spots to get him, then were excited that guard Mike Iupati was there at No. 17. With RB Frank Gore healthy, WR Michael Crabtree about to go through his first full training camp and a fast defense, the Niners seem poised to leapfrog the Cardinals in the NFC West.
Woo! I like this Mike Singletary! He is really trying to turn this organization around! A few more years to get some experience under their belts and my '9ers will be a team to content with for sure!
19. Cardinals (10-6) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Well, maybe Ken Whisenhunt ain't bluffing on Matt Leinart starting in Arizona. Coach Whiz and GM Rod Graves did grab a QB in the fifth round (Fordham's John Skelton), but he's a project. It's Leinart's job to lose. Here’s the thing: Arizona also lost several leaders other than Warner – Anquan Boldin, Antrelle Rolle, Karlos Dansby, etc. While the Cards should still compete with a more-balanced offense, that’s too many studs to lose in one offseason.
With Warner retired, Boldin gone, Dansby out of the picture... Cardinals will take their rightful place as winner-wannabe's.
20. Broncos (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Wow, Tim Freaking Tebow. That must have been some 15 minutes of an NFL Combine meeting. That's all it took for McDaniels to be willing to share his Krabby Patty recipe with Tebow, reworked delivery and all. But don't forget the coach's move a few picks earlier in the first round, picking WR Demaryius Thomas instead of Dez Bryant. McDaniels says the pick was purely football-related. RIIIIIIIIIIGHT. By getting rid of Brandon Marshall one winter after dealing away Jay Cutler, this season may make or break McDaniels in Denver.
I used to be a Broncos fan... have I ever told that story? Well, with Tim Tebow, I may have to start liking them again. Now, be patient Broncos fans. Give McDaniels and Tebow a few years to work out some kinks and find their rhthym. Not every rookie QB has a Roethlisberger year.
21. Bears (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: With Peppers hopefully sufficiently motivated, Brian Urlacher healthy and Jay Cutler trying to do his Kurt Warner impression under Mike Martz, the Bears are hoping for a big playoff push in 2010. The biggest key may be RB Matt Forte getting help with Chester Taylor signed to give him a hand in carrying the ball.
Big plus: Urlacher is back! Big minus: so is Cutler. Good luck with that!
22. Giants (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Will the Giants trade Osi Umenyiora? Maybe, maybe not. This team loves lotsa D-linemen. Even after the Giants took DE Jason Pierre-Paul with their top pick at No. 15, GM Jerry Reese denied unequivocably that Osi will be dealt. Regardless, there's a case for keeping everyone to help the rebuilt secondary, which hopes for a healthy Kenny Phillips and free-agent add Antrelle Rolle to stop the bleeding from last season’s defensive embarrassment.
What happened to the Giants?! Will this year be redemption for the Giants D? I'm not sure, yet. But the whole team fell apart. Maybe not everything is handed to you on a silver spoon.
23. Panthers (8-8) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Panthers can run the ball all day long with the duo of DeAngelo Williams and Johnathan Stewart. But that may be all they can do well. Steve Smith is still stranded on “Double-Coverage Island” and Julius Peppers is counting his dead Presidents in Chicago. While I love teams that like to run the rock, Carolina seems a few playmakers shy of contending.
A has-been team. For now.
24. Jaguars (7-9) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: All four of those Jags fans out there must not have any fingernails left to chew on with all the pressure building in the Jacksonville Jaguars office building. Both coach Jack Del Rio and quarterback David Garrard are facing “Win or else” seasons. Other than fantasy superhero Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jags are headed right off a cliff.
Who likes cliff-diving?!
25. Chiefs (4-12) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Chiefs still can't rush the passer a lick, but added three pieces of dynamite to their young roster in the draft with safety Eric Berry (No. 5 pick), elusive and versatile RB/WR Dexter McCluster and the best return man in the draft with Javier Arenas (seven punt return TDs in 2009) at No. 50 overall. Scott Pioli also scored a huge coup with adding Thomas Jones (1,402 rushing yards in 2009 … Boy, he’s washed up, right?). With Matt Cassel throwing to Dwayne Bowe and Chris Chambers, the Chiefs could surprise.
An admittedly young team, we may see some sparks this year, but nothing too threatening yet.
26. Seahawks (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: New head coach Pete Carroll has landed nicely with a rebuilding program in the NFL’s worst division – kinda like the USC team he joined back in the day that eventually dominated the Pac-10. Watch out for the Seahawks, who could contend in the NFC West as long as QB Matt Hasselbeck is upright. A strong draft and new energy should make the Seahawks a much tougher out in 2010.
Mike Holmgren gone... Pete Carroll is yet another college genious coach turned NFL folly coach? Too soon to say, but history is not in his favor. It is the Seagulls we're talking here.
27. Browns (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: New Browns czar Mike Holmgren had a big dilemma entering the draft – pick a QB at No. 7 or help an alarmingly horrendous secondary. When the draft dust settled, he got both. Who knew Texas star Colt McCoy would last until the third round? That just helps justify the correct decision to attack the back end of the defense, picking the best CB in the draft at No. 7, Joe Haden. Heading into camp, Cleveland is calling Panthers washout Jake Delhomme the QB of the present until McCoy is ready.
Some interesting additions to this team this year. They had a few highlights last year, so perhaps they are on the right path. Time will tell.
28. Raiders (5-11) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: How 'bout them Raiders? Give it up for Weird Al, as Oakland had its best offseason in years. Finally the QB position is not a running joke, with solid player and teammate Jason Campbell traded from Washington to stabilize the purple drank mess left by JaMarcus Russell. That in itself should help the Raiders compete for .500 this season.
Ha! Raiders need to clean house, starting with management to even be considered a .500 team. But ridding themselves of Russell is a good start.
29. Bills (6-10) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: OK, so where is the franchise QB in Buffalo? Trent Edwards? Ryan Fitzpatrick? Brian Brohm? Jim Kelly? Instead of going for a QB in the draft, the Bills worked on their running game with Mr. Electric C.J. Spiller – who's really a multi-purpose threat who is a highlight waiting to happen. That's wonderful and everything, but with no qualified blocker for him Spiller could have issues with running room.
Bills are like the kid in high school that everyone liked, but when it came to picking him for sports or asking him to the dance, he was always overlooked. Maybe next time, Bills.
30. Bucs (3-13) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Bucs have been looking for the next Warren Sapp for years. So this draft, they spent their first two picks on stellar DTs, figuring two guys could hopefully add up to one Warren. They chose wisely, getting no-brainer pick Gerald McCoy at No. 3 overall and UCLA's Brian Price at No. 35. The NFL's worst run defense just took a big step forward. This should give second-year QB Josh Freeman some hope of pulling a few upsets this season.
Maybe a 4-12 season, then? Not too optimistic about these guys.
31. Lions (2-14) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: The Lions could have left New York City after making the second pick in the draft, DT Ndamukong Suh. That's how good he is. The rest is just gravy in the long road back to respectability in Detroit. But that day is coming sooner rather than later as the Lions are slowly getting there.
*snicker* The Lions are still playing?! Professionally? Well, folks, here's your "over in ring 3 circus" team for the season.
32. Rams (1-15) – PRE-CAMP OUTLOOK: Sam Bradford will count his cash and his lumps all season long. The Rams are far from contending any time soon.
Rams could've had a lot going for them, ownership wise, but they got way too political during the off-season. Rams have what's coming to them this year: FAILURE.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
I should write these down before I forget!
I've been told that one should write down the things their children say for future enjoyment (or blackmailing! kid, I kid!). So here are a few things quotes from Aria that come to mind.
In no particular order:
~after returning home from a recent family wedding, Uncle Dustin asked Aria why she never danced with him. Aria's reply, "I only dance with boys who make me look pretty."
~while attending a friend's wedding recently, Aria was totally enthralled with the bride. Aria went up to her and quizzically asked, "what kind of shoes are you wearing?" My friend, the bride, lifted her skirt to reveal that she had on flip-flops. Aria's face had a look of disappointment as she sighed, "oh, I thought they'd be glass slippers."
~heard after Papa told Aria he'd eaten the resident wild cat's 4th leg, Aria joked, "well, did you eat it with salsa!"
~one of Aria's favorite words right now is ACTUALLY. For example, if you were to say "It might rain out today" Aria would respond "Actually, it won't rain, cuz the sun's out right now". Or if you were to say "Sadie and Riley are our dogs" she would respond "Actually, Sadie and Riley are my dogs". She counters almost anything we say with "Actually..." and yes, it does have a valley girl inflection to it!
~Thunderstorms in our home are called "Thunderheads!" And it is said in a menacingly low voice.
~She has a baby doll. Well, she has several. But her main and most prized baby doll is named Brian. Brian also is a cross-dresser. Brian is a boy doll, but wears dresses, has a bow in his hair and even has ruby-red shoes. Don't call Brian a girl, EVER! Brian just likes to wear dresses, cuz "they're pretty" according to Aria (he told her that).
~Aria's Uncle Craig works for BNSF and fixes trains. If she ever sees a train that is just sitting on the track and not moving, she almost always says "Uncle Craig needs to fix that train and it will work again!"
~One of her favorite movies right now is "Monsters courses Aliens". AKA Monsters VS Aliens.
~She likes wearing "high up heels" or what we call high-heeled shoes.
~for the longest time, my sister's baby Reagan, was gonna be Aria's sister, not cousin. Imagine the looks I got when Aria would announce to anyone who would listen "I'm gonna have a baby sister!"
~Daddy "sleeps at work". No, honey, he works at a sleep lab and helps people sleep better. But in Aria's world, he sleep there too!
~Tho my favorite is "Mom, you're the best mom in the whole, wide sea!" She says this to me frequently. :)
I Love my little Pookie!
In no particular order:
~after returning home from a recent family wedding, Uncle Dustin asked Aria why she never danced with him. Aria's reply, "I only dance with boys who make me look pretty."
~while attending a friend's wedding recently, Aria was totally enthralled with the bride. Aria went up to her and quizzically asked, "what kind of shoes are you wearing?" My friend, the bride, lifted her skirt to reveal that she had on flip-flops. Aria's face had a look of disappointment as she sighed, "oh, I thought they'd be glass slippers."
~heard after Papa told Aria he'd eaten the resident wild cat's 4th leg, Aria joked, "well, did you eat it with salsa!"
~one of Aria's favorite words right now is ACTUALLY. For example, if you were to say "It might rain out today" Aria would respond "Actually, it won't rain, cuz the sun's out right now". Or if you were to say "Sadie and Riley are our dogs" she would respond "Actually, Sadie and Riley are my dogs". She counters almost anything we say with "Actually..." and yes, it does have a valley girl inflection to it!
~Thunderstorms in our home are called "Thunderheads!" And it is said in a menacingly low voice.
~She has a baby doll. Well, she has several. But her main and most prized baby doll is named Brian. Brian also is a cross-dresser. Brian is a boy doll, but wears dresses, has a bow in his hair and even has ruby-red shoes. Don't call Brian a girl, EVER! Brian just likes to wear dresses, cuz "they're pretty" according to Aria (he told her that).
~Aria's Uncle Craig works for BNSF and fixes trains. If she ever sees a train that is just sitting on the track and not moving, she almost always says "Uncle Craig needs to fix that train and it will work again!"
~One of her favorite movies right now is "Monsters courses Aliens". AKA Monsters VS Aliens.
~She likes wearing "high up heels" or what we call high-heeled shoes.
~for the longest time, my sister's baby Reagan, was gonna be Aria's sister, not cousin. Imagine the looks I got when Aria would announce to anyone who would listen "I'm gonna have a baby sister!"
~Daddy "sleeps at work". No, honey, he works at a sleep lab and helps people sleep better. But in Aria's world, he sleep there too!
~Tho my favorite is "Mom, you're the best mom in the whole, wide sea!" She says this to me frequently. :)
I Love my little Pookie!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
How to go from "Yes!" to "ACK!!" in one story
The following piece was written by Mary Pols of MSN Movies. The title of her piece "The 3-D Backlash" caught my eye, as I'm am really not buying this 3-D movie experience being pushed by movie theaters and now personal television sales these days. I was wanting to read from a fellow 3-D naysayer, till I read further in her article. I've broken down the paragraphs as they read on the website, with my rebuttals to follow each section... watch for my tantrums later in the piece!!
Dear Hollywood,
I never write letters like this. I sometimes draft them in my head when I'm driving someone to camp or T-ball or the violin lesson they don't appreciate, but I never actually write them. Part of me thinks you don't really care what I think. Actually part of me knows that. But I just got back from taking my kids to the movies -- no correction, I just got back from paying $42.50 to take my kids to the movies -- and there are some things I have to say to you about your grand experiment with releasing every other movie, but particularly, specifically, family movies, in 3-D.
It's wrong. It's shameless. But worse than that, I think it's corrupt. In fact, I agree with that fine gentleman Roger Ebert, who, a few months ago, tweeted that 3-D is a "distracting, annoying, anti-realistic juvenile abomination to use as an excuse for higher prices." I apologize for all the italics, which I do believe are abused in our modern age, but I would like you to understand my outrage.
Okay, so far Ms. Pols, I'm with you %100! Can you even remember a recent movie that stands out as far as being original or memorable? I use netflix, so I've seen a lot of new movies, and none of them are worth the price to see in a theater, much less $20 to own. Now, 3-D is supposed to make crappy movies cool?! No, I am not that stupid, Hollywood.
I am not the kind of woman who usually gets worked up about such things. My husband does, but generally I'm much more easygoing. Think of me as Mrs. Middle America. We don't usually get all that bent out of shape, because we recognize that this is the good life we're living here in the U. S. of A., and we're not going to whine about the small stuff. But today, I'm hot and, yes, bothered.
I mentioned my husband. He's out of work. I hate to use the word unemployed because of all the bad connotations these days, you know, like you're unemployed and maybe that's just going to be your permanent state of affairs, as all the trend stories suggest. But my husband is just out of work, and while I'm sure it's not going to last long and we did plan ahead for a rainy day so we have money in the bank (enough to last six months, which is what our financial advisor suggested back when we felt we had enough finances to need advising about), obviously we have to think very carefully about our entertainment choices these days.
So far, so good, Ms. Pols. Sorry about your husband, but way to plan ahead! I wish I were so frugal with my $$.
You're aware of the heat spell we've had? I know it is always perfect weather in Los Angeles: believe me, we've all heard. But it's just been sweltering where we are, which is to say, everywhere you're not, and having already run up the water bill by dragging out the sprinkler three days straight, I broke down and took the kids to an air-conditioned matinee of "Despicable Me" in 3-D, which was our only option. $42.50. For one adult ($11) and three kids ($10.50 each) -- thanks for the 50-cents price break for them. Your generosity overwhelms me. Have I mentioned that it's sweltering? Now, the movie was fine -- better than I expected, really -- although I think maybe, just maybe that Carell fellow is a tad over-exposed right now. But do you know how many 3-D images I recall from it, just a day or so after seeing it?
Exactly one. There's an apple, and it really jumps off the screen. And then someone -- the evil banker, I think-- squeezes it, and the juice of the apple splatters out a bit, like it's going to hit your knee, and I did like that. I thought it was cool, special even. But was it worth the extra $4 for each of my kids? That's right, we pay 61.53 percent more for 3-D. Are you kidding me? For an apple spurting some juice? As for "Toy Story 3," which was a beautiful, remarkable movie, well, I could tell you all the ways in which that movie was exceptional, but its exploration of the third dimension was not one of them. Same for "Up."
I haven't seen Toy Story 3 or Despicable Me. I plan to tho, as my husband and I have weaknesses for cartoons, and they're usually entertaining and worth owning. I have seen Up, tho not in 3-D form. I really feel like I'm not missing out in life by not seeing it in 3-D, tho.
Don't even get me started on the glasses. I believe we had the commonplace model that costs about 65 cents to make, according to the New York Times. Anyway, the cheap glasses fall down Timmy's nose every time, which makes him fuss, which frankly, I don't need any more of. Max likes them because he thinks they make him look like Clark Kent. But that's Max; kind of a freak. They make my eldest, Mallory, sick to her stomach, which explains why I can't tell you when Gru turned the corner to being a good guy, because we were in the bathroom discussing whether or not she really needed to throw up or just wanted to. I personally hate the glasses. I think about the landfills. I know the theaters say they take them away and clean them and repackage them for the next customer, but since the people they employ to clean the bathrooms don't seem to know how to change a roll of toilet paper, I'm skeptical about the energy they'll expend to save the environment.
Also, it's easy to forget, when you're walking out of the theater in a daze, disoriented by the cost of your entertainment experience and the number of explosions you've had to experience at a proximity similar to what the poor soldiers in Iraq are going through on a daily basis, that your child is not wont to recycling and is, in fact, going to continue to clutch those glasses in his/her hands until you get to the mini van. At which point they will doubtless end up underfoot, crushed and useless to anyone soon enough. Except Max, who has about five pairs tucked into the corner of his big boy bed, along with his Superman cape.
I read a comment in response to this article that eluded to the fact that movies are presented in both 2-D and 3-D form. Perhaps Ms. Pols should bring her children to 2-D movies? And did she not bring the environment and the war into this article?! This is the direction you're heading? Oh, no! I get the analogies, but oh no! She starts to lose me here.
I'd like to state for the record that I am not opposed to all 3-D movies. Last year, when my husband was still in his job, we had a regular, twice a month movie date. During the course of 2009, we saw two movies in 3-D that really struck me as worth the extra money. The first was "Avatar," created in 3-D technology, rather than just converted to it after the fact. What kept me awake were the visuals, particularly the jellyfish and the boy Avatar's strong thighs.
Starting to veer horribly off the subject of your title to your piece, Ms. Pols.
Our other 3-D excursion was "Coraline," which convinced me that, yes, 3-D is a viable and important part of the movie arts, not purely a selling gimmick. Seeing "Coraline" in 3-D was magical, like seeing the Northern Lights on a winter's night.
Yes, I did a few drugs in college. Hello, didn't you, people? You're probably doing them right now! Off a hooker's bottom! In your Malibu dream houses! Which might explain how M. Night Shyamalan convinced you that "The Last Airbender" was ready for release instead of in the infant stages of becoming a movie.
Alright. Now I am officially offended. First of all, I am glad I am not following the crowd about M. Night Shyamalan. Lady in the Water wasn't good. The Happening I haven't seen. All his other films were good. Really good. The Last Airbender was good, too. It was refreshing to watch a movie that was based on something else not be sensationalized into something it's not. It stuck to the plot of the original show, it's characters were very close to the original (tho Aang was not as goofy as he is in the original), and the shots were beautiful. Anyone who is familiar with Avatar, the Last Airbender cartoon, would/should appreciate this movie. Obviously, like most critics, Ms. Pols tends to follow the crowd and not have an original thought of her own. Way to spew out what every other half wit critic has to say about this movie and it's director. Did I mention I'm not that stupid? Also, No! I did not do a few drugs in college. I am beginning to feel more like an individual more and more when I read the whole "didn't everyone else in high school or college" shtick. Those of you who think you're so nifty for experimenting with drugs really are followers. People like me, unfortunately are the minority, which makes us more original that you slackers! Which is kinda sad, cuz individuality is what you're trying to achieve when you do drugs. By not doing them, in this day, is more unique and in my mind, more noble than doing what "everyone else is doing". And Ms. Pols are you 15?! That is so lame!
But I digress. My outrage didn't really hit me until I went to the supermarket after "Despicable Me" and I realized I needed to creatively shave that extra $15 we'd spent for the 3-D apple out of our weekly food budget.
The kids don't know any better; they just want what is here and now and marketed to them. I agree with Ebert who called it a "form of extortion" directed at parents. I thought Pixar was above it, but there was "Up" and "Toy Story 3" and now I hear that the sequels to "Monsters, Inc." and "Cars" will be in 3-D too. Maybe by then my husband will be back in a job and I won't have so much to grouse about, but forgive me, I'm a little obsessed with things like the cost of milk and how quickly three children go through a dozen eggs. (And before you get on your high horse and bring up population control, I'd like to point out that the third child we had was conceived during the George Bush years, before we realized that Al Gore had a real point of view on the environment that we should have all been listening to.)
Who the hell brought up population control?! What does THAT have to do with 3-D movies? Oh yeah, now we see what Ms. Pols is really doing. Spewing more "critically acclaimed" media b.s. about garbage! Did she just inadvertently admit she shouldn't have had her 3rd kid cuz of Al Gore??! Did she not get the memo that global warming is like mermaids and unicorns: NOT REAL?! How does her 3rd born feel about this little revelation, I wonder. "Gee, Timmy, had we actually listened to Al, you wouldn't be here and mommy could take your other brother and sister to the movies after all." Oh, Ms. Pols, there's a level of arrogance and ignorance here that I can't even fathom here... and you are so off topic now.
So I'm writing to ask for mercy. I know things are tough for you people too. Box office receipts are down, and maybe only "Eclipse" and "Inception" will save the summer. This may mean you have to sell the lake house or something, I don't know. For us out here in the real, real America -- and by that I don't mean just the tea party types, I mean the people who have lost their houses or fear losing their houses or fear they'll never have a house to lose -- we'd prefer you cool your jets on 3-D. Plenty of us have three dimensional cats and dogs at home, so we really don't need "Cats & Dogs: Revenge of Kitty Galore" in 3-D. Mallory, by the way, is already agitating to see that.
You haven't presented a good case here at all, Ms. Pols. And what do you mean tea party types? You mean the types who don't want more taxes, the types who don't want more government infringement in our lives, the types who just want to live our lives as we deem proper without worrying about where our health insurance comes from, what our radio or t.v. broadcasts, what our kids are taught in school. We're the crazy ones, huh? But you would have us bow to your god, Al Gore, submit to increasingly oppressive taxes for the "good" of the less fortunate, abide by a government that plays the blame game and can't take responsibility for anything, but I'm the insensitive ignoramus. I'm tired of you liberal bullies. You can still bring up George Bush like he's still around, but we can't call Obama and Gore out for their incompetence, cuz we're not looking at it correctly. I'm done with you all! I'm gonna start pushing back. In my point of view we've staggered so far back from 2-3 years ago, and no one is to blame but those in charge, i.e., Democrat Liberals. Shame on you, Ms. Pols for taking a reasonable topic and twisting it to fit your typical left-wing template.
I know that to you, we're a marketplace and this is just business. But, like I said, to me and people like me, it's groceries and such. So come November, when "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1" comes out in 3-D, I'll just try some extortion of my own. "Mallory," I'll say. "We can see that in 3-D at the movie theater over Thanksgiving, as long as you're willing to eat turkey leftovers for three straight days." And she'll say, "Turkey tetrazzini is disgusting. What's the alternative?" And I'll say, "Or we could wait a few months for it to come out on DVD. Same movie, just flatter. And there will still be some small chance you can go to college." They say the trick with kids is giving them choices.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Middle America
She should actually sign it as Mrs. Bay area America, as this is how they all feel out there. Nothing about her article was original or insightful, like most state-run media type critics. Like them all, tho, they lure you in with a good title and enticing 2 or 3 paragraphs, then, BAM! vomit liberal propaganda all over like we should lick it up and be grateful. Maybe now, I will watch a 3-D movie to thumb by nose at Ms. Pols and those like her. Both my husband and I are fully employed and could probably afford the price to see a 3-D movie. Not to brag, Ms. Pols, you'd probably think I was being arrogant in that last statement. Well, maybe I was. It's fun when the tables are turned every now and then.
Mary Pols is a Bay Area-based journalist. She reviews movies for Time.com and was for many years a film critic for the San Jose Mercury News, Oakland Tribune and Contra Costa Times. She is also the author of a memoir, "Accidentally on Purpose," published in 2008 by Ecco/Harper Collins. When she's inspired, usually by something weird, she blogs about it at www.maryfpols.com.
Dear Hollywood,
I never write letters like this. I sometimes draft them in my head when I'm driving someone to camp or T-ball or the violin lesson they don't appreciate, but I never actually write them. Part of me thinks you don't really care what I think. Actually part of me knows that. But I just got back from taking my kids to the movies -- no correction, I just got back from paying $42.50 to take my kids to the movies -- and there are some things I have to say to you about your grand experiment with releasing every other movie, but particularly, specifically, family movies, in 3-D.
It's wrong. It's shameless. But worse than that, I think it's corrupt. In fact, I agree with that fine gentleman Roger Ebert, who, a few months ago, tweeted that 3-D is a "distracting, annoying, anti-realistic juvenile abomination to use as an excuse for higher prices." I apologize for all the italics, which I do believe are abused in our modern age, but I would like you to understand my outrage.
Okay, so far Ms. Pols, I'm with you %100! Can you even remember a recent movie that stands out as far as being original or memorable? I use netflix, so I've seen a lot of new movies, and none of them are worth the price to see in a theater, much less $20 to own. Now, 3-D is supposed to make crappy movies cool?! No, I am not that stupid, Hollywood.
I am not the kind of woman who usually gets worked up about such things. My husband does, but generally I'm much more easygoing. Think of me as Mrs. Middle America. We don't usually get all that bent out of shape, because we recognize that this is the good life we're living here in the U. S. of A., and we're not going to whine about the small stuff. But today, I'm hot and, yes, bothered.
I mentioned my husband. He's out of work. I hate to use the word unemployed because of all the bad connotations these days, you know, like you're unemployed and maybe that's just going to be your permanent state of affairs, as all the trend stories suggest. But my husband is just out of work, and while I'm sure it's not going to last long and we did plan ahead for a rainy day so we have money in the bank (enough to last six months, which is what our financial advisor suggested back when we felt we had enough finances to need advising about), obviously we have to think very carefully about our entertainment choices these days.
So far, so good, Ms. Pols. Sorry about your husband, but way to plan ahead! I wish I were so frugal with my $$.
You're aware of the heat spell we've had? I know it is always perfect weather in Los Angeles: believe me, we've all heard. But it's just been sweltering where we are, which is to say, everywhere you're not, and having already run up the water bill by dragging out the sprinkler three days straight, I broke down and took the kids to an air-conditioned matinee of "Despicable Me" in 3-D, which was our only option. $42.50. For one adult ($11) and three kids ($10.50 each) -- thanks for the 50-cents price break for them. Your generosity overwhelms me. Have I mentioned that it's sweltering? Now, the movie was fine -- better than I expected, really -- although I think maybe, just maybe that Carell fellow is a tad over-exposed right now. But do you know how many 3-D images I recall from it, just a day or so after seeing it?
Exactly one. There's an apple, and it really jumps off the screen. And then someone -- the evil banker, I think-- squeezes it, and the juice of the apple splatters out a bit, like it's going to hit your knee, and I did like that. I thought it was cool, special even. But was it worth the extra $4 for each of my kids? That's right, we pay 61.53 percent more for 3-D. Are you kidding me? For an apple spurting some juice? As for "Toy Story 3," which was a beautiful, remarkable movie, well, I could tell you all the ways in which that movie was exceptional, but its exploration of the third dimension was not one of them. Same for "Up."
I haven't seen Toy Story 3 or Despicable Me. I plan to tho, as my husband and I have weaknesses for cartoons, and they're usually entertaining and worth owning. I have seen Up, tho not in 3-D form. I really feel like I'm not missing out in life by not seeing it in 3-D, tho.
Don't even get me started on the glasses. I believe we had the commonplace model that costs about 65 cents to make, according to the New York Times. Anyway, the cheap glasses fall down Timmy's nose every time, which makes him fuss, which frankly, I don't need any more of. Max likes them because he thinks they make him look like Clark Kent. But that's Max; kind of a freak. They make my eldest, Mallory, sick to her stomach, which explains why I can't tell you when Gru turned the corner to being a good guy, because we were in the bathroom discussing whether or not she really needed to throw up or just wanted to. I personally hate the glasses. I think about the landfills. I know the theaters say they take them away and clean them and repackage them for the next customer, but since the people they employ to clean the bathrooms don't seem to know how to change a roll of toilet paper, I'm skeptical about the energy they'll expend to save the environment.
Also, it's easy to forget, when you're walking out of the theater in a daze, disoriented by the cost of your entertainment experience and the number of explosions you've had to experience at a proximity similar to what the poor soldiers in Iraq are going through on a daily basis, that your child is not wont to recycling and is, in fact, going to continue to clutch those glasses in his/her hands until you get to the mini van. At which point they will doubtless end up underfoot, crushed and useless to anyone soon enough. Except Max, who has about five pairs tucked into the corner of his big boy bed, along with his Superman cape.
I read a comment in response to this article that eluded to the fact that movies are presented in both 2-D and 3-D form. Perhaps Ms. Pols should bring her children to 2-D movies? And did she not bring the environment and the war into this article?! This is the direction you're heading? Oh, no! I get the analogies, but oh no! She starts to lose me here.
I'd like to state for the record that I am not opposed to all 3-D movies. Last year, when my husband was still in his job, we had a regular, twice a month movie date. During the course of 2009, we saw two movies in 3-D that really struck me as worth the extra money. The first was "Avatar," created in 3-D technology, rather than just converted to it after the fact. What kept me awake were the visuals, particularly the jellyfish and the boy Avatar's strong thighs.
Starting to veer horribly off the subject of your title to your piece, Ms. Pols.
Our other 3-D excursion was "Coraline," which convinced me that, yes, 3-D is a viable and important part of the movie arts, not purely a selling gimmick. Seeing "Coraline" in 3-D was magical, like seeing the Northern Lights on a winter's night.
Yes, I did a few drugs in college. Hello, didn't you, people? You're probably doing them right now! Off a hooker's bottom! In your Malibu dream houses! Which might explain how M. Night Shyamalan convinced you that "The Last Airbender" was ready for release instead of in the infant stages of becoming a movie.
Alright. Now I am officially offended. First of all, I am glad I am not following the crowd about M. Night Shyamalan. Lady in the Water wasn't good. The Happening I haven't seen. All his other films were good. Really good. The Last Airbender was good, too. It was refreshing to watch a movie that was based on something else not be sensationalized into something it's not. It stuck to the plot of the original show, it's characters were very close to the original (tho Aang was not as goofy as he is in the original), and the shots were beautiful. Anyone who is familiar with Avatar, the Last Airbender cartoon, would/should appreciate this movie. Obviously, like most critics, Ms. Pols tends to follow the crowd and not have an original thought of her own. Way to spew out what every other half wit critic has to say about this movie and it's director. Did I mention I'm not that stupid? Also, No! I did not do a few drugs in college. I am beginning to feel more like an individual more and more when I read the whole "didn't everyone else in high school or college" shtick. Those of you who think you're so nifty for experimenting with drugs really are followers. People like me, unfortunately are the minority, which makes us more original that you slackers! Which is kinda sad, cuz individuality is what you're trying to achieve when you do drugs. By not doing them, in this day, is more unique and in my mind, more noble than doing what "everyone else is doing". And Ms. Pols are you 15?! That is so lame!
But I digress. My outrage didn't really hit me until I went to the supermarket after "Despicable Me" and I realized I needed to creatively shave that extra $15 we'd spent for the 3-D apple out of our weekly food budget.
The kids don't know any better; they just want what is here and now and marketed to them. I agree with Ebert who called it a "form of extortion" directed at parents. I thought Pixar was above it, but there was "Up" and "Toy Story 3" and now I hear that the sequels to "Monsters, Inc." and "Cars" will be in 3-D too. Maybe by then my husband will be back in a job and I won't have so much to grouse about, but forgive me, I'm a little obsessed with things like the cost of milk and how quickly three children go through a dozen eggs. (And before you get on your high horse and bring up population control, I'd like to point out that the third child we had was conceived during the George Bush years, before we realized that Al Gore had a real point of view on the environment that we should have all been listening to.)
Who the hell brought up population control?! What does THAT have to do with 3-D movies? Oh yeah, now we see what Ms. Pols is really doing. Spewing more "critically acclaimed" media b.s. about garbage! Did she just inadvertently admit she shouldn't have had her 3rd kid cuz of Al Gore??! Did she not get the memo that global warming is like mermaids and unicorns: NOT REAL?! How does her 3rd born feel about this little revelation, I wonder. "Gee, Timmy, had we actually listened to Al, you wouldn't be here and mommy could take your other brother and sister to the movies after all." Oh, Ms. Pols, there's a level of arrogance and ignorance here that I can't even fathom here... and you are so off topic now.
So I'm writing to ask for mercy. I know things are tough for you people too. Box office receipts are down, and maybe only "Eclipse" and "Inception" will save the summer. This may mean you have to sell the lake house or something, I don't know. For us out here in the real, real America -- and by that I don't mean just the tea party types, I mean the people who have lost their houses or fear losing their houses or fear they'll never have a house to lose -- we'd prefer you cool your jets on 3-D. Plenty of us have three dimensional cats and dogs at home, so we really don't need "Cats & Dogs: Revenge of Kitty Galore" in 3-D. Mallory, by the way, is already agitating to see that.
You haven't presented a good case here at all, Ms. Pols. And what do you mean tea party types? You mean the types who don't want more taxes, the types who don't want more government infringement in our lives, the types who just want to live our lives as we deem proper without worrying about where our health insurance comes from, what our radio or t.v. broadcasts, what our kids are taught in school. We're the crazy ones, huh? But you would have us bow to your god, Al Gore, submit to increasingly oppressive taxes for the "good" of the less fortunate, abide by a government that plays the blame game and can't take responsibility for anything, but I'm the insensitive ignoramus. I'm tired of you liberal bullies. You can still bring up George Bush like he's still around, but we can't call Obama and Gore out for their incompetence, cuz we're not looking at it correctly. I'm done with you all! I'm gonna start pushing back. In my point of view we've staggered so far back from 2-3 years ago, and no one is to blame but those in charge, i.e., Democrat Liberals. Shame on you, Ms. Pols for taking a reasonable topic and twisting it to fit your typical left-wing template.
I know that to you, we're a marketplace and this is just business. But, like I said, to me and people like me, it's groceries and such. So come November, when "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1" comes out in 3-D, I'll just try some extortion of my own. "Mallory," I'll say. "We can see that in 3-D at the movie theater over Thanksgiving, as long as you're willing to eat turkey leftovers for three straight days." And she'll say, "Turkey tetrazzini is disgusting. What's the alternative?" And I'll say, "Or we could wait a few months for it to come out on DVD. Same movie, just flatter. And there will still be some small chance you can go to college." They say the trick with kids is giving them choices.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs. Middle America
She should actually sign it as Mrs. Bay area America, as this is how they all feel out there. Nothing about her article was original or insightful, like most state-run media type critics. Like them all, tho, they lure you in with a good title and enticing 2 or 3 paragraphs, then, BAM! vomit liberal propaganda all over like we should lick it up and be grateful. Maybe now, I will watch a 3-D movie to thumb by nose at Ms. Pols and those like her. Both my husband and I are fully employed and could probably afford the price to see a 3-D movie. Not to brag, Ms. Pols, you'd probably think I was being arrogant in that last statement. Well, maybe I was. It's fun when the tables are turned every now and then.
Mary Pols is a Bay Area-based journalist. She reviews movies for Time.com and was for many years a film critic for the San Jose Mercury News, Oakland Tribune and Contra Costa Times. She is also the author of a memoir, "Accidentally on Purpose," published in 2008 by Ecco/Harper Collins. When she's inspired, usually by something weird, she blogs about it at www.maryfpols.com.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
An open letter to all bicyclist
Dear Bicycle Enthusiast:
Today, you nearly killed me. Tho this wasn't the first nor will it be the last time this will happen.
I was coming home from work and as you probably know very well, we have lots of rolling hills. These rolling hills have what we call blind sides, as you don't know what is on the other side of them. You, Mr. Bicyclist, traveling east and I west, made the car in the same lane as you swerve around you so they wouldn't hit you. They almost hit me instead. This incident occurred on a blind rolling hill. Please realize, Mr. Bicyclist, that most of our beloved Highway 2 doesn't have much shoulder room. You truly are a road hazard.
While you say you pay taxes for the roads so you have every right to use them, I say that same logic should be applied to sidewalks: I have every right to drive my car on the sidewalk cuz my taxes paid for it. Um... der, no. See how irrational that is? We also on the highway, are in a vehicle made of metals, and plastics and steels, are (hopefully) wearing a seat belt and surrounded by airbags. You have a safety helmet. And really revealing shorts on. I understand this is your hobby, and while I think you are a tree-hugging, environment-wacko hippie (and you may not be, but to me you are), you do have every right to travel this way. I am at a loss for how this could be "a fun way to see the country" as most of the time you're attempting to ride a 2 inch wide shoulder, fight scorching heat, pelting rain and around here treacherous winds, but whatever floats your boat. Just understand most of us around here find you pretentious, smelly, and hazardous. And use our parks like your personal hotel room.
While I will try very hard to co-exist with you during the summer months here on the hi-line, realize most of us as we pass you only are waving so we don't do something else to you instead.
Sincerely,
A White-knuckled Motor Enthusiast
(dedicated to my sister-in-law/neighbor... who, just like me and numerous others, risks her life on the very same road everyday and gave me the inspiration to write this) =D
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Chester Centennial/July 4th
This past weekend was busy! The Chester Centennial/All School Reunion took place. I think between a classmates wedding the previous weekend and this weekend, I saw half of my graduating class. I have to say that while the numbers could've been a bit better, from my perspective the turn out was great. I visited with lots of old friends and took part in a few activities as well. Here's a rundown on what I learned from the weekend.
1) It's been 12 years since I graduated! There are times when I think, "gee, that wasn't too long ago... I could still go back." NO! It has been a while. Like I said, 12 years, people. I got a kick out of one of the fund raising events the Explore America kids were doing. They were raffling off a door that my art class had painted when I was a junior. I don't know who won that door, but when an item is being auctioned off that you did years ago and is no longer nostalgic to those who see/use it and is considered "in the way", you can not go back!
2) The pride/loyalty for my friends grows stronger every year. I took part in the community choir as my friend, Kris, had wrote a song for the event and was directing the choir as well. To see her in her element, to hear her talent and take part in it was a thrill for me! She is so talented! It was an honor to perform on her behalf. I also felt a welling of pride as the audience applauded her efforts at the end. Her twin brother, Kevin, has a show in the local art center and his stuff is amazing. I am proud to know these two artists and call them friends! I spent quality time with their entire family over the weekend (they're basically like my family anyway) and it was really a blast! Some other friends had just gotten married and I was so happy to see them and congratulate them. Others have families and are pursuing successful careers. It was so great to catch up with them and enjoy their company.
3) My family is also talented. I have received numerous compliments about Tony, Rick and Craig from their performance on Saturday. They sounded really good. They practiced really only a couple of times together before then, but it came off like they'd practiced for months! While I don't think they'd ever admit to it, they are a talented group and I'm sure this is not the last time they play for an event like this.
4) I still get nervous before I sing! Most of Saturday was occupied for me with choir rehearsal. Kris was trying to round up a couple of men to sing in a smaller ensemble for her piece we were doing that evening. Once she found them, we all went to Phil Aaberg's studio to practice. Other than Kris, I was the only girl there. The men she found are great singers. I felt less than adequate to be preforming with these individuals, but none the less, went for it. Considering we never practiced as a whole group, it came off all right. I will say that my knees are still trembling a bit from it tho! Kris gave me quite the esteem booster by asking me to join it, so thanks for her faith in me!
Gramma & Aria taking in some of the festivities.
Aria took this. A view of the action downtown.
Getting ready to play.
Tony, Rick, & Craig played an hour long set on Saturday for the Centennial.
I did't have my camera for most of the weekend, so I didn't get any pictures with friends.:( I didn't even make it to the class picture due to practice. If I do get any, tho, I'll be sure to put some up here.
To close the weekend, we did fireworks at our house. While the weather acted like it wouldn't allow for any outdoor activity, right at about 8 p.m., the winds died down the sun came out and it even warmed up a little. However, you will note we are wearing long sleeves and pants! ON JULY 4th! Where is global warming when you need it?! Oh, yeah... it WAS a hoax!
Tony and Aria prepping for some firework fun.
Uncle Dustin and Aria minutes before that glass bottle met its maker.
Spark in the Dark!
1) It's been 12 years since I graduated! There are times when I think, "gee, that wasn't too long ago... I could still go back." NO! It has been a while. Like I said, 12 years, people. I got a kick out of one of the fund raising events the Explore America kids were doing. They were raffling off a door that my art class had painted when I was a junior. I don't know who won that door, but when an item is being auctioned off that you did years ago and is no longer nostalgic to those who see/use it and is considered "in the way", you can not go back!
2) The pride/loyalty for my friends grows stronger every year. I took part in the community choir as my friend, Kris, had wrote a song for the event and was directing the choir as well. To see her in her element, to hear her talent and take part in it was a thrill for me! She is so talented! It was an honor to perform on her behalf. I also felt a welling of pride as the audience applauded her efforts at the end. Her twin brother, Kevin, has a show in the local art center and his stuff is amazing. I am proud to know these two artists and call them friends! I spent quality time with their entire family over the weekend (they're basically like my family anyway) and it was really a blast! Some other friends had just gotten married and I was so happy to see them and congratulate them. Others have families and are pursuing successful careers. It was so great to catch up with them and enjoy their company.
3) My family is also talented. I have received numerous compliments about Tony, Rick and Craig from their performance on Saturday. They sounded really good. They practiced really only a couple of times together before then, but it came off like they'd practiced for months! While I don't think they'd ever admit to it, they are a talented group and I'm sure this is not the last time they play for an event like this.
4) I still get nervous before I sing! Most of Saturday was occupied for me with choir rehearsal. Kris was trying to round up a couple of men to sing in a smaller ensemble for her piece we were doing that evening. Once she found them, we all went to Phil Aaberg's studio to practice. Other than Kris, I was the only girl there. The men she found are great singers. I felt less than adequate to be preforming with these individuals, but none the less, went for it. Considering we never practiced as a whole group, it came off all right. I will say that my knees are still trembling a bit from it tho! Kris gave me quite the esteem booster by asking me to join it, so thanks for her faith in me!
Gramma & Aria taking in some of the festivities.
Aria took this. A view of the action downtown.
Getting ready to play.
Tony, Rick, & Craig played an hour long set on Saturday for the Centennial.
I did't have my camera for most of the weekend, so I didn't get any pictures with friends.:( I didn't even make it to the class picture due to practice. If I do get any, tho, I'll be sure to put some up here.
To close the weekend, we did fireworks at our house. While the weather acted like it wouldn't allow for any outdoor activity, right at about 8 p.m., the winds died down the sun came out and it even warmed up a little. However, you will note we are wearing long sleeves and pants! ON JULY 4th! Where is global warming when you need it?! Oh, yeah... it WAS a hoax!
Tony and Aria prepping for some firework fun.
Uncle Dustin and Aria minutes before that glass bottle met its maker.
Spark in the Dark!
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