Thursday, August 31, 2006

August 31, 2006

Last night I headed over to the Barney’s Warehouse sale and was able to talk myself out of buying a Marc Jacobs (not Marc by Marc Jacobs) skirt. It was so pretty. It had black velvet trim with a bow on top and it was navy with a black lacy overlay. Originally it was $1800 but was marked down to $349 with an extra 20% off. But I decided Eli v. Peyton tickets were more important so I didn’t get it.

I also went out to dinner with my friend Rachel at Cafeteria. I had blackened catfish (surprise) with fried green tomatoes. It was so good. Then we went to Billy’s Bakery and we got cupcakes. I didn’t have mine yet, but Rachel got to try to the fresh chocolate frosting and said it was sweet like Magnolias. I’m sure Crumbs is better, but I love cupcakes!

Braves Update:
It only took two hours and 36 minutes for the Braves to beat the Giants 5-3 last night. Adam’s Army must have been pumped because the Braves first baseman went 4-4 including a two run triple, his first of the season, and three doubles. Chuck James continued to shine allowing only two runs in seven innings and Bob Wickman picked up another save. Please sign him for next year! The Braves finish off their series with the Giants tonight at 7:35 on TBS.

Games to .500: 5
Games behind San Diego Padres: 4
Games behind New York Mets: 19

Random Quote: “He’s some kind of athlete.” - Bobby Cox talking about Andruw Jones (via ajc.com)

NASCAR Update:
Kyle Busch thinks his team has a legitimate shot at winning the Cup title this year. I’m so sorry…it’s hard to type when you’re rolling around on the floor laughing. (nascar.com)

Kyle Busch’s current Hendrick Motorsports teammate, Brian Vickers is among some of the celebrities investing in the LA Fame, a new ABA team. Other investors include Nick Lachey, Lachey pal A.J. Discala, and former Oriole, Brady Anderson. (Whatever happened to him? He dated Ashley Judd and that was it.)

Todd Kluever will attempt to make his third cup start in the #06 this weekend. In his two previous starts Kluever has finished 41st and 43rd, so there’s no where to go but up, or 42nd, but hopefully up!

Giants Update:
Tonight is the final preseason game for the Giants. They take on Tom Brady and the rest of the New England Patriots at Giants Stadium in the battle of the GQ quarterbacks. (Ok well neither of them will actually play, but they’ll be battling from the sidelines giving their best posses to the cameras.) The game airs at 7:30 on NBC.

Around Sports:
Former Brave and current Los Angeles Dodger, Greg Maddux, got his 330th win last night moving him into tenth place on the all time wins list.

Apparently, Red Sox pitcher, Josh Beckett is quite the country fan. He has gone out on a few dates with “Finding a Good Man” singer, Danielle Peck and recently spent some time jamming with Joe Nichols. Beckett met up with Joe after a Red Sox loss to the Yankees, while the rest of the Red Sox’s nation got depressed and then probably wicked drunk.

Jesse Palmer, former Giants backup QB and Jeremy Shockey wingman was cut from the 49ers. So I guess he can go back to being Shockey’s wingman. Look out Hoboken!

Around the World:
A bartender received a $1000 tip off of a $26 tab. Cindy Kienow, the bartender, works at Applebees. I knew I should have gone to bartender school instead of college.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Carolyn Kepcher, aka the blonde woman judge on the Apprentice has been relieved of her duties on the show as well as at Trump National Golf Club in Westchester, NY. Trump’s daughter Ivanka will take over for her on the show. Apparently, the Donald was unhappy with her lack of focus, and most likely the fact that she received any sort of attention. After all, Melania is the only one allowed to get attention, but less than him of course.

Get well wishes go out to Trace Adkins who is recovering from kidney stones.

You can check out new videos from Toby Keith and Little Big Town on cmt.com. Also, you can check out the Top Twenty Countdown on CMT to see the debut of those videos plus Faith Hill's “Stealing Kisses.”

If you are going to be in Nashville on November 6th, you could be in the audience for the CMAs. Tickets go on sale September 15th and are priced at $150 and $200. I went last year and totally recommend it to anyone thinking about attending.

In other awards show news, tonight is the MTV Video Music Awards. Artists scheduled to perform are Christina Augilera, Fergie minus the Black Eyed Peas, Shakira, the All-American Rejects, Ludacris, The Killers, Panic! At the Disco, My Chemical Romance, Pharrell, T.I., Justin Timberlake, The Raconteurs (who?), Ok Go, Beyonce and Sarah Silverman (really?). The show will air live tonight at 8PM from Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Debbie Gibson who turns 36 today.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

August 30, 2006

This morning I was greeted by the Mutts’ mascot, baseball head, (I have no idea, nor do I care to know its actual name) as I left Penn Station. So it’s an upgrade from when I tripped walking up the stairs last week, but otherwise a crappy way to start my day.

Braves Update:
It was not a crappy day for the Braves as they beat the Giants (the other Giants) 13-8. Chipper Jones and Adam LaRoche each had a homerun last night. Andruw Jones knocked two out of the park, although he almost needed a pinch runner after he hit his second homer. Jones wiped out at first base. I know you have a bad knee and everything Andruw, but there really is no reason why you can’t just run around the bases without falling. After looking at Terry Pendleton, I think he had a similar response as me, laugh and then just shake your head. Jeff Francoeur was robbed a homerun by a leaping Barry Bonds. Barry, with a catch like that who needs pain killers? Tim Hudson got the win making his record this season 11-10. The Braves take on the Giants again tonight at 7:35 on FSN.

Games to .500: 6
Games behind San Diego Padres: 4
Games behind New York Mets: 19

Braves notes: Kyle Davies is on the mend and expected to pitch during Saturday's doubleheader againt the Phillies (I'll be at the afternoon game!)...There are two new fan clubs (well I just discovered them) for Braves players, Adams Army and LaRoche's Ladies (really? I get Frenchy's Maids or Chases Chicks but really?)

NASCAR Update:
1989 Cup Series Champ, Rusty Wallace and his wife, Patti were involved in a two car accident Monday night. They were on their way home from the airport when their Dodge Durango was hit in the passenger side door. Neither Rusty nor Pattie were seriously injuried although they both are a bit sore.

In random yet amazing news, the #66 car driven by Jeff Green will run an According to Jim paint scheme at Fontana this weekend. The paint scheme is to promote the syndication of Jim. Is it wrong that I love According to Jim? Probably…

Morgan McClure will be running a full schedule next year. They also said that they are in talks to partner with another team. For their sake, I hope it’s JGR or RCR because otherwise, they’ll be heading home early a lot next year.

Around sports:
It’s a good thing Matt Leinart held out for all that extra cash, as the first round draft pick will become a dad some time this fall. Former and possibly current girlfriend, Brynn Cameron, a 20 year old junior at USC is the mother. She will, of course, sit this season out. She plays for the USC girl’s basketball team. Good work Matt! Way to not get the multimillion dollar heiress pregnant and have your kid suck that well dry instead of your own.

Around the world:
While Florida was hit by a relatively weak tropical storm Ernesto, the people of Mexico are bracing for Hurricane John, which is now considered a category 4 storm.

Separated at Birth:

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations go out to Danity Kane, whose album debuted at #1 on the Billboard charts, selling 215,000 units this week. I sadly am addicted to Making the Band. It started with the O-town season and continued to MTB 2 with DaBand until their egos go too large and I couldn’t watch it anymore and then I moved onto MTB 3. This is so not my kind of music but good TV none-the-less.

Congratulations also go out to the Wreckers. Their single, “Leave the Pieces” climbed to the top of the Billboard country singles chart.

CMA nominations were announced this morning. Along with the nominations George Strait, Sonny Jones, and Harold Bradley were honored as the 2006 Country Music Hall of Fame inductees. They will be officially inducted during the November 6th broadcast. (Yeah George Strait!)

Here are some of the CMA nominations and who I want to win:

Entertainer of the Year:
Brooks & Dunn
Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley (x)
Rascal Flatts
Keith Urban

Female Vocalist:
Sara Evans (x)
Faith Hill
Martina McBride
Carrie Underwood
Gretchen Wilson

Male Vocalist:
Deirks Bentley
Kenny Chesney
Alan Jackson really, isn’t there some else we could include on this list? Joe Nichols perhaps? I know I'm reaching a bit on that one, ok, how about Blake Shelton? Toby Keith...anyone?
Brad Paisley (x)
Keith Urban

Vocal Group:
Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas
Little Big Town (x)
Lonestar really?
Rascal Flatts yeah, like they're not going to win
Sugarland

Vocal Duo:
Big & Rich
Brooks & Dunn (x) why do they have competitors?
Montgomery Gentry
Van Zant
The Wreckers

Horizon Award:
Miranda Lambert (x)
Little Big Town
Sugarland
Josh Turner he’s had two successful albums, I don’t think he can be considered best new artist
Carrie Underwood

Album of the Year:
Award goes to artist and producer
Hillbilly Deluxe – Brooks & Dunn
Me and My Gang – Rascal Flatts this was not their best effort and should not be included, listen to Julie Roberts “Men & Mascara” or Little Big Town “The Road Here” for real nominees Precious Memories – Alan Jackson
The Road and the Radio – Kenny Chesney totally grew on me, and I love it, but...
Time Well Wasted – Brad Paisley (x)

Single of the Year:
Award goes to artist and producer
“Believe” – Brooks & Dunn
“Better Life” – Keith Urban
“Jesus, Take the Wheel” – Carrie Underwood
“Summertime” – Kenny Chesney love the song but not really in the same league as the other four
“When I Get Where I’m Going” – Brad Paisley (x)

Song of the Year:
Award goes to songwriter and primary producer
“8th of November” – Big Kenny and John Rich
“Believe” – Craig Wiseman and Ronnie Dunn
“Jesus, Take the Wheel” – Hillary Lindsey, Brett James and Gordie Sampson
“Tonight I Want to Cry” – Keith Urban and Monty Powell
“When I Get Where I’m Going” – Rivers Rutherford and George Teren (x)

Musical Event:
“Building Bridges” – Brooks & Dunn Featuring Sheryl Crow and Vince Gill
“Like We Never Loved at All” – Faith Hill Featuring Tim McGraw (x)
“Politically Uncorrect” –Gretchen Wilson Featuring Merle Haggard WHY?
“When I Get Where I’m Going” – Brad Paisley Featuring Dolly Parton
“Who Said You Can’t Go Home” – Bon Jovi Featuring Jennifer Nettles

Music Video:
Award goes to artist and director
“8th of November” – Big & Rich
“Believe” – Brooks & Dunn
“Jesus, Take the Wheel” – Carrie Underwood great song, terrible, terrible video
“Kerosene” – Miranda Lambert (x) There’s fire!
“Where I Get Where I’m Going” – Brad Paisley

Musician:
Eddie Bayers – Drums
Jerry Douglas – Dobro (x)
Paul Franklin – Steel Guitar
Dann Huff- Guitar
Brent Mason – Guitar, Electric Guitar
Randy Scruggs- Guitar

I'm hoping for a Brad Paisley kind of night, he's always nominated for the big awards but he never wins them and he totally deserves to win!

Random Quote: “You need another job. I mean you have potential as a human being.” –Jeremy Piven to Billy Bush on the Emmy red carpet (via people.com)

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

August 29, 2006

I spent most of last night trying to catch up on Emmy fashion because I missed the red carpet by attending the MC concert on Sunday. My best dressed list would have to include in no particular order:

  • Katherine Heigl from Grey’s Anatomy, who glowed in a nude colored sparkly gown with an old Hollywood flare
  • Evangeline Lilly from Lost, in a simple plumb strapless dress with her hair in wavy loose curls
  • Julia Louis-Dreyfus from New Adventures of Old Christine in a white gown with black accents. I so did not want to like this dress, but it was too cute!
  • Heidi Klum from Project Runway in a red Grecian dress that fitted her pregnant figure perfectly.

    Worst include
  • Vanessa Manillo from TRL in a blue sparkly pageant dress. It was short, and really reminded me of what a 17 year old would wear to the senior prom.
  • Sandra Oh from Grey’s Anatomy, in a purple over accessorized dress. It was really upsetting because normally she looks so great. Think black and white striped mini dress that she wore to the SAG awards this year.

    All of these photos can be seen on people.com in their Emmy section.

Braves Update:
The Braves had the day off, but another Georgia team happily took the spotlight. The Columbus, GA team won the Little League World Series yesterday by a 2-1 score over Japan. Many of these kids attended Braves pitcher, Tim Hudson’s annual baseball camp. “I watch those kids all the time. It’s exciting to see those kids out there doing well,” Hudson said. Do you think any of those kids are free for a few major league games? Just kidding! (atlantabraves.com)

The Braves begin their series against a red hot San Francisco Giants team tonight at Turner Field. The game is at 7:35 on TS.

Games to .500: 7
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 4.5
Games behind New York Mets: 19

Random Quote: “The old man’s still doing it.” – Tim Hudson on John Smoltz (ajc.com)

NASCAR Update:
IRL driver and 2006 Indianapolis 500 winner, Sam Hornish, Jr. might run a few ARCA and Busch Series races along with the full IRL schedule next year if Roger Penske has his way. I’d be scared if I were Ryan Newman or Kurt Busch!

Around Sports:
We at popo have been following the story of Phillies Center Fielder, Aaron Rowand. Rowand underwent ankle surgery on Friday where two pins were placed in his ankle. Charlie Manuel is a bit delusional to think that the hard playing Rowand will be back this season even if the Phillies make it into the playoffs.


Red Sox slugger, Big Papi (David Ortiz) left the team on Thursday to return to Boston because of an irregular heart beat. This comes after Manny Ramirez missed his fourth start out of the last five games with a sore knee. You guys have got to get better so you can pull off a major upset in the AL East. Beat the SKANKEES!

Don Nelson will be coaching the Golden State Warriors this season. Where exactly is Golden State? Why aren’t they called the California Warriors or the Bay Area Warriors?

Popo in my Crib news:
Barry Bond’s former trainer, Greg Anderson will be heading back to jail after refusing to testify in a grand jury investigation of his long time buddy, Bonds. He could be there for up to 16 months. Greg watch out, because the popo are on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Gretchen Wilson is working on her third album. She calls it a more “honest” record. Here’s hoping it’s better than her latest effort. (cmt.com)

Congratulations go out to Kenny Chesney, he sold his one millionth ticket on his current “Road and the Radio” tour.

Celebrity Duets premieres tonight on Fox. It will feature actors/athletes singing with proven recording artists including country stars, Randy Travis, Clint Black, Lee Ann Womack and Wynonna Judd. The winning celebrity gets $100,000 to donate to their favorite charities which does not include them.

Jessica Simpson lost her voice and will be unable to make her scheduled appearances promoting her new album, “Public Affair.” At least someone in that family benefited from Ashlee’s SNL debacle. I’m going to have to say that this CD is terrible enough to bomb all on its own. Now that Simpson will be unable to promote it will fade from our memories even faster, and that’s the best gift Ms. Simpson could give us!

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Monday, August 28, 2006

August 28, 2006

So, last night, I missed the Emmy’s (don’t worry I have an update in celebrity tid bits) because I went to Continental Airlines Arena to see Mariah Carey. Sean Paul opened. If he fell on me, I wouldn’t know who he was. Everyone else seemed to know him and decided to dance in their seats, which produced more entertainment for me than Sean Paul, but once again, I’m pretty sure I’m the exception and not the rule. They kept asking for the sexy ladies, which, well creeped me out. After 40 minutes, he was gone and onto Mariah.

She came out in a bra and boy underwear set, which was a little less clothing than I was wanting, but it’s Mariah! She preformed a good mix of her new and oldies including, “Vision of Love”, “Dream lover”, “Fantasy”, “Hero”, “Honey”, “Heartbreaker”, “I’ll be There”, and all of the singles off her latest album. She preformed on a large stage, and a stage in the middle of the crowd. She had I think four costume changes, with each outfit, she was more covered up. During her costume changes she had DJ Clue and pal mix some records. It made me feel really out of it; besides “Poison” I really had not heard of any the other songs. Yikes! I feel like I’m not the demo. Also Mario (another person who could fall on me and I would have no clue who he was) made a guest appearance, and sang “One Sweet Day” with Mariah. My friend Niki, went crazy. She closed with “We belong Together.” I had a blast. Mariah was my favorite artist from about 8-13. While I’m not as die hard now, I’m glad that I got to see her. If she’s heading to a town near you, I totally suggest seeing her.

Be aware, they check for cameras. The first time I tried to go in, they made me get rid of my camera, but I went in a different entrance and was able to bring it in.


Sorry, this was the only picture I took of Sean Paul


The stage as Mariah came out.


Mariah Carey


Mariah on the center stage with dancers. (Sorry it's a little blurry)


Mariah with Mario


Mariah's finale

Braves Update:
The Bravos closed out their series with Washington Nationals with a 13-6 win. (This coming a day after John Smoltz pitched another fantastic game allowing only one run.) Oscar Villarreal, normally a relief pitcher, pitched 3 innings giving up four runs, before being taken out of the game. Lance Cormier, who was called up from AAA, pitched three innings giving up 2 runs, and Macay McBride got the win going two scoreless innings. The Braves offense was awesome with Chipper Jones, Jeff Francoeur, and Andruw Jones all hitting homeruns. Adam LaRoche drove in four runs and Brian McCann went 4-5. The Braves have today off and will close up their home stand going against the San Francisco Giants, Tuesday-Thursday before heading to Philly, where I’ll be stalking, I mean watching the game on Saturday!

Games from .500: 7
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 5
Games behind New York Mets: 18.5

NASCAR Update:
NASCAR was in Thunder Valley this weekend with three night races, starting Wednesday and continuing Friday and Saturday. It was an all Roush weekend as Mark Martin won the Truck Race and Matt Kenseth swept the Busch and Cup races. I was watching the Cup race, and I thought that it was a tad bit boring, missing the usual Bristol spice, but I thought, maybe it’s just me. Well it wasn’t. Other people who reviewed the race had a similar opinion. Chase contenders littered the top ten, which included Kenseth, Kyle Busch, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, Jeff Burton, and Jimmie Johnson. Kasey Kahne, who finished 12th, lost 51 points to new tenth place chaser, Mark Martin.

Standings after Sharpie 500
In the Chase:
1. Jimmie Johnson Leader
2. Matt Kenseth -7
3. Kevin Harvick -321
4. Kyle Busch -402
5. Jeff Gordon -408
6. Denny Hamlin -429
7. Jeff Burton -435
8. Tony Stewart -443
9. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. -448
10. Mark Martin -450
Outside Looking in (from 10th)
11. Kasey Kahne -90
There’s always 2007
12. Greg Biffle -251
13. Carl Edwards -261
14. Kurt Busch -390
15. Ryan Newman -463
16. Casey Mears -485
17. Brian Vickers -501
18. Jamie McMurray -518
19. Scott Riggs -572
20. Clint Bowyer -586
New Jersey’s Finest
23. Martin Truex, Jr. -665

It was confirmed that Mark Martin will not run a full Cup schedule with Roush Racing for 2007. He is expected to run a full Truck schedule.

Giants Update:
The Giants defeated the Jets 13-7 for the battle of New Jersey on Friday. (My Friday was crazy, Giants, Braves, and NASCAR all on the same night.) The Giants are 3-0 in preseason play.

Giants notes: The Giants have cut Rob Johnson, making the quarterbacks Eli Manning (starting), Tim Hasselbeck and Jared Lorenzen (backups).

Around Sports:
Congratulations to Marco Andretti. At 19 he became the youngest driver ever to win a race in the IRL, by winning Indy’s Grand Prix of Sonoma on Sunday.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
The Emmy’s Awards were present last night and here’s a rundown of the winners:

Drama Category
Best Series: 24
Best Actor: Keifer Sutherland, 24
Best Actrees: Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Best Supporting Actor: Alan Alda, West Wing
Best Supporting Actress: Blythe Danner, Huff

Comedy Category:
Series: The Office (Yeah!)
Best Actor: Tony Shalaub, Monk
Best Actress: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine (Is this because she was the only one with a series still on this season?)
Best Supporting Actor: Jeremy Piven, Entourage (Yeah!)
Best Supporting Actress: Megan Mullally, Will & Grace (Yeah!)

Other Categories:
The Daily Show won for outstanding variety, music or comedy show, and also for best writing in that category.

So, from what I’ve read, Conan O’Brien did a great job. I was somewhat happy with the winners, except no Greys :(. The nominations were pretty awful, so hopefully, next year the Emmy voters can do a better job nominating people like Lauren Graham from Gilmore Girls!

Mark Wahlberg’s new movie, Invincible, topped the box office bringing in $17 million followed by Talladega Nights with $8 million, Little Miss Sunshine with $7.5 million, Beerfest with $6.5 million, and Accepted with $6.5 million. Last week’s big winner, Snakes on a Plane fell to 9th place with $5.9 million.

Rascal Flatts announced new tour dates for their Me and My Gang Tour, including a stop at Madison Square Garden in New York City!

George Strait’s new album, It Just Comes Naturally will be released on October 3rd. It includes the song “Give it Away.”

Lee Ann Womack will be shooting her new video for “Finding My Way Back Home” in her home state of Texas. This will be the first single off her new album with the same title.

Random Quote: "I don't go buy my whole band $20,000 Mercedes." - Kenny Chesney on how he spends his money (via gactv.com) - Where do you find $20,000 Mercedes?

Happy Birthday Brandon Walsh, I mean Jason Priesley he turns 37.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Friday, August 25, 2006

August 25, 2006

Movies coming out this week:
Invincible
Idlewild
How to Eat Fried Worms
Beerfest
The Quiet

Braves Update:
The Braves had the day off yesterday, but that will not be enough for relief pitched Danys Baez. Baez had emergency appendectomy surgery after Wednesday's game and was placed on the 15 day DL.

The Braves take on the Washington Nationals at the Ted tonight at 7:35 on TBS.

Games to .500: 8
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 7
Games behind New York Mets: 19

Reminder: Sunday, Turner Field is hosting Bark in the Park, where you can bring your dog to the TED.

NASCAR Update:
Richard "Slugger" Labbe, who was released from Robert Yates Racing earlier this year, has landed at MB2 motorsports.

It's Bristol night race time!
3 Reasons why I love Bristol:

1) Beating
2) Banging
3) Wrecking

Sharpie 500 is on Saturday Night at 7PM on TNT

Giants Update:
Giants take on their arch rival, the Jets (aka Gang Green the disease nobody wants!) at Giants Stadium. The game is at 8PM on CBS.

Around Sports:
Albert Belle received jail time for stalking his former girlfriend. How the mighty have fallen.

Random Quote: In si.com's pop culture grid, participants were asked, "Lindsay Lohan is...", Jermaine Wiggins of the Minnesota Vikings responded, "A weirdo. An absolute weirdo." Steve McNair of the Baltimore Ravens responded, "Who?"

Around the World:
We at popo in my crib have been following the status of former President, Gerald Ford. Yesterday Ford, had an angioplasty at the Mayo Clinic. Get Well Mr. President.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Congratulations go out to the Deen family. Son, Jamie Deen and his wife Brooke welcomed a new addition to the Food Network's first southern family. Jack Linton Deen was born in Savannah, GA. Deen's grandmother is Paula Deen.

This Sunday, TV's finest, minus say Kevin James from King of Queens, will be honored at the Emmys. Crossing fingers for Grey's Anatomy and The Office cast!

Happy Birthday to two of my favorite Rachels, The O.C.'s Rachel Bilson (Summer) and 30 Minute Meals, Rachel Ray.

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Thursday, August 24, 2006

August 24, 2006

Yesterday, my brother came in from the City and he, myself and my mom went out to dinner at Gazelle and then followed up the healthy food with ice cream from Van Dykes. You need a balance in your diet.

Braves Update:
Chipper Jones hit the 350th homerun of his career and Adam LaRoche hit his 26th homer of the season but it wasn’t enough as the Braves lost to the Pirates 5-4. Jeff Francoeur was unintentionally walked, for I believe his 13th walk of the season. Patience, patience, patience Frenchy! I was wondering, is it possible for the Braves to play out the rest of their season on the road? Home games are just killing them. The Braves are 26-33 at home, while they are only one game under .500 on the road. The Bravos have the day off so they can think about losing a series to the Pirates!

Games to .500: 8
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 6.5
Games behind New York Mets: 18.5

NASCAR Update:
Mark Martin won the Truck Series race at Bristol last night. This is the fourth win for Martin in the Truck Series this year. He has also won in all three of NASCAR’s major divisions at Bristol. As for his plans for next year, he still delusionally thinks Todd Kluever will be in the #6 car and Martin will just be running the trucks. I feel like he’ll be on his farewell tour until 2010, when Roush Racing will finally be forced to reduce their teams from five to four.

In vomit in my throat news, Wally Dallenbach, Jr. will be co-race anchor with Bill Weber on TNT next year and unfortunately for years to come. It was described as “perfect” in the press release, but I think that’s only for people not forced to listen to their misinformed and laughable banter during the race. Lucky for us, they will only be doing the six Cup races TNT gets next year; unlucky for us this includes Daytona’s Pepsi 400. Why can’t they just have the Fox crew do the whole season? They are funny, I love Chris Meyers and his lack of motivation to actually learn things about NASCAR, Darrell Waltrip always has something to say, even if it’s wrong, but that’s what makes him so lovable, and Larry Mac is there to correct him. He’s the prefect straight man. Jeff is just upset that he doesn’t get to do the live play-by-play and is forced to work with Chris, that he makes phenomenally inappropriate comments. At least Fox’s crew understands how to broadcast a race. When you’re watching the NBC/TNT crew, they’ll mention that there is an exciting race for the lead, and instead of showing that, they’ll be doing close ups on Morgan Sheppard’s car. Ahhh…enough ranting…onto other news. (nascar.com)

Giants Update:
The Giants have finished their training camp at the University of Albany. The boys will continue practicing at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. 40,655 people attended training camp this year, second only to 2004 when 45,040 fans attended, aka Eli’s rookie season.

Around Sports:
Former New York Knick’s head coach, Pat Riley will be returning to the Miami Heat as the head coach for the 2006-2007 season. Riley led the Heat to their first ever NBA title last season.

The U.S. Open is set to begin next week making Queens the place to be for two whole weeks. This year’s open has Andre Agassi playing in his final tournament. He along with Serena Williams are unseated. Take that Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova!

It was ejection night, as the Dodgers took on the Padres. Starting pitcher Brad Penny and Manager Grady Little were tossed in the fifth inning after Penny argued with the umpire because a pitch was called a ball walking the batter and Penny did not agree. If only his girlfriend, Alyssa Milano, could use some of her Charmed magic. Although, I think she was the one that could see things happen before they happened, so that would do much in this case. She would need to freeze time or something. Little Penny were joined by Julio Lugo in the clubhouse. Lugo was ejected during the fourth inning for throwing his helmet. The Dodgers lost 7-2 allowing the Padres to complete the sweep. The Dodgers are now just one game ahead of the Padres in the NL West race.

Belated Birthday wishes go out to Mets player, Julio Franco who turned 48 yesterday, we think!

Random Quote: “At 32 years of age, I would like to think he has a brain and would think: 'This could more than likely be my last stop.’”- Terry Bradshaw on T.O. (Best Damn Sports Show Period via foxsports.com)

Separated at Birth:


Around the World:
Pluto was demoted to dwarf status leading to a new reality show, “Little Planet, Big Universe.”

A mountain lion invaded a home in Colorado but left after realizing it was the shack inhabited by the unibomber and the crazy loon who purchased the home knowing Teddy was the previous owner.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
John Michael Montgomery entered an “alford plea” stemming from his DUI arrest earlier this year. The country singer will have to pay $663.50 in fines and must enroll in an alcohol education program. So it has not been a good year for people associated with Eddie Montgomery. His Montgomery Gentry band mate, Troy Gentry is facing charges stemming from his alleged killing of a tamed bear and now his brother, John, with the DUI, I’d watch out if I were his wife. (via cmt.com)

Owen Wilson was flashed at the premiere of his new movie “You, Me and Dupree” in London. I’m pretty sure this isn’t something he hasn’t seen before, or well, something that hasn’t happened to him before.

As if I needed another reason to head over to the Cracker Barrel. The amazing country time restaurant is releasing a 12 track album featuring Jo Dee Messina, Blake Shelton, Randy Travis, Lonestar, and the Wreckers. The CD also has duets from Deana Carter and Heart, Jack Ingram and Willie Nelson, as well as Jamie O’Neal and Michael McDonald. $125,000 of the proceeds from the sales of this album will benefit the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Rumors are spreading that the Saturday Night Live cast is going to be downsizzed by as many as four cast members. Names being thrown around include Chris Parnell (this would be the second time he's fired from SNL), Will Forte, Horatio Sanz (about time), and Keenan Thompson. In addition, SNL will not add any new cast members. The only one I would upset if he had to leave would be Keenan. I grew up with him on All That, Keenan and Kel and D2. He was also amazing in Snakes on a Plane.

Happy birthday wishes go out to Craig Kilborn.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

August 23, 2006

Boredom central today. Only two weeks left in the unofficial summer, and I’m so sad. I love fall, pumpkin/apple picking, not too hot, but not too cold, prefect for a walk, etc… but the summer is where my heart is!

Braves Update:
The Bravos suffered another late inning blow from the relief staff, this time by the hands of Danys Baez, thus negating the five strong innings pitched by Oscar Villarreal. The Braves went into the top of the 8th inning leading by one run and left it, down three. The Braves were able to put one more run on the board, but it was not enough, as the Braves fell 5-3 to the Pirates. Tony Pena, Jr. got his first homerun of the season in the fifth as a pinch hitter for Villarreal. The Braves complete their series against the Bucs tonight at 7:35 on FSN.

Games to .500: 7
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 6.5
Games behind New York Mets: 17.5

In a SI poll, of 470 players Bobby Cox was named the best manager in Baseball.

NASCAR Update:
Carl Edwards was fined $20,000 for violating section 12-A (actions detrimental to NASCAR) and was placed on probation until 12/31/06. What is probation? Is that like Stephen Colbert telling you that he has his eye on you or what? It's an empty threat. Plus this little Edwards outburst is what NASCAR needs. It needs a throw down in the super stretch at Daytona. I miss those days. Tony hasn't hit/shoved anyone is so long, I almost forget what it's like.

Sad news, Ward Burton said he has not signed with a Toyota team for next year. Can someone, please give him a ride?

Tony Raines has reupped with Hall of Fame Racing for next year. The #96 team has had both Raines and two time cup champion Terry Labonte sharing the ride this year, but will be exclusively driven by Raines in 2007.

Giants Update:
Giants head coach, Tom Coughlin has begun to lighten up! The hard nosed coach had this to say about Monday’s scuffle between two helmeted football players, “That should be the first question the on the (players) IQ test.” (via foxsports.com) Whatever you’ve got to do to get this team to the playoffs Tommy!

Around Sports:
Tommy Glavine will not need surgery to deal with a blood clot in his shoulder and could begin pitching in the next 7-10 days. He was not put on the DL by the Mets.

Random Quote: “He’s been on the disabled list twice now and both times he’s ran until something stopped him.” – Phillies Manager, Charlie Manuel on Aaron Rowand

Around the world:
Three Mexican fisherman survived nine months living off of rain water and raw fish. (I’d imagine that this isn’t sushi grade raw fish.) The men departed with two other people on October 28, 2005 from San Blas, Mexico when their boat was pushed out to sea by bad weather and subsequently ran out of gas. Two members including the owner of the boat died from starvation and were then thrown over board. Something does not seem right, but I’m just guessing.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Tom Cruise received the boot from Paramount Pictures. The movie studio decided to not renew the mega crazy, I mean mega star’s production deal after 14 years citing Tom’s behavior as the reason for the split. Isn’t Nicole Kidman glad she doesn’t have to deal with his crazy ass anymore, huh?

In politically correct news, Survivor will separate its contestants by race. (Hispanic, African American, Asian, and white) I don’t know why people are getting their panties in a twist over this. It’s been a while since people have actually cared about Survivor so they are trying to generate some buzz, even if it is very, very wrong, or maybe it’s very, very right. I guess someone (probably not me) will have to tune in and check it out, and then hopefully post it on a blog so I can find out the answer.

Chris Pratt (aka Bright from Everwood) will be joining the cast of The O.C. on Thursdays this fall, giving me a reason to set my VCR for The O.C. Yeah, I still don’t have a Tivo!

Two a Days, MTV’s newest reality show, focusing on the 2005 season of the Hoover, Alabama high school football team premieres tonight at 10:30 after Laguna Beach. I’m really hoping this is going to be good like the first season of the Laguna and less like the current season of Laguna or any Real World after Seattle.

Happy birthday wishes go out to Scott Caan from the Ocean’s movies and my favorite Varsity Blues. Caan, the son of Godfather and Las Vegas actor James Caan turns 30.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

August 22, 2006

Today got off to a rousing start as I fell walking up the stairs in Penn Station, but luckily for me I didn’t break or sprain anything. Bonus! I guess Aaron Rowand did enough falling/breaking for one day! (More in the Around Sports section)

Braves Update:
John “Team Captain” Smoltz threw a three hitter while going 8 scoreless innings before turning the ball over to Bob Wickman who picked up another save for the Bravos in their 3-0 win over the Pirates. The Braves called up Martin Prado from triple A to play second for a still ailing, Marcus Giles. Prado had a two run double in the fifth. But the only run needed was driven in in the third inning by Edgar Renteria. The Braves have won 4 out of 5 and moved into fifth in the Wild Card standings. The Braves take on the Pirates tonight at 7:35 on TS.

Games to .500: 6
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 5.5
Games behind New York Mets: 16.5

Braves notes: Pitcher Lance Cormier was sent down to triple A to make room for Martin PradoKyle Davies seems to be almost ready for a major league comeback. Davies threw seven innings allowing only one earned run for Richmond yesterday. He should return once the rosters expand.

NASCAR Update:
Scott Wimmer will not be the driver of the #00 Burger King/Domino’s Toyota for Michael Waltrip Racing as previously noted yesterday. Stupid Rumors!

More stupid rumors, Ward Burton might have signed with a Toyota team for next year. Details are still sketchy at this point.

Car of Tomorrow testing took place yesterday at Michigan. The new cars feature a more boxy design and a wing.

Around Sports:
The Phillies might have suffered a big blow to their wild card hopes as Aaron Rowand and Chase Utley collided during the 8th inning last night. Both players were going after Cubs’ John Mabry fly ball when they ran into each other. Rowand, originally was thought to have just sprained his ankle but x-rays showed a break. He is expected to be out 4-6 weeks, so probably until next year! Utley was seen limping in the clubhouse after the game. “This is the second collision for Rowand. The first one involved a metal bar at Citizen’s Bank Park, where Rowand broke his nose making a running catch against the Mets.” (mlb.com) The Phillies won 6-5 and reached .500 for the first time since June. Aaron is not too concerned with the injury pointing to a 2002 motorcycle crash were he broke his left shoulder blade, punctured a lung and broke two ribs. "I went off a 25-foot cliff and landed like that, so falling a couple of feet to the ground ain't going to hurt me." Hey Aaron, have you met Ben Roethlisberger?

The fun of brawls in sports is to kick the other team’s asses, but the Toronto Blue Jays do not feel the same way. Manager John Gibbons got into a bit of a scuffle with pitcher Ted Lilly. Lilly claims no punches were thrown, but somehow Gibbons ended up with a bloody nose. So I guess Ted’s quite the screamer. Other witnesses said that Gibbons pushed Lilly, but since this took place in the tunnel leading from the dugout to the clubhouse, there aren’t any true visuals. Lilly was upset that he was taken out of the game early and was said to be waiting for Gibbons in the tunnel. The Blue Jays lost to the A’s 12-10.

Yesterday I was reading si.com and came across an amazing recommendation that I’m passing along to you. If you’ve got time on your hands, head over to royals.mlblogs.com. Skip over the official press releases and check out the comments by Royals fans. They feature gems like this one, “It seems a tad redundant for the Royals to have minor league teams. The Royals ARE a minor league team. As they say at Wal-Mart, ‘Always low payroll. Always.’” (jmerritt68)

Celebrity Tid Bits:
The Beckhams have a new fragrance, Intimately Beckham for him and for her; although I’m pretty sure there are a lot of hers that already know David intimately without even trying the fragrance.

Congratulations go out to Boy George who has completed his community service.

Congratulations go out to Keith Urban whose new single “Once in a Lifetime,” debuted at no. 17 on the Billboard country singles chart, making it the highest debuted single ever! This is the first single off of Urban’s yet to be released new album.

Chris Cuomo was named the new anchor of “Good Morning America.” He replaces Charles (sometimes known as Charlie) Gibson who left to anchor “World News Tonight.” Cuomo is certainly a step down from Gibson but a big step up from Weir, the weekend anchor.

In other GMA news, Sam Champion of WABC in NYC has been named weather anchor! I love Sam Champion, another upgrade for the morning news program!

American Idol auditions keep rolling on, this time stopping in Birmingham, Alabama home to Idol winners Ruben “where are you now” Studdard and Taylor Hicks, as well as season 4 runner up, Bo Bice.

Random Pairing of the day: Why exactly was Burt Reynolds (one of the greatest actors of all time) at Ludacris' album release party? Are they planning on doing Smokey and the Bandit 3?

Random Quote:"The person I feel saddest for is Britney." - Paula Abdul commenting on K-Fed (via usatoday.com)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Monday, August 21, 2006

August 21, 2006

This is my one month blogging anniversary!!

This weekend, I chilled around the Wood. Rachel came in from the big bad city and we had lunch at Winberies and then went to see Snakes on a Plane. May I say, the best movie I’ve seen all year. (Except for Glory Road, I really liked that movie.) Oscar worthy, I think not, but it was super funny and I’m pretty sure it was meant to be that way. We had an interactive group with us in the movie theater that clapped, laughed and shouted at the screen, I think that’s the way this movie is meant to be viewed.
Before I went to see Snakes on a Plane, I watched the Mets' 20th celebration. I was originally planning on attending, because when I was three, I admit it, I was a Mets fan. But I grew up and got smart! Anyway, it was nice to see Howard Johnson, Darryl Strawberry, Mookie Wilson and co again. At one point there was a sky jumper and I thought, actually I prayed that it was Doc Gooden coming in from prison, ala Prison Break, but it was not meant to be. Apparently going to the Mets' 20 year celebration does not constitute a just reason for getting out of prison, even if only for a few hours. It was absolutely pouring so I was glad that I didn't go. But it seemed like everyone there was having a blast.
Sunday night, I watched the Colts game. Do you think NBC is hyping up Manning bowl or what? They had a clip of Cooper Manning (the mysterious third brother who obviously got he looks in the family) commenting on Peyton and Eli’s relationship. Apparently, if they were not brothers they would not be friends. Maybe we should ask Kenny Chesney, he seems to be friends with both of them!

Braves Update:
The Braves came into Sunday’s game on a three game win streak and had it snapped after a 9th inning mental era by Braves first baseman, Adam LaRoche. Lance Cormier pitched a solid 6 innings giving up three runs. Jeff Francoeur was able to tie the game at 3 a piece with a two run homer only to see Tyler Yates give up the go ahead run in the 7th. In the 9th, Jeff Francoeur extended his single into a double and Matt Diaz was hit by a pitch to have runners at 1st and 2nd for Adam LaRoche. Roche bunted for some unknown and uncalled reason into a double play which left Matt Diaz on second. The Marlins walked pinch hitter Brian McCann brining up Ryan Langerhans who popped up for the final out, brining the road trip to a screeching halt, as the Braves lost 4-3. The Braves take on the Pirates tonight at the Ted at 7:05 on TS.

Games to .500: 7
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 5.5
Games behind New York Mets: 17

The Shane Victorino play of the game: Matt Diaz running into the wall while trying to catch a pop fly. Andruw Jones seemed to be unable to stop laughing and Jeff Francoeur could not even look at him as the walked to the dugout. Matty, it’s best to realize that when you start running on clay, you’re on the warning track, and the outfield wall is not too far behind!

As if I needed another reason to love Braves all-star catcher Brian McCann, Manager Bobby Cox said that McCann has been playing with multiple injuries including an ankle problem, a hand injury, apparently, he has a nice sized bruise on his thigh from being hit by two foul balls, and he has toe problems, but that didn’t stop him from getting 3 RBIs on Saturday and from batting over .340!

NASCAR Update:
It was a wild weekend for the Dale Earnhardt, Jr. at Michigan. The 2004 Daytona 500 winner had a few run-ins with Carl Edwards on Saturday during the Busch race. Junior, Robby Gordon and Edwards were racing for the win, when Edwards appeared to get loose and Junior tagged the back of him, causing Edwards to spin out. On the cool down laps, Junior had his hand out the window trying to get air into the car; Edwards rammed his car against the side of June’s car almost taking off his left hand. Junior, normally the sweet, aw shucks, kind of guy seemed unapologetic in victory lane, probably feeding Carl to come over and tell Junior exactly how he felt. (Edwards is expected to be fined as of post time, nothing is official.) This was only on Saturday!!

On to Sunday! Jeff Burton started on the pole, but lost an engine early on, placing him in 42nd place. Jimmie Johnson hit the wall and cut down a tire by lap 3, but this time he was unable to come back for the win. Dale Jr. spent the mid-section of the race in the lead, until a pit stop on lap 132 where the Bud crew experienced trouble getting the rear tire off and Junior ended up 19th after the stop. He battled back and finished 6th, but it wasn’t the spot he was hoping for. Matt Kenseth was able to hold of Jeff Gordon in the final laps to win the Marketplace 400. My favorite quote from the post race interviews came from Jeff Gordon who said that he wanted to get up to Kenseth to prove that he could pass him cleanly for the win, referring to his Chicago win in July.

In Other News:
Scott Wimmer is expected to be named driver of the #00 Burger King/Domino’s Toyota for Michael Waltrip Racing. Wimmer will be joined by teammates Michael Waltrip and Dale Jarrett for the 2007 season.

Jeremy Mayfield has officially signed with Bill Davis Racing for the 2007 season.

And the Mayfield/Evernham split got super ugly. Mayfied claims that Ray’s personal relationship with driver Erin Crocker caused some of the problems. One of the Evernham crew accused Shana Mayfield (Jeremy’s wife) of saying that she told Jeremy to make sure the #19 didn’t finish in the top 35 in points. The case was settled out of court. Can Jeremy Mayfield ever leave a team on normal terms?

Standings after Michigan
In the Chase
1. Jimmie Johnson Leader
2. Matt Kenseth -54
3. Kevin Harvick -317
4. Mark Martin -395
5. Tony Stewart -406
6. Jeff Gordon -434
7. Kyle Busch -443
8. Denny Hamlin -445
9. Jeff Burton -449
10. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. -484
Outside looking in (from 10th)
11. Kasey Kahne -49
There's always 2007
12. Greg Biffle -189
13. Carl Edwards -244
14. Kurt Busch -279
15. Brian Vickers -397
16. Jamie McMurray -426
17. Casey Mears -429
18. Ryan Newman -437
19. Clint Bowyer -467
20. Elliot Sadler -532
New Jersey's Finest
23. Martin Truex, Jr. -606

Around Sports:
Get well wishes go out to Tom Glavine. Tommy experienced coldness in his left ring finger following his start against the Phillies on Wednesday. The 40 year old pitcher could be suffering from a blood clot in his shoulder, but is scheduled for tests this week to get a more definitive answer. Glavine could miss the remainder of the season. Tom was diagnosed with Raynaud’s in 1990 which is caused by poor circulation. Evan though Tommy left the Braves a few years ago, I still hold out hope that one day Tommy will be back in a Braves uniform. Well, actually my dream is to have Glavine, Smoltzy, and Maddux back in Braves uniforms for one last, magical farewell season, in which the Braves win the World Series…Braves Manager Bobby Cox has this to say after hearing about Tom’s condition, “I know that it’s the Mets and all and we root against them…but we root for Tommy.” (ajc.com) My sentiments exactly!

Aaron Durlsey of the Dhahran, Saudi Arbia team, at 6-8, 256 pounds towers over his little league world series teammates. Anyone remember that kid who pretended he was 13 but was really 15? Danny Amanti, I think, anyway, this kid totally reminds me of him. PS, there can only be one Julio Franco, whose age is a mystery to everyone, including himself, well probably!

Random Quote: “There are no unimportant games left in the season.” –Aaron Rowand, CF Phillies (via foxsports.com)

Popo in my crib news:
Jeremy Barfield, son of all-star outfielder Jesse Barfield, was charged with class A misdemeanor charge of family assault after shoving his father down the stairs. Jesse hit his head on the floor and was hospitalized. “The arresting deputy said that Barfields were getting ready for church and went to check on what was delaying Jeremy, ‘and they got into an argument.’” Jeremy was drafted in the ninth round by the New York Mets in June. Now he’ll be playing for the sing sing Mets in the prison league next year! Jeremy, watch out because the popo are on your tail! (foxsports.com)

Celebrity Tid Bits:
You may have remembered a few weeks ago I reported that Brooke Burke was pregnant, well now she and boyfriend, David Charvet have gotten engaged. I’m still not convinced that David is an upgrade from ex-hubby Dr. Garth Fisher. Only time will tell.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Friday, August 18, 2006

August 18, 2006

It’s Friday, or as I like to call it, the greatest day ever! Why? Snakes on a Plane is finally in a theater near you! There are snakes on this mother f’ing plane kids, and Samuel L. Jackson is going to kick some ass!

New to theaters this weekend:
Little Miss Sunshine (opens wide)
Snakes on a Plane
Accepted
Material Girls (not shown to critics…not good Duff sisters, not good!)
Factotum

Braves Update:
Oscar Villarreal pitched a flawless game yesterday afternoon, allowing one hit and one walk in five scoreless innings as the Braves defeated the Nationals 5-0. Brian McCann started the scoring early with a solo shot in the 2nd, his 16th of the season. Edgar Renteria and Marcus Giles both drove in two runs, in a needed victory for the Braves. They split the series with the NL East’s last place team and moved up a game in the Wild Card standings with only six weeks to go in the season. The Braves will take on the Marlins tonight at Dolphins Stadium. The game is at 7:35 on TBS.

Games to .500: 8
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 5.5
Games behind New York Mets: 16

Random Quote: “We definitely wanted to win three out of four, but getting a split, I guess it’s better than kissing you sister.” – Marcus Giles

NASCAR Update:
NASCAR is invading Michigan this weekend and I am really excited. Why…
1) Elliot Sadler will be making his Evernham debut.
2) Only four more races to the Chase and Kyle Busch is still in it. Yuck, let’s see if he can fall out and Kasey Kahne can move in.
3) Michigan is a great track…multiple groves, high speeds; I love it, even if Junior doesn’t always feel the same.

Qualifying is today at 3PM on Speed.
Marketplace 400 is Sunday at 2PM on TNT.

Giants Update:
Giants destroyed the Kansas City Chiefs 17-0 last night. Eli Manning threw one touchdown pass, as the Giants moved to 2-0 in the preseason. Let’s not peak too soon boys! Jeremy Shockey caught a pass for 10 yards and Tiki rushed for 22 yards.

Happy Birthday Jeremy Shockey, 26 all ready, someone's getting old!

Around Sports:
Following a conflict filled series culminating in Wednesday’s brawl, 8 players from the Angels and Rangers teams have been suspended including both managers, Buck Showalter and Mike Scioscia.

Popo in my Crib News:
Haley Joel Osment of the Sixth Sense has been charged with DUI and possession of marijuana among other things, stemming from a July 20th car crash in which his 1995 Saturn met a brick pillar. Osment suffered a broken rib. Watch out Haley, the popo is on your tail!

Celebrity Tid Bits:

From page six today, we learned that the Madden brothers have a thing for underage girls. Benji Madden of the band Good Charlotte has been spotted out with Caleigh Peters daughter of producer Christine Peters. Caliegh at 17, is 7 years his junior. You may remember that twin brother Joel began dating current squeeze, Hilary Duff, when she was 16 and he was 23. I’m 23 now and I could not imagine dating someone who was 16, because he would be at best a junior in high school. gross, grOSS, GROSS!

This is an old picture of Benji circa 2002

Congratulations to Kellie Martin of Life Goes On and ER fame, she and her husband are expecting.

Happy birthday Patrick Swayze, have the time of your life!

I added a few pictures to yesterday's blog, so check them out!

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate



Thursday, August 17, 2006

August 17, 2006

Ah, only one more day until Snakes on a Plane, I can barely contain my excitement!

Yesterday, I went to the Yankees v. Orioles game up in the Bronx. It was a bunch of fun. One third of the team was former Phillies as Bobby Abreau, Corey Lidle, and my favorite, Sal Fasano (most amazing facial hair in baseball right now) all started the game. Christina Aguilera managed to take in the game as well, but was not seated near me and the rest of the bleacher creatures. (Note to anyone planning on sitting the bleachers, they do not sell French fries! I was a little disappointed but had to settle for cotton candy. Mmmmm!) I almost forgot, the Yankees lost 3-2. This is the first Yankee game I’ve ever been to, where the Yankees didn’t win. The streak had to come to an end sometime. I’ll be back in the Bronx in September so we’ll see how long this new streak will last.

Here are a few photos

Yankees during the national anthem


Niki, Jennifer, Beth, Tara, Katherine, and Grace joined me at the game last night.


We sat behind the Orioles bullpen


Here's the Yankee Bullpen


The view from our seats as Corey Lidle Pitches


Another fimilar face, Kyle Farnsworth, who was with the Braves last year




Me, Niki, and Jennifer taking in the game!

Zayra was booted off of Rock Star: Supernova last night. I’m a little upset that I forgot to tape it, so I could see her terrible performance one last time. Hopefully, it will end up youtube.

Braves Update:
The Yankees weren’t the only team that lost last night, as the Braves fell to the Nationals 9-6. John Smoltz recorded his first loss in nearly two months. It was also the second straight game that saw Ryan Langerhans in center field for the Bravos. Andruw Jones was injured Monday, when he accidentally walked in Langerhans’ cleat in the clubhouse. (Details still don’t make much sense.) Apparently, Ryan has been feeling the heat, with Diaz doing so well and all. Jones was able to get a pinch hit RBI last night. Adam LaRoche hit a homerun in the 8th, his 24th of the season, but it was not enough. The Braves conclude their series with the Nationals today at RFK Stadium at 1:05 on TBS.

Braves note: Outfielder and sometimes first baseman, Scott Thorman was sent down to AAA-Richmond to make room for pitcher Lance Cormier, who started on Tuesday and is scheduled to start on Sunday. Thorman will most likely be called back up when the Braves will be able to expand their roster in September.

Games to .500: 9
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 6.5
Games behind New York Mets: 16

Random Quote: When it happened I said ‘You must really want to play, dude.” - Andruw Jones on his run in with Ryan Langerhans’ cleat via ajc.com

NASCAR Update:
Sterling Marlin has been thinking about the future. Since he’s been running so stellar since his season ending injury in the 2002 season, I couldn’t fathom why he is thinking about retirement, but apparently he is.

Giants Update:
Giants take on the Chiefs tonight at Giant Stadium. Eli Manning will be joined by back up quarterbacks Tim Hasselbeck and Rob Johnson as well as the preseason debuts of Jeremy Shockey and Tiki Barber. The game is at 8PM on Fox.

Around Sports:
The Halos and the Rangers got into a little bit of a brawl last night after Angels’ first baseman, Adam Kennedy was hit by a pitch. Adam LaRoche was hit by a pitch last night and he didn’t go charge the mound. Although, I’d imagine a brawl involving the Braves would be pretty wussy unless Bobby Cox got involved. Then watch out! Oh yeah, the Rangers beat the Angels 9-3.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Well, it’s a war of the myspace pages. Apparently the Travis Barker, Shanna Moakler divorce isn’t going so smoothly. They both have been making claims via their pages, including that neither is a good parent. Yeah, didn’t see that one coming when I was watching Meet the Barkers, but as I look back, Shanna always seemed to be in her bed, maybe that wasn’t a good sign.

T-Roy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry is out on bail after being arrested for killing a tamed bear and pretending it was killed in the wild. He faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $20,000 fine if he is found guilty. I guess someone should have just spent the 15 grand to go hunting with Chipper Jones at his ranch in Texas!

CMT will honor Reba McEntire with a two hour special featuring Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, Kelly Clarkson, Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles and more in CMT Giants. Giants is scheduled to air November 18th.

It’s a big day for birthdays; Sean Penn, Donnie Wahlberg, and Belinda Carlisle all celebrate b-days today.

Don't be afraid to leave comments if your new to the blog!

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

August 16, 2006

I spent another night watching the Phillies kick the Mets’ ass. I also went to the gym, but mostly I just watched the baseball game. Two new Phillies fan sightings last night included Chase’s Chicks (dressed in yellow with really great yellow visors) and the Wolf Pack (with you guessed it, wolf masks on). Apparently there is also a group called Utley’s Uglies, but I have yet to see them.

Tonight I’m off to Yankee Stadium to watch the Skanks take on the Orioles. It seems like just yesterday (ok like three weeks ago) that I saw Bobby Abreau and Corey Lidle in Phillies jerseys but tonight they’ll be in pin stripes, gross!

In honor of my Yankees visit, Random Quote: "My hidden talent is...woodworking" -Sal Fasano from si.com pop culture grid.

Braves Update:
The Braves faced an outstanding Pedro Astacio last night. He allowed only two hits (one by Jeff Francoeur and one by Adam LaRoche) in his first complete game in four years as the Braves fell to the Nationals 5-0. John Smoltz looks to help the Braves rebound tonight as they continue their series against the Nationals at 7:05 on FSN.

Games to .500: 8
Games behind Cincinnati Reds: 5.5
Games behind New York Mets: 16

NASCAR Update:
It’s practically official; Elliot Sadler will be in the #19 car for Michigan. Kasey Kahne alluded to his new teammate at an autograph session in Tennessee, saying he might be in the car as early as this weekend, but will be in the car in 2007. May I introduce you to the teen dream team (minus Scott Riggs of course, he’s like the fun uncle).

Around the World:
Former President Gerald Ford was admitted to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for testing and evaluation. Get well soon Mr. President.

Celebrity Tid Bits:
Puck from the Real World: San Francisco and his wife Betty welcomed a second child, Rocco Kokopelli Rainey. He joins older brother Bogart.

Trace Adkins released a new album yesterday, “Dangerous Man.” It features his new single “Swing” as well as the video version of “Honkytonk Badonkadonk.”

Steve Carrell is celebrating a birthday. The Office star turns 43.

Sorry it's short but I've been pretty busy today! Pictures up on Friday.

It’s been fun blogging with you,

Kate