double d(ion)

Adiós

2008-03-24T18:42:00.003-04:00

So long, farewell...

double d(ion) and myself are taking a break from this whole blogging thing. I am not turning my back on hockey. I have other priorities in my life right now that I am giving my attention to and unfortunately blogging about hockey isn't one of them.

I'm thankful for all that blogging has given me. I won't forget you! If you have my email, we'll still be in touch. Take care, everyone.

xo

Not-so-Super (Flames 2, Caps 3)

2008-03-12T19:10:00.002-04:00

6:30 pm: Panic sets in as I can't find the PPV on my TV. I call Rogers and the nice lady calmed me down, telling me to breathe and she looked into it for me. What I found and she did too was that Rogers was not carrying the PPV, only cable providers in the West. Boo. So she sold me on the Super Sports Pak (which also includes baseball!).

7:00pm: We get our choice between the Rog on the Flames PPV or the boys on the Comcast channel and their OvechKAM. Seriously. I choose the Rog.
First Period
Only 53 seconds in Backstrom scores, handing me the bad karma of making fun of him earlier. I announce I'm cancelling my Super Sports Pak because it's anything but Super. Soon though, dinner is handed to me and the game is somewhat forgotten as 1) I was starving and b) it was DEEEE-licious. During the first TV time-out they have Rapid Fire with Wayne Primeau. We find out that his kids like Hannah Montana; his favourite place to hang out is at the cottage on the lake and his best friend in the NHL is Marco Sturm. Awwww.... The period goes on and for most of it I'm wrapping my head around that it's the Caps in red. And then! IGGY! SCORES! On the PP near the end of the period. Whoooo!

First Intermission
Dion gets the interview at intermission and he cracks me up. He just said, "...Individual accolades come from team success," and then paused... Think it was on a script one time? Oh Dion, you're so funny. Then strength and conditioning coach Rich somebody comes up and I'm preparing myself for the news that Kipper stretches 3 hours a day (that's so 2004...) but he is showing us how to stretch. Meh. Time for chocolate, I say. Jamie Thomas is doing "The Other Side" with Chris Clark where they talk about Clark's work at the Vietnam Veterans' Wall. A little later on, Thomas asks him if Ovie changed after signing his contract and he says, "No." He compares Ovie to Iggy in that their passion is on the same level and the money is a nice bonus.

Second Period
NHL.com and the commentators now clear up that it was Kozlov who scored for the Caps - not Nicky Backstrom. Kipper makes a wicked save, just scooping it down out of the air on a shot. Wowza. Juice scores on the PP. WHOOO!! Nice pass from Iggy who was to the side of the net and passed it through a crowd in front of Kolzig. Backstrom has a shot through the crease that goes parallel along the red line and a tiny voice goes "Wonh wonh, Backstrom, wonh wonh." :) It sounds like crowd is chanting BACKSTROM SUCKS. I'm sure they're not but I can't resist making fun of him. Just for tonight. And now the Flames get another penalty. Okay, okay, I get the hint - no more jeering. I love Kipper's quick glove hand. Love it. ... And then... Some Russian phenom scores... Ties it up, 2 - 2.

Second Intermission
This is spent trying to figure out the code to add the "Read more" feature into my posts as I realize this is getting long winded. I wasn't planning on it! I swear!

Third Period
I'm fading. I know, it's horrible. Blogging is hard. :s hee hee... Gooooo FLAMES! They have the schedule up for the rest of the road trip and I get to see them! Yay for buying the Super Sports Pak! I've received harassment from Bethany on not having a Rick Nash is named Captain post. I WAS GETTING THERE. Sheesh. But now she stole the magic so here you go: Guess what! Earlier today, Rick Nash was named Captain of the CBJ! Yay Ricky! It's about time. But back to the game... Five minutes left and it's still tied. It feels like a lot of dump and chase from both sides. Both goalies seem to be doing an alright job, just like everyone else on the ice. It's kinda ho-hum. Never mind, now the Flames have to kill a penalty. COME ON. Okay, phew. No, wait, CRAP. "Ovechkin!" *searches for ANTM to be on at a later time so I can ease the pain* Well, at least it wasn't Backstrom. I guess. Sigh... Super Sports Pak, my ass. And at least Dion stopped Ovie on his empty net shot.

And that's all. Night!

400! (Game Day, Flames vs. Caps)

2008-03-12T09:56:00.004-04:00

No, I'm not expecting Iggy to score 35 goals tonight (just imagine that scenario for a second though... hehehe) but this is double d(ion)'s 400th post. Yay! There's been a recent surge of activity here at d(d) which I'm quite enjoying and yes, it probably has to do with me being off this week. I'm aiming to keep it up next week and the months coming. Things are settling down at HG's HQ.

The Flames are in some other nation's capital tonight to face Ovie and some other guys. KB of Japers' Rink contacted me and asked me to do a quick blurb on "Why the Flames will beat the Caps." Feeling like I was back in school and handed an assignment, I procrastinated on it because, well, I'm a procrastinator. Plus, I had that game to go to last night. Anyway, I sent it in and look, there it is. I haven't been around Japer's Rink in a while (or anywhere else) but I was impressed on how the boys' blog looks now - well done! My little blurb also brought out the poutine-loving Victor out of the woodwork. Watch those pants, buddy. :P

Tonight shall pit Ovie vs. Dion, sure, but more at stake? HG vs. CapsChick. Hopefully, she's well enough to engage in a little lighthearted smack talk as I will be forking out the big bucks to watch the game on PPV.

I guess I better get to work and finish up my progress reports. Until later, kiddies!

I wanna go to Barbados! (sens 4, bruins 1)

2008-03-11T22:53:00.003-04:00

Apparently it was Barbados Night before the game tonight and Sparty was decked out in a Sens themed floral shirt. Quite hilarious. All season long they have been advertising Hockey Night In Barbados where you can purchase a package (flight, hotel, etc) to watch the Sens play from Bert's Bar in Barbados. Sounds... interesting. The live web cam they showed on the big screen tonight made it sound like everyone was hammered. As I'm sure I would be. Sun and hockey though? Confusing. The only sun and hockey should be the spring time sun of playoffs.

I was excited to see Andy Ference tonight but then the plays made by one Andrej Meszaros setting up Heatley for 2 of his 3 goals won out - sorry, Smarty Pants. It was a good game. Gerber played well, stopping 29 of 30. He was on track for the good ol' SO but then the loudmouth behind us jinxed him. Way to go, loudy. There were only 8 penalties so the game went by really fast. We were on the road heading back to town mere minutes after the final whistle. Of course it had to be on a night where I don't have to worry about getting up early in the morning to work.

Best news of the night? Looks like I'm going to see the Blues next week, team of my all-time favourite Kootenay Ice player, Matt Walker. Whoo!

Belated YAY! (cgy 7, blues 3)

2008-03-11T15:31:00.002-04:00

What a wonderful game to listen to! My mind clicked on around... 11 and I remembered the game was on (Hey, it's March Break, I'm off, only procrastinating on doing my kids' progress reports). I tuned into Peter just before the first intermission and was tickled pink that the Flames were up 2-1. Hoping that I didn't jinx them, I laid back and enjoyed one of the best games I've heard in a while (ignore the fact that I haven't been paying attention).

And then! IGGY! 365! All-time goal getter for the Flames! YAY! Hearing the crowd go BONKERS for Iggy was awesome. To hear Juice and Lombo get over their 20- and 19-game scoreless drought, respectively, was a relief as well.

Kipper got a penalty after he threw the puck at the St.Louis player who got a little too close for his liking. LOVE IT.

One of the best parts too was, after seeing Legace on the bench, one of the announcers was talking about how after a goalie gets pulled they sometimes sit alone to go over what went wrong. Then the other announcer, Peter I think, says, "He just wants to be closer to the Gatorade machine." HA!

Off to the Sens game tonight to watch my favourite former Flame, Ference and his Beantown boys. I may even get my jersey lettered tonight but... we'll see.

Awww... all grown up

2008-03-06T18:08:00.003-05:00

The Flames' site has an article up about how Dion is growing as a player. See, I saw all that years ago. :P

That's all I have to say about that.

W is for Winning, it's good enough for me

2008-02-24T17:33:00.002-05:00

Yay! Flames win, beating those dastardly Wild, putting the boys in red (well, white today) on top of the Northwest Division. Whoo! Thanks to the blackout I did not see the game but I saw the score go by on the TSN ticker during the Sharks/Pens game. I napped through that and Men in Black 2 so you know... It's a lazy Sunday.

It was good to see the Sens win in OT the other night too. It's been crazy with their two SO wins and then the OT. How about a calm win in regulation? No? Okay. Thanks.

On TSN today, the panel did a mock awards ceremony for 3 categories of best screenplay (winner: Rick Nash and his undressing of the PHX d-men); best animated short (winner: J.C. Petit); and best actor (winner: Ovie). It was funny because they said Rick Nash was not there to receive his award because, "Well, he just didn't care," but then when Ovie 'won' they cut to DC and he was on a satellite feed and gave a little speech. It was cute.

Be still my heart

2008-02-21T23:18:00.003-05:00

Tonight was a night to behold. Ricky vs. the Sens. SQUEEEEEEEEEE! Really, it's quite insane. I was so excited to see him. The game went to a SO with Ricky and Nicky scoring for CBJ and no one scoring for the Sens. But I was okay with that. Hee hee... Thanks to my man for taking a bunch of pics for me as I was too busy hyperventilating, I mean, um, uh... squeeing.

Jimbo or Vandy?

2008-02-20T20:00:00.004-05:00

What should the Flames' new D-man's nickname be? The team picked up Jim Vandermeer from Philly today. Funny... I don't remember seeing him on the ice last night but upon checking the roster, he was there. Huh. I did miss seeing Gagne though, he would have been fun to watch. Guess who I didn't miss? Just guess.

Flames are on my TV tonight! Yay! Thanks, TSN. But wait - so is ANTM. Is that wrong? :P

GOOOOOOOOO Flames!

PS: Upon checking Jimbo Vandy's stats, I remembered why he seemed to stick out in my mind - I watched him play a few games when he came to my hometown as a Red Deer Rebel. Happy birthday to you, you new Flame, you. Speaking of the old days, my favourite Kootenay Ice player of all-time (see: reminiscing), Matt Walker of the St. Louis Blues, finally scored his first NHL goal.

Quick Notes

2008-02-19T23:27:00.002-05:00

Flames are up 2-0 over the 'yotes after 2 periods thanks to that awesome duo of Iggy and Dion's own PPG. Please let me wake up to good news.
Sens game tonight was up and down. Philly outplayed them in the 3rd and OT was insanity. I haven't felt like that in a long time. And the SO? Good times, good times. Thanks to my ride who is good luck when it goes to extra time - good thing we didn't leave early. :P
All teams in the OHL will wear #18 on their helmets in honour of the late Mickey Renaud.
It's fun to see Mikey C's big red head o' hair on the ice. One day, all Flames will end up here. Mwaaa haaa haaaa...
Box seats are fun.
Good night!

Flames draft pick passes

2008-02-18T20:57:00.002-05:00

My condolences go the family, friends and teammates of Flames draft pick Mickey Renaud. According to the Flames' site and CP, Renaud collapsed suddenly today and attempts at resuscitation were unsuccessful. He was captain of the OHL's Windsor Spitfires.

I am at a loss for words. I'm trying to think of something to say about how it puts things in perspective but I just don't know.

Three words...

2008-02-13T08:58:00.002-05:00

three words to describe the flames win tonight :
dion, dion, dion.... you must be so proud....

Thanks, wi. And yes, yes I am. Tying goal and the assist on Iggy's OT winner? Damn straight. The 10:30pm PST start time was just a little too late for me last night so I missed listening to the game.

On a whim, I checked the Flames stats and uh... What's up with Lombardi this year? I'm counting on Leanne and wi to give me a rundown on why he's only tied for sixth in points. Or wait - maybe I'm just nicely surprised by Dion having 39 points.

I watched the first two periods of the Sens game last night and am extremely pleased to see Mike Commodore in Sens red. They interviewed him during one of the breaks and let him know that someone was in the crowd with a big red wig and jersey. His reaction? "Already?" Hahahahahaha awesome.

Sens are in NJ for tonight and I'm sure the Ookies at IPB will have some hilariously horrible things to say. Flames are in LA on Friday. Goooooo road trips!

Hockey Day, part two (live-ish updates)

2008-02-09T13:51:00.000-05:00

1:45pm Tuning in a bit late to HDiC, I caught the feature on the Toronto Blue Jays' Matt Stairs. I like watching Stairs while in TO - he seemed like he was out there for fun and still having fun, turning 40 this year. He just signed a two-year extension with the Jays so that's cool AND! He's a good Canadian boy, er, man. Anyhow, the feature was how during the off-season he is an assistant coach for a high school team in Bangor, Maine where he played hockey as a teen. It was neat seeing how he loves both sports and takes the time to give back to the community.

Now they are talking to Devin Smith, Chairman for the NHLPA's Goals and Dreams organization. Since that started, the NHLPA has donated over 9500 sets of hockey equipment. Jon Sim of the Islanders (? I tuned out for a second) is also there who is from New Glasgow, NS.

2:00pm Glen Metropolit, I'm learning, grew up in Regent Park in TO and now plays for the Bruins. For HDiC, he's back on the rink that he grew up looking at from the 13th floor. He says he was the good kid, on the border of everything that would go on in the park. It was quite sweet, actually. He wants to tell the kids to, "Keep their heads up. Never give up. Never give up." Awww... *sniff*

7:15pm Uh... so... I've found out that thanks to timeshifting, I can watch the Sens game AND the Flames game. So far in the switching of channels, I just missed the Dion/Moreau fight and a Spezza goal. Spezz to Heater and Alfie: "Gee, guys, I'm really glad you're back in the lineup. *giggles*" and then he proceeds to get ANOTHER one. I'm wishing I had picture in picture right about now. Apparently now, all of the Calgary D is in the penalty box. Good job, boys.

7:19pm In stereo from my couch: "Jesus!" Alfie scores and they go to Price putting on his helmet on the bench. Wonh wonh... :P 3 goals on 4 shots. Niiiiiiice. The crowd is now chanting, "Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!"

7:22pm Godard drops the gloves with Greene. And now there are 7589324843875 guys in the Flames sin bin. On another note: If you're bored, go watch the Joe Juneau story about the work he is doing for a community in Nunavut. It's pretty neat-o. He's one smart cookie.

7:31pm A little bit of hustle in front of the Flames net gets me all excited for nothing. Um... Tangs? You have to deliver on those shots. But I'm not complaining. Same sort of thing in front of Emery, too. This is working out to be quite exciting. Soon, I'll bust out the cheesecake.

7:44pm WHOOOOOOO! Oldie Nolan! Dion's shot from the blue line ricochets off a few guys, finally going in off of Nolan. Yahoo!

7:46pm First period in Ottawa is over. The Flames game looks like it's going to be rough and tumble with a good intensity from the boys in red. Keep it up.

7:48pm Crowd is hollering after Nolan gets hit and takes a second to get up.

7:49pm First period in Calgary it over.

8:08pm Both games are back on and my piece of cheesecake was too big.

8:11pm Flames PP... Stortini is mad. Suck it up, it's not your penalty.

8:12pm WHOOOOO! DION! Well done, boys! Oh, that shot is INSANE.

8:13pm That McDonald's commercial with the little goalie is still funny.

8:14pm The chimes when CBC goes from the play to a replay are still annoying.

8:20pm During the channel flipping, Heater scores! Whoo! From Spezz and Alfie. Hmmm... my Sens fan says, "Think the big line is producing tonight?" Maybe, eh? :P

8:26pm OLDIE NOLAN!!!!! WHOOOOOO!!!!!!! An awesome shot from Nolan from the point and a trip from Garon means a goal! Yayayayayayayayay!

8:27pm WHOOOOOOO! SPEZZA! First career hat trick! And I saw it! Yayayayayayayay!

8:37pm A nice, nice pass from Tangs to Iggy results in a non-goal. It would have been sooo pretty. Oh wells. Fisher is agitating in Ottawa and Neil ends up in the middle of something so now they are planning brunch tomorrow during some time in the box. And now the CGY period is over.

8:40pm A change in pillow situation and Sparty Cat toy being placed in the pocket of the Sens pillow wrecks Emery's shut-out bid. Sorry, Ray.

8:42pm Ottawa period over.

9:03pm Whooo! Alfie scores! Nicely done. I was just thinking how during the intermission, we were watching the new version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and I love watching movies on TV so much that I was thinking about if it would still be on when the games are over. Hee hee...

9:05pm Ottawa fans are currently taunting the Montreal fans by throwing "Ole, ole, ole, ole" back in their faces. Again I say: Wonh wonh...

9:13pm Flames have outshot the Greasers 25-9. Wowzers.

9:18pm Congrats to Dion on his Gordie Howe hat trick tonight. Random thought: Why does the NHL make St. Patrick's Day clothing in selected teams? Do they poll the available cities and if the population is Irish enough, they make the shirts?

9:24pm Fuuuuuuuuuck..... BAH. BAH. BAH. Guess what happened... Grrr...

9:27pm Redden drops the gloves with one of the MTL brothers and rocks his clock.

9:28pm IGGY! SCORES! WHOOOOOOO! YAYAYAYAYAY IGGY! And now Godard and Stortini are on the ice together... Interesting. They seem to be grunting at each other but nothing happens off the face-off. Oh, wait, more grunting after a few seconds of play. Back in Ottawa, they are showing the Redden punch again. Yikes. He's making his point that he wants to stay here. :D

9:37pm And that's that. Ottawa over Montreal 6-1; Calgary over Edmonton 4-1. All in all, an evening well done. Night all, time for a movie because I don't care about that late game. :P

Hockey Day

2008-02-09T08:55:00.000-05:00

I'm looking forward to Hockey Day today. When I was younger, one of my favourite books was A Day in the Life of Canada so this is kinda along the same lines. To see hockey celebrated is a wonderful thing. Being from a small town where hockey is IT, I like seeing the community behind future NHLers get recognized. I didn't know what was up with Winkler but this quote pretty much sums it up:

The folks in Winkler are preparing for a whirlwind of activity leading up to Hockey Day In Canada but they're ready, partly because they've had good practice in celebrating hockey in recent years.
"Within a 12-month period, Dustin Penner won the Stanley Cup, Eric Fehr won the Calder Cup, my brother Blaine Neufeld was a member of the Vancouver Giants that won the Memorial Cup and GVC won the Provincial Championship," Brendan Neufeld said. - nhl.com

My Flames jersey didn't work last time so I think I may have to forgo it but do you think other team wear would have the same jinx? Hmmm... My Sens jersey worked in their 5-4 win on Thursday though.

Whatever my attire, I'm ready to curl up on my couch with my Flames blanket (Thanks, Mom) and a box o' chocolates. Go Flames! Or else Leanne is gonna getcha. Go Sens!

Eeeeee! = Dion signs

2008-02-06T16:35:00.000-05:00

SIX YEARS!

Sutter confirmed reports that the contract averages $6.5 million per season for a total of $39 million. - Flames site

Oh and I was going to listen to the game last night but I checked the score and it was 2-0 PHX already so I thought, "Why bother?" Well I guess I should have bothered because the boys came back (according to the Flames RSS feed it was unbelievable!) Yay to Dion on his two goals and yay to Iggy for tying it up. AND! YAY! A SO WIN!

The end.
For now. I might think of something else later.

Flames 0, That other Albertan team 5

2008-02-05T07:03:00.000-05:00

And signing Cujo was a good idea because why again?

Snowy Saturday = Good Hockey Day

2008-02-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

What a hap-hap-happy day here in HGland! Hockey all day! I have no preference in the early HNIC at 2pm with the Habs facing the Isles but it's always nice to watch a game where you just don't care. Next up is the Sens versus TO which I will be watching in the company of a die-hard Sens fan AND a die-hard Laffs fan. If I don't return it means I lost my life in the cross-fire. I was going to wear my Sens jersey tonight but since those two goofs will be slinging the trash back and forth, I think I'll go neutral and show up in my Flames jersey in preparation for the late game.

I can tell I'm getting back into the hockey mindset because the superstitions are kinda showing up. Well maybe not superstitions so much as, "It's game day! Must wear team apparel!" Another way I can tell is that I've added back some of the blogs I used to read to my daily rounds.

I messed around with a mashup but then I got bored so it isn't as wonderful as it could have been.

Here's hoping Iggy can get a goal tonight and work his way up the standings with Alfie and Kovalchuk out for a few games. Don't read that as I'm glad Alfie's hurt, I just want to see my OG captain move up.

Happy Saturday all!

Kinda made it!

2008-01-31T17:25:00.000-05:00

I'm so happy! I lasted for two whole periods before I bailed on the boys. I probably could have stayed up but 6:30 comes waaaaaaay too early for me.

I could tell that hockey has been in the background for me because there was a WTF?! moment when they said something about Roenick and my thought was, "He still plays?" Anyway. I haven't really thought about Oldie Nolan much and his being in the Flames uni but after last night? Um... I think I'm okay with it. His fight? Holy crap - must have visited the fountain of youth before the game. Yay to Preems (HE HAS KIND EYES!) for scoring and yay to Dion on his PPG.

I'm looking forward to the Sens game tonight as they welcome Boston to town. I heart my Andy.

Okay. Taking it slow.

2008-01-29T16:52:00.001-05:00

Hello all. Do people even still come by here? If you do, thank you for putting up with me.

So a couple of things on my mind, number one being the feathers that Ray Emery ruffles here in this city. Dude. GROW UP. I am not sure how someone who conducts himself in his manner still has a job. In any other professional capacity, I'm sure that some sort of action would have been taken. Is it because of the fans and media that athletes get a shrug off? Well that sucks. One guy on the Team 1200 brought up that he should be sent down to Bingo to remember what it's like to not live the first-class life but the co-host asked if you would want "that virus amongst the kids," which is true too. It's quite interesting to watch it happen here.

I watched the All-Star weekend events a bit and was so glad to see Iggy there since he missed last year due to injury. It was also kinda nice to not see Crosby for the only reason of being reminded that there are other guys in the league. I'm sorry he's missing it due to being hurt though. A lot of guys were not there but again - refreshing.

The Flames site has a rundown on the second half of the season (which I will be studying to catch up heeeeeee) that is interesting with stats and whatnot but this made me laugh: And, just in case you were wondering, there are 16 Canadians, four Americans, three Swedes and one Finn on the team. Really? There's a Finn? :)

Oh..... pizza

2007-12-20T21:33:00.000-05:00

Remember how I used to avoid pizza because of it's bad luck? Yeah. Well. It followed me and has infected others. At 5:49, I jinxed the Sens in their game in Atlanta and CC's game of Habs vs. Caps (which really broke her heart. Damn these double loves.).

HG: i ordered a pizza
CC: pizza??
HG: yes pizza. i think that i'm okay. i don't think it works. the pizza thing. or maybe it does and i've fucked it all up
CC: who knows
HG: not me

I guess I know now, huh? Baaaaaaah. Good thing it wasn't tomorrow for the Flames vs. Dallas. Bright side of all this? Only 0.5 day of work left!

You can put it in the win column

2007-12-18T21:39:00.001-05:00

How about them apples? A 3-1 win over CBJ makes it 6 (yes, that's SIX!) road wins in a row! Apparently, it's some sort of NHL record, tying Boston, Detroit aaaaaaaannnddd... some other team. Oh, wait, here you go:

The Flames became just the fourth NHL team to win six consecutive games on a road trip (the Flames won five in regulation time, one via a shootout). Only three teams in NHL history had won six consecutive games on one road trip (of any length): the 1971-72 Bruins, the 1982-83 Flyers and the 2001-02 Red Wings. Each of those teams won every game on a six-game road trip. - Flames site

I'm pretty sure that's not our David.

What a nice treat to have the Flames win, the Sens win AND it not be late late late. I am really coming to love listening to Peter on the radio.

I'm interested to see the Western Conference All-Star vote update tomorrow. Last time I checked, Iggy was 3rd amongst forwards with 124,337 votes and Dion was 2nd amongst defencemen with 170,477 votes.

All's good in HGland

2007-12-17T20:19:00.000-05:00

Please excuse the change in the outward appearance of d(d). It's being worked on.

Next order of business in HGland: IGGY! As CC says, "So smiley in his #1 stardom!" Yay for my captain and his points-getting wonderfulness. Not only was the Flames' winning on the road (!!!!!) crazy awesome, Iggy's hat trick and Juice's hat trick and Dion's five assists in that Tampa were outstanding. Add that to Dion's GWG in Carolina and the end total of a five game win streak on the road (!!!!!), it was a fantastic week here in HGland.

And add my other team's spanking of Atlanta on Saturday night to make it golden. I must say that the Sens killing off the Corvo/Heatley penalties was well done and then for the two aforementioned to come smoking out of the box and make maybe the prettiest play I've seen live all year? Niiiiiiiiiice.

Go vote, kids.

I'm currently having my first experience with NHL TV Online right now. It's a free game of the Wings vs. the Caps. It's nice to have hockey on my computer, even if it's choppy and the sound goes in and out.

Need a laugh? Like Guitar Hero?

Too funny. I like how Ken King shows up for the finale. Oh Pay-Per-View crew...

Wow.

2007-12-14T07:13:00.001-05:00

I don't know what that was last night but it was AWESOME.

9-6 win over Tampa IN Tampa? Sweet.

YAY!!!!

Happy Holidays, Earth!

2007-12-08T09:10:00.000-05:00

The NHL's environmental conscience (and my favourite former Flame), Andrew Ference is once again bringing attention to an issue that I don't really hear much about but know that it's there - carbon emissions. In partnership with David Suzuki, Ference and the NHLPA are encouraging players to buy back their emissions that are incurred with the hours of travel they put in over a season - read the article. But really, if Andy Pants told me anything, I'd probably listen. Hee hee.

BFF?

2007-12-06T19:41:00.000-05:00

On tonight's game:

Crosby was also looking ahead to renewing acquaintances with Flames defenceman Dion Phaneuf. The two had physical and verbal battles during tryouts and practices as teammates with the Canadian junior team in both 2004 and 2005. Prior to Thursday, they'd met only once as NHL players when Calgary beat the host Penguins 3-2 on Dec. 3, 2005. "He was a physical defenceman and someone who didn't like to get beat and I'm pretty competitive myself," Crosby said. Added Phaneuf: "I definitely consider him a friend, but when you're on the ice, there are no friends." - tsn.ca

Sid the Kid and Dion? Friends? REALLY? Does this mean they hang out with Ovie too? The rookie class getting together for tea and cookies once a year is a funny picture although it's probably more like booze (beer for the Canadian boys and wodka for Ovie) and a few rounds of Guitar Hero 3.

I'm hoping to catch the game tonight and that it's not blacked out. So far, so good. I'm getting the pre-game edition of Connected. Everyone seems so hyped about this game and I know it's because of the arrival of Sidney in Western Canada. I have mixed feelings about it all. I realize that he's an excellent ambassador for the league; is personable with the fans; can play like nobody's business and just about anyone would love to have him on their team but I have to admit, I'm a little tired of hearing about him. I know it'll pass. I'll just hang in there.

Oh - hang on - FUCKING SPORTSNET BLACKED IT OUT. Motherfucking asshat bastards taking away my small pleasures... Now I'm just stuck, forlornly looking at the stupid Rogers Sportsnet programming is not available in this region at this time message. Good thing I have some of this (Sherry - have you had some?) and I have my girl, CC, giving me play by play.

I was wandering around the mall before work today (okay, it was just Zellers but it's the only thing open at 8am) and I found this! FINALLY!

Dear Santa... :P

What are YOU doing here?

2007-12-04T21:38:00.000-05:00

The -Ookies at IPB have posted a questionnaire regarding blogging and have requested responses. What's yours? Feel free to post and link back to them. I thought this a timely topic as I am in the midst of declaring, " 'The time has come,' the walrus said," and finding a picture of a cheesy gold Flames watch (catch my drift?). We'll see if this helps the decision making process.

1. What was your motivation for starting blogging? Has that changed at all in the time you’ve been blogging?

I needed an outlet for my newfound Flames obsession when I first started ye olde d(d). It was at a time when I was home a lot and didn’t have much else to do except surf the ‘net all day, every day. I also felt I had a place in the new side of blogging - female hockey fans having a voice. When I started, the only other blogs written by women that I could find were Jordi’s Girls Don’t Love Hockey, Heather C.’s so.very.obsessed and the girls at Hot Oil. There weren’t many Flames blogs either so I had double d(uty) *snicker* going on.

My motivation has changed. I’ve been through ups and downs with the blog from posting many times a day to barely getting a post out every few weeks. I’ve been having such a hard time lately that I’ve been thinking of retiring the blog. But we’ll see.

2. What do you think your blog contributes to the hockey conversation?

I think at it’s heyday it offered a hilarious look at one fangirl’s obsession with her team - the ups and downs of me believing what I did had a direct impact on the team (pizza, anyone?) and the mis-adventures of the HGcopter.

3. What do you want to get out of the blogs you read?

I want to be amused while catching up on other teams around the league. I enjoy well-written posts with a good dose of humour thrown in.

4. What determines which blogs you read and which you don’t?

I would say that I’ve stuck with the blogs I started reading when I first started like the ones by CapsChick (AVftCS), Sherry (Scarlett Ice) and Margee (SportSquee). Then HLOG was born and that is still a daily read. I enjoy the blogs written by the girls because over time I’ve found they have the same oddball sense of humour that I have. I used to read quite a few others but times have changed and I have less time so I cut it down (sorry boys).

5. How important is the issue of gaining press access to you as a blogger?

Well... I can see for someone who is in the town of their team and could control themselves in a professional manner, I say YAY! Go for it! I thoroughly enjoy CC’s accounts of her trips to the Caps games in a professional capacity. I know for myself that I would be a melted mess of HG on the floor, unable to form a coherent question because I would be so excited!

6. To what extent do you feel accountable for the content of your blog?

Of course I’m accountable for what is on my blog. Like Katebits, I’m goofy and like Amy, the starting point is usually something from MSM. I do fear the evil PB label so I try to make it all very obviously tongue-in-cheek. See: Fangirl vs. PB SuperPost.

7. How concerned are you about the authority and accountability of the blogs you read? Do you find it difficult to judge the authority and accountability of the blogs you read?

After being in this crazy blogosphere for over a year now, I think I can tell after a few posts what’s legit or not. It’s true that the community will call BS on anyone who thinks they are above everything. I’d like to think of myself as a well-informed fan so if something sounds fishy, I am pretty sure I’d be able to tell.

8. What value, if any, do you think blogging brings to the NHL?

I think it’s brought fans together from all over the world. I’m grateful for that as I got to meet and hang out with Jordi, Sherry, Leanne (open.ice.hits), Steph, Elly... CC has been with me through a lot lately and watch out world the day we are in the same room. The lovely ladies here at IPB have been there too.

I think it’s also bringing a new voice to the NHL. Using HNIC’s recent feature as an example, more people in the league are becoming aware that there is a movement afoot that’s watching them closely and ready to praise or scold at a moment’s notice.

Ever have one of those days?

2007-11-26T18:39:00.000-05:00

You know... like when you want to post but you're not sure what but then something just comes along? Enjoy.

Dion Phaneuf's air Guitar is broken!! - Watch more free videos

Is this still my team?

2007-11-24T14:16:00.000-05:00

Since when does w-i-n-g-e-r spell defenseman?

An experiment in 3-D
Calgary coach Mike Keenan is not shy about juggling lines, that much we know. On Thursday he tried something totally different, placing three defenceman out on a second period power play. With Anders Eriksson and Robyn Regehr manning the points, Dion Phaneuf was let loose as a power forward to crash, bang and get in front of the net. Consider the experiment a success as Phaneuf went behind the Hawks net and backhanded a pass to Jarome Iginla who tapped home his 13th of the season from the doorstep to tie the game 1-1. The formation was used again late in the second with Phaneuf getting off one of his rocket blasts from the half boards that nearly fooled goalie Nikolai Khabibulin. "He gave us some energy, some compete up front on the power play," said head coach Mike Keenan. (source: calgaryflames.com)

So I guess I'm taking this shift as a sign that it actually might be time to start paying attention. To take a step in that direction, I have finally re-bookmarked the Flames' MSM sites. Yes, it's true.

I was looking forward to watching the game tonight but noooooo CBC decided that some other Albertan team should get the late slot and heaven forbid the early game not be one of these Eastern teams. Not that I'm really complaining but I was planning on watching the Sens game live tonight but there was a ticket switch for a game in December so I'm now going to be watching on the TV. Maybe I'll have to find my way to this pub that has TVs in the booth (and really good hot wings).

I know I've been out of the loop (and I'll stop saying that when I'm back in it) but what's the deal with Mark Smith? Has he played at all or is he too busy trying out different combos of hair dye?

Oh yeah, a title would help

2007-11-18T02:43:00.000-05:00

I don't know what part of me thought that I should get the cable guy to come Sunday morning between 8 and 11 made more sense than Saturday afternoon between 2 and 5... Maybe the part of me that isn't in touch with my hockey soul. Anyway. I listened to the Fan 960 stream and was chatting with CapsChick who was watching on her Centre Ice Online feed. We quickly figured out that her feed was a good 5 minutes faster than mine. For example:

HG: every time peter gets excited, i do too but then i remember that i can't until you do
CC: WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
CONROY
CONNNNIE
CRAIGY
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
HG: LIKE THAT!
CC: ahahaha, that was timed perfectly
HG: no kidding!
CC: assists from iggy and tangs
HG: whoooo!

YAY! SQUEE!
It made my night fun! And so did learning this neat scrolling text trick! No, really, it made up for the "game" that the Sens played tonight.

Wow. It's really late. Sweet dreams, everyone...

the DIMPLES!

Finally

2007-11-14T19:56:00.000-05:00

Yay! The Flames pulled a win off last night over Minnesota ending their 5 game losing streak. I was kinda hoping their tumble would be directly correlated to my health but apparently not. Maybe if I start paying more attention to them... Maybe this is their payback... Good news then: I have caved to immense pressure and have ordered real TV - nothing fancy, just basic cable but at least I will get CBC to watch a few games and Sportsnet to check out the highlights. That's all for now...

Ack!

2007-11-07T18:29:00.000-05:00

Today I was driving through a parking lot and my eye caught an ad for some watch and guess who was wearing said watch? That's right, my boy was. IN OTTAWA. He's everywhere! Suddenly my morning was all bright and sunny since I hadn't opened up the laptop in a few days and without real TV, I didn't know that Dion was hurt. Sportsnet is saying out indefinitely but TSN is reporting he's probable for the games on Thursday. Get better - Batman bandaids are on the way.

Congrats to the five Flames named to the All-Star Ballot: Jarome Iginla, Daymond Langkow (!), Miikka Kiprusoff, Robyn Regehr and Dion Phaneuf.

Class of 2007 - 2008

2007-11-03T22:52:00.000-04:00

I'd like to congratulate the class of this year on graduating elementary school. Watch out for those big kids in junior high.

It looks like it was, "Surprise! We're going to Sears Portrait Studio today! Get on the bus!" Wow. Who knew 12 year olds could grow a beard?

Wandering eye

2007-11-03T22:14:00.000-04:00

How many of you will pay attention to a non-Flames game because you know a former Flame is playing? I was looking forward to watching the Ottawa vs. Boston game tonight just to see Andy Ference play. Upon tuning in just towards the end of the second period I missed the goals so imagine my surprise on glancing up to see Chucky Kobasew as the interview, being the man with the two Boston goals. Is it just me or did he hardly score in Calgary? I'm sure he did when he was able to stop before the end boards.

Speaking of former Flames and crazy "I'm-going-to-the-net-no-matter-what-and-I-just- may-score" players, I love watching Shean Donovan play here. His presence on the ice is noticed on just about every shift.

I'm enjoying this road trip for the Flames as I have the game on the "radio" and am pretty sure that I'll be able to stay awake until the end although I'm not too excited about it thus far (fucking Gaborik).

Okay. Well, that's it. Stupid Bronco Radishvoicebox. Oooo... wait! A fight! Nystrom and somebody... and it's over. Sigh. Oh wells.

PS. Your friend and mine, Leland Irving is in town as the Silvertips play the Hitmen. Anyone going?

Yay!

2007-10-31T20:44:00.000-04:00

I think that I may need to start listening and falling to Flames' games more often. I was informed that it was 1-0 right before I went to bed. It was 2-0 once I got the Fan 960 going and 3-0 a few minutes later. I snuggled into my covers, ready to listen to an ass-waxing (thanks, Mom, for that terminology) by the Flames. Imagine my disgust when I woke up at 3:30am and the game was long over and there were 5432490809 commercials on the radio. I was too out of it to stay awake and wait for the real people to come back which allowed me to be pleasantly surprised when I turned on the news and YAY! 5-1! Whoo!

Congrats to Eric Nystrom on his first NHL goal.

I also think that since I dressed up as a Flames' player for Hallowe'en at work yesterday helped. One of my kids at work looked at me and said, "Oh! Look! Hockeygirl!" How did he know? He is only 3! Ahahahahaha

On the Flamelicious news front, junior d(d) reporter LombardiGirl18 spotted this tidbit and sent it along: Are you a Kiprusoffarian? I'm so glad to see that people still have a sense of humour out there in the hockey world.

Congrats to former Flame Roman Hamrlik on reaching 1000 games played.

I'll take a #34, size small.

2007-10-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

Kipper is in it for the long haul. THANK GOODNESS. Darryl announced today that the best interview in the league has signed Kipper to a multi-year contract extension. TSN is reporting the deal is somewhere in the area of $35 million over 6 six years. I think it might be safe to get that #34 jersey.

PS. Congrats to the Red Sox on their World Series win. I'd like to think that my watching of Fever Pitch on Saturday helped out in the whole karmic sense.

Sad squees

2007-10-25T16:41:00.000-04:00

This is the kind of thing I miss without real TV. I mean, I guess I could scour the sports news websites but that would be too much work. I have bagels to eat and stitches to cross and and and... okay, fine. I'll try harder. Just for you! Yes, YOU! To celebrate, I'm wearing my "I heart Kipper" shirt.

PS. Is it just me or are the Flames getting waaaaaaay more PPGs this year so far?

PPS. If you see something wonderfully Flamealicious in your web travels, email me.

Hahahahahahahahahahahaha

2007-10-16T17:36:00.000-04:00

*gasp* hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!! PLAYERS TO USE HEATED BLADES? HAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!

Thermablades use a rechargeable battery and a microprocessor within each skate blade to maintain a temperature of 5 C. The warm blade increases the thickness of the water layer between the blade and the ice surface, and the company says its tests have shown this reduces gliding friction and starting resistance for skaters.

''The NHL is very interested in confirming the data provided by Therma Blade Inc. to establish the safety and reliability of the blade under NHL game conditions and we have agreed to allow a small group of players to test these blades in practices over the next few weeks,'' says Kris King, the NHL's senior manager of hockey operations. - tsn.ca

Oh man... that's funny... Just about as funny as McCabe scoring the GWG in OT last night...

Flames vs. Avs tonight - here's hoping the luck that is in Colorado hasn't reached the hockey rink yet.

PS. I didn't get the Chef Boyardee. I couldn't do it. It would be a waste. I feel good that I saw it and shared it with you in photo-form. If there was an HLOG convention here, you know it would be on the menu.

The secret is in the kitchen

2007-10-13T15:44:00.001-04:00

I am willing to bet that the 15 minutes or so I spent exclaiming over the NHL shaped Chef Boyardee at Costco last night, wondering what it would be like to pick out all the Flames shapes and eat the rest TOTALLY led to the Flames' OT win in Dallas.

Fame!

2007-10-10T16:53:00.000-04:00

Fames? FAMES? I don't know whether to laugh, cry or live forever...

Tonight, the boys are in Detroit which means I should be able to stay awake for the game. Is this the return of the "a-roonie-doonie" action?

Go Flames! I have decided to support wi on her positive action-ness and put aside my irrational-ness until further notice.

Why? WHY?

2007-10-07T00:48:00.001-04:00

Is it too early to get irrationally angry? Yes? Too bad. I made sure to drink lots of coffee this afternoon so I could stay awake for the game tonight. I can't decide if it's best to listen live as they seem like they are coming back or too just sleep through it. Sigh... It sounded amazing and CC gave me moral support. Oh well... No need to panic yet. Right? I mean, Peter just informed me that the Flames haven't lost the first two games of the season since 2002.

Does the point matter? Let's say yes.

Okay. I'm not going to get mopey. La la la... happy thoughts... Sens win. I called a 1-0 win and was off by one. Yay to Gerber for the shut out. Yay to Meszaros for his first short-handed goal. Caps win. Um... Yay to Langkow for his crazy good start... Yay for pumpkin pie... Yay optimism?

Boomshakalaka?

2007-10-05T07:12:00.000-04:00

After a huge sushi dinner and snoozing through the Sens game, I streamed the Fan960 in bed thanks to the joys and wonders of wireless. I didn't make it very long but I heard the Briere (who is listed as "Danny" on the Flames new fancy scoring summary) goal and the Knuble goal, drifting off to sleep angry. I woke up to Peter throwing to Rob Kerr (is he the official fight announcer or something?) yelling, "Boomshakalaka, boomshakalaka," as Godard apparently beat the snot out of someone. I went back to sleep happy. A little while later, I subconsciously heard that the score was 2-2 and still slept happy. Somewhere in the early morn with the stream still going, I was informed that the Flames lost 3-2. Sighing dejectedly, I closed the computer and slept the rest of the night.

Upon checking the scoresheet this morning, I was pleasantly surprised by Daymond Langkow's two PP goals, helped out by Dion! Yay! I see that they were stars #2 and #3. I take my happiness from the small things. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Saturday night and a win for the Flames (and the Sens).

Happy New Year!

2007-10-03T17:40:00.000-04:00

Wheeooo! All day today in the back of my mind was an insane little voice on a loop saying, "HockeystartstonighthockeystartstonightFORREAL." I only wish I had a) more energy to celebrate and 2) a way to watch the games. Can you believe that on my fake/pirated/stolen/something cable that I don't get CBC? I mean, REALLY? Sheesh. ANYway... Here's to a new season! Cheers, my friends.

Mish-mash

2007-09-30T13:25:00.000-04:00

This morning while I was enjoying a tasty breakfast at Cora's (Leanne: I alternate between the cinnamon brioche and the april '89), my team for the Hlog Suckitude Pool was being autodrafted. I must say, I am not sure how sucky they are going to be...
I think it's interesting how I ended up with Dion, almost as if the leprechauns inside my computer knew to take him regardless.

Last night I took in some lovely Sens/Habs action and am pleased to say that I called the OT win for the Sens at dinner when predictions were thrown out. I don't care if the score wasn't right, I should still get credit for the OT.

No matter where they go, I have a soft spot for former Flames. Crazy Shean Donovan was out in true Crazy Shean Donovan form. I was so pleased to see that Roman Hamrlik was given an 'A' for Montreal. I also still have room for Andrej Meszaros too after watching him in Vancouver. I'm sure the list will go on and on as time does the same.

I'm sorry I forgot to take my camera and capture Jordi's Mikey K as he did score for her. Please don't hurt me. *hugs*

I think that's all for today. Happy Hockey Season, everyone!

Oh, so THIS is that "hockey" you speak of

2007-09-23T16:48:00.001-04:00

Senators vs. Captials, Sept. 20
Preseason Action

It was a bit strange, yet wonderful, wearing a different shade of red to a hockey game and being a tad conflicted in cheering when the home team scored. By the Sens' 5th goal, I think I may have gotten my arms up in the air.

I'm not sure how many texts went back and forth between Canada's capital and America's capital but there were a lot. Based on CC's description of Olie, I was sure he was going to go ballistic after this play. To my immense disappointment, he did not. Oh well...

Anyway. It felt good to be back in a rink. I must wear longer socks next time because my ankles got cold. The things you forget over time...

What is this "hockey" you speak of?

2007-09-19T21:48:00.000-04:00

Apparently somewhere out there, the pre-season has started. Huh. I guess I'll have to venture out there and see for myself. For my two girls, Sherry (who needs to get her butt back up here) and CapsChick (who needs to get better ay-sap), I will be taking plenty o' photos as I witness the Sens vs. Caps tomorrow night. Since I have Leanne (whom I miss horribly thanks to grad school and work) in CGY as my eyes and ears, I figured I could repay her in some roundabout way by being the same for the other two. You know, in some sort of 'pay it forward' scheme. Or something.

So yeah. I'm sure you will be hearing about the Sens a little more now. I feel good in having an Eastern team and a Western team. I anticipate/rue the day the Flames and Sens meet in the Cup final.

Happy hockey, everyone! Whoo!

PS. I'd like to put out an APB on Finny. Where are you, woman?

I guess I should weigh in

2007-09-04T21:39:00.000-04:00

The Calgary Flames unveiled their new jersey today. I was all prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions once I saw it. I started to complain about it but then was reminded it doesn't matter what it looks like as long as they play hockey. Logic schmogic. I came back to the Flames website to take a second look at the unveiling gallery and really decide on how I felt about it...

............ I'm sorry, what? New jersey?

Excitement is building

2007-09-03T20:03:00.000-04:00

In just a few weeks, pre-season hockey starts. After a summer sabbatical, it will be nice to get back into hockey. I know, I know, I've said that, what, three times in the last three posts?

Anyway. The HQ of HG has moved cities to our nation's capital and the hockey opportunities here are so much more appealing than those in d(d)'s previous location. TO can suck it. I am looking forward to heading to the Sens' pre-season's games - any requests, Sherry? I'm hoping to get out and see the rookies too since some of them are former Kootenay Ice players and we all know I have a soft spot for the boys in blue. Interesting side note - Cory Clouston was named head coach of the Binghamton Senators recently, moving on from his position of head coach for the Kootenay Ice. Even more interesting - the previous former Kootenay Ice head coach was Ryan McGill who is currently the head coach of the Baby Flames. This Ice connection keeps following me around...

A short story by HG

2007-08-30T21:46:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time a princess received a video game console from one of her jesters. This console came with the most important game in the history of her sparkly land - NHL 07. The princess was excited and played her first game with her official team taking on CBJ. Even with her foot stomping, Lord Dion of Lava and his Flames lost 6-4 and the princess was not happy. Trying again, she played WSH vs. TB and turned it off as Sir Vinny the Neck was losing horribly to Lord Clymes. To console herself, she turned to the land's official communication device and found a bird waiting. The end.

WHAT!? [insert shrieking here]

2007-08-28T16:54:00.000-04:00

WHAT! NO! WHY? WHAT! NO!

The Globe and Mail reports that defenceman Mark Giordano has left the Calgary Flames and signed with Moscow Dynamo of the Russian Super League.

According to the Globe, Giordano was offered a two-way contract with the Flames but chose instead to sign with Dynamo for $800,000 US.

Giordano, 23, played in 48 NHL games last season and scored seven goals and 15 points. The Flames signed the Toronto native as a free agent in 2004.

Files from the Globe and Mail were used for this report.
- tsn.ca

Boo. BOOO.

Old is new again or something

2007-08-23T15:48:00.001-04:00

So the Super Series is fast approaching with your friend and mine, Leland Irving, as one of Canada's goalies. TSN.ca's poll (where you too can vote!) has Leland as the front runner.

To be perfectly honest, I am not sure who the other two are and I'm too lazy to go look for the purpose of this post. What I really want to share is the song "Fireworks" by The Tragically Hip, you know the one...

If there's a goal that everyone remembers it was back in ol' 72
We all squeezed the stick and we all pulled the trigger
And all I remember was sitting beside you
You said you didn't give a fuck about hockey
And I never saw someone say that before
You held my hand and we walked home the long way
You were loosening my grip on Bobby Orr

Anyway, I sent this to Jordi, hoping to bring some hockey light to her and she says, It's hard to hear his words... it's all "Balafbbaslala FIREWORKSSSS." Riiiiiight... I still love her though even if she's getting old and needs a hearing trumpet. (Okay. I have to be honest. I had to Google what that was called because I knew it wasn't a cone. I love how I can take the time to do that and not take the time to find out about the other two goalies which I'm sure I could learn about if I read this whole article. Priorities, you know?)

Oh yeah - New Jersey on September 4. I knew this but somehow when Leanne pinged me with it, I was confused... What? She's going to NJ? The Devils are in for a pre-season game? Then... DING! I'm a little skeptical of how it's going to look but at least it gives me something to look forward to.

Greetings.

2007-08-21T10:53:00.000-04:00

Hellllllooooooooooooooo!

It's double d(ion)'s first birthday on Friday and since I'll be on the road for the weekend, I thought I better get my ass in gear and start blogging again. The signs have been showing themselves to me that it's time, kinda like this one which popped up in my inbox from one of my besties that doesn't follow hockey:

[click to enlarge]

I love it. LOVE IT. Other signs include dreaming about Dion and getting a pair of autographed shorts and receiving not one but two season preview guides for my birthday. Whoo! I am starting to get excited now. The blog may be a bit different this season. I don't know how or even why but I think it will be.

It's been a long summer, boys and girls, but the air is getting crisp - I do believe that Katebits sums it up quite nicely.

Putting the word out

2007-07-18T10:09:00.000-04:00

Are you in?

Tim- er, Sid- er, Tidbits of Goodness

2007-07-18T09:49:00.000-04:00

I want to give a huuuuuuuuge shout-out to my girl, walkinvisible, for being the eyes and ears of the Torontonian Chapter of the Flames Blogosphere as she dutifully attends the prospect camp in Calgary - Day One and Day Two. I hang on her every word about your friend and mine, Leland Irving, and the spark plug, JD Watt. I'm also waiting for news on Johnny Negrin of my hometown Kootenay Ice. Ah... The soft spot for the Dub boys grows and grows.

My coffee-loving pal, Sherry, reported on the Sens signing everyone's (okay, mine) favourite crazy man, Shean Donovan who was given the illustrious nickname "Crazy SD." Whooo! Dono! Hee hee...

Margee = brilliance. 'Nuff said.

Upon further investigation

2007-07-12T09:55:00.000-04:00

I love to travel. Especially for hockey games. Poring over the newly announced schedule, I am already mapping out trips for the fall and what!? How many times can a person go to watch the ~~old farts~~ Red Wings? (Thanks for that, CC) If I chose to, I could treat myself to... TWO times. Okay, I thought it was going to be way more - maybe because it would feel like forever watching the dinosaurs skate around. I am done slagging on the Red Wings (for now). Anyway - I could also go just a bit farther to see the Flames play in Chicago (yawn) or the other way to watch them play Columbus (RICKY!). Mmmm.... road trip fun and good times. Or I could expand my travel horizons and start on my list of Hloggers I need to visit... Shall I come see you? I take bribes.

October 4 seems like yeeeeeears away

2007-07-11T14:03:00.000-04:00

Flames vs. Flyers? Really? Huh.

And I know it was decided a while back but two games in the UK? Are they expecting a crowd? Probably a smaller one that shows up daily at IPB anyway. I'll take donations to get me over there.

You'll have to forgive me. I'm a bit rusty at this whole blogging thing but I'm working my way back into things. You can argue amongst yourselves at who had the power to bring me back, a resurrection if you will.

I might be taking a different direction for a while, the first one being accepting a dare to liveblog a mountain stage of this year's Tour de France.... Yes, that's what I thought too.

On a closing note - Happy Birthday to Earl. I can't even think of a single snarky thing to say so I guess it's sincere.

Testing...

2007-07-05T12:08:00.000-04:00

Where have you all gone? Oh, wait. It was ME who was absent. Hee hee... Not to worry, I've been keeping my eye on the happenings surrounding the Flames with all the comings and goings.

Is it just me or has the Flames' Official Site had a makeover? Have I been gone that long? Sheesh. Sorry kiddos but I'm back now. Ready?

Um, what?

2007-06-14T14:33:00.000-04:00

Late last night, I get this via text from Leanne: Fucking shit! KEENAN? WOO! Err...

To which I reply: What? I'm out of the loop! Where?

Answer: Apparently... He's working for us... Said the score... And tsn...

Confused HG: Wtf? In place of jimmy?

Excited (?) Leanne: YES!

I am out of the loop completely at home in BC and I think I like it better. I'm going back to crawl under my rock. This can't be good. Or can it? Reactions are mixed in our little Flames blogosphere. My main concern is who is going to be the coach on Making the Cut...

What game? (Warning - profanity)

2007-06-06T20:28:00.000-04:00

The bet @ 8:20...

CC: SHIT FUCK DAMN
HG: rats well shucks think i can do this game profanity free?
CC: pffft no
HG: really?
CC: well, give it a shot I won't be able to do it
HG: okay wanna make a bet?
CC: depends - what does the winner get? one million dollars!
HG: Um let's make it realistic
CC: what, you don't have a million bucks lying around? yeesh...
HG: sorry how about... um a cheese pizza
CC: hahaha...deal okay, this is horseshit BIG STINKY HORSESHIT
HG: um are you doing it too? because if you are you can't say the word after horse
CC: oh, am I? okay starting now sorry
HG: okay

The bet's off @ 8:46...

HG: fuck
CC: SHUGAR FUDGE OOOOH I WIN
HG: dammit i hope you like cheese
CC: love it, thanks!

The end. Seriously. I gave up. It was just too depressing. You know it's bad when you start watching So You Think You Can Dance and wonder why a girl is moonwalking in gumboots.

Premonition?

2007-06-06T12:05:00.000-04:00

Last night I dreamt the wrong team won the Cup and Emery punched a ref in the face.

Attention TCFB - Updated

2007-06-06T00:49:00.000-04:00

(That's the Toronto Chapter of the Flames Blogosphere for those uninitiated)

Kiddies - What say you about another meet-up for the game? Leanne, I know you're busy but Dave? WI? ST? Bueller?

Other than that, not much else is new. I'm fucking stunned by the amount of comments that my fave sistas are getting at IPB. Seriously - 269 comments? Dudes. You rock. Crunchy would be proud.

Sherry - you need to find a concert for Wednesday ASAP. The boys need your tough love.

Alright. I may have more for you at another point in time but it's late and the final judgement on Iron Chef America needs my full attention.

Update - I'm staying in. I don't want to cry in public.

Concert schmoncert.

2007-06-02T17:06:00.000-04:00

Everyone's favourite Senators fan has decided to bail on her boys which leaves me to say, BLASPHEMY!

Since I am not an abandonneur, tonight, I will be joining Leanne and anyone else who is in TO to watch game three of this year's Stanley Cup Finals. And KB - don't worry, I'll ~~drink pitchers~~ take pictures for you.

Gorgonzola cheese for my whiners

2007-05-30T09:53:00.000-04:00

Okay. I know I wasn't gone that long but apparently the Hamilton HLOG Convention that I attended while Sparkle Pants was in a coma has a few of my fellow Hloggers cheesed off. I have a solution - let's plan a giant one. Like massive. Beyond comprehension. Animosity between Hloggers is not healthy.

We will set the agenda and make it a weekend long affair discussing topics like this gem. Seriously, this could be the start of something ~~insane~~ wonderful that will live forever. Start saving your Google AdSense dollars, ladies. Apply for grants. Create a PayPal account. It will happen.

Oh, and GO SENS!

Oh. Em. Gee.

2007-05-28T10:27:00.000-04:00

Finally! Sparkle Pants! YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY! Today is a day spent getting things back in order but I had to post a couple things.

1. Sherry, the ladies from NPI Hockey, Steph and Elly and I made a trip to Hamilton to watch the Bulldogs for a meeting of International HLOG proportions.

Really, I should have taken one with the four of us and our coffees because, holy shit, Elly loooooooooves Tim Hortons. Don't you, hun? :D

2. Remember I got something in the mail? Mwaaa haaa haaa...

I can't decide if I should frame it or carry it in my purse...

LOOK HOW IT'S WRITTEN!
I don't care if it was really Dion or if it was some smart Flames staffer, they are welcome at my house for Kraft Dinner anytime!

Okay, kiddies. It's good to be back. I missed you. *hugs*

An Ode to Sparkle Pants

2007-05-15T20:03:00.000-04:00

It is with great sorrow that I must announce the death of my beloved laptop, Sparkle Pants. She was a good girl and did her job well, putting up with my irrational posting. I am hoping she can be revived but in the off-chance that she can't be, I am going to die as well. For the time being, I am using her big brother, Mr. Black, but he's only here at night. He's a 'working' computer with a job. Hold tight, my friends, I shall return.

I am amending the "Bring Jordi back to Canada so she can join HG and Sherry in your town" donation fund to also include a separate account which is "Buy HG a new laptop." :D

Oh, and just to give you something to look forward to - I received something in the mail today that was beyond awesome. BEYOND AWESOME. On that note, I leave you.

Yay?

2007-05-13T14:27:00.000-04:00

YAY!
YAY!
YAY!
YAY!
YAY!

(AP Photo/Sergey Ponomarev)

SQUEES!

Recipients of HG's Squees!™ today - ~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi, ~~Little~~ Big Ricky Nash, my on- and off-again boyfriend Dion and the rest of the boys (and a little tiny, barely noticeable one for that goalie).

Mid-game thoughts not about the game

2007-05-13T13:13:00.000-04:00

Dear TV People,

Please change your commercials. We don't care who makes the trains and planes just as long as they don't crash. Is Nick really a great hockey volunteer? I mean, he put that girl in the closet and called it her 'dressing room'. That couple should leave RBC, paint their room bright fucking orange and put mirrors on the ceiling.

Love,
HG

The secret is out

2007-05-12T12:14:00.000-04:00

~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matthew Lombardi is becoming known around the world for his performance at the tourney in Moscow. How do I know this? Because someone in Slovakia searched 'canada hockey mathew lombardi characteristic'. To my fellow Flames blogmates - it looks like we might have to share him now.

Some thoughts from today's game:

I think all NHL coaches should have to wear black blazers with a simple team logo on the breast.
The thought crossed my mind of getting tickets to the Worlds in Quebec City and Halifax for next year but then imagined that in some cruel twist of fate that I would get them and the Flames would still be in the playoffs.
I love Team Canada. I just ignore Roloson.
Mike Commodore cracks me up.
Dion is redeeming himself. We're no longer on a break. And Matty is still my boyfriend.

Okay. I'm going to get back to watching the game.

Squees and Smackdown

2007-05-10T10:03:00.000-04:00

(walkinvisible, I think you will find this more to your liking)

Squees:

~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi.
~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi with ~~Little~~ Big Ricky Nash.
~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi with ~~Little~~ Big Ricky Nash with Captain Doan.
My almost ex-boyfriend Dion paired with Shea Weber (you have to play nice, boys).
CANADA WINS!
OTTAWA VS. BUFFALO STARTS TONIGHT!

Smackdown:

Rod Black.
Anaheim vs. Detroit? Really? Boooooooooooring-a-rooni-dooni.
The Blue Jays. Yes, I know this is a hockey blog but I love them and THEY SUCK. Eight straight losses? Letting 64 runs in and only getting 25? Who are you? The Flames? Bah.

Obligatory post or something

2007-05-09T11:35:00.000-04:00

Comic courtesy of toothpaste for dinner

Hey kids! Don't worry. I'm still around. Life, you know? It can bite you in the ass sometimes. I don't have any real excuses as to why I haven't posted. Lazy, maybe. Busy, maybe. I will endeavour to get something real up soon. As you know, I've adopted the Sens as my Eastern team. Now that they are playing Buffalo, there could be a little road trip action. I will accept donations to the "Bring HG and Sherry to Your Town" fund.

Short and Sweet (No Pun Intended)

2007-05-04T11:44:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the lovely Elly at NPI Hockey and her intraweb sleuthing, I came across an article that I had to share. In honour of ~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matthew Lombardi and his goal this morning, I present you with this. I echo Elly in that I hope it wasn't too cold in there.

Suck on that, Parliament!

2007-05-04T10:56:00.000-04:00

AP Photo/Misha Japaridze

Shane Doan scored three goals in a span of six minutes 25 seconds in the second period. - CP

Canada wins over Belarus with a final of 6-3. Next game is versus Czech Republic on Sunday, followed by the US on Monday both games at 12:00pm EST.

OT - Why I'm glad I'm not in school anymore

2007-05-03T20:13:00.000-04:00

HG
you are silly
8:07
Jordi
yes I am
omg
I almost got thrown out of a lecture once
8:08
HG
why?
8:08
Jordi
It's the worst lecture in the world, and people usually talk. So I brought my PSP to play NHL 07 and then suddenly everyone's talking and I'm chilling. And then I suddenl;y shout "son of a bitch!" when someone scored against me and the lecturer goes "alright! you out!". I'm like "fuck it's me" but he's like "you with the red hair"
and then the girl next to me had red hair and she was like "oh I'll shut up, sorry"
and then he goes "no not you, the one next to you"
and I'm like "crap"
and then the guy in front of me had red hair
and was kicked out
instead of me
I think the lecturer thought he was the one that swore
and now I make sure never to make that mistake again
8:10
HG
you are fucking hilarious
i love it
8:10
Jordi
hockey is making me ride a dangerous life!
8:11
HG
hahahaha

Did you think I abandoned you?

2007-05-03T13:40:00.000-04:00

I have enjoyed a bit of time off here, blissfully ignoring the general hockey world and probably chatting too much. I have been thinking about a few things however and would like to share so bear with me.

Though I was expecting the Flames to lose (sad, I know) and sighed with relief when they were eliminated, it took a few days for it to sink in that my team let me down. Their lackluster performance in the playoffs was an anti-climatic end to less-than-stellar regular season. The ups and downs that they put me through were too close together and made the realization that they generally just sucked this year made their round one appearance bittersweet.
Our Kipper has been nominated for the Vezina Trophy but I'm going to have to guess he's not going to win. He should though.
Dion has a chance to redeem himself to me now that he's at Worlds. Remember, he and I are on a break?
I didn't want to get into the whole Shane Doan issue but after sitting in the customer lounge while waiting for the car to be ready, watching CP24's live coverage of the hearings in Ottawa, I feel compelled to comment after Bob Nicholson became very emotional in his speech which in turn made me emotional (and we all know how I get). This whole thing is absurd. The alleged slur happen 17 months ago and I'm sure that worse things have been said on the ice in the heat of the moment. Duncan, as always, has a better take on what I'm trying to say. Leanne sent a link yesterday to Alan Maki's column about creating a write-in campaign to Vote for Shane:
The fact he has no political experience and thinks a left winger is a good guy to pass to means absolutely nothing. He couldn't possibly do a worse job than the current boneheads who have taken it upon themselves to chastise Doan's selection as captain of Canada's team at the world hockey championships in Russia.
Because my imagination is borderline overactive and Leanne puts up with me, we decided that this should indeed happen. We can make shirts that say, "Vote for Shane" to wear around and make rally scarves at the HLOG knitting cafe (coming soon!). The Phoenix Coyotes should fold which would allow Gretzky to take a prominent role in the campaign, even running alongside Doan. We figured Jeremy Roenick would be excellent in the role of PR manager / spin doctor.
Apparently the key to the Sens winning is me enjoying a pizza-free night while not watching the game. Sucks for me but I'll sacrifice for Sherry. And I guess for Pav, if he ever shows his face around here.
The Calgarian Chapter of the Flames' Blogosphere Official Get Together will be nowhere as cool as our wild night at the immortal/nondescript Shoeless Joe's here in TO; firstly because we won't be there and secondly because um... uh... dammit, I have nothing.

A message of note from a dog...

2007-04-30T13:39:00.000-04:00

Let's try this again, shall we? Go Sens! I know that you love to lose game twos but you're heading into the familiar territory of home ice where you should kick some ass. Right? RIGHT?

Thanks to everyone who left a comment on Saturday. Off to the ball game I go tonight, hoping that it works in the Sens favour again, steering clear of pizza and apparently sushi now too. By the end of playoffs, I may not be able to eat anything.

Sherry, maybe the combination of me and you was too much for the universe to handle. Yeah. That's it. So now the Sens should win. Right?
CC, I don't remember what I ate last Thursday... Um... Food, maybe?
Victor, I am NOT going to eat poutine.
Jordi, the sooner you come back, the happier we'll both be. Start swimming, woman!
Steph, I know. All it was missing was some random puppets. I figure the dog does the trick this time.
Kyle, that hit was before and you know I loved it. Come on! Sheesh. ;)

Uh... yeah. Game day posts just aren't really the same when it's not your real team. GO SENS for the love of all that is Canadian (because we all know the Canucks don't count)!

Yay for alliteration! (A traitorous game day)

2007-04-28T10:27:00.000-04:00

Some of you already know that I have a secret love for an Eastern team. It was a toss up between the Sabres and the Senators at the beginning of the season and while our Flames were torturing me, I was keeping an eye on the two esses. By Christmas though, it was clear that the Sens were burrowing their way in and I silently cheered them on. In March, I did come out on HLOG professing my secret for a few of the boys. Going to the game at Scotiabank only cemented them in their spot as my Eastern team to love.

Tonight I will be watching the Senators / Devils game with the best Sens fan in the world - Sherry! Remember we met a while back? Well, this time she's making the loooooong trek from her house to mine where we will enjoy silliness, sushi (no pizza) and Senators on a Saturday. Due to the pressies I scored for Sherry in Ottawa, we will be able to cheer in style.

First though, I am heading to a baseball game which brought luck to the Flames so I'm hoping it does the same for the Sens.

Go Jays!
Go Sens!

I hate the Clear Day list

2007-04-26T13:40:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the AHL's stupid CDL, the Omaha Knights couldn't add Our David and the big galoot Godard to their lineup last night. However, stupid Iowa added stupid Joel Lundqvist, who came directly from the recently eliminated stupid Dallas Stars, and proceeded to score two stupid goals giving his team a 3-2 win over Omaha. The Knights are down in the series 3-1 with game 5 being played tomorrow night back in Nebraska.

Come on Baby Flames! Show your big idiotic brothers how it's done!

WI: Your boy had an assist last night.

Sutter speaks (and I listened. A bit.)

2007-04-25T16:25:00.000-04:00

Kyle tipped me off to Darryl's press conference so I decided to tune into the fan960.com to hear what the GM has to say. Not too many direct quotes for you since I don't type in shorthand and what I did get is paraphrased.

He thinks that an 8th place regular season finish with 96 points, scoring 40 more goals than last year is a positive thing to look at when comparing this year to last year. With the points going up this year, it shows how tough it is in the conference to make the playoffs.

As for losing in game 6 of the first round, he said that when they lost to Detroit, they lost to the number 1 seed. The number 8 team lost to number 1. He thinks they (the Flames) are better than an 8th place team and that the first period of game 5 was the best of the series.

A question was posed from someone about how the fans and media are preoccupied with Playfair to which Darryl answers that he is "not going to critique or give accolades three days after the playoffs end," citing that it's not a good practice to do publicly. The organization is going through analysis of players this week and will be doing the coaching staff next week. He says everyone is going through evaluations and no one is satisfied with just saying they are a playoff team.

Sutter explains that "patience is part of a successful business, not just hockey," and it's fine to critique the team but also look at how well they did.

He is not going to discuss contracts until July 1st with the media.

Before I lost the feed, Darryl was mentioning that Gio filled in well this season but still has a lot of development and growth in him, that he and Moss did well.

I'm sure this will be on the telly and in the papers soon with more information but I got what I could for you kids.

Jerseys for next year announced

2007-04-25T11:23:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Leanne for the head's up on this breaking development.

Baby Flames Action

2007-04-24T15:23:00.000-04:00

The kids in Omaha are in their first round of playoffs on their way to the Calder Cup. Unfortunately they are currently down 2-1 in their series versus the Iowa Stars. The Flames reassigned Marky Mark to the Knights today and Brent Krahn was shipped back on Monday. I'm curious as to why they also didn't send Our David and the big galoot Godard back down at the same time.

The Knights finished the 2006-2007 season with 104 points, clinching the AHL's Western Conference top spot. In their first ever playoff game in Omaha (as the Knights), the final score was 4-2 in their favour over Iowa. Game two saw an OT goal by the Stars even the series up. For game three, the teams headed to Des Moines where Omaha lost to the home team by a score of 2-1.

Game four is set for Wednesday in Iowa. Anyone up for a super road trip? :D

Brandon Prust is leading the team with 3 points (all assists) in the playoffs. The leading scorer is rookie Chris Lee with 2 goals and no assists. WI, your Tomi Maki is the invisible player with no goals, no assists, no PIM, a 0 +/- and about one SOG. He needs your love.

Round One, Game Sev- OH RIGHT! I don't have to do this anymore!

2007-04-23T18:22:00.000-04:00

Ah... nothing beats the morning after your team is eliminated. Especially when you saw it coming the day before. While I am a teeny tiny bit sad at my team's performance, I am grateful it's over. Now I can sit back to watch some excellent hockey while not worrying or stressing out to the same degree that watching the Flames would entail. You know what the absolute best part of the Flames' getting eliminated is though? Besides no longer having to suffer through an evening of cursing the head ~~dumbass~~ chap his chin? Guess! No, really! Guess!

.
.
.

I GET TO EAT PIZZA AGAIN!

That's right, kids! It's celebration time! I might just eat a different kind of pizza every night this week. I have four in the freezer and a phone call can bring the rest to my door! Yes! I am so excited! La la la! Happy, carefree HG is back, bitches!

Whoa. Time to settle down.

I have a request from Ken at the Caps blog, Japers' Rink, to get the word out on sharing a feature they have started called The View from Your Playoff Seat:

Hoping you can help us out. As lonely bloggers for a non-playoff team (the Caps), we at Japers' Rink have decided to try to live vicariously through the rest of the Stanley Cup chasing world. We've started a recurring feature on the blog - "The View From Your Playoff Seat" - and we're hoping to get hockey fans from around the country to send in pics to capture the game experience. The ever-expanding album can be found here. We're hoping that you might be able to ask your readers and Flames fans to send any pics from the games (whether taken at the games or watching the games from home or at a bar) to us at this email address. We'll post pics and then links back to the bloggers from where they came (or if the pics are just from fans, we'll link back to some of the blogs from the relevant teams).This could be a great way for all of us to gain new readers. (And for us to participate in the playoff experience in a small way.)

Ladies and gentlemen, as we have now joined the ranks of those who are playoff-team-less, I suggest we participate. Kyle! You should have some photos, no? And MG, I know one of your cohorts went to a game. And Matt from BoA, did you remember your camera? Don't let me down - I said I'd get the word out.

Now, I have to go have some delicious pizza pie.

Mmm... pie....

Round One, Game Six: SuperPost: Why you don't want to be on my chat list

2007-04-22T21:38:00.000-04:00

This is just because I'm kinda half-heartedly watching the game and chatting with CapsChick. What follows might bore the crap out of you, offend you or put you to sleep. Hopefully it makes you laugh or, at least, crack a smile. Consider yourself warned.

1:13 AM - Another warning for you fair readers - this got way longer than I thought it would. I kept up with it as I found it somewhat cathartic to go through and change names and format the post and just take some time to empty my brain so I understand if you just skip by this post. Pardon any spelling and grammar mistakes. I'm sad and letdown but mostly tired right now so I'll more for you later. I did chat quite a bit with Steph, who is a Wings fan, but we kept our chatter to food and invisible trains. Thanks for sticking with it, kids. There's always next year, right?

Pre-game - 8:51
CC: how's it going? still breathing? still alive?
HG: oh yeah i'm totally fine
CC: hahaha, I figured you'd be in a zen place tonight since they don't deserve to win and all
HG: exactly!

First period -
9:32 - Marky Mark goes down after a slap shot to the side of the helmet.
HG: OH NO GIO GIOOOOOOOO GIO NOOOOOOOOO
CC: GIO GIO GIO
HG: OMG
CC: GIO GET UP
HG: OMG totally random but he's wearing hamrlik's gloves

9:37 - Langkow takes a tripping penalty
CC: nice shot grandpamonte
HG: awesome nice work langks
CC: yup
HG: NICE BEARD
CC: don't lift your arms up like you didn't do anything
HG: YOU SPILLED SOME SUGAR IN IT
CC: that's when you get CAUGHT
HG: OR FLOUR
CC: yeah hahaha

Second period -
10:05 - Iggy scores
HG: FUCK YEAH
CC: WOOOOOOOOOOOOO
HG: MY ARMS WERE PRE-EMPTIVELY UP BECAUSE THEY ARE STIFF FROM SOFTBALL AND I WAS STRETCHING THEM!
CC: HAHAHAHA well that makes it easier! efficient movements save your strength

10:12 - Scrum in front of the net
HG: YOU TELL HIM DAVEY!
CC: PUNCH HIM STUPID HASEK IN HIS STUPID PENIS-LOOKING HELMET COVERING UP HIS WRINKLY WHINY STUPID FACE
HG: ooo can i put that on the post?
CC: HAHAHA please do spread the word LET THE WORD SPRING FORTH THAT HASEK IS A TOOL
HG: hahhaa okay
CC: LET IT RING FROM THE ROOFTOPS SELL IT TO THE PAPERS TELL ALL YOU SEE OF THE MIGHTY TOOLINESS THAT IS HASEK tool
HG: alright you done now? i only have so much space :) j/k
CC: hahaha yes until he does something tool-y then I shall be forced to rant again :)

10:25 - Commercial time means channel surfing
HG: ooo yankees red sox game
CC: oooooo where? never mind, found it bosox won yesterday
HG: nice
CC: FUCK YOU JETER
HG: i love love LOVE daisuke

10:32 - DET scores
HG: dude
CC: FUCK
HG: DION YOU ASSHAT
CC: WTF COME ON STOP SUUUUCKING

10:41 - Second intermission
HG: what kind of intermission crap are you getting?
CC: captain obvious and his sidekicks sergeant duh and private no shit sherlock are saying nothing
HG: omg vinny in an ugly mock neck shirt! wtf? heater! omg fuzzy dany!
CC: WHERE? WHAT? HUH? OMG I HAVE TO WATCH FUCKING AMERICA'S CUP UPDATES AND YOU GET VINNY AND HEATER??? STUPID VERSUS
HG: HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHA

Third period -
11:26 - Near the end, only a minute or so left:
HG: I think if either team doesn't score, it should go to like 8 overtimes or something ridiculous like that.
CC: yes yes OMG but I AM FREAKING OUT THAT WAS THE LOUDEST POST EVER
HG: I KNOW!
CC: f;aoiv;aoerinva;eoridf'sl;a'wipehvg'qareop
HG: well then this should be fun and not stressful at all....
CC: oh yeah, absolutely not fucking stressful at all my zen place? blown to shit my nerves? blown to shit I'm going over the edge...come join me in crazyville, won't you? AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH
HG: okay but first i am going for super fun with the hilariousness that is my dog
CC: hahaha - I was with you...

11:40 - Beginning of 1st OT
HG: I'm back! just in time for Overtime Magic!
CC: me too! omg! we timed that perfectly!
HG: grandpamonte's on the ice that makes COMPLETE sense nice work jimmy
CC: hahahaha
HG: nice to see you haven't grown a brain
CC: he's just trying to match the red wings age on the ice cheerios is out there put out your own geriatric
HG: right right ahahahaha

11:49 - It's blurring together now...
HG: DETRIOT IS GOING TO SCORE
CC: NO NO NO
HG: YEP
CC: NO NO NO NO
HG: THEY WILL
CC: KIIIIIPER
HG: THE FLAMES ARE NOT GOING TO WIN THIS
CC: YES THEY WILL HAVE FAITH GO WATCH BASEBALL
HG: FAITH DOESN'T MATTER ANYMORE REALITY HAS SET IN
CC: NOOOOOO THEY WILL WIN THIS GAME THEY WILL LOSE TUESDAY
HG: THE JAYS LOST THREE STRAIGHT ON THE ROAD
CC: ICK THE NATS LOST 12-6 TODAY
HG: WHY PUT ME THROUGH ANOTHER GAME ON TUESDAY? JUST FINISH IT
CC: NOOOOO whoa davey
HG: he's got fire in his blood, that one
CC: OH NOES HERE I'LL HELP YOU GO FLAAAAAMES GO
HG: THANKS but i'm resigned i'm tired of himmy i mean jimmy
CC: me too but I love the boys you love the boyos boys boyos whatev

11:53 - A voice from around the world shows up
HG: WHERE ARE YOU?
Jordi: I'm in the library in the other campus! I've got a full hour if this goes to 8-OT I don't know what to do!
HG: I SAID THAT! I SAID 8 OT! who else are you talking to?
Jordi: just capschick!
HG: did cc tell you to say 8 ot?
Jordi: NO! I only just thought of it!
HG: REALLY?
Jordi: YES! WE ARE CONNECTED
HG: WE ARE! OMG CONROY JUST TOOK A 4 MINUTE PENALTY FOR HIGHSTICKING YOU DUMBASS MOTHER FUCKING IDIOT
Jordi: GO PK GO?
HG: fucking hell

12:00 - I don't know where I am any more...
HG: holy shit
CC: amen oy ack whoa kipper
HG: i heart him. so says my shirt. he's the only one worthy right now.
CC: yes throw all your love to him he deserves the win even if no one else does
HG: that's true... is remenda saying, "he stoled that puck?" STOLED?
CC: yup smarty
HG: THAT IS NOT A WORD
CC: he is so smart S M R T
HG: hamrlik maybe deserves the win only for tonight's performance
CC: right? he's the man right now what a penalty kill

Fourth intermission -
12:21 - Another familiar voice pops up
Leanne: delusional, eh...
HG: wow... just...
Leanne: i know!
HG: give it up or something. don't make me have hope
Leanne: it's like they don't reeeeallly wanna win it but they got bribed by whoever detroit's playing next to wear them down. i can't believe i just wrote that...
HG: kelly just said, "this game just reeks of a red wing victory"
Leanne: ouch
HG: aren't det playing ana?
Leanne: if they advance preferably det would play golf
HG: i don't think golf itself could handle cash or maybe a bunch of courses got together and are offering free rounds to the flames or something
Leanne: mmm
HG: yeah i've gone crazy
Leanne: me too

Second OT -
12:40 - Finally...
HG: I CALLED IT
CC: FUCK
HG: I KNEW IT
CC: POOOOOOOR KIPPER OMG
HG: thank god it's over
CC: yeah
HG: i know... kipper... fucking playfair IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT! YOU RUINED THEM!
CC: BRING BACK SUTTER BRING BACK SUTTER BRING BACK SUTTER
HG: YOU STARTED KILLING THEM IN SEPTEMBER
CC: aw nice crowd KIPPER KIPPER KIPPER KIPPER KIPPER
HG: i know. he deserves it. what a letdown for him.
CC: really you know, they played well at home give them that much
HG: ::Snorts.:: Yeah....
CC: they did! kind of
HG: I know! but they needed to win on the ROAD!
CC: yeah, that's the tricky part fuck
HG: i'm .... exhausted....
CC: me............ too...........................
HG: what an anti-climatic end to the year actually the whole season was anti-climatic
CC: yeah sigh *HUGS* next year when they fire playfuck they'll be good again still
HG: i know i'm fine i just need to sleep
CC: me too
HG: kelly just said, "Detroit never took their foot off the gas." and it's so true
CC: it is
HG: they outplayed us
CC: I hate to admit that they were better
HG: me too but that's what fans of the game do - they see both sides
CC: yup it's how I was able to write all those nice things about the fucking penguins the hockey fan overwhelmed the biased homer in me
HG: exactly.

Round One, Game Six: Ramble on

2007-04-22T19:06:00.000-04:00

Ramble on / And now's the time / The time is now

I'm not too sure what to say here in this game day post. Yesterday's showing left me... wondering about a lot of things. I'm sure I could get into all of the technicalities and whatnot but you and I both know that I prefer to post with my heart.

I am sure the boys will come out in front of their home crowd tonight and win like they should, allowing me to slip on the ~~Flames red~~ rose-tinted glasses, allowing me to put the gong show that happened in Detroit to the side. I have a couple comments and questions about Saturday's game now that I've had some time to think:

Was it a collective thought to go bananas?
Did Noodles get "the" tap on the shoulder from Playfair?
I am confused a bit at the Iggy who showed up late in the third - I understand fired up Iggy who gets his team going and scores but insane Iggy disappoints me. I am disappointed in his actions.

What gets me the most is how... I just feel as though it's obvious that the Flames don't want to win the series, let alone the Stanley Cup. I'm not sure I want them to win. It saddens me to say that and people tell me to not give up hope however I feel I cannot fully support a team like the one I was watching yesterday. I say that someone kidnapped the Evil Road Twins and replaced them with something entirely different. I was not proud to be a Calgary Flames fan during that game.

I have no problem with Red Wings fans being upset and I can understand how they would feel that way, I would too. Let me say this to the anonymice that showed up yesterday: If you are going to come here and leave comments about how classless the Flames are then step up and put a name down, nothing says cowardice like an anonymous comment.

I feel better about things after reading Leanne's words on this series:

As a hockey fan, it's been hugely entertaining as a playoff series to observe the ups and downs of the series.

Ah yes. In the end, it's just a game. Come what may. Playoffs bring out the best and worst of people - fans, coaches, teams, broadcasters who say the wrong names... We wait all season long with baited breath, hoping that our team has their act together to be the best. Some of us follow with blind faith, some of us follow with one eye open and some of us follow fumbling around in the back of the closet with a dim flashlight. I don't care if that makes sense, it made me laugh.

I didn't really know what I was going to write when I sat down to this post. I felt a bit like I owed it to my readers to share my thoughts on what went down and I tried to get them out. I could have just gone back and deleted everything I wrote up until now but that wouldn't be fair as then you maybe wouldn't have been able to follow the stream of consciousness that has brought me to here. I could get all introspective, looking back on the season and how it's gone. Maybe that sounds like I have resigned myself to the Flames losing and it's partially true. If they go on to win this series by some stroke of fate, I don't think that they would win the next one. I say they need to finish up the year with dignity and class, hitting the golf courses knowing they tried their damnedest with a dumb ass as a head coach and knowing that next year will be different.

That being said, who wants to take bets that we get Magoo tonight just for some extra shits and giggles? Maybe we have drawn him but I'm too lazy to go find out.

Yay... optimism?

Bonus points to whoever made it this far and super bonus points to who gets the post title and song reference!

Round One, Game Five: ... (profanity warning)

2007-04-21T18:09:00.000-04:00

Fuck you Flames. Asshat bastards. What the fuck was that shit? You obviously don't want it so I hope you don't get it.

Fuck.

FUCK!

Torontonian Chapter of the Flames Blogosphere: Anyone up for going to the movies tomorrow night instead?

Round One, Game Five: Insta-post, v.3

2007-04-21T17:56:00.000-04:00

WHAT THE FUCK?

I'm a little ashamed to be a fan of this team right now.

Round One, Game Five: Insta-post, v.2

2007-04-21T17:36:00.000-04:00

Leanne: we got a goal, eh?

me: huh

Leanne: ditch dion for lombo

me: totally

i'll go post that right now

~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi is my new boyfriend.

Round One, Game Five: Insta-post

2007-04-21T16:21:00.000-04:00

2nd period, 3:30 in - Dion and I are on a break with Hamrlik on notice.

Round One, Game Five: Insanity Rules!

2007-04-21T11:22:00.000-04:00

As the rounds go on the texts, chats, e-mails and comments that get exchanged become more and more insane. Any other time, I would be worried but it's playoffs. Long live insanity! This is your fair warning that things might get a little... insane around here in the near future. With that out of the way, let's begin!

After much discussion, I have decided to take one for the team. I will continue to feel like crap if it means that none of the boys gets hurt. Leanne pointed out the Flames' record when one of us is in sick bay so... I'll sacrifice myself. The downside for everyone around me will just have to put up with my whining.

There's no baseball game today that I can go to so I'm creating my own in the park with my glove, a ball and some friends (the same ones who made the lovely home-cooked dinner).

Hmm... Am I getting too superstitious? Not anymore than the Torontonian Chapter of the Flames Blogosphere and our faith in a certain PVR. As I write this quick pre-game before heading out to the lovely Trinity Bellwoods park, Global's Making the Cut is on the telly: If I can get through this... I can get through anything... :D

On a bit of a fun note in this rivalry - I respect Christy at Behind the Jersey, she was part of the reason why I started this blog so I've been making sure to not have any bad blood between us during this first round. However, she has a dilemma for this game at the Joe - What would you do? I didn't want to leave a cheeky comment on her blog so I'll do it here: I'd wear a red Flames jersey. ;)

On a bit of a random note - my site meter recently went over 20,000 hits. Thanks to all my regular readers for sticking with me. Thanks to all my new readers for coming to say and sticking around.

YAY OPTIMISM!

Round One, Game Four: I cab't breabe

2007-04-20T00:16:00.000-04:00

No really. I can't. I had a momentary moment of relief when I jumped up and down celebrating the win but alas I hab the snibbles.

This night o' glory was spent with a number of lovely people through Leanne's wonderful liveblog and my busy chat window (which by the way, thanks girls, I don't know how you put up with me). As the game went on in intensity, so did my cold/allergies/stress to the point that I was left listening to the tv and relying on the words popping up on my screen as my eyes hurt from those blasted moving picture. Why is it so bright? *whines, gropes blindly for Neo-Citran*

I stuck it out though as I was so gently told by CapsChick: It's the playoffs. No one can breathe. Man up, er, woman up. So I did.

FUCK YEAH! GO FLAMES!

I've sat here for at least half an hour now and just can't think of anything to say right now. Could be the VAN/DAL OT but that just ended. Could be the Neo-Citran. I'll have more for you tomorrow after a happy sleep.

Oh, so, looks like me attending a baseball game on Flames' game day is 2 for 2.

WTF?

2007-04-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

Ron Maclean says, "Derek Boogaard is traded to Calgary."

Round One, Game Four: Playfair can suck it

2007-04-19T17:26:00.000-04:00

And this is why.

Leanne: You better love the fact that he got his nickname back because that took me waaaaaay too long to do.

This is the Dawning of the Age of Huselius according to Dave. Nice work, my friend, nice work. After laughing my ass off and gaining my breath back I was able continue reading to see he has outlined some keys to winning tonight that I wholeheartedly agree with and I'm left with nothing to add except that GIO BETTER BE IN. I know I'm not the only one who is hoping to see Marky Mark in the line up: walkinvisible would have my back (although I don't know if I can have hers once she gets that *cough*Rangers*cough* jersey) and I'm hoping MG would too (if he's not too upset I went to another Jays game albeit a matinee today).

Robyn Regehr is scratched for tonight so keep your fingers crossed that our favourite rookie d-man gets a chance to shine again.

YAY OPTIMISM!

OT - Sens/Pens Game 2

2007-04-18T12:09:00.000-04:00

This past weekend as I mentioned I was in our nation's capital and thanks to a lovely perk, I attended the Ottawa Senators' game 2 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The atmosphere at Scotiabank Place was awesome. I heart playoffs!

The view from Suite 420 - moments before game time.

Although pizza was available (see photo), I steered clear lest my pizza curse jinxes other teams. I am on a pizza free diet until the end of playoffs.

Opening faceoff

His name is Raaaaaaaaaaaaay.

I took this for Jordi who LOVES Jordan Staal (hehehe) but then noticed Andrej Meszaros and his business behind the net.

Cheeky!

Round One, Game Three: Phew!

2007-04-18T11:12:00.000-04:00

Obviously my change in routine led to the Flames' win. Obviously. :)

Before I get to the hockey game, let me quickly mention the baseball game - Matsuzaka = Crazy amazing even though he lost. Go Jays! I have taken plenty of harassment for going to the game but it's not like I missed the Flames game entirely. Even though some of you may be disappointed, CapsChick brought up a good point that I have to now go to a baseball game every time the Flames play since they won. I guess it depends how superstitious you are. I am going to a matinee game on Thursday - that should count, no?

On to hockey - HOLY SHITBALLS! I got back from the baseball game around 10:30 and pressed play on the PVR, first catching the end of the Sens/Pens game (also worth a HSB!) before catching up to the Flames' game start. I think Heather Liscano may be one of the best anthem singers out there. I could feel myself get nervous and excited - there's nothing like a playoff game at home. Even though I wasn't in Calgary, I have been to enough playoff games in a home arena to remember the feeling.

Leanne texted me at 10:17 with Game just started... Looks better! :) so I had a hunch that things would get off to a good start which they seemed to. I was a bit confused at how Hamrlik ended up being the only guy to get a penalty from the rough-housing that went on in the first 5 minutes but whatever. And yay to the boys for killing off that 4 minutes that Sneaky Preems took for the high stick. And YAY to ~~Dreamy~~ Speedy Matty Lombardi for the PPG off of that beautiful pass from Tanguay and Our David. And yay to all of the boys for not taking a single penalty in the second period. And SUPER DUPER YAY TO MARKY MARK FOR HIS FIRST EVER PLAYOFF GOAL (on the PP too)! YAY! YAY! I HEART YOU, GIO! I'M SO GLAD THAT YOU WERE IN THE LINE UP! AND HOLY CRAP! RHETT! A PUCK IN THE FACE AND YOU CAME BACK?

Oh, my heart jumped into my throat when that happened and he fell down but then a couple of teammates came over to him and I could see his hands grabbing at their jerseys - I immediately thought the worst but thank goodness he was alright. Sheesh. And then! Heart attack #2 when Dion got rocked by Cleary so hard it rattled his noggin. To me, it looked like that should have been a penalty. I'm not saying that because I love Dion (well, a little teeny tiny bit) but thanks to the joy and wonder of the PVR and it's rewinding glory it was obvious that Cleary left his feet and had his elbow up.

And what's this? GrandpAmonte had a good game? I couldn't barely believe my eyes. I thought I was in a Neo-Citran induced haze when he made that pass to Sneaky Preems who fired it off to Iggy for the GWG.

I don't care if you don't believe me but I did call it at the beginning of the third that the Flames were going to win. I also threw in "It might be the Neo-Citran talking though," as a disclaimer in case I was wrong. Guess I was more lucid than I thought. I had a good sleep finally though thanks to the hot deliciousness of my drink and the win from our boys. Let's keep it up! I can do without the cold though but if that's what it takes to win, I will suffer.

Round One, Game Three: Abandonment

2007-04-17T16:43:00.000-04:00

If the Flames are going to abandon me, I'm going to abandon them.

At least for the first period.

It's true. I'm choosing a home-cooked dinner at a friend's place and going to the Jays / Red Sox game over the Flames. It was a pretty easy decision to make considering Daisuke Matsuzaka is pitching. The harder decision was if I should wear my Jays hat or my Red Sox hat but considering it's kinda cold out, I'm going with the Flames toque.

Yay optimism?

Oh, so, I woke up this morning with a cold but also feeling like it was Christmas day. I felt like if I turned on the TV I would hear news that head ~~dumbass~~ coach Jimmy would be gone. All I heard instead is that Robyn Regehr is out.

[sarcasm] Awesome. [/sarcasm]

Round One, Game Two: PROFANITY WARNING.

2007-04-15T16:51:00.000-04:00

I looked at the fork in my hand at one point in the 3rd period and thought, "Huh. I bet if I jabbed my eyes out then I don't have to watch the rest of the game," then I remembered I had my glasses on so I stabbed the shit out of my cheesecake.

I am... disappointed, disheartened, discouraged, dissatisfied, dissad (I don't care if that's not a word, it fits).

I was hoping to see Sutter behind the bench for the second period, is that allowed?

[sarcasm] Next game, I hope that the Flames can work on taking more penalties, allowing the Red Wings to play 5-on-2 and get 167 shots on goal. [/sarcasm]

Dion - Thank you for the PPG. I wish I could say that gem would dull the pain but alas it does not.

JAROME IGINLA - WHAT THE FUCK? YOU LED THE TEAM WITH A TOI OF 25:38 AND YOU ONLY HAD 2 SHOTS ON NET? SWEET CHEESE ON A CRACKER.

Holy shit... Jim Playfair... You are a fucking fool. Where the fuck is your game plan? Your team gets outshot 51 to 15?

Oh, has anyone else noticed that he has a CHAPPED CHIN from nervously rubbing it so often? I'm dead serious.

I don't care that it's only game 2 - it's the fucking playoffs, you know, the fucking STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS. Do you want it or do you want to get fucked?

Fuck. You fuckers.

Round One, Game Two: Time for Pie

2007-04-15T12:45:00.000-04:00

Yay pie!

This is short and sweet as I am out the door to watch the game at The Prescott here in Ottawa. I will have lots up about yesterday's Sens game later but as a teaser, it was AWESOME. I know they lost however the atmosphere was electric. But on to my true love team - Boys. Please don't make me cry in public. I don't want to have to have a tantrum in the pub; if people are going to be staring at the crazed Flames fan, please let them be doing it because I'm excited and happy. Besides, the management and servers at The Prescott might not appreciate a glass being smashed against their big screen TV.

Go Flames! Boo Wings-a-rooni-dooni!

Round One, Game One: Aftermath

2007-04-12T22:03:00.000-04:00

Has anyone seen the Flames?

BECAUSE THEY WERE
NOT IN DETROIT TONIGHT.

The End.

Oh, what? That was them? I did see head ~~dumbass~~ coach Jimmy, looking nervous and confused behind the bench now that I think about it. You know what this means - a trip to Detroit (figuratively, of course, as I am actually heading to Ottawa tomorrow morning with a return to TO on Monday sometime) in the HG-COPTER <- note the re-naming.

Upon my arrival, I will be pulling on a giant boot and kicking them all in the ass. Then I will sit them down in a row addressing those who played tonight. Let's begin:

Dion Phaneuf - You did alright. I have no real problems with you just please don't break anything this year. I need you to improve your playoff rating of -8 thus far.
Roman Hamrlik - What a sad birthday for you. Taking a -1 rating tonight does not apply to your age, you cannot get younger this way.
Brad Stuart - I am not happy with you. At all. DUDE! You have to watch the puck and drop to block shots and not turn your back on your man.
Andrea Susan - I don't even know where to start with you. Why are you even on the ice?
Tony Amonte - Just... FUCK, BUDDY!
Jarome Iginla - The official super stats are showing you had no shots. NO SHOTS? Shoot the puck.
Stephane Yelle - Why weren't you scaring me all night? Making me think you were hurt when you dropped to block a shot? Oh, because you didn't block any shots? Huh...
Byron Ritchie - Dude. You were awesome. I love your feisty behaviour. You're like a wild dog and I think you should have bit someone in that late game scrum behind the net.
Matthew Lombardi - Matty, Matty, Matty... Are you sad because I took away your nick name? As soon as you score, you get it back.
Wayne Primeau - Uh... when you are coming up on a guy, hit him. That's all. Do I need to say 'big body presence?' No? Good.
Kristian Huselius - I didn't really see your usefulness tonight. Two shots? That's it? Where are your hands? FIND THEM.
David Hale - I barely noticed you and that's a good thing. Keep it up.
Daymond Langkow - I don't know what to say to you. I'm lost. Really. What? You had an assist? Ohhh.... I just picked you for my playoff pool so I would really appreciate some more points from you.
Craig Conroy - *glares at him* What do you have to say for yourself, Mr. Special Teams?
Marcus Nilson - I would say something to you but I just got distracted by my evil laughter at the guy on TSN saying that some Leafs who were at the Jays game got booed when introduced. Mwwaaa haaaa haaaaa.....
Alex Tanguay - No real issues with you. Maybe shoot a little more often which I hear, if you do, sometimes, SOMETIMES that leads to goals. I'm just saying.
Rhett Warrener - A minus two? Yuck. Improve or else I'm cutting your hair. Ooo! Or giving you a perm.
David Moss - Look, I still have some KD in the cupboard for you. I'm sure your nerves were running your mind tonight as you weren't your normal hitting self. I expect to see more of that next time.
Miikka Kiprusoff - Oh, Kipper... You make the most amazing saves. I'm sorry that the rest of the team couldn't be as great as you. Why don't you make them all dye their hair black?

That's about all. Let me know if you want me to add anything. I may either do a separate post about the so-called head ~~dumbass~~ coach our team has or I may decide to ignore him altogether since he pisses me off and I don't really feel like writing a post that will probably just be a bunch of swear words.

I had to run out after the first period to drop the dog off at Crazy Eight Ninja's house with the game paused, trusting my PVR to not fuck things up and stay that way until I got home. In the car on the way back, I received a text from the lovely Sherry. I couldn't bear to read it lest I find out the score so I waited until the game had caught up to live TV before I flipped the phone open. Here's what it said: Deep breaths. Just keep breathing. Thanks, hun. *hugs*

Round One, Game One: Yuslsdkfjaoieruteao

2007-04-12T17:15:00.000-04:00

lakdfjlsieo ajc4839uqa;dkjfa3u83qc
kdfja39853q4958ewc
sSDfd.s/,f392uqaL*(u98jfOSO^Y

It's true. That's the state of my mind RIGHT NOW.

This will be the state of my mind SOON.

As you may have guessed already, I am an emotional hockey fan not a logical one. I watch games wearing my heart on my sleeve. My mind is not a fan of math or numbers but I do keep an eye on stats, letting everyone else do the hard work of analyzing them. I have been putting off this game day post for hours, trying to think of what I want to say about the Flames giving it their all, coming out guns ablazin', what I think the Red Wings are going to do, I can't fucking believe we are supposedly getting Magoo, I wish Robyn wasn't hurt, blah blah blah... but I can't. With puck drop happening in a little over an hour, my heart is starting to pound in my ears, my breath becoming shallower, my palms sweating. And now Jordi and CapsChick and Leanne are all chatting with me as I freak the fuck out. No, really. I'm not a fun chatter. Well, maybe I am. Sherry knows. AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay. I'm fine. No. That's a lie. See why I was procrastinating on this post?

*.......thinks of something to say that is not insane rambling but fails*

Here we go, YAY OPTIMISM! and mad ninja stylings! GO FLAMES! FIRST PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR! WEEEOOOO! YOU CAN DO IT! KICK SOME RED WINGS ASS! OUR RED IS BETTER THAN THEIRS! KIPPER IS AWESOME! IGGY! DION! TANGS! DAYMOND! ACK! GO! GO! GO! GO! GO! GOOOOOooooooooooooo... *ninja kick*

PS. FLAMES RULE, RED WINGS DROOL-a-rooni-dooni

Get your party hats on!

2007-04-11T17:41:00.000-04:00

Boys and girls! Guess what! It's a birthday party for one of the best d-pairs ever! (well, maybe not ever but it's their birthday so let them have it.)

Yesterday was Dion's birthday, the big 22 and tomorrow is Roman's birthday, the big 33. Happy birthday boys! I have an idea for the best present EVER!

Win!
Win!
WIN!
WIN!

Well, present for me maybe not for you guys but does it really matter... NO!

Me + Predictions = Not happening

2007-04-11T13:11:00.000-04:00

Number one thing you need to know about me: I am a HUGE fucking procrastinator. I was dreading doing my own playoff predictions because a) I never make predictions and 2) um... I never make predictions. In place of my own, I offer up a smattering of predictions from some of my favourite bloggers out there (and yes, most of them picked the Flames).

As usual, MG steps up with a lovely trip to StatsLand, picking the Flames in 7.
Leanne beats her invisible friend Dave to the punch getting her pick of Flames in 6 up, using such technical turns as Bash and Smash, Zig and Zag, and Tit for Tat.
Kyle goes bananas with his multi-part playoff prediction. Thank goodness he only has to concentrate on the one team this post-season (and it's the right team).
Duncan gives his "Six Reasons Why The Flames Will Win."
My gal, the Magnificent Margee picks the Flames in 6 and asks a very important question, "Can Dion Phaneuf be Dion Phaneuf in the playoffs?"
Christy from Behind the Jersey is "praying and believing that the Wings have what it takes this postseason to beat Calgary in the first round. I doubt that either team would pull off a sweep so I expect it to go 5-6 games, most likely 6."
Steph and I will be having some rather heated convos over pie, I'm sure of it.

The only thing I'm going to say is what some have remembered - Remember last year and everyone was on Dion's case? HE HAD A BROKEN FOOT!

I have decided to just stick to my regular schedule of game day and post game posts for the time being. Want to take bets on how insane they are?

Time to reflect?

2007-04-08T17:16:00.000-04:00

Nah. Not yet.

But I couldn't let today pass without a game day post since it is the last day of the regular season. I don't really have much to say though... Is anyone really that surprised that Iggy, Langkow, Friesen and Regehr (as per TSN's Ice Chips and Duncan) aren't in Colorado? Do you think McCarty will play? It should be a lazy game tonight letting the Torontonian chapter of the Flames' Blogosphere enjoy sub-par nachos and lukewarm drinks in peace before the playoffs start and we become irrational. I'm putting YAY OPTIMISM! on the back burner for the game tonight. Just take it easy, boys. Don't let anyone get hurt. Give Noodles the start. Jimmy, you can wear a sweat suit for all I care.