Dovely's Days

Depressing, Isn't It?

2006-09-25T10:39:00.001-07:00

Well, so much for a unbeaten season. I'm sure everyone who is into Tide football knows of the loss to Arkansas this past weekend. Yeah, it was a one point loss, but really when all is said and done, it's still a loss, and to me this one was an oucher.

I knew this was going to be a tough game for us, as will be the rest of the SEC major teams. I have been of course keeping a watchful eye on the other teams, watching the games, and trying to evaluate how tough of a fight we will have with said teams.

Saturday's game was rough, but it should have been a win for us. I hate to blame Tiffin, it's not entirely his fault. As I'm sure many are aware, there were mistakes made that shouldn't have been made....there was a potential touchdown that was by-passed by the attempted and failed feild goal. Things to learn from yes.

That being said, I saw a great game from our newbie QB. Yeah, there is still a lot of growth to be accomplished on his behalf, but in all I really feel as if he did a great job. He did get sacked one to many times for my liking, but I did see some great potential and think he'll develop more and more throughout the season. I loved the couple of plays that used running back and former HS quarterback Jimmy Johns in conjuction with JP. I really want to see more of this, you have the talent, use it!!!

We have a lot of rookies out there, and at the end of the game they are beaten up and bruised, but they continue to fight. It's one of the many things I love about Alabama football. You can knock us down, talk as much crap about us as you like, but eventually we will come back to haunt you. It may not be this season, or even next, but we will bite you in the back end when it counts the most.

On to Florida, wich fortunately will be aired again by CBS. This one is going to be another tough one for us. Florida is taking full advantage of thier duo QB's, and what one can't do, the other will. Damn Tebow. Thier defense is a little weak (in my opinion) so we can use that to our advantage, and hopefully will.

Roll Tide, Roll.

I'm out.

Alabama 41 LMSU 7

2006-09-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I bet it was fun to watch. I enjoyed listening to it, that's for sure!!! Alabama game play action from several red shirts, and they did GREAT!!! Looks like we have some pretty good talent out there and if we can keep them all healthy we will be in for a few years of great football games!

I watched football pretty much all day yesturday. Started with the Vandy game against Arkansas. It was a pretty tough game to watch, because obviously with the Razorbacks being next on our schedule I wanted to see what we will be up against. The razorbacks are pretty quick and only beat Vandy by a point, so I think we are looking at a close game on the next round. If we can keep some of our quick runners in there it may be interesting for sure however I don't expect a blow out as we had with LMSU. I definately feel as if we should keep the Razorbacks on thier toes and do a lot of rotation with some of the kids who really wanna get out there and show thier stuff as they did in the game yesturday.

Auburn and LSU was the next ticket. Wow...that was an incredible game to watch. Alot of Defensive play, not much to the offense though. I am not a big fan of Auburn for obvious reasons, but their defense has improved immensely this season. I think we are looking a tough fight with both teams when our time comes. I have to say, this game was probably the best game I watched yesturday even though I had to fight myself about who I wanted to win when deep in my heart I wanted them both to loose. Yes, I know, someone had to win. Darn it.

Then there was Fat Fulmer and Florida. Gawd I was pretty sick of orange by then end of the night. Another tight game, but Florida pulled it out and defeated the Vols. Yea! We are in for a few really tough games ahead of us, and here's hoping we can hang tough and prove to the world that Bama is truly back!

I'm out.

2 down!

2006-09-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

Well, yeah. Two games down and this is the first time I have posted anything. Why? Well, I'm one of those "visual" type people and it's hard for me to write about something I hear rather than experience visually. May sound silly, but listening to the last two games on the radio just didn't do as much for me as watching them would have done. This week's game against Lousianna-Monroe, PPV, so I'll be listening again rather than watching. Argh. Let's get these darn games on television folks!!!!

I have heard that we could be seeing some playing time by Terry Grant...woohooo!!!! Hope he can go out there and show his stuff and possibly see him a lot more throughout the season. Personally, I would absolutely love to see Terry and John Parker do some sneaky quarterback options, bet it would catch whoever happens to be the opponnet entirely off gaurd!

For those of you who are not aware, I do have my own website now that has been keeping me very busy, wich also has a little to do with why I haven't been posting very much. It's a lot of work keeping up with making new graphics and keeping the pages updated. I have a lot of bama fans that visit my site, and I want to take this oppurtunity to thank you all for it!!! I would include a link, however at this time I am having some bandwidth issues, so I'll post it a bit later.

I hope those of you who actually get to "watch" the game this weekend enjoy it, and that you will think of me listening to it on the radio. lol.

I'm out.

I'm a Slacker, Protho Wins Espy!

2006-07-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know. I haven't been posting up to date lately. Off season and I have been having some unfortunate back problems that has been keeping me miserable.

I'm sure most are aware that Tyrone Protho did win the Espy, great news and it gives him something to fight for next season win he's back on the field. I don't know about the rest of you, but that play will forever be in my mind!

Just a note, because I have been missing way too much time from work due to my back problems, I have started another website to aide in the funds catagory. I have made quite a few fun Alabama related "glitters" and would love for anyone who stops by to go check it out!

Prothro Up for ESPY!

2006-06-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

Vote for Prothros Catch for ESPY Play of the Year
Release: 06/26/2006

As the 2006 Crimson Tide football season looms, Alabama fans have an opportunity to celebrate the 2005 season one final time, in particular Tyrone Prothros acrobatic catch against Southern Miss.

Voting for the 2006 ESPYs is open and fans can go to ESPY voting to watch and vote for Prothros catch.

Voting ends on July 9 at midnight Eastern Time. The ESPYs, hosted by Lance Armstrong, can be seen live on ESPN on July 16 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Please go Here to Vote!

Update-Tyrone Prothro

2006-06-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

Word is that Tyrone will be taking the medical redshirt for the 2006 Football Season. Last report says that he is still using his cruches, however he is doing some walking on his own. His rehab is going well and he has been seen catching the football on a couple of occasions. There is talk that it is a possibility that Tyrone may play towards the end of the season, however this has not been confirmed. I would imagine this would depend on his training and rehab.

This is sad news for those of us die hard Prothro fans. I personally was so looking forward to seeing Tyrone out there kicking some serious butt, but I can wait another season if I have too. As a sister of a former football player, I know how difficult it will be for Tyrone to sit on the side lines and feel helpless in the fight for every win.

Keep working hard, Tyrone! We will miss you this season, but looking forward to seeing you out there doing your stuff!

The day Bear Bryant died--->

2006-06-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

I'm helping out a friend who is trying to promote this song that was written on the day Paul W. Bear Bryant died.

Click here to listen to a sample of the song:

http://www.daybeardied.com/daybeardied.mp3

thanks!

Making Chages

2006-05-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

As you can see, I'm making some changes to Dovely's Days. I have taken out some stuff, and added some stuff. I'm still not finished, so check back for updates.

I'm out.

A Little Late--Anthony Madison

2006-05-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm really slacking here lately. Talk about having a million things on your to do list and only 24 hours to do the list in.

For those who are not aware, Anthony Madison who was not picked up in the draft was signed as a free agent with the Steelers. He'll be attending the mandatory three day mini-camp May 13-15th.

The Steelers have in the past managed to pick up some really good players who were not chosen the in the NFL draft, and I believe Anthony fits the bill. Good Luck Anthony!

The Draft is Over

2006-04-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

Well, the draft is over for this year folks. All and all I think the University made a great standing this year even though I'm quite surprised that Freddie and Anthony didn't get picked by any team. I wish them both all the luck in the world.

I looked around for information on reactions from the other players, however nothing has been posted as of yet.

**For those interested in Tyrone information, I have updated some information on him. Please click on the link above his picture in the sidebar.**

I'm out.

DeMeco Ryans

2006-04-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

What a great player, a great scholar, and a great person. As I mentioned last night he has been drafted by the Houston Texans and I couldn't be happier for him, or the other bama players who are on the draft board.

DeMeco has a website where he put in some small snippets of how his day went yesturday, as well as what is going on today for him. It was then I realized that he's leaving us for the big game. Yeah, I suppose I knew it all along, but for whatever reason once I read about him packing up to go to Houston it really set me back a little. I guess it's one of those things about college football that you never really get used too, players come and eventually they have to go as well.

We as fans get attatched to these players, they become part of our families. I don't regret it, as little of the NFL I watch these days you can rest assured I keep an eye out for the boys from Bama and I probably always will.

I only have one thing to add...guys, never forget where you started. There are a lot of fans who are going to be rooting you on from another state other than where you are playing!

Day 2 NFL Draft

2006-04-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well, yes, day two of the NFL draft has started and we are into round 5 at the moment.

Today Charlie Peprah has been chosen by the Giants, round 5, pick 158.

Mark Anderson has also been picked up by the Chicago Bears, round 5, pick 159.

Congrats guys! Freddie and Anthony are still up for the picking, so I will keep checking on it!

Done for the Night

2006-04-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

Well, that looks to be it for today folks. I'm quite surprised that Charlie and Freddie didn't get picked up in the 3rd round.

We'll see what tomorrow brings.

I'm out for the night!

Round 3

2006-04-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

Brodie Croyle has been drafted by the Chiefs, third round, pick number 85.

Round 2

2006-04-29T15:46:00.000-07:00

So, apparently I was way off on my prediction.

DeMeco Ryans has been drafted in the second round, 33rd pick by the Texans.

Roman Harper went shortly after to the Saints, second round, 43rd pick.

Good Luck to the both of you and of course the Crimson Nation will behind you in your future endeavors!

I'll post more picks as they come in!

NFL Draft Today

2006-04-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know, it's been a long time since I posted anything worth while. Sorry about that folks. Off season is play season for me and I have had some personal issues taking up time. I'm going to try to get back on track now that I'm feeling that football fever itch that I start scratching every year around this time. Starts to get warm and I know football is right around the corner.

As most are probably aware, today is the NFL draft. The University of Alabama has 7 players hoping to find themselves in the NFL.

They are as follows:

Mark Anderson
Brodie Croyle
Roman Harper
Anthony Madison
Charlie Peprah
Freddie Roach
DeMeco Ryans

We know these fellas well, and boy are we going to miss them, but our loss is some lucky NFL teams gain. I believe DeMeco Ryans will be a late first round draft pick to the Chicago Bears, but I guess we will see. Should know something within the next hour or so, and I will try and post as soon as I find out.

Incredible Stat's-Terry Grant Super Star?

2006-02-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

I was going over the new recruits stats this afternoon while lunching, and came across Terry Grant. Incredible doesn't do him justice, I don't think, and I don't recall much hype about him as being a hot recruit. I'm not sure if it was just because Alabama didn't think they had a shot on signing him, or what the deal is, but after seeing his stats and bio, I am thrilled to have him a part of the Crimson Tide Football Program.

Terry, who was named Mississippi's 2005 "Mr. Football" is surely a catch for the Tide and I see many great games ahead of him!

Let's take a look at his stats.

4 Star Recruit

Height: 5-foot-10

Weight: 188 pounds

40-yard dash: 4.45 seconds

Position: TB

Terry ran for 2,720 yards and 35 touchdowns as a senior. As a junior, he rushed for 2,615 yards and 31 touchdowns. In his high school carreer, he's had at whopping 8,020 yards and 115 touchdowns! Can you say WOW?????

I'm the first one to shout that there is such a big difference between HS football and College, however if Terry does half as well in College as he did when playing HS, we are in for a lot of really exciting football games here in Alabama.

To All of the Crimson Tide's new recruits, WELCOME TO THE CRIMSON NATION!!!!!!!

ROLL TIDE!

Congrats Coach Shula!

2006-02-02T18:48:00.000-08:00

As if yesturday wasn't a stellar day for Coach Mike Shula and the Crimson Tide, a new addtion was added to the team's roster along with the 26 signee's.

Shari Shula delivered the couple's third child, Ryan, on Wednesday morning, just moments before one of the nation's top high school seniors, Andre Smith, announced he was signing with the University of Alabama.

Coach Kines said of Shari, "She is going to get an extra star in heaven." Kines went on to say, "To be involved in recruiting like she was right up to yesturday and to be hosting recruits over the weekend. Bless her heart, she was about as pregnant as she could get. I really thought she was going to have a baby right there with a prospect. She deserves a gold medal."

Thanks to Shari Shula and Coach Mike Shula for all of their hardwork during the recruiting process. It's paid off, and I'm darn proud of the recruits that have decided to join a winning organization!

ROLL TIDE!

And So It Has Arrived

2006-02-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

Signing day is here...and pretty much over with at this point. Alabama did awesome with the recruiting, and I'm very proud of the effort that the coaching staff did to wrangle some of these prospects to the Capstone.

For a complete list of the recruits that Alabama signed today, check out Clay's Bama Page.

I for one breathed a very large sigh of relief at the news that Andre Smith chose the Capstone. I was really sweating that one because for whatever reason I felt he could easily choose another well deserving college.

Boy did we luck out with Earl Alexander and Greg McElroy!!! I can see many good things in both of these young players and can't wait to see what the coaches decide to do with them. I heard on the news this evening that Alexander may be in the running for the starting postion at QB next season, however I wouldn't want anyone to get thier hopes up either. If I have said it once, I have said it a million times. High School football and College football are two different things and there are a lot of aspects to take into consideration. I personally felt like in the few games that Wilson played in he moved the ball very well and got the job done when he needed too. I don't count him out, I think he could be strong at QB and with a great duo of Alexander and McElroy behind him we could be looking at a triple threat, and how cool would that be?

I am so wishing I was a coach right now because I would be out there working with these 3 strong QB's and playing them as well. Every person has thier strengths and weaknesses, but if you work around them, boy you can certainly do a lot.

I'm getting excited about the coming season, even though it's still months away and can't wait for opening day. Here's hoping my little brother will be nice enough to throw some tickets my way!!! :)

ROLL TIDE!

Always An Alabama Legend

2006-01-26T12:09:00.000-08:00

If you know anything about Alabama football, you know who this man is. Paul "Bear" Bryant is synonymous with Alabama, as well as winning.

Tuscaloosa is home to the Paul W. "Bear" Bryant Museum, and many former players and coaches look back at Bryant as the best coach there ever was.

23 years ago today, "Bear" passed away from heart failure, only 28 days after coaching his last game at the University of Alabama.

The media, the coaching staff, the players, and fans were all in shock and many in Alabama were at a loss of words with grief. I'm sure you can ask any Alabama fan where they were when they heard the news that "Bear" had passed away and they could easily tell you without a thought.

If you aren't a Alabama fan and don't understand what all the fuss is about over a former coach who is no longer with us, let me tell you.

Bryant left a legacy that encompassed more than 37 winning seasons overall and five Associated Press national championships at Alabama. No college coach in the second half of the 20th century commanded a bigger presence. Bryant became an icon, a symbol of strength and moral righteousness as much as success.

In Bryant's 38 year coaching career his record was 323-85-17. He took 29 teams to bowl games and led 15 to conference championships. In the 1960s and 1970s, no school won more games than Alabama (193-32-5).

Curious how Bryant got his nickname? He was told when he was 13 that if he wrestled a bear at a carnival he would be paid $1. Bryant came from a poor family of 12 and needed the money so did it. His ear was bitten, and he never got paid, but the nickname has never left him.

Coach Bear Bryant was born on Sept. 11th, 1913 and died on Jan. 26th, 1983 at the age of 69.

"He wasn't just a coach," former USC coach John McKay said. "He was the coach."

Shaun Alexander and Seahawks

2006-01-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Seahawks have done it, boys and girls. For the first time in 30 years, the hawks are taking thier game to the Super Bowl. Former Tide player, Shaun Alexander led the pack with a team playoff record setting 132 yards rushing and two fabulous touchdowns.

Don't know how many took the time to watch the game, but it was pretty much a shut out from the start and I personally couldn't tell at all that Shaun had suffered with any concussion at all that caused him to miss last weeks game. Super effort from Seattle and Congrats to Shaun and the entire Seahawk nation!

***Personal note***
Sorry for the delay in posting. Unfortunately due to a rather upsetting computer problem I have been offline for a couple of miserable weeks. I can't tell you how horrible it is to loose everything you have on disk..and I mean everything from graphics, to codings, family photos. Argh. I will learn to get a cd burner yet. Fortunately thanks to some very good friends...Anne and her hubby fixed me up a nice computer and I should be good to go for awhile! Thanks Anne!!!!
I will get back to work on the postings as well as my "extras" as soon as I have all software/hardware reinstalled on this machine!
***************

Game Changing performance

2006-01-05T17:41:00.000-08:00

Tyrone Prothro's amazing catch has won Pontiac's Game Changing Performer of the year as announced last night during the Rose Bowl.

Pontiac will donate a check for $100,000 to the University's general scholarship fund in Prothro's name. The Crimson Tide football team has been responsible for $150,000 worth of donations to the University's general scholarship fund this season. Alabama garnered five different Pontiac Game Changing Performances this season, receiving $5,000 for each honor and senior linebacker DeMeco Ryans earned an additional $25,000 for the general scholarship fund at Alabama when he was awarded the Lott Trophy given to the nation's outstanding defensive football player.

"It was an honor to be among the top four nominated," Prothro said. "It was real exciting to have the opportunity to make a play like that and now it has a chance to named play of the year." Tyrone broke his leg three weeks later in the Florida game and finished the season with 17 catches for 325 yards and three touchdowns. He averaged a team-best 19.1 yards per reception.

Congratulations to Tyrone and the University of Alabama! Roll Tide!

Former Tide running back Shaun Alexander has been named the 2005-2006 Associated Press National Football League MVP.

Shaun currently plays for the Seattle Seahawks and has had a record year with the NFL team. In 11 games he has rushed for more than 100 yards, and topped things off by pounding the Arizona Cardinals with 173 yards in rushing.

Shaun has also managed 27 touchdowns on the ground, and 1 as a reciever.

I don't know about anyone else, but I certainly remember Shaun from his days at the Capstone, and fond memories they are. Congrats Shaun!

Roll Tide.

A Sweet Ending-30th Bowl Win

2006-01-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

Ah, yes, the glory of a win. Not just any win, but a bowl game win. Yeah, so it wasn't pretty but a win is a win no matter how you get it.

Jamie Christensen pulled off another win with his career best 45 yard field goal after missing a 39 yard attempt, and a blocked attempt. How he does it, I really don't know, but he manages to pull off what would make you think he couldn't pull off. Once again many thanks go to Jamie for pulling off what many thought to be the impossible for the third time this season.

I have to say as I was watching Jamie's attempt at the field goal my stomach dropped to the ground and I was a little afraid to watch dreading the thought of a overtime repeat of what happened with LSU. From the angle that I saw, it looked as if he missed, it was too low, when that referee's hands went up in the air I was in shock and elated at the same time. After seeing the replay from a different angle I was in even more shock, but hey, he made it, the Tide made it, and yes, BAMA is back.

A quite a few changes were made to the Tide line up for this game, and I must say they were well needed and put to good use. Kudo's go to the Crimson Tide coaching staff for making the necessary changes and making things work as well as they did. I saw a much better team offensively than I saw in the last five regular season games. Too bad we can't manage month long practices before every game.

DeMeco Ryans had another fabulous game with seven tackles (two for losses), 1.5 sacks for another 12 yards lost, and numerous hassles, hurries, and hustles to keep Texas Tech on thier toes. He was honored with the Felix McKnight Defensive Most Valuable Player trophy for his performance in the Cotton Bowl and said "This was a must-win for us,” Ryans proclaimed, a function of a team that lost its final two games after winning the first nine. “To leave the field with the Cotton Bowl trophy, with our fans still in the stands cheering, giving them a victory, it couldn’t have been better.” Ryans went on to say that he was accepting the award on behalf of the entire defensive unit because they made his job easier. Always a class act and will always be number 1 in my book.

Brodie Croyle was also named as the Offensive Most Valuable Player for the Cotton Bowl and kudos to Ken Darby and many other players who made watching this game quite enjoyable.

This was the 53rd Bowl game the Tide has been in, and the 30th win. That's right. More than any other team in the NCAA.

Roll Tide.

43 days to Go

2005-12-20T17:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm sure most of you are saying, nuh uh...only 5 days to Christmas! I'm not talking about Christmas in this instance though. I'm talking Signing day.

So far the Tide has racked up a bunch of verbal commitments from some great prospects. Most recently Earl Alexander, Ricardo Wright, and Justin Woodall.

Earl Alexander **** (4 Star)
Ht: 6-4
Wt: 203
40: 4.55
Position: QB
Projected as: WR, QB
Position Rank: 22
Year: Class of 2006
High School: Central HS(Phenix City, AL)

Earl made his verbal commitment to Alabama on Dec 15th. He hopes to vie for the position of Quarterback, however he may be moved to wide reciever where many believe he is very strong.

Personally I would love to see Alabama use a 2 QB system using each QB throughout each game, playing on each QB's strengths, opening up the field for many QB options. With Earl's strength in both positions (WR, QB) there are many tricky plays that could be used with the starting QB and Earl on the field at the same time. Yeah, so I like to be sneaky, but I bet it would shock the crap out of some folks and make for some outstanding plays.

Recardo Wright **

Ht: 6-2
Wt: 215
40: 4.65
Position:LB
Projected as: LB
Position Rank: NR
Year: Class of 2006
High School: Dr. Phillips HS(Orlando, FL)

Recardo is said to be one of the fastest line backers around. Who couldn't use a fast line backer? :)

Justin Woodall ***

Ht: 6-1
Wt: 200
40: 4.75
Position:CB, WR
Projected as: S, WR
Position Rank: 33
Date of Birth: 11/6/1987
Year: Class of 2006
High School: Lafayette HS(Oxford, MS)

Justin completed his senior year with a total of 16 interceptions on Defense, and caught 30 passes for a total of 750 yds a 8 TDS offensively. Justin is sure to be an asset to the Tide with his quick hands and quick feet!

Well, folks this wraps it up for me this evening. I truly hope that everyone has a wonderful Christmas filled with lots of joy and love. I'm out of town for the holiday, and hopefully will be able to post a little something before the Cotton Bowl.

Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men (and Women!) and Roll Tide.

Tebow picks Florida

2005-12-13T20:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, if you haven't heard the news, Tim Tebow ranked as one of the best dual threat quartbacks in the nation has chosen Florida and Coach Urban Myer as his choice for his college career. Tebow will see playing time right away behind Leak and should be on schedule to take over the starting job in 2007.

Yeah. Bummer. Oh well, that's how the cookie crumbles. I kinda figured Tebow would lean towards Florida being that he has ties with the college, although I had hoped for a Bama pick. No worries though, I'm sure the Tide will do well with what we are going to get as far as recruits go.

Well, tomarrow is my birthday, and it's really past my bedtime so I'm outta here.

Roll Tide.

Tebow or not to Tebow

2005-12-12T17:30:00.000-08:00

Anyone who is keeping up with the recruiting situation for Alabama is looking at this kid with big eyes.

He's 6'3, 217lbs, runs the 40 in 4.69 seconds, lifts close to 400lbs and is a left handed quarterback.

His name is Tim Tebow, and he'll announce the lucky college of his choice Dec. 14th at 10pm on ESPN.

What a wonderful birthday gift that would be for me. I would love nothing more to hear those two little words come from this QB's mouth...Roll Tide.

Of course on all the Bama boards in internetdom the buzz is that he'll choose Alabama, and vice versa on the Florida boards.

I read on one particular recruiting blog that the Florida coaching staff attended the championship game for Nease high school and sat and hugged family members after the win. Can't be good for Bama if you ask me.

Then comes team mate Charlie Kirschman who has already committed to Alabama and places a Alabama hat on Tim's head. Thanks so much Charlie! I have read several reports that have stated the Charlie is really trying to get his team mate to choose Alabama.

I would really like to say that I have a feeling that Tim is going to choose Alabama. I can't say that though. Facts are that Tim is going to choose the school that gives him the best offer, a promise that he'll play, a promise that he'll get that scholarship, a promise for his future.

I really hope that Tim chooses Alabama, quite frankly I don't want to see Alabama playing against him at Florida or any other school.

One thing we all have to remember though. Just because they are great in high school, doesn't necessarily mean they will be great in College. There are a lot of differences between playing high school ball and college ball, a lot more pressures. I guess the only way we can find out what Tim or any other recruit will do is sit back, wait, and watch.

I hope that sit down with Coach Shula did the trick.

Tide News for Today

2005-12-06T17:41:00.000-08:00

DeMeco Ryans has been named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press.

DeMeco was also a unanimous First-Team All-SEC pick at linebacker.

Ryans played in 11 games and led UA with 69 tackles. He was second on the team with 3 1/2 sacks (-31) and 13 tackles for loss (-46) this year. He also added four quarterback pressures, two forced fumbles, two PBUs, one interception and one fumble recovery. Ryans is fifth all-time at Alabama with 300 career tackles. Ryans anchored an Alabama defense that ranked first nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 10.7 points per game. The Crimson Tide will likely finish the 2005 season with the fewest points allowed since the 1996 defense gave up 143 points (11.0 per game).

University of Alabama head coach Mike Shula has been named the AFCA's
Regional Coach of the Year.

The 2005 Regional Coach of the Year winners will be recognized at the AFCA Coach of the Year Dinner at the 2006 AFCA Convention in Dallas. The dinner is scheduled for January 10.

Prothro’s catch is one of four finalists for the ESPN Pontiac Game-Changing Performance of the Year.

The winner will be announced at halftime of the BCS National Championship game on Jan. 4, 2006 on ABC Sports. Pontiac will make a $100,000 donation to the winning school’s general scholarship fund.

Prothro’s catch against Southern Miss was one of five weekly winners by Alabama this season.

Other UA winners this season were Brodie Croyle’s 46-yard pass to Keith Brown at South Carolina, Croyle’s 87-yard TD pass to Prothro vs. Florida, Roman Harper’s caused fumble vs. Tennessee and Matt Miller’s fumble return of a second half kickoff at MIss. State. Pontiac awarded Alabama $5,000 for each Pontiac Game Changing Performance this season, totaling $25,000 to the general scholarship fund.

To vote for Prothro’s catch as Pontiac Game Changing Performance of the Year log on to espn.com and the keyword is Pontiac.

Don't forget, you can vote once per week, so vote often!

Cotton Bowl Confirmed

2005-12-04T16:44:00.000-08:00

It seems as thoughts of a Alabama and Texas Tech match up have been confirmed according to CollegeFootballNews.com. I also checked the Cotton Bowl website, however they must be updating it because I keep getting a notice saying that the page can not be loaded at this time. If you are interested in checking out what teams are going where as far as the Bowl games, check out that link I provided, lists all the games/times/teams etc. I counted 8 SEC teams in Bowl games this year. Not bad, not bad at all. Not that it surprises any SEC fans, but as always the SEC powerhouse is still in business.

A side note here. I recieved a couple of emails from shocked men who just couldn't believe that I am a woman who knows as much as I do about football. C'mon guys. There are a select (cough) few of us out there who might actually know what we are talking about as far as football goes. To sum up: My dad wanted boys, what he got was two girls before getting that boy. Needless to say as kids my sister and I were into every dirty sport we could get into. I was more into them than my sister however and it's stuck with me through my adult life. (If I could count how many times I went home with holes in my jeans from playing tackle football with the guys in gravel dirt I would indeed be a rich woman.) I have loved the sport of football for a great many years and on occasion have joked with my father that I could be a SEC referee just as well (if not better *smile*) as any of those guys out there. I must say, it's a pretty powerful thing for a woman to get into a conversation about a football game with a bunch of guys and prove that she may actually know more about the team and the sport than they do. (It's also quite entertaining, I might add..at least for me.)

All that being said, yes, I am indeed a woman, a pretty cute one at that (sorry fellas, I'm married, odd thing is he hates football!) I'm a Crimson Tide fan, and most of the time I actually know what I'm talking about, at least as far as football goes. :)

Enough of that now. I just checked the Cotton Bowl site and it does indeed confirm Alabama and Texas Tech.

Also, today while browsing the internet for information on Texas Tech I stumbled across a super site that has in depth information on the recruiting situation for Alabama. You should really skip over there and check it out...I sure hope he is right about Tebow! Check out Clay's Bama Page.

Still Waiting on Word

2005-12-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, the torture is about killing me. I hate to wait. I want to know now who is going where as far as the bowl games. Ok, to be honest, I'm really only concerned about where Alabama is going.

Georgia 34- LSU 14
I don't generally watch too many games if Alabama isn't playing but I did watch the Georgia vs. LSU game yesturday. (Seems this season I have watched a few too many "outside" games.) I never realized how hard it is to watch a game when deep down in your soul you really couldn't give a darn who wins or looses. I understand that it being the SEC title game that it was a bit longer time wise, but I swear I thought the game would never be over with. Georgia made LSU look really bad pretty much from the start of the game. Shocking? Well, I don't know about that. Don't get me wrong, LSU is strong in a lot of aspects and lucky in others. It just so happened there luck ran out when they met Georgia.

Congrat's to Georgia for gaining the SEC title. (Oh the pain of it!)

Crazy Football
Football is a funny sport in some aspects. My mother made an interesting comment about how she heard a coach once say that any team can win or loose a game at any point during the season and that it really doesn't matter how good or bad that team may be. I hate to think that any game is left to fate or chance, but I'm starting to discover that this statement can be very true indeed.

Anyone can look at the goings on of college football this past season and will discover that there have been a few upsets as well as some really intriguing wins from teams that were at one point or another not even ranked in the polls. It really has been a crazy season.

A month ago I don't think anyone would have thought that Alabama wasn't going to be in the SEC title game. Ok, so there were probably those who hoped they wouldn't, and they got thier wish, but just as an example look what ended up happening. Who would have thought that not one team in the SEC would go undefeated? Georgia pretty much had a stellar season but managed a loss against Florida. Florida was upset not once, put twice, and one of the teams didn't have such a stellar season. (South Carolina) Auburn and Alabama both upset by overtime wins by LSU. Every team in the SEC had something go wrong at some point in the season where the football gods just decided to make things a bit more interesting than in the past.

What does this mean? I really have no idea, but I predict next season will be quite interesting. Much of the SEC is improving to standards much above what they have been in the past. Georgia, LSU, Auburn, Florida and Alabama all had really great programs this year, and next year South Carolina will be included in this mix. Say what you want about Spurrier, but he does a good job and gets the job done. South Carolina had a rough time the first part of the season but improved with every game. Yes, they will be a contender next year, indeed.

Cotton Bowl Bound????
Papers in these parts are still printing that the Cotton Bowl wants a Alabama vs. Texas Tech matchup for the Cotton Bowl to be aired by Fox on January 2nd. Here it is 11:30am and there still has been no confirmation of this. A recent online poll wants to see the Alabama-Tech matchup compared to a LSU-Tech matchup by 73%. Go figure. Alabama has a history at the Cotton bowl as well as a couple of great former coaches from the state of Texas. (Gene Stallings (played for Bear) and former great Paul "Bear" Bryant.)

The Crimson Tide practiced for the first time this past week since the loss to Auburn. Coach Shula says that this year that want to be prepared for the bowl game no matter who they play as compared to last year when they didn't start practicing until a couple of weeks before the game.

The Tide will have thier hands full if the bout is against Texas Tech. From everything I have read on them, this is a highly intense football team who loves to pass the ball. That could be a good thing for the tide being that we have a couple of great players who love to steal those passes, but at the same time, it's hard to predict what will really happen.

The Crimson Tide will definately have to work on thier concentration and forget about what has happened (the two losses against LSU and Auburn) go out there and play a great game of football. It's reported that seniors want to go out with a win. It would have been much sweeter had that win been against Auburn, but at this point there is no looking back, only forward. A bowl win may not be much, but it would make a lot of fans happy here in this state.

Back off the QB
Alabama fans are something else. I know, because I am one of them. Loyal to a fault until something bad happens and then it's called the blame game.

I look at this from a different perspective than most because my brother was a quarterback for a winning high school football team at Newport HS in Newport, NH. (I bet there are a few out there who still remember him fondly.)

If the team is winning, the QB is the #1 man on earth. You loose, and the QB takes all the flames and all the blames.

The quarterback of any team has a lot of responsibility and a lot weight on his shoulders. Of course the QB is the leader of the team and of course the players look to him for those leadership skills.

Brodie has proven his leadership abilities in more than one game this season but now is being belittled by some Alabama fans because of the perfromance of the last two games. I am not denying how important these games were, but Brodie shouldn't take the heat for a team effort that failed.

TEAM. This is the key word here. There are a lot of aspects that go into a team, it's not just the QB, or the RB who was injured, the center, the kicker, the defensive end or even the coach(es). The entire team has to unite as a unit in order to fulfil the outcome that they are looking for. Unfortunately in the last two games there was lack of communication, lack of concentration, or just a lot of lack.

If you want to place blame, how about we blame those fellas who should have been blocking Brodie on one of the 11 times he was sacked. Blame the coach for not pulling Brodie out of the game sooner so he could get his barrings back to where they should have been. Blame the recievers who couldn't catch the ball when it was thrown right at them. Blame the team for not having thier focus where it should have been. I probably could sit here and go on for antoher ten minuets about who should be blamed for what, but it's pointless to do so.

When we were winning all the fans were out there wanting Brodie's autograph, patting him on the back telling him how great of a job he was doing, and now that there are a couple of losses under us, Brodie falls in the eyes of the fans. This isn't the way it should be at all. Brodie and the team had a great season and should be thanked by the fans for the wonderful memories they have given us and patted on the back for what they have accomplished.

The Crimson Tide has come out from under a nasty shadow of doubt, sanctions, and accusations and in my opinion have prevailed and proven that you may knock us down, but it is only temporary and we will come back winning.

Roll Tide.

Tyrone Prothro still #1

2005-12-03T20:22:00.000-08:00

It seems Tyrone Prothro will never leave the minds of many college football fans for a long while. Weather you are looking for a picture of his fabulous catch, or video footage of the awful day he broke his leg in the game against Florida, Tyrone is consistently at the top for search hits to my lovely little blog. Believe me, I'm not complaining. He's a GREAT player and I adore him and his talent.

For this reason I had been thinking I should devote one post entirely to him and dole out as much information as I can muster up. :)

First, I don't know how many folks out there have seen Daniel Moore's "Immaculate Reception". It's fabulous. Wish I had the dough to shell out for this one, but even if I did, they are sold out. If you are lucky you may be able to find one or two listed on Ebay, but I wouldn't hold your breath too long. "The Catch" in the pic above is also sold out, but you can still buy 8x10 prints for $30. This Immaculate Reception isn't the one by Daniel Moore (I don't think because the one I saw on Ebay was different, just can't find it now.) but there are prints left on this one. At least for now there are.

Anyone looking for video of "The Catch" visit The Houndstooth Huddle, scroll down to videos and you will be able to download your own copy.

If you are looking for video footage of that awlful day when Tryone broke his leg you can find it by clicking here. For those faint at heart beware. I cringe everytime I see this.

UPDATE:04/30/06 Medical

Tyrone had his second surgery to replace the steel rod in his leg on Feb. 21, 2005. The surgery has been deemed a success and doctors believe that Tyrone's rehabilitation will be quick from here on out. Tyrone has not been able to participate in spring practices, however he has been working on his upper strength and hopes now that the second surgery has been completed that he will be ready and on the field come fall. The coaching and training staff reminds fans that there will be no certainty of weather Tyrone will return this fall due to the fact that in "normal" cases it takes up to a year for the healing of such a severe injury. Things should be made clearer come June when summer practices start.

If you would like to send Tyrone a note to say hi, wish him well, or whatever, please send inquiries to:

Tyrone Prothro
c/o Alabama Football
Box 870323
Tuscaloosa, AL. 35487-0323

You can visit TyroneProthro.com and leave Tyrone a message, however the site has not been updated since sometime in October. It is heartwarming to read the messages though, so you should take a peek at what other fans are saying. (Wish I had thought of buying THAT domain name!)

Some on Ebay are selling "Prothro 4 Heisman 2006" T-shirts. Big fans out there will want one, just go to Ebay and do a search for "Tyrone Prothro".

Updated! Tyrone and his "catch" won the Pontiac Game Changing award for 2005. Pontiac will donate a check for $100,000 to the University's general scholarship fund in Prothro's name. The Crimson Tide football team has been responsible for $150,000 worth of donations to the University's general scholarship fund this season. Alabama garnered five different Pontiac Game Changing Performances this season, receiving $5,000 for each honor and senior linebacker DeMeco Ryans earned an additional $25,000 for the general scholarship fund at Alabama when he was awarded the Lott Trophy given to the nation's outstanding defensive football player.

If I have missed anything or you would like for me to add some information, please feel free to give me a shout and I will see what I can do. Any hey, if you want you can steal this:

updated 04/30/06

Bowl Chatter

2005-11-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and got stuffed full of Turkey! I know I did. I had a great time with my folks, managed to get a bit of work done, and did a "little" shopping. :)

Hopes for a Auburn berth to the SEC championship game is done and over with. As if you haven't heard yet but LSU managed a win over the Razorbacks, barely, mind you. (LSU 19-Arkansas 17) Needless to say, it's going to be Georgia (won over Georgia Tech, also a very close game) and LSU in the championship game. Hate to go with Georgia to win, but I will. Still some residule bad feelings toward LSU, so I hope the Bulldogs take them down!

Seems that the Bowl announcements have been put off until after the SEC championship coming up this weekend. There is much speculation on who is going where at this point, but the "buzz" around here is that the Cotton Bowl wants Alabama with a match up against Texas Tech. Things can change at this point and the whole bowl scenario could change with the outcome of the SEC championship game. I suppose instead of getting our hopes up we should just wait and see what happens. Texas Tech would be rough on the Tide I think, and I'm not even going to predict who will win that match up, if it happens. The SEC has 6 bowl eligible teams this year.

Not a Pretty Game, Iron Bown Loss 28-10

2005-11-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

If we had taken out the first quarter of the game there may have been something to talk about, but things were pretty much over at the end of the first quarter.

Talk about a dissapointing loss. I expected to see a much more intense game than what I saw, and quite frankly was so upset and irritated that I had the thought of shutting the game off after the first quarter.

As if the first quarter wasn't bad enough, Brodie Croyle was sacked a total of 11 times. Yes, 11 times. We all know that there have been blocking issues over the last four games, but this was outright embarrassing.

As ugly as it was, I'm still pround of the boys. DeMeco Ryans and a few other players went out there and really tried to make up for the first quarter, but for whatever reason I don't think they were mentally into the game the way they should have been and from the outset you could tell who wanted the win more. It certainly wasn't the Tide.

I'm guessing tomarrow we will find out witch bowl game the Tide will be attending. Irregardless of the ugliness of the Iron Bowl, the have earned it, they have had a tough season, but it's been a fun one. I don't think anyone will ever forget that outstanding catch by Tyrone Prothro, or that glorious win over Florida. They did good. Next year promises to be even better and I'm already looking forward to every second of it. A healthy senior Prothro (so glad to see him out of that wheelchair, means there is progress!) some outstanding recruit possiblities, oh yes. We have not yet begun to give up.

National singing day isn't until Feb. 6th, however I am guessing there will be a few "intent letters" within the next couple of weeks. The tide is recruiting a lot of really great players and if we can manage to rope a couple of them next season will be even more outstanding than this one. I'll get into this a bit more after the thanksgiving holiday and focus on some of the potentials that the tide is trying to recruit as well as some of the boys that will be back for next season.

Still hoping for the LSU loss and a berth hope for the Tigers. My guess that is if anyone has even a glimmer of hope in beating them it's the razorbacks, but I'm not holding my breath on that one. Sure would love to see a Auburn vs Georgia rematch.

That's it for me today, folks. I have so much to do in preperation of Thanksgiving. My folks are coming down and there is much to do before they get here!

It's all about the Iron Bowl

2005-11-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's that time again, boys and girls. It's that game where no matter what has happened all season, this is really the game that counts. Couldn't care less if the Tide lost every game during the season, as long as they beat Auburn. This is how most around these parts feel. It's bigger than the Super Bowl around here, believe it or not. You can't truly understand college football until you attend the Iron Bowl or experience the electrifying sparks flying from one end of the state to the other. Biggest game of the year. Bigger than a bowl game, bigger than the National Championship game, Bigger than the great state of Alabama!

All that being said, the Tigers are favored by 7 according the papers. ah, pish posh. Like I said in my last post, win or loose, as long as LSU gets beat and one of US goes to Atlanta, I don't care. Nah, that's not entirely true. I want the tide to go out there and whip up bad on the Tigers. It's going to be the game where win or loose, both teams have had an outstanding season and have nothing to be ashamed of, but it's bragging rights. Yes, that's it. Bragging rights.

Auburn has ousted us the last three years. Alabama has gone through some rough times with sanctions and coaches, but this year has been our blossoming year, the year we came back out of all the garbage to prove that we are a dominate force in college football. We have done it, but it won't be official until the Tigers go down.

I have been pretty quite this week, just listening to all the trash talk. It's always better not to defend the trash talk, because it's so much better when you have to smile come Sunday morning. I'm hoping for that smile. Roll Tide, right over those Tigers!

Plenty to Play For
written by Christopher Walsh
Tidesports.com

TUSCALOOSA On the evening of Oct. 22, University of Alabama senior quarterback Brodie Croyle couldn’t have been happier.

The Crimson Tide had just won a brutal game against rival Tennessee, 6-3, and Alabama fans everywhere were basking in the victory.

But Croyle had one somewhat disappointing moment that night, when he looked up at a television screen and saw that LSU held on to defeat Auburn 20-17 in overtime.

Croyle wasn’t rooting against LSU, per se. He just wanted to face Auburn with the Western Division title on the line and both teams playing for a spot in the SEC Championship.

He wanted it to be potentially the biggest Iron Bowl ever.

“You can’t be where you totally want to be at Alabama without beating Auburn,” Croyle said. “You can’t say that you had a great season if you don’t beat Auburn. You can go 10-1 and not beat Auburn and everyone can still wonder why you didn’t have a good season.”

Although Sports Illustrated proclaimed “Bama is Back,” more than a month ago following the impressive 31-3 victory against then-No. 5 Florida, the players don’t see it that way — especially the seniors.

“It’s not done yet,” senior linebacker DeMeco Ryans said. “We have to beat Auburn to make it, to put Alabama back where it needs to be.”

At many schools across the country, players will say similar things because that’s what you do when talking about your rival.

The difference is that here they really mean it, and feel it, each and every year.“It’s hard to describe,” coach Mike Shula said. “When I made that statement when I first got here, people were like, ‘You can’t say it like that. You should say it’s like the Super Bowl.’ But it’s not like the Super Bowl because to me it’s more intense than a Super Bowl because it’s a different type of crowd. The closest thing you can get in my experience is the AFC or NFC Championships, when you’re playing at home or you’re playing on the road and everything’s on the line, there’s no tomorrow, those type of things.

“When my high school buddies came up here for the first time, and they’re big college football fans, they had all been to some pretty big universities and they had no clue what this game was all about. My brother coming up here, my dad coming up here, it’s an electrifying atmosphere. Anybody who plays or coaches in it will remember it for the rest of their lives.”

Even though Alabama’s national championship aspirations were dashed by last week’s 16-13 overtime loss to LSU, and Saturday’s winning team will need help to order to play the Eastern Division champion in Atlanta, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot on the line.

For example, bowl invitations are at stake. Alabama (9-1 overall, 5-1, SEC) has an excellent chance to be one of eight teams involved in the Bowl Championship Series, and with a victory might head to the Fiesta Bowl to play Notre Dame.

A loss and the Crimson Tide appears slated for the Cotton Bowl.

Should it win, Auburn (8-2, 5-1) might get an invitation to the Capital One Bowl, where it would face a Big Ten team like Wisconsin, in arguably the biggest non-BCS game.

A loss might make Auburn bound for the Peach Bowl or Outback Bowl, depending on how other things play out.

Additionally, a win guarantees either team no worse than being co-division champions.

For Auburn, it would be the fifth division title in six years. Alabama’s hasn’t been atop the standings since 1999, the longest stretch since the SEC introduced divisions in 1992, and in Tuscaloosa the equivalent to an eternity.

But in many respects those tangible results are about as important to the players and fans as the Foy Trophy, the symbol of sportsmanship that is awarded to the winning team.

What’s really at stake in the Iron Bowl can’t be put down on paper, or understood by those who have never, in one form or another, lived it.

“The whole state shuts down,” Croyle said. “This is for bragging rights for the rest of the year. This is THE game. This is what everyone looks forward to all year. “At either school, if you go 1-10 and beat Auburn, you’re all right with everyone. Forget the other 10 losses, you beat Auburn and that’s all that matters.”

Specific to this year’s game, though, are the legacies of those who stuck things out through probation, coaching changes and other turmoil.

Even though Croyle is already Alabama’s all-time leading passer, he’s 0-1 against Auburn as a starter. Should he end up on the losing end again, one has to wonder how he’ll be perceived years from now — as merely beloved by Tide fans or considered one of the all-time greats like Joe Namath and Kenny Stabler.

Same goes for the rest of the senior class. Can Ryans be mentioned in the same breath as Derrick Thomas if he doesn’t get a win against Auburn?

“They want more than being known as seniors who laid the foundation from here on out,” Shula said. “They want to go out on a winning note. It’s tough when you lose and you don’t play as well as you want to, especially when you lay everything on the line, and that’s what these guys have done more so than any other time I’ve been here. These guys have fought all year.”

As an Alabama quarterback, Shula won against Auburn his junior year, thanks to Van Tiffin’s 52-yard field goal, but lost as a senior. He has yet to beat Auburn as a coach.

“It’s about finishing strong and we want to finish the season strong,” he said. “We want to finish games in a winning-type manner, which we thought we had done except for last week. The seniors want to finish their careers strong, and obviously this would be a great way to do that, to win this week. We know what kind of challenge it’s going to be.”

Auburn fans claim the 1989 victory against No. 2, the first on the Plains, as one of the program’s biggest wins. They relish in 1972’s “Punt, Bama, Punt,” and are still upset about Stabler’s 1967 run in the mud.

Of course, it works both ways. While Alabama is 3-4 all-time against teams with Heisman Trophy winners, two of those wins came against the Tigers.

Quarterback Pat Sullivan lost to Alabama 31-7 in 1971, and while running back Bo Jackson is revered for, among other things, his fourth-and-1 lunge over the top to secure a 23-22 victory in 1982, he was on the losing side in 1985, 25-23.

“It’s the Iron Bowl,” sophomore defensive end Wallace Gilberry said. “We don’t want that bad taste in our mouths like last season.”

A year ago, Alabama was down to its third-string quarterback, running back, fullback and tight end, yet still went out and dominated the first half.

“It wasn’t anything other than players playing hard,” defensive coordinator Joe Kines said. “It was the Alabama-Auburn game.”

It wasn’t until into the second half that Auburn, which was tied with Oklahoma for second in the Associated Press poll, reached the end zone and pulled out a 21-13 victory at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

However, the Tigers subsequently dropped to No. 3 in the polls and any chance they had of playing for the national championship was gone.

“Every one that I have been in, you all think that is the game of the year,” Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville said. “Everyone has big games like that. This is a big game this year for us and there is a lot on the line.”

The last time the two teams combined for 19 victories coming in was 1994, when they were 19-0-1. They were 19-0 in 1971, and both ranked in the top six of the Associated Press poll.

But no one will be mentioning records or rankings before this game.

“We don’t have to do anything,” offensive coordinator Dave Rader said. “All we have to say is, ‘Look who we’re playing.’”

So what’s at stake? Nothing, everything, and all the things in between. That’s what an Iron Bowl is all about.

“You don’t want to have any regrets when it comes to this game,” Shula said.

~~~~~~~~~

Win or loose, I have no regrets, and the Tide shouldn't either. Roll Tide!

Ouch, It hurts...Tide downed 16-13

2005-11-14T14:55:00.000-08:00

Yeah, it sucks. A winning season pounced on by a stupid 3 point margin. There are many emotions you can use to describe the upset of Alabama fans, as well as the UA team members. Anger, Sadness, disappointment...I'm sure I could go on for an hour. The Tide did great the first half, while LSU didn't do so hot, course that didn't hurt my feelings so much. Second half was a entirely different story. Bama couldn't manage to even accomplish completed passes much less anything else. To be truthful, neither could LSU. It was pretty much back and forth most of the second half after the game was tied 10-10. There looked to be hope in the final few minuets of a game that were shattered with an incomplete pass taking the Tide into overtime.

Unfortunately, had the luck of the coin been different, (I think the only time we have won a coin toss was when Conde tossed it) the outcome of the game would have been different. Both Teams fought hard throughout the game, but seriously speaking, had Alabama won the coin toss, I seriously think we would have been looking at a win. I never understood why college football decides a game on the basis that they do. Highschool football (last I knew anyhow, however things may have changed since the last time I watched a highschool game) played a another quarter in the instance of overtime. Seems only fair to me. Oh well. What's done is done and there isn't much anyone can do about it now, except look ahead to next week's Iron Bown and Auburn.

Word is that Alabama's hopes of even making it to the SEC championship game in Atlanta are if LSU loses one of it's next two games against Mississippi, or Arkansas (doubtful they will loose, although we are hoping). If I'm looking at the standings correctly, of course this assuming that Alabama beats Auburn next week, LSU and Alabama would be tied in the SEC standings even if they (LSU) won the next two games. I'm guessing because LSU beat both Auburn and Bama they would get the nod, although In my opinion I would like to see a tie breaker game weather it be Auburn or Alabama because quite frankly I don't think LSU would be that lucky with a rematch against either team. I have said it before, as much as I dislike Auburn, I would rather see them in Atlanta if it can't be my beloved Alabama.

The season isn't over yet, and it has been quite memorable up to this past week. I'm darn proud of the Tide and I can't wait for next season to get started because after taking a peek at some of the recruits Alabama is going after, we will have another winning season, and I predict we will take it all the way! I will get a bit more into the Recruiting situation after the season is over, because really, until there is commitment, there is no need to get too excited right now.

Tide News

2005-11-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

Brodie Croyle has been named a semi-finalist for the Davey O'Brian Award. Brodie is one of 15 finalists that will be narrowed down to 3 on Nov. 22nd.

The Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award is presented annually to the nation's best college quarterback.

It's reported that Brodie missed the bus back to Tuscaloosa from Starkville after Saturday's game against Mississippi. Instead of riding on the bus Brodie decided to ride home with his best friend and injured center J. B. Closner in the ambulance.

Brodie manfully faced the press despite being frustrated by his sub-par day and concern for his friend, took the responsibility on himself.

“If you want to blame somebody, blame me,” Croyle said. “I’m the quarterback. It’s my job to get us in the end zone. If we don’t get there, it’s my fault.”

Coach Shula downplayed Brodie's reaction saying that if he had been happy with the outcome of Saturday's game everyone would have wondered what was wrong with him.

The tide managed two touchdowns and one field goal against Mississippi, however none of the goals were offensive related.

When Coach Shula was asked what the bigger picture for the offensive struggles other than losing one guy in Tyrone Prothro he stated:

“Well I think we’ve got to play more consistently. If we do that, then the points will come and the production will come. It’s offensive football and we’ve got to have 11 guys doing their job. We lost a great player and now we lost our center who was a three year starter. You can’t deny the fact that we might not be as effective without them, but you’ve got guys like a healthy Brodie Croyle and Ken Darby, receivers that are more experienced than they were this time last year, and the other guys on the offensive line are more experienced than they were earlier in the year. "

Roman Harper
Crimson Tide senior free safety Roman Harper has been announced as a semi-finalist for the 2005 Thorpe Award, given annually to the nation’s best college defensive back.

Harper is one of 12 semi-finalists for the award which will be announced on ESPN's College Football Awards Show, telecast live from Disney World in Orlando, Florida on December 8, 2005.

Harper is 7th all-time at Alabama with 285 career tackles. He moved past Robbie Jones (1979-82) on the all-time list with two stops last week at Miss. State. Harper is third among active SEC defenders with 285 career tackles.

Crimson Tide sophomore cornerback Simeon Castille has been named this week’s SEC Defensive Player of the Week as announced by the league office in Birmingham this morning.

Castille had quite a day blocking a punt and recording his fourth career interception. His acrobatic interception came in the third quarter of Alabama’s 17-0 victory over Mississippi State while his blocked punt came on Mississippi State’s very next possession. He also recorded a pass break-up and two tackles.

The honor is the first for Castille and the 10th this season for the Crimson Tide. Alabama has received some sort of SEC Player of the Week honor after all six conference games this season and has been recognized after seven of the team’s nine games overall.

Tyrone Prothro was named the league’s Special Teams Player of the Week on September 12 and running back Kenneth Darby was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 19. DeMeco Ryans (Defensive Player of the Week) and Jeremy Schatz (Special Teams) were honored on Sept. 26 by the conference. Brodie Croyle (SEC Offensive Player) and Mark Anderson (SEC Defensive Lineman) both received the honors on October 3 following Alabama’s victory over Florida. Christensen received the Special Teams Player of the Week honor on September 17. Christensen (special teams) and Ryans (Defensive) received the honors on September 24 following Alabama’s victory over Tennessee.

UA faces battle of philosophies
taken from TideSports.com
written by Cecil Hurt

There are plenty of reasons for the college football world to have its attention focused on this weekend’s game between Alabama and LSU -- and that attention will be here.

ESPN GameDay will be in town. There will be scouts representing seven bowls, including three BCS bowls. The Orange will have three representatives, and the Sugar and Fiesta will also be on hand. (The Rose Bowl will not send representatives because there is no “selection process" for the national championship game other than the BCS poll.)

Also watching will be the Capital One, Cotton, Outback and Peach bowls, the other SEC-affiliated bowls that still have a shot at Alabama or LSU.

They’ll probably see a great football game, but they might also see something more -- a battle of philosophies.

Alabama, not for the first time in its history, has been cast as this year’s paradigm for “winning ugly," which means winning tough, low-scoring defensive struggles by dominating unflashy stats like time of possession (Alabama leads the SEC) and turnover margin (Alabama is third in the SEC).

On the other hand, LSU is probably the closest thing the SEC has to the sort of “free-wheeling offense" that the national media seems to have endorsed as the mark of a “real" championship contender. After all, Urban Meyer has dismantled the last vestiges of the Steve Spurrier offense at Florida (those that survived the Ron Zook years) and the real Steve Spurrier doesn’t quite have a full complement of athletes at South Carolina yet. Georgia and Auburn both have good offenses, but don’t seem to have the big-play pizzazz of LSU.

The Tigers are second in the SEC in passing, trailing only one-dimensional Vanderbilt. They’ve even won an actual Pac 10-style shootout over a Pac-10 type team (Arizona State). And while it would be stretching the point to compare LSU’s offensive firepower to Southern Cal, the Tigers are probably the only SEC team that has a big-time playmaker at virtually every skill position.

“This is the best way to explain it," Alabama coach Mike Shula said at his Tuesday press conference. “You watch a tape of this offense and there are times you sit there and go 'wow.’ You’ll say to one of the other coaches 'watch this pass’ or 'watch this run.’ Then the special teams coach will come in and say 'watch this return.’

“We’ve played teams this season with good receivers, or good backs, but I don’t think we’ve played a team that had all that, plus a good offensive line to go with it."

LSU doesn’t just have playmakers. The Tigers are two-deep in playmakers: Joseph Addai and Justin Vincent at tailback, for instance, or Skyler Green, Early Doucet, Craig Davis and Dwayne Bowe, all gifted wide receivers (and, in Green’s case, the best punt returner in the SEC as well.) That’s a credit to the talent stockpile that Nick Saban built up during his tenure in Baton Rouge.

The key, as with any offense, is quarterback Jemarcus Russell. The Tiger junior is naturally blessed with a massive frame and a mighty arm, but now, according to Shula, he’s a mature field general as well. His statistics back that up: He’s second in the SEC in passing efficiency, and has thrown just one more interception (five) than Brodie Croyle (four.)

“I think it’s just something that comes with age," Shula said of Russell. “His confidence level is better. He does a great job of managing their offense."

No team has held LSU to less than 20 points this season, although that does come with a small asterisk, since the Auburn game was 17-17 at the end of regulation. No team has scored 20 points in a game on the Alabama defense. (Again, a small asterisk, but Southern Miss’ 21 came thanks to an interception return for a score.) Both teams have won in their own way, but something has to give on Saturday night -- and the college football world will be watching to see what it is.

More BCS BS

As if anyone hasn't heard by now, Miami moved up in the BCS polls to number 4 even though they have one loss on thier record. Alabama moved up in the poll to number 3. I think I have made my feelings on the way the BCS is determined pretty clear. It should be trashed. It's garbage and I don't think a teams "performance" during a game should have anything to do with thier ranking. If that was the case, back the week of the Florida game, Alabama should have been ranked number 1 rather than 5.

The LSU at Alabama game will be televised by CBS at 2:30pm CST.

It's going to be a tough game. LSU has many advantages over the Tide especially a healthy roster with strong abilities.

Don't count Alabama out though. As it has been stated before, the Tide is tough and has the ability to overcome the odds.

Just when you don't expect it, EXPECT it. I'll be watching along with many others and hoping for a big win. :)

Bama 9-0 Another Win 17-0 Over Miss

2005-11-05T19:42:00.000-08:00

It wasn't pretty. Not at all. Whole first half, crap. Between the penalties and the mishaps, I'm surprised anyone managed to score.

At the half it was 3-0, Alabama on top with a field goal by Jamie Christensen. Bama's defense, as always on top of the game and didn't allow the two turnovers that Alabama allowed to turn into touchdowns for Mississippi.

Second half, well, it was a little better than the first for sure. Within two minuets of the second half Alabama managed to score two touchdowns, thanks to the quick wit of the special teams unit, and the defensive unit. Unfortunately the Tide's offense was hit hard with a injury to center J.B. Clossner and the second stringer wasn't as in to the game as he could have been. Not that I can blame him, being thrown into a game like that with little preperation. Needless to say, after J.B. was taken out with a broken tibula, the rest of the offensive game was a little shaky. I sure hope they can get thier act together before the game next weekend against LSU, because they aren't going to let the Tide get away with much, I am sure. Although.....

I don't think anyone expected the upset against Florida, so who knows, maybe the Tide will surprise us all against LSU and Auburn.

As for the BCS BS...WHATEVER!

I'm out!

Another Down 35-3

2005-10-31T14:07:00.000-08:00

I wish I could say that this was a great game to watch, however I wouldn't know. Most are aware this was one of those pay per view deals, and listening to it on the radio isn't as entertaining for sure.

Good news is that Alabama won, and not only that but Georgia lost so that put the Tide up in the polls to #4.

As you can tell, I'm a little bit late in posting. Last week was something else, and this weekend I was pretty busy with partying. lol. My best girl friend's 21st b-day was Sunday, so of course she had to be initiated into the "Bar Club". She is truly a blessing in my life and if she reads this, I hope she knows how much she means to me. I love you J, and I hope you had a great day! Also, a big thanks to "Bananna's" in Enterprise for showing us a great time!

Ok, now I can get to everything that I have been meaning to post but haven't had a chance...

Tyrone Prothro--

Tyrone Prothro was released from the hospital on Wednesday afternoon. RollTide.com reports that the first thing Tryrone did upon his release was visit the practice field and spend time with his team mates.

Tyrone also appeared at the game Saturday to support the Tide and pay the fans a visit.

For those out there wanting to see video of Tyrone's broken leg during the Florida game, click here. It's not a great video clip, however you can see what happened. It's not pretty, so if you are one of those faint at heart folks you may want to skip watching it. I also have video of Tyrone's "catch" if anyone is interested please leave a message, or contact me via email so I can send it to you. I have tried uploading it, but unfortunetly it's a rather large file and I simply don't have room for it anywhere.

DeMeco Ryans and Jamie Christensen were named SEC Teams Players of the week for the game against Tennessee. Jamie made the game winning fileld goal, and DeMeco led the Crimson Tide defensive unit, tying for high tackler honors for the game with 11 stops. He recorded 1.5 stops behind the line while recovering a fumble as well as intercepting the final Tennessee pass attempt of the game to help preserve the Tide’s 6-3 victory. This is the second time the pair have been named players of the week in the SEC.

DeMeco Ryans has also been named as a finalist for the 2005 Draddy Award (Academic Heisman Trophy) and won a $18,000 scholoarship for post graduate education.

DeMeco is also the reipient of the Coach Eddie Robinson National Scholar-Athlete Award funded by the George M. Steinbrenner Family and the New York Yankees. Congrats DeMeco!

Roman Harper's forced fumble against Tennessee was named Pontiac's Game Changing Performance Winner.

For a unprecedented fourth time a Crimson Tide player has won the honor with $20,000 going to the general scholarship fund.

For you die hard Alabama fans (like myself) PLEASE go to www.voteforheisman.com and vote for Brodie Croyle for the Heisman Trophy. Brodie was sent to the locker room during the Utah game for stitches after getting smacked pretty hard by a Utah player, no worries though, he's fine! :)

Georgia's loss of thier starting quarterback hurt the Bulldogs, but not much. I watched a bit of the game and was pretty impressed with Georgia's fight. As I mentioned, Georgia lost against Florida 10-14. Georgia's loss is Bama's gain though, and hey, somebody had to loose. This was one of those torn games as well. I really didn't want to see Florida win, but needed GA to loose in order to get the Tide up in the Polls.

Auburn (ack) also had a big game and beat Mississippi 27-3. I watched this one until the half...couple a really nice plays in the first quarter. I'm not worried though. heh.

As I mentioned, I did listen to the game on Saturday on the radio, the tireless Crimson Tide Network. It's really hard to get into "listening" to a game like you would if you can see it, but at least I knew what was going on. For those of you who have listened to the games on the radio, you all are very well aware of the former Tide great Kenny "Snake" Stabler. I almost would rather Kenny did the television broadcasting rather than radio, but I spose we have to pick and choose. Anyhow, while listening to the game it was mentioned how great of a season the Tide is having this year, about the records being broken, etc. It was said that it sure would be nice to see the Tide go undefeated and into the Sugar Bowl in Atlanta, and to pop a hole in the rediculous BCS for the National Championship game. It sure would be sad to knock a UNDEFEATED SEC team out of the Championship game two years in a row. Boy would there be a heck of a lot of peeved Bama fans...I would hate to be the BCS. lol.

Well, enough for me today. I think everything is as cuaght up as I can get it for now. Unfortunately I had a rather rough day at work and my good old back spasms are dong thier thing today. Hope everyone had as great of a weekend as I had! :)

Oh yeah, this will be the only time you see this color on my page where it's actually a good thing..

Happy Halloween!

Tyrone Prothro Update and Info

2005-10-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

I spoke to my little brother (he is a director at a physical therapy clinic in Tuscaloosa) this afternoon and got a brief update on Tyrone. It seems the infection that Tyrone experienced was probably caused by the fact that his bones were sticking in the ground, and there are all kinds of chemicals used on turf. My brother said that Tyrone should have been already putting pressure on the injury to aid in healing, however due to the infection he has had to keep his leg elevated in order to stay the infection. Rumors are out that Tyrone should be getting out of the hospital late Monday afternoon, however my brother couldn't confirm that.

As I provided earlier a address where you can send a Get Well Card to Tyrone, The Paul W. Bryant Museum has a GIANT card that people can go in and sign to be given to Tyrone at a later date. For those who are not in the Tuscaloosa area, you can visit the museum's web page and click on "Send Tyrone a message" link on thier front page. Those who would perfer to send a mailed get well card can do so to the following address:

Tyrone Prothro

c/o Alabama Football

Box 870323

Tuscaloosa, AL. 35487-0323

PHEW...BAMA WINS 6-3!!!!!!!!!

2005-10-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm still trying to recover from this game. My head is pounding from all the screaming but yes, the Crimson Tide came out on top yet again!

It was a highly defensive game on both sides of the field, but the best stuff came in the last quarter, in fact, the last few minuets of the game.

Brodie took a beating this round getting sacked five times. He's gonna wake up tomarrow wishing he never heard of Tennessee, but he's got a lot to be proud of.

DJ Hall had "Prothro" written in Crimson marker on his wristbands, I'm sure Tyrone appreciates that as much as I did seeing it. DJ had a super game even if the score doesn't show it.

DeMeco, awesome as usual. Jamie....it's all you buddy!!!! I'm so proud of how these guys can get themselves out of sticky situations and pull out a win in seemingly grave odds.

This week I am not naming one single player as my player of the week. I'm so proud of both the offense, defense and special teams that I'm naming The Alabama Crimson Tide the TEAM of the week! ROLL TIDE!

Georgia ended up winning against the Hogs, athough not by much. Georgia lost thier starting QB to a knee injury, so it should be a interesting game against Florida next week.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna get drunk before the Auburn vs. LSU game. :)

Alabama #5 IN BCS

2005-10-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

Like I really care. Last year, as much as I dislike Auburn they were totally screwed. Hey, if it can't be Alabama, it damn better be Auburn is my thinking.

I get that they have changed things around this year to make the BCS a bit more "fair" but in my book any year where you have an undefeated team not get the national championship is not "fair". Auburn got screwed, and should if nothing else at least shared the title. Just my opinion of course. Let me tell you, for an Alabama fan to even say that aloud is a big deal. ;)

Seems to be a big argument as to weather or not LSU and/or Florida will make it to the National championship game. uh. yeah. I get there are still five games left for most of the teams, but drastic things would have to happen in between then and now for either team to have a shot. Anything is possible I suppose, but if either team has even a inkling of a shot it would be LSU in my opinion....of course the season isn't over yet, or even close to being over, so why the argument, I don't know.

I am sitting here watchng the Hogs and the Dogs. lol. I tickle myself sometimes. So far Georgia is on top on the scoreboard, however I don't think Georgia expected such a fight from the Hogs. Of course I am routing for the Hogs...not much chance it helping them too much in the polls, and it will knock Georgia down a peg, good for the Tide, especially being that we have already had our bout with Arkansas.

I'm a bit torn about the game between Auburn and LSU. Part of me wants Auburn to pounce on LSU to knock them down a peg on the polls, and yet at the same time, just because it's Auburn, I want LSU to knock the **** out of them. lol.

Well, I'm outta here for now. Update later.

Wow..Prothro

2005-10-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

I don't check my stat counter very often, but over the last couple of weeks I have noticed my counter jumping big time. Out of curiousity, I decided to take a peek today.

Seems like everyone is interested in seeing video footage of when Tyrone broke his leg. Well, I don't have footage of that, but I do of his awesome catch. Here is a picture I was able to find earlier, but decided not to post it because quite frankly, it kind of grosses me out.

If I do find footage, I will post it, however it's not a easy task. If anyone out there happens across it, please leave a comment and let me know where it can be found.

One other thing I would like to touch on is that there seems to be quite a lot of snipping going on about why Prothro was even in the game at the time he was hurt. He was in the game because he wanted to be, period. Even if Coach Shula had decided to pull him out and replace him with a second stringer, he wouldn't have gone gladly for sure. I don't normally get into all this "other" stuff because I don't see the point of it really. My view point is that instead of trying to lay blame on someone, how about we just pray that Prothro will be blessed with quick healing so he can come back to us (fans, the team) next year with a vegence to make the plays he wasn't able to this season.

I would much perfer Prothro be remembered for "The Catch" than for his broken leg.

One last tidbit. I do a bit of template fiddling and today finished up one for a online friend...go check it out here.

The Nominations Keep Coming..

2005-10-20T13:25:00.000-07:00

Demico Ryans has been named a Semi-Finalist for the prestigous Butkus Award. The Butkus Award is regarded as one of the most elite individual honors in college football.

Brodie Croyle has been named as a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.

Alabama's career passing touchdown leader (36), Croyle has passed for 1,345 yards and nine touchdowns for the fifth-ranked Crimson Tide. He has thrown at least one TD pass in 19 of his 22 career starts.

According to the one of the local papers Croyle is also up for the Heisman Trophy, however I have yet to find any conformation on that.

Bama VS. Vols, not so much a rivalry. According to an article in the Montgomery Advertiser players for both teams show no anomisty towards each other. Fans are an entirely different story. :) Read the article here.

I have to say that I love reading interviews with good ol Charlie Peprah. (Yeah, I know I am waaay older than him!) I have been watching him for a few years now, and he is always such a great talent on the feild, as well as a person. Or as much as one can tell without actually sitting down and talking with him person to person.

"The first thing that comes to mind is orange, that obnoxious orange," Peprah said. "There’s a whole lot of orange."

Of course he is talking about Tennessee here, but I love how he stuck that obnoxious part in there. lol. Sorry, I just really found it funny. Most of us Bama fans just really hate ORANGE!

You can read the article here.

According to reports DJ Hall will be playing in Saturday's game agains the Vols. Reports say that he is still feeling some pain, but the trainers have been working with him and Coach Shula feels he is up to the task. DJ was hit pretty hard in the game last week against Ole Miss and suffered with a bruised rib and some pain in his back.

Newspapers have Alabama winning by 3. First time in years that Alabama has gone into a game against the Vols and not been the underdog.

Two days to go......

Busy Week for Tide

2005-10-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

While the Crimson Tide gears up for the big game against Tennessee on Saturday news of the Rivalry abounds. Trash talking is a normal thing, however this year it seems a lot more potent than in the past.

Many loyal tide fans blame Tennessee head coach, Phillip Fulmer for the three year probation, scholarship reduction and the bowl ban that ended last year. So, does the Tide have reason to want to tear the Vols into a million pieces? Yeah, I suppose they do. I am the first to admit that I am a true Tide fan and talk smack with the fellas at work (hey, I'm a chick and I think sometimes I know more about the sport than they do!) but for some reason I feel as this game is even bigger than the Tide's on going rivalry with Auburn. The difference is this year we have what it takes to knock some sense into Rockytop. Will it happen? I dunno, game day is another 3 days away, but I sure am looking forward to it. It will be a good and tough game, I'm betting. We have something that Tennessee doesn't have though. Loud, roaring, loyal FANS, and I can guarantee that stadium will be off the charts on the noise level. If that isn't enough to intimidate them, I don't know what is! Oh, how I wish I could be there screaming with all the other fans! (Tickets PLEASE!)

On to the News....
Tuscaloosa, AL

Unlike previous Alabama head coaches, Mike Shula downplayed the importance of Saturday's home game with Tennessee. In his Tuesday news conference, he made a few prosaic comments about the game, the history of the series and the team that has become Alabama's fiercest rival.
"We're undefeated, so they're all important," he said. "We have to get ready for a good football team. It's our seventh game. Our focus has to be on that."

Maybe he was trying to forget the orange mashed potatoes. Click here to read more.

Tyrone Prothro received a unexpected Letter..

Seventeen days after he entered the hospital to repair an open fracture of his left leg, Alabama junior Tyrone Prothro continues to recover in DCH Regional Medical Center from a leg infection.

Prothro's spirits were buoyed on Tuesday by a letter he received from President George W. Bush. Alabama head coach Mike Shula did not disclose the contents of the letter he personally delivered to his standout receiver but did describe Prothro's reaction.

"Pro was excited about the letter," Shula said. "His dad came in the room and he said, 'I've got a letter from one of my buddies.'"

Federal health regulations prevent Crimson Tide coaches or team physicians from discussing the condition of their athletes without permission from a parent. A statement released through the university noted that "further updates will be released upon their request." Prothro's extended stay in the hospital has become an issue following the surgery to insert a rod in his left leg to repair a fractured tibia and fibula. For More click here.

Special Guest
Birmingham, Alabama native, Condoleeza Rice will be attending Saturday's game against Tennessee. Reports state that security will be tightened because of her visit to the game, and that media should report to the game early for inspection by the secret service.

According the Montgomery Advertiser, only a few fans should be affected by the added security, and those using elevators on the press box side of Bryant-Denny stadium should be prepared for delays.

Demeco Ryans has been nominated for the 36th Rotary Lombardi Award!

In 44 career games, he has recorded 272 tackles, with 26 TFLs (-83) and 5 sacks (-42). He has 272 career tackles and is currently 8th all-time at Alabama and he is second among active SEC defenders with 272 career tackles.

Ryans has been honored once this year as the Southeastern Conference's Defensive Player of the Week after his performance against Arkansas on September 24 (15 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 1 FR, 1 QBP). Click here for more.

Christensen named SEC Special Teams Player of the Week.

University of Alabama sophomore Jamie Christensen has been named Southeastern Conference Special Teams Player of the Week as announced by the league office.

Christensen was the hero for the Tide in their 13-10 victory over the Ole Miss Rebels. He nailed a 31-yard field goal with no time left on the clock to give the Tide the win. He also hit a career long field goal of 43 yards earlier in the game. Christensen, who also handles kickoff duties for Alabama, recorded two touchbacks on his three kickoffs. More Here.

Side Note: I was carousinging around the internet this afternoon looking for some "I hate Orange" graphics in witch I was most unsuccessful, however I did come across a article in a RockyTop newspaper where the sports writer pretty much said he thought the Vols were going to ge their butts kicked by Bama. I would have included a link, however it was one of "those" websites that only give you a snippet of the article then require you to sign up to read more.

And Last but never least, today is my little brother's birthday, and I would like to wish him the BEST day EVER!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHRISTOPHER!

Tide Wins 13-10!

2005-10-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Jamie Christensen finished off Ole Miss with his field goal going right through the up rights, after Brodie Coyle and the tide offense worked thier way to the 9 yard line in the final seconds of the game!

This game was all about defense for both teams, and one heck of a game to watch. Most of the second half was back and forth going from one end of the field to the other.

Ken Darby also had a awesome touchdown run at the beggining of the second half tromping down the field for a 48 yard scoring drive.

It wasn't a pretty win, but it was a win none the less. This week's Dovely's game player of the week is Jamie Christensen for his outstanding cool despite Ole Miss' attempt to rile him by calling a time out in the last seconds of the game. Way to go Jamie, for showing me and the rest of the Tide fans that you can deliver!

Next week is Tennessee at Bryant-Denny stadium and will be aired by CBS at 2:30pm. This one is going to be another tough game for the Tide, but being a loyal fan that I am, I have faith that we will once again come out victorious.

I'm outta here for now, boys and girls. My head won't stop pounding so I think I'll take a nap.

Sloppy First Half

2005-10-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, the first half was quite sloppy on both ends of the field. Turnovers, and penalties were bad for both teams. Score at the half, still 7-3 Ole Miss.

Ole Miss tried a field goal attempt in the last seconds of the half, but was blocked by the tide.

Word is that DJ is still suffering from pain in his lower back, should know more after the half as to weather or not he will return to the game today. If not, hopefully it's not so serious that he'll be out for the rest of the season. I know back pain, and it's not fun even on a good day.

Hopefully the Tide will come out of the lockeroom ready to play the football with no fooling around and no sloppy mistakes.

As for me, I will probably be back at the end of the game for a update, however I may put it off until later. Unfortunately I have had a rather rough week with back problems, and for the last three days been suffering from some serious headaches witch I think is being caused by the Flexeril prescribed for my back spasms. Always a party around here, let me tell ya! :)

Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer give 'em heck Alabama!

Robinson

2005-10-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

Ramzee Robinson intercepted a pass from Ole Miss quarterback that resulted in the field goal.

Alabama is certainly struggling this first half with under 6 min left before half time. Score is 7-3 Ole Miss.

I have always believed the Tide to be a second half team, for whatever reason they go into that locker room and come out ready to fight. I was quite shocked when the Tide hit so hard in the first half against Florida, however I'm glad they did. They needed to push that hard in order to ensure the win.

I'm out for the rest of the half...ROLL TIDE!

Winded

2005-10-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Looks like DJ may have had the wind knocked out of him by the way he landed on the ground. Recent update says the DJ's lower back is bothering him and he has gone to the locker room.

Bama is on the scoreboard with a feild goal after one failed attempt.

Oh NO not DJ!

2005-10-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

DJ Hall was just hit hard by Ole Miss on a touchdown attempt. I hate when they go to commercial! He was still on the ground and Alabama trainers are surrounding DJ.

DeMeco Ryans and Game Day Ole Miss

2005-10-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

DeMeco Ryans has been named Sports Illustrated's midseason All-American on defense. For more on this story check out RollTide.com. Congrats DeMeco!

Even after a "bye" week, Alabama mangaged to move up in the AP poll to #6.

So far this Ole Miss team doesn't look to be fooling around with the good 'ol boys. After two turnovers within two minuets, Ole Miss was able to get the ball back and take it in for the touchdown. Ole Miss is leading 7-0 with 53 seconds left in the first quarter. Don't count the Tide out however, they have the ball and are moving it down the field quickly! Ole Miss has a pretty impressive defense, however the game is no where near being over yet!

Steal Me!

2005-10-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

You can steal this Alabama Blogger button that I made to put on your website, or blog. The only requirement of course is that you link back here!

I have finished up with the links and such, I think. My back is doing is spaz thing, so I'm outta here for the nite!

Mom....

2005-10-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Hope you have a great day and know that I love ya bunches! :)

Lazy I am

2005-10-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

Well, another weekend has passed and I didn't get much accomplished. Ok, well, I did do the laundry. lol.

Yesturday I spent a good portion of the day trimming my azaleas and cutting down stray trees that grow in exatly the spot you don't won't them too. Then I burned the tree limbs and some pine needles.

Today, well. um. Yeah. I woke up this morning at 5am with my back doing flips. I love those spasms so much I wish everyone could experience the joy of it. Of course I am being sarcastic because really I wouldn't want anyone to have to go through that. I spent a hour in the bathtub followed by a good dose of advil and some niquil. I guess I picked up a bit of something yesturday while outside and the nice cool fall weather we are having here (finally) in the south. Not sure if it's the peanuts or just the sniffles but it was certainly aggravating me this morning. Needless to say not too long after I got out of the bath, I was out cold on the couch. Didn't manage to wake up until after 11am.

Haven't done much since except watch movies and play the game "atomic" on the computer. Of course now I'm starting to get motivated and want to clean the house. Never fails. Yeah, I'm the person who does nothing all day long, but come bed time I decide it's time to rearrange the bedroom.

This is why I am distracting myself by writing on my blog. I feel it coming on. I still have a couple of minor things to do before I hit the hay, and believe it or not, I feel like I could fall asleep right now even after taking the late cat nap around 4. My back feels a little better than it did this morning, but I'll probably take another hot bath before I go to bed, just to make sure I'm able to make it in to work in the am. I'll probably get sent home early because it's a holiday, military is off, thus it will be deadville in Daleville. lol.

Another hurricane out there. Hurricane Vince. Wilma is the last one in the alphabet, then we are on to the greek alphabet. Yeah, I'm guessing a least a couple more pretty good storms before it's all over with. Last week marked the anniversary of hurricane Opal that hit here back in 95. She was fun. Seriously. It was my first hurricane as an adult (I was in the womb for Camile, and I hear there were a couple when we lived in Panama, but I don't remember either.)and I was so stupid that I continuously went outside to see what was going on, well, mostly to smoke, but you get what I mean. It was quite interesting, for sure. I remember thinking that it didn't seem that big of a deal, until we woke up the next morning and looked around the neighborhood. There were a few houses that suffered with trees crashing through thier roofs, but mostly it was trees and power lines down everywhere. We couldn't even get out of town because the powerlines were across the roads. All things considered we weathered it well, however anything bigger than Opal would have me a bit concerned, probably to the point that I would head to my brother's place in Tuscaloosa.

I see I keep getting off track so I best be ending this for this evening. Eventually I will get my links and such taken care of.

Really looking forward to the football game Saturday. Sucked not having a game to watch yesturday, although I did catch some of the Florida game. Guess they had a off week? :)

toodles!

Prothro, SI, and AP

2005-10-06T18:25:00.000-07:00

Tyrone Prothro had surgery to repair the broken bones in his leg, it's reported that a steel rod has been inserted. It's said that the road to recovery will be a long one, however Coach Shula is looking forward to seeing Tyrone during practices next spring. RollTide.com has stated that while Tyrone was in the hospital he had many visitors from team members, family, and friends. No doubt he is well taken care of and well loved. Anyone interested in sending Tyrone a Get Well card can do so by sending to the following address:

Tyrone Prothro
c/o Alabama Football
Box 870323
Tuscaloosa, AL. 35487-0323

The University of Alabama's Brodie Croyle and Crimson Tide has made it on the cover is Sports Illustrated!

I read a couple of articles that say that being on the cover of Sports Illustrated is the kiss of death, however I'm tickled to see it none the less. There is nothing like having something a little extra to rub in the faces of Auburn fans! *Snickering* I'm running out tomarrow afternoon to get my copy to be displayed on my wall for all time :) The article is written by Mark Beech, and a brief snippet of it can be viewed at the SI website.

I'm sure most know this by now, but the good old boys have made into the top ten of the AP polls. Alabama has manged to knock the Gators out of the top ten and insert themselves into a cozy number 7 slot. Alabama is 5-0, and 3-0 in the SEC. Yeah, I like this a lot. I'm really trying to not get my hopes up too high for the big bowl game being that we are only half way through the season, but it's really hard when you see your boys go out there and show a "exalted" team like Florida who the boss is. It killed me how the sports casters during the game last week kept touting how great of a quarterback Florida had, evidently he had a bad day because I didn't see too much out of him. I will give this to the Florida Gators though, they did have a couple of good plays in the first half (however both attempts failed) that I would really like to see the Tide pick up on. I found them to be quite tricky and found myself saying to myself that it was a good play, even if it didn't get the results the Gators were looking for.

As I mentioned before, the Tide have this weekend off, as does Auburn. Leaves me with thinking of how I will spend my Saturday with no game on, at least not one I want to watch. I suppose I can get that yard work done that I have been putting off...

You can see I haven't quite finished with the changes. I have had one of "those" weeks. Crisis with one of my very good friends, doctor's appointment cancelled, prime time tv. lol. I will spend some time on getting things taken care of this weekend when I don't have to worry about work and whatever else might come up.

Hope everyone has had a good week, at least better than mine has been!

New Look

2005-10-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

As you can see I have changed things around a bit. Okay, so a lot. I haven't quite finished as you can probably tell by the lack of links and such, but I will get to it Monday. I wanted to check out the SEC Rankings, however I have been busy working on this for a good portion of the day. I'll check it out when I'm at work 2-marrow.

It's getting late, so I'm outta here. Feel free to let me know what you think of the new look!

Sweet Dreams to all!

31-3 Alabama Win over Florida

2005-10-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Phew. What a game! Fortunately there were more up's than downs. Brodie Croyle had a great game as well as Tyrone Prothro, Ken Darby and Demeco Ryans.

As I mentioned before, Tyrone Prothro broke his ankle during the game, and I imagine he will be out for the rest of the season. I have to admit, I may love the game of football, but I did tear up when I watched Tyrone being carted off the field on a stretcher. I am at a loss as to what I should feel knowing this young man will not get to finish the awesome season he started. Tyrone will be sorely missed, but we won't forget him, for sure!

Tyrone was the leading reciever with 5 carries for 134 yards and 2 touchdowns, and not that it matters to anyone, I'm naming him Dovely's game player of the week!

This win will put the Tide in the top ten for sure. I don't think anyone was expecting what happened today, but I can honestly say that I am quite relieved as I'm sure a lot of Bama fans are.

The Tide will be on the road against Ole Miss on Oct. 15th.

This is Big Al, and he dances! If you want to get me a great gift, check out this site! I'm collecting anything and everything Crimson Tide related! Roll Tide! Seriously if I thought I could get Big AL painted on the hood of my car for free I would SOOO do it!

Well, folks, I think this it it for today. I'm emotionally drained from the game, my throat is sore from yelling at the top of my lungs (They probably heard me in T-town!) and I'm feeling a little bit of a mudslide coming on.

Hope everyone had a great Saturday!

Prothro is down

2005-10-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, It looks like our "star" is out for the rest of the season. In a play that just happened seconds ago, Brodie Croyle's pass the Tyrone Prothro (who was in the inzone) fell on his leg wrong, and you can plainly see that his ankle/foot is broken. Reminds me of the when Thiesman broke his leg during that Redskins game many years ago.

This is horrible for the team, as it is for Prothro and for the many fans. Prothro is being taken out right now in a stretcher.

Alabama fans everywhere want you to know, Tyrone, WE LOVE YOU!

Game Day-Florida

2005-10-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Prothro is running, dovely is jumping, Prothro running, dovely jumping, Prothro running, dovely jumping, Prothro touchdown, dovely's shorts fall off! (I have lost close to 100 lbs and not much of my clothes fit anymore;) uhwhoohoo, let's play some football!

Awesome first half, Alabama is leading at the half 24-3! What was I so afraid of?????

YEAH ALABAMA!

2005-09-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Another two wins under our belt. What an incredible season this has been so far. The Tide has managed to pick up two Pontiac Game Changing awards, along with a few SEC players of the week. You can’t beat that.

I don’t know how many of you witnessed “The Catch” by Tyrone Prothro during the Southern Miss game, but my goodness that was something to behold! This is something that will be talked about by Tide fans for years to come, and is in the works to be forever remembered in a painting done by Daniel Moore. I have video footage of the catch and it tickles me every time I watch it. The fact that he actually caught the ball behind the back of and Southern Miss player is incredible enough, but the fact that he didn’t break his neck on the way down is a miracle! If you would like see footage, please leave a comment or email me. Unfortunately I'm having problems with my ftp server today.

I certainly expected a bigger umph out of South Carolina, but it turns out that they are suffering with many injuries this season. Bad for them, great for Alabama. There wasn’t much fight there, but that’s okay as far as I’m concerned. A win is a win in my book no matter how ugly it may be.

The Arkansas game yesterday was very entertaining, in my book, although I have heard several sports casters say that there wasn’t much to talk about offensively. I don’t know what game they were watching, but I feel like Alabama did a outstanding job offensively once they got a hold of their get up and go. True enough, most of the game was defense, but it just goes to show how strong of a defense both the Tide and the Razorbacks have, just so happens the Tide’s offense knew when to step up to the plate and make things happen. Kenneth Darby had an outstanding game as well as Tim Castile and many other Tide players.

I love this game! Next week is Florida. I’m scared, but only a little. After seeing the pounding Florida made on Kentucky yesterday to say I’m not a bit concerned would be an outright lie. I think we can beat them though. If the Tide keeps their heads in the game, and good ol Prothro continues to charge up the crowd, the Tide will come out on top!

A side note: The game I attended against Middle Tennessee it was Prothro who was out on the field waving his arms trying to get the crowd riled up and make some noise. I love that about any player because it acknowledges the importance the fans have in the game. As a player if you know that your fans are behind you it’s a lot easier to make those fantastic plays that we love to see so much!

ROLL TIDE ROLL!

Empty Nest

2005-09-25T12:30:00.000-07:00

I knew it would happen sooner or later. My sister and her family have headed back to LA. My brother-in-law called late Tuesday last week to let my sister know the power was back on and it was okay for her and the kids to return home. They left on Thursday to make sure that Rita wasn't going to be a problem for them.

My sister had a rough ride home I guess. She stopped about 100 miles from home to get gas, and none was to be found. Every gas station she stopped at was out of gas. She finally stopped and asked a local where she might be able to find some and was able to fill up at a Mom and Pop store. Phew. I happened to call her as this was going on and thought she had made pretty good time considering.

She called later on to let me know she made it home okay, but said for whatever reason it took her an hour to get from the exit she gets off on to her house. Mind you this is only a matter of maybe five miles from the exit to her house, so this was a big deal. She said she wasn't sure what was going on but figured it was probably due to the power in her area being back up and running, people heading home from out of town.

My nephew is to start back to school the first week of October. He is ready to go, he says he wants to get back so he can play soccer with his friends. For a six year old that is saying a lot. :)

My sister says that there aren't very many stores open yet, and a lot of the ones that are open are still required to close at dark, so things are definately not back to normal in her area. I'm sure she is glad to be home, and I can't say as I blame her after being displaced for a month. I was very sorry to see them go though.

It's amazing how quickly you adjust to difficult situations and having a two year old and a six year old in the house when you aren't used to it is something else. Thursday night, my first night by myself again I couldn't sleep. Couldn't hear the kids in the living room playing. How silly is that? :)

Needless to say, I have a empty nest again and have been trying to get back to the things that are "normal" for me. Cleaning up the house, and trying to get caught up on my posts that I wasn't able to do while the family was here.

Life is about adjustments, we all have to make them. Unfortunately for some the adjustment isn't over yet. This mess with hurricanes Katrina and Rita will wiegh heavy on the minds of a lot of people for a very long time.

God Bless all who are suffering through these trying times. Don't think you are alone. There are a lot of us out there in this world who are thinking about you, and praying for you.

Back to the mundane for me. Laundry is calling, the question is weather or not I want to answer. (nope.)

Sidenote: The University of Alabama is doing thier part to help in the aid of the hurricane victims, for more information go to Rolltide.com.

Roll Tide Roll

2005-09-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, I love it. I haven't had much chance to post lately, I have a house full and last weekend was quite hectic.

I left last Friday to head to my brother's house (Tuscaloosa) for the weekend, my niece Avery was to be baptized on Sunday and the whole family was gathering for the event. Unfortunately the drive wasn't all that great. My nice little Honda decided to overheat and busted the top half of the radiator so badly that there was no choice but to repair it. I live on limited funds and didn't have the money to pay for such a costly repair. Thank God for family. My brother took care of it for me as well as coming to pick me up in Montgomery so I wouldn't miss any of the tailgating on Saturday followed by the game against Middle Tennessee.

My brother got some great seats this season! Right in front of the goal posts with no one in front of us to have to worry about looking over. As you can guess I was in heaven. First half was nothing to great to talk about, however as always the tide came back in the second half and took care of business. Great game, and I had a blast. I am sure glad my brother had that extra ticket, although I did feel somewhat the odd ball being the only lady out of the family to go to the game.

As I mentioned, I have a full house at the moment. My sister who lives outside of New Orleans is staying with me with her two kids and hubby. Actually my brother-in-law has to be at work on Monday, so they (my sis and her hubby) went this evening to get the minivan so when the power is restored in her area she will have transportation back home. It looks as if they plan to have everything in her area back up in running by the first week of October, although I suppose we'll have to wait and see. Thankfully her house was not damaged by the storm at all, no water damage and while all the trees around her house (just about) came down, nothing hit the house or garage, so they made it through the storm pretty unscathed.

There were two bus loads of refugees from the storm at the game last Saturday, and the University of Alabama donated the gate to the Red Cross, and Coach Shula matched the donation. Gotta love the Tide! There are still many out there in need of help, so as always contact the American Red Cross and volunteer, or donate some cash to help out.

Tide is up two games now..... :) Rooooolllllll Tide Roll!

Helping the Hurricane Victims

2005-08-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

Throughout today I have heard updates from customers about what has been going on along the gulf coast that has been devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Much of the news was not good, however until I got home and was able to watch the news I had no idea how devastating the damage is.

There are thousands of people from Mobile to New Orleans that are going to be displaced because the damage is so horrendous that they have probably lost everything that they were not able to bring with them when they evacuated.

I talked with many evacuees today who were fearful they wouldn't have much to go to home to, and unfortunately they are probably correct in that assessment. All of the area hotels and motels around here are packed with evacuees, and a shelter was open in Dothan to accommodate those who were not able to get a room anywhere.

These people are going to need a lot of help over the next few weeks, not only financially, but spiritually as well, I am sure. While I am sure most of us have been praying that the worst wouldn't occur, it has, and we all need to show these folks the love this country has for their fellow Americans.

Please visit one of these websites and make a donation to help out the hurricane victims throughout the gulf. They need your help, and if you can give it, please do so.

The Salvation Army has readied vans to feed the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The American Red Cross will be accepting donations and you can contact your local Red Cross office, call 1-800-Help-Now, or visit here. Also keep in mind, there are going to be many that are injured, so please take the time and donate some of your much needed blood.

On a personal note, I spoke to my sister last night and she/family arrived in Tuscaloosa at 11pm after spending close to 12 hours on the road. According the news reports the area where she lives is flooding and showed footage of a shed floating around in the flood waters. :( My sister-in-laws folks are also going to have severe water damage as the area where they live have homes with water above waist high. The important thing of course is that they are safe and although I'm greatly saddened at the losses they and many others will be experiencing, I'm grateful that they were able to get away from the storm. Lives cannot be replaced, but things can.

God Bless all of you and I sincerely hope your family and friends are safe and well.

Awesome Hurricane Website!

2005-08-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned I am poor and can't afford cable. :) Seriously. Anyhow, because I do have family from the New Orleans area and I don't have access to the Weather Channel, I did some searching for more in depth information on the internet.

I came across this website that has live feeds of hurricane information. For the better part of the day most of the news was from a news station in New Orleans, and until the last few hours it has gone back to the people who run this website. It's very interesting, so you should check it out.

Hurricane City

I have heard from my brother and my sister in laws folks made it there a-okay. I have not heard from my little sister as of yet, but I imagine they have made it to Tuscaloosa by now also.

The last few updates I have heard suggest that New Orleans area, as well as surrounding areas will be UNINHABITABLE for up to six weeks. God be with every soul that has stayed behind.

And so there is Katrina

2005-08-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, of course there comes another hurricane. This storm will not majorly impact myself, however it will impact my family. My sister lives in Mandeville, LA, witch for those of you not familiar is located about 5 minuets from Lake Ponchatrain and the causeway. My brother's in-laws also live in the New Orleans area.

My sister and her family left the Mandeville area this afternoon headed for T-town, as well as I'm sure my sister-in-laws folks. This is no little storm. This is going to cuase major damage in the New Orleans area. I fear for my sister's home, and for the many families who are going to be impacted by this storm. To give you an idea how large this storm is, I live about six hours away from my sister's place and we are already experiencing some of the "outer bands" here. We had a brief downpour about an half hour ago (of witch I got caught in while I was filling the gas tank up and buying ice) along with some thunder. For most of the day today the sun has been shining, but when you look to the south west it's nothing but black.

Around here we are to expect up to 10 inches of rain and wind gusts up to 50mph. Along with that, I'm sure we'll have to deal with tornadoes and whatever else comes our way, but compared to what those who are sticking around the New Orleans are going to experience that is nothing.

I imagine much of the French Quarter will be wiped out, thousands of homes are going to be taken out. I guess I should be glad that my family was smart enough to get out of there, but I still fear for the losses they may experience as far as thier home. I'm afraid for those sticking around there. I'm afraid for my family and the thought that they may loose everything.

Not much we can do but be afraid, and PRAY!

As I mentioned in a earlier post, most of the family will be in T-town next weekend. Looks as if my sister and other family members will be there for most of the week. Who knows when they will be able to get back to thier home to acess the damage, or when they will have power/water back up and running.

For those who are on the road moving away from the storm, and for those staying for the storm, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Stay safe, and for heavens sake stay out of the storm!

Here comes Alabama Football!!!!

2005-08-25T19:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, boys and girls. It's almost time. Only 8 days to go before the opening game for the Crimson Tide football team. One word. WOOOHOOOO!!!!! The good news is, I will be in Tuscaloosa for the opening game. The bad news is, I won't be AT the game. waaaaaaaaahhhh! 4 tickets, 4 men, you do the math. lol. I guess we ladies will just have to chill in the air condtioned house and watch the game on t.v. while the guys enjoy themselves in the 100% humidity and sitting under the glorious hot sun. I still think the guys are getting the better end of the deal, of course outside of my sister-in-law, I'm probably the only other one who really cares about weather or not we get to go to the game or not. Although I'm not sure, I believe we ladies will be outside of Bryant-Denny at the tailgate party, while the boys are inside at the game. Oh well. At least I will still be able to hear the excitement inside of the stadium, and watch the game on the TV that will be set up. Sounds fun to me all the same!

My gorgeous niece Avery will be getting baptized on Sunday, September 4th, so most of the family is going to be in T-town for the weekend. It's going to be quite the weekend with the first Bama game and the baptizim jam packed into one weekend. I'm really looking forward to it being that I wasn't able to go to the last family function due to car issues. Yes, I'm rather excited. I haven't even seen the little tyke yet other than in pictures so to say I'm thrilled is a understatement. It will be great to see everyone too, I sometimes feel like I'm left out of the loop because of my financial situation and not being able to take off to see family as much as I would like. I feel like I'm missing out on watching my nieces and nephew grow up and it kills me!

Well, anyhow, for those of you out there who are interested, here is the Alabama Football Schedule:

Sept. 3rd ... vs. Middle Tennessee in Tuscaloosa ... kickoff 6 pm ... televised Fox Sports South
Sept. 10th ... vs. Southern Miss in Tuscaloosa ... televised ESPN2
Sept. 17th ... vs. South Carolina in Columbia, SC ... televised CBS
Sept. 24th ... vs. Arkansas in Tuscaloosa
Oct. 1st ... vs Florida in Tuscaloosa
Oct. 15th ... vs. Ole Miss in Oxford, MS
Oct. 22nd ... vs. Tennessee in Tuscaloosa
Oct. 29th ... HOMECOMING! ... Utah State in Tuscaloosa
Nov. 5th ... vs. Mississippi State in Starkville, MS
Nov. 12th ... vs LSU in Tuscaloosa Nov. 19th vs. Auburn in Auburn, AL [Iron Bowl]

Spammers Beware!

2005-08-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

Well, yes, it has happened again. While checking my comments I find yet again someone has spammed my blog! Is nothing sacred anymore? Just to let you other spammers out there know, if you leave any unwanted spam that is unrelated to my blog, I will report you period and delete your message immediately.

Thanks and have a super great day!

Back in Business

2005-08-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

I have finally done it. Yes, believe it or not, I have accomplished something that I thought was not possible. I fixed my OWN computer. The big ticker is that I managed to do it without reinstalling XP. Yeah. I’m waiting for it. The applause. Wohooo.

Actually, I am rather computer savvy, and under most circumstances I can usually fix up the problem, or at least figure out what is wrong if nothing else. For the last month my computer has been doing the old “hang” thing. If you have ever experienced this, you know exactly what I’m talking about. You know, the open a program and wait 20 seconds for it to load, then wait another 20 seconds for the computer stop hanging, then work for a minuet on whatever it is you are trying to get done, and then hang again. Very annoying and very frustrating to say the least.

It all started about a month ago when I lost power unexpectedly. I do live in the great state of Alabama now, where during a hurricane there is no interruption is power service, but on a bright and sunny day, whammo, no power. Needless to say, the computer was on during this power outage and when I booted it back up, so started the hanging problem, as well as the apparent loss of one of my extra drives.

I did everything I could think of. I scanned for virii about 50 times between using the Norton I have installed on my computer and using the various online virii scanners. No virii. I used my trusty Ad-aware to scan for malware, adware, and spyware. Found many infections and removed most of them. Except for this nasty malware that would just not be removed no matter how hard I tried to delete it. It would pop up in my start up programs and no matter how many times I would remove it, it would miraculously reappear. I finally did a search on the internet for the culprit, and discovered that I had to use a handy program called Killbot. Killbot basically replaces the malware with a dummy file so you can easily remove it. That done, and ad-aware didn’t pick up anymore threats, however the computer was still hanging. I couldn’t imagine what more could be wrong with it, but decided I had better try a couple of different spyware removal programs. Surprisingly, it’s a good idea to have a couple different spyware detectors. I was shocked to find that after I downloaded spyware doctor that it detected 133 threats and neatly removed them. No hassle. In the end I actually downloaded 3 different spyware removal tools, but found spyware doctor to be the best, and it also has a few extra handy options added into the program. Spyware Doctor will immunize your computer against future threats and has a neat little on guard protection so whenever you go on the internet it zaps the nasty spyware before it ever hits your computer. Absolutely worth the money in my book. Alas, I still had the hanging problem.

Next step was to clean out the registry. Your registry tends to get bombarded with not only spyware, but whenever you remove a program from your computer it leaves trails of the said program behind. If you clean your registry regularly you won’t have to worry about the clutter and fortunately there are quite a few programs out there that will remove the clutter for you, especially if you are not comfortable fooling around with your registry files. I had a registry cleaner on my computer that I use periodically, however after running RegCleaner the computer was still hanging, so I searched for a better registry cleaner. I found a handy tool called Registry Mechanic, and after running it, it found a bunch of stuff the RegCleaner did not detect, cleaned it up nice for me. Registry Mechanic also has a nice little feature that makes it easy to back up your registry, just in case something is removed that wasn’t supposed to be removed, so you can easily use the back up. It’s a rather quick tool as well, witch is something I appreciate being that I’m the impatient type. All well and nice, but my computer was still hanging. By this time I was about ready to give up and had pretty much told myself that I would have to reinstall xp to get things back to normal, so instead of focusing on the “hanging” problem, I moved on to the problem of my extra hard drive. After a couple of days of fooling around trying to get the problem fixed, I ended up just scrapping it. Not to worry though, I don’t even remember what I had on the drive, it wasn’t a very big drive to begin with, and being that I can’t remember the last time I even looked at the contents of the drive, I came to the conclusion it wasn’t a big loss.

Then it happened. Most out there in internetdom probably don’t know, but my husband and I have been going through the he** of immigration. He’s Canadian and we have been trying to get him here. Long road it has been. Anyway, when I was talking to him I mentioned I was having problems with the computer and he suggested that I make sure that there aren’t any missing system files. I can say a lot of things about my husband, but he is quite the “EXPERT” when it gets to computers. I of course did not know how to check for missing system files asked him how I would go about that. I learn something new everyday. It was so simple, I almost feel foolish for not knowing about it.

Ok, here is where I’m going to explain what you should do BEFORE you go through the pain of reinstalling XP and loosing all the information on your computer. If you have checked for virii, cleaned all the spyware off your computer, and cleaned the registry and are still having problems you should really try this!!!

In windows, click on start and find where your c: prompt is located and click on it. (My husband said you can just type this in the “Run” option, but for whatever reason it didn’t work for me.) Once you can see the c: prompt type sfc /scannow and hit enter. A small box will pop up and start scanning your computer for missing or corrupt system files. You will have to pop in your XP cd so it can get the correct files and replace them. Easy!!! When it’s done scanning your computer make sure you reboot your computer, and find out if it fixes your problems. It did mine, thankfully!!! Also, just for extra, while you are in the c: prompt mode you can type in sfc /? And a list of options will pop up and show you some options for scanning at the next reboot, or scanning on every reboot.

Most people out there probably have a cd writer on their computer. I highly suggest you back up any programs and files, email addresses, and any other important information you want to keep periodically onto a cd, so in the instance where you may have to reinstall XP (or windows, or whatever OS you are using) you won’t have any troubles getting everything back to normal. As good as it is to have the option to return your computer back to when it was working properly, sometimes that just isn’t good enough.
Unfortunately I do not have a cd writer yet, witch is why I was hoping against all odds that I would not have to reinstall. I have hundreds of family photos on this computer that I would be really upset if I lost. I really need to invest in a cheap cd writer, or a new hard drive.
Well, that covers my missing weeks posting to this blog. I hope some of the information I have provided will be helpful to someone else who may be having some of the same problems I was having. Like I said, I’m no computer genius like my hubby, but I managed to get this computer back to normal and that is enough for me!

Pillowgahn & Tree

2005-07-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

I finally finished it. Actually, as far as making blankets goes, I made this in record time. I only started on it Saturday, and here it is mid week and I'm done with it. I used left over and scrap yarn because I had never made a pillowgahn before, and was basically just testing the waters to see how difficult it was going to be to make it. Pretty easy in my book, but it's a bit tedious. You make 13 squares, then sew them together. The only thing I don't like about this is the fact that the 13th square is sewn wrong side out (on the right side of the afgahn) in order to fold correctly into the pillow. I think my next go round I will probably make it double sided, so that you won't really be able to tell that there is the wrong side out effect, or possibly use some solid colored fabric. Turned out pretty well considering I used left over yarn! My cheap digital camera doesn't do it justice I don't think. The solid square on the left of the afgahn is actually pink, not the whitish color as it shows in the picture.

I am thinking of making several different sizes of the pillowgahn to try and sell on Ebay, and maybe at a local flea market to make some extra cash. There is a lot of stuff I would like to do on the CRX, and I can always use the extra money! I visited a couple of websites that are selling these pillowgahns for upwards of $75!

On to the Tree situation. Actually, I probably wouldn't have ever known had I not seen a woman pull over, walk over to the tree and start picking something off of it and popping it into her mouth. She didn't (that I saw) touch the trees on my property, but on my neighbors. Although, after she left I went to investegate and noticed that the trees on my property were picked pretty well clean, although I can't say as to weather or not she picked the berries or if it was the birds. I have no idea what kind of berries these are, but when I picked what I thought was a ripe berry, and popped it in my mouth, it wasn't a pleaseant thing. I don't think I could even properly describe the taste. It's obviously something that is acquired, because I don't think I would ever attempt such foolishness again. I have been scouraging the internet this evening trying to get a clue as to what kind of berry tree this is, and
haven't come up with much of a clue. The main thing that is throwing me off is that there are two different types of leaves on this tree. At first glance I thought it was a type of Maple tree, but as I said, the appearence of the other leaves makes it hard for me to really decide what kind of tree this is. Again this photo isn't the greatest, I really need to invest in a better digital camera, but you can see the different shapes in the leaves and where the berries have been picked off.

If anyone out there has a clue as to what kind of berries these are I would greatly appreciate a clue. The funny part in all this what I was a bit irritated to see this woman with no regard to being on someone else's property eating berries off a tree she had no right too, but after tasting it, she can have them. lol.

On to something a bit personal. After I don't know how many years I have finally broken the weight of 170lbs! I suppose to most people this would be no big deal, but I topped out at more than 240lbs, and for someone who has tried for the better part of her life to get her weight under control this is a big deal! The bad part in this deal is that until recently I hadn't been trying to loose the weight, it has been just coming off for no apparent reason, witch of course has caused some alarm to my doctor and NP. I have lost a good portion of it over the last two years, and usually it's ony a few pounds a month. To me this is a good thing, but to the doctor, not so much. I have medical issues, witch I have mentioned before and therefore I have been on several different medications over the years. There is a possibility it's the medications that are causing the weight loss, but of course there is always the chance that it could be something more serious. I'm supposed to be getting a chest x-ray as well as a spinal x-ray for my back problems. (Possible fracture in the t-11, t-12 section).

I have mixed feelings obviously. I'm so happy for once in my life to finally be dropping the pounds, but at the same time I wonder if there is something more serious to it that I should be worrying about. I have been overweight pretty much my whole life, and to suddenly start loosing weight while changing none of the habits I suppose is a bit disturbing. My goal is to loose another 18 pounds witch would take me down to 140, witch is still about 25lbs over my "ideal" wieght. I have to say, I have felt great since the weight loss, have more energy (until recently) and feel a whole heck of a lot better about myself. It's so wonderful to have a neighbor stop as they are driving by and tell you you are getting too skinny! :) Now, if I could only afford to buy some new clothes so I can get rid of these baggy ones, it would be wonderful! Of course I started loosing all this weight after I gave away all my "skinny" clothes. Never fails, eh?

Hot and Humid, Welcome to Alabama!

2005-07-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

Yeah. Very Hot. Very Humid. Today's wonderful tempreture? 97 degrees. Heat Index? 103 degrees. Air condtioning? No.

Wish I could say I'm too cheap to run it, but the fact is I just plain can't afford to run it. My last electric bill was a mere $75, and that was from running it maybe a total of four days. Imagine what it would be if I ran it everyday!

Most of the time with the fans running it's not too bad....

But then there are those days like today when all you can do is pray for a sudden snow storm in hopes that it will cool it off to anything around 80ish.

Now factor in yardwork....

Push lawn mower.....

And the backyard the size of a football field.
Ok, so it's not that big, and thankfully it's not hilly, but it's still not fun when you are pushing a lawnmower in 103 degree heat and humidity.

Both pictures are of just the back yard, and I'm standing next to the house where the fence starts.

Needless to say, I think I may have hurt myself between the mowing and picking up all the debris from Dennis. I only finished mowing the part in the above picture and picking up most of the tree limbs from the higher picture before I had to quit, come in the house, turn the a/c on, take a cold shower and then passed out for two hours. I was just going to lay down for a min....

I'm thinking of starting a riding lawnmower fund..... :) BTW...that pile in the first picture, that is bigger than it looks and not all of it is from Dennis, but most of it is.

Hope everyone has a great week. I don't know how much I will be posting because I'm working on making a pillowgahn. Any crocheters out there will know what I'm talking about, and if you aren't one, well, I will post a picture when I'm done. toodles!

Welcome Back!

2005-07-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

This shout is for my lovealbe, adorable, wonderful friend, Jamie. She has been away at boot camp and AIT for the past few months. I don't think she will ever know how much she was missed when she was away, and I'm so happy that she if finally back home with her family and friends!

*singing song from Welcome Back Kotter*

I guess I just showed my age a bit, huh. lol.

Glad your back, Jamie!

Dodged Dennis

2005-07-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

Well, for the most part we around these parts were spared the awfulness of Dennis. Very odd storm indeed. I think there were a total of three tornado warnings throughout the storm, with Ivan there were more than 80. Mostly we got the rain and wind gusts up to 50+ mph, a few power lines down, and of course lots of tree limbs. I have quite a mess to clean up in the yard from the nasty pine trees.

Unfortunately however, because of all the rain we did recieve there is still the threat of flooding in our area. The ground was already pretty saturated from the rain we got from Cindy, so most of what fell over the weekend (and today) will probably run off into the streams and rivers. This is okay except when it becomes a flooding problem. I live on high ground so if it floods, I'm safe, however I will basically be trapped and unable to get to work. When I crossed the bridge this morning on the way to work the river was already pretty high, so I imagine in a few days we may have a bit of a problem.

And there appears to be another storm brewing....it's going to be a looooooooooong hurricane season for us around here I think.

For any folks out there that live in the Mobile/Pensacola area, my thoughts and prayers are with you that you didn't sustain too much damage!

Dennis

2005-07-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

Looks as if Dennis is going to pound us in these parts. Local news says that the projected path still hasn't changed for landfall around Mobile/Pensacola. Not that I want this storm any closer to me than it already is, but I hate to think of this storm hitting a area that still hasn't recovered from Ivan last September. I told my mom earlier today that I thought landfall would be around Destin, and according to last update the storm is starting to move more North. Basically the storm right now is dierectly south of where I am living. Yeah, a bit scary. To say I'm not concerned would be a huge lie. Ten years ago when Opal visited our area, she was a catagory 3. Dennis is expected to be a Catagory 4 by morning and if He hits the same area as Opal boy are we in for a heck of a ride. (Destin/Walton area)

All the area hotels/motels are at or above capacity according to news reports, gas is hard to come by, generators are sold out. In Dothan they finished up the Future Masters today, I don't know how many of those out of towners headed straight out of here or are sticking around. A tennis tournament was supposed to start on Sunday, I guess that isn't going to happen. Everything is pretty much closing down for the day due to the weather.

Flooding, tornadoes, high winds. Argh. Say a prayer for those of us about to deal with the effects of this storm! I'm guessing we will loose power by mid afternoon sunday, and who knows when it will come back on, so I'll be back on when things are semi normal around here.

Peace!

Here comes Dennis

2005-07-07T20:24:00.000-07:00

Argh. Yes, we have ourselves an impressive hurricane headed our way. Hurricane Dennis is projected to hit somewhere between Louisianna and Appalachacola, Florida. Um, yeah. Catagory 4 right now. uh oh. Hopefully it will slow down once it gets in the gulf. Opal was a Catagory 3 and it was bad, but not so bad that you had to panic too much...catagory 4 is a entirely different story.

I live approximately 90 min from Panama City, Florida. Needless to say if this hurricane hits anywhere between Mobile and Panama City, we are going to see either minor effects, or major. Opal hit around San Destin, FL and the eye of the storm went over Enterprise, AL witch is about 20 min from where I live...we had some pretty nasty weather here. Trees/powerlines down, no power for almost a week, no water for the same. We had phone service...like it did us much good.

Maybe it will get out into the gulf and just die......

Here is a blog of a local weather meterologist, Ashley Brand for more information on the Hurricane.

WHY?

2005-07-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

I don’t understand why there is so much hate. I don’t understand why there are some who hate so much that they are willing to sacrifice there own lives in order to hurt people that they really don’t know or understand.

I disagree with a lot of issues, that doesn’t mean I’m going to go out and bomb a building, bus, or subway in order to get my point across. I disagree with the way a lot of people choose to live there lives, but I won’t hurt another soul putting my own at stake.

I have to wonder if these terrorists really think the damage they are doing is really going to produce the results they are looking for. If you don’t like the way the world does things, than go someplace in the desert, or wherever the hell you want and start your own utopia, leave everyone else alone who doesn’t agree with the way you think or live.

I’m an American, and proud to be. I have never been to London, but my heart aches for every soul that was lost today, my heart goes out to those families who were affected. I’m angry and saddened. I just want all this hatred and evil to stop, but I know it won’t. It’s not over.

I will keep praying for this world that is destined to destroy itself. I will continue to love my neighbors, even those who wish me harm. I will keep living even though there are those out there who may want to do me harm.

Here is a message to you ignorant, non feeling, sorry piece of crap terrorists:

You can bomb our buildings, planes, and subways. You can try and take away our freedoms, and try to hurt our families and friends. You can try until the end of time to achieve your goals, but YOU WILL NOT SUCSEED. WE WILL SURVIVE, NO MATTER WHAT BECAUSE WE ARE STRONGER THAN YOU ARE!!!!! We will not allow you to fill our hearts with fear, and we will not stop hunting you down until every last one of you is gone.

"Never give in. Never give in. Never. Never. Never." --Winston Churchill

2005-07-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend and that most will enjoy the fireworks tonight that will be displayed in spots all over the U.S. Here in my area the fireworks were Saturday night, and unfortunately I missed them due to my folks being in town. Oh, well. There is always next year. I suppose if I really wanted to deal with the traffic jam and sitting in the heat and humidity for 3 or 4 hours, plus the hour and a half drive home after sitting in said traffic jam, I could either go to Montgomery or Panama City to see the works. I haven’t really decided actually, I’m leaning a little towards P.C. being that I love the beach so much. Ah, but then there is the fact that I have to work in the morning and getting home at 1am with the wake up call at 5am wouldn’t be so nice.

This morning while watching Good Morning America they focused on a story about a soldier who is stationed in Tikrit, Iraq; and his family who is in Georgia. I don’t generally write about politically charged issues such as this because in my opinion both sides of the story have valid issues. The more I hear about our soldiers dying the more my head tells me we need to get the heck out of there and leave the Iraqi’s to take care of their own issues.

As with everything there are always two sides to the story. As I have mentioned before, I live/work near the home of Army Aviation. I deal with soldiers and soldier families on a daily basis and have done so for all of the last six years. Over the years I have seen a lot of soldiers come and go, and most of them return at some point, witch is rather odd in a way. It doesn’t happen very often in the military lifestyle. Anyhow, every soldier I have spoken to that has already done a tour in Iraq WANT to go back. At first I found this rather odd. Why on earth would anyone want to put their lives in danger like that?

The answer was stated on GMA this morning. Every soldier I have spoken to has said the same thing. It’s not about going over there and putting their lives in danger; it’s about going over there and making a DIFFERENCE.

To quote one soldier, “It’s kind of scary, but at the same time, very rewarding.”

We hear everyday about the soldiers who were killed but we very rarely hear about all the good work the soldiers are doing. We don’t hear about the soldier who received a care package with a teddy bear in it, who in turn gives that teddy bear to a child who has never had one. We don’t hear about the soldiers who have helped build a school for children who have never gone to school, or building houses for people who are homeless. We don’t hear about the Medic’s who have saved the lives of countless Iraqi’s. We don’t hear about all the GOOD things that are going on in Iraq or how our American soldiers are trying to make a difference and change the perception of how Iraqi’s look at the world, and at life.

My heart goes out to every family out there who is dealing with a family member being in Iraq (or anywhere else for that matter), especially the kids who are missing their mommies or daddies. My heart cries for every soldier that is lost. I hope that today all will say a prayer for every soldier who is out there in this big world of ours defending what they believe in, and honor their decision for doing so.

Happy Birthday America, and God Bless us all.

What's wrong with this?

2005-06-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

2 kids.

6 bicycles.

2 kids fighting over 1 of the 6 bicycles.

sheez. I remember when I felt lucky to share one bike with my brother and sister.

Money Meme

2005-06-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

Imagine someone handed you each of the amounts listed below, and you have to spend it all on yourself, what would you buy?

$1,000,000
A modest, five bedroom dome home. Two new vehciles, probably a Honda Hybrid, and a minivan of some sort. A trip to Italy/Europe. A beach home in Destin, Florida. A yatch to sail around the gulf in. And geez, I really can’t think of anything else. I have a hard time spending on myself, I’d probably end up buying stuff that I like, and giving it away to someone else.

$100,000
A smaller house, and only one car.

$10,000
A nice down payment on a car. (See where this is going?? Lol)

$1000
New bedroom furniture and a awesome dual control air bed.

$100
groceries. You can never have too much food in the house.

$10
This probably sounds silly, but I would spend all ten bucks on Ben and Jerry’s
Cherry Garcia!

$1
Whatever caught my eye at the dollar store.

$.10
A piece of bubble gum.

$.01
Geez, I dunno, a WHOLE penny??? Sometimes you can find some of the red hots in the machine for a penny…haven’t seen those in forever though.

And so It continues...

2005-06-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

Talk about having a lousy week. Back problems persist. I ended up home from work on Monday, again on Wednesday, and I had a doctor’s appointment on Thursday. I worked a whole two days and to say that I enjoyed my time off from work would be an utter lie. There is nothing like laying on the kitchen floor in so much pain that there is nothing to do but cry and beg for mercy. I have no idea what or why I have these muscle spasms, but I can tell you that it’s not fun, and I could definitely live without them. At my last doctor’s appointment the NP prescribed some pain medicine for the muscle spasms, witch I’m sad to say was like I took nothing at all. Didn’t work, not even a little bit.
It’s back to the narcotics. The NP would like me to have a MRI, witch with no insurance I can’t afford, so the likely hood of that happening is nil. I have another appointment in two weeks to see the doctor who is on vacation because the NP can’t prescribe narcotics. She said most likely it will be a very strong muscle relaxer and even though I may feel great enough to work, I shouldn’t. Go figure. The one thing I want to avoid is missed days at work, can’t afford it at all. I suppose though as the NP stated, my health is more important than a paycheck and the alternative is making my back worse by working while in so much pain could ultimately make matters worse and more costly in the long run.

Fortunately while my back is still sore from all the tension of the past week, it’s feeling a bit better. I was able to get out yesterday and do some much needed yard work and got a nice burn in the process. Hopefully I won’t peel too badly. I generally burn very rarely thanks to the Italian blood, but this is really the first time this summer I have had the prolonged exposure to the sun. My next door neighbors normally cut my grass for me because I have a rather large yard and a push mower, while they have a riding. Takes me two hours with the push mower, takes them 30 min. Big difference especially when you factor in the Alabama heat and humidity. They have gone out of town for a month, so it’s up to me to take care of the yard while they are gone. I don’t mind really, I actually rather enjoy it, of course I would enjoy it a lot more if I had a nice cool swimming pool in the back yard to cool off in.

My nasty car problem has worked itself out. My dad got a newer car so I will be getting the hand me down hand me down. I said I wanted a Honda…so I’m getting a Honda. Lol, just not the model I wanted, but it will do. It’s a 1989 Honda Crx, used to be my brother’s when he was in college and my dad took it when my brother got a new car. My dad has only been driving it for a little over a year, although he has had it for a lot longer than that. It’s in fair condition and should be a good little car for me. From what I have read those Honda’s just go on forever with minor need for repairs. Here’s hoping!

I haven’t done much on my template making this past week. Been in far too much pain to sit for very long, and I’m still experiencing some creative blockage. I have an idea of what I want to do, just need to figure out how to do it with the html and css factored in. I have made a couple of graphics but when I put them into the template, I didn’t like how they turned out, so it’s back to the drawing board. I’m working on getting some new filters for Photoshop witch will make things a bit easier in the creative process.

My folks will be coming down next weekend to bring the car down so I need to get to doing some minor cleaning around the house. Hey, it’s just me and the two kitties, not like the house can get too dirty, however the adorable little brats are shedding something fierce and the clumps of hair floating around is a bit bothersome. If they weren’t so afraid of the vacuum cleaner I would take it to both of them and solve that hair problem!

2005-06-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

It took a min for me to notice the odd ball in the bunch :)

I Knew It Was Coming

2005-06-14T03:38:00.000-07:00

I knew it was coming. Sunday I felt the tinges of back pain, nothing major, just letting me know it was coming. Monday, well, I had a lousy day anyway. Slight pain also, but pack a bit of depression on top of that and you have a wonderful Monday. At least I can say my work day wasn’t bad at all, just the weight of the car situation has been riding heavily upon me and I am having a hard time dealing with the fact that my options are limited.

I generally try to cover things up and try to not let them bother me so much. Sometimes I am pretty successful at it, other times not so much. I have learned to be a strong person most of the time, because I’m on my own, I have no one to lean on. I have health issues to deal with witch is part of the reason I am only able to work on a part-time basis. Actually, it’s most of the reason.

Needless to say, when I went to bed “early” last night because I was having such a crappy day and felt exhausted from all the boo hooing, the pain was becoming a bit more constant. I’m not even sure if I can call it pain…it’s an odd thing really. I suffer from both back problems and back spasms, weather one has to do with the other I’m not sure, but when I get a flare up, it’s not generally a very pretty thing. Back spasms are different from normal “tics” that I’m sure everyone has experienced at one point or another. Normal tics don’t tend to be very painful, more annoying than anything depending on how often they happen. Back spasms on the other hand are very painful. It’s like every muscle in your back seizes (tightens) up and just stays that way, it doesn’t stop. Obviously after a short period of time the tension being built up in the muscle and having no release, it causes unbearable pain. Most times I’m in so much pain that I’m in tears. Sometimes taking a hot bath helps to relieve some of that tension, but often times it’s just a temporary fix, and I mean, maybe a half hour of ease in pain.

At my last doctor’s appointment I was given a new prescription of “Ultram” witch is a pain reliever for my back spasms. Pain reliever my butt. I don’t know what pain it was relieving but it wasn’t my back for sure. I woke up about 11:45 whimpering because of the pain (funny what we do in our sleep) so I immediately took two of the Ultram and jumped in the hot bath. I was in there for a good 45 minuets I guess. The hot bath definitely helped, but the water does tend to get cold at some point. Lol. The Ultram was not working though. I almost went ahead and took a couple of my “happy” pills (Laratab, Hydrocodone, whatever you want to call them) but being that I had just taken the Ultram I didn’t want to chance anything. I don’t like taking the Laratab unless I have no other choice, because it is addictive, and Lord knows I don’t need that. I’m usually pretty good about taking anything really, even advil. I don’t generally take anything unless there is just no other option and the pain is just so unbearable I can’t stand it any longer. Call it stubbornness, but other than the medications I “have” to take I’m just not much of a pill popper.

Well, I managed to get three hours of sleep after my bath anyhow. It was about 1:45 by the time I got out of the bath, took the Ultram, and got ready to go back to bed. I was awake again at 4:15. Not sure I really ever went to sleep, but I did get some rest. I called work, told them I wasn’t going to be in, and took 2 of my happy pills. I’m starting to feel better now. Starting to get sleepy actually. I guess before too long I’ll be back in bed. Hopefully all will be much better tomarrow.

Cats or Frogs?

2005-06-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

Last evening I was out in the garage taking a break from updating a friend’s template and smoking a cigarette, when I heard this horrible noise coming from the kitchen. I mentioned I have two cats, well, it was louder than normal, but I thought maybe one of them was coughing up a hairball. I ran in the house in the direction of the noise, and no cats. Not even the hint of one, until the ‘noise’ bellowed out again scaring me darn near out of my shorts.
I searched everywhere to locate where the loud noise was coming from, to no avail. By now both cats were in the kitchen curious as to what this noise was also. One on the table, and the other sitting directly under the window sill looking up. I don’t run the air conditioning much, so I had the windows open, so I determined that it was probably a frog sitting right outside the window bellowing inside and went about my business of making the bed and doing some chores that I had been avoiding all day. I listened for the noise to happen again, but never heard it and thought maybe I scared the frog off when I yelled at the cat to get off the table.
I finished up in the bedroom and walked into the kitchen to get something to drink and noticed out the corner or my eye something hopping across the floor. I of course knew it was a frog then, and tried to get it to hop back into the kitchen so I wouldn’t have to chase it all over the living room with the furniture in the way, at least until I could get my “frog” container so I could scoop him up and put him back outside where he belongs. As you can tell, this happens quite often. I’m not sure how the little buggers get in the house, although I have on occasion opened the door and seen them right on the screen door just waiting for the opportunity to jump into the house. Yes, they are the “small” ones. How this incredibly loud noise came from such a small creature, I do not know, and while I hear the frogs chirping (or whatever they do is called) on a nightly basis, I have to say I have never heard one up close and personal like that before.
Unfortunately for the little frog, one of the cats also discovered he was in the house and decided it would be fun to bat the poor thing around and carry him off to play with. Typical cat. I chased that stupid cat all over the house before he finally gave the little guy up, but it was too late, he was gone. Usually I have a couple of minuets to grab the scooper and get the frog before either one of the cats become aware of what is going on, but not this time, Kitty was right on my tail as I walked into the kitchen and while I tried to keep him back…no doing. Now, at least, the next time I hear this indescribable noise, I will know what it is and look a little harder for the frog. I should probably get rid of the plants in the kitchen, might make it easier.

Car Situation

My car situation hasn’t changed much. My dad had talked about putting a new engine in it because he determined that if another head cracked that the engine was probably warped and needed replacement. I guess that idea turned out to be a little more expensive than he anticipated because he called me a few days later wanting to get me a “scooter”.
Now, don’t get me wrong, if you don’t have far to go as far as work and such, and can tolerate the weather conditions, sure, it would be a great thing to have. Good gas mileage, he said, 80mpg! Ok, that’s great. Lord knows we all need a good vehicle that gets great gas mileage. I work about 15 minuets away driving a regular car, in pretty much any type of weather (although sometimes the torrential downpours do tend to slow you down a bit) can you see this on a scooter that goes 50mph? He said, “You’d have to wear a weather protective suit to protect you from the rain.” Um, yeah. 95 degrees, 100% humidity, and here I am riding down the road on a scooter wearing a weather protective suit, in the pouring rain, with 4 bags of groceries dangling from my arms and sweating so profusely that at any moment I may pass out from heat exhaustion as 50 cars pass by me because I’m going to slow for them. Sounds like fun, yes?
I love my dad, dearly, I can’t tell you how much he has done for me over the years, and I understand completely why he would want me to go this route with the gas situation deteriorating as it is, but I just don’t think in the large scale of things that a scooter would be the best route to go. Here I was thinking of something like a Chevy Cavalier or something similar that gets relatively good gas mileage and would get me to my sisters or brother’s place when the occasion would arise. That would be impossible on a scooter. Groceries would be impossible. Lol.
Anyhow, my next door neighbor is looking into getting me a vehicle, and hopefully sometime this week I will be in a newer car. I say hopefully because they are going out of town the following week, and if something happens to the car during the three week period they are gone, I’m pretty much in a sink hole without a ladder. I am to the point now that I have to put water in the radiator everyday, so I don’t imagine it’s going to last too much longer.

New Plates

I will be putting up a couple of new blogger templates at my website. I haven’t been posting much because I have been working so hard on one particular template trying to get it to work the way I wanted it too. Needless to say, I didn’t get it to work the way I wanted, but it’s finished, and I think it looks good.
The second one I’m posting is good also, I think, it’s different in that it has ‘moving waters’. Oddly, that one only took me a few hours to do the graphics and they coding. Go figure.

List of things I need to get done today:
1. Bake a birthday cake for my boss
2. Bake a birthday lasagna for my boss
3. Update my Templates pages
4. Do a load of ‘work’ clothes
5. Post to my other two Blogs

Not too long of a list, but time consuming to say the least. I’m sure there are a couple more things I should add, but of course I can’t think of them at the moment. TTFN!

The Blues

2005-05-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I have got the blues, and as you can see I did not go to Tuscaloosa this weekend. Turns out my car didn’t need a new water pump after all. No, no. Much worse. I have a busted head or head gasket. Needless to say, I was pretty much told since my car is 11 years old, has over 250k miles on it, and I have already replaced the head last year, it’s time for a newer vehicle.

That’s all fine and dandy if you can afford one. I don’t make big bucks; I can barely feed myself half the time and now I have to worry about :

1. Not having a down payment for a ‘newer’ car
2. Not having money for a monthly car payment
3. Not having money for increased car insurance and tags
4. Weather my car will make it long enough to try and work all of the above out.

Seriously, if I could afford a newer car, do you really think I would be driving around an 11 year old junker? No way. I’m not even the greedy type, I don’t want anything expensive or stylish. Just a non gas guzzling, 4 door whatever will get me to and from work and wherever my fancy might take me car. Actually, I would really like a Honda Accord, but there is no way on this green earth I can afford that, let alone fix it if God forbid something happens to it.

I’m not so concerned about the insurance thing…I only pay $30 bucks a month. Yeah, 11 year old car and I haven’t had any accidents since I was 18. Well, I have, but none reported to the insurance companies and the one I had didn’t involve any other car but mine and both sides of the bridge in Decatur, Alabama. (Hydroplaned, wasn’t fun!) Anyhow, I figure with my good insurance thing it would only go up $50, maybe. I hope.

Needless to say, while the rest of my family is in Tuscaloosa having fun and playing with the new baby, here I sit, depressed and all alone with a beat up old piece of clunker that is going to die at any moment.

There’s a Hallmark card for ya.

About the Elephant

2005-05-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Annie for asking a very good question about the Alabama Mascot and what it has to do with the Crimson Tide. Short answer? Well, Big Al doesn’t really have anything to do with the Crimson Tide, in fact, until 1907 the University of Alabama’s football team was just referred to in newspapers as either “Varsity”, or “Crimson White.”

In 1907, Hugh Roberts, a sports writer for the Birmingham-Age Herald, tagged the line “Crimson Tide” after a rough and tough game between Alabama and Auburn. The game was played on a muddy and wet field, Auburn was the favorite to win, however the “Thin Red Line” played an awesome game in the red mud and held Auburn to a 6-6 tie, and forever earned the name “Crimson Tide.” Former sports editor of the Birmingham News, Zipp Newman, is most credited with popularizing the name more than any other writer.

Alabama became associated with the “elephant” back in 1930 when Coach Wallace Wade assembled a great football team. On October 8, 1930, a sports writer for the Atlanta Journal, Everett Strupper, wrote a story of the Alabama-Mississippi game he had witnessed in Tuscaloosa.

Strupper wrote, “That Alabama team of 1930 is a typical Wade machine, powerful, big, tough, fast, aggressive, well-schooled in fundamentals, and the best blocking team for this early in the season that I have ever seen. When those big brutes hit you, I mean you go down and stay down, often for an additional two minutes. Coach Wade started his second team that was plenty big and they went right to their knitting scoring a touchdown in the first quarter against one of the best fighting small lines that I have seen. For Ole Miss was truly battling the big boys for every inch of ground.

Strupper went on to say, “At the end of the quarter, the earth started to tremble, there was a distant rumble that continued to grow. Some excited fan in the stands bellowed, ‘Hold your horses, the elephants are coming,’ and out stamped the Alabama Varsity. It was the first time that I had seen it and the size of the entire eleven nearly knocked me cold, men that I had seen play last year looking like they had nearly doubled in size!”

Strupper and many other writers continued to refer to the Alabama linemen as “Red Elephants,” the color referring to the crimson jerseys. The 1930 team ended the season 10-0. It shut out 8 opponents and allowed only 13 points all season, while scoring 217. The “Red Elephants” then “rolled” over Washington State 24-0 in the Rose Bowl and were declared National Champions.

So, that’s the story of how old Big Al came to be. I had read this story a few years ago after a game; I believe it was an article within the game fliers they give you. I obviously had to go back and get some details because while I remembered the story, I didn’t remember all the names.

I hope this covers it!

GO BO!

2005-05-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

American Idol, yes, Bo.

I don't know what is going on with blogger tonight, I have been trying to view this page all evening and keep getting a nasty 404. I don't understand how I can post anything, but hey.

I'm out for the night!

Distracted

2005-05-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

I get so distracted sometimes...

I walked into the kitchen, poured a cup of coffee (I drink way too much!), and instead of putting the cup in the microwave to warm up, I stuck it in the fridge.

Yeah.

Busy Body

2005-05-24T14:18:00.000-07:00

As you can see, I have been quite busy since opening this new blog page for my personal thoughts. New template, worked on some new graphics...I'm quite happy with the result.

Believe it or not, I'm not quite finished. I still have to do the whole "get listed" thing so I won't be the only soul out in internetdom who is reading my blog.

You can probably tell that I'm a bit of a Alabama fan. lol. Every year right around this time I start longing for Alabama Football. It's still a couple of months away, but for whatever reason I know that as soon as the weather starts to warm up it's time for some football! My brother graduated from the University of Alabama, so of course that is where my loyalties lie, it doesn't hurt that I grew up with the love of football.

We don't have anything in this state as far as professional sports, so we have to rely on our faithful college teams, and let me tell you, college football in Alabama is something to be in awe of. I have never lived in a state that is so loyal to it's college teams! On game day, and sometimes before game day you can see hordes of cars heading to Tuscaloosa for the game touting their banners and pom pom's, it's a wonderful site to behold. Yeah, ok, so I'm really a fan.

I lived in Tuscaloosa for a bit when I first came down Alabama way. I was staying with my brother and he happened to live about a block from Bryant Denny Stadium. That was amazing during football season. We could sit outside and listen to the game, hear the fans screaming, and see folks walking about the stadium hurrying to get in to see the action. *sigh* While my brother was attending UA he was afforded the opportunity to work as a PT trainer for the football team, and with that I was able to barter my way in to a couple of games. There is nothing like sitting in the 'players family' section and watching an exciting game of Alabama football. R-R-R-O-O-O-L-L-L TIDE ROLL!!!!

Let me get off this subject now. lol. My car wasn't fixed this weekend, witch really sucked because as I mentioned I had planned on taking a trip to Tuscaloosa to visit my new niece and family. It also sucked because I barbecued, made potato salad and all the fixings for these folks and they didn't show up, or call to even let me know that they weren't coming. Talk about depressed! When I went in to work Monday I had planned on giving said person some serious words, however she was off, so I guess that will have to wait. I actually probably won't say anything at all because after telling someone else about it, she immediately called her husband and told (LOL! The power women have!) her husband he was going to fix my car on Friday being that he was off for the Memorial Day Weekend. I even offered to give them some money for the work, but she refused and said that it wasn't necessary. (God Bless you ANNE!)

I had wanted at least a couple of days to make sure the car was running okay and that there weren't going to be any unexpected problems before I started the four hour trip up there. I suppose I could drive the heck out of it Friday after work to make sure all is a okay, but my folks who are driving down from Kentucky need to know if I'm going to make it before they make reservations at the Ramada. God willing, everything will be fine.

I was supposed to have a doctor's appointment today, however I received a nice letter in the mail yesterday letting me know that my appointment had been changed to Thursday. That stinks because it's pay day, and it's normally the day I have to do all kinds of errands. I won't have much time after I get off work to get the check cashed, get home to change and get to the Doctor's office. Grr. I hate being in a rush. Ah, well. I'll get over it.

This is turning into a rather long post and I have much I still need to get done, so I best be getting to it. Just want to add that I was not at all happy with the season finale of Las Vegas last night. Why not just end the season with everyone getting screwed in some way?

You can't even blog--->

2005-05-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

It's pretty sad really. You get them in your e-mail. Bombarded by them in internet advertising. I suppose there are those that enjoy Porn, however, I am not one of them.

While checking out my blogs this morning, I noticed I had some comments left on this blog. I checked them out only to discover that someone had left a link to a porn site. Argh. I guess spamming isn't enough, let's just go straight to bloggers and get them too.

Sheez.

Early

2005-05-20T22:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it's very early in the morning. I made the mistake of taking a nap when I got home from work today. Actually I fell asleep on the couch, but the point is that I didn't end up waking up until after 7pm. I guess this is going to be a regular Friday occourence. :)

As you can see I have moved some of the non-faith related items from the Nest here to by new blog site. Keep your eyes open cause some changes will occour. Of course I will just have to create a new look for my new blog. lol.

Well, I know this isn't much as far as having a lot to say, but it is getting about that time where I should force myself to get some sleep. I have a long couple of days ahead of me. Chores tomarrow and Sunday hopefully my car will be getting a much needed water pump.

peace out.

Do You Know???

2005-05-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

What kind of grass this is called?

I of course know what it is because I'm surrounded by it, just want to see how many folks out there can identify this type of grass. :)

Crazy Kat!!!!

2005-05-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned that I have two adorable kitties. Today, the one pictured above did something a bit odd…I actually still can’t figure out how he did it even.

First I have to explain that I live in my parent’s home while they are in Kentucky finishing up a contract for the military before my father retires. At one point they owned 3 homes…they are down to two, however all the stuff that was left in the 3rd home when they moved from N.H. down here to Alabama still remains in the basement of my Grandparent’s home. (Also in N.H.)

Now, I live in a 3 bedroom house, most of witch is furnished with partially my stuff and partially theirs. Whenever they come down to visit they bring a truck load of stuff with them until the day comes when my dad does retire. Well, the 3rd bedroom is jam packed full of stuff ranging from old clothes/computers/furniture you name it, you can probably find it in there. They’re last trip down they brought yet another load, of witch due to there being no space remaining to store is still in the garage. Basically if you can walk in the garage you are doing well.

Tigger is a very smart cat. The garage, like most is not finished, so until recently the little bugger would find himself in the attic roaming around. I had tried everything I could do to prevent him from going up there, but no matter what I did he would find his way up there. I finally had to nail particle board all the way up the wall from my Dad’s work bench to the rafters, and close off any hole he could fit in. He can’t get up there now, and he is not happy about it at all, let’s me know constantly with his crying.)

I don’t smoke in the house, my parents didn’t want to come back to a icky smelling house, and I don’t blame them. I don’t really care for the smoke smell lingering in the house either, so I go outside or in the garage to smoke. (Yes, I know it’s a disgusting habit and I should quit, for more than one reason.) Well, I was out there minding my own business when I kept hearing this faint meowing. I walked up and down the garage along the little pathway from the backdoor to the garage door trying to detect where the meowing was coming from. At first thought it sounded like he had managed to get in the attic again, witch wouldn’t have really surprised me. (Like I said, he’s smart!) I started searching the rafters to see if I could see his little head poking fun at me from above, but no such luck. I started to think maybe he had fallen in between some of the piles of boxes and couldn’t get out, so I got on top of an old computer chair to see if I could lean over and find him. Nothing. Again with the faint meowing.

I forgot to mention, on top of all the boxes and other assorted items in the garage, there is also a hot tub. Lol. Yes, I know, my parents are pack rats. On top of the hot tub is one of those old car top carriers. When I say old, I mean old…I remember using that thing when I was ten years old..and we all know how OLD I am now. Inside this car top carrier are a bunch of broken down boxes that I was told to keep so it would make packing some stuff up later easier to do. Well, the lid is on it, but not on well, but well enough that the cats couldn’t get into it and do anything naughty (like potty).

I happened to be leaning on top of the car top carrier while bending over to see if I could spot Tigger, and low and behold heard a scratch coming from INSIDE the carrier!!! I lifted up the lid and there he was meowing his little head off!!! How he got in there I really don’t know. I didn’t think there was any space left open large enough for either cat to get into, but evidently the little guy found a way, course once he did, he couldn’t get back out.

He couldn’t have been in there for very long, I had only been home from work for a couple of hours and he bugged me for at least a half hour after I walked in the door. I’m so glad I found him when I did, poor thing could have been in there for a good while before I started missing his incessant crying.

Icky Friday

2005-05-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I have had an icky Friday. You would think I would be happy it being the last day of the work week, and I was when I finally walked out of the door of work today.

Friday the 13th. Huh. I'm not one to be superstition, but sometimes things just happen to make you think otherwise.

I spilled very hot coffee all over my hand, at the time we are getting our butt's kicked so I really didn't have time to deal with the pain, or anything else for that matter. (No burn marks as of yet, surprisingly.)

Brac closure list, and military pay day, all in one. Um, yeah. I don't know if I mentioned it, but I work about 3 mins from Ft. Rucker, and most of our business is military related. You would think that people don't eat any other time except on pay day.

There was never doubt in my mind that Rucker wouldn't be on the closure list, so I don't see why that was a big deal. I mean c'mon...it's a global training facility for army aviation. Not going anywhere anytime soon, I'm guessing. Why our government thinks it is a good idea to shut down any bases at this time is a big question to me. What are they thinking? Yeah, good idea to close down bases when weather or not our president wants to admit it, we are still at war. Iraq won't be the end of it either, North Korea is more than likely next.

My water pump on my car is kuput. Fortunately my wonderful brother in law was kind enough to send me some money so I can get it fixed. I have all the parts, now I just need someone to fix it for me for a cheap rate. I'm pretty car savvy, but I'm not THAT savvy. I can do more than most women, change the tires, oil, spark plugs, check the fluids. I know my car pretty well, so if something goes wrong, I can pretty much tell the mechanic what's wrong with it. I do sometimes use words such as dohicky, and thingamajig, but I figure I know what I'm talking about, so should the mechanic! :)

Not too much else really exciting is going on, at least not that I'm aware of. lol. I just felt like jotting something down for a minuet, but now I'm done.

Proud Daddy...

2005-05-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this is my little brother? :)

I can remember when my sister and I used to make the poor kid do all kinds of not so nice things, just for the fun of it. My how times have changed. My little brother, with a little girl.
waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!

And Heeeerrrrreeesss Avery!

2005-05-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

Notice how the new Mom is so thin already????? sheesh. :)

AHHHHH, FRIDAY

2005-05-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I can't even say how happy I am that it's friday! It's not only been a busy week for me at work, but been tiring as far as working on transferring everything from my old place to here. I'm still not happy with the layout I have here, but at least now I know I can tweak and play with it a lot more than I could at the other place. I'm no where near done with my 'plans' so I'm sure I will be busy the better part of the weekend trying to work some stuff out, but at least I can do it at my leisure.

I don't know if I have mentioned that I'm the type of person who is a bit retentive...as in, I hate this layout and it is really irritating me so I have to do something about it now before it drives me crazy, retentive. It's not that it's bad or anything, it just isn't doing anything for me for whatever reason. I would really appreciate any feedback from anyone who might happen to stop by, if that is you can get your two cents in before I go and change everything. lol. I have been having problems with my lovely Photoshop not doing what I want it to do, well, let me clarify..It's doing what I want it too, but when I save it, it doesn't look the same as it does when it's in photoshop. Kinda irritating. I have tried every tip and trick I could find out there in internet space, but ufnortunately so far nothing seems to be fixing the problem. I'm wondering if it's my browser, although I don't recall ever having any problems like this with it before. I use a great little diddy called Crazy Browser. I love it because it blocks just about every pop up you can imagine, gives you the ablitity to have several different web pages open at the same time, within the same program, so you don't have to worry about all those little annoyances that arrive with the use of Internet Explorer. I have been using it for probably 4 years or so now and I can honestly say that I love it! Last I checked it's blocked over 800 pop ups in the last year, not bad for a free program!

Yes, I know I got a bit distracted there. As I mentioned, I'm beat. I woke up this morning and litterally crawled out of bed, went in the kitchen and started the coffee pot, and fell asleep standing there waiting for my coffee. I hate mornings like that. I usually wake right up once the alarm goes off, and couldn't go back to sleep if I wanted too. Not the case today because all I wanted to do is crawl back in bed and go right back to sleep! Needless to say I was late for work. heh. Not that my being late is anything new, I'm horrible about being on time for anything, but I was REALLY late today.

Anyhoo, enough of my mindless drivel, I'm outta here for now. Toodles!

It's Official..........

2005-05-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

I'm a new Auntie...again. :) Baby Avery Marie was born today, 5-5-05 at 4:38pm, 6lbs 3oz. (How cool would it have been had she been born at 5pm?) No pictures yet, but mommy and baby are fine! ttfn!

Tornadoes, Rain and Hail Oh My!

2005-05-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yeah, it’s raining, thunder storming, and threats of tornadoes are in the midst. I find it to be no big deal, but I suppose if you weren’t from these parts, it would seem a bit scary. If you live here for any amount of time you sort of get used to the thunder storm warnings, tornado watches and the like, it’s a pretty regular occurrence. In comparison, people who live up north are rather used to the snow, whereas down here we would not only be in shock, but all of our roads would be closed. The state would be closed. Lol. Believe it or not, but it has happened. I wasn’t here when it did, but it was such a big deal that you can go into some restaurants in Tuscaloosa and they have newspaper clippings hanging on the wall. There are two malls in Tuscaloosa, one fairly close to the highway. The parking lot was packed with semi trucks because they had no other place to go and the roads were so bad that they just couldn’t drive any further. The state shut down the highways and roads, no work, no school, no nothing. The next day it melted of course. Snow doesn’t last for any amount of time in Alabama.

I live about four hours south of Tuscaloosa, so the chances of that ever happening down here are slim to none. I think in the last 10 years I have seen flurries once, and woke up one morning with snow on my car, but it didn’t stick to the ground. Last Christmas I went to my sisters, she lives about 45 min from New Orleans, and go figure, I saw snow, and some actually stuck to the ground. (On Christmas Day, no less!) I don’t understand it, but they got no snow here, however there was a pretty bad tornado touch down in Montgomery, I believe.

And what joy, hurricane season is just around the corner. It’s supposed to be another above average year as far as hurricanes. I have to wonder if the area I live in is going to be as lucky as it has been. I was here for Opal, and that was no picnic, I can’t imagine anything stronger than her coming through here and if it did we would be talking major damages. As it was with Opal, we didn’t have power or water for almost a week. Power lines were down everywhere, our next door neighbors had a tree go down in their backyard, missed their house by maybe a foot. You have to understand, we live about 45 minuets from Panama City, so if they get hit, we will too and although it may not be as bad as when it hits them there, it’s still going to be pretty rotten, of course this is depending on the size of the storm too. The eye of Opal went right over Enterprise, and you know the saying, anything east of the eye is going to get wapped, well, we got pretty wapped. It wasn’t as horrible as I thought it would be, fact, my parents went to bed right in the middle of the storm. I sat up for a few hours and listened to the radio before I finally fell asleep. I think the worst is when it happens at night, you never know what you are going to wake up too.

How I got all on this weather kick, I don’t know. Lol. I was actually doing some spring cleaning and decided to take a short break. I suppose I should get back to it, otherwise I will never finish all I had intended on doing today. I think the rain is making me lazy because really all I want to do is go crawl back into bed and take a nap. Lazy Daze.

Quickie

2005-04-24T00:53:00.000-07:00

Just a note to let all know that I am indeed feeling a bit better. At least the pain isn’t as constant, just a flash here and there. I can probably deal with that. Seems as if it gets worse throughout the day for whatever reason.

If you were interested in reading my sister’s screenplay, sorry, she asked that I take it down. Seems that it was highly accessible without even visiting my pages at all, and she of course is concerned that it will fall into the hands of a not so nice person. I don’t blame her at all, so naturally I have taken it down. I am considering making a password protection area for download of it, but it would require emailing me for information. I’m not sure how many people out there would want to go through that much trouble just to read a GREAT screenplay. Yeah, yeah, she IS my sister, but it’s really good! Any takers out there let me know and email me.

Well, I have a lot of ‘online’ stuff to take care of today. I’m trying to update one of my other pages and it’s been quite a chore getting things to work the way I want them too. It’s very frustrating because I’m one of those highly creative people, unfortunately I no very little about coding html. (In comes the frustration.) I’m naïve enough to think if I can envision it to be one way than I should be able to make it that way. It’s not that easy. Needless to say, what I thought would be a relatively easy job has turned out to be a pile of a mess!

I eventually plan on revamping this site also. I used Trelix to create this site, and while I like the functionality and ease of use, I don’t particularly like some of the limitations, or design. Yeah, I’m too creative for my own good, I want my own design!

Well, I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. It’s beautiful here in good ol Alabama! I think I will barbeque up some chicken and make some potato salad for good measure. Mmm. J

Oh The Pain! :(

2005-04-21T05:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, I hurt. Sad to say, but somehow I have done something to my back and I’m in so much pain right now, that I don’t think I could fully describe it, even if I wanted too.

I’m only posting in order to let my ‘regulars’ know that I’m about to take a hot bath, take some happy, happy pills, and put myself in a self induced comma until further notice. Rotten deal in all of this is that it’s a beautiful day, and other than the pain, I feel great. Go figure.

Whil Wheaton, and Some Icky Life Stuff :)

2005-04-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

When I was growing up I remember watching the original Star Trek series. Then there was the standing in line going around the movie theatre to see the first Star Wars. (Yes, I’m THAT old.) Then there was E.T. I still have a hard time seeing Drew Barrymore as an adult. I’ll always see her in my mind as that cute little girl from E.T. Evidently my father’s affliction with science fiction has passed down to a couple of his children because my sister and I are totally into it to this day. How many out there remember the original Battle Star Gallictica or Buck Roger’s in the 21st Century? I do, watched them both when I was growing up. My how science fiction has evolved. When I was a kid I thought the special effects were phenomenal, but if I were to watch any of those shows now I would find them inane compared to what we are used to seeing from sci-fi now. My opinion is you can never have too much sci-fi. How I miss the sci-fi channel. *sigh*

This afternoon, while I was on my break I read an article about celebrity bloggers. The article talked about how celebrities are now making their way to their own blog pages, so when I got home from work today, I decided to check some out. I didn’t check them all out, although there aren’t really that many to begin with. The few I went too were rather; let’s just say more for publicity than blogging. I imagine there are a great deal of people out there who want to know what it was like to make a movie, I’m not one of them. I want to know what is behind the actor/actress/writer/director. I have to say I didn’t find much substance in what I saw.

I then stumbled onto the Forbes magazine website that listed the best celebrity blogs. The number one rated celebrity blog was Wil Wheaton, so I checked it out. If you don’t know who Wil Wheaton is, you may remember him from the movie “Stand by Me” or Star Trek Next Generation. (He played Wesley Crusher.) I am highly impressed by his blog. It’s very thoughtful, insightful, and he’s pretty funny too. Ok, so I’m not much into the whole poker thing, but I read some of the postings from his archives and I enjoyed reading what he had to say. He updates his blog daily, runs the site himself and is in the process of revamping the website. I highly encourage you to check his blog out here. He certainly doesn’t need me sending any viewers his direction, he evidently gets quite a few hits without any help from anyone, but I found it interesting, and I think other’s will also. I didn’t check out any of the other celeb sites that were listed yet, but if you’d like to check them out you can at the link I provided above.

Ok, so this wasn’t entirely about sci-fi, but I guess you can see where it went. Lol. I have to go the long way around to get to anything sometimes. I’m working on making another link page that I am calling ‘blinks’ that will link to other blog pages that I like. On that same page I will be including a couple of banners that folks out there can add to their blogs, if by chance anyone happens to like what I have to say.

I had a pretty lousy day at work today. Lost my temper with a kid I work with because of his tendency to be a smart mouth. It takes quite a lot to tick me off to the point of no return. I usually let things like that slide off my back, but for whatever reason today it just wasn’t going to happen. Probably due to build up, because this kid is just so disrespectful that he tends to irk me on a daily basis. Not like I’m the only one, it’s only Tuesday and so far he’s had a shouting match with at least two of us so far this week. Ok, I didn’t really shout, I raised my voice a bit to the point that my boss had to come and get me out of the situation before I went back and choked the life out of the little puke. I have only ever lost my temper one other time like that at work in the six years I have worked there. I didn’t get in trouble for it. My boss knows me well enough to know that I don’t just go off like that for no reason at all, weather anything was said to him about it, I don’t know; I was told to take my lunch and cool down. In most cases when I get that mad, I try to calm myself down and then talk to the person about it one on one. Well, he had been nagging at me for the better part of the day, and I just couldn’t take his disrespect for me or my customers any longer. I have asked him for the better part of a month (since he started) to speak to me with respect, because up until today I did the same to him, weather or not he deserved it. (And in most cases he did not.) It just really annoys me that some kids today think its ‘cute’ to be disrespectful. It’s not cute. It’s ugly.
Yeah, I know, I was ugly also, and I shouldn’t have done what I did no matter how much he deserved it. Of course I didn’t start feeling guilty about it until after I cooled off. Bad part is that I don’t think it would have made a difference had I spoken to him one on one rather than airing it in front of other employees and customers. He probably would have made it a point to be even more disrespectful is my guess. I don’t imagine he’ll be around too much longer, so I suppose I shouldn’t worry about it. All I can do is pray that the Lord will lift this burden from me, and I know he will.

Never Enough Time

2005-04-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like there just aren't enough hours in the day? Well, I have had one of those days where there just isn't enough time for me to get everything accomplished that I wanted to get done. Don't get me wrong, I have accomplished a great deal today, just not the things I had on my 'to do' list.
This is the first opportunity I have had to sit since I got home from work. Pay day’s are always fun. Grocery shopping, paying bills. By the time I got home it was after 3, then I had to put everything away, change the kitty box, feed the kitties, wash the dishes, fix the stereo, and did this all before I even got out of my work uniform. It took me almost an hour to fix the stereo, so combine all the ‘other’ stuff and by the time I finally changed my clothes it was after five. Time to make dinner. Never ending some days, you know.
Needless to say, all the dishes I dirtied to make dinner are clean and now I’m too tired to do much of anything else. I can’t imagine adding a couple of kids into the mix, but I suppose you make do when you need too. ;)
Unfortunately I had one of those night’s last night were I didn’t get much sleep. I went to bed late because I just had too much on my mind and couldn’t stop it from spinning. Even after I went to bed, it was probably an hour before I finally dozed off, only to have to get up to go to the bathroom. I think I did that 4 times between 1am and 5:30am when the alarm went off. I sure didn’t like that noise.
Needless to say, as much as I wanted to write about something else this evening I’m going to cut this one short, take a shower and head for bed early tonight. Thank God tomorrow is Friday.

Apple Cider Vinegar Cure All?

2005-04-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

I had intended on posting to my blog yesterday but got rather distracted and ended up doing lots of research yesterday on a couple different things. One of witch was apple cider vinegar. After I had breakfast yesterday I happened to be watching an infomercial. I don’t have cable so there wasn’t much else on at that hour. I don’t generally take anything to heart about infomercials in general, I know they are just out to make money, and this guy was no different trying to sell his book. HOWEVER, when he mentioned a cure all for acid reflux disease I perked up a bit. Of course this guy wasn’t going to let out too many secrets because then there would be no point to buy his book, but he did mention that vinegar would cure acid reflux/heartburn and went on to explain what the drugs that we are given really do to our stomach. I have suffered from ARD for about 3 years now and been taking prevacid for it for a couple of those years. I suspect some other medications I take are the reason for my stomach problems to begin with, but I imagine that is exactly what the drug companies want so they can make even more money.
I had always thought the reason for my ARD was because my stomach was producing too much acid. Turns out that I couldn’t have been further from the truth. The reason people get heartburn/acid reflux is because there isn’t enough acid in the stomach to digest the food, witch in turns causes the acid to let you know about it and cause you to be miserable until you take a Rolaids, or whatever else you can get your hands on just to make it stop. The ARD prescription drugs that are on the market do stop you from getting heartburn, however they also stop your stomach from producing acid witch is needed for proper digestion. Needless to say, all this time I thought I couldn’t live without prevacid; I’m actually probably doing more damage than I know of by taking it.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m one of those people that are so curious I had to immediately jump on the internet and find out if what this fella on television was saying was true. You know, the old curiosity killed the cat thing. J I immediately came across a site that not only listed heartburn and ARD, but a host of other things as well that ACV will cure or help to relieve. After inspecting the website and going over everything I could find, I searched other pages as well and came up with the same outcome. I’m not generally one of those people who believe that homeopathic remedies work, I’m sure some of them do for certain people. Well, I started taking the ACV in accordance to the instructions on the website and have to say that I had no problems sleeping last night, in fact I slept longer than I have in ages, my headache disappeared within a matter of minuets and I woke up this morning feeling better than I have in quite a while. Trick to this is weather or not it had anything to do with the ACV or if it was just my ‘time’ to have a good day. Lol. Yes, I’m always the skeptic, but I have an open mind that allows me to try new and different things. I figure I will stick with this for awhile and see if will actually do what I would like it too, and if it does, hopefully I can stop taking this prescription and have no need for it ever again. I personally am doing enough for the drug companies; they don’t need any more of my help.
Here’s a brief list of other things that ACV will help out with: relief of allergies, food and pet. Sinus Infections, acne, high cholesterol, Candida, sore throat, ear infections, dermatitis, gout and arthritis to name a few. Be sure to check out the website at the end of my blog as to how you should take it, because this is very important. You don’t want to just go and swig a couple of mouthfuls of ACV, it’s not only gross but it will do some serious damage to your teeth. Basically you are to mix a teaspoon of ACV with 8 ounces of water 2-3 times a day. Personally, I am not a fan of vinegar to begin with (ACV is in pill format also, check your local herb shop) I can’t stand the smell or the taste, but instead of using regular water I used propel lemon flavored fitness water and it actually wasn’t that noticeable until the last couple of sips. I had tried mixing it with tea, but that was a NO GO. J

Earth Clinic (Information on using ACV)