Fall Comes To Stately IPB Manor

« Trendspotting: The New Jersey Devils Hotness Primer Revisited

Woolgathering With IPB On The First Day of Fall »

Fall Comes To Stately IPB Manor

September 20, 2008 by Schnookie

Gentle Reader, we are watching hockey right now. Sure, it’s the Rangers and Senators, and it’s preseason, but… IT’S HOCKEY!

About these ads

Posted in News and Notes, Pommerdoodling! | 132 Comments

132 Responses

on September 20, 2008 at 10:31 pm Caitlin

I WANT A VICTORY EURO MATS SO BADLY.

WOOOOOOOOO, HOCKEY!

I still have none in my life. Boo. But I did get free preseason tickets so yay! :)
on September 20, 2008 at 10:36 pm Schnookie

Yay for free tickets!!! And what are you doing not hanging out with the Stars, Caitlin? Myra’s spending morning, noon and night with them, isn’t she? :P

(Victory Euro Matses aren’t that hard to come by, you know. All you need is a chest-hairy Playmobil guy and some model paint… :P)
on September 20, 2008 at 10:37 pm Schnookie

Oh, and you need Eurotrashy Playmobil pink sunglasses. Those are key.
on September 20, 2008 at 10:42 pm Schnookie

My life is exploding with hockey-esque things right now. We’ve got a Murder, She Wrote episode on in which Viktor Pamchenko is playing some kind of questionable character. Pamchenko! Doug Dorsey can’t be far behind!
on September 20, 2008 at 11:13 pm Caitlin

Pamchenko! Doug Dorsey can’t be far behind!

THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING! Surely this means hockey is RIGHT HERE!
on September 20, 2008 at 11:16 pm Caitlin

Oh, and Frisco is a long, toll-filled ride from my place of residence. Otherwise I’d totally be there, letting Fabian Brunnstrom explode my ovaries with awesomeness.
on September 20, 2008 at 11:19 pm Schnookie

THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING!

:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Oh, and Frisco is a long, toll-filled ride from my place of residence.

What’s with the Stars and the Devils insisting on being long, toll-filled distances from us?
on September 20, 2008 at 11:45 pm Caitlin

What’s with the Stars and the Devils insisting on being long, toll-filled distances from us?

I know, right? I don’t feel like driving 40 minutes away! (Unless it’s to make a stop at IKEA. Which I’m purposely avoiding at the moment. Thanks, friendly Swedes, but no thanks.)
on September 20, 2008 at 11:49 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I’ve been missing all the first-days-of-training-camp fun! I have a lot to catch up on, I see.

Oh, and Sid is a Paddleball Gamer. Did I mention that? I did? Hm.
on September 20, 2008 at 11:50 pm Schnookie

What did IKEA do to you? (It gave Pookie SARS five years ago, which is why we avoid it.)
on September 20, 2008 at 11:50 pm Schnookie

Why no, Patty, I hadn’t heard that Sid was a Paddleball Gamer. Huh. Who knew?
on September 20, 2008 at 11:55 pm Patty (in Dallas)

It gave her SARS? Wow.

I still have $70 on an Ikea gift card that I got when I bought my couch. I need to run out there. Maybe I’ll stop and check out the practice tomorrow on my way.
on September 20, 2008 at 11:59 pm Schnookie

Well, it wasn’t SARS so much as the first onset of allergies in her life, but it’s all the same really. :P
on September 21, 2008 at 12:00 am Patty (in Dallas)

Totally the same thing.

Maybe I’ll sabotage something on Pookie’s behalf next time I’m there.
on September 21, 2008 at 12:04 am Pookie

I’d appreciate that, Patty! Thanks! Leave a foam cube in the plastic ball pit.
on September 21, 2008 at 1:52 am Caitlin

IKEA makes me want to buy everything in the store! That’s awful! And IKEA is a SARS-hotbed? OH MY GOD!
on September 21, 2008 at 1:30 pm Mags

I refuse IKEA. I think it might actually be effective for me to set my money on fire, rather than to head to IKEA and brave the crowds to buy something. I mean, the money is gone either way, and while I didn’t get anything in return for it by burning it, at least I didn’t risk being arrested for manslaughter while wrestling another customer over an end table or a lamp.
on September 21, 2008 at 1:41 pm Pookie

I’ve bought three or so pieces of IKEA furniture that I’ve loved. We’ve been using the same IKEA TV stand for five years. And their Flor lamps are the greatest thing ever. That said, I will never step foot in one of their stores ever again. If I can’t order it online, I’m not buying it. Heh.
on September 21, 2008 at 2:15 pm Amy

I like IKEA stores because they have these yummy chocolate hazelnut sandwich cookies that I cannot find anywhere else.
on September 21, 2008 at 2:17 pm Pookie

To be fair, the IKEA that’s nearest to us is notoriously bad. If I mention it to people around here they all agree it’s awful. Actually, I think there’s a newer one that’s reasonably close that’s supposed to be a lot better, but thanks to one too many trips to the Elizabeth, NJ IKEA, I’m never going back.
on September 21, 2008 at 3:51 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I’ve only been to two and they seem fine to me. The one in Houston is supposedly one of the smaller ones, but when I went there I thought it was unbelievably huge. Now that we have one here, I can see that it was pretty small.

Ours is so big, that I barely even look at stuff in the second half of the trip through the store because I’m all tired and cranky by then. I always think I should go against the traffic just to see the stuff at the end of the tour for once. :D
on September 21, 2008 at 3:58 pm Myra

Ours is so big, that I barely even look at stuff in the second half of the trip through the store because I’m all tired and cranky by then. I always think I should go against the traffic just to see the stuff at the end of the tour for once.

We’re the same way. Even after stopping halfway in the cafe, we can’t make it all the way through without losing it.
on September 21, 2008 at 4:07 pm Schnookie

Oooh, the too-big IKEA is the WORST. Who even knows what kind of awesome stuff you’re missing just because the store is too effin’ big to deal with?

(We just ate a bunch of carrots from our garden! They were so good! And there were enough of them that I steamed them and Boomer and I each had a goodly-sized bowl of them! YAY!)
on September 21, 2008 at 7:55 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Mmmm! Steamed carrots!
on September 21, 2008 at 8:34 pm Schnookie

I love steamed carrots. Of course, they’re just a vessel for butter and salt, but still! So tasty!
on September 22, 2008 at 12:06 am Patty (in Dallas)

That’s the beauty of corn on the cob, too!
on September 22, 2008 at 9:43 am Pookie

Happy first day of fall, everyone! There’s hockey on my tv again tonight! WOO!
on September 22, 2008 at 9:45 am Caitlin

Ahh, morning, IPB! How goes it for everyone this bright and cheery Monday?

(Is my sarcasm evident yet? No? :D)
on September 22, 2008 at 9:48 am Schnookie

Good morning, everyone! Happy first day of fall, indeed! Caitlin, it sounds like you’re not getting with the “happy day” program here… What gives?
on September 22, 2008 at 9:54 am Caitlin

Happy first day of fall, indeed! Caitlin, it sounds like you’re not getting with the “happy day” program here… What gives?

You know when you have one of those Monday mornings where NOTHING goes right?

It’s one of those days.

But yay, fall! That means hockey is so close! I’m guessing y’all get pre-season games on TV; we don’t, unfortunately. Grr.
on September 22, 2008 at 10:09 am Pookie

Well, the preseason games we’re getting all are Rangers games. So it’s a blessing and a curse.
on September 22, 2008 at 10:11 am Caitlin

Well, the preseason games we’re getting all are Rangers games. So it’s a blessing and a curse.

Eww, okay! Nasty.

Speaking of nasty, Chris Pronger has a blog. (Insert Pronger/writing joke here.)
on September 22, 2008 at 10:23 am Schnookie

I’m so sorry you’re having a crappy monday, Caitlin! If it’s any help, I saw your pictures of your stitching and garden and baking on your blog, and I think everything looks amazing (whether you like that blue linen or not :P)! I’m now really wishing I had a scone.

(Insert Pronger/writing joke here.)

Heh. Yeah, Chris Pronger’s assistant has a blog, is probably the more accurate description of this blog project. :P

And yeah, we’re taking what we can get this preseason, and celebrating it. But beneath all the “WOO HOO! HOCKEY!”s is an annoyed grumble of, “goddammit, Rangers?!? WHY????”
on September 22, 2008 at 10:30 am Amy

Morning all! I cannot believe that fall is here already.

Speaking of nasty, Chris Pronger has a blog. (Insert Pronger/writing joke here.)

It will be all fun and games until he does something stupid, and then it will never be updated again.

Speaking of player blogs, Crunchy’s latest entry makes me think he’s a 80-year-old guy trapped in a 28-year-old’s body. He’s talking about stocking his pantry (no, not a euphemism) and stretching to avoid aches and pains.
on September 22, 2008 at 10:42 am Meg

Speaking of player blogs, Crunchy’s latest entry makes me think he’s a 80-year-old guy trapped in a 28-year-old’s body.

Ooh, thanks for the heads up, Amy.

In other news, I think I might as well move a bedroll into my cubicle I have so much work at the moment. Which is why I’m taking a momentary hockey mental health break here. :)
on September 22, 2008 at 10:53 am Schnookie

Meg, I’m so sorry you’re so swamped! I think I’m going to be in your shoes later this week, so I’m enjoying the calm before the storm right now. :D

Amy, that’s too funny about Crunchy! I love guys who are crotchety old men before their time. Heh.
on September 22, 2008 at 11:29 am Caitlin

Aww, thanks, Schnookie! I think I’m just feeling overly complainy this morning.

Meg, I hope your day/week gets less busy! No fun. :(
on September 22, 2008 at 11:32 am Pookie

Oof, Meg, I’m so sorry! Caitlin, too! It’s bad mornings all around! Maybe this means we’ll all have awesome afternoons?
on September 22, 2008 at 11:36 am Schnookie

Okay, I have, on rare occasions, been in vaguely stressful situations at work, but I have just been confronted with the worst stress in my entire professional life: I have to select the wines and beers to be served at a VP-level cocktail reception my boss is hosting this Friday. This is awful! The frugal secretary in me is saying, “Just pick the cheapest red wine, white wine, regular and then light beers.” But the epicure in me is saying, “Hey! You’re required to attend this thing. Make sure there’s something there worth drinking!”
on September 22, 2008 at 11:40 am Morgan

Schnookie –

Always, always, always get the expensive stuff on the company’s dime! That’s what companies are for, getting all the good stuff that us regular joes can’t afford, you know like lower bowl seats.
on September 22, 2008 at 11:44 am Schnookie

That’s what companies are for, getting all the good stuff that us regular joes can’t afford, you know like lower bowl seats.

HA! Good point. That said, we have a limited budget, and the CEO recently sent out an edict that they’re cutting another $1 billion in operating expenses. I don’t want them looking at the expense sheet, seeing this cocktail party, and saying, “Well THAT person clearly isn’t a team player!” I mean, I like being employed! :P (I think it would help if I knew how much we had to spend. I’m here telling the catering people that we don’t need any hors d’oeuvres because if people are hungry they can bring stuff from home. Meanwhile, I bet my VP is thinking, “I’m so glad I found a way to spend this $30,000 catering budget!”)
on September 22, 2008 at 11:45 am Caitlin

Maybe this means we’ll all have awesome afternoons?

Jesus, let’s hope!

But the epicure in me is saying, “Hey! You’re required to attend this thing. Make sure there’s something there worth drinking!”

Is there a happy compromise, where you can order a decent wine that’s not too expensive? I’m incredibly ignorant of wine as I’m a devoted liquor drinker, but surely there’s something where taste and economical price meet? Maybe?

(I’d be ripping my hair out over that as well. And also asking the wine merchant for a sampling.)
on September 22, 2008 at 12:01 pm Meg

Is there a happy compromise, where you can order a decent wine that’s not too expensive? I’m incredibly ignorant of wine as I’m a devoted liquor drinker, but surely there’s something where taste and economical price meet? Maybe?

I know nothing about beer, but yes there are good wines that don’t cost much. Schnookie, I would suggest getting decent wines since the super-duper cheap stuff is fairly undrinkable usually.
on September 22, 2008 at 12:02 pm Schnookie

And also asking the wine merchant for a sampling.

Yeah, I’m like, “I think I need to spend today trying EVERYTHING on this wine list!”

I think I’ve found a couple of options on the list now that will be drinkable and cheap, so I’m just going to close my eyes and hit “submit” on my email to Catering. I haven’t been to any of the social functions for my department in the last few years, so I have no idea what people around here like to drink… I hope they like to drink the same stuff I do, because that’s what they’re getting! HA!
on September 22, 2008 at 12:06 pm Pam

I love those pumpkin things. And candy corn.

I have free preseason tickets for the caps game on the 29th if anyone wants them. I also have not free preseason tickets to the other devils home games if anyone wants them!
on September 22, 2008 at 12:12 pm Schnookie

Oooh, I hate that you have to pay for the preseason tickets with your season tickets. Money-grubbing bastards. And as for actually attending the games, while I’d love to watch them on TV, I think I’m busy that night if the only option I have is to drag myself up to The Rawk to see the games in person. Heh.
on September 22, 2008 at 12:15 pm Pam

At least we got one (out of three) game for free. Too bad I’m not going. I don’t like the preseason games anyway. Even though I’m looking forward to seeing the game from my new seats, I still don’t wanna go. I look at the money lost as a “sunk cost”.
on September 22, 2008 at 12:40 pm Pookie

I think I’m busy that night if the only option I have is to drag myself up to The Rawk to see the games in person.

Yeeeeeeah. Especially if the other team in question is the Caps. But thanks for the offer anyway, Pam!
on September 22, 2008 at 12:57 pm andrew

Morning everyone!

WOOOOOO HOOOOO! The teams are set! You guys are in trouble! I tell you what.

How was everyone’s weekend?
on September 22, 2008 at 1:11 pm Amy

How was everyone’s weekend?

Great! I got to see real hockey in person and watched a heck of a football game (not in person) on Sunday. Life is good.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:12 pm Pam

Yea, a Caps vs. Devils preseason game is not the picture of excitement, is it?
on September 22, 2008 at 1:15 pm Schnookie

The teams are set! You guys are in trouble! I tell you what.

Pfft. Please. The Tintin Tattoos are going to be so dominant that the word “TinTats” will become synonymous with “victory”. They’ll be singing of the glory of the TinTats for generations!

I had a lovely weekend, with lots of sitting around in front of the TV, some go-getter preserving of farm and garden veggies for the winter, and some cake. It was a nice way to spend a few days. How was yours, andrew?
on September 22, 2008 at 1:25 pm andrew

Great! I got to see real hockey in person and watched a heck of a football game (not in person) on Sunday.

ACK! So jealous. That’s awesome Amy. I can’t wait for some live hockey. They’re streaming the Sabres game tomorrow night online. I can’t.feaking.wait.

The Tintin Tattoos are going to be so dominant that the word “TinTats” will become synonymous with “victory”.

The TinTats are going to get tattooed. Bad. Tell me something Schnookie, do dogs know how to play the kazoo? I don’t think so! Boom!

It was a nice way to spend a few days. How was yours, andrew?

Certainly sounds like it. Cake is never a bad thing. Mine was good! Screwed around mostly. We went bowling and had drinks with the neighbors on Friday night. I hadn’t been bowling in, like 3 years. So that was cool. Also had a good friend in town, on leave from the Army, so we got to hang out and have some fun. Overall, it was a good one.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:27 pm Schnookie

Tell me something Schnookie, do dogs know how to play the kazoo? I don’t think so! Boom!

Oooh, DAMN! You’re really bringing it, aren’t you andrew? Well, I’ve got two words for you: Paul. Kariya. Yeah, I didn’t think you’d have an answer.

Bowling, drinking, hanging with friends on Army leave — sounds like a great weekend, indeed! Although yeah, Amy’s got us all beat with the “live hockey in person” thing.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:29 pm andrew

Well, I’ve got two words for you: Paul. Kariya. Yeah, I didn’t think you’d have an answer.

Ooooh, bringing out the big guns I see…

Well, let me tell you something, I’ve got the devastating combo of Gionta and Antropov at RW. That’s the stuff nightmares are made of. Your nightmares? Maybe. My nightmares? Probably.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:29 pm Pookie

andrew, I saw the Kazoo was in your line-up — did you rank him highly to ensure you’d get him?
on September 22, 2008 at 1:32 pm Caitlin

They’ll be singing of the glory of the TinTats for generations!

Yeah, people will be saying for generations, “Dude, your fantasy hockey team could be worse. At least you’re not the Meat Pies.” Even Malkin is like, “Lady…not cool.” Except in Russian.

And andrew, I’ll push that trade through tonight – Yahoo Fantasy is being weird today for me.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:40 pm Schnookie

That’s the stuff nightmares are made of. Your nightmares? Maybe. My nightmares? Probably.

Half of that combination has been the stuff of my nightmares for the last five years.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:41 pm andrew

andrew, I saw the Kazoo was in your line-up — did you rank him highly to ensure you’d get him?

I saw that too! And to my knowledge, no. I don’t think I ranked him extra high. As much as I love ole’ Kazoo, he’s getting a little long in the tooth. But if I’ve got him, I’m definitely cool with it. Y’know?

And andrew, I’ll push that trade through tonight – Yahoo Fantasy is being weird today for me.

You like that one, Caitlin? Cool! I thought it was a good trade offer. But out of fairness I will let you know that I also offered up a trade with alix, so whomever comes through first is who I’m trading with! I know, I’m a ruthless bitch. My wife reminds me all the time.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:44 pm andrew

Half of that combination has been the stuff of my nightmares for the last five years.

I honestly can’t figure out why Yahoo keeps ranking him as high as they do. I think they’re pining for the glory days of 2005-2006. He sure as hell hasn’t been too convincing since then.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:46 pm Pookie

Speaking of trades, where’s grrrreg? Why haven’t you agreed to my awesome “JMFJ for Brent Burns” trade?! :P
on September 22, 2008 at 1:46 pm Schnookie

I guess that “48″ in his goal total column, no matter how long ago, has a lot of weight. Gah. Maybe a real-life GM will be equally tempted by him this season. I mean, he’s in prime “rental” shape, what with this being his contract year…
on September 22, 2008 at 1:47 pm Caitlin

But out of fairness I will let you know that I also offered up a trade with alix, so whomever comes through first is who I’m trading with! I know, I’m a ruthless bitch. My wife reminds me all the time.

Ah, okay. Well, we shall see, then! Damn you Tim Thomas and your bear-hunting ways!

I just need a goal tender. And someone to replace Ryan Whitney. Oh yeah, and someone to replace Justin Williams. Who the fuck is Justin Williams anyways? And Joe Corvo? The hell?
on September 22, 2008 at 1:49 pm andrew

Why haven’t you agreed to my awesome “JMFJ for Brent Burns” trade?!

Speaking of Brent Burns…well…er…Minnesota anyways, did you guys see Torrey Mitchell broke his leg in practice? Out for 2 months! Gah! I’m so pissed. I freaking love that kid.

I mean, he’s in prime “rental” shape, what with this being his contract year…

That’s the only reason I’m holding onto him. I’m a big believer in contract year surges. But I’m sure I’m preaching to the choir on that one.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:51 pm andrew

Oh yeah, and someone to replace Justin Williams. Who the fuck is Justin Williams anyways? And Joe Corvo? The hell?

Hahaha…dude you sound just like everyone who played last year. Now we’re all old pros. Last year it was like, “Who’s this Kovalchuk character? His name sounds stupid!”
on September 22, 2008 at 1:56 pm Schnookie

Last year it was like, “Who’s this Kovalchuk character? His name sounds stupid!”

:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Caitlin, Justin Williams is one of the reasons I like the Hurricanes. He’s all foxy and underrated and everything. And now he’s apparently prone to crippling, season-obliterating injuries. I guess I shouldn’t have gotten too attached.

That’s the only reason I’m holding onto him. I’m a big believer in contract year surges.

I’m also a big believer in contract year surges, but I don’t have a lot of faith in Gio’s abilities to deliver one. But, uh… good luck with that! :P
on September 22, 2008 at 1:58 pm Pookie

Who the fuck is Justin Williams anyways?

He rocks! He was out pretty much all of last season, so his stats are probably all wonky. He’s an above-average player which for my Yahoo team is all I ask for. And, as GM alix would approve of, he’s totally foxy.

But I’m sure I’m preaching to the choir on that one.

Hell yeah! But, it would be just like Gio to ruin my faith in contract years.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:58 pm alix

Oooooh a trade, huh, Andrew? Are you going to give me Vinny for Petr Sykora’s chinchilla?

I’m pommerdoodling! They’re streaming the Canucks pre season game tonight online! I haven’t watched my team play in like 5 months! And I haven’t seen them play well in about 7.
on September 22, 2008 at 1:58 pm Patty (in Dallas)

That’s the stuff nightmares are made of. Your nightmares? Maybe. My nightmares? Probably.

:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Sorry about Mitchell, andrew! RudyKelly was upset about it, too, and he’s not even a Sharks fan.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:00 pm alix

He is foxy!(Justin Williams) Yumm.

And I discovered David Booth is kind of foxy this weekend. So that’s good.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:00 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I had to drop Justin Williams, too. I don’t know him that well, but I had heard of him, so I was disappointed that he was crippled.

I haven’t watched my team play in like 5 months! And I haven’t seen them play well in about 7.

:^:::::::::::::::::: Poor alix! I’m sure this year will be different!
on September 22, 2008 at 2:02 pm Patty (in Dallas)

All-a y’all WC drafters, if you’re looking for foxy prospects that might make their NHL team, keep an eye out for Raymond Sawada and James Neal on the Stars. They seem foxy. And also might make the team.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:03 pm andrew

I like Justin Williams a lot too. I used to actually watch the occasional Flyers game because of that guy. Can you belive that?

Oooooh a trade, huh, Andrew? Are you going to give me Vinny for Petr Sykora’s chinchilla?

Dude, Brian freaking Gionta is my best RW. I need help!

Sorry about Mitchell, andrew! RudyKelly was upset about it, too, and he’s not even a Sharks fan.

I know! What’s not to love though. The kid is pretty much the awesomest. Blazing speed…I tells ya, if his hands ever catch up with his feet, he’s gonna be trouble.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:08 pm alix

Apparently Cody Hodgson our 1st overall prospect is totally playing himself on to the team. He’s been absolutely rocking on a line with Demitra and Big Bear. I knew he was special when I saw him drafted in Ottawa :)

Poor Mitchell. That’s gotta be rough before the season even starts.

Andrew, Prospal kind of looks like a hot, dopey stoner. And I didn’t really like Petr Sykora anyways. I’ll think about it.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:12 pm Mags

All those poor pre-season injured players. That has to really really suck.

I got Chris Pronger. Again. I’m beginning to think he may be my cross to bear.

Apparently Cody Hodgson our 1st overall prospect is totally playing himself on to the team. He’s been absolutely rocking on a line with Demitra and Big Bear.

Yay for Cody Hodgson! You go, kid!
on September 22, 2008 at 2:22 pm Patty (in Dallas)

So sorry, Mags!
on September 22, 2008 at 2:25 pm Amy

All those poor pre-season injured players. That has to really really suck.

I think Thomas Vanek wins the “stupidest injury of the preseason” award. He pinched a nerve in his knee during his physical.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:30 pm Meg

Leave it to Vanek to be a stupidhead.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:31 pm Schnookie

I think Thomas Vanek wins the “stupidest injury of the preseason” award. He pinched a nerve in his knee during his physical.

Sheesh! That sounds like something that would happen to Jason Arnott! Only Arnott would get concussed from it, but that’s another story.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:31 pm Caitlin

He pinched a nerve in his knee during his physical.

WHAAAAAA? How is that possible?!?

I got Chris Pronger. Again. I’m beginning to think he may be my cross to bear.

I’m so, so sorry, Mags. :( I got Briere & Drury, if that’s any comfort. So, they apparently, are my crosses to bear. Along with Toskala, WTF.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:35 pm Meg

I think I’m happy about all my players right now. Of course, I’m totally mercenary when it comes to this stuff so I was delighted to learn that Pronger was on my fantasy team even if I would never want him on the Sabres. Still, I’m thinking the happiness has a lot to do with relative unfamiliarity.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:39 pm Amy

WHAAAAAA? How is that possible?!?

No one has any idea. Maybe Timmy passed on the freak injury torch.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:41 pm Mags

I think Thomas Vanek wins the “stupidest injury of the preseason” award. He pinched a nerve in his knee during his physical.

O. Wow. Colour me impressed.

I got Briere & Drury, if that’s any comfort.

I expressed my condolences over twitter and I’ll say it again. I’m sorry your team is so bitchy. And not in a good bitch way.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:45 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Wow. Can Vanek sue the person giving him the physical?
on September 22, 2008 at 2:47 pm Katebits

I have a question for you WC peeps. Garon is kind of on the way out in Edmonton, isn’t he? I have three goalies Turco, Garon, and Josh Harding in Minnesota. I’m trying to decide if I need to get an additional starter and drop one of those two other “back-up” type dudes. If I remember correctly, last year I got kind of burned because my only functional, play every game, type goalie was Marty Brodeur.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:48 pm Katebits

Wow. Can Vanek sue the person giving him the physical?

Can the CITY OF BUFFALO sue that doctor?! :P
on September 22, 2008 at 2:49 pm Katebits

The other problem the F-Bits had last year was the persistent presence of Olie Kolzig. Heh.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:54 pm alix

Katebits, actually Garon took over for Roloson last year, and should get the majority of the games this season. He looked great in the shootout last season, but he hasn’t put two awesome seasons together as a starter.

I would probably drop Harding.
on September 22, 2008 at 2:55 pm Katebits

Oooh! Garon is the NEW guy? Okay, that does change things. Heh. I don’t know shit from shinola in the West. Thanks alix!
on September 22, 2008 at 3:10 pm alix

I don’t know shit from shinola in the West. Thanks alix!

HEE! No problem!
on September 22, 2008 at 3:11 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Speaking of shit and shinola, I have Cam Ward and I know a lot of EC-ers think he’s terrible, but I should keep him, right? Maybe he’s about to go crazy?
on September 22, 2008 at 3:14 pm Schnookie

Who else is available, Patty?
on September 22, 2008 at 3:15 pm andrew

Late to the party, but I swear if I see Vanek I’m gonna nutpunch him so hard. What a punk! I hope his knee doesn’t keep him out too much.

I would probably drop Harding.

For sure, Harding won’t get a ton of starts unless Backstrom effs up. Garon, however, has all but taken Roloson’s starting position.

Speaking of shit and shinola, I have Cam Ward and I know a lot of EC-ers think he’s terrible, but I should keep him, right?

Hey man, he still won, like 30+ games last year. Even if he does kinda suck, there’s not too many goalies on the FA list who have a shot at that many wins (let alone starts).
on September 22, 2008 at 3:17 pm Schnookie

Hey man, he still won, like 30+ games last year. Even if he does kinda suck, there’s not too many goalies on the FA list who have a shot at that many wins (let alone starts).

I was going to say that, but I was waiting to see who else was available. I think Ward’s poop, but that’s just from a “would I take him instead of Marty?” standpoint. :D
on September 22, 2008 at 3:27 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Yeah, there’s nobody left that I’ve ever heard of. And I mean EVER heard of.
on September 22, 2008 at 3:29 pm andrew

Yeah, there’s nobody left that I’ve ever heard of. And I mean EVER heard of.

You can always try and trade him. Just make sure you offer him up to someone who’s not a huge Brodeur fan.
on September 22, 2008 at 3:32 pm Schnookie

Yeah, there’s nobody left that I’ve ever heard of. And I mean EVER heard of.

Well he’s certainly better than guys you’ve never, ever heard of! (Seriously, though, he’s a full-time starter on a not-bad team. I think he’s pretty solid for fantasy purposes.)
on September 22, 2008 at 3:33 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I’ll probably keep him. I hate trading. And even add/drop-ping.

I always assume I’ll regret any roster moves.
on September 22, 2008 at 3:34 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Thanks for the EC perspective! If you need any WC help, let me know.

(But if you’re in the SuperLeague, I wouldn’t trust me if I were you.)
on September 22, 2008 at 3:41 pm andrew

I’ll probably keep him. I hate trading. And even add/drop-ping.

Yeah, I remember that from last year. Trying to get a trade out of you is not an easy thing.

So how was the vacation, Patty? You guys have a good time?
on September 22, 2008 at 3:55 pm Pookie

(But if you’re in the SuperLeague, I wouldn’t trust me if I were you.)

In that case, keep Ward and drop all your other players. That’s how the EC works, ya know.
on September 22, 2008 at 4:09 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Pookie, don’t start telling me that I should drop Sid. :D

Trying to get a trade out of you is not an easy thing.

Are you still mad about that? :P Just kidding. I’ll try to be more open to trades, but don’t count on it.

And my vacation was pretty cool. Thanks for asking. It wasn’t cold though, because that whole area was unseasonably warm. I just can’t escape it!
on September 22, 2008 at 4:21 pm Pookie

Patty, the “s” in “Sid” stands for “sucky”. Ditch him. Just between you and me, I hear that Justin Williams is going to have a bang up first half.
on September 22, 2008 at 4:33 pm alix

You don’t wanna give me Nazzy, eh, Andrew?
on September 22, 2008 at 4:33 pm alix

For Petr Sykora of course.
on September 22, 2008 at 4:54 pm andrew

It wasn’t cold though, because that whole area was unseasonably warm. I just can’t escape it!

What a drag! Don’t you hate that? The same thgin happened to us down in San Diego! Glad to hear that you had a good time though.

You don’t wanna give me Nazzy, eh, Andrew?

For Petr Sykora of course.

Hmmmm….maybe. Let me look over my roster.
on September 22, 2008 at 4:57 pm alix

Hmmmm….maybe. Let me look over my roster.

I’ll throw in some draft picks. And hookers :P
on September 22, 2008 at 4:58 pm andrew

I’ll throw in some draft picks. And hookers :P

Alright! We got a deal! But forget the draft picks. And Sykora. And Naslund.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:02 pm andrew

Alrighty alix, I just sent something over to ya. Let me know what you think.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:10 pm alix

Alright! We got a deal! But forget the draft picks. And Sykora. And Naslund.

Hee hee!

Alrighty alix, I just sent something over to ya. Let me know what you think.

Done! Good doing business with you. :D

My team is so foxy now!
on September 22, 2008 at 5:23 pm andrew

Done! Good doing business with you. :D

I hope Nazzy hooks you up with a foxy and productive season.

Hey I’ve got a question that you guys may be able to help me with. So here’s the thing, Tracie’s b-day is coming up and I’m in need of a good online shoe store. She bought these slip ons when we were in Dublin and has practically worn them out. I’d like to find something to replace them, but I’m having trouble. No one seems to carry what I’m looking for. They’re kinda like Pumas. Y’know, slim design, thin sole, soccer-looking, but they’re slip ons. I guess it must not be a popular style in the US. Any recommendations?
on September 22, 2008 at 5:36 pm Caitlin

andrew, could you be talking about any of these:

http://www.zappos.com/n/es/d/722653411/page/1.html

The only other shoe I can think of that fits that description is the Adidas Samba, but those lace up.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:45 pm andrew

andrew, could you be talking about any of these:

Some of those are pretty close. Thanks Caitlin. So far this is the closest thing I’ve been able to find (as far as the style goes):

http://www.shoebuy.com/cudas-jig/184982/414241
on September 22, 2008 at 5:47 pm Caitlin

Uh, can you go home tonight and creepily dig in Tracie’s shoes to at least figure out what brand they are?! :D That, I think, would help you a lot.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:51 pm andrew

Uh, can you go home tonight and creepily dig in Tracie’s shoes…

Good idea! I was gonna do that anyway!

Just kidding, but seriously, maybe I should see what brand they are. This search is getting me nowhere.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:54 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Check shoemall.com, too. (I was going to suggest zappos, too.)

Also, Amazon.com has a ton of shoes — they just link to whoever is really selling it.
on September 22, 2008 at 5:59 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Oh, shoot. Senor Spam got me, I think.
on September 22, 2008 at 6:05 pm andrew

Also, Amazon.com has a ton of shoes — they just link to whoever is really selling it.

Cool, thanks guys.
on September 22, 2008 at 6:07 pm alix

I was just going to suggest Zappos. Good work ladies.

Dear God. Hordichuk is skating on the top line with Hank Sedin. AV has gone totally nuts. I mean, I know it’s pre season. But that is just never a good idea.
on September 22, 2008 at 6:29 pm andrew

Hordichuk is skating on the top line with Hank Sedin.

Yikes. That is not cool.

He neesd to get Mason Raymond up there! (I drafted him in my keeper league, I’m totally pulling for him)
on September 22, 2008 at 6:31 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I thought you liked Hordichuk, alix! Or was that just his looks? :D
on September 22, 2008 at 6:37 pm alix

Hee! Oh I ADORE Hordichuk, Patty! He’s writing a blog on the Canucks website, and he’s hilarious! I can’t wait to watch him beat people up. But skating with Hank? Not so much.

Mason Raymond was supposedly flying in training camp, Andrew. I think he’ll have quite a good year. If AV doesn’t leave him to die on the 4th line.
on September 22, 2008 at 6:51 pm andrew

Mason Raymond was supposedly flying in training camp, Andrew. I think he’ll have quite a good year. If AV doesn’t leave him to die on the 4th line.

Hearing things like that make me so glad the Sharks fired Ron Wilson. He did the same stupid shit. Mike Grier or Marcel Goc up on the first line with Thornton…things like that. I hope AV gets his shit squared away sooner rather than later.
on September 22, 2008 at 6:57 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Oh, good. Because I thought he was adorable, too. :D
on September 22, 2008 at 7:03 pm alix

Hearing things like that make me so glad the Sharks fired Ron Wilson. He did the same stupid shit. Mike Grier or Marcel Goc up on the first line with Thornton…things like that.

Yup! It drives you batty!

I hope AV gets his shit squared away sooner rather than later.

Here’s hoping!

Oh, good. Because I thought he was adorable, too. :D

Hee! He’s totes adorable. Don’t tell Matty, but I’m crushing on him big time.
on September 22, 2008 at 7:09 pm Pookie

I’m watching hockey! I’m watching hockey! EEEE!!!

Eek! It’s the Rangers! My eyes! My eyes! ARGH!!!

But… It’s hockey! It’s hockey!
on September 22, 2008 at 8:19 pm Patty (in Dallas)

I’m watching hockey! I’m watching hockey! EEEE!!!

Eek! It’s the Rangers! My eyes! My eyes! ARGH!!!

:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Guesswhatguesswhatguesswhatguesswhat!

My first Center Ice installment appeared on my DirecTV bill! Hockey is HERE!!!
on September 22, 2008 at 8:30 pm Pookie

I said that earlier about my DirecTV bill! Jinx!
on September 22, 2008 at 8:37 pm Schnookie

Patty, I like that you left this comment about 20 minutes ago, and it wasn’t until I noticed your status in gmail just now that I noticed this. I guess I haven’t been hitting F5 fast enough over here. Heh.
on September 22, 2008 at 8:39 pm Patty (in Dallas)

What, Pookie? You already said it? Woopsie!

Schnookie, I don’t think it was that long ago. :D
on September 22, 2008 at 8:41 pm Schnookie

Huh? Did you say something, Patty? Because I don’t really ever listen to anything anyone says around here. :P
on September 22, 2008 at 8:45 pm Patty (in Dallas)

Wanh wanh wanh wanh! (in style of Charlie Brown’s teacher)