Yih!

So this is New Years. And what have we done? Or something similar. Anyways, as promised, here is my take on 2009:

Movie of the year: a lot of good options here, but I have to go with 'Zombieland' over 'The Hangover' and 'Inglourious Basterds'. It's just such a great movie, I haven't had as much fun in the theatres since i saw 'Borat' for the first time. Honorable mention goes to 'Watchmen' and 'Public Enemies'.

Band of the year: easier than doing Record. It came down to Kings of Leon, Pearl Jam or Them Crooked Vultures for me, and I had to side with the latter as their self-titled debut is simply amazing. Good music from good musicians.

Comeback of the year: the jury's own favorite, mr. Tom 'Tommy B' Brady of the New England Patriots.

Party of the year: anything involving the brothers Rein this year, from rookie parties and Nordic Championships to soccer matches in Oslo and hockey games in New York. Gotta love it.

Gig of the year: by payment and luxuries, it would have to be either Springsteen or Coldplay. By sheer fun it would be AC/DC and by extreme weather conditions it would be Madonna.

Lesson learned: having the cops break up my party.

Drink of the year: whisky. Straight.

Best inside joke: rainbows. Research methods.

Best read: Simmons' column on ESPN.com. Always entertaining and opinionated.

Best party place: have to give props to my man Christian W for this one, the pirate party was pretty sweet.

Best eat: mom's home-cooking. Nothing like it.

If there is something i forgot, please let me know, but do so in a timely manner (probably before the first week of January passes). For now, Happy New year!

End of the year

Is nigh, indeed. Final grades are up, and I'm fucking pissed I only got a C in Judicial Process. My efforts warranted at least a C+ or B-. But no time to cry about missed opportunities, I'm off to the races for the night. Wish me luck, and we will try and get you some 'Best of the Year' tomorrow or Thursday. Good night!

Whew

To be perfectly honest, I'm really glad the Colts lost today, just because I actually think their team is playing well enough right now to win the Super Bowl. There. I said it.

Week 16 picks

Almost there! Just 2 more weeks of regular season football, and then we're off to the playoffs. Playoffs?!

Kansas City
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati -13.5

Oakland
@ Cleveland
Pick: Cleveland -3.0

Buffalo
@ Atlanta
Pick: Atlanta -9.0

Houston
@ Miami
Pick: Houston +3.0

Seattle
@ Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -14.0

Tampa Bay
@ New Orleans
Pick: New Orleans -14.0

Baltimore
@ Pittsburgh
Pick: Pittsburgh -3.0

Carolina
@ New York
Pick: New York -7.5

St. Louis
@ Arizona
Pick: Arizona -14.0

Detroit
@ San Francisco
Pick: San Francisco -13.5

Denver
@ Philadelphia
Pick: Philadelphia -7.0

New York
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Indianapolis -4.0

Dallas
@ Washington
Pick: Dallas -6.5

Minnesota
@ Chicago
Pick: Minnesota -7.0

Last week: 5-7-1

Season: 106-100-3

Christmas football?

It's the Chargers versus the Titans, only on NFL Network!

San Diego
@ Tennessee
Pick: San Diego +3.0

Christmas table

Had a great time last night, thank you to each and everyone that made our Christmas Party a blast. I just wished we beat up on that guy. Sorry for loosing my cool there at the end of the night.

I'm just about finishing my last gift wrapping, and then I'm hitting the hay within half an hour. From everyone here at Zip-City, to all of you: Merry Christmas!

Some stuff

Had a pleasant flight from Boston to Amsterdam on Saturday morning. Food was not that great, but I got to watch both Inglourious Basterds, an episode of Family Guy and the G.I. Joe movie. Not bad for an American airline.

It's good to be back, I'll tell you that much!

My record from last week, as well as seasonal (not counting week 15):

Last week: 9-6

Season: 101-93-2

Week 15 picks

I know I missed the first two games. I would have taken Indy at -3.0 or less, and I would have taken the Saints at -6.5 or less.

Kansas -2.0

Miami +4.5

New York -7.0

Houston -14.0

Arizona -14.0

San Diego -7.0

Oakland +14.0

Pittsburgh -1.0

Philadelphia -9.0

Baltimore -11.0

Seattle -6.5

Minnesota -9.0

New York -3.0

I'll post my record later, got to go now!

Pigs on the wing (part 1)

It's 12.23 AM local time here in Willimantic, and the library will be open for another hour and 37 minutes. Yup, that's right, it's finals week! I just finished my research paper (I think) and I'm currently working on my Presidency exam. When that is done it's on to my VectorWorks drawing and at some time between 3 and 4 AM I can finally go to bed. Good thing is, everything is due tomorrow, so after 7 PM I can do whatever I want! Vacation baby, gotta fuckin' love it!

Looking forward to seeing you soon mom :)

In football news, I feel ashamed about taking the Cards last night after that gawd awful performance against the Niners. Can you spell attrocious?

Anyhoo, this week the NFL Network starts its Saturday Night Football, so you probably will receive 2 picks on Thursday, depending on my mood and soberness.

Until next time, salut!

Have you noticed

All the people in McDonald'c commercials (except the ones for McD coffee) are minorities, mostly black. Same with Wal-Mart. Why do you think this is?

Top 5 cover corner

But a shitty tackler. Do I miss having Asante Samuel in the Patriots backfield? Of course I do. But I miss Rodney more.

Speaking of football, now is the time to leave your thoughts on who you think will go to the playoffs. Hint: Indy is already in.

Week 14 picks

We are on the home stretch of the regular season, only 3 more weeks left after this weekend. AFC is shaping up to be exciting: Indy is already in and are playing for home-field. Cincy looks to have the North, San Diego is in charge (get it?) of the West and Jacksonville and Denver have the inside track for Wild Cards. The East however, is very crowded these days: New England is sitting at 7-5, but Miami and New York are both 6-6 and looking to fight for both the division and one of the Wild Cards.

Pittsburgh has been laying bricks all over this season, so I would be surprised if they manage a Wild Card. If they do though, they will be scary come January.

In the NFC, shit is less complicated. Arizona SHOULD win the west easily, unless they fuck up against San Fran on Monday. New Orleans and Minny are on pace for 1-2 seeds in the conference, and Green Bay looks to be locking up the first Wild Card slot. As with the AFC, the East is also the tight one in the NFC. Dallas sits atop at 8-4, but Philly is close with the same record, and the G-Men following tightly at 7-5. I think Philadelphia will either win the division or get a Wild Card. Dallas could get in, but they have collapsed the last few Decembers, and they lost a crucial game against New York last week. My hunch says that Dallas will get in, New York won't.

Now, on to the picks, and as always, no play on the Pats game...

Miami
@ Jacksonville
Pick: Miami +2.5

New York
@ Tampa Bay
Pick: New York -3.0

Seattle
@ Houston
Pick: Houston -7.0

Detroit
@ Baltimore
Pick: Detroit +13.5

Cincinnati
@ Minnesota
Pick: Minnesota -6.5

Green Bay
@ Chicago
Pick: Green Bay -3.5

Denver
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Denver +7.0

Buffalo
@ Kansas City
Pick: Kansas City -1.0

New Orleans
@ Atlanta
Pick: New Orleans -10.5

Washington
@ Oakland
Pick: Washington -1.0

St. Louis
@ Tennessee
Pick: Tennessee -13.5

San Diego
@ Dallas
Pick: San Diego +3.0

Philadelphia
@ New York
Pick: New York +1.0

Arizona
@ San Francisco
Pick: Arizona -3.5

Last week: 5-10

Season: 92-87-2

Last day of classes

You know what that means! Thought you might like the Thursday night pick first though:

Pittsburgh
@ Cleveland
Pick: Cleveland +10.0

Reason for not liking America #14

Conservapedia? Are you fucking kidding me? "A conservative is a man with two perfectly good legs who, however, has never learned how to walk forward." - Franklin Delanor Roosevelt

Week 13 picks

Not last night, but on time none the less.

Denver
@ Kansas City
Pick: Kansas City +6.0

Tennessee
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Tennessee +6.5

Detroit
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati -13.0

St. Louis
@ Chicago
Pick: St. Louis +9.5

Philadelphia
@ Atlanta
Pick: Philadelphia -5.5

New Orleans
@ Washington
Pick: Washington +9.5

Tampa Bay
@ Carolina
Pick: Tampa Bay +5.0

Houston
@ Jacksonville
Pick: Houston -1.0

Oakland
@ Pittsburgh
Pick: Pittsburgh -14.5

San Diego
@ Cleveland
Pick: San Diego -13.0

San Francisco
@ Seattle
Pick: San Francisco +1.0

Dallas
@ New York
Pick: Dallas -1.5

Minnesota
@ Arizona
Pick: Minnesota -3.0

Baltimore
@ Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -3.0

Last week: 5-10

Season: 87-77-2

Connecticut's finest!

Four representatives of Connecticut law enforcement paid a little visit to my party last night. They were very polite and seemed more interested in making sure no one made any trouble than arresting people, which is good. I'm just pissed at the 20-something people standing outside on the sidewalk drinking and being loud. Of course someone will call the cops. I guess my mom and dad are appreciative of this happening in my house and not in theirs.

I will try and deliver some NFL-picks later tonight, and I might actually have to go back on my prediction of the Vikings not winning the Super Bowl...they are the second best team in the NFL right now.

Flaggy

Last game last night, we got drunk and lost. But it's always fun when someone who's 3 inches taller than you is afraid to cover you on slants because he thinks I might run him over. Good times.

Live!

Mark Sanchez fucking sucks. Wow.

Thursday blah blah blah

New York
@ Buffalo
Game is being played in Toronto, actually.
Pick: New York -3.0

Rest in peace

I've been reading Regine's blog for the past months, she passed away not even 5 hours ago. Rest in peace Regine...

People! People!

In a good mood today, don't know why. What I do know is that I'm giddy with excitement for tonights game against the Saints! Wooooooooooo!

Also, check out todays comic at XKCD. Funny for anyone who has ever had physics of some sort.

Week 12 picks

I know these are posted late due to technical difficulties. Just take my word for it.

Miami -3.0

St. Louis +4.0

Washington +9.0

Atlanta -11.5

Houston +3.5

Cincinnati -13.5

New York -3.0

Kansas City +14.0

Jacksonville +3.5

Minnesota -10.0

Tennessee -2.0

Baltimore -6.5

Last week: 9-6

Season: 82-67-2

Bird

Happy Thanksgiving!

Oh by the way

I think the two regular readers I have should be better at leaving at least on comment a week, if it's on the picks, if it's on something else, I really don't care. Feedback people, come on!

Finally!

Okay, so I know it's long overdue, but here you go: memories from Gillette Stadium where I witnessed the New England Patriots take on the Dolphins of Miami!

Woke up at 6am Sunday morning, ready to roll with Matt, Jeff, Tom and my cousin. Stopped for breakfast at Denny's where we met up with two of Tom's friends. Haven't been on the road for even 30 minutes, and our party is already up to 6. Good start.

Arrive at lot P 11, park and locate the whereabouts of Shep and Tony. Shep actually lives in Willi. Tony, whom we have never met before, is the tailgating master. His words were "bring your own drinks, your own chair, and $15 for the food, we're all set!" Done and done. I crack a Sam, we set up the tables for some chips and a light poker game, followed by the biggest steak I have ever seen consumed at a private establishment. Several cows had to die to feed us that day, I am sure.

And not just the meat! For sides, we had fried onions and mushrooms, baked potato with cheese and sour cream and steak sauce. It was unbelievable!

At noon I wander off to the Pro-Shop to get my hands on one of the famed Belichick-hoodies. Those garments are so big, I had to settle for a size Small.

We had great seats on the 200-level, right on the end zone on Miami's sideline. Game was competetive and entertaining, got to see some nice plays on our side and in our end zone. Needless to repeat, the Patriots won after regulation expired. Back to the tailgate!

We come back to our area, Tony's got the TV and the chips ready. We crank up the New Orleans-Carolina game and continue our card game. Tony, on the other hand, he's back to the grill for some cheeseburgers and hot dogs. Amazingly awesome way to finish of the evening. We leave around 6-6.30 and get back to WeHa at about 9pm. Strawdinary day! Just the way days of pigskin should unfold.

Now, for my next trick, I will give you the Thanksgiving day picks:

Green Bay
@ Detroit
Pick: Green Bay -11.5

Oakland
@ Dallas
Pick: Oakland +13.5

New York
@ Denver
Pick: New York -7.0

Week 11 picks

Picks brought to you by New York City.

Washington +11.0

San Francisco +6.5

Detroit -3.5

New Orleans -11.0

Pittsburgh -10.0

Indianapolis -1.5

Minnesota -10.5

Atlanta +7.0

Jacksonville -8.5

Arizona -9.5

Cincinnati -9.5

San Diego -4.0

Philadelphia -3.0

Tennessee +4.5

Last week: 8-6

Season: 73-61-2

Thursday Night Football

Quick pick today in between work and classes.

Miami
@ Carolina
Pick: Carolina -3.0

Shit

After last week's awesomeness at Gillette, I guess we were due for a let down. Fuck. Worst thing is, we played so good in all three phases, and Bill has been so steady this season, making good decisions every game. And they throw it right at the sticks on a 4th and 2? Doesn't make sense. I'm having flashbacks to AFC Championship game with Troy Brown running the wrong way on a 3rd and 5. Shit.

Week 10 picks

This is going to be quick, I'm running late.

New Orleans -14.5

Jacksonville +6.0

Atlanta -1.5

Tennessee -7.5

Minnesota -15.5

Cincinnati +7.0

Miami -10.0

Denver -3.5

Kansas City +2.0

Arizona -7.5

Dallas -3.0

San Diego -1.0

Baltimore -11.0

Bye: Houston, New York

Last week: 5-7

Season: 65-55-2

Anniversary!

That's right folks, post number 200! And what a post it is! We have the Thursday night matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and the Chicago Bears!!!

(I am just as non-excited as you are)

Chicago
@ San Francisco
Pick: Chicago +3.0

Report from the Gillette and rest of the pick tomorrow!

Guy Fawkes

Remember, remember, the fifth of November. For all of us who have seen (and remembers (no pun intended)) V for Vendetta, or those who paid attention in history, today is Guy Fawkes day, or night. Who is Guy Fawkes, you might ask? Wikipedia is your friend: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guy_fawkes

Late or early, depends on who (where) you are

I've got my Pandora on, Floyd at the moment. 12 YO Chivas, straight, in a glass and I'm wearing woollen socks ot keep my toes warm. Just tipped a thousand words on my research paper, more specifically my lit review. I want to bang out 5-600 more before I go to bed, but I'm having a hard time finding enough good articles to put in, so we'll see where I go from here.

Fuck the Yankees.

Disclaimer

Btw, by picking early there might be some errors due too injuries or late scratches. Just telling.

Week 9 picks

Hooray, we're getting early picks! Can't tell you why, I should be writing paper upon paper right now, and I'm kinda hungry. Oh well, I digress.

Kansas City
@ Jacksonville
Pick: Jacksonville -6.5

Baltimore
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Baltimore -3.0

Green Bay
@ Tampa Bay
Pick: Green Bay -10.5

Arizona
@ Chicago
Pick: Arizona +3.0

Washington
@ Atlanta
Pick: Atlanta -10.0

Houston
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Houston +9.0

Carolina
@ New Orleans
Pick: New Orleans -13.5

Detroit
@ Seattle
Pick: Detroit +10.0

Tennessee
@ San Francisco
Pick: San Francisco -4.0

San Diego
@ New York
Pick: San Diego +4.5

Dallas
@ Philadelphia
Pick: Philadelphia -3.0

Pittsburgh
@ Denver
Pick: Pittsburgh -3.0

Bye: Buffalo, Cleveland, Minnesota, New York, Oakland, St. Louis

Last week: 6-7

Season: 60-48-2

Catch-up

We won our first game of the season tonight, 20-12. Our roster counted 10, theirs counted 6, we played the entire game with 7 men on the field. We really stink.

Catching up on some homework from the weekend here, I'll probably be up for another hour or so, trying to get this type down. If work or school is boring, hit me up, I'm dying to procrastinate here.

Week 8 picks

So I failed miserably on both of my DFL-picks. Serves me right. Anyhoo, here are my all hallows eve picks for the NFL:

Denver
@ Baltimore
Pick: Denver +3.5

Houston
@ Buffalo
Pick: Houston -3.0

Cleveland
@ Chicago
Pick: Chicago -13.0

Miami
@ New York
Pick: Miami +3.5

San Francisco
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Indianapolis -12.5

St. Louis
@ Detroit
Pick: Detroit -3.5

Seattle
@ Dallas
Pick: Dallas -9.5
(agree with Simmons here though, do not feel safe taking that many points from the Cowboys)

New York
@ Philadelphia
Pick: New York -1.0

Jacksonville
@ Tennessee
Pick: Jacksonville +3.0

Oakland
@San Diego
Pick: San Diego -16.5

Minnesota
@ Green Bay
Pick: Minnesota +3.0

Carolina
@ Arizona
Pick: Arizona -10.0

Atlanta
@ New Orleans
Pick: Atlanta +10.0

Bye: Cincinnati, Kansas City, New England, Pittsburgh, Tampa Bay, Washington

Last week: 7-4-1

Season: 54-41-2

DFL picks

As we all know, DFL-bowl is being played tomorrow, where my beloved Lions take on the mighty Titans! Also, a loser-brackett game between the Ravens and the Moccasins. Games are followed by a bash at Rick's Cafe.

In honor of this festive day of awesomeness, I present to you picks, DFL-style:

Moccasins
@ Ravens
Ravens won their first game ever this season, by beating the aforementioned Moccasins in a close game. Moccasins then preceeded to lose against the Lions. Should be a hard-fought, brusing game in which the line-play of both teams play a huge factor in deciding the winner (I haven't seen you guys play, so I'm just making this shit up).
Pick: Moccasins +3.0

Titans
@ Lions
People who have been following this league since its inagural season know what the Lions are capable of, even without their most dangerous player on the field (that would be me), and having swept the competition in the regular season, I see no reason why they won't win a fourth consecutive World Championship. QB Austreim seemed very confident they would be able to shut down the Titans and put more than enough points on the board.
Pick: Lions -7.0

Turnovers by Billy Rein: O/U 2.5, you should take the over on this one.

Touchdowns by QB Austreim (not passing): O/U 2.5, taking the under since he has a very strong receiving and running game this season.

Number of jokes made about Winge at the banquet: O/U 25.5 and I'm betting the house on the over!

Good luck tomorrow gentlemen, and may the best team win!

Supreme Court

After spending several hours on this topic this semester, I can't help but feel it is an overrated part of the legislature. The youngest Justice was born in 1955, which makes him a dinosaur (sorry, mom, dad, I know when you were born and I really don't think you're dinosaurs. It' just that John G. Roberts is a conservative on top of his age).

You basically have nine men and women deciding on the outcome of cases based on their interpretation of a document over 200 years old, written in a time of revolution and which include the famous second amendment: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. That is the entire law!

He/she who can write me the best interpretation of the second amendment and post it/mail it to me by Monday will win the awesome prize of a very bad keg flick. On dvd.

Oh?

Really? You're gonna tell me how this game is played? You're gonna coach me? Make decisions based on how many years of experience? Fucking asshole.

Thou shalt receive

I found a cellphone outside Blarneys last night, and I managed to return it to it's lawful owner today, with some obstacles being overcome by my superior reasoning! Or something like that. Good deed of the day anyhoo, and she seemed pretty relieved that someone found her phone.

Stupid

I left my milk, my cheese, my cream cheese and 3 DVD's at Wal-Mart yesterday, right at the checkout. Idiot!

Week 7 picks

Woho! Lerkendal Lions return to the championship game to play for yet another world championship in next weekend's DFL finals. Good job gentlemen!

San Diego
@ Kansas City
Pick: San Diego -4.5

Indianapolis
@ St. Louis
Pick: Indianapolis -13.0

Chicago
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati -1.0

Green Bay
@ Cleveland
Pick: Green Bay -9.0

Houston
@ San Francisco
Pick: Houston -3.0

Minnesota
@ Pittsburgh
Pick: Minnesota +5.0

Buffalo
@ Carolina
Pick: Carolina -7.0

New York
@ Oakland
Pick: New York -6.0

Atlanta
@ Dallas
Pick: Atlanta +4.0

New Orleans
@ Miami
Pick: Miami +6.5

Arizona
@ New York
Pick: Arizona +7.0

Philadelphia
@ Washington
Pick: Philadelphia -7.0

Bye: Baltimore, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Seattle, Tennessee

Last week: 7-6

Season: 47-37-1

Why why why

Is it so fucking hard to find 5 classes for next semester? 4 first ones are relatively gimmes, but that last one has to fulfill at least one of 3 requirements, and it has to fit my schedule. Oh well, I'll whine more about this on Friday, I'm sure.

I recently discovered something that I'm very good at, but it is not something they will give you college credit for, or that I can put into making a decent living with later on in life. However, my new-found skill is that of being able to end conversations just as they are about to turn awkward. Think about it: you meet someone from somewhere back in time, and you stop to hear what's going on and shit. At some point, you are going to run out of natural things to say (yes, work/school/crack/husband/wife is doing good/not good) and that's all that is needed for these types of reunions. This is were I come in, ending the conversation before there is awkward silence or an embarrassing question, and make both parties leave and go on with their lives having a fond memory of meeting the other one again.

Do you have any funny skills?

Sunday feels like Monday

59-0 shellacking of the Titans, Jets lost and boom, we're atop the East. Willi is fucking freezing right now, I think the thermometer outside my window said 30 degrees when I checked not 20 minutes ago.

Jasper Howard, an outstanding cornerback for the Uconn football team was stabbed last night and died early this morning. According to local law enforcement, the purpetrator is still at large, and as most of you know, Uconn is 15-20 minutes up the road. Rest in peace Jasper.

In other news, this week has been horrendously stressfull, and it's not gonna let up until the second week of December. On the bright side, I enjoyed some parties with some good people, so it's a decent balance of all work and some play.

2nd

Secondary playing good today. Coverage is tight, hitting is hard, going for the ball. Where were these guys last week?

!!!!

Brady, looking, fires deep. Hits Randy for a touchdown!

There's my guy!

First, a replay where you see Sebastian Vollmer manhandling Vanden-Bosch, then the flea flicker to Randy for the score. Woop woop!

Let it snow

It's really coming down in Foxboro today. 39 degrees and the field is WHITE.

Gamecast

So when did Laurence Maroney decide to actually RUN with the football?

Week 6 picks

Picks galore!

Kansas City
@ Washington
Pick: Kansas City +6.5

St. Louis
@ Jacksonville
Pick: St. Louis +10.0

Baltimore
@ Minnesota
Pick: Minnesota -3.0

New York
@ New Orleans
Pick: New York +3.5

Cleveland
@ Pittsburgh
Pick: Pittsburgh -14.0

Carolina
@ Tampa Bay
Pick: Carolina -3.0

Houston
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Houston +5.5

Detroit
@ Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -13.0

Arizona
@ Seattle
Pick: Arizona +3.0

Philadelphia
@ Oakland
Pick: Philadelphia -13.5

Buffalo
@ New York
Pick: New York -10.0

Chicago
@ Atlanta
Pick: Atlanta -3.0

Denver
@ San Diego
Pick: San Diego -3.5

Bye: Dallas, Miami, Indianapolis, San Francisco

Last week: 10-3

Season: 40-31-1

Power Rankings

Okay, so there has been some shift the last few weeks, and a few surprises: Broncos and Bengals atop their divisions is easily two of the biggest surprises this year. I still have the Giants at #2, but if you look at their schedule, it hasn't exactly been packed with potential playoff teams (sorry, Cowboys fans).

1. Indianapolis
2. New York G
3. New Orleans
4. Cincinnati
5. Minnesota
6. Denver
7. Philadelphia
8. Pittsburgh
9. New York J
10. Chicago
11. New England
12. Atlanta
13. Baltimore
14. Green Bay
15. San Diego
16. Dallas
17. San Francisco
18. Arizona
19. Houston
20. Miami
21. Seattle
22. Jacksonville
23. Washington
24. Carolina
25. Detroit
26. Tennessee
27. Buffalo
28. Kansas City
29. Cleveland
30. Tampa Bay
31. Oakland
32. St. Louis

What do your power rankings look like?

That Swedish guy

Okay, so I guess it's time to say something about this whole Peace Prize thingy. I've been talking to a few people here over the weekend and today, and even Americans agree that it's way too early for Obama to receive such an award. I haven't met anyone yet defending the choice of the Nobel Committee, and I must say I agree with them.

The pros: Obama has done a good job re-establishing US-Russian relations, and let's face it, that is pretty important for the stability of both economies and peace throughout. He's also promised to end the war in Iraq by xx.yy.20zz (can't remember the date), close down Guantanamo Bay, and this is all good and well. He has also singel-handedly cured AIDS and reunited the Korean peninsula, and rumour has it there has been established a direct line from the White House to Mars.

The cons: Obama was nominated 12 days (ooooooooh, look at me using the bold lettering for the first time) into his presidency. 12 days. Most people spend more time writing their term paper. Obama did enough to warrant a Peace Prize? And, last time I checked, he's still running two wars!! Peace Prize?

I was very confused by this decision until I saw who the members of the Nobel Committee are: Thorbjørn Jagland, whom I respect deeply, and then a bunch of old, conservative leftists. (Is that possible, you ask? In a social democracy, I say it is.)

It will be a good publicity stunt though, having the leader of the free world in Oslo for a day or two in December. But this award should (could) have come at a later time in his presidency, maybe in a few years time, when he has actually withdrawn from Iraq and closed Guantanamo. Yoy get back to me then...

Zombieland

Went to see Zombieland on Saturday, after a delicious hibachi meal. This movie is not your ordinary zombie splatter, although it is very, very gory. It is well acted, well written, and the actors are perfect in their roles. A very good movie and one to recommend if you need a good laugh.

Week 5 picks

I know, I know, I promised you some power rankings this week, but I have been busy. For the record, I think the Mannings are quarterbacking the two best teams in the league right now, with Minnesota and New Orleans a notch below. Onto the action...

Cincinnati
@ Baltimore
Pick: Cincinnati +8.5

Pittsburgh
@ Detroit
Pittsburgh might be the 6th or 7th best team in the league.
Pick: Pittsburgh -10.5

Tampa Bay
@ Philadelphia
Pick: Philadelphia -14.5

Washington
@ Carolina
Pick: Washington +3.5

Dallas
@ Kansas City
Pick: Kansas City +8.0

Cleveland
@ Buffalo
Pick: Cleveland +6.0

Oakland
@ New York
Pick: New York -14.5

Minnesota
@ St. Louis
Pick: Minnesota -10.0

Atlanta
@ San Francisco
Pick: San Francisco -2.5

Jacksonville
@ Seattle
Pick: Seattle -1.0

Houston
@ Arizona
Pick: Arizona -5.5

Indianapolis
@ Tennessee
Pick: Indianapolis -3.5

New York
@ Miami
Pick: New York -1.0

Bye: Chicago, Green Bay, New Orleans, San Diego

Last week: 4-9

Season: 30-28-1

I know, I know

I'm waaaaay late. Patience is a virtue, but so is awesomeness, right?

Tuesday Evening Moron

Brett Favre was not the difference last night. Trent Edwards could've won that game for the Vikings. Deciding factor: Vikings O-line. And if you disagree with that, you can fuck off. (Yes, I'm upset that the Pack lost)

I am currently in the process of wolfing down some Ritz and brie, man how I have missed it! Power rankings tomorrow!

Edit: Am I the only one who sees the irony in molded cheese?

PS: Comments are enabled, stop whining to yourself and let the world know!

Week 4 picks

Can someone please tell me what to do with my fantasy team?

Tampa Bay
@ Washington
Pick: Washington -7.0

New York
@ Kansas City
Pick: New York -8.5

Detroit
@ Chicago
Pick: Detroit +10.0

Cincinnati
@ Cleveland
Pick: Cincinnati -5.5

Seattle
@ Indianpolis
Pick: Indianapolis -10.5

Oakland
@ Houston
Pick: Oakland +9.0

Tennessee
@ Jacksonville
Pick: Tennessee -3.0

Buffalo
@ Miami
Pick: Buffalo -1.0

New York
@ New Orleans
Pick: New Orleans -7.0

Dallas
@ Denver
Pick: Denver +3.0

St. Louis
@ San Francisco
Pick: St. Louis +9.5

San Diego
@ Pittsburgh
Pick: San Diego +6.0

Green Bay
@ Minnesota
Pick: Green Bay +3.5

Bye: Arizona, Atlanta, Carolina, Philadelphia

Last Week: 10-5

Season: 26-19-1

I want the truth!

You can't handle the truth! Great movie!

Sunday Salutes!

Congratulations to Rosenborg BallKlubb, national champions today with a 2-0 victory over arch-rival Molde. Good to be back on top!

Patriots win 26-10 over Atlanta, and I must say, they played a lot better today than they did first two weeks. Run D was solid, coverage unit was OK and the offense finally got going, with both Moss and Fred Taylor having 100+ yard days, Taylor with a TD aswell. Liked what I saw from the O-line too, even though Atlanta doesn't have too much of a pass rush and/or blitz to write home about.

Crastinating!

Pro

...wait for it...

Week 3 picks

Now, as you all know, power rankings are of no use and usually suck. But I thought I'd give you more help in your office pool. A change this week, we are back to NOT betting on the Patriots games. On to the picks...

Jacksonville
@ Houston
Pick: Houston -3.5

New York
@ Tampa Bay
Pick: New York -6.5

Cleveland
@ Baltimore
Pick: Cleveland +13.0

Tennessee
@ New York
Pick: Tennessee +3.0

San Francisco
@ Minnesota
Pick: San Francisco +7.0

Green Bay
@ St. Louis
Pick: Green Bay -6.5

Washington
@ Detroit
Wow, shitty game by the 'Skins last week.
Pick: Detroit +6.5

Kansas City
@ Philadelphia
Pick: Philadelphia -8.5

Chicago
@ Seattle
Pick: Chicago -1.5

New Orleans
@ Buffalo
Pick: New Orleans -5.5

Pittsburgh
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati +4.0

Denver
@ Oakland
Pick: Denver -1.0

Miami
@ San Diego
Pick: San Diego -6.0

Indianapolis
@ Arizona
Pick: Arizona -3.0

Carolina
@ Dallas
Pick: Carolina +8.5

Last week: 9-6-1

Season: 16-14-1

Power Rankings

A new edition this year, we are releasing power rankings now and then. If you agree or disagree, feel free to leave a comment.

1. Ravens
2. Saints
3. Falcons
4. Giants
5. Colts
6. Vikings
7. Jets
8. 49ers
9. Cardinals
10. Steelers
11. Eagles
12. Patriots
13. Titans
14. Packers
15. Chargers
16. Bears
17. Texans
18. Cowboys
19. Bengals
20. Bills
21. Seahawks
22. Broncos
23. Redskins
24. Panthers
25. Buccaners
26. Dolphins
27. Jaguars
28. Raiders
29. Chiefs
30. Browns
31. Lions
32. Rams

Movie recommendation

Alpha Dog, believe it or not. Picks coming!

To Arthur!

Happy 250th birthday!

None

Why is Rob Schneider in Judge Dredd? Confusing.

Seriously? If it works, maybe

What that means, it's up to you to figure out.

My school has a dry campus. Effectively, this bans all forms of alcohol from the school premesises at all times. In reality, it gets people into trouble for having a beer while watching the Sawx beat the living shit out of the Yanks (while some people actually choose to get drunk of tequila, we will not have that debate right now).

As all of you (yes, all 4 of you) are aware of, the legal drinking age in the US is 21. That means there are a good 2000 plus kids underage living on our campus. Should they be allowed to drink? Absolutely not. But what about the law obiding citizens that are old enough? Cram us into the one bare within walking distance? Send us to some beat-up house party that gets broken up by the cops at 1am?

No, we are not in school to drink. Okay, I am not in school to drink. But those who are, should have the opportunity to waste their money any way they want, be it on alcohol, weed, or, god forbid, education.

I say you put all of the ones who are of age in one building. On-campus housing would be more popular among upperclassmen if they could, not host parties, but have a beer or 3 before heading to the bar. And it would greatly reduce the money University spends on judicial meetings every semester.

A friend of mine recently got kicked out of his room for 5 days. If he gets caught again, he will not be allowed to live in a residential hall on campus ever again. Not enough, the instituted a new rule, which we named after him: no more than 2 guests per resident in ANY room on campus. What if I'm making dinner for someone? I swear, some of the people running this school are retarded.

One last thing: most of the judicial punishment handed out at school is because of alcohol, a legal substance. More than half the people I know that live on campus smoke weed on a regular basis, and they never get busted...

Gah!

Tough loss today, the defence looked shaky in pass coverage, and Brady looked off most of the day. Review the tape and prepare for Atlanta.

Friday! Foooooooooooooo!

Relaxing with an Octifest and waiting to go to the TASA Ramadan Dinner at 6.45 local time. The weekend is here, good!

Got a new job, Intercultural Center!

I have Dead Or Alive 2 and Sega Rally 2, but no console yet. Anyone care to guess which one?

Week 2 picks

Once again, making an ass of myself...(note: all picks this week made under the influence of alcohol, so I might actually hit a few)

Carolina
@ Atlanta
Pick: Atlanta -6.5

Minnesota
@ Detroit
Pick: Detroit +10.0

Cincinnati
@ Green Bay
Pick: Cincinnati +9.0

Houston
@ Tennessee
Pick: Tennessee -6.5

Oakland
@ Kansas City
Pick: Oakland +3.0

New England
@ New York
Uncertainty rules.
Pick: New England -3.5

Arizona
@ Jacksonville
They cant't be that bad?
Pick: Arizona +3.5

St. Louis
@ Washington
Rams however, they can.
Pick: Washington -10.0

New Orleans
@ Philadelphia
This opened as a pick 'em, now it's moved to one in favor of the home team. But you know Brees is gonna sling it.
Pick: New Orleans +1.0

Seattle
@ San Francisco
Uncertainty rules here aswell.
Pick: Seattle +1.5

Tampa Bay
@ Buffalo
Pick: Tampa Bay +5.0

Cleveland
@ Denver
Pick: Denver -3.0

Baltimore
@ San Diego
Pick: Baltimore +3.0

Pittsburgh
@ Chicago
Pick: Pittsburgh -3.0

New York
@ Dallas
Pick: New York +3.0

Indianapolis
@ Miami
Pick: Indianapolis -3.0

Last week: 7-8 (not counting the Pittsburgh-Titans game, cause I did not pick against the spread)

Insurance

The election is over and it looks like the red and green will continue their reign of terror! No, just kidding. Seriously, this blog is probably being watched now cause I said terror. Oooops, one more.

Actually slept through one class today, can't have any more of those. Watched The Hunt for Red October last night, that movie carries very well for being almost 20 years old. Scott Glenn and Alec Baldwin do an excellent job, and of course, Connery is his old self.

Going to WalMart with Rich in a few now, wish me luck!

Headline

I have no words. That game was a series of frustrations, heart attacks, and I think I might have blacked out a couple times during the final minute. Shit! Brady looked rusty, our offensive line is definetely not Pro-Bowl caliber at this moment and Jerod got hurt early. No word on him yet. Important thing is, we pulled a W out of the hat and are sitting at 1-0 before taking on the Jets. Whew. I needed a scotch to calm myself after that one.

Election!

Hope ya'll have voted! I'm enjoying some time off between classes now, and of course, watching the Patriots later.

On behalf of

...every Denver fan, and every Green Bay Packer: Welcome to the NFC North, Jay Cutler.

Fantasy looks lost though.

Week 1 picks

First embarrassment of the year:

Dallas
@ Tampa Bay
Pick: Dallas -5.0

Philadelphia
@ Carolina
Pick: -1.5

Kansas City
@ Baltimore
(Matt Cassel is inactive)
Pick: Baltimore -12.0

New York
@ Houston
Pick: New York +4.5

Miami
@ Atlanta
Pick: Miami +4.0

Minnesota
@ Cleveland
Pick: Cleveland +4.0

Denver
@ Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati -4.5

Detroit
@ New Orleans
Pick: Detroit +13.5

Jacksonville
@ Indianapolis
Pick: Jacksonville +6.5

Washington
@ New York
Pick: Washington +6.5

San Francisco
@ Arizona
Pick: Arizona -6.0

St. Louis
@ Seattle
Pick: St. Louis +8.0

Chicago
@ Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -4.0

Buffalo
@ New England
Pick: New England -10.5

San Diego
@ Oakland
Pick: San Diego -9.0

Ready for some football!

Fantasy lineup for this week:

Aaron Rodgers
Randy Moss
Desean Jackson
Chris Chambers (I might switch one of the two smaller ones for Anthony Gonzalez)
Chris Johnson
Ryan Grant
Kevin Boss
Stephen Gostkowski
Patriots DST
James Harrison
Troy Polamalu
Terrell Suggs

Football!

Notre Dame at Michigan just finished in a wild manner, with Tate Forcier guiding the Wolverines 50 some yards in just over 2 minutes to toss the game winner with 11 seconds left on the clock. Good game.

NFL starting tomorrow, should be good. Don't know what game I'm watching yet, but I'm hoping for Packers-Bears.

Some guy actually offered me coke today...sweet home Willimantic...

Whisky Tango

We are gathered here today. In a virtual world anyway. Not much to report, VectorWorks is going okay, classes are tough and some people are plain idiots. As usual.

Relaxing with a Newcastle and the BS Report right now, I'm making dinner and browsing journals later. Yi-fucking-ha.

Yeah!

First time I log into Pandora since May, and it gets me straight to Comfortably Numb.

There is no pain you are receding!

Screw fear, I'm going straight for anger!

So SELF (State Educational Loan Fund) are screwing me over. Big time. All the other Norwegian kids are receiving monetary support of approximately 102 000 kr per semester. Eddie, on the other hand, gets only 81 000. In these times of dire economic straits and uncertain labor arrangements, those are big differences. Fuck that, those are big differences no matter what time they occur.

As you can tell, this bothers me a wee bit. Good news though, I got my camera up and running!

NFL predictions galore: Pittsburgh will beat Tennessee in the opener on Thursday.

Hey-ho!

Brewski and Ikea-furniture. Nothin' to it.

Things and thangs

Had my first meeting with prof. Plavcan today, or as he preffers to be called, Paul. And he actually called out the people that require you to address them by their title. Down to earth kinda guy, but I'm not sold on him yet. And what's with the fat kid next to me laughing hysterically at EVERY SINGLE JOKE, even if they're not funny, not even by Jimmy Fallon standards?

I have no gut feeling about this fall, it could be a landslide either way or it can wind up in the middle somewhere. Only thing for certain is I know I have a lot to do.

One more thing to mention, and I must thank Christian for being the first one to point out this: I am quoted in this weeks Tuesday Morning Quarterback under "Reader Comments"; clicky here. It's not Simmons quality, but it is a stepping stone, none the less.

One NFL prediction before you go: I think the Colts will win the AFC South.

Bruuuuuu!

Through the esteemed Mike Reiss of Boston Globe fame, Al Michaels reports that Tedy Bruschi is retiring. The Patriots have scheduled an "important player announcement" for tomorrow at 10.45am.

This isn't all that surprising, considering Bruschi's age and the fact that he had a stroke a few years back., but he will still be missed both on and off the field. He's been the face of the Patriots for a long time, and one you can call loyal and focused. Never take a play off, never complain, just do your job.

#54 will surely be missed come September 14, but his legacy will live on with Patriot fans across the world. Tedy Bruschi is a true football player.

More coffee please!

With first day of classes only hours away, I'm making sure I know where to go tomorrow (Webb 210 for starters) and that I have pens and paper. Got a hold of a new camera today, a 1200IS from Canon. I'll see if I can get some pictures of the apartment going. CT is really, really hot today, I've been sweating practically since I got up.

First NFL-prediction of the year (and some of you have already heard it): Brett Favre will not make the Vikings a better team (meaning they will not advance further in the playoffs with him at quarterback).

Second NFL-prediction of the year: the AFC West will be the worst division in the AFC.

Willi, at last!

What a trip! Ho-lee-shit! Didn't sleep the night before my flight left, got done packing just in time to leave for the airport. Duty free and all that jazz.

In Copenhagen, I got a few hours of sleep before I had breakfast #2 and then boarded to Washington D.C. In D.C., I was scheduled to have 2 hours and 20 minutes to connect to Boston. I never made my flight. Almost two hours in immigration line, followed by another hour and thirty in secondary and then half an hour to repack my duty free and go through security again meant they rebooked me for the 10pm flight to Boston.

With no out of Beantown that night, I had to stay at the Hilton, which was so far the high-light of my joruney: big room, 2 queen size beds, view of Boston, and large breakfast with my own pot of coffee in the morning. There was even a bathtub.

I'm now sitting in the living room of my apartment, which is right off campus. I do not have any furniture yet, and I think someone spilled beer on my floor last night. It looks like a dump and the floor is slanted, and I had to tape shut about 10 holes in my closet to prevent spiders from coming in. But it's home, and I'm here.

Hungover

Bluh.

Welcome home!

My vacation is officially over! Not that I'm working too many days the next few weeks, but aside from a business trip to Bergen next week I'm staying home until I leave on the 26th. Staying at grandma's was good fun as always, I went fishing one day, I met friends and family and relaxed my ass off. Just the way vacation should be.

Elections are coming up here in Norway, who are YOU voting for?

Heroes and...zeroes?

Public Enemies is out at your local theatre, and it is truly an astonishing piece of work. Mr. Depp and mr. Bale both excel on opposite ends of the law, and I even heard someone talking about Academy Award nominations.

However, this kind of movie, along with the should-be masterpiece The Assasination of Jesse James by The Coward Robert Ford represents a unique and tantalizing aspect of American culture. Both these movies idolizes two crooks, two murderers, and gets the viewer emotionally attached to the character (Depp is way more convincing as Dillinger than Pitt as James by the way). But fact of the matter is that these two were wanted criminals who terrorized ordinary citizens and often found themselves in gunfights with the law. Jesse James even has a few songs about him! Are we so desperate that we want every charming man, every history of cleverness to relate to the American dream, even if that means killing a few cops and robbing a few trains? I mean, Robert Ford is still loathed by those Americans who recognize his name!

SPOILER: I'm not saying that the movie shouldn't grab you. But it is clear that they have angled it so that you feel sorry for Dillinger when he is gunned down by G-men at the end. Anyway, it is still a fabulous movie, go see it and know how car chases should be!

Way too late

I know it's been a while, but if you're still reading, we've got some goodies for ya!

Came home last night after working the worlds wettest shift between Thursday and Friday. Not a lot to do actually, there was an abundance of people so we ended up spending most of our time just waiting for work. According to our crew chief they changed the bookings three or four times in the last two weeks, and they had very odd times for some of them. Anyhoo, job well done, but it is good to be back home.

Tommy drove me from Kristiansand to Oslo, and as we are approaching Drammen, i notice something on the road signs. The following numbers are distances in kilometers between random points on E18 and Oslo and Drammen, respectively.

105-62
100-58
87-45
83-43
68-28
51-11
45-5

How can the distance vary by 3 kilometers over a 60 kilometer (not even that) distance?

Nevertheless, I have to go. Speaky later.

Time is running out, we have to find our friends

Off to Kristiansand today, then Oslo for the weekend. Thor doing an awesome job today, managed to get 12 points on the Green Jersey, and this is shaping up to becoming a very exciting finish! Leaving in about 30-40 minutes, so just cleaning and packing up the last of my stuff. Don't know if I'll have internet in Kristiansand, so maybe nothing until Sunday. Until then, be safe.

Bad Company

I can't tell you the last time I was this excited to find a frozen pizza in the freezer. Sundays: some are soft, some are hard, and some are just the right way!

And we were all standing there, looking for the geese

Beautiful day here in Trondheim, sun is shining from a blue sky. Having a few mates over for a barbie' and some brews tonight, should be good times. Me folks are on the plane to Minneapolis now, going to Seattle and San Fran. And training camp is not that many days away! Sweet.

Elections this fall, anyone got any strong opinions on what I should vote?

Funkyzeit!

Went to see Brüno last night, Sacha Baron Cohen's latest comedy about a gay, Austrian fashionista. It's quite amusing and in some scenes it is worse than Borat was, but it ranks below it on comedy.

While some of the stunts are just to show how ignorant some people are (gay converter and guess what, a second-stage gay converter. Both Christians, obviously), a few cuts makes you wonder if this is increasing the stereotypes against gay people or if people can actually see through it and take it for what it is: raw humor. And, of course, stereotypes and prejudice are the main ingredients in this film. It's so wrong in so many ways, but it's still fucking hilarious!

Only question now is, what's next?

Wassap!

The world is still in pain after loosing Michael and Farrah, but it was recently brought to my attention that Billy Mays passed away not long ago. He will be missed, even if his voice was piercing and too loud.

Not much going on here in Trondheim these days, lots of relaxing and a few hours of work, that's pretty much it. Actually feeling bored at times.

Cream

We were a small crowd, but we made a shitload of noise, especially when we were singin' our way down town on the bus. It turned to a freestyle cover-battle, in which I have to say, my side won! It's like that, and that's the way it is! Hoah!

Vista was freakin' awesome last night, I haven't been to a lounge/club in Trondheim in fucking forever. Lots of people to meet and greet, good to see some of you guys again. Only problem is that drinks are expensive (and good, so you end up buying more of them), so I managed to rack up an OK bar tab. Bluh.

Just chillin' around today, watched some TDF and waiting for dinner, should be good.

Biscuits

Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson both died on the same day last week. Truly tragic. Farrah was a great actress probably most known for her role on the original Charlie's Angels show, and Michael, well, I think you know all about him. I will say this: he made great music (maybe not the last few years) and he was an entertainer on stage. But his personal life and the trial (he was aquitted, but who knows?) is forever going to linger. He was a character and lead a life with a few wrinkles and a few sprinkles, but I'll try to remember Michael the Musician, not Michael the allegded molester.

(Note: I have told some of you that I don't think he's dead. I do. But let's just say that if someone in this world had the balls and the opportunity to fake his own death as a publicity stunt, it would be Michael. So now you know.)

The King is dead. Long live the King!

Nothing more

Been a relatively busy week, but that's no excuse for not blogging. Shame on me! Spent the weekend in Oslo with a few good friends, thanks for all the fun guys! Rosenborg beat VIF 2-1 on Sunday, my first time at Ullevål Stadium. Nice!

Other than that, just enjoying the sun, looking for stuff to do, both fun and work. Tired now, and getting up early tomorrow, so see ya'll later!

Gameday

Semifinals being played today, I just had breakfast and now I'm starting to put my game-face on. We play at 1700hrs local time at Jordal in Oslo. This is it, do or die.

"...either, we heal, now, as a team, or we will die as individuals."
-Coach D'Amato, 'Any Given Sunday'

Beat up on yo pads!

Just don't

The nerve of some people! Don't you dare criticize me and what I've done for the team, be it on or off the field! Pull your head out of your ass, lock your ego up for when you get home and start acting like an adult! Get with the program or get the fuck out!

Happy Whatever

Missed my flight this morning. Passed-out tired, I can't remember the last time I slept through an alarm clock without even hearing it. Man. And the fucked-up thing is, I didn't sleep that many hours either. I was supposed to get 2 and a half, and I overslept to make it a grand total of 5. WTF? I'm still tired! If I am going to miss my flight, might as well let me sleep for at least 7 hours straight, especially after such a long day. Still kinda mad about that one, maybe in a good mood later today.

AC/DC was freakin' awesome though!

Saturdays and shitty performances

Our team started out pretty good against the Vikings, scoring a defensive touchdown to take a 6-0 lead. After that we had some mental breakdowns and allowed a few too many scores for the end result of 27-6. I had two tackles but gave up 15 yards on a stupid PI penalty in the fourth, which enabled them to prolong their drive. We play the Vikings next weekend too, expect more hard hitting action, right after these messages!

Drinking Dahls right now, going out later tonight I think...but I need some chow first...

I've got, high hopes

In Oslo at the moment, just got here from Bergen where I did a little bit of everything tearing down Stageco's marvelous structure. No work tomorrow, but there is a game to be played on Saturday at Jordal, come spectate and cheer!

St. Anger is a better album than Death Magnetic, and I will defend it till the day I die, so fuck off! (Pardon my French)

After midnight

Heading to bed in a few short ones, just letting you know I will be assembling a stage in the south-east corner of Torvet tomorrow from 10am. Will also be handing out drinks to finished runners from about 7pm.

Bergen on Wednesday, Oslo late Thursday. Lotsa travelling and it's not for vacational purposes! Details to come, in the mean time, good night to the tunes of The Boss' Magic.

Quickie

Good W against Trolls today, even if we didn't play up to our potential. Not satisfied with my own game, I think I need more tackling practice. Heading out for brewskies soon, call me if you're hitting up T-Town tonight! Domers Pride!

Bill is killed?

He was found dead in his hotel room in Bangkok yesterday. I'm talking about David Carradine, the renowned actor who among other famous parts portrayed Bill in Tarantino's double feature Kill Bill. Rest in peace David...

Back from the West

First of all, congratufuckinglations to GM for managing to go bankrupt. Good job fellas!

Bergen is rather nice when it's not raining, and it is especially satisfying wearing a Rosenborg jersey around town when they won 4-0 that same night.

Don, Glen, Joe and the rest of the Eagles put on a performance for the ages. They may be old, they may not be as hard-hitting as Metallica or AC/DC, but they sure know how to entertain, and their repertoir is never-ending. Even the newest album fits in nicely with their older, more known songs and the concert is never boring. After intermission they start off with a few slow tunes before kicking it up a notch and going out with a bang. Take It Easy and Desperado round of the night as encores. Definetely worth the price of admission, although I would have liked to hear Last Resort. A solid 6/6.

Domers going to the playoffs! Solid 35-6 ousting of the Gladiators, but I must say I would like to have that TD back. All my fault. On to the Trolls this week in our last home game of the season. Saturday at 2pm, Lade Idrettsanlegg.

Going for the?

Not much but chillaxing here in the basement, game tomorrow at 1400 hours local time. Going to boil some pasta later and watch 1st and Ten.

Still no job for me, and me wallet is thinner than Calista Flockhart. I don't think I can keep going with this decadent lifestyle anymore. Goodbye, Champagne and caviar! But I digress...

Watched a few episodes of CSI last night, basically the first time I have watched TV since I got home, and in a very long time before that too. I'm managing without it.

Should check in with you tomorrow, hopefully. Adios!

Bits and tid-pieces

We did lose against Eidsvoll on Saturday, but we played a tough game, and from what I've heard some people were impressed by our performance. I only got one kick-off, but it was still good to don the green and yellow again and just to be out there with my team.

Anyone got a job for me?

I'm thinking of watching Office Space right now, but since it's almost 00.45 it might be too late since I have an appointment at noon. What to do what to do?

I'm not in the mood right now, talk to you some other time...

Trøtt som faen

Let's see if we get some sleep on the plane tomorrow! This is my last report from the US in quite a while, I must say, the semester has been eventfull and stressing. Going home is going to be good!

Hope to see most of you at Lade on Saturday, Domers will be hosting Eidsvoll 1814s in our first home game of the season! For now, I need to go to bed before I pass out.

Btw math exam went really well! I think...or hope?

Good night, and see you in Norway!

Mwahaha!

IT'S ALIVE!!!!

Gratulerer med dagen!

Kjære landsmenn: dagens innlegg blir publisert i både norsk og engelsk språkform, da man føler seg en smule patriotisk idet man feirer grunnloven. Jeg vet jeg er tidlig ute, men det er mye som foregår i morgen, og jeg har litt tid å slå ihjel nå.

Snart hjemme igjen på norsk jord, jeg gleder meg enormt. Det er trist å ikke kunne sprette kransekake med familie og venner i morgen, men jeg regner med dere får en fin feiring uansett! Nok en gang, gratulerer med dagen til dere alle sammen!

Ja vi elsker dette landet
som det stiger frem
furet, værbitt over vannet
med de tusen hjem

(PS: gratulerer til Alexander Rybak med seieren i MGP. Har fortsatt ikke hørt sangen)


My fellow Norwegians: today's posting is being published in both English and Norwegian because I am feeling a bit patriotic celebrating the constitution. This is early, but tomorrow is going to be a busy day, and I have some spare time on my hands right now.

Almost back on Norwegian soil, looking forward to it. It is sad not to be able to pop a tower cake with my friends and family, but I reckon you will all have an extraordinary celebration nevertheless! Once again, congratulations to all of you!

Yes, we love this country
As it rises forth
Rugged, weathered, above the sea
With the thousand homes

(PS: congratulations to Alexander Rybak for winning the Eurovision Song Contest tonight. I haven't even heard the song)

(PPS: full translation of the song can be found here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ja,_vi_elsker_dette_landet)

Shinquie

WARNING: the following post is a bit longer than my usual quirky writings, so you might wanna sit down for this one.

Okay, I haven't written anything in a loooong time. And quite frankly, I'm not gonna make an excuse. You know how I hate apologies.

There has been a shitload of stuff going on lately, so I will try to give you a (brief) overview on some of the things I have been up too...here goes:

New York City the first weekend of May, and it was totally awesome. Stayed at a nice hotel right off Times Square, went up top in the ESB (that's Empire State Building to all of you rookies), spent some money shopping, just soaked in the scene and generally had a good friggen time.

Jason Bateman actually walked RIGHT past me as I was waiting for my cousins outside an UGG-store in Soho. He's kinda tall. Also went to this place called Max Brenner's Chocolate by the Bald Man. Everything they serve has some kind of chocolate in it. I know a few people that would looooove to go there...ya'll know who you are.

On Sunday we went to Pete Seeger's 90th birthday party at MSG (another abv, deal with it). Bruce was there, Tom Morello was there, Patterson Hood was there, Joan Baez, Arlo Guthrie...I could have a separate posting just about who was there celebrating. It was good fun tho, they played some songs I know, some I don't.

The week after NYC consisted of too much homework, too little time and not getting enough sleep. Had a few fun nights out, went to the NAS concert we had on campus this past Saturday. I really like NAS, he is one of the few rappers constantly keeping it real, and I was glad to see he played some old school shit as well. Crowd was pretty bad unfortunately, and it was hot as hell in the gymnasium.

Swordfish with cajun seasoning, salt and pepper is delicious! Made it myself.

My North Korea group finished it's run as diplomats today, and I must say I think we did a good job with what we had. It was a pretty fun assignment, having two full class sessions almost like a debate in a (semi) civilized manner (yes I have to take blame for part of the uncivilities).

Speaking of classes, tomorrow is last day of lectures before finals. I have ONE session tomorrow, 2pm-2.50pm, social psychology (which I totally rock) with dr. L.

Other than that, I have been spending a lot of my hours awake in the gym, trying to be the best I can (and then some) for my first meeting with Norwegian football this spring. It's almost 2am, so, good night to everyone!

Weekend for the ages!

First things first. A few highs (and lows) from the weekend:

Domers improve to 2-0 after a 4-0 win against the mighty Gladiators. Can't wait to join you guys back in Trondheim, less than 4 weeks from now!

Rosenborg win 2-1 away against Lillestrøm. No. 1 in the league!

Red Sox sweep the Yanks at Fenway after winning 4-1 Sunday night. AND JACOBY ELLSBURY STOLE HOME! Watching from the bleachers, it was obviously on the other side of the ballpark, but this is definetely going to go down as one of the most memorable nights of my life. Jacoby had 3 steals, one of which for home, Papi had a double, and J.D. Drew (!) had a ground rule double with an RBI.

It was sad to read the papers today and see that Beatrice Arthur is dead. Rest in peace, Bea.

A kid actually died at Celeron on Friday. These kids really don't know how to drink.

I lost my camera this weekend. Fuck.

Connecticut is definetely putting on a show, we've had mid-July temperatures for 4 straight days now, and yesterday it was close to 30 degrees. Unbelievably awesome!

...

Tired and frustrated. Wanna sleep. Going to gym.

This and that

Not much to say...I'm kinda scooting along, school, gym, work. Weekend should be good, first Uconn, then admitted students rec., then Fenway on Sunday night. Be sure to look for me in the bleachers!

If you think you know the answer, step right up

Eggs and bakey for lunch today, actually woke up at 8am on a couch in Willi Oaks. Procrastinating for a few hours now, should be heading to the gym in about 30 or so.

Domers won yesterday, a 23-6 road-win over Trolls. Good start to the season. Just wish I could've been there. No write-up from me, as everything I know about the game is hear-say. Have to try and get some HW done before the gym now, ya'll have a good one!

4 weeks of classes, finals and then home!

Here's to hoping Danny Ainge recoveres quickly from his heart attack.

Domers opening the season away against Trolls on Saturday. My brother dressing for the first time. So proud. Hope we can reel in a victory, get a quick start before the Green Gargoyles head to Kristiansand for a tough matchup. Can't wait to rejoin you guys, this season's going to be awesome!

Domer Pride

Maybe we should go somewhere else?

Single elim. flag-football, and we get knocked out. Too many individuals, not enough team players. Hate to say it, but if we weren't greedy on plays, and maybe started acting as parts of a team instead of me-first Terrel Owens clones, we could've easily won.

Almost done for the semester, and it shows with the amount of homework that's piling up. Presentation on Friday, and then next week we got 3 assignments due and 2 exams. Bright side, football season starts this weekend, and my beloved Domers open against the Trolls in Oslo. Sorry I can't be there fellas, but I have faith in you! Win us one!

Arbitrary consciousness and red meat

That just wrapped up the Georgia spring game, with Red winning 13-3. Not wildly exciting, but entertainment on a gloomy day. It's just so fucking boring here right now, you have no idea.

I want to watch the Masters, but I don't know if anything is on until tomorrow. Still looking for W2s, let me know if you see them...

Drift and Die

How much can money buy?

Last night was okay, even though our softball team got raped. I tried pitching with small amounts of success, but at least I got an infield single. New game on Monday, and we will also play our first game of spring flag football then. Happy times!

Weekend is slow here at Eastern, trying to get my psych paper going, taxes and so on. Burgers in about 30, should be awesome!

Bunny, Bunny, Easter is Funny!

Had my last lab today, good to get an extra three hours off on Thursdays. Prof. seems nice enough, but I'm not going to do anything with chemistry later in life anyways. And lately I feel the lectures have been venturing more into physics. Well well.

Everyone is leaving school today, cause we have a long-weekend on our hands. The few of us who are staying a bit late are gonna play softball tonight, were I will see if I can continue to maintain a good OBP.

Lots of parties happening tonight too, I believe we are going to the Tall Man's place after the game.

Spring is on the rise here in Willi, we had sun today, and I got my shades from Urban Behavior. Bring on the beach!

On a related note, the Dear Leader appeared in North Koreas national assembly this week, only to be reelected to leader of the Defense Committee, the highest position available in North Koreas chain of command. So in less than a week we've had the (un)successfull launch of a 3-stage rocket and Kim showing his face for the first time since August. Good week for North Korea :)

Boo!

Went to open house at Central today, met with the coach and a compliance director. Nice day, but windy. We'll see what happens in the next week or so.

Watching the Uconn hoops team losing by 9 with 2:22 to go. Not an enjoyable result.

Do we know anything at all?

What makes great music? Is it a good guitar-line, is it the off-beat drums or the shivering vocals? Does it have to be new and fresh, original? One of a kind? What about the lyrics? Do they have to be understandable, yet deep? Can they be ambigous? Can they have no meaning what so ever, or be straight forward about the most simplistic things? Why do we appreciate certain types of music? Why do we select one particular band or artist? What about similiar music? Why won't we listen to that, but stay with our favorite band?

April knockin' on the front door

Willi is nice today, it's WARM outside. People in shorts and tees, it's probably in the 60s or so.

Doing taxes in Norway is easy: you send them an SMS and everything is fine. The US, not that fun. The paperwork is about the length of the Great Wall and there are more boxes to check than weed-smoking college students. The fact that I have a couple papers due shortly doesn't exactly make it easy sitting down and doing my tax returns.

Norway was awesome, spent some time with friends and family, slept alot and worked out a bit. Flight back was horrendous, even though I had a window seat. And immigration at Newark took more than an hour!! I think my top 5 favorite airports go like this: Amsterdam, London (Heathrow, terminal 5), Boston, Trondheim, Reykjavik.

Better start crackin' on them homeworks, ya'll have a pleasant evenin.

Friday evenings are relaxing, unless there is a party going on

Me, I'm in West Hartford eating pizza, drinkin' some Sam and taking it easy on this first night of Spring Break. Well deserved, if you ask me. I'm going from Newark tomorrow afternoon, 1830 local time to be precise. Hope you all have a wonderful evening, and I will see you in Norway.

OOoo

Nice weather here today, celebrating St. Patrick. Trondheim soon, excited!

...

EC! SU! EC! SU!

Creatures in the kitchen

Did you know that when left in a sealed container for more than 5 days, spaghetti starts to grow a greenish kind of beard? College life is fascinating to the point where if your cheese is green on one side, and yellow on the other, half of it is still eatable!

I'm really not good at this.

You're not getting any pictures from the Uconn game here, they will be on Facebook later this weekend, possibly tonight.

I'm sitting in an armchair watching college hoops, I think I am on my third game already. Texas at Kansas. Doesn't matter though, switching to a movie in about five.

Spring time is hitting Connecticut with force, we're supposed to have a pretty warm weekend and start to next week, so I might break out the shorts and sunglasses.

Not a lot to write about really, I am on antibiotics, recovering from a few days of sickness. This unfortunately got me off my workout schedule, so I will start again next week, probably Tuesday. Only two weeks till Spring Break, awesome!

Free Agency, Free Fa(i)lling

As the NFL-buffs of the congregation will tell you, free agency is the period between the scouting combine and the NFL-draft when veterans try to get as much money out of their team as humanly possible. By the book, Washington gave Albert Haynesworth a seven year deal worth in the vicinity of $100 million. Ho-lee shit.

The thing that was most shocking to me was the news that the Patriots traded Mike "I can do it all" Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs, where former VP of player personnel, Scott Pioli, now runs the business.

How do you part with someone like Mike Vrabel? The guy has been instrumental on defence, he plays all downs and distances, he plays special teams and he has caught 8 touchdowns as a tight end. He never complains, he goes with the mantra "team first" and he is a veteran presence in the locker room. Unbelievable. This is almost worse to fathom than losing Tom Brady in the first quarter of the season last year. We'll see if this is just another masterpiece by Bill Belichick, but I really don't know...I guess time will tell.

Make benefit glorious nation of US and A!

Uconn hoops game today, pretty easy victory over USF. I thought they had a pretty bad game actually, despite winning with double digits: seemed like they knew this was going to be easy or something. Thanks to mr. McKenna we had pretty good seats, I'll see if I can throw some pictures your way.

Yes, I am staying in on a Saturday night, I actually have to do homework...not the way I want to spend my weekend, but sometimes you have no choice. Gotta get a few pages down tonight and hope for a early start tomorrow.

I have a movie recommendation for you, and I know that most of you will say "why haven't you seen it until now?" but I saw Memento last night and I really liked it. I like the way the story spins backwards, and you slowly uncover new bits and pieces of the puzzle. Well worth watching (again).

Free Bird

I am now part of the Democratic People's Republik of Korea. At least in one of my classes. We get to simulate negotiations with the rest of the Six-Party Crew, and I volunteered for North Korea. I am by no means a socialist, but I think the situations of the so called "rogue states" are intriguing, and there are no countries as isolated as North Korea.

Messages from other departments indicate that spring has come early, at least for some time - last night I was out running at around 7 in sweats and shorts. Finally back on the exercise track after my neck locked itself.

Presidents Weekend here in the great ol' US and A, which means we get this Friday and the coming Monday off. Great to get some extra time to relax and map out homework. Good thinking. I'm not going to celebrate any presidents though...

There is a lack of football news, except the New Brett Favre Saga (copyright Zip-City) where he retired for good. Again. To Kjetil: I told you so! Uconn hoops team doing very well, currently ranked #1 in the nation, the Celtics have stumbled a few times against good teams lately, so I'm not so sure about winning the conference any more. And A-Rod admitting to having used steroids. Ouch. That one is going to leave a mark on MLB.

That's it for now, I have a speaker to attend later tonight, so time for some grub. You stay classy (insert current location here).

Fun times!

We had some snow on Tuesday evening, so we ended up playing some tackle football outside the library, which was great fun until I got a stinger in the neck. Now I'm on cyclobenzaprine and naproxen for the rest of the week. Not funny.

Classes are coming along great, and the teachers I didn't like originally are starting to grow on me...will keep an eye on that situation.

Anybody watch the Super Bowl? It was a pretty shitty game, with a kind of an awesome ending, even though I would have liked the Cards to win it. I guess Holmes was a decent choice for MVP, though I thought that Harrison should have gotten it. Pro Bowl this weekend, are you all as pumped as I am? WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOO!

End game

F**ken' Steelers. I did not like the way that game ended, but it was exciting. More to come next week, cause, I'm not in the mood right now.

(Edit: Yes, I picked the Steelers to win, doesn't mean I wanted them to)

Super Sunday

The day we have all been waiting for! Except, the Patriots are not present as a team. As a result, I'm having problems being excited for the game. I mean, Larry Fitz is better than Randy Moss. No diss on Moss, but Larry is too good. And I like a good hitting defense, like the Steelers are. But, I'm still having problems getting pumped up for this game. My team is down at a local watering hole, eating Pittsburghers and Cardinal Wings, while I will be having chilli, icecream and donuts. Anyway, the reason you are here today:

Pittsburgh
@ Arizona
(In Tampa Bay)
This is technically a Pittsburgh home game, since every fan is going to be waving that terrible towel. The Steelers have a suffocating defense, and they will create havoc in Arizona's backfield. I think Pittsburgh will win the game, and I think they will cover the 7 point spread. Their defense is just to good and their offense will make a few good plays. I hate to do it, but...
Pick: Pittsburgh -7.0

Now you all have a great game, and we will talk to you later.

More on different topics of absolutely no value

The week rolled by with only one snow closing, on Wednesday. We had the insane amount of 5cm of snow covering the ground, so naturally, nobody could get nowhere. Spent the day thawing meat and playing Left 4 Dead, which is absurdly addicting! If you haven't tried it yet, steal an Xbox and get busy playing!

Psych today was quite interesting, this class might be what I am looking for as a major. Comparative politics is also looking pretty sweet, we get to do discussions and my classmates seem to be of the bright kind (not insinuating that I myself is particulary bright).

Big weekend for all sports fans across the globe, as it is Super Bowl Sunday in less than 30 hours! I haven't made a pick for the game, and I am not sure I will, because I really have no idea what will happen. Maybe we'll flip a coin.

People coming by later, we might go to the bar tonight. You all have a great one, I'll check in tomorrow or early Sunday.

Eastern, spring 09 edition

Or should I say winter? It's colder here than back home, that's for sure. Had a pretty OK flight, even though we were delayed out of London.

There were supposed to be some pictures here, but they would not let me upload them. Will see if I can do anything about it later.

Had a great vacation, that's for sure, good to meet friends and family again. Now it's back to the grind, and I must say, chemistry actually looks like it's going to be a lot of fun. Not sold on psych yet, but we'll see if it grows on me. Now for some mathematical reading...

8th

Happy Birthday!