Quick Thoughts

I missed the Penguins game, but I was getting scoring updates and I watched the game on DVR tonight... I definitely missed a good one. I was on the phone with my mom when Stafford was getting ready to take the penalty shot, so I heard that he scored. Later in the night I got a text saying that he scored again, and then I had a feeling that the Sabres might pull out of that game with a win. So I wasn't surprised to see the the Goose and Pominville scored en route to the Sabres victory.

It was especially nice to see the team get a win for Miller, whose been argurably the best goaltender up until this point who has done his job as a goaltender and then some in helping his team win games. He's always there when the team decides to take a period off by coming up with huge and timely saves, so it was great to see the team rally and come back with a win when Ryan had a rare off night. I'm sure the extra playing time for Lalime is great for him and he's getting more and more confidence each time he starts, which is great. I think the win last night was great for the many fans out there who were enjoying the Sabres' success, but also thinking in the back of their minds, "Can we still be competitive without Ryan Miller?"

Kudos to Lindy Ruff too, pulling Miller in favor of Lalime in the beginning of the 2nd period proved to be an excellent decision, but I was most impressed with how he chose Stafford to take the penalty shot. Drew had a lot on his shoulders with his lack of production as of late which lead to him being a healthy scratch in St. Louis, and it was real smart of Ruff to put him to the test on the penalty shot. Not only did Stafford deliver, but the combination of just scoring a huge goal on a penalty shot and just being benched the previous game seemed to have lit a fire under him and he scored another huge goal to help the Sabres battle back.

As much as I don't like seeing Miller getting benched, because it usually means that things aren't going so swell, I do have to say a part of me enjoys the little meltdowns that those moody little goalies have from time to time. So I had to say it was funny for me watching him throw a temper tantrum in the hallway. My dad and I were discussing how it must be awkward for the equipment guy to go and pick up the equipment and we were saying he must be like, "That's okay, Ryan. You can just set those anywhere..." I also miss his angry interviews after a tough loss, where a seemingly innocent question would end up getting the ever feared "Miller death stare" in return. Ahh, memories...

Anyways, I hope everyone has a great New Years Eve and here's to the Sabres having a successful 2010.

Question

Have we ever played a game against the Sens where we won DIDN'T lose a player to injury?

A Very Sabres Christmas

Someone had this idea on this Sabres fan message board that I post on, and I thought it was a pretty fun idea. It's a game where you decide what each Sabre should ask/want for Christmas... What better people to suggest what each player wants for Christmas than their beloved fans, clearly we know these men inside and out and what's best for them. Hopefully each and every Sabre reads this in time incase they need to make any last minute revisions to their Christmas lists in order to ensure that they get everything that they want this year for Christmas.

Anyways, let's get to it...

Hi, I'm Derek Roy and all I want for Christmas is fashion sense.

Hi, I'm Patrick Lalime and all I want for Christmas is a seat cushion.

Hi, I'm Tyler Myers and all I want for Christmas is some extra poundage.

Hi, I'm Paul Gaustad and all I want for Christmas is a roster spot on Team USA's Olympic squad...and some more energy saving tips.

Hi, I'm Jason Pominville and all I want for Christmas is a stick that doesn't break. Definitely.

Hi, I'm Nathan Paetsch and all I want for Christmas is a defenseman shortage.

Hi, I'm Toni Lydman and all I want for Christmas is to score more flukey goals on fellow Finns.

Hi, I'm Steve Montador and all I want for Christmas is for people to stop referring to me as "El Matador".

Hi, I'm Drew Stafford and all I want for Christmas Festivus is to hit a wide open net.

Hi, I'm Patrick Kaleta and all I want for Christmas is no more trips to the neurologist.

Hi, I'm Darcy Regier and all I want for Christmas is a fax machine.

And lastly...

Hi, I'm Ryan Miller and all I want for Christmas is Scott Gomez's throat slashed.

Feel free to add your own! And Merry Christmas everyone! :)

Wino Forever

Whenever I'm given the opportunity to drink wine in support of Ryan Miller and his Steadfast Foundation, I jump on the occasion. So it's a good thing that City Wine Merchant teamed up with The Steadfast Foundation to make it all possible! They're offering bottles of Catwalk for Charity themed Cabernet Sauvignon for $15, or you can spend $30 and get an autographed bottle...pretty awesome. I swung by there today and picked up myself an autographed bottle. Pretty stoked to drink it, because I love wine and I love Ryan Miller so it's a win-win combination.


Merry Christmas, Caroline.

Anyways, Check out this nice article about, you guessed it, Ryan Miller. Where it talks about, you guessed it, the Olympics!! For me, my favorite part of the article was this quote from Mr. Martin Brodeur:

"Look at his numbers," Brodeur said recently. "Tremendous. He's in control."

New Jersey's Martin Brodeur, a candidate to start for Team Canada, has noticed a maturity in Miller that goalies attain only through experience.

"You cannot be a top goalie if you go up and down all the time. You can stop 50 shots, but if you get pulled three times or whatever, it's all about being consistent," Brodeur said. "And I think he's getting that now."

Gotta love hearing one of the league's best goalies evaaaar giving such high regards to our dear little netminder.

So unfortunately due to work, I'm going to miss the next TWO games...saaah sad. I missed Friday's game against the Leafs because I was working...but I did catch the first period of the Pens game before heading off to a Christmas party. I watched a bit of the game here and there at the party, and I did watch a good portion of the third period and all of OT and the shootout. It's a little frustrating that we didn't grab the extra point...especially with all of our powerplay opportunities that we failed to capitalize on. But, we did hold the defending champs to only one goal in regulation, and it was one of those pesky back-to-back, 3-games-in-4 nights situations, and we were without Vanek and Miller...so the point is nice, but a victory was definitely in our reach Saturday night.

Although I'll be missing the last two games before the Christmas break, I am putting together a nice little Sabres-Christmas themed blog entry that I hope you all will enjoy. Until then...enjoy the game tonight!

MAD SIQ

So I think we all know who my favorite is in the Miller clan, but I've gotta show some love to Drew Miller after he scored this awesome goal in Detroit last night. Ch-ch-check it out...



Awesome... I love how excited he looks in his celebration too. Gotta love it. Obviously I don't follow Drew Miller as much as I follow Ryan Miller/the Sabres, but I do like to check in on him when I can due to me being quite partial to his older brother, and from I've heard ever since he got picked up by Detroit earlier this season, he's really stepped up his game. Detroit could use players like him stepping up... Atta boy, Mistahhh Millaaah.

Typical

The Sabres lost in Ottawa? Typical. We lost a key player to injury against Ottawa? Typical.

Apparently several players had food poisoning which really sucks, pretty interesting that several of our players got struck with it when we happened to play Ottawa. I guess the hockey gods out there really enjoy our troubles against the Sens. They still went 2-1 on the road and are 7-3 in their last 10...so no need to fret, it's just getting a little frustrating that Sabres fans can pretty much write off every Sens match up as a loss.

Anyways, I was thinking about something last week... I've lived in Buffalo my whole life, and during that time I've seen my fair share of Sabres and Bills out and about in public. But you know who I've never seen? Lindayyyyy. Out of all the years of him being a coach I've never seen him outside of the rink! But that changed today while I was Christmas shopping after my final exam... Lindayyyy was doing some shopping himself. Aww, Lindy...

So I won't be seeing much of the games this weekend due to me working late on Friday and a Christmas party on Saturday, but let's hope that the Sabres grab a pair of victories to let us forget about another embarrassment in Shottawa.

If you're still a little bummed out, I'll leave you with this trailer of a movie that's coming out next year about... Babies! It looks absolutely precious and extremely interesting. Can't wait to see it!

Étrange Shenanigans

Ahh, so... I'm sure it won't come as a surprise to anyone that I was extremely pleased with the Sabres taking care of bizznazz and beating the Shrangers...largely in part to one Mistah Patrick Kaleta, with his multi-goal game, a shorthanded goal to boot! There's nothing better than scoring a shorthanded goal, the best momentum killer out there. Seems like Kaleta liked the way it felt to score a shorty, so he decided to give it a whirl in Montreal...

I missed most of the Habs game, but I was able to listen to the end of the 2nd period in my car while driving home. I got to hear RJ call the our first two goals, which of course included Kaleta's shorty...ahh, I couldn't think of many things that could have satisfied me more than listening to Rick Jeanneret call a shorthanded goal against Montreal, IN Montreal, scored by one of our Buffalo natives. Magnifique. I went pretty crazy in my car, screaming and cheering and doing some fist pumping. I contemplated honking my horn in celebration, but I opted against it because the weather was pretty bad, and I didn't want to startle anyone on the road causing them to swerve and crash into a ditch or something of that nature. It would have put a damper on Kaleta's goal, no? But if it would have been the Goose that had scored, well my fellow drivers would have been shit out of luck. Because everyone knows if you're out and about, you have to give a honk for the Goose!

Anyways, I came home in time to catch the third period...and it certainly was a bizarre period, wasn't it. Leading 2-1 in a hockey game is never a safe lead, especially when you're up in Montreal's barn...phantom calls and bizarre events are always plentiful there. It certainly makes for interesting nights and often bitter losses. But Montreal's éntrange shenanigans were no match for the Sabres' sass Monday night. Non. The Sabres struggled to hang onto a lead, but thanks to MacArthur's PP goal on a 5-on-3 (a two-man advantage? To the OPPOSING team? In Montreal?! Surely you jest...), the Sabres were able to hang onto the 4-3 lead up until the buzzer sounded time keeper was busted for not starting the clock. Way to go, boyzzzz.

Now it's always fun to crack jokes and speculate...but seriously, why does that kind of sketchy shit always seem to happen in Montreal? That phantom too many men call against us is enough to shake your head at, but I've just come to expect that kind of stuff over the years. I know a lot of games can sometimes have certain issues with the clock, and sometimes they have to stop play to add or take off a few seconds here and there... But in the dying seconds of the third period when the Habs are down by a goal, and up on a 6-on-4 power play with the goalie pulled, and there just so happens to be an issue with starting the clock back up again? Hmmm....interesting to say the least.

Anyways... off to Ottawa. Miller will be in net again, but Ruff has announced that Lalime will start either Friday against the Leafs or Saturday against the Penguins, per WGR 550. I'm guessing Lalime will play on Friday. They're both home games, so that isn't a factor. But maybe Ruff liked starting Lalime during the beginning of back-to-backs, rather than the latter like he did last Friday against the 'Hawks. In theory, the team will be more tired on Saturday since they would have played the night before plus it's another 3-games-in-4-nights scenario, so maybe Ruff is thinking that he would rather have our starter in for that one. Plus it means less time between Lalime's last start, which means he could be getting himself into a little groove. Who knows... all I know it's pretty hard to argue with the results from the last time Lindy started Lalime during the beginning of back-to-backs.

Tomorrow night is huge for us not only because it's another divisional game, but for some damn pride. Our rivalry with Ottawa has been strengthened over the past few years, and that team always seems to have our number. Gotta get that win... And it looks as though Shottawa will be without the services of Jason Spezza for quite some time due to a knee injury. See kids? Christmas miracles do come true! I guess I should feel bad for calling someone's misfortune like an injury a Christmas miracle, but I don't. Guess that goes to show you much I loathe the Sens...just comes with the territory.

Speaking of Christmas, this time of year is just pretty crazy. Between Christmas shopping and preparing for and taking final exams, things can just be a little stressful. I think I can get my shopping finished in one or two more trips, it's just been hard finding the time. But thankfully I'll be getting more time to do that since exam week is almost done. Thank god. The only things I've got left to do is turn in a portfolio tomorrow and then I have my Art History final on Thursday and then the 2009 Fall Semester will officially be in the books. And I think that might be the greatest Christmas present for me this year...for real.

Oh! Look what I found earlier when I was getting out some Christmas decorations. This newspaper was being used to protect some of the decorations:



The date on the paper is January 1st, 2006... Ahh, ~precious memories~

Three Cheers for Patty!

Awww here it goes...

Well that was a fun game to be a part of... I have to say I was genuinely surprised to hear Patrick Kane receive so many boo's from the Buffalo crowd. I really wasn't expecting it. I was pretty sure that Soupy was going to get booed, but I didn't think Buffalonians felt so strongly about Kane's lousy tipping and cabbie pummeling. Or maybe they were just booing because he's one of those superstars, and sometimes fans feel obliged to boo other team's superstars. Eh, whateves. I just thought it was interesting. I was sort of sad to see Campbell get booed, although I was pretty sure it was going to happen. I just thought it was pretty cute when he asked fans to not boo him...oh well. A guy sitting near me was like, "Aw come on! He's a good guy!" My sentiments exactly, guy sitting near me. My sentiments exactly.

Anyways... my friend Phil and I were saying how Lalime must have taken some extra sass pointers from Miller, because boy was he SASSY tonight. Making 39 saves against the offensively charged Chicago Blackhawks. Verrry nice. It also seemed as though Patrick Kane took some pointers from Brian Campbell as he tried the fancy schmancy spin-o-rama a few times during the game, but he was d-e-n-i-e-d. Saaah sad.

The Sabres took a few penalties in the beginning of the game to allow the Blackhawks to pepper Lalime with several shots, but the Sabres did a good job killing off the penalty and they were up 2 goals going into the third period. I knew that the Blackhawks would come out hard and they scored within the first minute of the third period, but after that Lalime and the rest of the boys were there to hold down fort to secure a 2-1 victory. Also, kudos to the Blackhawks for taking an inopportune penalty during the final minute and a half of the game...thanks a lot, guys! We owe you one.

When I was leaving the game there was some Blackhawks fan bitching about her team losing. She was saying some nonsense on how the Blackhawks played the better game because they had more shots on goal than the Sabres. Then some guy said, "Yeah...well we had more shots IN goal." Zingggg! She must have been in a bad mood because she had a stupid little temporary tattoo of the Blackhawks logo right underneath her eye that looked like an unfortunate birth mark. What a shame.

So onto New York tomorrow... I just hope the Sabres put forth a better effort than they did the last time they played the disgusting Rangers. I know it's the latter end to back-to-backs and it's another 3 games in 4 nights scenario, but the Sabres must be feeling pretty good about themselves right now after tonight's game, plus Miller is coming off a shutout and he got a nice break tonight. SO. I'm expecting a better performance out of them...please let that be the case because it's an extra stab in my heart when the Sabres lose to the Rangers because I hate them so.

Oh and I'd just like to give my condolences to the Grier family for their loss. When I heard that Mike left the Sabres to be with his ill mother I had a feeling that things probably weren't looking good, but I was hoping for the best and that she would recover from whatever illness she had. Unfortunately that wasn't the case and I was extremely saddened when the announcer at the arena told us to give a moment of silence because of her passing. My thoughts are with the Grier family and I wish them all the strength that they need to get through such a difficult time.

Risking My Life For Pants

So I pratically risked my life today attempting to go shopping for a pair of pants and some jeans, due to the crazy whiteout conditions. Granted, when I pulled out of my driveway the winds weren't gusting, but as soon as we were on the 219 and the 90 it was pretty scary...needless to say I didn't attempt to go any further and we turned around to go home.

I guess it's a stay-at-home-and-blog-about-your-favorite-hockey-team kind of day, wouldn't you say? Let's get to it...

The Devils and the Rangers games were frustrating, and it's those kind of games that seemed to have been pretty familiar for Sabres fans over the past few seasons. Luckily we've been seeing less of those "clunkers", but I think whenever those kind of games happen, some fans can be hasty to make quick judgements about how this is the same old team with the same problems that will keep us out of the postseason. I guess it's understandable after two straight seasons of missing the playoffs, but sometimes I can't help but laugh at some people's reactions after bad games. It's an 82-game season, and as much as we'd want our Sabres to go without any of those clunkers...they're going to happen. I just wish one of those games wasn't against the disgusting New York Rangers...have I mentioned on here how much I loathe the Rangers? My friend works at Guess at the Galleria and he said a bunch of them were shopping there before the game and were acting like a bunch of divas...surprising!

Anywayssss... Last night's game had a little something for everyone. I was happy when Montador scored because I took care of him at work the other day and he was really nice to me so ever since then I've been rooting a little more for him, because who doesn't like nice people? I know I do. We had the little guy Nathan Gerbe score his first NHL goal, and who doesn't love watching someone get their first NHL goal? I know I do. We had Henrik Tallinder score an amazing end to end goal, and I've mentioned on here the last time he scored a goal how I'm always extra happy when Hank scores a goal because people were getting so down on him the past few seasons. And who doesn't like it when someone who had been underacheiving the past few seasons pick it up and score a goal? I know I do. And then there was Ryan Miller being his skillfull, sassy self and he made 35 saves and got himself another shutout. And who doesn't like shutouts? I know I do.

I also love this picture of Sabretooth bowing down to his greatnesss Ryan Miller:


Ah-mazingggg! <-- That was supposed to be in Kelly Kapoor's voice. If you don't who Kelly Kapoor is, then shame on you.

So I was supposed to volunteer tonight at Carly's Club Annual Holiday Party, but due to the crazy weather, it was rescheduled. Which got me thinking, I wonder if the weater is going to impact the Blackhawks game tomorrow. I wonder if the Blackhawks are in town yet? I'm going to the game tomorrow, and I will risk my life to be there....I mean if I risked my life to get a pair of pants today, then I know I'll risk my life to go to a Sabres-Blackhawks match up. It's the return of Soupy....and I really hope no one boos him. I thought it was so cute when he told fans not to boo him when he comes back. Awww, poor guy. I have a feeling he might get booed. :(

I also wonder if the weather is going to continue next week...because that's when all my finals are. Today was my last day of classes but I didn't go to any of them because of the weather. Hmmm...

Speaking of which, I should be spending tonight studying and working on my final projects. But I know I won't... I'm in the mood to watch a movie. Maybe Titanic... Yes, Titanic! When I was in NYC I went to a Titanic Artifact Exhibit and it was amazing... There was a replica of the grand staircase and my cousin and I got our picture on the staircase. If you're my friend on Facebook I posted it on there, but I haven't gotten around to posting it on my Flickr yet. I'll be sure to post that picture and the other pictures from NYC on here once I get them on Flickr.

I hope all of you Buffalonians out there (or anyone else who is dealing with the snow storm) stays safe tonight! And don't go out to get a new pair of pants...it's not worth it.

Sass & Class

Yesterday our precious jewel Ryan Miller displayed excellent sass and class and it's times like that when I'm reminded why he's my favorite player.

Miller made 38 saves last night en route to his 3rd shutout of the season. I missed the majority of the first period because for some reason I thought the game started at 7:30, not 7. Guess missing those three games in a row got me out of my rhythm of knowing when the games are on. From what I heard, apparently it took about 15 minutes until the Sabres found their feet, but from what I watched, the Sabres seemed to be keeping up with the Leafs and eventually they were outskating and outhustling them...and it looked like the Leafs were too tired and just started to give up. The Sabres had a lot of scoring chances and it seems that it's pretty hard to get that first goal, but once they do, it seems to get a bit easier for them. I'm always real happy when Kennedy scores because he seems to be a real smart player and it's nice to see him get rewarded by a goal. I think he's going to be a great player for us down the road, and it's exciting to watch him.

I was also glad to see Tallinder get a goal because I thought he played a real good game, and I've been impressed with him lately. I know we have a few scapegoats on our team that I don't even need to mention, and whether it's warrented or not, they have earned that title and it seems as though it takes awhile for fans to "forgive" them... I think Tallinder has really improved thus far in this season, but might not be getting a lot of credit from fans, since they all seem to remember is his poor play from previous seasons. I'm not saying he should be completely off the hook or that it's 100% sure that he's turned the corner, but I guess I'm saying that I'm glad he scored a goal.

My favorite part of the game other than the victory and Miller getting a shutout, is Miller being so classy for everyone to see... I think most Buffalonians are well aware that he's a class act and an overall good person, but I really liked how he acted when he accidently hit the camera man (or photographer?) in the face with a puck. He immediately skated over to see if he was alright, and then right after the buzzer sounded he went over and gave the guy his stick. How cute was that? Nice to know that he still had the guy in his thoughts even after he just got himself a shutout. It was cute when they showed Lalime smirking on the bench right after it happened, because the announcers were saying that in practice Lalime always tries to shoot the puck through the mousehole, but he never can.

So after Miller's sassy performance in the game, and his classy reaction to hitting the camera guy, I was ready to jump on my Miller 2012 Presidential Campaign again...anyone remember this?


Awww yeaaah. Get it, Ryan!

Speaking of our classy goalie, I know it's kind of last minute...but if you're in the Buffalo area, Ryan is going to be at New Era flagship store on Delaware tonight from 5-6 pm signing Steadfast Foundation hats for anyone who purchases one. Obviously proceeds go towards the foundation, so if you're in the area around that time you should stop in...I'm interested to see what the hats look like. I won't be able to make it out because I have class, unfortunately.

I would skip class but this is a class that I have skipped for the past 3 weeks, I kid you not. Honestly, I have roughly a week and a half of classes until the semester ends, and I really have no motivation to go to any of them. I skipped my classes yesterday, and I'm currently blowing off my Art History class. Can't we just fast foward a few weeks and pretend that it happened?

Back to Buff

So I'm back from my little rendezvous in NYC, which was a lot of fun. I had a great time and it was nice to get a little break from my normal, every day life and just have a little getaway with my cousins. It came from the expense of missing THREE Sabres games in a row. Three whole games. I really can't remember the last time I missed three games in a row. Due to work and other commitments, I have missed a game here and there, and most of the times I watch it on DVR, or I just don't get around to it. But three games? In a row? Preposterous.

Fortunately, my parents and my younger brother were sending me text updates for all the games so at least I was "in the know". It was sort of frustrating though when my dad would text me things like, "Rivet and Gaustad are both injured." or, "Miller is playing SPECTACULAR!" and I wasn't there to see all of the buzz. But I can't complain too much, because I was having a great time in NYC while all this was happening, so I guess some sacrifices had to be made.

I also saw a Sabres fan in SoHo (not the bar on Chippewa, the neighborhood in downtown Manhatten), while the Sabres were taking on the Flyers. He was wearing a New Era Sabres cap and I shouted, "Go Sabres!" to him and gave him a high five...it was pretty awesome.

So now that I'm home I'm trying to get caught up on all the buzz that I missed when I was gone... apparently we're not worthy of Ryan Miller, Tiger Woods lately has a problem with his driving (but not his putting, a-thank you...), and a couple decided to crash a party at the White House... am I missing anything?

Glad the Sabres play tonight so I can get right back on track and watch them again.

This Worries Me

3 games in a row...





Carry on.

Weekend of Sass

So the Sabres had a very successful weekend, winning back-to-backs (I'm not even joking!) and snagging all 4 points! The days just seem to go by a lot easier when the Sabres are winning, don't you agree?

I attended the game on Friday against the Flames, and it was definitely a treat... Shootouts are always pretty thrilling but they're just a little too nervewracking for my liking. They literally make me bite my nails while I'm present during one, and my heart is pounding out of my chest. But when you look back in perspective after your team has won, you can say, "Shootouts are great! They're so exciting!" but as it's taking place I just keep saying to myself, "I HATE THESE THINGS. We shouldn't have let it get to this!"

Miller was his badass self (speaking of which, Ryan is a STAR this week!) and helped lead us to a victory, both in the shootout and in the second period when it took the Sabres FOREVER to finally register a shot on goal. But despite that, I liked the way the Sabres looked against the Flames all night and I was enjoying all the fights.

Plus Gumby and a watermelon were in attendence so I could tell that I was in for a good night. I also got my picture taken with Sabretooth. After years of being a Sabres fan, it finally dawned on me this year that I don't have a single picture with the big mascot himself. So I decided to change that last Friday. It was a pretty exhilarating moment, and you can tell by my expression in the picture.

Anyways, I took some nice pics from the game, as usual I post my favorite ones, but you can look at the whole batch on my Flickr. Onto las fotografías...

First up, me with the big guy himself:




Miller doing his pre-game meditation thing...


Patty K


Miller again


FAIL

Andddd last but not least:



Those two were pretty funny the whole game. And afterwards when everyone was leaving, I saw them trying to get into all the fancy limos parked on the street...it was pretty comical.


Anyways, looking forward to Wednesday and the weekend. I'll be in NYC next week so I'm not sure how many games I'm going to be missing...hopefully the Sabres find a way to carry on and win without me. I'm looking forward to a little change of scenery and getting away with a little bit, school has been pretty stressful for me because I'm registering for classes for next semester and I always find a way to make that as complicated as possible for me. Plus I'm still trying to get through this semester...luckily it's nearing its end. I'm missing the game on Friday because I'll be working an 11 hour shift... should make for an interesting (and long) day. Speaking of work, there was a little Sabres party yesterday. Well not really. But Drew Stafford, Derek Roy, Clarke MacArthur, and Chris Butler were all on a little group date together. It was pretty cute.

Brrrr!

It's a cold day, bitches! Ahh yes, and here I thought it was only a myth that the Sabres could win back-to-backs...

Tonight was pretty awesome, but was not without the ups and downs of a hockey game. A bb Sabre scored his first NHL goal, Ryan Miller continues to be LIKE A BOSS (that was for you, Phil), the Goose continues to honk, Patrick Kaleta shows that he has hockey skillz, and Chris Pronger looks like a big toe.


dream team

I'll post a recap of the Flames-Sabres game later... I had an amazing time and I got my picture with Sabretooth! I also took some pretty awesome pictures because I was cool and I remembered to bring the correct lens to the game with me. Until then...

LET'S GO BUFF-A-LO!

Catwalk for Charity IV Recap!

My, my, my...what a night! I've got tons of great pictures and videos to share with you all... and some pretty funny stories as well. Let's get on it...

I'm kind of weird and I always get so nervous before every Catwalk...just because it's such a big event for me, being such a big Sabres fan. I'm a pretty reserved person by nature, so as much as I love to converse and socialize with people, I still get nervous around the Sabres. So I took some advice from my soon to be 16-year-old brother and had "some of that liquid courage", as he put it, and I had a glass of wine beforehand.

So I get to the Town Ballroom and everyone is all decked out in 50s attire...everyone looked so cute. I made sure to talk to Ryan, and I forgot how much of a lightweight I am...I was only on my second glass of wine and I was, how do you put it, maybe a little too friendly with Ryan. He's such a nice guy though, so he put up with me. Anyways, I told him how I went to The Refinery in East Lansing over the summer and how I was really impressed with the town and all that... we made small talk and I got my picture taken with him. It was funny because it was so early in the night and someone stumbled by and dropped their beer bottle and it made a real loud noise and Ryan shook his head and said, "Wow...already?" to Lalime (I think), who was standing by. Then the woman who was walking around with the golden retriever puppy went up to us and Ryan started holding the puppy so I had to get a picture! It was pretty cute.

Then I remembered that I was a woman on a mission... I forgot that I was on a quest to find out why Ryan got rid of his blog. So as he walked away I was like, "RYAN WAIT...I have a question." and I asked him why he deleted it. And he said, "Because we didn't win shit when I had it." I was like, "Yaa well...it was was so good!" I think he said something along the lines of that he didn't think it was a good place for him to clear his mind or something...I can't really recall. I asked him if maybe he would consider blogging after the Olympics and he was like, "We'll see how I feel." Maybe when the Sabres start winning shit he'll reconsider and join the blogosphere again...let's hope because his blog was golden.

We were standing right by the photobooth and I remember last year I wanted to get pictures with Ryan in the photobooth, but he was being bombarded by fans asking him to and he kept saying, "Okay, but this is the last one..." and then like 5 other people would go up and ask...sooo last year I didn't want to bother him because he was being nice even though he had to be up onstage. So this year I decided to jump on the opportunity before he had to be somewhere and before everyone wanted a piece of him. So being the nice guy that he is he went in the photobooth with me! I remember apologizing... I was like, "Sorry I'm not normally like this..." and he smiled and was like, "You're fine." I just felt like I was being so naggy haha...but I couldn't help it. Catwalk for Charity is sort of like my time where I can socialize and talk to him and the rest of the players. Plus when else am I going to get the chance to get photobooth pics with Ryan Miller. Answer me that.

Right before the auction, Rick Jeanneret and Harry Neale came onto the stage and RJ was dressed in drag as a 1950s sock hop girl hahaha. It was a sight to see... My friend Michele won the bidding to have a wine tasting party with Ryan and the Goose...she told me that I could get in on that, so I'm pretty stoked for that. The fashion show, as always, was extremely entertaining and I took some videos of it. The players really seem to enjoy themselves on the catwalk and it's always awesome to watch the guys have fun.

After the fashion show I saw Ryan again and he was like, "Hey Caroline." and then I was like, "You're so precious!" and I hugged him and that liquid courage went into overdrive and I stood up on my tip toes and gave him a kiss on the cheek and then I kissed his hands. Jesus christ...poor Ryan hahahaha. It's so out of character for me, I can't believe I did that. I'm pretty sure I told him that I love when he has facial hair too... Good god, I'm sure Ryan is so used to being bothered by annoying girls, I just never wanted to fall into that category haha. Still shaking my head when I think about what I did haha.

Alright so now I saved the best story for last... Toward the end of the night I saw Tyler Myers and I went up to him and asked him if he remembered when he came into where I work and I told him how I thought his goal was sick. Then he goes, "Yeah I remember! I read it on your blog too!" and I was like, "You read my blog?!" and he said, "Yeah my dad sent me the link!" I was pretty floored when he said that. So if you happen to be reading right now, HI TYLER!

I was a little bummed that Mike Grier didn't really mingle around like the rest of the players so I never got a chance to talk to him... And Drew Stafford kept trying to convince me that some really tall dude was Tyler Myers. Tamara also told me that Stafford and Connolly bid 20 cents on the Patrick Kane jersey which is absolutely amazing. Pretty much made my day when she told me about it this morning.

I'm sure I'm leaving out a lot of stuff but that's all I can remember right now...and I don't want to keep you waiting for my pictures! Here is a link to my Flickr with all the pictures, and here are some of my favorites...

First up...my annual photo of me with Ryan:



Photobooth fun:


His smile couldn't conceal the bewildered look in his eyes...

The Gooooose




nice midriff...


I just love this picture!



Aaaaand...last but not least:



Hell yes. I also have videos up on YouTube. They aren't titled yet...but most of them are of the players strutting down the Catwalk. I got a video of RJ and Harry too when Rick was in drag, make sure to check that out as well.

Not Amused

It will be a cold day in hell when the Sabres can win back-to-backs.

"What's Gotten Into Marty Tonight?!"

Oooh, RJ...you always know how to make me chuckle. Seriously though, I was thoroughly enjoying Marty's cranky mood last night. It was pretty obvious he was in no mood to deal with Kaleta's shenanigans. I think they should just always keep a person like Marty mic'd up, because I really would liked to have known what he was saying to Kaleta when the two were hugging, dancing, or whatever you want to call it.

I also liked how Miller said in his post-game inteview that he'd be too busy laughing to be able to throw a punch in on Marty if they were ever to fight. There are few things I love more in this world than a goalie fight...and one of these days I'd like to see Ryan mix it up, despite him being reluctant to just because he's a skinny guy. But a Marty-Miller match up would just be hilarious...and it will probably never happen. I am confident when I say that I think Ryan would do some damage to his opponent regardless of his stature, just because we all know how crazy scary he can get when he's pissed off.



The best part of this picture is the reaction on the crowd's faces.

Anyways...I don't have much to say about last night's win...other than I'm just really liking how the Sabres react after a loss. Granted, they've only lost twice in regulation so far, and while no one wants to see them lose, in an 82-game season, it's going to happen. What I'm more interested in is how the team reacts to a loss, and so far it's been pretty reassuring.

It's another big weekend for the Sabres as they will take on the tough Philadelphia Flyers and another division rival, the Boston Bruins. What will be interesting is to see Enroth...Lindy hinted that he'll most likely see playing time this weekend if Lalime is still out. And with another 3 games in 4 nights scenario, it would be best to give Ryan a break. So far Enroth has been struggling in Portland, so it'll be interesting to see how he and the rest of the team fairs with him in net. Oh, and they better play "My name is Jonas" by Weezer in the beginning of the game, should he start against Philly...or whenever his first home game start should be. It just has to happen, ok.

OH and before I forget...I finally took some pics of myself in the dress that I'm wearing to Catwalk for Charity this Sunday. Ch-ch-check it out:







Sooo naturally I'm pretty damn excited for Sunday...I'm getting my hair done to complete the Marilyn transformation. Here is what the original dress looks like, incase you don't remember.

Ahh...so Ryan Miller gets a shutout, the Goose scores, Marty decides to go all berserk on us for a little bit, and I'm going to be getting my Marilyn on with some Buffalo Sabres on Sunday. All is well.

Golly...

I had no idea that our little Jason Pominville was about to become a dad! You learn something new every day...



Not really sure why I ever would have known that, but it was still surprising for me to read that he and his wife have just welcomed a baby. I've said this several times on here before, but despite the fact that all the players on the team are older than I am (except for you, bb Tyler Myers), it's almost as if I've watched our core guys grow up in a sense. All the way from when they were just prospects in Rochacha, then seeing them flourish in the big leagues, and watching some ups and downs... And now they're getting married becoming daddies...cah-razzyyy!

Anyways, a big congratulations to Mr. Jason Pominville and his wife on their newest addition to the population of Pominville (that one was for you, Lindy).

Sloppy Mess

Chippewa might quite possibly be the most ridiculous place to be on Halloween.

That is all.

Miller Time

I don't know how many times I've used the phrase "Miller Time" as my title, but I'm sure there will be a lot more times when I use it in the future considering Ryan Miller is such an important part of the Sabres coupled with the fact that I'm quite partial to him...if you haven't caught on by now. It's a pretty sublte admiration, I know...

I know it's early in the season but I've been so proud of Ryan and how he has been playing so far. A lot of people have been saying that they've been blown away by his performances so far, but I have to say that I'm not...maybe it was me being a little biased, but I expected him to come in this season and play the way he has been. Just because I know when Ryan says something, I can take his word for it...he knows how to back up whatever he says, which is pretty refreshing since we all know that talk is cheap. Whenever he plays a disapointing game, I'm always confident in him that he'll be able to bounce back. When he says he's going to focus on certain things in the offseason to ensure that he can compete amongst the elite goaltenders in the league, I know he's right.

And I don't want to turn this into a "I told you so" post, but I wish I could personally thank Miller because he's been proving me right to a lot of people I know who were doubting him and saying that I was just being a biased fan. Many people have said that I'm just too biased to think with a level head and to realize that he's not as good as I'm making him out to be. Au contraire, my little ones. I'm a pretty humble person by nature, so I don't like being blatant about it and saying "TOLD YAAA" but lately there's been a few of my friends that I've just had to sit back and say, "Sooo....Ryan Miller hasn't been too shabby, eh?" It's a nice feeling...

Anyways, I know it's still early in the season to be proclaiming Miller our messiah, but whenever I'm given the opportunity to have myself a Ryan Miller lovefest, I jump on the occassion. And I still think that he deserves credit for his performances despite the fact that we're only about a month into the season.

Speaking of which...link time! Here is a nice round up of some Ryan Miller lovin' floating around the internet:

- WGR 550 has an interview up with Ryan from a few days ago when he appeared on the Howard Simon Show. Ryan talks about the season so far, Catwalk for Charity...and he shares a cute story about Halloween from several years ago.

- NHL.com has a story talking about how Miller looks Olympic-ready. There's also a quote from Martin Brodeur where he talks about being impressed with Miller...pretty nice! I also like Ryan's sassy quote that reads, "That level should be good enough to make the U.S. Olympic team because I consider myself the kind of goalie who can challenge to be tops in the League. If that's not what they're looking for, then OK." Gotta love it...

- Buffalo.com has a video interview up with Ryan discussing Catwalk for Charity. I like how Ryan points out that it's a great chance for fans to get more up close and personal with the players and be sociable with them. This makes me feel better because there's always a small part of me that thinks I'm being a nuisance when I go up and talk to the players at Catwalk. Whenever I see them out and about and away from the arena, I always try to leave them alone just because I think they deserve their privacy and they don't need to be bothered by fans 24/7, but at Catwalk it's a good time to socialize with them and it's fun for me.

I'd also like to add that I was loving the sassy side of Miller coming out again in last night's post-game interview when he talked about the refs not calling any diving penalties. I know the players and the coaches aren't supposed to criticize the officiating or they can get fined, but it was pretty badass of Ryan to say something... I also liked Harry Neale's comments when he said that the Leafs player should find a job in Hollywood since he did such a good job with the embellishment.

And this concludes my Ryan Miller lovefest...I'm sure there will be plenty more in the future, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did...

Oh, and I must not forget the ~official seal~




Hope everyone has a fun Halloween!

My Blog is a Year Old Today!

One year ago today, I decided to join the blogosphere! It really doesn't feel like a year, but you know how much time flies when you're blogging about your favorite sports team.

My very first post was me introducing myself of course, and I also told my story about how my favorite wonky eyebrowed goalie cut ahead of me and accidently took my roast turkey sandwich...but I let it slide. He was on a bro date with Andrew Peters...who knew that a year later those two would be playing against each other now that Petey is a Devil (ETA: except Petey will only be on the ice in spirit, as I have just discovered he is a scratch tonight). And who knew that I'd still be blogging about it.

I don't really want to get all sentimental here, but I just want to say that I appreciate all the people who read my blog. I never really thought I'd have a "following", I just figured it would be fun to give blogging a shot since I enjoy reading so many. But I love when people leave me comments or send me e-mails telling me that they like reading what I have to say. So here's to many more years of me blogging about (hopefully) successful Sabres' seasons!

...

Steadfast Foundation's website put up a link of some of the neat auction items that will be featured at this year's Catwalk for Charity. I think I'm partial to the one that has Ryan Miller and Paul Gaustad playing bartenders to a private party at the bar Aroma for TWO Happy Hours...I can only imagine the fun that will arise from that. The one where you can have one-on-one photoshoot with Ryan in his crease is pretty fancyyyyy too.... They always have the coolest auction items. What are your favorites?

I can't believe that Catwalk is pratically a week away...I'm pretty stoked but I just keep forgetting that it's so close! Usually I have a few months to build up anticipation, but it's just around the corner! I already have my dress, which I should post on here because I LOVE IT. I keep trying it on just because I love it so much.

Story Time!

Yesterday at work I saw a blonde dude who was about 9 feet tall walking up to me. Although he was too far away to make out his facial features...I just knew. "That's gotta be Tyler Myers..." I said to my co-worker. And it sure enough, it was.

Now quite a few Sabres and Bills come into where I work and I usually don't say anything except for, "Have a good season!" or, "Good luck this season!" just because I don't want to bother them when they're outside of the rink/field. But I figure that giving them well wishes isn't too invasive, and I'd like to let them know that I appreciate what they do and that I'm a fan in some way without being too bothersome. But there are exceptions where I have to say something other than your generic "Good luck this season!!" Exceptions would be like, oh I don't know, scoring a sick goal in the shootout to secure a come-from-behind win...all the while being a 19-year-old kid playing in his 8th NHL game evaarrrr. So, naturally...I had to let him know all this, just incase he wasn't aware. It was the least I could do.

So before thinking of a way for me to act all smooth about it, I was just like, "TYLER! Your goal last night was SICK!!!" He got a kick out of that and laughed and said "Thanks." and then I just nodded and was like, "Yeah...I screamed when it happened."

So that was that. I figured he must have gotten a kick out of that considering he's so new to the big leagues but he's making such a huge impression so early on... Sorry Tyler, but you're just going to have to get used to crazy chicks harrassing you. It just comes with the territory. Ask the other players about it, they'll tell you. Welcome to Buffalo!!!

Why...

...is the NHL Network playing Game 7 of the 05-06 Eastern Conference Finals? Not cool. I caught a few seconds of it and it reminded me how amazing Miller is during the playoffs. I couldn't bear to watch the rest of the game...lots of great memories during that run, but lots of memories that I don't want to remember. But it did remind me how intense playoff atmosphere is. There's nothing quite like it. But that is neither here nor there, since it's only October. Playoffs?! Don't talk about playoffs...

So instead of watching the rest of that game, I decided to re-watch the highlights of last night's game against Tampa. I literally screamed when Myers scored that goal in the shootout. Who would've thought that game would end in such exciting fashion? I know I didn't. It was one of those games that you thought was going to end in frustration...but the final seconds of each period sure didn't disappoint.

I was also looking forward to this game because I think it's neat when Ryan gets to play against his brother, Drew. It's always fun to watch siblings compete against each other in professional sports. St. Petersburg Times also had a cute story about the Millers playing against each other, with quotes from both Ryan and Drew and their parents talking about ~childhood memories~.

And a big thanks to the Millers for sharing this precious photo with all of us:




Awww...they're just babies. :')

Holy Shit

Fuck yeaaaaaah, Tyler Myers!


Oh, and that game is in contention for being one of the worst officiated games in all of professional sports.

To The Max

I have to say that I was quite shocked that Maxim Afinogenov got booed last night. Both shocked and very disappointed. Rick Jeanneret said on WGR 550 before that game that he expected Max to get a warm welcome from the fans because Max had been a Sabre for so long. He said he wouldn't expect him to get quite as warm as a welcome as Marty did, just because everyone absolutely adored Marty, but he expected some sort of welcome nonetheless. So did I. When I heard the boos when Max touched the puck I was just really surprised and quite frankly it pissed me off. Everyone seemed to have a strong opinion on Max...but I would have thought that the fact that Max was a Sabre and a Buffalonian for 10 years would hold some sort of respect amongst fans... I'm not afraid to admit that I was a Max supporter while he was here but at the same time I also acknowledged his shortcomings and I realized that Max leaving the team would be beneficial for both Max and the Sabres. I wasn't expecting Max to re-sign with us and I was glad to see that he landed a job in Atlanta.

Over the past few seasons Max's production declined and many people got frustrated with him. It seemed as though Max needed a change of scenery, but while Max's production was extremely dissapointing, his effort surely wasn't. Max gave an honest effort every single night that he played. All he wanted to do was play hockey and help his team...and it was unfortunate for everyone that it didn't work out the way he intended it to. But regardless, Max worked his ass off every night. I'm sure everyone can recall a game where it seems as though all of our players just completely took the night off and let the other team win...and is there anything more frustrating than that? That's why I always respected Max...he never took nights off.

And while I am a Sabres fan through and through...as soon as I heard the boos from the crowd all I wanted was for Max to score a goal. It was strange for me because when Stafford scored with 3 minutes left in the game, it got me a little excited and I thought to myself, "Hey, maybe we can tie it up." But then when Max scored directly afterwords, I was just real happy for him. Poetic justice, if you will.

This quote from Max just made me sad...

"When I was here I tried to play for the fans," he said. "I appreciate them. They come to the games, and I try to put my best into the game. Hopefully, they still like me, and I love them, too."

Aw shucks, Max...well I still like you.

On a lighter note...the other day at work I helped Drew Stafford find his lost iPhone. I'm proud to report that it was successful.

Quotable

Not going to do a post game analysis of last night's game...we all knew that the Sabres were eventually going to lose a game in regulation. It will be interesting to see how the team reacts to the loss though...

The Buffalo News has an article talking about Miller being run this season, and how it's a little more sensitive around the locker room after Miller got taken out by Scott Gomez and he was out for over a month. It's a nice read and I like Gaustad's quotes saying how he's not going to tolerate players running into our goalie just because they are trying to change the momentum in their team's favor. Yeah seriously, fuck that noise. But this quote by our one and only Ryan Miller really takes the cake...

"I don't have Scott Gomez's picture up at my house, staring at it while I eat dinner, working up enough psychotic energy to go slash him in the throat. That's not the case."

Seriously, Ryan? Does he realize how quotable his words are? I hope he does. Pure gold. First he says that Mike Grier is his hero and now he's trying to deny that he doesn't have Scott Gomez's mug plastered up on his wall so he can think about getting sweet, sweet revenge. Okay, but doesn't that scenario just sound a little too specific to not be true? We all know how zen-like he can be, with him meditating before games and everything, but I think everyone is also familiar with his batshit crazy side...you know, the best side of Ryan Miller. I totally think Ryan wants to slash Scott Gomez in the throat. A little graphic, Ryan...but it's better that way.

Rockin' the Wingzzz

So Tuesday I went to my first Sabres game of the (regular) season and it was...well, it was pretty damn awesome. Just a few things I feel like I should mention...

Things that make me happy:

- Me sticking to my main decision about having the Wings game being my first game of the season...a lot of my friends tried to convince me to go to the home opener and forget about the Wings game, since the Sabres always lose to the Wings anyways...

- Being surrounded by cocky Wings fans during a 6-2 Sabres victory

- Patrick Kaleta's first multi-point game of his career.

- The Ellis-Gaustad-Kaleta line in general.

- Once again...Tyler Myers. Kaleta's goal was all thanks to Myers, watching him carry the puck into the zone like that was wonderful and I just had a feeling the Sabres were going to score on that play. Still can't believe that it was only his fourth NHL game.

- Vanek's injury isn't as serious as once believed, and he shouldn't be out for WEEKS (WEEKS!!) like Lindy once feared.

- The fact that Lindy has decided to keep the lines intact instead of shuffling them around despite the absence of Vanek...why mess with a good thing? I'm especially glad that means the Ellis-Gaustad-Kaleta line will remain. Mair replacing Vanek should be interesting to say the least.

- The guy sitting behind me at the game who kept saying funny remarks about Mike Grier every time he touched the puck.

- The little girl sitting behind me who exclaimed to her dad, "DAD!! Look how big that player is!!!!" when she first saw Tyler Myers on the ice.

- Annoying the hell out of my brother by chanting, "MILLER! MILLER! MILLER!" every 10 seconds while driving to the game and walking to the arena (I get excited, ok?)

- Me being able to chant, "MILLER! MILLER! MILLER!" after he stopped Filppula's penalty shot.

- Where The Wild Things Are comes out tomorrow!! I know you've all read the book, and the movie DOES NOT look like it's going to disappoint!

Things that kind of bum me out:

- I won't be able to watch the game tomorrow because I have to work :(. DVR delay just isn't the same, but I guess I'm going to have to make due. I'm going to get my hockey fix during the day by attending the open practice in the morning.

- I brought the wrong lens to the game yesterday, so my pictures are less than stellar. Despite the fact that I was sitting three rows from the glass. I tried to take some pictures but they all came out kind of "meh." It's a bummer because that's the only game this season where I'm going to be super close to the glass and I could have gotten some real nice shots of the players.

- I didn't turn up in any of the pictures on GettyImages.com...one of my favorite things about looking at pictures from sporting events is the looks on the spectator's faces. One day I wish to be captured in an unflattering way at Sabres game...it's a tough goal but I am determined to fulfill it.

- COLLEGE. Ahh...the stresses of being a college student. I'm in the process of switching majors and even possibly transferring schools and it's just stressing me out big time right now...I'm just trying to keep everything in perspective because if I don't I might give myself a heart attack. Just trying to get through this semester...

- The Fire Dick Jauron billboard on the 190... Look, I get just as upset over a terrible loss as the next Bills fan, but putting up a billboard that reads, "Fire Dick Jauron!" or whatever it's going to say is just tacky... Despite him not being the greatest coach in history, he's also a human being with a family and a life outside of his coaching job. Believe me, I'm sure Dick Jauron is well aware that he's not the most liked Buffalonian at the moment, and he doesn't need a huge billboard that calls for him to be fired to remind him of that. We're classier than that, Buffalo. Just mi dos centavos.

Things that just confuse the hell out of me:

- My professor's accent. I know it's not her fault that she's hard to understand, but it makes Art History so much more difficult when I can't understand what she is saying. And she gets cranky when people ask her to write something on the board more than once. She's all, "I alveady vrote da vord on da board lahst class..."

- SpongeBob and Sandy are getting married?! What the...I always thought SpongeBob was gay...

YAY!

So this is my first attempt ever at updating my blog while under the influence of alcohol...yes I am drunk. And yes tonitght I am very excited because my two favorite players had special nights...Mike Grier scored our only goal and my favorite wonky eyebrowed goalie Ryan Miller got a shutout...yep. That is my post game analysis. I also made a picture to express my feelings...I am impressed because I just made this even though I am pretty drunk. Photooshop and I are friends.




love yaaa boyz.

Let's hear what my favorite goalie had to say about my favorite forward:

"Mike Grier, you are my hero," Miller said.
How [precious...I agree wholeheartedly. Ryan Miller should have said, "I am my own hero too.Because I am awesome." Yes.

Quick Thoughts

As I was watching last night's game, I couldn't help but think to myself, "Here we go again...". It just seems all too familiar for me to be watching the Sabres get chance after chance, yet they fail to convert... The results usually end up with a frustrated squad and another tally in the "L" column. Those games that they let slip away and at the end of the season when they are 2 points out of a playoff spot you can't help but look back to those kind of games and shake your head. The games where the Sabres have all the chances in the world, but then the opposing team scores a goal and the team just gets completely deflated and that's the game...

But last night was different. Obviously I was very happy to see the team win last night...2 points is 2 points no matter how you look at it. But for me it was reassuring because it seems like those were the kind of games that the Sabres would lose last year. But the team didn't get frustrated and as soon as Phoenix scored, the Sabres wasted no time to tie the game up, and then they finally converted on the PP late in the game which proved to be the game-winner. They got it done. Now, let's move onto my favorite players of the game...there won't be any surprises here.

- Tyler Myers... He continues to blow me away. As exciting as it is to see him perfom, I'm trying to be level-headed and I keep reminding myself that he's only a kid and he's bound to have some serious gaffes out there that might lead for some of his supporters to turn on him...but as of now I am just loving watching him out there. I think he might be the real deal...it gets me real excited to not only imagine how he's going to turn out later in the season, but in the upcoming years. It was a pretty scary moment when he was lying on the ice after his assist on MacArthur's goal...good to know that he only got the wind knocked out of him. Welcome to the big leagues, Tyler.

- Mike Grier... Have I mentioned that I'm still pretty excited that he's back? Seriously...it's going to be the last game of the season and I'm still going to be like, "I'm just so glad that he's back!" Sometimes I need to tell myself to get a grip. I don't want to turn all fangirl on Mike, but watching him kill those penalties out there last night really isn't helping my cause. Makes me remember why he was my favorite Sabre before he departed. His presence out there is just what the team needs when its late in the game and things can get pretty chaotic out there in the dying seconds.

- Patrick freakin' Kaleta... He's just so good at what he does. The more he gets under people's skin the more I like him. He's that type of player that you hate but you would welcome with open arms if he were to ever join your team. I do find it laughable how many fans around the league can't stand him. I was browsing through some blogs and message boards and there were so many fans saying how that hit on Prucha was very dirty and he should be suspended. That's real cute...just goes to show you much he agitates people. Hey Prucha, keep your head up next time. Not only is he a great energy player that can fire a game up, but he draws a lot of penalties. Let's just hope he doesn't draw penalties in vain...although Vanek did score the game-winner on the PP, they were only 1 in 7 for the night. I think if they keep at it like they are they'll be just fine, though. The goals will come.

- Ryan Miller... You really didn't think I was going to make an entry and not mention mah main man, right? Seriously though...he had just as much of an impact on the game as the players that I mentioned above. While the Sabres were getting chance after chance but failing to convert, Miller did his part to keep the team in the game by making timely saves. He had about 4 or 5 huge saves that I can remember on the top of my head that shows that Miller is one of the best goaltenders in the league right now. I don't care what anyone says. People say I'm biased because he's my favorite player, but it's only a matter of time before the nay-sayers have to admit that the dude is one of the best. I'm real excited for him this year...it's going to be a big season for him. Can't wait. Now if he would only update his blog then he would be PERFECT. Just kidding...except not really.

I'm also liking what I'm seeing from Hecht so far...last year was a pretty tough year for him, and I know it's still extremely early in the season, but perhaps we'll be seeing a more solid season out of Jochen. LaBarbera was also excellent. It's so frustrating for fans to see your team have all these scoring opportunities but it doesn't show up on the scoreboard, but you have to give credit when the goaltender is playing his heart out. He had a great game.

Looking foward to Saturday...

Hockey Is Here!

Yes, I know it's hard to believe for some Sabres fans...but the NHL season is upon us. The home opener was such a tease; and it almost feels like it's the offseason all over again waiting for the next game. Luckily, Thursday is almost here... I'm anxiously awaiting to see how the players come out after a 5 day break. Let's hope they come out with as much fire as they did against the Habs, I have a feeling that they will.

The Sabres have a bit of a logjam now that Adam Mair has been cleared to play. Let's not forget about Toni Lydman who is still out with a hand injury, but he shouldn't be out for long. Mair returning would put the team over the roster limit, which means someone has to go, which has led to a lot of speculation amongst both the fans and the media. I've heard some people suggesting that we send Kennedy back down...while others are saying that Ellis might have to be waived. I honestly don't know what to think and it's times like this when I'm glad that I'm not in charge in making such decisions. I think having Kennedy up with the team will be more beneficial than having him sent back down to Portland, and I've always admired Ellis's work ethic and I truly think he's deserving of a spot with us... Lindy has recently both given Ellis and Kennedy praise to the media, so I really don't know what the decision is going to be. And once Lydman is ready to return, I think it's obvious that Myers isn't going anywhere yet. He played a hell of a game and got nothing but praise from both the coach and his teammates...I think they are just as eager to see how he does as us fans are.

Looking at the schedule, after tomorrow night's game, things will be in full swing again for the Sabres. Their schedule is pretty consistent for the first few months...they basically play every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday...I wonder if that consistency will be good for the team as they will develop some sort of rhythm. Maybe it will make them "gel" better, or maybe I don't know what the hell I'm talking about.

Tuesday, the 13th is my first game of the season and it's against Detroit...I'm pretty excited. I just love going to the arena for the first time for a game... I've already been to the arena several times this season to watch the players practice, but obviously it's a completely different atmosphere when you're there for a game. It's sort of funny how you go there during the day, and the atrium is eerily empty, and the only thing you can hear is the player's skating and shooting pucks off in the distance. You then go and watch the players practice and the arena is pretty empty...it's odd how small the arena seems when there's no one in there. Then you go later that night and the atrium is full of fans and there's energy and excitement buzzing everywhere you look. People donned in hockey jerseys, hawkers shouting for you to purchase game night programs, the little ding sound that the ticket scanners make when the ushers scan your tickets... You get to your seat and the arena just seems so huge when it's packed with fans. It feels like you were in a completely different building a few hours ago when you were there in the morning to watch the players practice. It's like night and day...okay well it literally is.

There is also a cause for concern that I feel like I should mention...not sure if I'm looking too much into this, but I was on Ryan Miller's website the other day, and I noticed that there's no link to his blog anymore. If you follow the direct link to his blog, it's still up, but why is there no link from his website to his blog anymore? This makes me a little concerned...I don't know about the rest of you, but I love his blog. It's both funny and really insightful, and it's one of the better "celebrity blogs" that I have read. I always got so excited when he updated it! I hope Ryan hasn't decided to hang up the blogger skates and give it up for good...he seemed to have a knack for it, even when his web editor would make him go back and edit his entry to ensure that he wasn't pissing off some of his fans. If he doesn't update it by the time Catwalk for Charity rolls around (which is soon, yesss!), then I might have to address this problem to the big guy himself...and ask him what the hell is up. I understand that he's a professional athlete and he's very busy with the condensed NHL schedule and the Olympics coming up and blah blah blah...but hey, I need my dose of sass and wit and Ryan's blog was perfect for that. I wonder if him partcipating in the Olympics has anything to do with it... I know some sports leagues are pretty strict with social networking sites such as blogs, Facebooks, Twitter, etc...and they prohibit players from using them during certain times on game days. I remember during the Summer Olympics, I was browsing through some of the athlete's websites and a lot of their blogs were taken down because the Olympics prohibited the athletes from keeping a blog while they were competiting. Either way...I hope this isn't an end to his lovely blog. Do it for the fans, Ryan!

I think I had something else to say but I got too wrapped up in my spiel about Ryan's blog being in limbo...

Hypocrisy At Its Finest

I should probably make an update about the Sabres game last night, considering this is a blog about the Buffalo Sabres and for the past few months I've been blogging about how I'm SO EXCITED for the season to start. I would probably mention how despite the overtime loss, I was pretty impressed with what I saw from the team. I would talk about how I thought Tyler Myers looked really good and I can't wait to see him in upcoming games. I would probably say that I was liking the way the Sabres seemed to be not putting up with any bullshit from the other team, and it seemed as though they were getting under the Habs' skin a lot... I would also comment on how I thought it was pretty shitty that we lost the game due to a sketchy goal and an unfortunate bounce, and how those flukey plays seem to be all too familiar for Sabres fans...

BUT that's not what this post is about at all. There are more pressing issues at hand. Guess what I did? I got a Twitter! Which means I am just a big hypocrite. I know I've at least mentioned it a few times on here how I thought that Twitter was a completely pointless sight and I just didn't "get it"...well, due to peer pressure I am now on Twitter. And to be honest...I still don't get it. All of these @'s, #'s, and RT's are confusing the hell out of me ok. But if you feel like you can bear with me being such a Twitter rookie, and you might actually be interested on what the hell is on my mind at any given moment, you should probably "follow" me. I've already added some of my favorite bloggers on there, so if a random person called "fly_as_hale" has recently added you on Twitter, that is moi. I'm not sure what's going to come out of my brand new Twitter account...seeing as I rarely update my status on Facebook, I've always assumed that if I ever had a Twitter account that it would be awfully neglected. Or, I might be one of those people who updates their Twitter accounts every 5 minutes... Let's all hope that it doesn't turn out to be the latter. I've also been known for being spontaneous at times, so maybe in a weeks time my Twitter account won't even exist and we can all forget that this ever happened. So for all of you Twittering folks out there, how about you recommend me some good Twitter accounts to follow? Both of the celebrity and non-celebrity variety.

And so, the Twitter experiement begins...

Oh, and can you guys believe that we have to wait until Thursday until the next Sabres game?! (Was that something that I should have said on my Twitter?)

It IS Time!

...that was supposed to emulate how Rafiki said "It is time!" in The Lion King. Does anyone know what I'm talking about? Anyone, anyone?

Okay, Moving on... SABRES HOCKEY STARTS TONIGHT! YAYAYAYAYAYA!!!! Insightful, amirite? It's the finaaaal countdown. Do do do dooooo, do do do do doooooo.

It's beyond exciting just thinking about the game tonight...the fact that we're going to be watching meaningful hockey again. I'm really looking forward to seeing what our new additons can do for our squad...especially Tyler Myers and Tim Kennedy. I hope Myers sees a lot of playing time, because I'm real anxious to see how fairs in the big league. He tore it up in the juniors last year and a lot of people have agreed that he's developed enough in the juniors and he's ready for the NHL. Only time will tell. It was easier for Lindy Ruff & co to make a decision on whether to keep Myers up or not due to Lydman's hand injury. I'm willing to bet that Myers will get his 9 game tryout and who knows what will happen from there. Will he go down to the juniors or is he going to remain a permanent member of the Sabres? Obviously it all depends on well he plays and how well our other defenseman perform. It's obvious that Tallinder really needs to step it up this season or else he's going to end up being traded...and I'm sure Myers is aware of that. Players are vying for spots and I hope it makes for some fun and exciting hockey.

I'm also extremely looking forward to seeing Grier back with us. He's one of my favorite players and I think everyone remembers how important he was during our great 05-06 run...I think his hard work and attitude will be influential for some of our young guys, and also for some of our not so young guys that still seem to act immature. I'm not naming names but I think we can all agree that certain diving, whining midgets with questionable fashion decisions players on our team really need to grow up...I wouldn't consider us a young team anymore even though we giving some of our young guys a crack at the roster. We've got plenty of players on this team who have seen both the ups and downs of a full NHL season and there's really no excuse for some of our guys to act so immature at times. So that's why I think it's great that Grier is back with us. I think other hard working players like Ellis, Montador, Kaleta, Gaustad, and Rivet to name a few will also be essential pieces to a successful season...

Anyways, I'm about to head off to the Sabres first open practice of the season...should be fun. I went to several of the training camp sessions which I thoroughly enjoyed...I've been there so much that the arena employees are starting to recognize me. Yes, I am a rink rat... I'm sure the practice this morning will be pretty crowded given that it's a Saturday and it's opening night.

Another important tidbit about the upcoming season that I know all of you are dying to know about...I'm pretty sure Miller is going back to his old mask this season. I mentioned it in a previous post that I heard that through the grapevine...and the other day the news showed some footage of the players practicing and Miller was wearing his old mask again and there are pictures from the morning practices showing Ryan sporting his old mask...


Oh hayyy!

He's got some new pads though...what do you think?


Prettaayy neat.

Speaking of our wonky goalie, it warmed my heart to see him being such a hardass full of wisdom about our team again...ohh it's been too long since we've been graced with his insight and sass. Sabres TV has an interview with Ryan up where Miller says how he's sick of talking about "accountability". (I also liked the part when the reporter said a metaphor about robbing a bank and Ryan was like, "What are you talking about...") He says that it's time for the players to just "shut up about it and do it." Couldn't have said it better myself... Well, maybe I can...

Caro sez...
"DROP THE PUCK ALREADY!!!"


My excitement from the Sabres-Leafs preseason game also represents my excitement for the start of the 2009-2010 season.

Surviving the ACC

You guys! I went to my first away Sabres game and I was pretty ambitious and I went all balls to the wall and decided to trek up to Shoronto (Toronto for all those non-Caroline language speakers out there) with Tamara to cheer on mah favorite hockey players. I figured it wouldn't be as dangerous as it was only preseason, and I can say that Tamara and I left pretty unscathed. Although we did see two fights...one was a bunch drunken Sabres and Leafs fans having your typical pushing match, but security was there to break them up. The other one was pretty shitty...some guy walking out of the arena in a Sabres jersey all by himself got jumped by some pathetic Leafs fan who couldn't hold his liquor or the fact that his starting goalie allowed 7 goals in a preseason game...I felt really bad for the Sabres fan who got dropkicked in the face but being a 5'3 female, I figured that I would probably do more harm than good if I had decided to intervene.

So anyways, the game was a lot of fun. As the alcohol and the goals started to flow, I got a little more comfortable cheering on our boys. When MacArthur scored the first goal, I tentatively stood up and let out a little, "Woo!", but after about the 3rd goal I was screaming and chanting "LET'S GO BUFFALO!" Even though it was only preseason, it was still a very exciting game and I was glad that the Sabres won so I could leave enemy territory without feeling like a jackass. I held my head up high in my Sabres jersey even though I got a lot of "Fuck yous" and "Buffalo sucks!" shouted at me. I was hoping the souvenier shop would have a t-shirt that said, "I survived a Sabres-Leafs game at the ACC and all I got was this lousy t-shirt", but to my dismay, no avail.

Anywayyysss...it was quite the barn-burner, but I was glad to see that our guys battled back and they didn't give up until the final second to secure a victory. I also thought Jochen Hecht played a good game, which is nice to see after such a disappointing season from him. After the game, Tamara and I bumped into a lovely man who was born and raised in Toronto but is a huge Sabres fan. He gushed about how much he loves Buffalo and the people, and how he loves the city of Toronto but he thinks the people are too uptight (hehe) and he went on talking about his first game at the Aud and the French Connection. I think he said it best: "How can you not love the Buffalo fucking Sabres?"

Sooo that was how I spent my Sunday and I had a lot of fun. It's definitely a different experience to cheer on your team when they're on the road...you instantly become friends with everyone who is wearing a Sabres jersey and you have to make sure you represent your team and your city with dignity and pride.

In other news...the season starts in FOUR DAYS!!!!!!!! I cannot believe it. After such a long offseason it's going to be so thrilling to see our boys out there competiting again. I have to say that I'm pretty optimistic about our additions to the team, but I've also said before that I'm always optimistic when the season rolls around just because I'm aching for hockey. We've got a lot of players who are trying to make a crack at the final roster so it'll be interesting to see how all of that shakes out...

Just wanted to comment on this... Maxim Afinogenov has signed with Atlanta. And Andrew Peters has signed with the Devils. I wish nothing but the best for the two players, and I hope they both have successful seasons with their new clubs.

And a little aside...I took care of Mike Weber at work the other day. I actually recognized him as being a member of the Sabres and it wasn't awkward like it was when I took care of Gerbe and I played the "Where do I know you from?" game. Yeah, it was a very smooth encounter, I sold him his ticket and I wished him good luck for the upcoming season and that was that!

Oh...and I also would like to inform everyone that I found a replica of Marilyn Monroe's dress that she wore in the movie Niagara. I came across it on eBay and I bid on it and won! I'm so ready for Catwalk for Charity!

Anyways, I'll end this post with the pictures that I took over the course of training camp and from my adventure at the ACC...if you're friends with me on Facebook, some of them are up on there as well, but all of them can be found my on my Flickr. Enjoy!










My two faves!

Preseason Is Underway

So my drawing teacher decided not to show up to class today, so it gives me a perfect chance to update... I also had to go to the camera store and buy film because I was sold the wrong film the last time and my pictures didn't develop right. I'm still kind of pissed off because I drove on 20A all the way out to the boonies to get some great shots of all the windmills in the cornfields...I was excited to see how the pictures turned out. Oh well...

Anyways, I've missed the last two preseason games due to a wedding I went to and work. But from talking to people and reading recaps, it sounds like some players were really impressive but our wins had a lot to do with our goalies really stepping up and keeping the team in the game. It's great to hear that our goalies seem to be sharp, I just hope the Sabres don't fall into that habit again where they don't show up for a good portion of the game and just rely on our goalies to make the saves until they finally wake up... but it's just preseason so I'm going to reserve judgement. A win is a win...even in preseason, right?

The boys are going to be strutting their sassy selves down the red carpet tonight before the game, I'm sure that will be amusing...can't wait for the pictures to turn up. Miller is going to be playing the full 60 minutes tonight, so I'm glad that I'll actually be able to watch this one...that is if I find a feed of the game online since the game is going to be blacked out for locals on the NHL Network. Cool. I've also heard through some people that Miller is going to go back to wearing his old mask once the season starts up again. I wonder if he'll whip out his new one on ~special ocassions~. I know I have this one octopus necklace that I've had for years and I never want to part with it! I also see really cool necklaces that I'm tempted to buy and I always say to myself, "I can take turns from my octopus necklace and this one..." but I know I'm fooling myself. I rarely ever go without wearing my octopus necklace.

Buffalo Sports Daily has an article up about Miller and how he's excited for the Olympics. In the beginning of the article it said that he was turning 30 in January, so I wrote saying that he doesn't turn 30 until next July...needless to say my comment has mysteriously disappeared and the article has been fixed...it's a miracle!!

Well, before I depart...I want to post some of my favorite recent top search queries, courtsey of Google Analytics...

"buffalo sabretooth costume"
Hey, if you figure out where to get one...let me know.

"gwen stefani fans in buffalo, ny"
hollaaa

"ryan miller took my sandwich"
You too? Join the club...

I am also amused at how many people search for shirtless/naked pictures of hockey players. And I'm also creeped out at how many people search for player's girlfriends, wives, siblings, children, and places of residence...

Rebels with a Cause...

More details about Catwalk for Charity IV have been released, along with these glorious pictures. Aww yeah...I just realized that my last three blog updates have consisted of amusing pictures of some of our favorite hockey players... (Speaking of which, the Team USA pictures that I posted earlier have made their way on HF Boards...and hilarity has ensued, and it's still going on. Check it out for yourself). Anyways, individual tickets for Catwalk go onsale October 12th. As most of you probably already know, it's 50s-themed this year, and the event is cleverly marqueed as "Rebels with a Cause"...get it? Like the James Dean movie, but they HAVE a cause because it's a fundraising event...yeah, I'm sure you needed me to explain it. I have to say that I approve of these pictures, and it should make for another entertaining night to see the guys all dressed up like these badass greasers...hellz yeaahhh. I also love the cars that took part in the photoshoot. Cars from the 50s just had a certain style to them that just screamed "cool". I remember a few years ago my dad's friend who collects cars picked me up in a 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville...I felt so awesome driving around in that baby.

So I'm pretty excited to dress up for this year's Catwalk...I know I have to get my Marilyn on and I WILL. I've already mentioned that I have a vintage 1950s cocktail dress that I am most likely going to wear, but wouldn't it be awesome if I could find a replica of this number?



It's from her film, Niagara, which was filmed in our very own backyard in Niagara Falls, Ontario. I would LOVE to find a replica of that dress somewhere online, but I also love my cocktail dress that I already own. Either way, I'm really excited to represent my lady. I wonder if I could get her famous walk down? Maybe after I have a few drinks in me, who knows what I could accomplish!

So I hope that everyone who is reading this who can, will attend. If my recap of last year's festivities won't convince you then I don't know what will...

So today between classes I went to training camp again and I stayed as long as I could for the scrimmage until I had to head back to Buff State for my good ol' drawing class (which was kind of a rewarding and frustrating class at the same time). I was pretty impressed with the turnout given that it was a weekday...more people started showing up towards the start of the scrimmage. I'm thinking about going to training camp tomorrow but that would mean that I would have to skip my Art History class... What say you? Art history or hockey? Hmm, such a difficult decision. I guess the Venus of Willendorf is just going to have to get by without me. When I left today, Team Khmylev was up 1-0, and from what I've read they won the scrimmage 2-0. Tomorrow I'll upload the pictures I took, I promise! The hockey will get a little more "serious" tomorrow when the Sabres play some preseason hockey against the Caps... even though it's only preseason I'm still excited. I'll get to hear Rick Jeanneret calling a game again. Plus, the regular season is only 17 days away now... Are you ready??



...looks like our captain is.