Sit-Ups And Stretching

I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow, which I'm trying to get in last minute shape for.  I know exercising vigorously for the next 24 hours won't help that much, but it will help me feel better about everything.  I already walk a lot on normal basis (at least 5,000-10,000 steps a day), but now I'm adding sit-ups and stretching to my routine.   

From everyone I've talked to, stretching is supposed to be part of every workout regiment, but I don't do it often because I don't have the time, and am self conscious doing it at the gym.  As for sit-ups, they're still a little tough for me (I can only do 20-25 at a time), but it's better than nothing, and much easier than push-ups.  These things are a small step in the right direction for my health, but its already done wonders for me, and looks like something that will stick around.  Hopefully I can keep it up.

MBTA Workers

For those of you who don't know or live in Boston, the MBTA is Massachusetts premier transportation system.  It has its shares of problems like anything, but most of the time, it gets the job done, which is a testament to the people who work for the company.  It sounds like it's an easy job, but it's not.  I know because one of my friend's worked for the MBTA part time, and you can tell it's not if you pay attention to how people interact with MBTA workers.  Sometimes they're nice, but often times, people are rude.

Since a decent majority of Massachusetts is like this, I shouldn't be surprised that people are often rude to MBTA workers, but it still bothers me to see drivers and others criticized or harassed.  For example, yesterday when I was on the bus, I saw people yelling at the bus driver loudly because he didn't leave on time.  You know why he didn't leave on time, because he wanted to let people on!  Like are you serious?!  Why are you getting mad over that?  I understand you people have real lives and places to be, but try to show some sympathy or understanding of the situation.  If you were one of those people trying to catch the bus, you wouldn't want the bus to leave if you were right there.

I understand the situation I'm recalling is just one experience, and can't speak for all MBTA workers, because I know there's no way all of them are nice.  My point is to just be courteous to people who are just trying to do their job, especially MBTA people who help so many people daily, which is not an easy thing to do.  Other people may not say it to you, but to all the hardworking MBTA workers, I want to say thank you.        

TMZ

Like any person, I can't help but pay attention to celebrities (especially since they're everywhere around us).  I can handle some talk about them, but I can't stand companies like TMZ, whose only goal is to talk about them constantly.  Their reporting and writing is terrible, and the people who work there seem like they have no lives at all, and should just be living in their parent's basements.  Maybe I'm being a bit harsh, but places like TMZ have no regard for other people, and sometimes don't even get their stories right.  They just want to break a story, and make lots of money, which is wrong and when I stop caring.  I know companies like TMZ will always exist since people are interested in celebrities, but there are other reliable sources, and better ways to use your time.     

Buying Yu-Gi-Oh Cards Again...

Recently, one of the longest streaks came to an end.  No, it wasn't Joe DiMaggio's 56 game hit streak, it was my streak of not ordering Yu-Gi-Oh cards online, which lasted a surprising 2 months.  I had been doing such a good job of not ordering cards, but once my friends started buying them again, I couldn't resist.  It's cost a few dollars, but I think it's well been worth it, especially since this time around, I'm wiser with my money, only buying a few cards at a time, and not going over my budget, which has helped a lot.  Since I'm into fusion cards, or any cards that can help my deck, the list of cards I've bought so far has been...

• Gaia The Dragon Champion
• Gatling Dragon
• Barrel Dragon
• Blowback Dragon
• 2 Future Fusions
• Paladin of White Dragon
• White Dragon Ritual 

I don't know what cards I'll buy next, or when I'll order again, but all I can say is that I'm excited about dueling again, which is good since I lost some interest in it a few months back.  Till then, all I can do is wait for the mail with excitement in my heart.

New King Fung Garden

Usually, I never talk about restaurants on this blog, but I couldn't not talk about this place, especially after today...

My friend Phu and I were in Boston's Chinatown to get dinner after a day of window-shopping, and walking through the rain.  Chinatown has a lot of places to eat, but there's only one place we love to go to consistently, and that place is New King Fung Garden.  I know the name sounds like a feng shui type of thing, but it's a restaurant, and it serves great, affordable food.  I had never heard of it before until my friend Phu took me there years ago, but ever since, we've made it one of our regular dining destinations whenever we're in Chinatown or just want to eat good food on the cheap.  Today was one of those days.

So we're walking in Chinatown, and we get to the location of the restaurant, when we walk in and see flowers on the outside, new tables, and people we've never seen before.  At first, I question if it's the same restaurant with just a different name, but my friend Phu realized it wasn't once he saw the food.  We were caught off guard by what we discovered, so we asked the people who are now at the current location if they knew where New King Fung Garden is?  They say they do, which is great, and give us directions, but that's where the day turns to frustration.  We followed the directions the people gave to us, yet we still got lost, and we walked around Chinatown for at least half an hour, but couldn't find it anywhere.  It was so disappointing, especially since we were both hungry and craving the place.  We didn't concede easily, but we eventually did for the day, going with our second option to eat, which was Sal's Pizza in Downtown Boston.  It was good, but it wasn't New King Fung Garden good with their giant scallion pancakes, real crab rangoons, etc.  But after the miserable day we had, I couldn't complain.

After reading this, I'm sure you're wondering why my friend and I would make such a fuss about one restaurant, especially in Chinatown where there are tons of places to eat?  I have several answers why that is the case.  One, the food at New King Fung Garden is affordable, delicious, and different than any other place I've been too.  Secondly, their service is good, and the ownership is family run.  Third, the place is a small business, so I always root for those places to succeed, especially in a place like Boston with the Back Bay and North End.  And lastly, I make a fuss about it because it's a place my friends and I can eat where we know what to expect.  That may not sound like a big deal, but since we're older, we've seen places we used to go to change, which has made it hard to find a new "place", but New King Fung Garden was one of those places, which is something that can't be replaced easily.  I know it the place isn't gone, but since my friend and I can't find it for now, like they say near the end of "Gone With The Wind", "Where shall we go?  What shall we do"?  Well, for now, I don't know, but we'll figure it out. 

Infomercials

When it's late at night like it is right now, the only thing on TV are repeats of shows and infomercials.  And while I enjoy repeats of TV shows, I can't stand infomercials!  Yes, some of their products are intriguing, and some of them even work (such as the Magic Bullet), but there are so many negatives to them.  First off, most products on infomercials don't work, or aren't what they seem, which I can tell from people who have ordered off them firsthand.  Secondly, they deceive people by saying 4 payments of $49.95, which sounds like you're saving money, but it's still $200.  Lastly, the products may seem trustworthy because of the people on them, but when you see the same person selling different products for different companies, just walk away.  You know you can't trust them because most likely, they're just being paid to use it.  I'm not saying this for everyone on infomercials, just for some of them.  And I'm not telling you not to buy from them, because I'm sure there are some products that work, but when it comes to buying something on TV or giving out information, a person should always be careful.

Finding Forrester

Finding Forrester (PG-13)

Grade: B+

• Directed by: Gus Vant Sant
• Produced by: Sean Connery and Laurence Mark
• Screenplay by: Mike Rich
• Starring: Sean Connery (William Forrester), Rob Brown (Jamal Wallace), F. Murray Abraham (Professor Robert Crawford), Anna Paquin (Claire), Busta Rhymes (Terrel), April Grace (Ms. Joyce)
• Cinematographer: Harris Savides
• Distributed by: Columbia Pictures
• Released: December 19, 2000
• Running Time: 136 minutes/2 hours and 16 minutes
• Language: English

 "Not exactly a soup question, now is it?"

-Jamal Wallace

To some, writing may just be words on a page, but to others who take it seriously, it's much more than that.  Writing can be the key to a person's future or their escape, which is the case with Jamal Wallace, the main character in the film "Finding Forrester".  The film may be simple with its presentation, and the plot may be something we've all seen before, but it's still touching for me, as an aspiring writer who has never been able to fit in with my surroundings well.

"Finding Forrester" begins with 16 year old Jamal Wallace being awakened by his mother to go play basketball with the friends he's grown up with his whole life.  He's so good that he breaks his friend's ankles on a daily basis.  But that's not the only thing that happens daily.  Jamal and his friends are constantly watched by a presence called "The Window' from an upstairs apartment.  No one knows who he is, but there are crazy stories going around about him.  Jamal's friends are scared, but he isn't, so he's dared to break into the apartment.  Problem is, that "The Window" finds him, and chases him off, causing Jamal to run and leave his book bag.  When he gets it back, we find out that he's really a writer at heart, not a baller, and "The Window" has more of a reputation than what Jamal's friend's say.  What happens from there helps jump start the film.   

The film's strength starts with the chemistry of the cast.  Sean Connery is a master and pro, but he gets along so well with newcomer Rob Brown, which I found particularly surprising, since I've seen so many young actors struggle with well-known actors, but Brown held up his demeanor well with Connery, and all the other cast members.  The film, with a mentor-student plot, is something familiar, especially when talking about Gus Vant Sant, but for me, it's reassuring since very few films like this can be made now without it being stale. 

Although I have my praise, there are a few minor things I thought took away from the film.  I liked most of the characters, but there were some, such as Claire that I thought served no purpose.  Sure, she's supposed to be the love interest of Jamal, but their time together is never expanded on, which I wanted to see out of her and other characters.  Also, the film felt like it dragged on, which may help for a film like this, but for someone who isn't patient, 136 minutes is a lot to ask for.  Lastly, I thought this film reminded me too much of "Good Will Hunting", which isn't a bad thing, but if you're director Gus Vant Sant, you should try to make two of your films as completely different as possible.  Otherwise, that seems like lazy film-making. 

In the end, "Finding Forrester" has more cons than pros, which may have you on the fence of seeing this film or not.  To me though, you should see this film because it accurately depicts life.  I'm not talking about how it depicts urban life.  I'm talking about how it shows the struggle young people have making decisions in life.  Whether or not they should leave their friends for a better life or whether or not they should follow their dreams?  These are all problems we must deal with eventually, and I think this film gives an honest depiction with it.  Along with that, since I'm an aspiring writer, it's nice to see a film about us that makes us seem human for once.  Everyone sometimes thinks writers are special people, but we're regular people just like everyone else trying to make it in the world.  We just talk and write more.  

Just Good Enough

I know the calender may not say 3 days have passed, or even occurred, but it's been 3 days if you count Monday.  Regardless, I've taken my final for my online class and have the results to boot.

I got a B on my final for my online class, which is fantastic considering how things were after my first quiz weeks back, when I got a C-.  I was so crushed because I felt as though I studied hard enough, and the questions weren't that difficult, yet I made stupid mistakes, such as not fully reading all the questions.  Despite how I felt, I was determined to do better, and it happened.  I got a B on my midterm, and an A- on my next quiz, but none of that would matter if I did bad on my final.  Luckily, it didn't happen.

Of course, I know it wasn't all luck that I did well.  Most of it is because of the hard work I put into studying.  It's just hard to give credit to myself because usually I fall so short of being just good enough (which is usually what a B is).  In the past, I've gotten C's or worse, so it feels satisfying to know I really accomplished this.  It's given me a self-esteem boost, and makes me think that whatever life is going to throw next at me, will be no problem as long as I believe in myself and work hard.  I know it's cliche to say that, but it's something I haven't really believed in myself until recently.  Hopefully, it pays off, but in many ways, it already has. 

These Next 3 Days

For the next 3 days, I will be attempting to study for final for my online class on Wednesday.  Because of that, I will have no time to blog about anything new.  Sorry for this break again, especially when I said I was back last week, but duty calls, and I think school counts as one of them.  Talk to you all again in a few days.

My Day In Maine

Maine is known for a few things around the globe; it's bright blue waters, it's fresh seafood, and for today, I saw first hand whether it was really worth the hype.  Now don't get me wrong, I didn't go to Maine just to see this firsthand.  I went to Maine because my eldest sister has always been one of those people who always wants to do family events together.  We had meant to do this trip for awhile, but other things always messed it up until now.  With a plan in motion, and everything coming to fruition, I went to Maine for the first time today, and came away happier than when I left.

The trip up to Maine was tiresome, but surprisingly, it felt longer than my trip to New Hampshire, which is closer to Boston.  My sisters and brother wanted to go to the beach, so we went to Orchard Hill Beach because it had a little bit of everything: beach, rides, games, food.  The beach was bigger than anything I had seen in Boston, and it was more crowded, meaning there were parts that were more disgusting, like the bathrooms.  Ugh, you have to pay 50 cents just to pee there.  What a ripoff!  Because I hated the beach, I wandered off with my sister until everyone was done swimming and tanning.  Afterward, we went on one ride there, called the Superstar, which spins people in moveable carts in mid-air.  The ride itself wasn't bad, but it was scary at times because of height, and the fact it didn't seem that safe.  My brother and I enjoyed the ride, but it's safe to say that my sisters were traumatized and we were done with rides for the day.

That one ride was tough, but we made up for it by spending a lot of time and money at the arcade there.  It was a bit childish, but because Boston doesn't have an arcade, and that's the only one around for miles, I didn't complain.  I used $7 and tried my hands at games like the crane machine and pinball, but didn't win anything.  One thing I was good at though was Skeeball and Whack-A-Alligator, so it wasn't all a complete failure.  My siblings and I won 350 tickets and tried to get my dad a souvenir with it, but we didn't have enough, so we just used the tickets on something we wanted, and bought him numerous souvenirs at the many gift shops they have there.

Maine had a lot of things I like compared to Boston so far, like an arcade and cheaper prices on items like DVDs, but where they really impressed me was the restaurants and shops they had there.  The restaurant we went to called The White Cap Grille wasn't our first choice because other places we wanted to go to were packed or closed, but the service was fantastic, and the food was great.  I didn't get seafood, which is Maine's staple, since it was too expensive, but I did pick some off my sibling's plate, which I enjoyed.  After eating a great meal there, we went to a popcorn store, toy store, and clothing store before heading home satisfied with everything we bought and experienced.

So all in all, I loved Maine and what it had to offer to me.  It will never be Boston because no place could be, but I would love to visit there again.  And since I've been there once, now I know what to expect.  

Appreciating The Friends I Have

Sometimes I think I don't appreciate what I have when it comes to certain things in life, such as the education I'm fortunate to have, the city I live in, or parents who support me (even though we come to head at times).  One thing I've always appreciated though is friendship.  Compared to the other things I listed, it may not seem as important, but to me, it's one of the most essential things in life.

Friends are important to me because of the history I have with some of them.  For some of them, I've known them for years, while others not so much, but that doesn't mean their friendship is any less.  If someone is a friend of mine, then that means we're friends, end of story, unless something changes.  Friends are also great because they're always willing to hang out and have fun, but at the same time, talk whenever the occasion calls for it, which I appreciate since I always need someone to vent too. 

So why talk about friends and how important and great they are?  Honestly, I think lately, I just realized that I missed so many of them because recently, some of my friends had to move to other states to start the next facets of their lives.  I'm happy for them, but sad at the same time they're gone, and I may soon be doing the same thing.  We only have one chance to be young, and have the free time we do, which is why I cherish the time I have with my friends now, because I know the life I currently live, won't always be what it is.  One thing I know for certain is, while my life will change as I get older, my few true friends won't, which is why I want to say thank you to them!  

Trayvon Martin Verdict

In my online class the past couple of weeks, some of the topics we've covered were racial bias against minorities and the death penalty.  On their own, they're very intriguing subjects, but added with the Trayvon Martin case, they're more than that.  In terms of this case, I'd be lying if I said I followed it much at all, because I find things like this so depressing and sad, but as more and more time passed, it couldn't be ignored.  The trial was what it was, and the verdict for George Zimmerman, the alleged murderer was not guilty, a decision almost everyone I know disagreed with. 

Some people say we're crazy to think the verdict was wrong, but I think we have a right too based on the evidence we know.  Although in my honest opinion, I think people are more upset because the outcome of the case would be different if the races were different.  If a Caucasian had died, than the person who shot him would have been guilty, but since it was an African American, then they got off for free.  I don't know if I agree with that since the race card is used so often, but it's hard to argue with it when you look at history and statistics.  They back it up.

Of course, for the present and now, while we remember George Zimmerman getting off, let's not forget about Trayvon Martin, the victim.  He was so young, and didn't deserve what happened to him.  Nobody does.  Cases like this make you put life in perspective, and while the verdict is in, I have a feeling we'll remember this case for a long time.  It will probably be my generation's biggest case like how O.J Simpson was for the others.  I don't know much about politics, but I know it's heartbreaking when justice isn't served.

MLB All-Star Break: Thoughts For All 30 Teams At The Break

With Major League Baseball's All-Star Game tonight, that means we've reached the halfway point of the season, which is hard to believe, since I still remember the first game of the season between the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers.  I love baseball, but like any sport, it can drag on at times, which is why I'm glad it's the All-Star break now, because now we can focus on the important stuff.  Games are more meaningful, records can/will be broken, and players can get traded for that late playoff push.  At the same time, I can look back on the first half of the season so far, which has been as exciting as ever.  Here's my thoughts for all 30 teams (based on current division leader standings).

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

• Boston Red Sox: Gotta love my hometown Sox.  After last season's debacle with Bobby Valentine as manager, they have surprised people by actually still being in contention.  Free agents like Shane Victorino and Johnny Gomes have been better than expected, and Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz are playing off the charts right now.  They still have issues with their pitching staff and bullpen, as Jon Lester and others have struggled, but I have a feeling they'll still be playing important games in September, which is more than I expected back in April.  GO SOX!
• Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays are a streaky team when it comes to offense.  Sometimes they hit, and other times they can't, but when they hit and pitch, they contend.  It's no different this year as Evan Longoria is playing at an MVP level, and the pitching staff is returning to their form.  I think they make the news sometimes for the wrong reasons (like Joe Maddon or one of their players complaining about something), but as a fan, you have to respect their team for their peskiness.
• Baltimore Orioles: Last year, the Orioles were the fluke of baseball in many analysts and fans eyes since they won so many close games, and didn't have any stars.  Well, this year, they're not winning many close games, but they definitely have stars.  They have Manny Machado, one of the best young players in the game, Chris "Orange Crush" Davis, Adam Jones, etc; the list goes on and on.  Along with that, they have one of the best in game managers in Buck Showalter, so even though the standings say they're in third place, I have no doubt they'll have changed spots before the season is over.
• New York Yankees: Out of all the teams that is probably happiest that the all-star break is here, I think the Yankees have to be the happiest because their team is a mess.  Free agents acquisitions like Vernon Wells and Travis Haftner were okay at the start of the season, but now they've returned to their pedestrian selves and struggled, which has been difficult for a team missing so many key players like Derek Jeter, Mark Texiera, etc.  To add onto their list of problems, Alex Rodriguez is appearing in the news for every bad reason imaginable, whether it's mouthing off or something drug related.  The Yankees should be worse, but because of Joe Girardi's managing, they aren't, so he deserves serious Manager of The Year consideration. 
• Toronto Blue Jays: The Blue Jays are the most disappointing team this season because they made all the moves to contend by making big splashes (i.e, R.A Dickey and Jose Reyes), but haven't played up to their potential.  Everyone has seemed to regress, and while they still score a lot, there's not many other positive things I can say about their team.  I love their jerseys though, and if everyone was healthy, they'd definitely be better than what they are.

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

• Detroit Tigers: There's no such thing as the perfect player, but Miguel Cabrera is certainly making a case for it.  Everything he does, he does well (even his fielding has improved).  I didn't think he could do better than last year, but he's on pace too.  Prince Fielder and him are doing their usual damage, but Max Scherzer has stepped up and taken the mantle as best pitcher of the team away from Justin Verlander.  They're in first place now, but have so many pitching issues, that I see it being a problem unless they make a deal at the trade deadline, or Miguel Cabrera carries them, which I'm sure he'll do. 
• Cleveland Indians: Under Terry Francona, the Indians are taking the baseball world by surprise since they're actually in contention now.  Some people have called them the Orioles of last year, but their team isn't as good as the O's were.  Yes, they're in second place, but they have so many flaws and players playing out of their mind that I know it can't last all season.  The bad players are producing and the supposed good ones like Michael Bourn are under-performing. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'll have to see it to believe it.
• Kansas City Royals: The Royals are frustrating to me because they have all the talent in the world, but still have trouble succeeding.  Their homegrown talent like Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas are playing terrible, and they trade Will Myers, their best hitting prospect for James Shield.  I understand the need to win now, but that's still a risky move.  They're middle of the pack now, and have talented players like Alex Gordon, Salvador Perez, and backup Jarrod Dyson, but they'll have to do something at the deadline if they want to compete this year.  Pitching was supposed to be one of their strengths, but so far, it's not.
• Minnesota Twins: I'd by lying if I said I followed of watched a lot of Twins games this year, but from what I've heard, they've been decent.  Their pitching staff is nothing to write home about, but they still have one of the best players in the game in Joe Mauer (even though he doesn't catch much anymore, which is where his true value is).  On a side note though, it's great to see Justin Morneau playing, since he was a top 15-20 player until concussions ruined his career.  Hopefully, he'll stay healthy and finish the season strong.
• Chicago White Sox: The White Sox are a dreadful team with an unlikeable roster.  They should trade their talent like Adam Dunn, Alexis Rios, and Alexei Ramirez for prospects, but it's unlikely they will.  They could even trade their star players like Chris Sale, but I doubt that happens unless they are blown away.  Oh well, at least they still have Ken "Hawk" Harrelson saying "You can put it on the board...YES"!

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

• Oakland Athletics: Billy Beane has done it again.  He builds a roster of players with the little payroll he has, yet competes every year.  This year, it's been particularly surprising since their hitting and pitching haven't been as good as last year, but they've had players step up like Bartolo Colon and Josh Donaldson.  I want to say they'll fall off, but they never do just like the Rays.  They just have fun and play baseball, which is what a lot of teams need to do.
• Texas Rangers: The past few years, the Rangers have been one of the most consistent teams in baseball hitting, pitching, and making the playoffs.  This year, they started off strong, but slow starts and injuries to some of their key players has hurt them.  Despite my dislike of their team (for whatever reason), I have to give them credit since they have so many players I love watching like Yu Darvish and Adrian Beltre.  Also, on the whole Ian Kinsler issue, yes he should change spots for Jurickson Profar or just get traded.  You do what's best for the team, not what's best for you individually.
• Los Angeles Angels: For the second year in a row, baseball's highest spending team has stumbled out of the gate.  They may have the best young player in Mike Trout, but have Albert Pujols and Josh Hamilton, two albatrosses on the field and on their payroll.  Injuries have killed them (especially the one to Jared Weaver), but there comes a time when you just have to admit that a team has chemistry issues, and I think this team has it.  Can they turn it around?  Sure, they have the talent too, but if they don't, I wouldn't be shocked to see major changes.
• Seattle Mariners: Felix Hernandez, hands down, is one of my favorite players in any sport!  He has the talent and swagger that Pedro Martinez had when he was in Boston.  It's too bad though that their team always struggles, whether it's pitching or hitting.  Everyone said this year would be different for the Mariners because of the players they bought in, and the fact the fences at Safeco have been moved, but that hasn't impacted their record much.  On the bright side, Raul Ibanez is having a revival season for the team and King Felix is just dealing!  Enough said!  Even though this year looks like it'll be another wash, I see huge things for their future.
• Houston Astros: The Astros are in complete rebuild, so there isn't much I can say about them.  I like how they signed Jose Altuve showing they are committed to the future, and their draft seemed productive, but it will be years before we see whether their moves paid off. 

 NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST

• Atlanta Braves: The Braves started hot out of the gate faster than I imagined, winning many of their games in April because of the bat of Justin Upton.  But he cooled off, and some of his teammates like his brother B.J Upton, and Jason Heyward have yet to pick it up for various reasons.  They've gotten surprisingly consistent play from slick fielding Andrelton Simmons and "The Janitor" Even Gattis, but I question how long they can keep it up.  Injuries are catching up to them, and their division lead is dwindling.
• Washington Nationals: Bryce Harper is a stud, and before he was injured making a death defying play, you could make a case that he was MVP of the National League.  But we all know that's not how it works.  Bryce was hurt, and it affected his team greatly as their offense struggled.  Although, some blame has to go to Ryan Zimmerman, their expensive third baseman who can't even throw to first base right now.  I think they have the ability to catch up to the Braves, but if Stephen Strasburg can't turn it around, than everyone's predictions about the Nationals making the playoffs will be wrong.  Maybe he needs a break like last year, but this team can't afford any miscues.
• Philadelphia Phillies: When I look at the Phillies roster, I question so many of their moves because they have so many washed up and expensive players like Ryan Howard, Delmon Young, and Jonathan Papelbon.  They're making a bit of a run now, but everyone knows there is no way they can contend, so they should trade what they have and try to get as young as possible.  Cole Hamels may be untouchable, but I think everyone else isn't.
• New York Mets: New York's other finest team.  In terms of the regular season wins, they don't have many, but they have had major bright spots this year.  Matt Harvey has made people forget about R.A Dickey and is starting the All-Star Game tonight, David Wright is hitting, and they've had some memorable comeback wins.  I'd be concerned with some of their top prospects like Zach Wheeler since they haven't done well in their short major league careers yet, but I'm excited for them.  And I look forward to the All-Star Game tonight.
• Miami Marlins: The Marlins are one of the laughingstocks of MLB because of the deal they made last off-season trading just about everyone they signed, and leaving Giancarlo Stanton alone to carry a team by himself.  There's no doubt in my mind he can do it, but he's been injured a majority of this year, which has made this team even more unwatchable than usual.  As bad as their team is, at least they have some young players to build around, so when their deceitful owner is gone, maybe that team can make some noise. 

NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL

• St. Louis Cardinals: Along with the Rangers, the Cardinals have been one of most consistent teams in baseball the past few years.  Under Tony LaRussa, it was obvious because they had the best player in the world in Albert Pujols, but they're both gone, and yet, they still succeed.  Some fans were upset they let Albert go, but it was for the best because now they have money to sign their younger players like Yadier Molina, Allen Craig, and Adam Wainwright, leading me to believe they'll contend for a long time. 
• Pittsburgh Pirates: Andrew McCutchen is one of the best young center fielders and players in baseball, but not many people know about him since he plays in Pittsburgh, which is a shame because he's fun to watch.  He's a 5-tool player, clutch, and a great leader for his team, enhancing the play of teammates like Pedro "El" Toro Alvarez and Jason Grilli.  The Pirates have the longest streak of losing seasons in North American sports, but I know it'll end this year because this team has more talent than the last two years.  Yes, they could fade like in previous seasons, but I believe, and will have my black and gold on cheering my team away from home.
• Cincinnati Reds: I can't stand the Reds, like the Rangers, but I can explain why I dislike this team, DUSTY BAKER!  He may have a lot of wins as a manager, but he is terrible.  He can't manage in games, and blows out pitcher's arms (i.e, Mark Prior and Kerry Wood).  Sure he hasn't done it recently, but he'll probably do it to Aroldis Chapman.  Aside from my Dusty hating, I can't say many negative things about the play of the Reds.  They have so many great players, and did one of the best trades this off-season, getting Shin-Soo-Choo, which has stabilized their lineup and outfield.  Hopefully, they don't catch my Pirates, but if they do, I wouldn't be shocked.
• Chicago Cubs: Theo Epstein has done the best job he could the past year and a half trying to rebuild the Cubs, and while I think he's done an okay job, I still think he's been disappointing.  All of his moves are questionable, and the roster he's assembled stinks.  They're unlikeable like the White Sox, and some of their star players from last year, like Starlin Castro and Anthony Rizzo have regressed drastically.  I don't know how good it looks for them, but at least Wrigley Field will be getting renovations.
• Milwaukee Brewers: A couple of years ago, the Brewers used to be one of the best teams in baseball, with one of the best players in baseball in Ryan Braun.  Things gave changed though.  The team has gone south, and Braun has made the news for performance enhancing drugs.  I used to like him, but I can't stand cheaters, so he deserves whatever punishment he gets.  It may be harsh, but I'm an old school baseball guy.  Despite all this negativity, at least they have Jean Segura.

NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST

• Arizona Diamondbacks: The Diamondbacks have a lot of youth on their team I like a lot, such as Paul Goldschmidt and Patrick Corbin.  I haven't seen many of their games, but everything I have seen has been positive, besides their bullpen, which is atrocious.  People say having a good closer is overrated, but look at the Red Sox.  You need a closer or else you'll give games away.  The D'Backs need a closer, but Heath Bell and David Hernandez aren't the answer.
• Los Angeles Dodgers: Like the Angels, the Dodgers are a disappointment because of their record with the talent they have.  They have arguably the best pitcher in baseball in Clayton Kershaw, Matt Kemp, Zack Greinke, Hanley Ramirez, Adrian Gonzalez, etc.  Hell, even Yasiel Puig, as good as he's been, hasn't gotten their team above .500.  Sure, you could make the case they haven't been good because of injuries, but lots of teams with injuries get by.  I just think this team has chemistry issues. They could make the playoffs because their division is so weak, but if they do, they won't go far. 
• Colorado Rockies: The Red Sox and Pirates are the team I root for on the East Coast, but on the West Coast, I root for the Rockies.  I thought so highly of their team this year, I thought they'd make the playoffs, which may sound ridiculous now, but before injuries hit, they were one of the top teams in the National League.  Troy Tulowitzki is the best shortstop, and one of my favorite players in the league, but it's unfortunate him, Carlos Gonzalez, and Dexter Fowler can't stay healthy at the same time.  If they did, there's no doubt in my mind they would be above .500.  I definitely see a big turnaround for the second half though.  You can quote me on that.
• San Francisco Giants: Back in 2010, before the Giants won their first World Series in however many years, I rooted for them, but now, I can't stand them because they're kind of like the Yankees and always win.  Despite how I feel, I have nothing but love and respect for Buster Posey and Marco Scutaro.  I can't stand Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum though, so it's good to see them struggling since it means other teams I like can take advantage of them.  To say they're done though, would be silly, so I'm not counting them out yet.
• San Diego Padres:The Padres or "Pod Squad" as I've called them, are having a terrible season.  Their pitching is terrible, and the hitters who did well last year like Chase Headley are having trouble because of injuries.  I'd be lying if I said I knew many players on their roster, so I won't try to name any of them.  In years I'm sure they'll improve, but right now, they stink, and need major changes or they'll keep being near the bottom of the barrel.

A Home Run Derby Suggestion

Ken Griffey, Jr. participating in the Home Run Derby during better times

For those of you who follow baseball (and for those of you who don't), tonight is the Home Run Derby, one of the highlights of Major League Baseball's All-Star Game.  I usually love watching the All-Star Game because I like seeing all the players from different teams coming together to play, and I love how the hosting city gets so excited for it.  But I cannot stand the Home Run Derby itself as an event.  Maybe it's because it's too long, or maybe it's because Chris Berman commentates it terribly.  Regardless, the event needs to change.

As much as I advocate change though, I don't know how MLB could make the event more interesting.  It already has all the star's in it competing and giving it their all.  I think in the 90s it was interesting because that was when home runs exploded (for reasons we are all aware of now), but now the event is stale.  Home runs, while still impressive, just aren't as amazing as they used to be.  Compared to slam dunks and goals in other sports, which can always look different, home runs are home runs.  So how can the Home Run Derby get better?

My suggestion is to eliminate the Home Run Derby all together.  As a baseball purist, I know it sounds like blasphemy, but let's be honest, not many people watch it.  In place of the Home Run Derby, I say we have two all star games like how the NBA does with their Rookie-Sophomore Challenge.  You have the starters voted in and picked by the managers playing the game that counts, which makes sense because it's for home field advantage in the World Series, and have the other players play for exhibition or charity.  It sounds crazy because of the risk of other players getting hurt, but it would solve so many issues people currently have with the All-Star Game.  With two games, there would be more all stars, meaning someone is less likely to get snubbed.  Also, with one roster actually playing the main game, then each side will have the best team available competing for home field advantage, which is what I want!  I love every team being represented by a player, but since this game counts, I want the stars like Miguel Cabrera and Buster Posey playing the whole game, not two innings.  Everything I'm saying may sound crazy, but like I said, it's just a suggestion.   

I'M BACK!

To quote the newspaper article that was published when Michael Jordan returned from his first retirement from basketball, "I'M BACK" from my brief hiatus, which lasted a few days.  For anyone who reads, or checks out my blog, I apologize.  I try to write something everyday, but this past week has been really busy with my online class, and things to do at home.  Things are starting to wind down though, so hopefully, I'll be able to get back to writing about the things in life I find interesting.

Dan Gilbert Sucks!

Yesterday, Andrew Bynum signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers.  But the only thing I could think of when I heard of this news was Dan Gilbert, the miserable owner of that team.  I'm not lying when I say that I cannot stand this man.  Why you may ask?  The answer should be obvious, but I'll explain anyways.

First off, he's not a team guy.  You may think he is because of everything he's doing this off-season with trades and draft picks, but in the past, he wouldn't do that for players who could have helped him win, like Amar'e Stoudemire.  Then of course, there's everything that happened with him and LeBron James.  He couldn't surround him with any talent, then insulted him behind his back when he chose to leave Cleveland for Miami  I understand being upset, but you don't do that to a player who saved your franchise and gave you everything he had.  Sure, LeBron may not have gave 100% every night, but not many athlete's do.  Along with that, there's the arrogance and smugness he has.  That attribute may be difficult to see, but all you have to do is watch the draft lottery's the past 2-3 years, and you'll understand what I mean.  He brings his son with him, who is sick to give the team luck, but I know he just does it for publicity because when you have a reputation like he and his team do, you need it.

Now, I know with this tirade it sounds like I dislike owners of teams, but I don't.  I just don't like owners who are fake and don't give it their all, which Dan Gilbert does.  Everyone keeps talking about how LeBron may go back to Cleveland next year, but I say he shouldn't or else this bum will get another prize he doesn't deserve like he did with Kyrie Irving.  The Cavaliers are a franchise that has picked themselves up nicely after "The Decision", but I hope they don't win as long as Dan Gilbert is owner.  There are much more deserving teams, and much more deserving owners.

My Top 6 Favorite Cereals

I like a lot of food, but one that really touches my heart is cereal.  That may be surprising to some because they only think of cereal as breakfast food, or something that doesn't taste that satisfying, but to me, I think cereal can be eaten at any time, and when it's the right cereal, can be as satisfying as any food (although I have yet to try it against cooked food like steak).  The only problem is, with so many different kinds of cereal available, how can you decide on which ones to try or eat?  I thought about this for awhile, but I didn't come up with the idea of ranking cereals until I ate my favorite cereal today.  I'll leave that answer till the end, but until then, here are my top 6 favorite cereals.

6. Kix: This puffed cereal maybe very plain in appearance, but it's taste is familiar and smooth.  Plus, it's mother approved, so at least you know it's a little healthy compared to other cereals on the market.

5. Fruit Loops: This cereal packs a lot of fruit into it's loops, and tastes better than the other competition, so that's why I love it.

4. Golden Grahams:  Out of all the cereals on this list, "Golden Grahams" is the one I haven't had the longest.  The last time I remember having it was in elementary school when they gave it for breakfast.  Back then, I was addicted to it because of how sweet it was (which was no surprise considering it was briefly pulled from stores because of it's high sugar), and it's design.  To me, this is a cereal that must be eaten with milk to experience both sides of it.

3. Apple Jacks: "Apple Jacks" is another cereal I haven't had in years, but this made my list because of its distinct taste it had (not tasting like apples), which I loved, and all the time I spent wondering why that was the case. 

2. Frosted Flakes: I don't think this needs an explanation since I know this is one of the most popular cereals out there.  The taste is amazing, and it's texture is something else.  It's crunchy, but in milk, it's arguably even better for me.

1. Honey Nut Cheerios: And now we have my favorite cereal, "Honey Nut Cheerios", which is no surprise to people if they've know me.  The honey taste is wonderful, it gets wet well in milk, and it helps lower cholesterol.  I hate to always emphasize good health as a reason for liking cereal, but most cereal has a lot of sugar, so it's nice to see a cereal helping you that tastes good compared to "Kashi" or something. 

The Death Penalty

This week in my online class (since it's about Criminal Justice), we got to the inevitable topic of the death penalty.  For others, including myself, this subject is touchy, but I still find it interesting nonetheless.  In the chapter, I learned about the history of the death penalty, statistics about it, how it's abused by prosecutors based on race, and how long it can sometimes take to decide if someone is worthy of being executed.  Some of the information was shocking to say the least, and had me think twice of how I feel about it.  I'm one of the few people in Massachusetts probably for it because I think it's the only way to make someone pay for a serious crime, but when it's abused, costing money, and innocent people are being put to death, then I don't know how to feel.  I feel like that is wrong, but I feel as though if the death penalty ever disappeared then that wouldn't be a positive thing because I believe we as people, should always have options.  I feel the same way about other touchy subjects (which will be discussed another day maybe).  The death penalty may not exist in Massachusetts and has fallen out of favor, but I wonder how people feel about the most serious criminals.  Would they rather have them live their lives out in prison, or be put to death for swift justice?  Do two wrongs make a right?  These are questions I don't have the answer to.

I'm sorry for not saying much more, or if I offended anybody.  I just had to say how I feel.

NBA Free Agency Thoughts

Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, and Andre Iguodala.  Some of the biggest free agents this summer

Since it's summer, baseball is the main sport of focus, but that doesn't mean the other sports take a break.  Football has training camps, while hockey and basketball have free agency.  Hockey free agency is very active, but most of the players are people I've never heard of, so during the summer, I focus mostly on NBA free agency because after baseball, it's my favorite sport to follow.  This year's free agency is nothing like it was when LeBron James was a free agent, but that doesn't mean it's still not interesting.  Lots of players have taken their talents to new places, while some others have stayed.  And while everyone hasn't signed yet, here are some my thoughts on the players who have made decisions so far.

In no particular order...

• Chris Paul: CP3's resigning comes as no surprise to me or anybody considering the Los Angeles Clippers have done everything he wanted.  They got rid of Vinny Del Negro for Doc Rivers, which is a plus, and they added and traded players (i.e, Eric Bledsoe).  I still don't know if the Clippers can compete for an NBA title, especially with the West being stacked, and Black Griffin taking a step back this past year, but with arguably the league's top point guard and coach, they'll definitely be in contention.
• Dwight Howard: Dwight has finally chosen the Houston Rockets as his new team.  HALLELUJAH!  Praise the lord!  The baby made a choice.  I don't want to criticize Dwight, since I think he means well, but it's hard not to with the decisions he's made the past two years.  He goes back and forth with his decisions, is a terrible teammate, and whines about a lot.  Let's just hope that because he's picked a new team, he'll stay there and keep his mouth shut.
• Tyreke Evans: I've made it no secret that Tyreke Evans is one of my favorite players in the NBA, but it's hard to be a fan with his regression since his rookie year.  That year, he was averaging 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, but since then, all those stats have gone down, and he's been injured off and on.  You can blame his poor play on the coaching staff, the fact that he never had a set position on the Sacramento Kings, or his overall effort.  I don't know if I want to go there because I watch a lot of Kings games, and I see that he tries, but he takes plays off too.  I'm not surprised Tyreke is leaving the Kings (I even thought it'd happen at the trade deadline), I just thought it wouldn't be for the New Orleans Pelicans.  He didn't know where he'd play in Sacramento, but where's he going to play in New Orleans with all the players they have?  I honestly don't know, but I wish him the best.  I'll still root for him, but it won't be the same now that he's not wearing the Sacramento purple.
• Andre Iguodala: One of the most balanced and underrated players in the league agreed to a 4 year deal with the Golden State Warriors yesterday, which I can't praise enough.  The Warriors were already good, but with "Iggy", their defense got better, and they're even more spectacular than before.  Los Angeles may have Kobe Bryant and "Lob City", but Golden State may have the best team in California.
• Al Jefferson: "Big Al" agreed to go to the Charlotte Bobcats on July 4, which was a surprise decision that many people frowned on, but I like the move for owner, general manager, and greatest NBA player of all-time Michael Jordan.  The Bobcats need talent and a player they can build around.  Al Jefferson may not be a top 20 player, but he's one of the best young big men in the league, with good health and consistency.  Something that's hard to find in any big man and on the Bobcats.  I doubt they'll make the playoffs any time soon, but this signing is a step in the right direction.
• David West: Not much to say here.  David West agreed to resign with the Indiana Pacers.  He did great with them last year, and bought a lot of tenacity with his play, so I expect that to continue.
• O.J Mayo: This is a baffling signing to me, but only because of the destination, which was the Milwaukee Bucks.  I have no problem with the city, but the team's roster is up in the air until they figure out what to do with Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis.  The only thing I got from this decision is that all O.J Mayo cares about is money, which is no surprise with the way the NBA is structured.
• J.R Smith: J.R Smith has been called the best scorer in the NBA before, which is a bit of a stretch, but when he's on, he's hard to stop.  In New York last year, he was on his "A" game often, being one of the team's best players and winning Sixth Man Of The Year Honors.  For that reasoning, I thought he should be resigned, but there's risk in the move because of J.R Smith's conduct and mindset.  He's not the most behaved player (like what he did in Boston), and he makes a lot of bonehead plays, but there's no doubt he can play and fits into what the New York Knicks want to do.  A big contract for him in my eyes spells trouble though.
• Ray Allen: Not really a free agent, but he had an option, so I put him here.  It still hurts to see Ray Allen in a Miami Heat jersey, but I got over it.  I though he might retire on top, but you know what they say.  "If something still works, don't fix it".  The Heat have that formula down, so with Ray Allen, they're going to try for a three-peat. 
• Kevin Martin: Kevin Martin is a nice player, but nowhere near the hype or money he's gotten.  For a sixth man, he was overpaid.  And at the end of the day, he chose to leave the Oklahoma City Thunder for the Minnesota Timberwolves.  What a great decision!  I'm being sarcastic of course.  With this move, it's clear where Kevin Martin's mindset was.  Man, what idiots the Thunder must feel though for trading James Harden, and now losing the player they traded him for.  That's NBA free agency though.

Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day (PG)

Grade: A+

• Directed by: Harold Ramis
• Produced by: Trevor Albert and Harold Ramis
• Screenplay: Danny Rubin and Harold Ramis
• Starring: Bill Murray (Phil Connors), Andie McDowell (Rita), Chris Elliot (Larry), Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned Ryerson), Brian Doyle-Murray (Buster Green), Harold Ramis (Neurologist)
• Cinematographer: John Bailey
• Music by: George Fenton
• Distributed by: Columbia Pictures
• Released: February 12, 1993
• Running Time: 101 minutes/1 hour and 41 minutes
• Language: English 

 

The 4th of July was yesterday, but the only day on my mind is "Groundhog Day".  NO!  Not the day itself, the film with Bill Murray.  I'll be honest; I had no expectations coming into this film because I had never heard of it, and the fact my friend bought at a store in a CD case for $2, but man, was I glad he did.  This film is great!

"Groundhog Day" has a premise we're all familiar with (which is ironic considering what the film is about).  What would you do if you woke up and relived one day over and over again?  To some, that would be a dream, but it's a nightmare for Phil Connors, a TV weatherman who has that happen to him on Groundhog Day.  He already hates his job, and the people he works with, so when this happen, he wants to kill himself, but eventually he makes the best out of the situation, leading to hilarious and touching results.

For a film this good, there's lots of praise that can be spread around.  The film has a great plot, it's well written, and the jokes are a riot and memorable (if/when you watch it, you'll see what I mean), but the winner of this award has to go to Harold Ramis and Bill Murray.  Ramis deserves praise for obvious reason.  He directed, produced, wrote, and even starred in the film, but he was the one who cast Murray as the lead, a pivotal decision which put the film over the top.  To be honest, I'm haven't seen Bill Murray in many films besides his classic films like "Ghostbusters", but I knew from his previous roles he would be funny and sarcastic.  I was right about that, but I didn't expect him to show the range he'd end up having in this film.  Yes, he's an a**hole at times that you don't root for, but as you delve deeper into the film, it's obvious Phil Connors is more than he seems.

"Groundhog Day" is a film with so many strengths, but the one reason why I now love it and recommend it is the connection it has to real life.  We all wish or at least contemplate what our lives would be like if we could relive one day constantly.  Now, our dream/fantasy is finally on the big screen, and it doesn't just show the joy and humor some of us would have; it shows the sadness, and loneliness we'd have knowing that we could never see the people we love again or move on from situations.  At the same time, the film shows that any person can change, even the bad ones for the better. "Groundhog Day" may of been made 20 years ago, but it's messages still apply, and it's worth seeing if you're a fan of films.  And that's something I don't need a groundhog to know.

Trading Cards: A Gold Mine

One of the rarest trading cards of all time, and the first of my generation

Trading cards are a funny thing to me.  Back when I was a child, I played with them like anyone else, but I had no idea when I got older that some of them would become gold mines.  They're pieces of plastic for goodness sake, but trading cards are much more than that or the picture on them.  They represent a part of youth that gets lost as you get older, and also represent competitive collecting or playing depending on your forte.  As I look back on trading cards now that I'm playing Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokemon, I'm amazed at the sheer power these cards command.  Not just in their strength, but as I said, value.  It led me to find this list online, which I found interesting, which are the Top 10 priciest cards in all trading cards.   You may still think trading cards are worth nothing, but this list, and people's wallets, say otherwise. 

http://games.yahoo.com/blogs/unplugged/10-priciest-collectible-cards-232119394.html  

Forever

Don't have much to say tonight, since as usual, I have a lot on my mind.  But I'm still listening to a lot of K-Pop thanks to my brother's constant playing of it.  Before it was just a fad I thought I would get over, but now, I can't stop listening to it, particularly the sweet harmonies of the K-pop band 2PM, who are kind of like Korea's answer to the Backstreet Boys/98 Degrees, etc.  They do a lot of hard/dance pop, but their soft pop is just as good in my opinion.  One song in particular of theirs that I can't stop listening to is the song "Forever".  I don't know what all the lyrics mean (and am too lazy to look them up), but I know it's about love, and goes perfectly with how I feel now, so to end the night, here's 2PM's underrated song "Forever".  Enjoy and Good Night!