Greg Biffle wins the Sam's Town 300

Greg Biffle was caught on speeding on pt road, ran out of gas while leading-twice but that didn’t stop him for charging to victory. After going 76 Nationwide Series races since his last victory, Biffle finally made the trip to Victory Lane by winning the Sam’s Town 300 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. His last win came in California on February 25, 2006, when he took the checkered in the Stater Bros. 300 at Auto Club Speedway.

Trouble came early when Denny Hamlin spun just nine laps into the race. Later, his teammate Kyle Busch wrecked while racing Kevin Harvick for the lead. The accident collected the pole sitter Scott Speed. After the wreck Kyle Busch, who is a Las Vegas native , told reporters “It was 100 percecnt my fault for racing for the lead that early in the race. I shouldn’t have been doing that that early in the race. I should have just rode around I second place all day and waiting to make the move on the last lap.” Mike Bliss after being involved with a wreck with Denny in the closing laps said he couldn’t “wait to go home”. He recognized the craziness of this day.

All together today there were 12 cautions for 60 laps(a new record), 2 red flags, and 17 lead changes among 12 leaders. Just 10 cars finished on the lead lap.

The Top 10 continued with:
#60-Carl Edwards
#32-Brian Vickers
#38-Jason Leffler,
#5-Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
#47-Michael McDowell
#62-Brendan Gaughan
#12-Justin Allgaier
#11-Scott Lagasse, Jr.
#29-Jeff Burton.
Kyle Busch, the points leader coming into the race, wrecked on lap 22 and finished 39th.

The next race for the Nationwide Series is the Scotts Turf Builder 300 from Bristol Motor Speedway on March 21. Coverage begins at 2:30pm eastern time. Now let’s get ready for tomorrow’s race from Las Vegas. Kyle Busch has the pole, but will have to drop back because of an engine change. Until then!

Scott Speed on the pole for Sam's Town 300

Scott Speed, driver of the #99 Red Bull Toyota Camry for Michael Waltrip Racing, won the pole for the Sam’s Town 300 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Scott set a new track record with a speed of 182. 45 mph and a lap time of 29.59. Joining him on the front row and also breaking a track record is Kevin Harvick, driver of the #33 Rheem Tankless Water Heaters Chevy for Kevin Harvick, Inc. Rounding out the top ten include:

#16-Greg Biffle
#20-Denny Hamlin,
#18, Kyle Busch
#66-Steve Wallace
#60-Carl Edwards
#88-Brad Keselowski
#1-Mike Bliss
#32-Brian Vickers

NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr will start 15th in the GoDaddy Chevy for JR Motorsports. Coverage for the Sam’s Town 300 from Las Vegas starts at 4pm eastern time on ESPN2.

If it's an exciting race, I'm sure I'll post another blog later!

I FEEL you, Man!

Do you ever have mornings that you wake up and your blood feels like mollasses? It's as if the thickest, stickiest, slowest moving substance is creeping through your veins. You ache.

There are many emotions that cause me to have that feeling: sadness, desire, excitement, shock, love, guilt. Those are just a few. Yet, they all give the same sensation. My veins feel as if they are swollen and filled to the brim. And, there is normally a rushing feeling in my shoulder and chest.

Emotion is a funny thing. The way that it FEELS. It's not just a thought but and actual feeling. We laugh, not because only our head tells us to, but because we feel the happiness. We cry, not because we think it's time but we feel sad.

"That hurts my feelings." You've heard it. You have probably even done it. Hurt someone's feelings, I mean.

I wonder, did you care? Did it give you a rush of excitement? Did you feel excited?

I wonder is my rush of good feelings worth your rush of bad? Probably not. When someone is envious they tend to purposely hurt someone. They allow their opinions on your achievements to be the anger in their words. They can't just feel happy for you. Instead, they have to make you feel that you don't deserve what you get.

I disagree. Anytime you get where you are going, it's because you travelled to get there. Anytime you win a race, it's because you worked to win it. Granted, some people have been given the ability to do less and get further in life. Lucky them, don't envy them...be happy for them.

My goal of the week is to try and feel for others.

(Yes, I plan to do this every week...have a new goal)

What is your goal this week?

• do you need to get the house clean?
• run a mile?
• lose three pounds?
• read a book?
• say sorry to an old friend?

Who's The Better Joker, Heath Ledger Or Jack Nicholson?

Heath Ledger solidified himself as a star before the now infamous Joker role. But there are people out there who still believe Jack Nicholson was the better Joker.

What's great about Heath's portrayal of The Joker was the dark nature. I mean he really became a psycho to play the role. Jack Nicholson's Joker just looks a little too happy.

That could just be my bias. Either way I loved both movies.

Here's a YouTube video that might help some of you decide who's the better Joker:



Who do you think played the better Joker? Did Heath Ledger deserve the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the Academy Awards?

Class Is Now In Session

Are you ready for some baseball? I know I am.

It's 71 degrees at City of Palms Park down in sunny Fort Myers, Florida. The only breathing creatures on this earth that could match the excitement that Red Sox fans have for the return of their beloved team would be the Boston College baseball team. The college boys from Beantown got a chance to take batting practice with the Sox and meet and greet their favorite players from the club. The boys from BC chatted with the Sox and took a few pictures, but when it was time for the first pitch, it was all business.

Josh Beckett took the mound in the first inning knowing that he was going to be limited to two innings. Beckett's fastball was cruising into the mitt of Josh Bard in the low 90's, certainly not a bad sign this early on. Although it was Boston College, it's always a good sign to see Beckett retire the first three batters he faces. Three up, three down on just nine pitches made Beckett look like himself again.

Batting second, Rocco Baldelli began his spring with a strikeout at the hands of BC starter, Geoff Oxley. I wouldn't judge his first at bat too crucially; keep in mind it's only February 25.

When Beckett took the mound in the second frame, he faced BC's cleanup hitter with a familiar last name. Sam Shaughnessy, the youngest of three kids that call the Boston Globe's Dan Shaughnessy, "Dad", got up to bat against the flame-throwing Beckett. If it were Curt Schilling on the mound, there's a good chance that Sam may have been icing a nice little bruise after the game, but since Beckett doesn't have a bone to pick with Shaughnessy, he just struck his son out on four pitches.

Knowing that he was only out there for a selected amount of innings, Beckett mixed up his pitches early on by spinning his breaking pitches in between his fastballs to the BC offense. Beckett K'd Robbie Anston to end the second, and that was the day for the Boston ace. It took just 22 pitches to carve through his share of the BC batters without giving up a hit and striking out two.

Clay Buchholz followed Beckett in the third by entering the game and only needing six pitches (five for strikes) to complete his one inning of work.

The two teams remained in a scoreless tie until Boston College took a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth. Their lead lasted up until the bottom of the fifth until the Red Sox poured on six runs. The Sox added to their lead in the bottom of the six when shortstop prospect, Yamaico Navarro, crushed the first pitch that he saw way over the CVS sign out in left field.

The game's only other highlights came in the fifth inning when the Sox latest Japanese pitcher made his Spring Training debut. Junichi Tazawa pitched a perfect fifth inning and in a shortened game, Sox prospect, Daniel Bard, came on to pitch the seventh, and final, inning to be played. Bard, who can hit 100 MPH on the gun, struck out two batters in his one inning of work to conclude the game and secure a win for the Boston Red Sox.

It was an unusual day for the Red Sox as the two teams squared off for just seven innings, not nine. 7-1 may seem like a blowout, but last year the Sox crushed BC by a 24-0 score. The closest BC has ever come to defeating the Red Sox down in Fort Myers was back in 2002 when the Sox squeaked out a 2-1 victory. Since 1916, Boston College has played the Red Sox during Spring Training 19 times. They have lost all 19 times.

Final score: Boston College 1, Red Sox 7

In other news, Daisuke Matsuzaka made his first start for Japan in an exhibition game against Australia. The MVP of the World Baseball Classic for the victorious Japanese club struggled in his return to the tournament that he dominated in 2006. Matsuzaka hurled just 1.2 innings giving up two runs on five hits.

The trouble for the 18-game winner with Boston last season didn't start until the second inning. Daisuke began hit outing by striking out three of the first five batters that came to the plate in impressive fashion. However, things soon fell apart as the right-hander surrendered a two-run double not long before getting the hook.

Is this a cause for concern? Absolutely not. If it weren't February, he would have stayed out there and likely would have recovered to have a nice outing. But since it's still the spring, there is no sense in taking any chances.

The Sox action hasn't ended with the conclusion of their 7-1 victory against BC, Boston will be taking on the Minnesota Twins tonight at 7:05pm on NESN in their first Grapefruit League game. Tim Wakefield gets the ball under the lights tonight in what hopes to be the cure to all of our off-season depressions. It's also worth noting that Alex Rodriguez hit a home run in his first Spring Training game, just sayin'.

Sad moment in Colts History.

Indianapolis Colts have released Marvin Harrison, ending the star receiver’s 13 year career with the team. Colts Owner Jim Irsay made the announcement earlier today after meeting with Marvin in a final effort to get him to re-sign for less money. Until today, Marvin Harrison had the highest salary cap number of any NFL receiver at $13.4 million. Harrison will turn 37 on August 25. He is coming off his least productive season in his NFL career. With the Colts cutting him today they save about $6 million on next season’s salary cap. Question is who will be cut next?!?!? Another sad moment in Colts history. Thank you Marvin. Good luck wherever you end up. You'll always be our MVP!

CAREER ACHIEVEMENTS
*Holds franchise receiving records with 1,102 receptions for 14,580 yards and 128 TDs.
*Holds franchise mark with 59 100+ games and 90 career games with touchdown receptions.
*Ranks 2nd in NFL career receptions, 4th in receiving yardage, 5th in touchdown receptions, tied for 2nd in 100+ games and 9th in total touchdowns.
*Ranks first in club history with receptions in 190 consecutive games, while streak of 190 consecutive games with a reception stands as the longest NFL streak to begin a career and second overall behind Jerry Rice (274 games).
*Harrison has club-record nine 3+-TD receiving games and 29 multiple-TD receiving games, while 29 multiple-TD games rank tied for 4th in NFL history.
*Became first player in NFL history with eight consecutive 10+-touchdown reception seasons (1999-06), snapping Rice's mark of seven consecutive seasons (1989-95).
*Tied Rice’s NFL record with eight consecutive 80+-reception seasons (1999-06), and Harrison is the only NFL player with 100+ receptions in four consecutive years (1999-02), including an NFL-record 143 receptions in 2002.
*Is the only NFL receiver to produce consecutive 1,500-plus-yard seasons (2001-02), and his three career 1,500-yard seasons ranks only behind Rice’s four.
*In 158 games together, Harrison caught 953 passes for 12,766 yards and 112 TDs from QB-Peyton Manning, the most completions, yards and touchdowns by a QB-WR tandem in NFL history.
*Was selected to eight career Pro Bowls (1999-06).
*Ranks 3rd in Colts history and 1st among non-kickers with 778 career points (995, K-Mike Vanderjagt; 783, K-Dean Biasucci).
*Led the team in TDs in 11 of 13 seasons, while he led the club in receptions and receiving yards in nine of 13 seasons.
*Has multiple receptions in 184 of 190 career games.
*Has most receptions over first 7 (665), 8 (759), 9 (845), 10 (927), 11 (1,022) and 13 (1,102) seasons of career of any NFL receiver.

2009 Oscar Red Carpet Fashion

The 2009 Oscars Hollywood red carpet is incredibly exciting, as fashionistas everywhere want to see what starlets are wearing on one of the biggest nights in American pop culture.

This year was no exception as millions tuned in, however the fashions themselves were overall disappointing. Trends included bold red, one shoulder gowns, and dramatic bottoms such as fishtail and trumpet shapes. These were certainly changes from the last show, and many fashion experts foresee the one shoulder look to be big this year.

The following is a rundown of some of the stand outs, both very good and very bad!

Sarah Jessica Parker in Dior Haute Couture-Thumbs Up

SJP referred to this creation as "barely mint", a color that was stunning on her. The bejeweled bustier top provided a sexy bustline, which was well balanced by the full and multi layered ball skirt. Very SJP and a very Carrie a la Paris.

Miley Cyrus in Zuhair Murhad - Worst Dressed

Miley looked overwhelmed, immature, and rather silly in this overwrought gown. Perhaps she wanted to look like a snowy Christmas tree... she must hire a new stylist.

Freida Pinto in John Galliano - Thumbs Up

John Galliano is one of my favorite designers, and in this instance he truly did Freida justice. This lovely medium shade of blue is divine on her skin, and the gown upholds a sari-like quality that references her Indian heritage and the film Slumdog Millionaire. The one shoulder detail keeps the look fresh.

Vanessa Hudgens in Marchesa - Thumbs Down

Certainly a disappointing look from Vanessa, who is typically adorable and chic. This gown exuded a similar immaturity as Miley's Worst Dressed gown. The overall cut was unflattering to her great body and the white flower detail at the bust looked cheap and out of proportion.

Anne Hathaway in Giorgio Armani - Best Dressed

Her lovely strapless fishtail bottom gown sparkled with thousands of paillettes and sequins. Anne looked sophisticated while maintaining a sense of modernity and fun youthfulness. Absolutely stunning.

Angelina Jolie in Elie Saab - Thumbs Up

Angelina's pick was one of the simplest of the evening and yet one of the best. The gown fit her perfectly and showed off her assets while remaining coy and elegant. The slit up the leg covered by sheer chiffon added a sense of movement and intrigue. And of course, having Brad on her arm didn't hurt the look.

Beyonce in unknown designer - Thumbs Down

If it weren't for Miley's terrible cupcake gown, Beyonce would have been the easy pick for Worst Dressed. The large trumpet bottom of this extremely tight dress added pounds to Beyonce where they were not needed. It was simply a terrible shape for her body. Additionally, the jacquard black and gown print appear to be upholstery from a ugly couch in Scarface's 80s Miami condo.

Heidi Klum in Roland Mouret - Thumbs Down

Although Heidi was sporting both the one shoulder and red trends, her outfit fell worse than flat. The dress fit poorly on her top, fitting across the bustline yet far too large at her waist. Her curves were not addressed in the architectural cut of this dress. The piles of bling on her fingers, left arm, and ears did not assist and looked far too heavy.

Natalie Portman in Rodarte - Thumbs Down

This gown was very disappointing. The bright pink seemed out of place on this typically chic and edgy starlet. The waistline also was not well defined and the spray on tan was highly questionable. And on top of that, her bag looks dark brown...what was she thinking? Not Natalie at her best.

So what do you think of these Oscar looks? Which ones do you like most? Least?

Fallen for You

I'm falling for you,
It's plain to see,
My attraction to you forever grows larger,
And in this moment, it's just you and me.

I'm falling for you,
Catch me if you care,
Because the cold, hard ground is coming fast,
And I'll crash if you aren't there.

I'm falling, and I'm longing to kiss your lips
Dropping fast, but still longing to feel your touch,
My longing for you, forever escalating,
This longing for you is becoming too much.

Expressing myself through this poem,
Just making it clear,
I've fallen for you,
Please don't drop me, my dear.

A Lesson Before Writing

I remember, quite vividly, sitting in English class discussing literature in which the inevitable question would be raised: "Did the author mean to say this?"

Now, in high school, that question was centered around the author's use of metaphor, imagery, etc. Let's face it: Most of my darling little high schoolers, in the beginning stages of learning how to write themselves, just couldn't fathom intending a metaphor to occur in writing. To them, it was some happy little blessing from the writing gods that they had no control over whatsoever.

In college, this discussion was centered around literary criticism. Did the author mean what we have interpreted as the meaning or theme of the text?

The answer, in high school or college, ultimately becomes this (and I type it apologizing to any former professors who may read this and want to gag on it when they do):

Who gives a damn if the author meant it that way or not? The fact is, what we have--what is published and in our hands--is what we have to work with when we study the literature.

Read the answer again.

One more time.

Have you read it three times, yet? Good.

Now, let's discuss.

The answer to that question is why it is imperative that an author know what he is trying to say, know who his audience is, and work tirelessly to communicate his message to his audience in a manner appropriate to their understanding.

Why?

Well, if the author doesn't know his audience, if he doesn't know who he wants to communicate his message to, then he runs the risk of being misinterpreted and misunderstood.

Consider it. Why is "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" such a difficult poem for people to understand, let alone explain? T.S. Eliot himself said he wrote for the educated, and he would have desired to write only for the wittiest of those. Why do most people not "get" cartoons in The New Yorker? The New Yorker isn't written for "most" people. Likewise, why don't we find many high-class followers of Jeff Foxworthy? He isn't for the high-class citizen. Had he marketed himself to them, the jokes would be "You might be a trust-fund baby if..."

We write for our audience, and if we don't know who they are, we won't see success.

After all, if we don't know our audience, we might just end up with this...

...and all the uproar that goes with it.

As I told my friend Dave, the New York Post can scream all day long that they didn't mean for this cartoon to be racist, but that doesn't matter now.

Intent be damned. We have product.

And the product can most definitely be seen as racist. Anyone who knows American history can see and defend that interpretation of this cartoon. White, Black, or Hot Pink with Polka Dots, we should be able to see how this is offensive.

So, Class, some basic rules before writing (or, sketching):

1. Know Thy Audience

2. Know Thy Message

3. (This is the big one) Know how to communicate thy Message to thy Audience EFFECTIVELY and APPROPRIATELY

Seriously, that cartoon (whether intended to be racist or not) is irresponsible.

Brian Vickers gets pole for Auto Club 500 at Auto Club Speedwa

It seemed just about everyone was conceding the pole for Sunday’s Auto Club 500 to Jimmie Johnson, three-time reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup champion. However, Brian Vickers didn’t get that memo.

Brian Vickers earned Red Bull Racing Team their second pole in the past 16 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races today, turning a lap for 183.439 mph. It was the sixth career pole and second at the 2-mile track for the 25 year old driver; who also earned Red Bull Racing Team their first pole last August 15th at Michigan International Raceway.

The difference between Vickers and Johnson’s lap was just 0.059 seconds.

After Vickers got the pole, Jimmie Johnson joked with the media by saying “The only thing I can think is Vickers and I went to In-N-Out Burger last night and I had a double and he had a single, I guess that extra patty killed me.”

Winning the pole for Vickers takes the heat off him after last weekend’s incident with Dale Jr at the Daytona 500. If you have been living under a rock, here is the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UOsGzxVoVI

Brian’s teammate, Scott Speed, qualified his number 82 in the ninth spot at a speed of 181.965 mph. Jamie McMurray was 3rd,followed by Kurt Busch, Greg Biffle, Jeff Gordon, David Reutimann, AJ Allmendinger, and rounding on the Top 10 was Kyle Busch, who got the pole for the Saturday’s Camping World Series race. Dale Earnhardt, Jr will start the race 35th after going out early.

Well, things went from good to bad for Vickers and the 83 team. I was just reading on Jayski.com that he will have to go to the back after an engine change. After winning the pole and meeting with the media, Vickers went back to the transporter and was told by crew chief Ryan Pemberton that they would have to change an engine.

* Nadya Suleman Wants Our Cash for Having 14 Kids?!

I know that there have been many posts about these octopulets already but I just cannot withhold my anger. Not only do I believe that Nadya Suleman is a crazy lady. Okay you want a baby but have no husband or willing partner. Go ahead and become a mother through IVF treatments or adoption.

However, FOURTEEN kids is just ridiculous. Granted, she did not ask for eight at once but she definitely abused the system.

And now? (I want to laugh aloud as I am writing this post.) She's created a website on which she has placed a random button to make an online donation. Donation?! Really, Nadya, really? You can find the relevant article here on cnn.com.

As my friend stated in an email, this woman is currently unemployed and had six children before the octuplets. She somehow managed to afford the expensive IVF treatments (usually around $15,000) and plastic surgery (rumored to have been inspired by her pathetic attempts to mirror Angelina Jolie). Now she wants donations? Get real.

I don't know about you but I would never donate a penny to this woman's "cause."

Sure, my heart breaks seeing that there are so many young children and they too need to eat, live in a safe home, enjoy a few toys, and wear decent clothing. However, I refuse to support Nadya Suleman's creepy need to have children.

She's single, without a job, and already a mother of too many to boot. No one should donate. No one should allow her to carry on this unethical (at least, in my opinion) charade. This woman unfortunately needs some psychiatric treatments --not IVF ones! Most importantly, her children need attention and stability, things which she probably cannot adequately offer them. And this "donation" link is somewhat proof of her inability to support her family.

What do you make of this donation link? Would you donate? What do you think of Nadya Suleman?

8 years later, and it still hurts.

On a sunny Sunday afternoon with the 500 winding down there they were Mickey, Jr. and Sr. running 1,2,3. It was an amazing day. Michael Waltrip running out front, Dale Jr. pushing and Sr. blocking. DEI was going to come in 1st and 2nd and Dale was going to make sure that nobody was going to stop that from happening. Then came turn 4 on the last lap. Dale blocked the last time and his car went out of control head first into the outside wall and then slowing into the infield. DEI, his company just finished 1st and 2nd in the 500 and he never got to see it happen.

FOX TV cut away from the 500 to go to commercial right after Waltrip crossed the finish line. Most of us including me turned away from the TV that day. We had seen many wrecks at Daytona and Talladega that looked much worse than the one that we had just seen. Everyone knew that Dale was going to be ok. It was just another accident. He did what he needed to do to make sure that his team, his cars won the race. Then the unthinkable happened. There were a couple of glimpses of the black #3 sitting on the infield grass and people running to the car. The safety crews showed up but you really couldn’t tell that anything was wrong. Then it happened Mike Helton came on and said the most unbelievable thing that any NASCAR fan could have believed “NASCAR had lost Dale Earnhardt”.

To this day my skin still crawls when I see the replays of that day. Tears still well in my eyes to see pictures of Dale and Jr. together. The things that my mind thinks of when I hear Jr. talk about his dad. The respect that the entire organization that is NASCAR had for one man. Today is a day for all NASCAR fans to remember that we lost a legend on the track that day doing things his way. Not trying to win the race but trying to make sure that his team, his company, and his son had a day to remember. Still he never saw it happen and that is a crying shame.

To you Dale Earnhardt, we are forever in your debt as NASCAR fans. We wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for you and men like you that made this sport what it is today. I just hope that when you look down from heaven on Sunday afternoons and you see what has become of the sport that you gave everything to including your life that you are proud of what you see. God Bless you Intimidator!

Home from Alabama

Getting up this morning at 8am sucked. I really didn't want to drive home especially all by myself. I was getting use to being in Florida. Heck a week into a vacation you are practically on a schedule. I always have so much fun with my Aunt Tiffany and Uncle Charlie. This week was definitely no different. We ended up going to the Gatorade Duels, Camping World Truck Series Race, and the Nationwide Series Race.The Daytona 500 was out of the question since we had my cousin Noah's 1st birthday party. But it's okay! I'm glad I didn't go. I would have been pissed if I paid all that money for tickets and ended up not being able to see the whole race. Plus, Dale Jr had a horrible day. Now that I am home it's back to the real world. I am going back to work tomorrow, and starting on the job hunt again. I worked hard for my Orthopedic degree, and I really want to be able to use it.

Home to Alabama Tomorrow

Early tomorrow morning, I am making the trip back to Alabama and I am really sad. I came down here in hopes of getting the Ortho tech job in Gainesville, and I am leaving without it. I am really upset and hurt. I thought I would get it. I have the degree, the skills, and the passion. However I didn't get it because I don't live down here yet. Have they ever heard of relocation? I have people willing to give me a place to stay until I get on my feet. I'm crushed. I do know that it makes some people happy. My friends didn't want me to even think about this job. They saw it as me running away. Well, I hope they are happy! Their wishes were granted. I even had one of my socalled friends tell me they prayed I didn't get it. Isn't that sick! They obviously don't want me happy. Oh well. I'll survive! Back to trying to find a job so I can actually use my degree that I worked so hard to get.

Problems for Dale Jr at Daytona

Dale Earnhardt, Jr struggled in the pits, wrecked a good chunk of the field on a restart and could have been penalized for spinning Brian Vickers.

NASCAR’s most famous driver had a far-from-normal run in the Daytona 500, at times looking more like a rookie than one of the sport’s best restrictor-plate racers.

He finished 27th in Sunday’s rain-shortened season-opener, hardly the start he wanted in his second year with powerhouse Hendrick Motorsports.

“We were good. I just had some bad luck,” Earnhardt said. “Every time I would get to the front, there was something that took me to the back, whether it was something I would do or something else. But I had a great car. I could run up in the top five all night.”

Maybe so, but problems overshadowed prowess.

They started when Earnhardt missed his pit stall early. He had to drive the entire length of pit road, then circle the 2 1/2 -mile tri-oval before getting the car back to his crew.

He said part of the issue was his pit sign was pink, a color that was supposed to stand out. Instead, several other teams used a similar color, making it difficult to find his spot.

It got worse.

On a later pit stop, Earnhardt stopped with his right-front tire barely touching the outside line of his stall and incurred a one-lap penalty.

“A lap for that is ridiculous,” he said. “If somebody’s pitting outside the box, what’s the big gain that they need a lap taken from them?”

The penalty forced him to line up inside the leaders on the restart, where Earnhardt triggered a nine-car accident that knocked rival Kyle Busch and several others out of the race.

Earnhardt was trying to pass Vickers, also a lap down. Vickers blocked the move by pushing Earnhardt down below the yellow out-of-bounds line. He hit Earnhardt in the process, and when Earnhardt re-entered the racing surface, he clipped the left-rear corner of Vickers’ car. That sent Vickers shooting across the track and into others.

“I was working real hard to get my lap back,” Earnhardt said. “I had a really, really good run on Brian. He drove me down almost into the grass below the line. I didn’t have much control over my car at that point. I was just trying to get back on the race track and hit him in the quarter-panel and spun him out. If he would have just held his ground, we would have been all right. That was unfortunate.”

Vickers and Busch weren’t ready to forgive Earnhardt.

Vickers questioned why NASCAR didn’t penalize Earnhardt for aggressive driving, particularly since it issued a five-lap penalty to Jason Leffler in Saturday’s Nationwide Series race for a similar incident.

“I beat him to the yellow line and then he just turned us,” Vickers said. “Typically, NASCAR penalizes (for that). I guess they’re not going to penalize (Earnhardt) for it. It’s kind of sad. To wreck somebody intentionally like that in front of the entire field is really kind of dangerous. That’s my problem with it. Apparently, he wanted a caution pretty bad.”

Three-time defending series champion Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch, Robby Gordon, Denny Hamlin, Jamie McMurray, Scott Speed and Carl Edwards also were caught up in the accident.

Kyle Busch, though, might have had the most to lose. Busch led a race-high 88 laps before the melee.

“One guy that had problems all day long on pit road and made his problems our problems and our problems a big problem,” Busch said. “It’s just unfortunate with that, and it was really uncalled for two lapped cars to be racing each other and bumping each other like that.”

Earnhardt staunchly defended himself. He even got on the radio and said, “Tell Vickers if he wants to meet me in the garage and get his (butt) beat, I’d be willing.”

“Message delivered,” crew chief Tony Eury Jr. responded.

Earnhardt had calmed down considerably by the time he got out of his car and headed for his pits.

“He ain’t too happy about it, but what the hell, man?” Earnhardt said. “He was driving like a damn idiot. That’s not clever, smart driving. That’s ridiculous. It don’t look clean to me. I hate I wrecked him and everyone else that got in that wreck, but Brian ain’t no saint in the matter.”

Racing at Daytona

Today was an amazing day at the track. My Uncle Charlie, Aunt Tiffany, and I headed to Daytona International Speedway for the NASCAR Nationwide Series Camping World 300. Even though Dale Jr didn’t lead any laps, it was still exciting. Seeing Brad Keselowski and Brian Vickers leading was amazing. I thought either of them would win, but I was wrong. In his first start for Hendrick Motorsports, Tony Stewart started 5th and ended up taking the Checkered flag. He withstood a last-lap charge by Kyle Busch and then kept Carl Edwards behind him. I’m sure this was a great victory for Tony, who will have to start in rear of the field with his driver Ryan Newman, in tomorrow’s Daytona 500.

In NASCAR Sprint Cup Happy Hour today, Newman lost a right rear tire off turn 2 as the tire exploded, tearing the fender off. Newman spun and into the wall. Tony Stewart was behind Newman and slid sideways into Newman. Reed Sorenson, driver of the #43 McDonald’s Dodge Charger, was the fastest in final practice session before the Daytona 500.

Now, I will not be going to the 500 tomorrow which makes me very sad, however, I have enjoyed seeing the Gatorade Duels, Camping World Series Truck Race, and the Nationwide Series race today. I sure did pick a great weekend to come down.

Gatorade Duel 150's from Daytona

OMG! Today was such an exciting and fun day. Even though Dale Jr had a crappy day, he still was able to come back and finish 7th in his duel. He will now start 14th for the Daytona 500 on Sunday. Seeing cars on the track was awesome. It's been a VERY VERY VERY long off season. It's definitely going to take some getting use too seeing Tony Stewart in the Office Depot #14, Reed in a McDonald's car, and AJ in Petty Blue. Congratulations to Jeff Gordon for winning his duel. I hated seeing Kyle Busch win the 2nd duel. It made me sick to my stomach. However, I am really happy to see AJ Allmendinger make the 500. He had a hell of a car today and totally deserved this.

Interview and Gatorda Duals

Today was the day. I had my Interview with Orthopedic Institute. I think it went well. I had the chance to meet with 3 ladies who are sorta big and up in the company. They were all really impressed with my resume and background. One was in love with the fact that I have an Orthopedic tech. degree. She said that a majority of the people employed there do not have a degree. They all lean on each other if they have a problem. The HR lady said that I should hear something from them by the end of the week. Keep me in your thoughts! I want this job.

After my interview, I took the trip from Gainesville to Oveido to see my Aunt Tiffany and Uncle Charlie. Once I arrived there, I found out my Aunt had tickets to the Gatorade Duals. Well, I decided to get a ticket and go with her and her coworker. I am super excited. I've always wanted to go to a Dual race. Hopefully Dale Jr has a great day tomorrow!

I'll be sure to post pictures!!!!!!

Florida Bound

Early tomorrow morning, I am leaving for Florida. I am getting really excited. This is the first time I'll be making the trip by myself. I'm packed and my car is ready to hit the road. My first stop is in Jacksonville, Florida. My Aunt Toni and Uncle Mike live there and they have been gracious enough to let me stay with them and prep for my interview in Gainesville on Wednesday afternoon. Guess I need to climb into bed. 6am comes early. I've decided I want to be at my Aunts by 3pm. Hopefully while I'm there, I'll be able to see the newest addition to our family, Landon Michael. I'll blog as soon as I can tomorrow. Wish me luck!

25 Years for Hendrick Motorsports

The 2009 Sprint Cup Series is also the 25th Anniversary of Hendrick Motorsports. Back in 1984, Rick started out with one team and five full-time employees.Nowadays, Hendrick Motorsports employs over 500 people and has five teams.

In 25 years, they have celebrated 8 Sprint Cup Series championships, 3 Camping World Truck Series titles, 1 Nationwide Series crown, 175 Sprint Cup Series victories, 28 Nationwide Series wins, and 25 Camping World Truck Series victories. Also in 25 years, Rick has been able to have some of the best talent in the sport. These drivers including Geoff Bodine, Ricky Rudd,Terry Labonte, Todd Bodine, Kyle Busch, Casey Mears, Mark Martin, Darrell Waltrip, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Brian Vickers, David Green, Tim Richmond, Ken Schrader, Ricky Craven, Jerry Nadeau, Joe Nemechek, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr.


For the 2009 season some of the best talent in the sport will drive for Hendrick Motorsports including Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Mark Martin, Brad Keselowski, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Before the start of yesterday's Daytona 500 practice. 4 of the 5 drivers in the Hendrick Motorsports stable took to the track in specially designed silver cars, and posed for pictures. This will be a special season for Rick Hendrick and everyone at HMS. As a Dale Jr fan, I look foward to enjoying the 2009 season. Hopefully, it will include many victories by Dale Jr and who knows, even a championship. Congratulations Rick on 25 years!

Budweiser Shootout

It's the 1st race of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. No, it is not the Daytona 500 it's the Budweiser Shootout. Usually this race is for the drivers who won a pole in the previous season, but this year NASCAR decided to do something different. They decided to take the top5 drivers from each manufacture and let them into the race. Once the drivers list came out, I was really worried. A few drivers being listed were Paul Menard, Scott Speed, and Joey Logano. None of these drivers have a good record at Daytona or really any other track that the series visits. When the green flag dropped, it looked like Dale Jr was going to be the one to beat. However, Paul Menard and his no talent self had to wreck him and a few other drivers. This is what happens when daddy buys your seat. Too bad John Menard can't buy his son some driving lessons. You'd think with all the money he makes each year from his home improvement store, John would be able to hook his son up with some of the best professional driving schools money can buy. Poor Doug Yates! He'll be fixing a lot of cars this year. I'll always remember Dale Jr's quote from last year. In the middle of the season he said "before I retire I'm gonna put him in the wall." Now, I never wish a wreck on any driver, but I am so over Paul Menard. His lack of talent is really starting to hurt this sport. After this race, I hope Dale Jr has all his bad luck out while in Daytona. Now it's time for the 88 crew to fix this Budweiser Shootout car. It was an AMAZING car.

NASCAR Class Picture Day

I always look forward to NASCAR Media Day. Today is the day that NASCAR's top drivers are put in front of a microphone and asked the same question at least 50 times. I know it gets annoying for them, but I just love it. Also, they get to be in front of a camera for the pictures they'll use all season long. You get so many angles and poses. It's just unique! Today means NASCAR is back in action and it makes this girlie VERY excited. Tonight is the drawing for the Budweiser Shootout, which is Saturday night.

6 Days til My Life Could Change

I leave for Gainesville, Florida in 6 days. I am really excited and nervous at the same time. My life could change in a matter of minutes. I have a job interview at the Orthopedic Institute. This is the first job interview since getting my college degree. It is a big step. I've been waiting for this day for a long time. My only fear is actually getting the job and having to move. Am I really ready to be on my own? I like to pretend that I am, but what happens once I am out there. It means I really am going up. I'll have to make all new friends. Something I am not very good at. I keep playing the job interview in my head. 6 days! My life could change in just 6 days. Say a prayer. I definitely would love this job.

25 Random Things About ME

1. I have Osteoarthritis and when it rains, I have to call into work because I can't function like a normal human being.

2. I recently got acrylic nails and am loving every minute of them.

3. After bashing the Twilight series, I decided to pick up the 1st book and read it. Wouldn't you know, I actually enjoyed it.

4. I always wanted to join the Marines, but because of my ankle, I wasn't allowed too.

5. My favorite scent at Bath and Body Works is Sea Island Cotton.

6. Cinderella is my favorite Disney Princess.

7. Even though I am not a girlie girl, I want a girlie wedding complete with the fairytale dress.

8. I keep my Tennessee Volunteers Snowman up all year long.

9. I have a bad addiction to Conversation Hearts.

10. Currently, I am taking part in a survey from the University of Denver.

11. I have some clothes in my closet that still have the price tag on them.

12. I have over 50 photo albums filled of NASCAR pictures that I've taken.

13. I still have my 2008 calendar on the wall.

14. I cried when Leonardo DiCaprio didn't get nominated for an Oscar for his role in Titanic.

15. I am addicted to Red Bull.

16. I could stay in bed all day and not give a damn about being lazy.

17. I did a happy dance when Dale Jr left DEI.

18. I have to make a list on what I want to pack when I go on a trip so I don't forget anything.

19. I love my iPod a little too much.

20. I always carry a digital camera with me.

21. I currently have a CD stuck in my CD player in the car.

22. I have a beer coozie that says High Maintenance.

23. I've had the same pillow for 5 years.

24. I still sleep with a teddy bear.

25. I have a Reed Sorenson trashcan.

18 Kids and Counting

The Duggars are what is wrong with middle America.And they just keep breeding.

The Duggars aren't teaching their children much about sex or relationships. And their first son just married a girl he doesn't know very well. Can you say sexual deprivation?

They've shielded their kids from reality for so long that they don't have a concept of normality. Normal for them is eighteen children and Wal-Mart shopping trips. Normal, for the Duggars, is dressing their daughters in long skirts and teaching them to cook and clean while the boys run wild. Normal for them is following their 20 year old son out on dates and forbidding him to kiss his fiancée until their wedding day. Normal for them is handing their grown son a book on how to mate with his spouse.

Yes. I know this is America, where you can raise your kids however you damn well please.
But let's be realistic.

The driving idea behind raising your children to be religious is that they will have a built-in moral compass when faced with "evil" forces. Like, I don't know, birth control, or rock music. The idea is to strengthen your kids so that they will not crumble in the face of cable television and internet porn.

What do you really achieve by hiding your kids from the world?

You end up raising lost little lambs who don't understand society. You raise kids that get married as soon as possible to people they barely know, just so that they may have some sexual release. You raise your children to victimize themselves.

Show your kids the world. Make them understand what it is--a place filled with temptation and challenges that can be overcome without fear. Show them that the world is vast and diverse, and that not everything different is dangerous.

Here are a few of my other reasons for disliking the Duggar parents:

-18 children leave one hell of an ecological footprint. Maybe right now they are living in a mildly green manner, but each one of those kids will grow up and use fossil fuels, water, and landfill space. Worse, they've been raised with a "be fruitful and multiply like it's a hobby" mindset, so they will each probably have a ton of kids. Do you see the cycle?

-The Duggars *admittedly* use a "buddy system" in which each older child is assigned a younger child to care for. Do you see what this really is? With 18 kids, it's not just the occasional diaper change or bottle-feeding, it's a 24 hour a day parenting job being handed to a 12 or 13 year old girl. Who takes care of the babies while Michelle is teaching homeschool and Jim Bob is at work? Are you telling me those infants are placed somewhere quiet so that the older children may learn? Or is there really little actual schooling going on? When your 12 year old daughter is raising *your* child, something is out of whack.

A quote from the show: "At age 11, JoyAnna has changed more dirty diapers than the average father of four."

-Currently, thousands of adoptable children sit in foster care. Most will remain there until the age of 18, after which they will be thrust into society with little preparation. I know this because I have seen it. I work with the tragic results of the foster system every day. The Duggars could have adopted three foster children and saved them years of pain and struggle, instead they chose to breed like hamsters and bring 18 more children into the world.

I dislike these two people because they show no real loyalty to the planet or even the human race. They breed. They consume. At the end of the day, they are treated as heroes for what really amounts to pigheaded self-worship. Sure, they have no debt, and those babies are awful pretty, but the rest of us will pay the consequences for the Duggar family's shortsightedness for hundreds of years.