Two Words - Hazel Karma

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Red Sox West and Red Sox West II (Jr.?) are tied for the lead in the N.L. West, and two games ahead of the Phillies in the Wild Card. I don't know if Hazel gives a rat's ass about the race in the N.L. West, but I'm calling on her to send a little bit of good karma out to the Dodgers in San Francisco today. Hazel didn't catch "Nomah" in Boston in 2004 - but she was there when Derek Lowe started to pick it up, and during the playoffs when he gave the Sox everything he had. I'm hoping for a repeat - just on the West Coast this time...c'mon Hazel, help out those former Red Sox - eradicate the Curse of Grady Little.

That's about all I've got this am - still fighting the "man cold", but I've got to get down to my favourite watering hole to fill in my NFL pool picks for the week - guests coming over tonight, so lots to do. Enjoy your Saturday gang - have a great one Peeps.

HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
Everything may appear to be unstable but, if you are diligent, you will be able to hold your ground. Discipline, fair play and determination will keep you on track and headed toward success. Don't let an emotional partner lead you off course. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Stand Inside Your Love - Smashing Pumpkins

"Who wouldn't be the one you love?
Who wouldn't stand inside your love?"

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Lemon Tea, Sugar & Moonshine

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I'm going to make my NFL picks against the spread; with the caveat that I've been drinking "Portuguese Lemon Tea" to fight this man cold. If you are Portuguese, you know the drill - slice up a lemon and boil it; add two teaspoons of sugar to the lemon water and a shot (or two) of Portuguese moonshine. If you are reading this from New England or Toronto, you should know all about Aguardente (moonshine), if you are a fellow Lusitano - you've had it...more than once!

Drink the tea down and have a chaser of a good Port wine - not the vintage stuff, that's for special occasions. So, I've had a few mugs of lemon tea and a a couple of Port chasers. It may be the moonshine talking - but I like this week's picks.

16) Jacksonville -2.5 over WASHINGTON. The Jags came off a tough loss to Indianapolis, so you know they will be fired up to take out their frustrations on the Redskins. The Redskins have failed to show that they can score against a good defence, and Jacksonville's is as good as any in the league. The Jags stuff Portis and chase down Brunnell.

15) BUFFALO -1.5 over Minnesota. The Bills defence comes up big and stuffs a very ordinary Vikings offence. The Bills will play field position offence and let their defence set up the scores. Minnesota hasn't shown much this year - and I can't see the Bills going 0-2 at home.

14) CHICAGO -3.5 over Seattle. Shaun Alexander isn't playing, so that means Matt Hasselbeck is in for a long night. Bears defence stuffs the Seahawks offence and put Grossman in good field position all night.

13) ST. LOUIS -5.5 over Detroit. How many times do I have to say it? Detroit is just plain bad. After what Favre did to the Lions, I'll take Bulger over Kitna. St. Louis' offence will have a big day against Detroit.

12) BALTIMORE +2.5 over San Diego. Two evenly matched teams - very good defences, good running game and a decent passing game. The difference is going to be McNair's experience over Rivers; it will be a close game, but Baltimore wins outright.

11) CAROLINA -7.5 over New Orleans. New Orleans had their fun on Monday night - it all ends on Sunday. Julius Peppers is going to be in Drew Brees' face all afternoon. Its time for the Saints to come back down to earth...nice start to the season though.

10) Dallas -9.5 over TENNESSEE. Put the T.O. drama aside; Parcells is going to have Big D ready to play on Sunday. Look for DeMarcus Ware to have a big game of D and Terry Glenn to have a big one on offence. I'd be surprised if Tennessee gets into the end zone.

09) ATLANTA -7.5 over Arizona. After their poor showing on Monday night - look for Atlanta to run the ball at Arizona and wear them down. Atlanta's quick D will be in the backfield every time Warner drops back to pass. Countdown to Matt Leinhart begins on Sunday.

08) Indianapolis -9.5 over NY JETS. The Jets have had a couple of decent games - but they haven't been up against the likes of Indy's offence. I don't think the Jets can score enough points to stay close in this one.

07) San Francisco +6.5 over KANSAS CITY. The 49ers have proven they can put points on the board - Damon Huard hasn't yet proven that. The difference in the game is Larry Johnson - Kansas controls the clock and wins a close one against San Fran. Like I said yesterday, I think Kansas City wins (yes, sucking up to Hazel), I just don't think they'll cover (and Hazel won't care - and she probably won't see this...its the weekend). Oh fine - forgive me Hazel for I have sinned.

06) Green Bay +11.5 over PHILADELPHIA. I've got Philly as my suicide pick in both pools - they'll win, but I just see one of those backdoor covers in what is likely Favre's last Monday night game. Philly's defence hasn't exactly been dominant this year.

05) New England +6.5 over CINCINNATI. Ok, I'm sucking up to Hazel again by picking the Patriots. The Pats are in disarray, but there is no way they should be 6.5 point underdogs; they'll keep this one close.

04) HOUSTON +3.5 over Miami. The more I think about this game - the more I see a Houston win. I'm not trusting Culpepper to win by four on the road - a field goal at most. Houston has some weapons on offence, so they'll keep this one interesting.

03) OAKLAND +2.5 over Cleveland. I'm taking a flyer on this game - I just have thinking Cleveland can win on the road. The Raiders are bad, no question, but they have to win a few games this year.

There you have it gang...I like this week's picks - moonshine, port and all. DJames, if you are checking in...check your mail - there will be a nice surprise there tomorrow. Have a great one peeps...remember, get your picks in!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - have a great weekend.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps -

For the way I've been feeling this week - The Sick Bed Of Cuchulainn - The Pogues

For the way I feel tonight - Whiskey You're The Devil - The Pogues

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Straight Up On The NFL

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

After a great Week 2, my picks in Week 3 were awful - so I'm here to make up for it. Tonight, I'm doing the Straight-Up Pool picks. I should probably shut my pie-hole about liking this week's games - but as my pal Renee would attest to, I never know when to shut up. So here they are - weighted as usual.

14) PHILADELPHIA over Green Bay - I can't see the Eagles and that Chunky Soup lovin' mama's boy McNabb losing to the Packers this week. Yes, Favre is coming off a Hazie weekend - but that was against the awful Lions; the Eagles won't lose on Monday night. This pick is more about how bad I still think Green Bay is, vs any silly thoughts that the Eagles are a contender. I picked the Eagles in the suicide pool.

13) Dallas over TENNESSEE - Forget about the T.O. drama in Dallas this week. The Cowboys are coming off a bye-week and Parcells will have them ready to steamroll the Titans. DeMarcus Ware has a big game on Sunday; I'm predicting at least two sacks for Ware.

12) Indianapolis over NY JETS - The Colts just have too much for the Jets - too much offence, too much special teams, and enough defence to get the job done. Pennington has put up some good numbers - much of it in games when the Jets were out - but he won't be able to keep up with Manning.

11) CAROLINA over New Orleans - The Saints have been the feel good story of the year - I just think they are primed for an emotional letdown. Carolina's hopes for the playoffs go up in smoke if they lose on Sunday...won't happen. By the way, I still hate them.

10) ATLANTA over Arizona - Ron Mexico rebounds after a tough Monday night. Vick and Dunn run at the Cardinals all day on Sunday, and keep Fitzgerald and Boldin off the field. The experts were wrong again - the Cardinals aren't going to be a playoff team.

09) ST. LOUIS over Detroit - I learned my lesson last week - Detroit is just plain bad. St. Louis is playing better than people expected; Detroit is worse than people expected. One last thought, Bulger vs. Kitna...see my point?

08) KANSAS CITY over San Francisco - Damon Huard showed me something against the Broncos - he can manage a game. K.C. pounds Larry Johnson all afternoon, and Huard gets a few big plays from play action. I can't see San Fran winning at Arrowhead with the Chiefs coming off a bye week. Ok, I'm sucking up to Hazel for picking against them two weeks ago.

07) CINCINNATI over New England - I can't leave well enough alone - I try to get back into Hazel's good books by picking the Chiefs; now I'm likely to wind up back in the doghouse for picking the Bengals. Something isn't quite right with New England - they'll get it together by year's end...but there is going to be some short-term pain with that secondary. Forgive me Hazel for I have sinned...

06) CHICAGO over Seattle - Statement game for the Bears; its one thing to beat up on the NFC North, they need to show up against a contender. The injury to Shawn Alexander helps Chicago's cause, they are going to pin their ears back and come after Hasselbeck. Grossman manages Chicago to a win by playing field position.

05) Jacksonville over WASHINGTON - don't be fooled by the Redskins, that was the Texans they played last week. Jacksonville comes off a tough loss to the Colts, and they are going to make Brunnell pay. Washington's playoff aspirations end on Sunday.

04) BALTIMORE over San Diego - I don't think Phillip Rivers has seen anything quite like the Ravens D - McNair has seen it all. This is going to be a field goal game, and I'll take the Ravens at home.

03) Miami over Houston - the more I think about this game, the more I like Houston - but I figure Culpepper has to have ONE big game this season, might as well be against Houston. Miami's defence will be the difference I think, in other words, I'm not trusting Culpepper.

02) BUFFALO over Minnesota - J.P. Losman vs. Brad Johnson...yuck. The Bills defence will be the difference in this one. The Bills won't start the season 0-2 at home will they?

01) OAKLAND over Cleveland - Oakland is bad, no question. But someone tell me how Cleveland is favoured on the road? Oakland is going to win a few games this year...they have to - Moss imposes himself in this one.

There you have it gang. There are a lot of easy ones this week - but I like these picks. I think the only one that would get me in trouble with "you know who" is the Cincinnati pick. Check back tomorrow or Saturday for the Spreads picks. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - these guys have "U2" kind of feeling to them...check them out, its worth the download...their U.S. Release was last week.

Into Your Hideout - Pilot Speed

Peesth Out - Buh Bye!

October Here We Come

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The final weekend of the season and all eyes are on the National League. Red Sox West and Red Sox West II are neck and neck for the N.L. West title - the Philadelphia Phillies are 2.0 games behind Red Sox West (Dodgers) - looks like the N.L. will send two teams into the post-season.

Newsmakers from MLB yesterday, with a decidely Red Sox (Hazel) flavour:

• James Loney had a huge day in Colorado - hitting two HRs and driving in nine runs in a win over the Rockies...he was replacing NOMAH;
  
• Miguel Tejada reached 100 RBI for the sixth straight season - bet he'd look good in a Sox uniform, hitting behind Ortiz huh? (if Manny goes)
  
• Pedro Martinez will miss the rest of the season and the playoff with a calf injury - bet Red Sox Nation is having a good chuckle over that one.

That's about it for this morning - have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Your Aries ability to get things done will astound the people around you. Focus, discipline and hard work will bring the returns you are looking for and more. Make contact and get answers. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - enjoy your NFL weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Dani California - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Hazel Karma?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

This man-cold is still killing me.

Ok, I'm here talking about Hazel Karma again - things that make you go "hmmmmm".

• Dodgers win in Colorado - Derek Lowe gets the win, Andre Eithier knocks in the winning run...BOTH are members of Hazel Mae's Hackers in Yahoo pool;
  
  
• St. Louis gets a 3 run HR from Albert Pujols to beat San Diego...Albert Pujols is a member of Hazel Mae's Hackers;
  
  
• A morning check of the yahoo standings sees the Hackers moving back up into second place over Renee's naughty girls.
  

Still not convinced? How about this - yesterday afternoon, I went to go replace the cell phone I lost in Toronto. I'm talking to "my cell phone guy" and I'm telling him I don't want to spend a lot of money. He calls one of his sales guys over to talk to me - the dude's friend is selling the exact same phone as mine for a hundred bucks! The guy could have sold me a new phone for 300 and he gave up the sale to get me a great deal with one of his salesmen's friend's phone.

Hazel Karma? I don't know...but I'd like to think so! Have a great one peeps. DJames, if you are checking in, the pics will be sent later tonight - thank you man!

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Set the stage for the way you want things to unfold today. You can make things happen according to your agenda by taking control. A partnership can be rekindled or taken to a higher level. 5 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for my friend Renee who checked in this morning after a long absence

Where'd Ya Go - Fort Minor

Where'd ya go
I missed you so
Seems like its been forever
Since you've been gone

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

The Hazies - NFL

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I still have a bugger of a man-cold, but there is only so much garbage you can watch on television - except for Rescue Me of course (since we don't get NESN's SportsDesk up here).

Time to recap this week's Hazies from the NFL - I know, a man-cold is no excuse for doggin' it. Week 3 of the NFL was a bad one for me, which was well documented last week - there weren't nearly as many dominant performances last week as there were in the first two weeks. Some old-timers made the grade this week and get to pick up some hardware and shake hands with Hazel.

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HEROES

Brett Favre of the Packers shredded the Detroit Lions on Sunday. Favre, who many thought to be washed up (myself included), was 25/36 for 340 yards and 3 TD passes - including a 75 yard TD pass to Greg Jennings...remember what we say here, "Chicks dig the long ball." I know, Detroit is awful - but we thought the Packers would be too.

Mark Brunnell of the Redskins did a number on the Texans. Brunnell was 24/27 for 261 yards and 1 TD - what made the performance all the more notable was that he completed 22 passes in a row. After the way he looked against the Cowboys it was a nice rebound for Brunnell - even if he plays for the stinkin' Redskins. As with Detroit, Houston stinks - so don't get too excited in Washington.

Brian Westbrook of the Eagles had a huge day in San Francisco. Westbrook rushed for 117 yards on eight carries, including a 71 yard TD run, and caught four passes for 47 yards and another TD. Another team I love to hate - but I have to give it up to Brian since he was on the bench this week for Hazel Mae's Cowboys.

Javon Walker of the Broncos lit up the Patriots secondary on Sunday night (sorry Hazel). Walker caught three passes for 130 yards and 2 TDs - including one that went for 83 yards. We think Hazel was in Toronto on Sunday and enjoying a Sunday night off - so she might not have watched that one...she might be making plans for the 2007 China Bowl between her two favourite teams, Kansas City and New England.

Torry Holt of the Cardinals had a big day against the Cardinals in Phoenix. Holt caught 8 passes for 120 yards and a TD. Unlike the Texans, Lions and 49ers - who were torched last weekend - Arizona was supposed to be good this year.

T.J. Houshmanzadeh helped the Bengals beat Cowher and the Steelers on Sunday. T. J. (I don't want to spell his last name again) caught 9 passes for 94 yards and 2 TDs. Nice to see the Steelers fall - I still think they are counterfeit.

That's about it for tonight's Hazies. But what would Wednesday be without a recap of the Weird & Whacked? You didn't think I had abondoned the Wednesday entry did you? The NFL was front and center today.

Terrell Owens did not, REPEAT - DID NOT, try to commit suicide. Owens was rushed to hospital on Tuesday night after a reaction to pain killers. Police and the media speculated that it was a suicide attempt - but Owens said it was a case of mixing pain killers with dietary supplements. The T.O. side show has stopped in Dallas - can the Tuna manage him? I think so...as a Cowboys' fan, I sure has hell hope so. I had one question during today's news - how many football players have a freakin' publicist? This had to be a stunt.

Terrence Kiel of the San Diego Chargers was arrested on felony drug charges for shipping perscriptoin cough syrup. The DEA says abuse of codeine-based cough syrup is widespread in Texas, as kids are mixing it with soft drinks or other drugs. If you ask me, I think they are just using the syrup to make Flaming Homers.

Ricky Manning Jr. of the Bears pleaded "No Contest" to a felony assault charge. Manning Jr. claims he doesn't want to go through a trial during the season and wants to take care of it and just play football - he was quick to point out he didn't admit to anything. Ricky doesn't want his fate in the hands of a jury - he should know, he's been down this road before...but he didn't do it that time either.

Odell Thurman of the Cincinnati Bengals has been told to "Get out...and stay out!" by the NFL. Thurman, already under suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, was suspended for the rest of the season after being arrested and charged with drunk driving. So much for Mike Brown's "standards" for his team. This may come as a shocker - but Bengals' WR Chris Henry was in the car while Thurman was bombin' around town drunk.

That's about it for tonight gang - the codeine laced cough syrup is kicking in...I got my fix from Terrence Kiel - kidding! Have a great one.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - I'm mounting a letter/email campaign to Maxim to reconsider their 10 sexiest newscasters list...how dare they not include you?

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - because my Nyquil is starting to take effect

And It Stoned Me - Van Morrison

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Toronto The Not So Good

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Man cold - another thing I picked up in Toronto this past weekend; feeling like I've been hit by a truck.

Wednesday morning headlines:

Dodgers move into lead in the Wild Card race - still two behind the Padres;

Bad day in Champions League for both Portuguese teams - Benfica and FC Porto both fall to English clubs. To put things in perspective - these matchups are like teams with the budget of the Kansas City Royals playing teams with budget of the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox...the little guys win once in a while, but its tough.

Time to go medicate myself and get my ass into work. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
Join forces with someone you love, trust or want to form a partnership with. This is the perfect day to talk commitment, deals or even money issues that may have caused problems in the past. 5 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Love Her Madly - The Doors

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Six Games & Counting

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Red Sox West dropped 2 games behind the Padres last night, but up into a tie for the Wild Card with the Phillies. Three in Colorado and three in San Francisco this week - they had better sweep one and win the other if they want to make it into the playoffs. Hazel Karma?

Week 3 of the NFL is over and I couldn't be happier - it was an awful week to say the least; capped off by an awful performance by Ron Mexico and the Falcons last night.

NHL teams are starting to really cut down their rosters - I'll have to have my man Johnny join the page as a hockey writer.

Lastly, Champions League today and its all about Portugal vs. England - Benfica of Lisbon host Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United today in Lisbon; while FC Porto travels to London to play Arsenal...more Hazel Karma?

Ok gang, I've got to book - have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
A partnership won't run smoothly, making you question why you are in this relationship in the first place. An idea you have regarding money and finance should be kept a secret but put into play on the sly. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world and that your hometown was good to you this past weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - because its her birthday today...

Dip It Low - Christina Milian

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

The Hazies - Baseball

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you who haven't been here before, Monday night entries take a look back at the week or so that was in the world of sports, highlighting some of the more notable performances. To those who have risen above the rest, we award them with an honourary "Hazie" - the lucky few have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially approved this week's winners, we'd like to think she would give her trademark smile and thumbs up.

Tonight we'll have Hazel handing out the hardware to the winners from Major League Baseball - this week's awards definitely have a Hazel connection.

HAZEL'S HEROES

David Ortiz of the Boston Red Sox hit his 53rd HR of the season over the weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays. The significance of the HR was that he tied the legendary Babe Ruth for most HRs on the road in a single season with his 32nd. I had the chance to watch the man take batting practice on Saturday - if there is a player in the Majors who is larger than life, it has to be Big Papi. I'm sure Hazel would be down with giving Big Papi another Hazie - that has to be 10+ by now.

Trevor Hoffman of the San Diego Padres moved into first place on the all-time saves list with his 479th career save. I won't hold it against him that he is a member of the first-place Padres - he is on one of my Roto League teams - Hazel Mae's Hackers.

Nomar Garciaparra of the Los Angeles Dodgers (aka Red Sox West) hit a walk-off Grand Slam yesterday against the Arizona Diamondbacks - making it two walk off shots in less than a week (think Nomar has been talking to Big Papi?). In case you were wondering, Nomar is on Hazel Mae's Hackers in the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool in the yahoo group.

Matt Holliday of the Colorado Rockies (and Hazel Mae's Hackers) was named co-winner of the National League Player of the Week. Holliday hit .400 with 4 HRs and 12 RBI for the week - with a slugging percentage of 1.080 and an on-base percentage of .545.

Andruw Jones of the Atlanta Braves was also honoured by the National League. Jones hit .409 with 5 HRs and 12 RBI - with a slugging percentage of 1.182 and an on-base percentage of .533. In case you were wondering - yes Jones killed two Pro-Line tickets for me this week.

Torii Hunter of the Minnesota Twins (and Hazel Mae's Hackers) was named co-winner of the American League Player of the Week. Hunter hit .423 with 3 HRs and 9 RBI - Hazel likely saw Hunter beat up on the Red Sox last week.

Raul Ibanez of the Seattle Mariners shared the American League award with Hunter. Ibanez finished the week hitting .423 with 3 HRs, 7 RBI and a slugging percentage of .758.

Told you this week's winners had a Hazel connection. Honourable mention this week goes to my man Jae. A few weeks back I told him I wanted to see the Sox and Jays - he got the tickets off of EBay, booked the hotel and joined me for what was a pretty damn good adventure (with some disappointments along the way) - I didn't have to ask twice, he just did it. Jae - I don't know if Hazel would OK this one, but buddy - I'm giving you a Hazie...thank you man, I owe you.


NOT SO HEROIC

It has been a while since we have done the "Not So Heroic" here on Thoughts of Hazel Mae - but I have two nominees this week - they aren't in the Majors, but they are major league jackasses.

Cell Phone Dude in Toronto. To the jerk who found my phone and didn't return it - thanks for nothing. Any normal person would have checked the home number on the phone, looked at the pictures stored in the phone and realized that the phone was important to someone. You didn't call any of the numbers to try and find the owner (who you had to have known was from out of town) to return the damn phone - you decided to keep it and download a few applications with it (which I'll get on my next bill) - even with the services cancelled on the phone, you have not returned it, that makes you the king/queen of all a-holes.

I know you'll probably never see this - but as I like to think there is Hazel Karma, in your case I hope there is bad Hazel Karma...and I hope it roasts your dumb ass; some how, some way.

Mystery Caller in Boston. I like to read Gordon Edes of the Globe in Boston. Today, Mr. Edes published a mailbag in response to an article he wrote on why he thinks it is time for Boston to trade Manny Ramirez. He is easily one of the more accessible journalists around - answering questions on his mailbag, making his email address accessible and participating in real-time chats with fans in Boston. With all of these opportunities to contact him to voice his displeasure with the column - some jerk decided to call Mr. Edes residence (knowing full well that Edes was in Toronto covering the Sox series). Dude, you are running neck and neck with cell phone dude in Toronto for jackass of the year - with the latter will likely never see this, I hope that you do. I hope bad Hazel Karma roasts your ass too.

Ok, as MLB heads into the last week of the season its time to declare the winner in the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool on yahoo. It was a good season, but our man Sparky's Bronx Zoo has been in first place since May and I am conceeding victory on what was a fun and eventful season in the pool. Things haven't changed much this week - Renee and I are fighting for second place.

88.5 - The Bronx Zoo - owned by Sparky. Who got his shout out on the Hazelspeeps home page on yahoo - along with a picture of our trophy.

75.5 - Hazel Mae's Hackers - owned by El Presidente (me) who is recovering from a weekend in Toronto.

70.0 - Naughty Girls - owned by Renee, who hasn't been seen or heard from in a while - maybe working the NHL waiver wire for the Hockey Pool.

60.0 - Shuggysux - owned by Pogue (the other Pogue).

57.0 - GB Steam Boys - owned by George who is still studying hard.

51.0 - Tina's Team - owned by Tina who is doing ok in the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Football Pool.

41.0 - Tom Sawyer - owned by Hubie who didn't show up this past weekend.

38.5 - Fighting Bobcats - owned by Commish Drisc who is 3-0 in the Football pool and kicked Hazel Mae's Cowboys around this week.

38.0 - Banana Peels - owned by the Golden Banana.

30.5 - Leprachauns - owned by Irish who cracked the 30 point barrier this week.

There you have it...that's it for tonight - Ron Mexico and the Falcons have ensure my worst week ever picking NFL pools. Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - on a cool, dark, rainy night

Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

I Hate The NFL

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Who can figure out this damn league? Prognosticators who claim to have a 70%+ success rate are full of it. I officially threw my hands up yesterday after watching the Patriots lose to the Broncos. I don't even want to think about the scores in my pools.

Running late - have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S MONDAY HOROSCOPE
A change going on around you will lead to a way out of a sticky situation. Be quick to take advantage and make your move. Someone who feels the need to direct you will ask questions. Do what you consider most beneficial for you. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps -

Monday Morning - Skydiggers

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Rough Weekend

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I'm back from Toronto - the Red Sox and Jays game yesterday was a pretty good game, considering neither team has much to play for. Red Sox Nation was out in force yesterday at the Rogers Centre - there had to be 5,000 Red Sox fans there, and they were as loud (if not louder than the Jays fans). I have to hand it to Red Sox Nation, you people support your team through the good and bad - brings a tear to a lifelong Maple Leafs fan...I feel a kinship with Red Sox Nation.

The game yesterday was definitely one of the high points of what turned out to be a pretty tough weekend.

Traffic getting in to Toronto was a nightmare, which cancelled out any chance of heading over to the Rogers Centre and getting tickets for Friday's game.

I lost my damn cell phone on Friday night, only to find out Saturday that the jerk who picked it up was downloading stuff off the internet - I can't tell you how pissed I was (still am). The worst thing of it was that I was expecting a very important (I mean HUGE) call while I was at the game - I swear, that is the kind of luck I have.

What kind of jerk doesn't return a cell phone? Especially after getting text messages asking that the phone please be returned because there were some very important pictures on it. Dude (dudette) I know you will likely never read this - but YOU SUCK the big one; I hope this bad karma comes back to haunt you and roasts your stupid ass.

Traffic getting out of Toronto was a nightmare with the marathon being run there today. What should have been a four and a half hour drive ended up taking six.

My NFL Sunday was a complete write-off - after going 13 and 3 last week, I don't even want to look at my pools this week. The only thing to save the day today was that the stinking Miami Dolphins managed to pull one out of the fire to keep my alive in both suicide pools. Nick Saban, your team is in BIG trouble.

Plenty of crappy things about this weekend - but how can you complain about a weekend in one of the world's great cities? Two great nights out, great meals (the sushi place we went to was out of this world - Hazel would have loved it), good bars to hoist a couple dozen guinness, and a great day of baseball at the Rogers Centre. There were some shaky moments this weekend - the kind that could threaten your whole trip - but I can't complain. I'm calling it a great weekend, even with the bad luck.

Ok, I'm going to watch the Pats and Broncos - have a great one peeps. I'll try to post some pics of the game tomorrow night. I know this is too late...but here it goes anyways:

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
Don't let talks turn into an argument. Stay cool and don't let anyone get to you today. Taking a short trip will help to alleviate tension. A serious matter concerning younger or older family members will have to be dealt with swiftly. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - I hope your time back home is going well...the city still misses you - the damn country does too.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - for stretches of our six our drive today

Gypsy Blood - Mason Ruffner

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

No Rhyme Or Reason

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

What a night of sleep will do after a long day of work. I had to submit picks for my straight up pool last night - today is the spreads pool, and it looks a little different.

16) Chicago -3.5 over MINNESOTA - The Bears defence will rule the day; Minnesota couldn't get anything done against Carolina, its only going to get worse against Chicago.

15) Atlanta -3.5 over NEW ORLEANS - Ron Mexico and Warrick Dunn get it done against a bad Saints defence. The emotion of the Saints return is a great story - Falcons win though.

14) Baltimore -6.5 over CLEVELAND - The Ravens' defence could wind up outscoring the Browns offence.

13) ARIZONA - 4.5 over St. Louis - This might be the year Arizona accomplishes something - St. Louis won't.

12) Washington -3.5 over HOUSTON - Clinton Portis' return saves Washington from going 0 and 3. Washington's defence will stuff the Texans.

11) DETROIT -6.5 over Green Bay - Detroit is bad, Green Bay is awful. This game is ugly - which means the Lions will likely come out looking like world-beaters. Ok, I don't know, I'm just picking it.

10) NEW ENGLAND -6.5 over Denver - Denver hasn't shown much this year, New England has shown just enough; it all ends Sunday night. Brady has a big game, Plummer is himself and the Patriots win by 13. Hazel Karma hits Foxboro - if Pats fans are lucky, so will she!

09) INDIANAPOLIS -6.5 over Jacksonville - The Colts will lose this year; but not to a team with no offence, coming off a Monday Night game. No way I'm taking Leftwich over Manning.

08) SEATTLE -3.5 over NY Giants - Seattle's 12th man helps them get by Giants, who are prime for an emotional letdown after beating the Eagles.

07) Philadelphia -6.5 over SAN FRANCISCO - I hate this game, but I think the Eagles take out their frustrations on the Niners.

06) Cincinnati +2.5 over PITTSBURGH - Revenge game for Palmer.

05) MIAMI -10.5 over Tennessee - yuck. Tennessee is so bad you can't go with them.

04) TAMPA BAY +3.5 over Carolina - Panthers season could be over Sunday...GOOD.

03) NY Jets +5.5 over BUFFALO - the Jets aren't that bad after all...Pennington will keep it close.

That's it gang...hoping for a repeat of last week. Have a great weekend peeps...I'll try to check in from Toronto. Red Sox and Jays tomorrow - it means nothing, but hey - its a weekend in Toronto. DJames, look for me down the left field line - you know I'll be "representing".

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Questions will be asked regarding your association with someone. Your emotional expression will give away your true feelings. Stay in the background and observe what others are doing. You will come up with the best move. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - Rogers Centre will be filled with people who still wish you were here...have a great weekend!

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for a Saturday night in Toronto

Its Saturday Night - The Razorbacks

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

NFL Picks - Straight Up

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Big news of the night - David Ortiz sets a Red Sox record by hitting his 51st and 52nd HR of the season. I still can't figure out why he isn't considered THE front runner for the MVP award; I don't buy the DH argument. Next week - "Why David Ortiz is the MVP" entry.

Ok, so I'm trying to get everything together here before I head down to Toronto to see the Sox and Jays on Saturday. So tonight, a quick post - my NFL picks straight up. For those of you who didn't read the entries early this week, I went 13-3 both straight up and against the spread. I am posting picks for the straight up pool.

14 - Miami over Tennessee - God help me, I'm picking Culpepper and Saban's stoops to win this week. This is more about how bad Tennesee is, as opposed to thinking Miami is a good team. Who'da thunk that after all the crap I've talked about Culpepper - that I'd be putting 14 points on him and making Miami my suicide pick.

13 - Detroit over Green Bay - see above explanation. I don't think much of Detroit, but I think even less of Green Bay - plus, Favre's problems in a dome are well documented. This is a dog of a game, thank God I'll be driving back from Toronto during this one.

12 - Baltimore over Cleveland - McNair vs. Frye, Lewis vs. Droughans, Winslow Jr. vs Baltimore defence. Need I say more?

11 - New England over Denver - The Patriots haven't been great - but Denver has been pretty bad. Brady vs. Plummer - enough said. Sunday night in Foxboro, hope Hazel has the night off to watch the game.

10 - Indianapolis over Jacksonville - I don't think the Jags can muster enough offence to pull this one out. I know the Jags have played Indy tough in the past, but I can't see Manning dropping this one at home.

09 - Washington over Houston - Portis is back, so the Redskins' offence will be average - their defence is good enough to stuff the Texans. Look for Santana Moss to have a big game.

08 - Philadelphia over San Francisco - this one will be closer than people think. I just don't think San Francisco can stop the Eagles - the Eagles have enough to stop Alex Smith.

07 - Atlanta over New Orleans - an emotional return for the Saints, maybe too much. Look for Ron Mexico and Warrick Dunn to run at that week defence and dominate time of possession.

06 - Arizona over St. Louis - Arizona looks like one of those teams that is going to be dominant at home. St. Louis is a team in transition - Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin both have big games to lead Hazel Mae's Cowboys to a win in this week's fantasy matchup.

05 - Chicago over Minnesota - this one scares me. Everything points to a Chicago blowout...which is why is scares me. But the Bears defence stuffs the run and makes it a long day for Brad Johnson and backup QB/PK Ryan Longwell.

04 - Buffalo over NY Jets - I'm making this pick solely on the basis of the Bills' D. The Jets won't be as bad as everyone originally thought - but I think Pennington is in trouble this week. I say "I think" because it wouldn't come as a shock to me to see the Jets pull one out.

03 - Seattle over NY Giants - Seattle has been ok, the Giants were bad for 7 of the first nine quarters of the season. Manning has some weapons that will cause Seattle some problems; but I see an emotional letdown after last week's win over the Eagles. Seattle at home.

02 - Cincinnati over Pittsburgh - I was tempted to put a lot more weight on this one, but something tells me that the Steelers will come out hard after the Monday Night embarrassment. Still though, I'll take Palmer over Ben any day of the week.

01 - Tampa Bay over Carolina - the loser is out of the playoff hunt. I don't think much of Carolina, and I think Tampa has some playmakers on D. Ok, this is more because I can't stand the Panthers.

That's about it for tonight gang...time to go make my picks against the spread. Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for Big Papi

Oye Mi Canto - N.O.R.E

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Big Day In Boston

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

While Boston celebrates Big Papi's 50th HR - I wonder how many people made the connection that his big hit (Sept 20) just happens to be the second anniversary of Hazel's first appearance on NESN's SportsDesk...betcha didn't know that! I keep telling you about Hazel Karma - believe me now?

Gotta book gang - much to do before going to Toronto tomorrow. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Get serious, do your homework and don't be afraid to make a change. A good opportunity is in the stars but you may have to change your location, lifestyle or vocation. Look at all your options and pursue your goals. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...congratulations on the 2nd anniversary, wish you all the success in the world.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - new song

In View - Tragically Hip

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Shoulda Paid Hazel

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Running way late this morning - not much to say, other that former Leaf enforcer has called it quits to head up to the broadcast booth with TSN. My buddy Johnny called it right

"With Domi, Healy and Simmons...its Leafs TV...

They should given the money they are paying Domi, Healy and Simmons and brought Hazel back"

Some guys just get it - wow, I don't know what Jody Vance would do if that were to happen.

Johnny enjoy your morning coffee while you read this.

Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
You will be subject to changes that you may not expect. Don't get angry -- it won't help your situation. Handle situations professionally as they arise. Your actions will determine what happens next. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Bed's Too Big Without You - The Police

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Rescue Me

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I got caught up watching Rescue Me tonight - so its a quick hit tonight.

For those of you who haven't been here before, Tuesday night entries take a look back at the week or so that was in the world of sports, highlighting some of the more notable performances. To those who have risen above the rest, we award them with an honourary "Hazie" - the lucky few have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially approved this week's winners, we'd like to think she would give her trademark smile and thumbs up.

HAZEL'S HEROES

NFL

Weird Sunday in the NFL - most of the big numbers were put up in losing performances; still though, there were some great ones.

Peyton Manning of the Colts shredded the Houston Texans on Sunday afternoon; I know its the Texans, but it was a great performance nonetheless. Manning was 26/38 for 400 yards and 3 TDs; Manning passed former Colts' great Johnny Unitas for most completions by a Colts QB.

Eli Manning of the Giants had a big game in Philadelphia against that Chunky soup-lovin mama's boy Donovan McNabb. Manning brought the Giants back from a 17 point deficit and won the game with a TD pass in overtime to leave Eagles' fans stunned. Manning finished the game 31/43 for 371 yards and 3 TDs.

Rex Grossman of the Bears had a great game; though not great enough to shut Lions' WR Roy Williams' big mouth. Grossman led the Bears to a pasting of the Lions, going 20/27 for 289 yards and 4 TD.

Ron Mexico of the Falcons ran the Tampa Bay Bucs into the ground on Sunday afternoon. Vick had a forgettable day passing the ball, but he ran the ball 14 times for 127 yards and 1 TD.

Warrick Dunn of the Falcons had his second straight 100+ game of the season against the Bucs - carrying the ball 21 times for 134 yards...Larry who? LaDanian what?

Darrell Jackson of the Seahawks turned in a great game against the Phoenix Cardinals - catching 5 passes for 127 yards and 1 TD.

Ryan Longwell of the Minnesota Vikings kicked three field goals and threw for a TD against the Carolina Panthers - that put him ahead of Vikes QB Brad Johnson.


MLB

While the Washington Nationals have had a forgettable year - Alfonso Soriano recorded his 40th stolen base to become a member of the 40/40 club. It would be funny to put a picture of Soriano up against Jose Canseco and see the difference in body types - for the record, I doubt Soriano is juiced up.

Red Sox West tied a major league record with 4 HR in the bottom of the ninth yesterday - and you know how chicks dig the long ball. So Hazies go out to Jeff Kent, J.D. Drew, Russell Martin and Marlon Anderson, who hit is second HR of the night to send the game into extra innings - setting the stage of NOMAH to win it.

That's about it for tonight; its been a long day and tomorrow promises more of the same as I have a ton of stuff to do before leaving for Toronto this weekend. Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the night on Hazelspeeps - just because

Brother Down - Sam Roberts

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Thank You Hazel

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" (and thank you) goes out to Hazel Mae.

The Monday Night Football game was horrible - nice to see the frustrated look on Ben's face, even nicer to see Cowher just give up; but this morning it is all about Red Sox West and Hazel Karma.

Red Sox West came back twice from four run deficits to beat the San Diego Padres and move back into first in the NL West. Los Angeles hit four straight HRs in the bottom of the ninth to send the game into extra innings, before from Red Sox SS NOMAH hit a 2 run HR in the bottom of the 10th to answer the Padres run in the top of the inning. I asked for a little bit of Hazel Karma yesterday morning...if four HRs in the bottom of the 9th and another one in the 10th isn't Hazel Karma, don't know what is. Chicks dig the long ball!

Gotta book peeps...have a great one!

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
Don't let a deal that sounds too good to be true put you in an awkward position. Opt out and take a safe route that will ensure you can afford the things you want in the future. A creative project could lead to a new relationship. 5 stars

Hazel I hope things are groovy in your world...and if you were tuning in last night to the Dodger game in the studio...THANK YOU!!!!

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for the kind of day it is today

The Rain - The Cult

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Monday Night Thriller

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I decided to hold off on the Hazies until Tuesday to allow for a super Monday night performance to make the list of "Hazel's Heroes" - through three quarters of "football" doesn't look like there is much chance of that happening.

As I mentioned this morning - I have won my NFL Spreads pool, irregardless of what happens in this dog of a game; I also found out that I have already won the Straight up pool that I'm in, with 112 points going into tonight (Carolina and Miami were the losers). All in all a pretty good week 13-2 in both pools going into tonight, with Pittsburgh as my pick in both pools.

Just logged on to post the Monday update of the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool on yahoo. I am ready to conceed victory to Sparky - his lead is unsurmountable now, so the race is for second place with the usual suspects vying for the honour of runner up. Standings for the week ending September 17th.

86.0 - The Bronx Zoo - owned by Sparky. Who will be given a shout out on the Hazelspeeps home page on yahoo - along with a picture of our trophy.

70.5 - Hazel Mae's Hackers - owned by El Presidente (me) who is too busy planning a weekend trip to Toronto (to see the Sox vs Jays) to be managing the Hackers this week.

69.0 - Naughty Girls - owned by Renee, the Commissioner of the Hazel's Hockey League pool on the yahoo site - who must have been jealous seeing me at 69 last week.

68.5 - Shuggysux - owned by Pogue (the other Pogue) who is still stuck on two moves all season.

57.0 - GB Steam Boys - owned by George who cracked the 60 point barrier last week.

53.5 - Tina's Team - owned by Tina who is not in the hockey pool cuz she doesn't like hockey - but is in a dogfight with Hazel Mae's Cowboys in the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Football Pool this week.

44.5 - Tom Sawyer - owned by Hubie who seems to have stabilized at 44 points - but still bucking to crack the 200 moves mark in one season.

39.5 - Fighting Bobcats - owned by Commish Drisc who has been quiet lately - but is in NFL mode these days.

38.0 - Banana Peels - owned by the Golden Banana.

24.0 - Leprachauns - owned by Irish who continues to make moves, but is holding steady at 24.

We'll have the standings in the football pool tomorrow - if Heinz Ward doesn't do something tonight, Hazel Mae's Cowboys are going to fall to 0-2 to start the season. You know what I think of teams that start 0-2...ugh.

That's about it for tonight...have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - its dark, humid and raining here

And It Stoned Me - Van Morrison

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Super Sunday

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Going into Monday night - I have this week's NFL pool already locked up. The only games I had wrong in the spreads pool were Carolina and Denver - 116 points going into tonight's game. Dammit, I have to do that more often...make my picks on Sunday morning after a Saturday night of excess.

I know its early in the season - but questions need to be asked in Carolina, Washington, Tampa Bay and Miami; all came into the season with high hopes - only to have been pathetic in the opening two weeks.

Bad news from the left coast - Red Sox West fell a half game behind the Padres after losing 2-1 yesterday...we need a little bit of Hazel Karma out there tonight.

Gotta book gang. Have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S MONDAY HOROSCOPE
You'll be in a rush today and anyone who gets in your way will have to keep up or move over. You will be able to speak your mind and rid yourself of some annoyances. An investment may not be quite as good as you are told. 5 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - from a slow starting Sunday to a face-paced Monday

I Can See Clearly Now - Johnny Nash

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

No Sudden Movements

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Slow motion Sunday - after a Saturday night of excess...its a yoosh kind of morning. I'll be back later (after a pot or two of coffee) to post my NFL picks.

Later gang...have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
You'll be up for any competitive challenge and in the groove when it comes to entertaining. Travel and networking with people with different ideas will inspire you. Put your dreams into play. 5 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world. Enjoy your NFL Sunday...good luck to Huard today.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for last night

I Got Loaded - Los Lobos

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Red Bull & Vodka

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Wedding to go to today - so my NFL picks for the week will likely be made some time tomorrow morning (likely in a "happy" state of mind) so take them for what they are worth - red bull and vodka!

I've got to book, apologies for the lack of a post this am...have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
If you get caught up in the moment and decide you don't like what everyone else is doing, stay at home alone and read a book. Learn from past mistakes and don't let little annoying things get to you. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...I'd ignore today's horoscope.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - a classic wedding song for the groom

Jump - House of Pain

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Big Series For Red Sox (West)

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Red Sox West host Red Sox West II tonight at Chavez Ravine. The Dodgers go into tonight's game 1/2 game ahead of the Padres in the N.L. West. Former Sox P David Wells goes tonight againtst Greg Maddux. I'm hoping for a little Hazel Karma and calling for the Dodgers to win tonight by a score of 4-2.

I've got to book - taking the day off to go golfing. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
If you want to stick close to home, have a plan. Idle time will be the problem today. Someone you are close to will be emotionally difficult to deal with. Keep an open mind. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world. Have a great weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - Just because

Good Time Tonight - Jimmy Barnes and Michael Hutchins

Peesth Out...Buh Bye

Who Plays Ten/Jack?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Last night was a poker night - started out with 10 guys, and I was heads up with a guy for 75% of the pool. I get dealt pocket Aces when I hear him call "all in" - I wanted to scream CALL. He shows Jack/10 - I turn over Aces. He hit a jack on the first card and a stinkin' 10 on the river and wins it all. Poker is a bitch sometimes.

Have a great one peeps...gotta book.

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Take a serious approach to whatever you do and you will be successful. Follow through with things you've wanted to do for some time. Children or older relatives may be demanding but put you and your dreams first today. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Pressure Drop - The Clash

Peesth Out...Buh Bye.

What Were Snow and Wang Thinking?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I'm still trying to understand what the New York Islanders did yesterday - signing Rick DiPietro to a 15 year/$67.5M dollar contract. DiPietro hasn't really accomplished anything yet, certainly not enough to warrant a guaranteed 15 year contract that will pay him until he is 40. Islanders rookie GM, and last year's goalie, Garth Snow said the key word in the deal was "flexibility" - Snow went on to say that tying DiPietro up for that long - at a reasonable price per year - would allow the Islanders to sign other players. I won't go into implications of cap projections - what I will say is this, you often hear players say they want to be with a team for life - in this case, Rick is really going to be with the Islanders for life. I can't see anyone wanting to pick up that kind of contract. Islanders owner Charles Wang is said to have a soft spot for DiPietro and was the architect of the long term deal - so much for leaving hockey to the hockey people...no wonder Lafontaine left.

Champions League Day 2 going today with Benfica and FC Porto both playing.

I've got to book - have a great one peeps

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
Get out and enjoy your friends, family and new activities. Check out a new location to vacation this winter. You will probably meet someone who can offer you some very good advice about something you feel you would like to get into for a profit. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - what Rick DiPietro mush have been singing last night

Everybody Wang Chung Tonight - Wang Chung

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

The Hazies NFL Style

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you who haven't been here before, Monday night entries take a look back at the week or so that was in the world of sports, highlighting some of the more notable performances. To those who have risen above the rest, we award them with an honourary "Hazie" - the lucky few have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially approved this week's winners, we'd like to think she would give her trademark smile and thumbs up.


NFL

Week 1 is officially in the books - it was a terrible week from my perspective, but a number of players distinguished themselves.

There were seven 100 yard rushers in Week 1 - the notables:

• Atlanta's Warrick Dunn shredded the much-heralded Carolina Panthers' defence for 132 yards on Sunday. Dunn didn't score a TD, but he was the main reason the Falcons got into scoring position.
  
  
• San Diego's LaDanian Tomlinsonhad a 58 yard run on his way to 131 yards and a TD - I don't think he is quite ready to conceed the title of league's best RB to Hazel's boy Larry Johnson. I say that because LT is a member of Hazel Mae's Cowboys in yahoo pool.
  
  
• Green Bay's Ahman Green ran for 110 yards on 22 carries against one of the NFL's best defences - the Chicago Bears. The Packers didn't score a point, but to rush for 110 on the Bears' defence is saying something.

Other 100 yard rushers - Steven Jackson of the Rams, Willie Parker of the Steelers, Tiki Barber of the Giants, and Tatum Bell of the Broncos.


There were three 300 yard passers on Sunday, but one stood out above all the rest:

• New York Jets' Chad Pennington returned to the NFL in big way on Sunday in Tennessee. Pennington came into this season with more than his share of doubters, and yes it was only Tennessee, but 24/33 for 319 yards and 2 TDs (throw in a QB rating of 123.2) and you have a performance that should silence the critics for a little while. Good story.

Other 300 yard passers - Chunky-soup lovin' mama's boy Donovan McNabb, and Kurt "little hands" Warner of the Cardinals.


There were nine 100 yard receivers this past weekend, the notables:

• New York Jets' Laveranues Coles caught 8 passes for 153 yards; no TDs, but he was a the man on Sunday...plus, he's a little guy, Hazel would see eye to eye with Coles.
  
  
• Phliadelphia's Donte Stallworth caught 6 passes for 141 yards and 1 TD; yes it was the Texans he was up against - but a 23.8 yard avg per catch is impressive.
  

Other 100 yard receivers - Larry Fitzgerald of the Cardinals and Antonio Bryant of the Chargers (both members of Hazel Mae's Cowboys in a non-yahoo pool), Marvin Harrison of the Colts, Drew Bennett of the Titans, Muhsin Muhammed of the Bears, Heath Miller of the Steelers, and Andre Johnson of the Texans.

Honourable mention goes to San Francisco RB Frank Gore who had 80+ yards rushing and receiving and scored two TDs in a losing cause against the Cardinals.

Where's the defence you ask? Baltimore, Chicago, San Diego all pitched shutouts this past weekend.


MLB

Florida Marlins' P Anibal Sanchez was named the National League Player of the Week after throwing a no-hitter against the Diamondbacks last week. A former Red Sox farmhand and briefly a member of Renee's Naughty Girls in the yahoo pool (I like to bring that one up every once in a while).

Oakland A's DH Frank Thomas was named the American League Player of the Week. The Big Hurt hit .426 with 5 HRs, 13 RBI, and a slugging percentage of 1.083; going into tonight's game in Minnesota - Thomas had hit a HR in six straight games.


CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SOCCER

Valencia striker Fernando Morientes scored a hat-trick today against Olympiakos in the opening game of the 2006 Champions League group stage.

A depleted Sporting Lisbon (starting four youngsters) got a goal from defender Marco Caneira to beat Inter Milan 1-0 today in Lisbon. The goal spoiled Luis Figo's return to the Portugal, against the team he started his career with. A major upset indeed, as Inter is being picked by many to challenge Chelsea and Barcelona for this year's championship. Good for Portuguese soccer - bad for my man Figo...but he will be back.

That's about all for tonight gang - we'll be back tomorrow for Weird & Whacked Wednesdays. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - to celebrate the return of the NFL (you know it, you love it)

NFL Roundup - NFL Films

Peesth Out..Buh Bye!

Welcome Home Figo

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The UEFA Champions League group stage starts today - that's right, we are back on soccer again - and the most intriguing matchup goes in Lisbon, as former Portugal captain Luis Figo goes home to face his former club.

I've got to book, I'm running really late. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
Be an adventurer and you will discover something interesting about yourself and the people you are involved with. A private matter will be difficult to keep under wraps. Don't get angry -- protect your interests. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Its Been A While - Staind

Peesth Out...Buh Bye

Jobbed In Jacksonville

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Two Monday night games tonight, so an abbreviated post tonight (for my bud Renee) - the Hazies will now move to Tuesdays, after the Monday night games. Week 1 is almost in the books and all I have to say is the officiating in yesterday's games was nothing short of awful - it was a joke.

The Kansas City Chiefs announced today that Trent Green suffered a serious concussion and will be out indefinitely. I'm sure you have seen the replays of the hit Cincinnati's Robert Geathers laid on Green - whether or not it was a cheap shot is debatable; what isn't debatable was that the hit was uncalled for and definitely late. Green was sliding when Geathers drilled him - the officiating crew stood there and watched, without even calling a penalty on the play. That goes against everything the NFL has tried to do in recent years to protect quarterbacks - I can't see the Chiefs recovering from this one if Green misses a couple of games. I'm sure Hazel was pissed when she saw that one.

The game between the Cowboys and the Jaguars was decided (or not decided as it were) on two plays - with the same official involved in both plays. With time winding down in the second quarter and the Jaguars on Dallas' six yard line, Byron Leftwich threw a fade into the endzone - Jags receiver Reggie Williams pulled Cowboys DB Anthony Henry down and caught a game tying TD with seven seconds left in the half - no call by the back judge. So in the NFL, it is ok for a receiver to pull down a DB to catch the ball - ok then, precedent set.

Not so fast though - in the third quarter, with Dallas driving, Drew Bledsoe threw what looked to be a TD pass to Cowboys' TE Jason Whitten - the same official who kept his flag in his pocket on the Williams play threw the flag on Whitten for offensive pass interference - for pushing off the Jags DB who was in a backpedal and embellished the push as well as any soccer player could have. The result was that Dallas was backed up 10 yards and eventually missed a 36 yard field goal to keep the game tied at 10. The rest of the game went Jacksonville's way; yes, I know a big part of what transpired was a result of a very bad decision by Bledsoe to throw that pick at the end of the 1st half - but the officiating had as much to do with the result as the players did.

More on the NFL tomorrow - along with this week's Hazies.

For those you who have kept an eye on the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool - Renee decided this week she didn't need the company of any stinkin' men in 2nd place with her and stomped Shuggy and I down into 3rd. The standings for the week ending Sept. 10/06.

83.5 - The Bronx Zoo - owned by Sparky. Who is STILL vying for a the homepage pic for October, with the announcement that he has won the 2006 Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool. Now I ask you, would you rather see that announcement or Hazel on the homepage? I thought so.

70.0 - Naughty Girls - owned by Renee, the Commissioner of the Hazel's Hockey League pool on the yahoo site - who must be laughing at the point total shuggy and I ended up with this week.

69.0 - Hazel Mae's Hackers - owned by El Presidente (me) who watch three of his best starters come up with nothing yesterday.

69.0 - Shuggysux - owned by Pogue (the other Pogue) who may not even have a computer anymore - who knows?

58.5 - GB Steam Boys - owned by George who has been quiet but is still gaining.

54.5 - Tina's Team - owned by Tina who signed up for the hockey pool.

44.5 - Tom Sawyer - owned by Hubie who is in freefall mode now.

39.0 - Fighting Bobcats - owned by Commish Drisc who has been quiet lately - but is in NFL mode these days.

38.0 - Banana Peels - owned by the Golden Banana who summed up his participation in this year's pool by changing his team name - the title page of his "What I did this summer" essay.

24.0 - Leprachauns - owned by Irish who continues to make moves, and loses points...though he still likes the trades he made.

I'll leave you with words from my friend Renee who announced the creation of Hazel's Hockey League with the following ultimatum -

" See what my Ice Bitches are all about. Its all uncensored the way hockey is supposed to be
played and talked. We keep a sense of civil decorum here but in the HHL if you can't take the heat...

Don't sing it-bring it. Wusses need not apply."

That's about it for tonight - off to the Chargers/Raiders game; if you are wondering, YES I have this game on a Pro-Line tickets and I need the Chargers to win by more than 4. Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - though its not her kind of music, for my friend Renee (she'll understand why)

Waterfalls - TLC

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

NFL Hangover

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I hope your NFL Sunday went better than mine - it was pretty ugly on this end. The Cowboys were ripped off in Jacksonville by the same back judge - a non-call and a questionable call led to a 14 point turnaround; more on that later.

I'm running late today - back later. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S MONDAY HOROSCOPE
Get busy. Work awaits you and it's important that you do everything in your power to advance. Don't waste your time doing someone else's job. Put your time to good use and where it will count the most for you. 3 Stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - sorry about the Chiefs.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps -

No Excuses - Alice in Chains

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Hazel Must Be At Fenway

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Its only the first half - but I can't put into words how much I am hating New England right now. I know I called them a lock this morning, but this is pathetic. They are going for the trifecta at this rate - killing two suicide pools AND a very nice Pro-line ticket.

New England losing by 10, Kansas City losing by 14...I'm thinking Hazel isn't watching the NFL today in her pyjamas...cuz this couldn't be happening; both of Hazel's teams having it handed to them. She must be at Fenway...that must be it.

A Cowboys' win today would dull the pain a little.

I hope your afternoon is going better than mine is right now.

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

It Starts Today In Earnest

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special NFL Sunday "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

So the NFL goes into high gear on this first weekend of the season. If you are a betting NFL fan - my three best picks for week 1 -

New England -8.5 over Buffalo. As the week went on, I began to like this game more and more, I wish week 1 had not started on a Thursday, locking picks in on Wednesday sucks.

Chicago -3.5 over Green Bay. The beginning of a very long season for the cheeseheads - the beginning of the end for Favre.

Arizona -7.5 over San Francisco. Fitzgerald and Boldin have a big game for Hazel Mae's Cowboys (Fantasy team).

Reading the Boston Globe online this morning - Nick Cafardo makes an interesting case for the San Diego Padres having the distinction of being Red Sox West - 11 former Red Sox are now with the Padres. From my perspective, most of the guys on the Padres roster were bit players in Boston - they history there doesn't compare with the combined impact of Nomar, Derek Lowe, Grady Little and Bill Mueller - so the Dodgers remain Red Sox West.

Ok, off to the NFL today. I saw a promo for ESPN's Countdown where Berman and the boys invited that half-wit Dr. Phil to assess the relationship between Parcells and Owens. I know it is supposed to be a joke...but the biggest joke is ESPN for having this fool on their show - so much for credibility.

One last thought on NFL Sundays - Hazel was once quoted as saying her ideal Sunday was spent sitting on the coach in her pyjamas watching the NFL all day - count me in, silk, flannel, or whatever! Have a great one peeps...remember GO COWBOYS - both Dallas and Hazel Mae's.

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
Plan out your strategy for the week ahead and prepare to make the moves that will enable you to move forward. Your drive to get ahead may leave someone who wants to spend time with you feeling left out. Plan a nice dinner. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - and that you have today/tonight off to enjoy the 1st weekend of the season.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for all us NFL fans who love our teams, who are in pools or who are putting some cash down today...some of us will be signing this one (even if we wouldn't admit it).

Crying Game - Boy George

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Big Night In Toronto

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Not much to say today other than "Congratulations to Damon Allen". Allen will be honoured tonight at the Rogers Centre for becoming pro football's most prolific passer. While his record won't be acknowledged by anyone outside of Canada, it is still something pretty special. If you are a football fan in Canada (yes, most of us are NFL fans first) you should still tune in tonight to see the ceremony; Warren Moon and Damon's brother Marcus will be on hand for the event.

Red Sox West have a little bit of breathing room after beating the Mets last night at Shea; couple with San Diego's loss, the Dodgers are now 1.5 games ahead of the Padres in the N.L. West. "Nomah" hit a HR in last night's game, which is good for Hazel Mae's Hackers.

The Red Sox wasted a 4 RBI night by David Ortiz, losing to the Kansas City Royals last night; its safe to say that the season is now over...so Hazel can turn her attention to the NFL and the upcoming NHL season...GO LEAFS.

That's about it for now...have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE

If there is still work to be done, forget about its being the weekend. You are better off getting ahead and avoiding criticism. A change of plans may lead to a change in your position. Don't get angry or upset. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - not a big fan of this one...but for Damon Allen

Number One - Nelly

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Miami Meet Daunte

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Miami fans got their first look at the new and (so-called) improved Dolphins last night - they had to be more than just a little disappointed. Daunte Culpepper had a chance to bring Miami back in the fourth quarter - twice - and he responded with throwing one of those picks for a touchdown...to Joey Porter. Culpepper was at his "Moss-less" best last night - throwing 5 yard passes on 3rd and long; under-throwing receivers on out-patterns; and throwing picks. After watching the way they played last night - anyone who thinks that Miami has a chance to challenge New England for the AFC East is out of their mind. Minnesota made the right decision when they let Culpepper go - they knew they were never going to win with him...I wonder how long it will take Saban to that out.

I'm outta here gang - have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Show your serious side and you will leave an entirely different impression. You can make a difference to those who depend on you. Communications will be important but don't feel you have to be face-to-face to get what you are asking for. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world. Have a great weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - Daunte...

Loser - Beck

"Soy un perdador"

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Sanchez'd

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

You have undoubtedly heard that Florida's Anibal Sanchez got dirty with Arizona last night; throwing the Majors first no-hitter since Randy Johnson did it back in May 2004. This was a good news/bad news deal in Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool. Good news? I got to rattle Renee's cage about picking Sanchez up and dropping him. Bad news? Sparky, who is already far ahead of everyone else, picked Sanchez up. The rich get richer.

Red Sox West pulled one out last night - the Dodgers beat the Brewers 2-1 last night to salvage one game of the three game set; they needed it - the Mets are waiting in New York...yoosh. One more thing, the victory was the last game I needed on my Pro-line ticket - finally a freakin' winner!

That's about it for now...back later with the Weird & Whacked Wednesday/Thursday update. Remember gangThe NFL kicks off tonight! Have a great one peeps!

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Make sure that everyone is dealing straight with you and not just telling you what you want to hear. It's time to get serious about every aspect of your life. You may have to change the way you handle things. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Steal My Sunshine - Len

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Countdown to the NFL

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Wednesday entries are usually reserved for a look back at some of the more "notable" newsmakers from the world of sports - if you have been here before you know all about Weird & Whacked Wednesdays. But with the NFL starting up tomorrow night - tonight is all about filling out my pools and finalizing opening week rosters in the fantasy pools...so the Wednesday update will have to wait until tomorrow.

In what could very likely qualify as an entry for Weird & Whacked Wednesdays, I give you my NFL picks for the upcoming week. The straight up picks include negatives for losses - the spreads pool is a straight weighted pool. Two suicide pools too, no spreads.

Suicide Pick - I'm going to play it safe and go New England in both pools...opening week always has some surprises, I was going to go with Arizona - but I want to be sure of surviving into week 2.

Straight Up
16 - New England over Buffalo. Tom Brady vs. J.P. Losman; Bill Belichick vs. Marv Levy; in Foxboro. No further explanation needed.

15 - Arizona over San Francisco. Larry Fitzergerald & Anquan Boldin vs. Antonio Bryant, Edgerrin James vs. Frank Gore, and Kurt Warner vs. Alex Smith...everything points to a blowout in Arizona's opener. It is time for them to live up to some pre-season hype.

14 - Seattle over Detroit. Seattle has thoughts of getting back to the Super Bowl - Detroit has thoughts of replacing Kitna and building for the future. I can't see the Seahawks letting up at all in this one.

13 - Carolina over Atlanta. See explanation for Seattle. This is a statement game for Carolina, even without Steve Smith, they have to show that they are more than just Delhomme to Smith. I don't trust Ron Mexico on the road.

12 - Philadelphia over Houston. I hate the Eagles, but do I trust David Carr to lead the Texans to a win over the Eagles without Dominick Davis? Nope. I think the Eagles defence stuffs Carr and the Texans; and that Chunky soup lovin' mama's boy McNabb does just enough to win this one.

11 - Denver over St. Louis. St. Louis has a new look offence - Denver keeps Plummer on a short leash and trusts the offence to the running game. Denver wears St. Louis down in the second half and wins it.

10 - Tampa Bay over Baltimore. A lot of pressure on Steve McNair in Baltimore - he certainly makes them better, but is it enough to get by one of the best defences in the NFL? I don't think so. In a game of field position, I'll take Tampa's defence to take advantage of a McNair mistake to win this one. Chris Simms "manages" Tampa to a victory.

9 - Chicago over Green Bay. Green Bay has a lot of question marks, and for the first time in a long time the big question mark is over Favre's head. Chicago's defence smothers the Pack, and their running game does enough to get it done.

8 - Miami over Pittsburgh. Charlie Batch is starting and Hines Ward is banged up. I said Charlie Batch is starting. Nick Saban has his team primed for the opener, big game for Culpepper post "Tub Rub". Miami's defence stuffs Pittsburgh's boring offence.

7 - San Diego over Oakland. I'm not buying Oaklands pre-season performances. San Diego is still smarting over their disappointment last year...LaDanian Tomlinson runs all over Oakland. Did I mention that Aaron Brooks is Oakland's QB? Jeff George is waiting for the call.

6 - Cincinnati over Kansas City. Forgive me Hazel for I have sinned. If you read this page last year, you know that I rarely go against K.C. - out of respect for Hazel - but I can't see them stopping Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson.

5 - Dallas over Jacksonville. I can't go against Dallas. Terrell brings a different dimension to the offence. Dallas comes up big against a very tough Jaguars team - I'm hoping.

4 - N.Y. Giants over Indianapolis. I mentioned first week surprises - this is going to be one of them. Little brother beats big brother. Don't ask me why...just know it is killing me that I'm taking the Giants.

3 - Minnesota over Washington. Minnesota looks good with Brad Johnson, Washington looks old and tired with Brunnell and without Portis. I think Johnson plays it safe and squeaks out a win over the Redskins...oh yeah, and I hate the Redskins too.

2 - N.Y. Jets over Tennessee. I know the Jets are going to suck, I know there are all sorts of questions around Pennington. This game is just plain ugly; so I'm taking a flyer on Pennington over Volek.

1 - New Orleans over Cleveland. I've got Brees in a fantasy pool, I've got Reuben Droughans and Jurivicius - Reggie Bush the X factor.

Take them for what they are worth. I've won this pool two years in a row.

Spreads Pool

16 - San Diego -2.5 over OAKLAND. Schottenheimer's team makes a statement and squashes Oakland...even without Steve Foley.

15 - Chicago -3.5 over GREEN BAY. The beginning of the end for Favre - Chicago's defence dictates this game, the running game does enough to cover the spread.

14 - Philadelphia -4.5 over HOUSTON. The Eagles will come out trying to prove that last year was all Terrell's fault - I can't see them letting this one slip away to Houston...not in Week 1.

13 - Miami +1.5 over PITTSBURGH. Did I mention that Charlie Batch was starting? Miami plays field position football and Culpepper wins his first game in Miami. Plus, the Steelers aren't that good...they never were - the stars lined up.

12 - ARIZONA -7.5 over San Francisco. Its time for Arizona to start living up to the hype - plus, I have Fitzgerald and Boldin on my fantasy team.

11 - TAMPA BAY -3.5 over Baltimore. I just have a feeling on this one - I think McNair tries to do too much and gets burned.

10 - Seattle -6.5 over DETROIT. Hasselbeck vs. Kitna, Alexander vs. Jones - good enough for a 10 point win.

9 - NEW ENGLAND -9.5 over Buffalo. Enough said in straight up analysis. Buffalo fans are going to be wishing that Jim Kelly came out of retirement to reunite with Marv Levy.

8 - CAROLINA -5.5 over Atlanta. Keyshawn wants the damn ball - so does Carolina's defence. Peppers will be in Ron Mexico's face all afternoon.

7 - Cincinnati +2.5 over KANSAS CITY. Forgive me Hazel...your boys go 0-1 this week. But the Pats will win.

6 - Denver -3.5 over ST. LOUIS. I like Denver to win, but a late TD by St. Louis to make it close is worrying me. Probably should be rated higher...but here for now.

5 - Dallas +2.5 over JACKSONVILLE. Terrell's opening day party.

4 - Minnesota +4.5 over WASHINGTON. I'm tempted to bump this pick up tomorrow before the deadline...but Minnesota has to show me what they've got first.

3 - N.Y. GIANTS +3.5 over Indianapolis. Just a feeling. Little brother beating big brother makes for good headlines.

2 - N.Y. Jets +3.5 over TENNESSEE. Yuck. Hoping everyone else picks the Titans.

1 - New Orleans +3.5 over Cleveland. Double Yuck. Brees better come up big for me this weekend.

There you have it...these may change by tomorrow night. The straight up picks are locked in. Post your picks if you got em. Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.


Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just that kind of night

Soul Meets Body - Death Cab For Cutie

"In my head, there's a Greyhound station
Where I send my thoughts, to far off destinations
So they may have a chance of finding a place
Where they're far more salient than here."

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!