Trixie's Trailer Park

Movin' On

2007-09-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let you know that I have moved The Park to a different manufacturer. If you have me linked on your site, you will need to change it to http://trixiestrailerpark.wordpress.com/

If you haven't been to my "old" site in awhile come on over and see what you have been missing.

Thanks.

Trixie

Things I Know on a Friday

2007-09-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

It's Friday...WOO HOO!!! I haven't look forward to a Friday in a long time. It's been quite a rough week for me.

I don't know what to talk about right now...so here are some things I know today.

1. I know that I am tired of Junior Watch 2007. I know there has been a lot of changes with him, but let's move on.

2. I know Sponge Bob in my office really hates the plastic flamingos. I think two of them over plotting to over take the world.

3. I know that I hate it when people ask completely stupid questions. Like, are you a NASCAR fan? I am not kidding one this one. Look at my car, my office, my home, and hello the Tony Stewart t-shirt I am wearing. Here's your sign...

4. Men can be the biggest babies and pains in the butt. I am still trying to understand what's up with that. I guess I should ask one of them and maybe they could explain it to me. Of course, they probably can't explain it either. But I still love them.

5. I know that riding in the back of a Ford Pinto with my feet outside the driver's side window will cause one to fall on the butt when the driver slams on his brakes. Thanks Shane!

6. I know that my 20th high school reunion is next summer. Rock on Class of 1988!

7. I know that Richard will ALWAYS pick Matt Kenseth for his Driver Draft pick if available.

8. Now matter what I how much I want to leave work on a Friday and get home to start the weekend, I always get behind the complete idiot who doesn't understand the concept of speed limit.

9. I know fair food is delicious. Bring on the funnel cakes, corn dogs, and turkey legs. YUM!!!

And finally...

10. I know this is probably the stupidest post I have done, but hey...it's what I know.

Have a great weekend!

Drum Roll Please...

2007-09-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

The wait is over--finally we all now know whatever one else knows.

Announced Tuesday...

And finally...today's annoucement...

Now that all of this has been settled...let's get back to racing.

Out There

2007-09-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

I would like to say a little "I'm there for ya" to one of my buds who is going through a tough time.

And in honor of that I would like to post one of my favorite pictures of my Super Bowl attendees from this year's Super Bowl. Every time I look at it I smile.

Hang in there.

Chase Race 1: New Hampshire

2007-09-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am raising my glass of Jack Daniels to congratulate Clint Bowyer. Before yesterday he was the only Chaser who had not won all year long. Well, I guess he took care of that yesterday. Clint dominated the race by starting on point and just taking over the race. He went from 12 the to 4th in the standings and only 15 points behind leader Jimmie Johnson. What a great way to start off the Chase.

Tony finished a solid 3rd yesterday. I remarked to Postman yesterday that in 2005 when he won it all, he won Indy. Does this bode well for Smoke this year? I hope so.

Here is how the Chasers finished yesterday, where there are in the points standings, and how far back from the leader.

1. Jimmie Johnson 6th

2. Jeff Gordon 2nd

3. Tony Stewart 3rd -10

4. Clint Bowyer 1st -15

5. Kyle Busch 4th -35

6. Martin Truex 5th -40

7. Matt Kenseth 7th -54

8. Carl Edwards 12th -63

9. Denny Hamlin 15th -82

10. Kevin Harvick 17th -88

11. Jeff Burton 18th -91

12. Kurt Busch 25th -102

I am hoping this will shape up to be an exciting Chase. I still am standing by my dark horse pick of Kyle Busch. There are still 9 races left in this thing and you know anything can happen. I have a feeling Talladega will shake it up a bit once the Chase gets there in a few weeks.

Next week onto Dover.

Announcements this week...

1. Kasey Kahne will now be the face of Budweiser. Taking the place of Dale Jr. who will be at HMS next year with a new sponsor and number.

2. The wait will be finally over this week...we will all finally know who will sponsor Dale and what his number is. Thank you. Now perhaps we can all move onto other things. Junior watch 2007 is officially over.

Now for the other sports news of the weekend

NCAA Football

1. Michigan vs Notre Dame--Michigan finally won. I would have at least thought Notre Dame would have put up something on the scoreboard.

2. USC vs Nebraska--I really was hoping this would have been a decent game, but alas it wasn't up to the task. I still don't like USC, but they showed why the have the #1 ranking.

3. Texas vs Central Florida--I REALLY wanted CFU to win. I don't care if UT is representing the home state, I don't like Texas.

4. Texas Tech vs Rice--This wasn't pretty. I watched the WONDERFUL television coverage (sarcastic tone here) and even though they were in Houston, with all the red there you would have thought they were playing in Lubbock. This week Tech will be tested when we head to Stillwater, OK to play to the OSU Cowboys. OSU got beat pretty handily by Troy this weekend.

NFL Football

1. Cowboys looked good. They are 2-0. Keep it up Boys!

2. Colts scraped by the Titans

3. And finally, the whole thing with the Patriots. He should have been suspended. He is too good of a coach to be doing this. And the fact that EVERY TEAM was told prior to the start of the season, this was ILLEGAL. Um...does this sound familiar (i.e. COT)? I believe the Pats are a good team and they didn't need to do this. I mean come on...3 time Super Bowl champs. And you have dominated the first two games of the season.

Oh well...that's all for now. Have a great week everyone!

I Don't Know

2007-09-13T05:20:00.000-07:00

Is it wrong of me to be happy for someone but yet not? I know this may sound weird, but that's how it's going right now.

I can relate to this little kid in the picture. What am I waiting for?

I guess the train that never comes.

9-11

2007-09-11T05:17:00.001-07:00

Always remember...

The Chase Is On

2007-09-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Chase is here. I for one am glad to get things going. Finally the reporters can stop discussing whether or not Dale Jr. will make the Chase. Those 100 points that were taken away from him earlier in the year didn't come into play. He has not had a good run this year to challenge for the championship. He can now focus on just racing, just like Tony did last year.

Now let's look at who has made the coveted 12 spots.

1. Jimmie Johnson--He has the momentum going into the Chase. He has won the last two races, but it's not always where you start that matters. One of only two drivers to make each of the Chase races since it's inception.

2. Jeff Gordon--I think he and the next driver are the ones to watch out for. Jeff has a good year. I belive his life outside of racing is good and that reflects on the race track.

3. Tony Stewart--He's had good runs over the last couple of races. His pit crew needs to step up to Chase standards. Every time I looked up on Saturday, Tony lost spots coming out after a pit stop. It may have been 2 or 3 spots, but when it comes to winning a race that's vital.

4. Carl Edwards--I have to admit I didn't know he had been in the top 12 until a few weeks ago. I do have to defend myself on this one. I don't keep up with Carl. I mean he does have a chance to win both championships this year, but with the three amigos above him it's going to be rough.

5. Kurt Busch--He lost 100 driver points, got a new crew chief and raced his way into the Chase. I am not a fan of Big Shrub, but I have to give him props and say you can overcome a loss of 100 points and make the Chase.

6. Denny Hamlin--Two years in NASCAR and this is his second time in the Chase. Watch out.

7. Martin Truex Jr.--Congrats for making the Chase for the first time. I have always believed Truex was a good driver and he would make the Chase. He has had a quiet season this year. Who would have thought he would be the ONLY DEI car in the Chase.

8. Matt Kenseth--The only other driver besides Jimmie to make the Chase every year since it's inception. I think Matt isn't given enough press some times. He can drive the wheels of his car, but he has had some bad breaks throughout the year.

9. Kyle Busch--This kid can drive. He is growing on me. I think he will be a force in the Chase, but I am not sure he will win it all. He has to race over some of his future teammates as well as current teammates to get to the top.

10. Jeff Burton--Way to go Jeff. He was my dark horse pick last year, but had trouble late in last's year Chase. I would like to seem him win one. He has the elder statesman of the group this year since Mark is not in the Chase this year.

11. Kevin Harvick--He started of the season on a high note with Daytona, but he has had some runs that almost cost him a spot in the Chase. I think he can challenge for the championship, but he has to bring the "A-game" every race.

12. Clint Bowyer--The only driver in the Chase who didn't win a race during the "regular" season. I don't think he will have a shot at the title, but it will be good experience for him. It's nice to see all of the RCR teams in the Chase.

My pick: Tony Stewart.
My dark horse: Kyle Busch.

I do want to thank David Ragan for finishing third. He won me some dough in the driver's pool I thought Carl Edwards was going to be the one to win me some cash, but that blew up when his engine let go.

I am looking forward to this year's Chase. I think it will be interesting with 5 of the races being COT races.

Now on to some things I didn't get a chance to comment on last week.

1. Toyota and Gibbs--I guess it doesn't really matter to me. Tony Stewart can drive the wheels off anything he sits behind and the Camry will be the same. Winning championships is the name of the game in NASCAR. If this gets Gibbs to where they need to be, then so be it. And yes, I am excited about Kyle coming over to JGR. I believe JGR will be one to watch in 2008.

2. Junior and The Chase--This is a moot point. It just seems there's not fight left in him this year. I am not saying he doesn't have the fight in him, it's just this year is pretty much a wash. He can just race and think about next year.

3. Dale--I loved the movie. It gave me a deeper understanding of what Dale meant to the sport and what the sport meant to Dale.

4. NASCAR in Primetime--I thought last week's episode was interesting. I belive the last episode is on Wednesday. It's been somewhat of an eye opening experience to me especially with regards how the NASCAR life can take a toll not only on the drivers but their family and loved ones as well. It's all about the sacrifice and what one is willing to give to achieve the ultimate.

5. I saw that Dario Franchetti is coming over to NASCAR to drive for the #40 team. I guess NASCAR is the where everyone wants to be.

6. Robert Yates--Good luck and enjoy your retirement. Welcome aboard Travis.

7. Interesting to see how JJ ended up at Hall of Fame racing. Isn't this a psuedo-JGR team???

On to Race #1--New Hampshire. GOOD LUCK BOYS!

Non-NASCAR--aka Football
1. If you told me both Michigan and Notre Dame would start off the season 0-2, I would have asked you what you were smoking.
2. Major props to Fresno State for taking Texas A&M to 3 OTs. Too bad A&M won. That's ok--the Ags have to still play us and Tech has owned them over the past 10 years.
3. Dallas won. There were glimpses of years past, but that's it--glimpses.

Have a great week everyone!

Enough Already

2007-09-07T05:22:00.001-07:00

Can someone out there explain to me why people don't take pride in their work?

Just asking....

NASCAR and Football

2007-09-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

NASCAR
First things first...congratulations to the winner of the California race--you know who you are.

I wasn't too upset where Tony finished. He got a top 15. Still no win at California...maybe next Smoke.

Hey Michael...next time you have a fender rub...bring it on in. The crew will take care of it for you.

I don't think Ricky Rudd is rethinking his retirement after this weekend.

I have to give major props to Brad Keselowski to walk away from that crash.

I hate to say it, but the door is closing on Junior for making the Chase. He is going to have race the race of his life and have a few above him to have a disastorous night.

News alert...JJ Yeley to Hall of Fame Racing and Eury Jr. to go with Junior to HMS.

FOOTBALL
This marked the first weekend of college football. I love this time of year.

A big WOO HOO goes out to Appalachian State! You went into The Big House and BEAT MICHIGAN!!! Sorry for all you Wolverine fans out there...I'm, after all, a BUCKEYE fan. I was SHOCKED, to say the least, that Michigan went from being #5 in the nation, to not even in the Top 25. I would have figured lower 20s, but not even in. WOW!!!

Another WOO HOO for Georgia Tech. I caught most of this game and I have to say...was that Notre Dame I was watching.

My Red Raiders rustled up some Ponies this weekend. The broke SMU...49-9. Next up for the Red Raiders...UTEP.

And finally...the NFL season begins on Thursday! Go Colts and Cowboys!

Bristol and Stuff

2007-08-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

Bristol was different. I like the new surface and the two wide racing. I am not much on following the leader. Of course it was the Kasey and Carl show on Saturday. It was nice to see Kasey have such a good run. It has been a rough year for him. To be honest, I really didn't know Carl was in the top 12 in points. I know it sounds bad, but I really don't follow what he does. I am usually watching what Tony does on the track and in the points and with everything else.

Congratulations Carl!

Two more races and the Chase will be here. I don't know if Junior will make it. Junior did finish above Kurt, but Kurt also had a good run. I think Kurt would have to have a complete meltdown over the next two races and Junior would have to bust out with a win.

The third installment of NASCAR in Primetime is on tonight. Don't forget to watch.

California race--not a favorite of mine. But I will be watching to see how those trying to remain in the Chase will do.

Non-NASCAR stuff
1. Tom Brady's ex-girlfriend, Bridget Moynahan, names son John Edward Thomas Moynahan--that's J-E-T. I find it very funny. Tom Brady, quarterback of the New England Patriots, has a son with the initals of his heated rival the New York Jets. Bridget = 1, Tom = 0. Laugh amongst yourselves.

2. Michael Vick--enough already.

3. Football season just around the corner--woo hoo! I have to gear up for Sunday's to see who will win the coveted spot in front of the big screen TV...Postman or me...and who will be delegated to the back room TV.

And finally...I would like to say CONGRATULATIONS to the Lubbock Westerners! You guys played your hearts and souls out during the Little League World Series. You might not have made it the finals, but you are the 3rd best little league team in the WORLD! You made us all proud with how you handled yourselves on and off the field. You guys rock!!!

NASCAR in Primetime

2007-08-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

What's a NASCAR fan to do?

The truck race was on last night plus the 2nd installment of NASCAR in Primetime was also premiering.

I watched the truck race until 8:00 and then flipped over to the NASCAR show. I flipped back between commercials. I really like watching the trucks race, but I wanted to watch the ABC show more.

The second installment was even better than first. It was a little painful to watch Mark Martin watch racing from his home. Even though he was at home, part of him was still at the track. It was clearing obvious where his mind was when he was at the dinner table and he was watching race coverage. But I think Mark has made peace with his decision. If he hadn't he wouldn't have stepped out of the car at Bristol. He is going out on his terms and at the top of his game. How can you fault the man?

Johnny Sauter's segment was intriguing. You can tell this guy wants to be successful in NASCAR. It eats at him. Plus you get to see what it is like for those "Go or Go Home" guys every week. The pressure they are under to put our two fast laps. And when they don't make it how it affects their lives and those around them. I can even begin to understand how it feels.

I am still not warming up to Juan Pablo. I know his racing aggressive comes from the previous racing leagues. He was an F1 driver and from what I understand drivers in that league are aggressive. It probalby was a matter of survival. I would agree he is a breath of fresh air for NASCAR.

I liked the fact they showcased the Texas race. I wasn't able to go back in April for lack of better excuse than money. Jeff Burton one the race. He was the first repeat winner at TMS. And if you are going to have a repeat winner, then Jeff should be the one. After all, he won the first race at TMS. Will I be at TMS in November? I don't know. Money is still an issue, but this NASCAR fan will find somewhere to raise the dough. You do whatever it takes to get there right my friends.

Well...it's Bristol weekend again. Congrats to Johnny Benson! And lookie there...is that Mark Martin there who finished 3rd? Man that dog still has some fight left in him.

Gentlemen, You Can FINALLY Start Your Engines

2007-08-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

Finally after two days of rain and just downright yuckiness, the race was able to get underway. I was able to watch some of the race today even though it was at work. NASCAR.com was streaming ESPN broadcast online today. It was rather difficult to keep my mind on my work with the race going on in the background. I was a good girl today as you can tell...I did go to work.

Congratulations to Kurt Busch today! With Kurt winning the race today, it looks like Dale Jr. still has a lot of ground to make up. Junior did finish 12th and moved one spot up in the standings to 13th, but I think Kurt has the momentum going into Bristol and the remaining pre-Chase races. I know Earnhardt nation will be very disappointed if Junior doesn't make the chase, but I think there has been a lot of things waying on his mind over this season. The decision to leave his father's company, I belive, is probably the hardest decision he will ever have to make. But I can understand his decision. I think I can step back because I am not part of the Red Army. I can take an objective view of things. I think going to HMS will benefit him greatly. I think he will have more success at HMS. And now with the #8 staying with DEI, this all has to be in the back of his mind. Even though he is probably focused every week, sometimes it's the little things that bubble up to the top. Maybe not making the Chase will help him. Look what happened to Tony last season. He could just race. There wasn't any Chase pressure. Tony was able to have fun.

Tony finished 10th after starting back in 35th position. I like it when Tony does qualify towards the front, but I don't fret when he qualifies in the back. I know he will make his way to the front of the pack.

On to Bristol for some Saturday night racing! I love the Bristol night race. Lots of beatin' and bangin' and tempers flaring! Watch boys...

Just a reminder...the second installment of the ABC show NASCAR in Primetime is on. I can't wait. I rewatched part of the last's week show this evening. I like the fact the drivers featured aren't necessarily the high profile ones (i.e. Tony, Jeff, Junior). I am looking forward to seeing how Mark handles watching a race from my point of view...the recliner.

Have a great week!

Sick Day

2007-08-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Supervisor,

I have not been feeling well since Sunday afternoon and I managed to make it to work this morning. However I have had this icky feeling since early this afternoon. I think a cold has taken over my body. Excuse me while I cough and sneeze. I think I will take time off tomorrow morning to stop by my doctor's office. Dr. Stewart stated he could try to squeeze me in say around 9 am (CST). Please excuse me from work tomorrow morning.

Sincerely,

Trixie (cough, cough)

We Got It Goin' On

2007-08-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

I hope all the members of Junior Nation is doing ok today. Just in case those of you in NASCARland don't know...the #8 will remain with DEI. This news tidbit doesn't affect me one way or the other. I am thinking what number could he be next year...08? how 'bout...58 or 85 which combines his old number with the new number. Or maybe a multiple of 8?

It's now OFFICIAL...Kyle Busch will take over the #18 starting in 2008. Wow--what a shock this was (wink wink). This was the worst kept secret over the last few weeks. Believe or not I am lookin gforward to next for the Gibbs boys. I am going to give Kyle a chance. Now for this Toyota rumor that seems to be gaining momentum. I don't care one way or the other what kind of car my driver drives. I know Tony can drive the wheels off anything as he has proven on numberous occassions.

Did you catch NASCAR in Primetime on ABC last night? It was very entertaining. I did like the segments with Mark Martin. You could tell in his face how much he has sacrificed for racing. He is definitely a class act. I like how they interview race fans in between the different segments. Do forget to watch next week?

I bought a subscription to Sirius radio back in January so I could keep up with all the NASCAR stuff. I have to say I am very satisfied with my subscription. My favorite show...Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody. Very funny stuff and very insightful. Maybe one day I will get the nerve to call up and voice my opinion. I do hate the callers that have no clue about things. Very annoying and god bless Moody for not hanging up on these people. They usually have Ray Evernham on every week. And I have to say he is very interesting and fun to listen to. This show rocks! I do listen to the Morning Drive, but I am NOT a fan of David Poole. I have tried to listen and understand his point of views some time and yes he is insightful, but there are times I am like enough already. I get it. Build that bridge and move on. And of course...there's Tony's own show. I don't get a chance to catch as much as I want, but what I have been able to catch...AWESOME! You can definitely tell it's Tony's show.

Speaking of Tony...here's another one of my fave photos of Smoke...yum!

At the Glen

2007-08-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I didn't watch the first part of the race. I am battling some kind of cold that I can't shake so I slept quite a bit yesterday. I did briefly wake up to hear that Tony spun out and lost the lead. I am glad that was able to see the last 40 laps. This is the first time I actually enjoyed watching a road race.

Title Fight: Harvick vs Montoya
In one corner you have an "rookie" to NASCAR trying to make a name for himself in the sport. In the other corner, you have well..Kevin Harvick. If you follow NASCAR at all, Kevin has a little temper. He isn't afraid to say what is on his mind and tell it like it is. This came to a head yesterday at the Glen. Montoya bumped from bheind by Truex, then spun into Harvick, who then spun out. Montoya's car rolled back onto the track and WHAM...they goes Jeff Burton. Kevin not knowing what happened behind him, parked his car in front of MOntoya to prevent him from returning to the track. Kevin's out of his car as well as Montoya. They proceeded to have a "meet and greet" righ there in Turn 1 for all the grandstands to see. It was quite exciting. Reminded me of old school NASCAR...drivers taking care of business.

DOH!

When it came down to the last few laps of the race, I was pretty comfortable with the idea that Tony was going to finish 2nd. Tony had a good car, but I don't know if he could have caught and passed Jeff. But as well all know, sometimes drivers of a DOH moment. And that's what happened to Jeff yesterday. At the time of the spin, all I knew was Jeff spun and Tony had the lead. I hate to say it, but I thought...oh my god...Tony's spun out Jeff, but alas..Jeff took care of it all by himself.

Smoke
Yesterday's win gave Tony 3 wins out of the last 4 races. WOO HOO!!!! I think Postman is going to hide my two Brickyard shirts. This is the third time I have wore one of Brickyard shirts and well...Tony won. Last week...no Brickyard shirt. Coincidence? I think not. Guess I will have to wear my Brickyard shirts from here on out. In honor of Tony's victory yesterday, here's one of my favorite pics of Tony. Yum....

Little League World Series

2007-08-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LUBBOCK WESTERN LITTLE LEAGUE!!!

THEY BOYS ARE HEADED TO WILLIAMSPORT TO PLAY IN THE LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES. THE TEAM BEAT ROSWELL, NM 6-0. THE PITCHER HAD A COMPLETE GAME, ONLY ONE HIT, AND 15 STRIKEOUTS...COUNT THEM 15 STRIKEOUTS!!

WAY TO GO BOYS!!!

GOOD LUCK IN WILLIAMSPORT!!!

The News and All That It Is

2007-08-07T04:26:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Kurt Busch for just dominating the field on Sunday at Pocono. Kurt lead 175 out of 200 laps. And with that victory, Postman won some money in a NASCAR pool at our ONMC viewing party. WOO HOO!!! I think it was ironic that I drew Kevin Harvick.

Tony had a strong 6th place finish. Way to go Smoke!

I have to give props to the #8 team for battling all day and finishing 2nd. Unfortunately it dropped Jr. to 13th, but there are still a few races before the chase starts.

Robby Gordon--Fight the Power! Should he have done a burn out while Kevin was doing his? Absolutely not. You were showing up NASCAR and they don't take too kindly to that. Do you have a legitimate beef? Absolutely. Fight the Power as I say...Fight the Power!

Welcome aboard Kyle! I was visiting with some NASCAR aficionados the other day and I told them you would end up at JGR. I also think Biffle will not be Roush next year. I haven't heard anything, but call it a feeling I have. Where will Yeley be next year? I am not sure, but some team will pick him up.

Postman and I attended our local OMNC chapter's NASCAR viewing party on Sunday. This group is vary eclectic. We have lots of members who root for various drivers. But here's the cool thing...we can all sit in one room and cheer on our drivers without tearing each other up. That's right folks...this Tony Stewart fan can sit along side a Jimmie fan and get along. We teased each other about our drivers, but it was all in the name of sportsmanship. It is out of mutual respect I believe. I didn't get that when I attended a football game at a rival stadium. It is sometimes hard sitting in the stands when you are the rival. But in NASCAR there really isn't a home stadium. Drivers may have home tracks close to the home towns, but it's not like when a football team has a home game. It was just an observation...and I think it's pretty cool.

Non-NASCAR stuff

I wish this whole Barry Bonds thing was over already. I will admit I am not a Barry Bonds fan, but this is a milestone you will achieve and congratulations.

Football season is now upon us once again and that means Postman has kicked into high gear with his fantasy football. Maybe he will have better luck this year. He did pick up Terrell Owens for his team.

There are times I wish I could just walk up to someone and tell them what I think of them. But in this case I have to be careful. I work with this person. I feel I have been...well SCREWED. That's the only way to put it. I shouldn't let this stuff get to me, but sometimes you just gotta say ENOUGH. I guess I should take the advice I gave Robby Gordon huh? FIGHT THE POWER!!!!

That's the advice I have for everyone this week...FIGHT THE POWER!!!!

Open Mouth and Insert Foot

2007-07-31T05:32:00.000-07:00

It's hard out there for a Tony Stewart fan, but he understands our pain.

Tony said a curse word on national television during a post race interview with ESPN. He should be fined and docked points because there has already been someone else in the garage area fined and docked for uttering a similar profanity on national television.

update---$25,000 AND 25 DRIVER POINTS for uttering that obscenity.

Off the NASCAR page for a moment...I was saddened to hear from my husband yesterday that former San Francisco 49ers coach Bill Walsh had passed away from a battle with leukemia. He was instrumental in creating the West Coast Offense and winning 3 Super Bowl titles that propelled the Niners to a dynasty in the 1980s. Postman a died hard Cowboys fan can still cannot watch clips of "The Catch". The NFL has lost a legend. Rest In Peace Coach Walsh. If you see Tom Landry, tell 'em this Cowboy fan says "Hi".

Smoke

2007-07-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

That's two Brickyards in 3 years for Mr. Tony Stewart. I really wanted Tony and Kevin to race for the win, but this is the Brickyard and well...sometimes you gotta do what ya gotta do. You knew something was going to occur when Tony says..."here, kitty, kitty..." on his radio. But rubbin' is racin'. Plus that makes two victories for Tony. CONGRATULATIONS!!! I guess I have to wear that Brickyard shirt again next week. I wore it when he won in Chicago and I had it on yesterday.

I have been out of touch the last week or so. I was taking care of my mother after her surgery. The only highlight of sitting in a hospital room for hours upon hours was the fact there was CABLE TV and FREE INTERNET.

DEI/Ginn Merger--Sounds like the real estate guy Ginn bought a depressed property, fixed it up and then flipped it for a better price. I also see someone who realized that he had jumped into the deep end without a life preserver and life guard. It was weird to see Mark Martin now racing for DEI. I think DEI will benefit in the end, however.

Kyle Busch--who will will the lottery and sign this guy as their newest member? Only Kyle knows this answer and I am sure once he makes his decision we will all know. If I was a team owner looking to improve my team...I would do everything I could to get him signed. This boy can drive the wheels off his car. Sure, he needs to chill out a little, but he is STILL 22 years old. He is growing on me though.

Dale Jr.--Looked like he had a decent shot yesterday to challenge Tony, but once again he had car issues. I am the first to admit I have never been a huge fan of Jr. Can he drive? Sure. Will he reach the level his father achieved? No. And in this day and age I don't know if anyone will. I do feel Tony Eury should stay at DEI. I just don't think he is one of the best crew chiefs out there. I just think Jr. should make a complete break from DEI. Drive under a different number/new crew chief/new sponsor. Sometimes the hardest thing you have to do is let go of what you know and set your sights on what you don't know. I probably have upset some in the Earnhardt nation, but I just call them as I see them. It's only my opinion.

Well...on to Pocono again. Why is it that we go here twice a year? Isn't one snooze fest from this racetrack enough? And while I am on this subject, why does California have two dates? I say eliminate one of the Pocono races, give Kentucky one, and bring back the Southern 500. I have said this before...do you really think majority of those movie stars watch NASCAR? Please...Jessica Alba didn't even know who was driving the #19 car whose paint scheme was promoting her stupid movie.

One final note...how cool would it be to have a "throw back" paint scheme day at one of the race weekends. How 'bout next year at the 50th anniversary of Daytona 500? That would be awesome. How many of us would run out and buy the cars? I smell a money maker!!!!

I'm Still Here!

2007-07-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

The week in review...and yes I am still around

*Wow! What a finish at Daytona last Saturday night-major props to Jamie

*Tony and Denny--no one's fault, just a racin' deal. Way to go Coach Gibbs for taking the boys out to the woodshed. I guess we all are just going to have to get along.

*Ouch...that must have hurt Jimmie when your tire "exploded" and you car ended up in the wall at Chicago. It looked like it did.

*This Bud isn't for for you Mr. Earnhardt. What more can the Earnhardt nation take these days? Nice driving with no power steering today at Chicago

*Thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who lost loved ones in the plane crash.

*Did Kyle get snubbed last week? It's all about perception I say. But I know what it is like to be leaving a job and get treated differently. It's like you are branded as disloyal.

*On a personal note...i am not a fan of getting my blood sugar tested. You have to drink the nastiest tasting stuff that I wouldn't wish on anyone. Then you have to get your blood drawn every hour on the hour for 6 hours. That was DEFINITELY 6 hours I can't get back. Results--no good, but I am dealing with it. My mother is undergoing surgery in a week. I am worried about her, but she will be okay with me there with her.

*TONY WON TODAY!!!!!! What a way to start of my week!!!!!

Rain Go Away

2007-07-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

Looks like both Cup qualifying and the Busch race were rained out today.

It really sucks for Boris Said. He had the pole and now he has to go home. There were several others who had a good qualifying, but due to that top 35 thing they too have to go home. It's a shame this has happened again. I think NASCAR should look at this situation. I think 35 is too much. It should be reduced to top 20 or 25 who are guaranteed.

Plus I have to get up early to catch the Busch race tomorrow morning--UGH. Oh well...all in the name of racing. That's two races on one day...woo hoo.

Happy Happy

2007-07-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Everything is quiet on the NASCAR front...for now any way.

I hope everyone had an enjoyable 4th of July. I am taking the next two days of from my current career pursuit. It was a rough week last week along with Monday and Tuesday. I know I just came back from vacation a few weeks ago, but damn it's been crazy and very, very stressful. So..here I am at home doing absolutely nothing. Perhaps I may work on some "redecorating" the Park.

I am hoping the DFW area will receive a break from the rain they have been receiving over the past several weeks. The animals haven't started lining up two by two and there has been no Noah sighting, but it's only a matter of time if the rain doesn't stop.

It is now July and that means NFL training camps are just around the corner. Postman is beginning his preparation for his fantasy football league. I am going to think positive thoughts for the Cowboys. They have a new coach. Tony Romo will be starting off the season as the quarterback and TO (hopefully) will remain healthy. But with football season around the corner this means I will have to "fight" Postman for the TV on Sundays. NASCAR or Cowboys football? Of course we all know who will win the battle of the TV....

I flipped onto Sirius yesterday to discover they were replaying old racebroadcasts from year's past. At the time I was listening, the 1999 Bristol race had just completed. This was the one where Dale Sr. bumped Terry LaBonte right at the end to take the vicotry. When they interviewed Dale Sr. I thought they were interviewing Dale Jr. because they sounded so much alike...very scary. Terry was definitely a little upset to say the least. They also interviewed Tony. Apprently he was mixed up in a wreck and he was upset...and here's the kicker which made me kind of laugh..he didn't want to say anything because he was upset.

See what happens when all is quiet on the NASCAR front....I ramble on and on about nothing.

Have a good day.

Louden

2007-07-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

Yea Denny! I knew it was just a matter of time this year that you would cross that finish line. This is the first win for JGR this season. I wish the first win could have been Tony, but a win for JGR is a win. If there had been a few more laps Jeff Gordon would have caught Denny, passed him and won the race. It was exciting to watch Truex and Gordon go at it. And the racing was clean.

As I thought the #24 and #48 were not affected by the suspensions. As reported the crew chiefs are allowed to be at the track, however they cannot communicate on the official team radio or be in the garage areas. So what did the suspensions really prove? Absolutely nothing. I think the crew chiefs should not be allowed at the track ANYWHERE. They should have to stay home like the rest of us and watch the race with those pesky commercials.

I am very upset with TNT. I swear it was like three minutes of racing and 10 minutes of commercials. At one point I was able to predict when they would go to commercial. I can't remember which commentator said, but they mentioned about the exciting racing go on. How would I know? You keep showing commercials about TNT's new summer shows or that stupid Subway commercial with Tony and Jared. Tony looks like he would rather be somewhere else than sitting next to that goober Jared. I wonder since next week's race at Daytona will have limited commercials they had to get them all in this week to make up for next week. I hope ESPN/ABC has better coverage of the race and less on the commercials. I really think the coverage by TNT today was horrible. There were times they would cut to their pit reporters and there would be no one there. Wally, Kyle, and Bill had to fill the void. I really like Wally and Kyle, but I am not a fan of Weber. I wish they would put Alan Bestwick in the booth. But what do I know.

There were definitely some mishaps on pit road that cost several drivers positions. Greg B. got ticketed for speeding not once but twice. That just about says it for his season. Will he remain at Roush? It will be interesting to see. And then Carl's day was pretty much over when there was a jack malfunction. I did however like his paint scheme. See what happens when you carrying the Boston Red Sox design on your car? All I could think of was the mishap in the 1986 World Series. I still can't watch the replays of the Bill Buckner mishap. Ryan Newman got tagged for speeding as well, but finished 10th. And yes, Smoke even had problems in the pits...he finished 12th.

Next week the Boys are back in the "old" car for some Saturday night racing at Daytona.

On the Pole

2007-06-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on Dave Blaney for winning the pole at Louden this weekend. This gives Toyota their first pole of the season. However, I still feel Toyota will not get a win this year. It has been a rough year for the other automakers too except for the Chevy cars.

I just popped on to NASCAR.com and saw that Brian Vickers qualifying time is null and void because his car was too low during post qualifying inspection. That means his spot will go to Chad Chaffin.

I guess NASCAR isn't afraid to suspend drivers for using their vehicle as a weapon on the track. Ted Musgrave got a one race suspension for his actions last week in Milwaukee. I wonder if one of the Cup boys did what he did would they get a one race suspension? I don't know. It was obvious that Musgrave's actions were intentional, but look at the whole picture. I know there are those out there who love the truck series. I myself think it's some of the best racing out there. But do you really think NASCAR would have the spine to suspend one of the Cup boys for doing the same thing? Gut feeling no. I will admit I would be angry if Tony did the same thing and was suspended especially if it was intentional. I still don't defend his actions when he caused Matt K. to come across the grass and back onto the track at Daytona last year. Looking back on the post regarding this incident I wasn't very harsh on Tony. Matt and Tony could have been beating and banging, and yes I did put a little blame on Kenseth, but in the end I was upset that Tony did this. I am quick to defend Tony's actions because I am rabid Tony fan, but there are times I wish he would just keep his emotions under control. But it's those emotions and his passion for driving that attact me as a fan and keep me coming back for more.

I am looking forward to this weekend's race to see how the #24 and #48 cars will do without their crew chiefs. They will probably rise to the top as these two always seem to do. It's like I always tell Postman...they could fall in a big pile of cow crap and come out smelling like a rose.

Good Luck Tony!

Yada, Yada, Yada

2007-06-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

What can I write about today? Penalties in NASCAR? Nope...it's kind of a moot point. I do have to say I am glad that HMS will not appeal the penalties.

What else is there to talk about around NASCAR nation? It seems pretty quiet right now. But you never know what the weekend will bring.

So what can I share with the Park? NBA draft? Nah...it's pro ball. I tend to watch college basketball. Congrats to Houston Astros Craig Biggio for reaching 3000 hits tonight. Way to go. You are a class act. You were very loyal in an era where loyalty goes only so far as the dollar sign.

Ah...I know...people who can't get over themselves. What is it about those kinds of people? They think they are all that when in reality that ain't worth the trouble. I am acquainted with one such person. I don't know how to keep it from getting to me. I have upset stomach and migraines that are triggered by the stress of dealing with this person. I have rallied the troops and tried to move on down the trail. For those of you out there in the blogosphere, perhaps you know what it's like to be around something like this. I all have to say to this person...RESPECT.

I have been accused of being a little selfish lately. Perhaps I have. I have at times given everything that I am to everyone else to the detriment of my own life. So I have decided to take a little rest and take care of me for a change. I make no apologies for it. I guess I am just tired of giving and giving and the one time I need the givin' to be flung my way...it's like crickets...chirp, chirp...nothing. So if I am a little off the radar to everyone it's by my own doing. Nothing's wrong. I just need some Trixie time. I have a lot to work through right now and I have to do by myself. I am at that proverbial fork in the road.

I love funny TV commercials. I love the Subaru commercial where the animals are calling "Ricky". I laugh every time I watch it. I guess the funny thing about it are the animals. My favorite??? The moose. Love the way he calls out to "Ricky".

I leave you with one final note...guilty pleasures. I have discovered quite a few TV shows this summer..."The Starter Wife", "Army Wives", "The Closer", and "Top Chef". I really like all of them. Plus I am trying to get through the 5th Harry Potter book "The Order of Phoenix" before I go see the movie this summer. I have a couple of weeks.

Well...I guess that's about it for Trixie's musings.

Road Race Hangover

2007-06-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Juan Pablo! I did not surprise me that Juan won. I mean he is a pretty good road racer. I really thought Robby Gordon would finally catch a break, but the best laid plans of mice and men.

I think Aric Almirola got a raw deal Saturday. He practiced and qualified the car, but yet can't finish the race as the driver. I don't think Denny really wanted to get in the car. It came down to a sponsor thing probably. Even though Aric is credited with the win. It still stings.

The truck race was interesting. I didn't watch all of it, but I did get to see the post crash meet and greet between Musgrave and CTS Rookie Kelly Bires. I loved Musgrave's comments. I was rolling on the floor.

Now on to the big news of this past weekend. I see penalities have been handed out to the HMS duo. Crew chiefs suspended for 6 races, drivers docked 100 points, owners docked 100 points, and everyone fined quite a bit of money. I have been listening to the media, commentators on both the cable networks as well as Sirius, and the NASCAR fans. I have heard all kinds of opinions on the subject so why not voice mine.

This is what I understand. NASCAR informed EVERYONE about the COT specifications and were told not to jack with them or suffer the consequences. That's the reason Tony Eury Jr. has taken a brief respite and fined from NASCAR. NASCAR is is trying to make a stand here in the sand. Prior to today's handing out of penalities, I thought NASCAR should at least give a minimum of 6 races suspended. Should it have been more? For Knaus, yes. This isn't the first time Mr. Knaus has dabbled in the gray area. I think repeat offenders should get a stiffer penalty. I don't know. Maybe there should be some "3 strikes" law like they have in the criminal justice system.

Here's my thinking...why does this modification have to take place on the #24 and #48 cars? They have been dominating the first part of the season. They are both top drivers on the circuit. That being said...I pose this. Is this the first time they have modified the COT? or this just the first time they were caught?

On to New Hampshire for the boys...let's see who will make news this week!

The Birthday Celebration continues

2007-06-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank my co-workers who have come to "appreciate" my obesssion with NASCAR. Here is a picture of the cake the had for me.

They posted several pictures of Mr. Stewart on the wall next to the food table. There were even diecast cars on the table as decorations. There was only one faux pas....they had a Lowe's car there. Luckily it wasn't the #48 car or I would have had to take things into my own hands.

Well...that should be it for the birthday celebration this year.

On the way home I heard about Mr. Gordon and Mr. Johnson's "modificaitons". And I thought this week would be quiet with race news...

Cousin Carl and His Bearded Buddy

2007-06-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

I just saw on NASCAR.com...Ella Sofia Gordon graced our world at 9 am this morning. Congratulations to Jeff and Ingrid!

Congratulations to Carl for his first win since November 2005 at Texas. I was at that race where he last won, plus it was at the same moment where I discovered I am not a fan of Cousin Carl. Coincidence??? I am glad his crew member will get to shave his beard. He was looking pretty scary.

Oh what a shame...Jimmie ran out of gas.

Yea Yea for JJ winning a pole.

I am so glad last week is over...I have to say I am tired of the whole Jr to Hendrick thing. Too much for me to digest. He left DEI to go to HMS. That's it for me. I am moving on to other things around the NASCAR circuit.

On to the road racing...not my favorite races of the season. I will probably have the race on in the background as I clean this weekend.

Good Luck Tony!

Happy Birthday

2007-06-15T05:44:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday To Me!
Happy Birthday To Me!
Happy Birthday To Trixie!
Happy Birthday To Me!

Movin' On Up

2007-06-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

I am not surprised. From the day Dale announced he was leaving DEI, we all knew he wanted to go to a team that would help him win a championship. And here we are today...Dale will now become a member of Hendrick Motorsports starting with the 2008 season. I can't say I do not blame him. That's why Roger Clemens went to the Yankees the first time around. He too wanted to be on a team known for winning championships. If you want to be at the top of the mountain you have to be with those who will get you there. As someone who doesn't claim to be part of the Earnhardt nation, I feel I have somewhat of a different view of things. I have always believed Dale will win a championship and now he will have what he needs to get that accomplished. I know the Earnhardt nation will have to take some time to digest all of this. Dale wanted to be with a team that he feels comfortable with and I think he has found that place. He will have pressure on him to perform, but not like at DEI. He was the driving force at DEI and at HMS it is Jeff Gordon. I know Jimmie just won a championship, but bottom line Jeff is the top driver at HMS. I would hope all those Junior fans will stand behind and support their driver's decision. A true fan stays with a driver through the good times and bad. My gut tells me majority of his fans will stand behind him and support him on his decision, however there will be a few who will suddenly jump ship because of his decision. You don't have to like all of his teammates to support Jr. As mentioned before, I am a fan of Roger Clemens, but not the Yankees. I have been following his career since he pitched at (dare I mention it) the University of Texas. And I would like to think this would happen with all his fans.

I didn't get a chance to hear the press conference because I was the Ft. Worth Museum wandering through the Star Wars Exhibit, but I was able to hear some clips on Sirius. Rick Hendrick has the upmost respect for not only Dale Jr., but his entire family. Mr. Hendrick will do everything in his power to get Dale Jr. what he needs to win that championship he so craves. I am not surprised that Kyle Busch is the one vacating HMS. I just think it is time for Kyle to move on. I think Kyle has the driving talent to be competitive, but he can be a bonehead. There is a team out there that will hire Kyle and for all we know he has found that place.

I am intrigue at the look of HMS. Can you have that much talent and egos on the same team and be successful? I guess you can...just ask George Steinbrenner.

Dale Jr. Watch 2007

2007-06-12T19:01:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow at 11:00 est Dale Jr Watch 2007 will hopefully be over.

Will Dale Skywalker join forces with Darth Hendrick?

Or will he beGinn a new future elsewhere?

Or perhaps create some of his own Smoke?

Holding my breath until then...

Pocono

2007-06-11T03:59:00.000-07:00

Rain delay...then racing...then more rain...then no more racing. Part of me is glad that I was out shopping enjoying my vacation. I am not a fan of Pocono, but I hate it when Mother Nature takes over a race. Well...I guess congrats are in order for Jeff Gordon. Well, his crew made a gutsy call on pit road and there you have it.

I don't have much to say except I hate humidity and one of the stores where I could purchase more items for my NASCAR collection is no more. I am not happy. I guess I will have to find some other store to feed my addiction.

I see that Kurt B. was fined and docked quite a bit of points. I can understand why he was not parked for the Pocono race. NASCAR parked him last week and he only garnered some points for his finish last week. I just don't know. I still think he should have sat out another race. Tony Eury gets suspended for "modifying" Jr's car and he gets a 6 race suspension, but Kurt uses his car to almost take out another driver's crew member and gets no race suspension. I don't understand it. Both actions are detrimental to stock racing, with one difference...someone could have been seriously injured in Kurt's case. That's unexcusable in my book. But I guess that's why I don't work for NASCAR. Plus the 100,000 fine he received is put back into the point fund so eventually he would probably get his money back. Am I correct on that? I think fine money should be given to the NASCAR foundation instead of back in the pockets of those who committed rules infractions. That's just all messed up in my opinion.

This is just one race fan's opinion.

Have a great week!

Vacation...

2007-06-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

Only 7 more hours and I will be on vacation!!!! Not going anywhere too exotic, unless you consider the DFW exotic. Going to visit some wonderful friends, see the Star Wars exhibit at the Ft. Worth Museum and then go out to TMS--maybe purchase those tickets for the November races.

I hope I will be able to catch the Pocono race on Sunday, but if not my life will not come to an end. Pocono is not one of those races I have to watch. This will be the first race covered by TNT. They will broadcast the next several races until ESPN takes over coverage.

I haven't seen penalties come down regarding Kurt Busch's dumb ass move of the 2007 season. Here's what I would like to see...I want him to have the same view of the race as I will come Sunday...in front of the television set.

I enjoyed watching the Prelude to a Dream on Wednesday night. I wanted to be there, but my vacation comes a week late. You could tell all the drivers were having fun and there was no pressure. Racing like it should be every week. I have to say Juan Pablo didn't do too bad for his first time on dirt. I have to give him his due for daring to go where he has never raced before. And then you have Red Farmer...still racing after all these years. Plus you had two drag racers in the mix. These guys are used to going in a straight line...very fast for a few seconds, not in a circle at what must have seemed like a snail's pace to them. But they too were having fun. But Wednesday night was more about the race, it was about Victory Junction. I have visited with lots of people in my travels to TMS who have bad mouth Tony and say he isn't good for the sport, etc, but if you could see what he did on Wednesday night, you would have a greater understanding what Tony is all about. Tony may criticize NASCAR and other drivers and yes at times I wonder WTF he is thinking, but deep down he has a heart as big as Texas. That's why I am a fan.

Will Denny remain undefeated at Pocono? Will Clint Bowyer break through this week and make it three in a row for "first timers"? It's only a matter of time before Clint makes his way to Victory Lane.

Have a great weekend!

Rumble In The Pits

2007-06-06T05:41:00.000-07:00

I didn't get to see the race on Monday. I was able to see a clip of the tangle between Kurt Busch and Tony Stewart. From what I could tell, the on track incident was just a racing deal. Of course I didn't get to see the laps leading up to the meet and greet, but all I saw was a racing deal. Two racers wanting the same spot on the track and neither one giving an inch. I don't see why Tony had to give Kurt the line. They both had good cars. I can understand if Tony was much slower than Kurt, but this didn't look like the case. With that being said, I would like to address the actions of Kurt Busch after the on track incident.

I was appalled by what he did. I am sure he wanted to tell Tony what he thought of Tony's driving on the track. That's all in good, but when your car nearly takes out a crew member then I take issue with your actions. Luckily Tony's crew member was not hurt in the incident and he was able to jump up on the hood of Tony's car to avoid Kurt's car, but his could have turned out differently. While listening to Sirius on the way, one caller said this incident was being blow out of proportion and that if it had been anyone else this would be no big deal. I disagree. I don't care who it is including Tony. Car vs pedestrian is not a good thing. The pedestrian usually comes out on the bad end of things. NASCAR was right in parking Kurt. Should he been further penalized? Yes. This is a safety issue. NASCAR is always said safety of everyone at the race track is a number one concern. I would still be upset if this was the other way around. No matter who it is behind the wheel your car is a dangerous weapon even at a slow speed. It will be interesting to see how NASCAR handles this one.

The Final Lap

2007-06-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

Bill France Jr. 1933-2007

Rain Sux

2007-06-04T04:53:00.000-07:00

I am sick of rain. For the past several nights we have had thunderstorms. Some being on the severe side. Luckily, there were no tornadoes, but I am sick of them. I don't like my television viewing interrupted by our local metereologists telling me there is a nasty thunderstorm headed my way. First of all there is one of them who blows everything out of proportion and panics everyone for no reason. Here's the deal...the fine citizens who live in this part of the great state of Texas know what thunderstorms are all about..hail..rain..wind..and an occassional tornado. We get it. I think this guy likes to here himself talk. I will give him credit...he gives out the most information, but ENOUGH ALREADY. This leads me into yesterday's NASCAR race.

I was already to hunker down to watch the Dover race. Unlike last year's race Tony was in top condition and ready to race. I had friends, non-NASCAR friends mind you, coming over for come dogs and patties. And that stinking rain just had to ruin my NASCAR watching day. DAMN YOU RAIN!!!! Why couldn't the BUSCH or TRUCK race been rained out? Now, I have to listen to the race at work--AT WORK. This work thing is SERIOUSLY cutting into my NASCAR watching. But I am OK!

Speaking of friends, I was introduced to Architect's new girlfriend yesterday. She was very nice. I like her. I haven't seen Architect this happy in a long time. I have always believe he needed someone who wasn't the typical gal Architect dated. She's definitely made an impact on him. I didn't get a chance to visit with her as much as I wanted because I was playing the hostess with the mostest, but we are headed out to Big D next week for a much needed vacation. We are planning to meet up with them for dinner/lunch and that will give me a chance to visit with her some more.

5 days till VACATION!!!!!

One more thing before I go...the Dale Jr. lottery is still going on. I think the top contenders are Gibbs and Ginn. I know Earnhardt nation would love to see him at RCR, but not at this point in his racing career. Dale needs a place where he feels safe, comfortable, and more importantly feel like a champion. I think both Gibbs and Ginn would be those places. We will just have to wait and see.

I will be watching Prelude to a Dream from Eldora Speedway on Wednesday night courtesy of HBO pay-per-view. All proceeds benefit Victory Junction. I can't wait. It will be fun to watch the boys race on dirt. Have you ordered it today?

Oh did I mention...5 DAYS TILL VACATION!!!!

You Can Never Get Enough

2007-05-29T05:02:00.000-07:00

I got up early to clean my house on Sunday so that I oculd have the rest of the day to enjoy the racing that laid ahead. Just as I do every Memorial Day weekend, I take a moment or too to remember what Memorial Day is all about. I say "Thank you" to those who have served and are still serving to protect my freedom. Once again I want to "THANK YOU".

I sat down to watch the 91st Indy 500. I love the pagentry of the whole thing. I am hoping to attend an Indy 500 some day. I have a list of races I want to attend in my life time and well Indy is at the top of the list. This year's race was somewhat historic, there were 3 women in the race. I was saddened to see Jim Nabors was unable to attend Indy to sing the traditional "Back Home in Indiana", but he is getting up there in years. The race started off great. And then the rains came. I for one was not too happy. How long the delay would be was a serious concern? I mean I had this all planned out. Indy would be finished and not cut too much into the NASCAR coverage. But sadly the rain kept falling. Finally, they got Indy underway, unfortunately the rains came again. Congratulations to Dario Franchetti! I would have loved to seen it a complete race, but sometimes Mother Nature doesn't always play fair.

Now on to the Coca Cola 600. I thought it was going to be a long race when the first crash occured. I saw the whole thing even before it started. I saw that piece of tire go flying into the air. And then KABOOM! Carnage everywhere and Tony right in the middle of it all. I grabbed a cup of Kool Aid and poured some vodka in it. It was going to be a long night for me. At this point, I'm thinking, they ARE at LOWE'S Motor Speedway and it WAS JIMMIE's car the tire came off of...and MY driver has HOME DEPOT as a sponsor...it's a CONSPIRACY man! But hey, it was better than last year's showing at Charlotte.

I have to say WOW...on the Jeff Gordon crash. That looked like that hurt from my living room couch. But look at this way Jeff, you got to go home early to spend some time with Ingrid.

It was a long, long race for most of us. There were some teams who did well while the track was hot and slippery, but faded as the track began to cool. While others just bided their time and kept digging in...and look what did my wandering eyes see, but that #20 orange car leading the way. Unfortunately, gas mileage came into play.

Here's your top 5...it's rather interesting I must say.

1. Casey Mears
2. JJ Yeley
3. Kyle Petty
4. Reed Sorenson
5. Brian Vickers

And I can't leave out my man...Tony...nice 6th place finish. I do have to also give props to both Kyle Petty and Brian Vickers for having good runs on Sunday.

I am glad Casey Mears finally got over that hump of winning his first race. I have always believe it wasn't a matter of if, but win. I mean how appropriate that a MEARS wins on Indy 500 Day. CONGRATULATIONS CASEY!

I did get a chance to watch other sports this weekend. The most intersing of them was Lacrosse. I have to say it is an interesting sport. They play 4 quarters (similar to football). Try to score goals in a net (hockey, basketball, soccer). They use short and long sticks, not sure what that's all about, but I'm sure it matters. They get penalties for fouls (hockey). And it's fast paced at times. I watched the Duke/Cornell semi-final on Saturday. I had to root for Duke. After all they had been through the previous year I had to cheer the Blue Devils on. During the time I watched them, they rattled off 5 unanswered goals. I thought Duke would take the money and run with the game, but Cornell would have none of that. They came back to tie the game with a little run of their own. But just like in fairy tale fashion Duke scored with just seconds remaining. Duke went on to face Johns Hopkins in the finals. JH is a powerhouse in NCAA lacrosse having already won 8 championships. I saw the last quarter or so. I really wanted to see Duke win, but this fairy tale had a different ending. Duke had a chance to score in the last seconds, but was unable to conncet. JH won their 9th NCAA championship. Congratulations Johns Hopkins. Duke fought valiantly and have no reason to hang their heads. You rocked.

Well...the boys are on to Dover and the Monster Mile.

Have a safe week!

Charolotte Mania

2007-05-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was interesting to say the least. Here are the highlights.

Crew chief race was funny...guess Kyle's crew chief took some pointers from Kyle?

Qualifying for the All Star race was interesting..way to go Killer Bees! Now that's a way to make a pit stop.

Congrats to Newman's crew for winning the Pit Crew Challenge.

The Open was exciting. Montoya got a little excited and took himself out along with a few others before they could even complete a lap. I thought Carl was going to run away with it, but here comes Truex and Sauter. Sorry Carl, but better luck next year. You didn't do too bad as a pit reporter though. Hey, if that racing gig doesn't work out...

Way to Kenny "The Shy One" Wallace for getting voted into the race. It was nice to see someone I voted for get win.

The open's new format was ok. I am glad they didn't have the invert. I don't like it. I did like the 4/20 lap segments and the final pit stop. Do you get tires/gas/or just do a stop and go? Made for some interesting action in the pits. I really thought Matt had the best chance to win, but that old speeding gremlin got him.

Way to go Kevin! I am so glad you beat that other home improvement driver. I am so sick of them saying it's his house. Enough already.

But for the biggest highlight and the one that got the most cheering in The Park was when Kyle took out his own brother Kurt. I guess when you are racing for a cool million all bets are off. I think I would take out my own grandmother for a million dollars.

Announcement of the week: COT will be the car of next year. Starting with the 2008 season the COT will be full time. The COT has grown on me. I think it has brought some better racing. They seem to be a little durable than the old car. Those who were spoiled by the aerodynamic car of right now seem to struggle while those who can drive anything (Tony) are doing pretty good.

Dale Jr. Lottery Update: Just still lots of rumors...nothing substantial to report.

Penske: Has the pole for the big races on Sunday. Both Newman and Busch will start in the front row Sunday. Looks like the Penske team may have turned the corner. They have had some good runs lately.

I would like to take a moment to wish everyone a wonderful happy Memorial Day weekend. Please take time out this weekend to remember those who are serving, served and ultimately gave the biggest sacrifice of all. Those are the ones we need to say "Thank you" to you this weekend.

Happy Memorial Day!

Someone hit the record player..it's skipping again

2007-05-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

For those of you out there who remember...the record is stuck and keeps repeating. Someone go bump it so it can play the next song.

Once again, HMS won. This time at the hands of Jeff Gordon. Postman picked Gordon again this season. Last year if my husband picked some he was known as the car killer. This year, the exact opposite. It must be Gordon's year. He was overheating and spewing hot water and yet the damn thing managed to hang on until it was over.

What's up with Denny's pitcrew? Isn't this the second time a SNAFU on pit road has cost Denny a victory? He was clearly a dominate car in the field yesterday.

We get a break on Saturday from points and the championship. Saturday is the All-Star Challenge. No points, just pure racing! Can't wait! Did you vote? I sure did...I am voting for Kenny Wallace. I didn't vote in my local election, but I am voting.

News flash...teams are considering hiring team meteorologists. After two Saturday night rainouts, teams don't want to take any chances with the All Star challenge.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

2007-05-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

I have had a few days to think about what happened on Wednesday. Everything that Dale Jr does whether it's on the track or off the track it makes headlines. I was at work during his press conference so I didn't get a chance to watch it live on Speed, but I was I did get a chance to hear the first four minutes of the press conference on Sirius.

This decision was the hardest decision he will make in his life until he decides to walk away from NASCAR. I can't even begin to step into his shoes and to tell you the truth I don't want to. I believe this is a good decision for Dale. He wasn't, in my opinion, getting the equipment needed to compete on the level he should be. He is a talented driver. But talent will get you so far in the world of NASCAR. You need the car, the equipment and the personnel in place to compete and win championships in NASCAR. When Dale Jr. decided to follow in his father's footsteps, you knew his life would be under a microscope. His father is a Daytona 500 winner and a 7-time NASCAR champion. He was The Intimidator. To me there was no driver any greater than Dale Sr. As much as he would have liked to stay at the company his father built and created, it wasn't meant to be. Junior needs to carve out his own niche in NASCAR. He needs to step out of his father's shadow and become the champion, in my opinion, he can be. He will win one I have no doubt. I am sure Dale Sr. would support his son in whatever pursuits he chose to follow. But I believe this whole event would be moot if Dale Sr. was alive.

Now the Dale Jr. lottery begins. Dale Jr. wants to win a championship. He will need a team that will get him that championship. He wants to stay with Chevy. This eliminates several teams out there. He wants people around him who he feels can get the job done for him and whom he feels comfortable working with. Everyone's sentimental favorite would be Childress Racing, but if he is going to carve his own niche, RCR wouldn't be it. I would like to see him over at Gibbs Racing. What a team that would be! And of course...I hate to say...maybe Hendrick. But they are a long shot. HMS has 4 racings teams. There's Ginn racing, but it is not quite in the same tier as RCR, HMS, and JGR, but maybe Dale Sr. would elevate the team. From what they have done with Mark Martin, you might have to give them a shot. And last, he could just elevate JR Motorsports to a Cup team. No matter what Dale Jr. decides it will be one with careful thought and consideration. Good Luck Junior wherever you may land.

Tonight's race is rained out. This is the second week in a row the Saturday night race has been rained out. I am sick of rain. We had some serious deluge here on Tuesday and Wednesday. I thought I saw Noah putting up some scaffolding. I am going to say the HMS domination will end tomorrow. Go Tony!

Anticipation

2007-05-10T05:04:00.000-07:00

Only a few more hours until we officially hear what's up with Dale Jr. Press conference begins at 11:00 am est.

Can't wait....

View from the Pit Box

2007-05-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

It's been crazy times lately. I have somewhat off the radar for most people. It's just who I am sometimes. It's the way I work through things. I have been keeping track of "my other man". Whew...and he is wearing me out. But that's Tony...speaking his mind.

I would like to address those fans who feel the need to throw beer cans onto the race track. I have to say I am glad you were arrested and will not be allowed to purchase tickets for yourself. I know you can get others to purchase them for you, but still you might think twice about your actions next the time you attend a race. I am sure you are just as passionate about racing as I am, but there is a difference between you and me, I don't throw things onto the race track. I have respect for my fellow fans sitting around me at a race. I was not happy at the last race I attended at TMS. I ended up sitting around some not so nice fans. I felt sorry for the family in front of us with their two sons. This was the first race together as a family. What must they have thought when they left the track? I have a high tolerance for bozoes because that's just me, but about this family? Do you think they will think twice about bringing their sons to a race? That's a shame. I got a few minutes to chat with them prior to the start of the race and they were very nice people. I would hate to see these future NASCAR fans be turned away from the sport by a bunch of hooligans actions. I like taking my cooler into the race. It saves me from having to overpay for food and drink at the races. If you have even been to a race, you know how "close" you are to fellow race fans. It is not enjoyable when every 20 to 30 minutes people around you have to get up and get some refreshment. I hope the Talladega 14 get the message as well as the others who didn't get caught that day. I don't want you at the races. You can stay home and watch the race from your sofa. You can throw beer cans at your tv and have a grand old time.

Congratulations to Jeff Gordon on passing Dale Earnhardt Sr. I am sure if Dale Sr. was here today he would have been one of the first people to congratulate him in victory lane.

Congratulations to Jimmie Johnson. He was Postman's pick this week for his driver draft. Hey...sometimes it's about the win. With today's Johnson, Postman has picked three winners. Harvick at Daytona...Gordon at Phoenix...and today's race winner Jimmie Johnson. Way to go Postman!

Hey Hendrick Motorsports...whatever you have can you pass it out and share with the rest of us?

Since NASCAR is moving to a new COT, why not me? I have made a name change to my site. Trixie's Trailer Park is the new View from the Pit Box. I hope I don't get banned from NASCAR for making a name change. It's the same place with the same content, but it's just a new name.

Home Boy Takes Dega

2007-04-28T20:46:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

WOO HOO!!!! Way to represent!!!

I would have loved to seen Smoke win, but I have to say I was very excited to see the Texas boy, Bobby Labonte cross the finish line first today!!!! That's 1...2...for Kevin Harvick Incorporated!!!

I didn't get to watch much of the race today with moving into new digs, but I took a break and watch about the last 40 laps of the Busch race today.

While at the old digs I saw Kyle's wild ride. I have to give him style points. Sliding on the roof for some distance, losing a tire, lots of sheet metal, flipping and finally coming to end right side up with his car afire. It is amazing how a driver can walk away from such a dramatic crash like that.

I apologize for not commenting about Phoenix and Tony's comments. I for one feel he should have gone to the media center after the race last Saturday night. It's part of your job. There are things about my job I really don't like to do, but I do them. He has a valid argument about debris cautions. It may be just a coincidence of when they fall during the race. I don't believe NASCAR would purposely throw them just to be throwing them. Tony has a right to speak his mind, but there are times I am wondering WTF? Tony has been somewhat vocal on a few things this young season. Tony will comment on something because that's what he feels at that moment. He will get crucified in the media and everything calms down. I think last week, he just wanted to keep his mouth shut, think about things, and then comment. You know the old saying, "if you don't have anything nice to say...". Of course...he did speak up on his radio show on Tuesday. Tony's frustration has set in. He has had some great running cars and for whatever reason has crossed the finish line first. Last week's race was great. Tony and Jeff going door to door to the end. Unfortunately Tony finished second. It was a gutsy call by the #24 team. We all know if could have gone to the crapper.

I don't know if Tony will lose fans over his comments. I am sure he has Smoke Nation all abuzz and wondering what is going on. If he loses fans fine. I for one believe a true fan sticks with their driver through the good and the bad. You don't just jump ship when things are going the way you would like them to. Tony will speak his mind, fly off the handle and say and do things he regrets. We have all done them and we regret them the minute we do them. As a Tony fan, I accept this is the way he is. I don't always agree with everything he says or does, but I will support him anyway. What's my theory on Tony? He has started to eat healthy, has regular exercise, and a steady girlfriend. I for one know when I can't eat all the fun food I enjoy I get a little cranky. Keeping a daily exercise is hard work...and sometimes can be grueling. I don't know what to make of the girlfriend angle. Just some thoughts...

I was impressed with Jeff Gordon's tribute to Dale Sr. last weekend at PIR. I have been listening to quite a bit of NASCAR on Sirius and I have heard nothing but positive things regarding the "3" flag. Jeff knows what Earnhardt meant to not only his life but to NASCAR. He wanted to honor him--plain and simple. And what a classy move on Junior to congratulate Jeff on tying his father. I am not a big fan of Gordon, but he is one of the best drivers in NASCAR. You don't just win 4 championships without some talent behind the wheel.

I am looking forward to tomorrow's Cup race. I will still be working on moving into the new digs, but it will be last final push to the finish. Just a few more boxes and cleaning job and I will be done! I WILL NOT MISS TOMORROW'S RACE!!!

Happy Birthday to Postman! His birthday was Friday, but we won't celebrate until Sunday!!!

PS...Cingular DOES NOT make a RAZR cell phone that can survive a washer and dryer.

Observation

2007-04-25T05:54:00.001-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I know this isn't NASCAR related, but it could be...

WHY ARE MEN SUCH BUTTHEADS?

You've Got A Friend

2007-04-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

I was listening to my tunes on the MP3 player this morning and this song came on. I just thought how appropriate with everything that has happened this week.

You've Got A Friend
Ooooooooo Yeah baby

When your down and troubled
And you need some love and care
And nothing, nothing is going right
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up Even your darkest night

You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come runnin' To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there
You've got a friend

If the sky above you
Grows dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind begins to blow
Keep your head together baby
And call my name out loud
Soon you'll hear me
Knockin' at your door

You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am I'll come runnin'
To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there

Ain't it good to know that
You've got a friend?
People can be so cold oh yeah
They'll hurt you and desert you
And take your soul if you let them
But don't you let them

You just call out my name
And you know wherever I am
I'll come runnin' To see you again
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you have to do is call
And I'll be there
You've got a friend

You've got a friend
You've got a friend

Thinking of the Virginia Tech family from one member of the Texas Tech family.

Virginia Tech

2007-04-17T04:35:00.000-07:00

My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the fallen students and the Virginia Tech family as they go through this difficult time. In the weeks and months ahead they will probably be more questions than answers as to why such a tragedy happened. Working on a college campus brought everything that happened yesterday at VT to the forefront of my mind. Our campus will be taking a moment of silence at noon today as well as ringing the bells in honor of those who died yesterday. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers today.

God Bless.

NASCAR--Texas Style

2007-04-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

When I left work on Thursday night, I wanted so much to call in "sick" Friday morning and head on out to TMS, but alas...I went to work. I am such a good employee.

After leaving my office on Friday afternoon, I turned on Sirius radio hoping to hear qualifying, but to my surprise, Tony Stewart Live was on. I usually don't mind this at all, but I am thinking...ah...I bet they are having weather issues. Little did I realize...there were tornadoes swirling around. This meant qualifying was canceled and the field was set by the current point standings. Now I didn't want to wish any ill will or harm on anyone, but I had to chuckle just a little. I figured if I couldn't be there, then why should anyone else have fun. I know if I had been there the weather would have been perfect.

I watched the Busch race on Saturday. I did have a little remorse for wishing ill will on those attending TMS because I have several of my racing buds out there enjoying the weekend. It was weird watching the race on television. I hadn't watched a race from TMS on television for the last three race weekends. I am usually in the stands drinking an adult beverage and cheering on my favorite drivers. However, I would like to say the Busch race didn't disappoint. I was hoping Denny Hamlin would have won. Whatever they are doing over there at JGR it is working. But kudos and major props have to go out to Matt Kenseth. That was some damn fine driving you did. You saved your car and able to bring it to victory lane. Thanks for the cleaning race Mr. Kenseth. You earned that white cowboy hat!

Now...on to Sunday's race. I was none to pleased with the Texas weather raining out Friday's qualifying. This meant the HMS duo of Gordon and Johnson would be staring up front. Those were the last two people I wanted to see win at the home track. I have to say to those who don't know about Texas weather...if you don't like it...stick around...it will change. This is exactly what happened on Sunday. They had beautiful weather...they same kind they had last April. Thank you racing Gods! I am not a fan of the pre-race festivities on Fox. They usually cover things I already heard about on Race Day over on Speed. I had to laugh when they were interviewing Gordon and Johnson about the Martinsville race and my man, Tony came up behind them like some annoying fan. You know what I am talking about. The fan that looks like a complete goober when drivers are being interviewed on tv....that was classic Tony.

TMS has not be kind to Jeff Gordon. This is one of the few tracks where he has not been able to tame. TMS is not an easy track to tame no matter who is driving. Up until yesterday, there had been no repeat winner for the April race. Gordon dominated yesterday and I thought to myself good thing I was at home. I would have been miserable if he would have won. But as we all know the fastest and best car on the track doesn't always win. TMS has a way of making things exciting. I know the fans went nuts when Junior took the lead and looked like he was going to walk away as the first repeat winner, but in the blink of an eye...BAM!

I know there are some Stewart fans this morning who will probably curse Juan Pablo, but I thought it was all a racing deal. He did race Tony and Juan Pablo did get loose and cause Tony to spin out, but it was racing. I was a little giddy, when Johnson's car got collected. But this isn't where the day ended for Tony. After going in the pits to fix the #20, TMS struck back. Tony spun out and did some great driving by not hitting anything, however, what happened behind was the talk of the grand stands. Junior slowed down to try to avoid Tony and the next thing he knows Kyle Busch at a faster speed hits Junior. Now...we all know how the Earnhardt Nation can be at times. They are some of the most rabid fans I know...and you know I have to say...if you are thinking Tony is to blame...he's not. I blame Kyle Busch for this one. Earnhardt slowed down to prevent from hitting Tony, Kyle didn't. And I don't know if people in the stands knew this at the time, but Earnhardt got into the #5 and drove it the rest of the race earning points for the #5. Apparently Mr. Busch was gone from the premises. I don't know what that was all about, but the little respect that he earned is gone. Earnhardt showed some definite class. Kudos to you Mr. Earnhardt. You were raised right.

I know the booing from the Earnhardt nation bothered Tony from what I heard from some post race quotes...(taken from NASCAR.com)

"It's like nothing we can do is right," Stewart said. "Look at all the Junior fans that are mad at me. I didn't even see what happened to Junior. I know I caused it, obviously.

"I'm trying to get one of my laps back right there -- I'm doing what I'm supposed to do. There's no way in hell I would ever do anything to put Dale Jr. in jeopardy [but] it's disheartening when you have 180,000 people booing you every time you come around.

"That's what makes this stuff not fun anymore. It's not about the racing."

I hope he doesn't let these boos get to him. From my own personal experience...Earnhardt fans boo anyone who may be perceived to "hurt" their driver. Once again this is from personal experience...last year at Texas fall race.

The last few laps were some of the best racing all day. Matt Kenseth once gain put himself in place to win, but there was Jeff Burton lingering behind him. It was a good clean race to the finish. And finally...TMS has a repeat winner. And of course...if we are going to have a repeat winner it should be the man who won the first race at TMS back in 1997! WAY TO GO!!!!

And how 'bout that crazy old man...two weeks away from the track (actually three if you include last weekend)...coming away with a third place finish!!!

WTF has happened to Kasey Kahne and Elliott Sadler this year. Did they not get the memo about the start of the NASCAR season? Both drivers have proven they can win at Texas? I don't know what is going on over at Evernham. Is it time for Ray to take stock in the personnel he has in place? I'm not talking drivers because I think all three drivers can drive the wheels off their vehicles. I mean look what Kahne did last year. I think there is more to be done. I know they have good equipment and cars. I don't know what can be done to stop the bleeding. I know my friend Sadler Fan was been very frustrated by this turn of events with Elliott. I know she had a fun time this weekend, but she would have loved for her man to have a better weekend.

Couple of things...they didn't even get one lap under the belt when things went all crazy...I don't think AAA will be able to help the #6 on this one. YIKES!!!!

There was no "chick fight" in the pits this time around. Last spring the now Mrs. Kurt Busch and soon to be Mrs. Greg Biffle got into a heated discussion. But Stone Cold Steve Austin was the Grand Marshall for the race on Sunday and gave the command to start the engines. I was expecting some exciting "Gentlemen Start Your Engines", but it fell flat once again. Come on people...put some enthusiasm behind!

TMS always has a little something for everyone! See ya in November everyone!

Well....on to the desert for some Saturday night racing.

Texas Motor Speedway

2007-04-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

As most of you know I have not made the pilgrimage to TMS this weekend. This is depressing because I won't get to see my friend Sadler Fan and talk NASCAR as well as my other buddies I have met over the last few races. The upside...if there is one...I will be able to sit in front of my television in the comforts of my home. I won't have to be fell like a sardine sitting in the stands. I can use my own bathroom and won't have to stand in line to use a stall. Plus I don't have to pay some ungodly price for food and drinks. Despite some of the "downsides" I would rather be crammed in like a sardine, stand in line for the bathroom and pay some ungodly price for food and beverages. If you haven't attended a race in person you are missing out.

But since I can't be there, I will leave you with some pics from last November's race.

Have a great weekend Sadler Fan! Take lots of pics and say a little prayer for our boys!

Calendar

2007-04-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

It is so nice when the people you work with have some level of understanding and tolerance when it comes to my NASCAR obsession/passion.

Computer Guy picked up a NASCAR calendars for me featuring the Coca Cola racing family. Did you notice I said CALENDARS? I have one hanging in my office and the other at home where I can put it in my NASCAR room. This will sort of ease the pain of not being at Texas Motor Speedway this weekend.

Thanks again CG for feeding my habit!!!!

Oh by the way...look who is this month's driver!!!!

Happy Easter

2007-04-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

I'm dreaming of white Chris...oops Easter.

Operation Bunny

2007-04-06T05:02:00.000-07:00

I don't usually talk about the "work place" here in The Park. I can tell you have would lots of material for months, but I want to protect the innocent, mundane, and the down right stupid from further humiliation and ridicule. But when it comes to reeking havoc on a fellow co-worker, well that's just worth sharing with everyone.

Computer Guy noticed two stuffed bunnies in Newbie's office. CG made the comment about how you know what happens when two bunnies get together....thus Operation Bunny was born.

All this week--CG, Pony, and myself have been leaving bunnies on Newbie's desk. Chocolate bunnies, marshmallow bunnies, PEEP bunnies, toy bunnies...you name it we left it. Bunnies would just appear magically on her desk when she left her office.. She claims that her bunnies are gay, but I highly doubt it.

However, today Operation Bunny will end (boo hoo). CG, Pony, and myself have decided to dump the final mounds of bunnies on her desk for one last HURRAH!

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!!!

Gatorized

2007-04-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

The Buckeyes were Gatorized once again this year. I have to give credit to the Florida Gators for taking the Buckeyes out of their game. I did watch the entire game. Work was very busy---and I was extremely tired. I knew however Florida was going to win. From all aspects Florida took Ohio to town. At least this game didn't get out of hand like the football game back in January. Congratulations to the Florida Gators for winning back to back championships. The first team in 15 years to do so. The last time the NCAA had back to back winners was Duke. Now that the NCAA men's tournament is over. I can fully concentrate on NASCAR as if I wasn't these days.

Speaking of Gatorized...that's what I feel like happened to me today--CHOMP...CHOMP!!!

Why is it when you ask for help from someone, they give every excuse in the back to say no? It's not that I don't understand, but come on...don't whine about your "problems"--been there, done that...got the t-shirt. I have been in your spot and I took care of business. Oh well, I guess some people are just better at things then others....but as I say what comes around...goes around.

My friend Architect emailed me today...it did put a little smile on my face. He wanted to know if I was going to make the pilgrimage to the Shrine of Texas Motor Speedway in a couple of weeks. Unfortunately...I will have to worship from afar. I am hoping to make a pilgrimage to see the spring truck race and the IRL race in June. I have never been to an IRL race.

I hope tomorrow I don't get Gatorized, but you never can tell.

A Twofer

2007-04-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Sorry for the delay in posting about Bristol, but I intended to post, but lots of things going on in the Park and I wanted to get a better sense of the COT before posting about it.

Bristol Report
I was hoping for some exciting racing at Bristol. Bristol is one of the races I look forward to watching every year. We are talking 1/2 mile race track, 43 cars, and most of all 43 egos all vying for the win. I was not surprised that Jeff Gordon was sitting on the pole for the race. I mean he likes Bristol. But this race was different in years past. The Car of Tomorrow made its much anticipated and much talked about debut at Bristol. I have to be honest, I wanted to give the COT a chance. Change isn't easy for some people and that includes myself, but I was willing to give the COT the benefit of the doubt. To be honest I don't like the look of the car. I think it looks like my neighbor's jacked up Dodge Neon. I don't like the splitter and I definitely don't like the wing. This is what happens when two things merge and produce. You get a mutated version of something. I know those in power want to make better racing and I am sure that will happen with the COT. And if that happens--wonderful! I am all for that. I was glad the announcers were trying to explain all the nuances of the COT, but they too are still learning along with us. I will probably, eventually get used to the COT because that is the future of the sport. But just let me vent for a bit...it makes me feel better.

Now onto the race...

Tony looked good during most of the race in the Flying Brick. He can pretty much drive anything if you give him the keys. But just when I thought Tony was going to take Bristol...BANG...the racing Gods struck. I guess it isn't nice to mess with the racing Gods. The #20 suffered fuel pump issues. Once that happened Tony's day was pretty much a wash. Denny looked good and I was hoping Denny would win, but alas...that Little Shrub from HMS won. What little respect he earned from me after the California Busch race all but washed away. I know Tony has voiced his opinion about the car, but he has toned it down a bit (if you can tell Tony to tone down anything). You may not like the car, but come on dude...you are in Victory Lane! You just won the first race with the COT. It must not suck that bad.

After everything settled...Vickers received 2nd degree burns from the COT and inhaled some carbon monoxide due to faulty exhaust pipes. Then Greg Biffle car was found to be low according to the NASCAR specs, however he was not penalized due to the COT. I have my own theory on this one, but hey...I like a good conspiracy.

Martinsville
The second race of the year with the COT and another short track race. I don't know why I am not excited about this race. I guess I am sad because I will not be at the Texas spring race---withdrawal symptoms. I did watch the race. I was hoping Tony would dominate and see him climbed the fence at Martinsville as he did at the last race. But as we all know Jeff Gordon loves Martinsville. He has 6 wins at the place and wanted number 7. He has the most of any active driver. As typical of Mr. Gordon, he got up front and dominated for several laps. But he wasn't the only driver that dominated the track yesterday at Martinsville. Denny Hamlin looked good on the track. I really wanted Denny to win. After last week's performance at Bristol, I believe he has the COT under control. It looks like JGR has the COT understood. Denny, Tony, and JJ all qualified in the top 10. The Three Amigos finished--3rd (Denny), 7th (Tony), and 23rd (JJ). Dale Jr. looked good on the track as well.

Since yesterday was April 1, I was hoping I would wake up this morning and realize yesterday's race was all an April Fool's joke, but it wasn't. Jimmie took the lead with his fellow teammate Jeff G. behind him. As someone who used to follow Mr. Gordon, I wondered if he would do his famous "bump and run" to take the victory. The only man standing in his way from his 7th victory at Martinsville was Jimmie Johnson. Gordon raced his fellow teammate clean. That late caution closed the gap between somewhat. It was only a matter of time before Gordon caught up to Jimmie's back bumper. If Gordon got to the bumper and the win was in sight, Gordon would "move" the car out of the way. But this wasn't just another driver this was a teammate--a good friend. Heck, Gordon introduced Jimmie to his wife Shandra. Jeff likes to win. Jeff got to the back bumper of Johnson and Johnson was leaving him no choice, but to get moved. Jeff to to the bumper and moved him, but Johnson went nowhere. Jeff almost had him coming out of Turn 4 on the last lap, but Jimmie beat him to the line. Once again Jeff was denied another victory. With Johnson's win, that makes three in a row for HMS.

Here's my take...we all know if that had been any other driver on the track, we would be talking about Jeff Gordon's 7th win at Martinsville. I must say Jeff did look a little miffed when the Fox pit reporter was interviewing him. He was a little "upset" that Jimmie had blocked him. Hey, Jeff all is fair in racing.

As for the COT...still have lots of work to be done. I give a grade of "C". I wasn't all that impressed or disappointed. The boys get back to the other cars in two weeks at Texas. I will not be able to see the boys in person during the spring race. I will be at home in front of the old TV. Even though I have a pretty decent tv, it is not comforting to know that I won't be there hangin' out with my other NASCAR fanatics. But I am saving up and I am hoping to make the November race. The crews will have Easter weekend off and won't have to step back into the COT until Phoenix (April 21).

I have to congratulate the Ohio State Buckeyes for making the championship game in the NCAA. It is kind of cool they will be playing the Florida Gators for the national championship tonight. Hopefully, the basketball team won't do the same thing the football team did. As always, Postman will be rooting against the Bucks. What can I say...he is a Michigan fan. And even if he did like the team I liked, he would root for the other team just to irritate me. He better watch it is all I have to say...that Pittsburgh yellow towel sitting at the sporting goods store in the mall would make a nice birthday gift for you. GO BUCKEYES!

Have a good one!

March Madness

2007-03-23T06:01:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

March Madness is upon us this weekend and I am not talking about the NCAA Basketball tournament. I am talking about the Car of Tomorrow's debut at Bristol. All the talk about the COT will be on display this weekend. I am somewhat interested to really see how the COT will do at Bristol. Bristol is one of those tracks that is sometimes is not forgiving to a car. I have to be honest I am not a fan of the design of the car, but what do I know. If the car will provide for more exciting racing sign me up. There are tracks where the cars get so spread out that I change the channel--yes I do that and I am not the only out there who does it either. What I don't want to happen is for the COT to cause more cautions. The more cautions the more air time those pesky announcers have to chat it up about things we as race fans already know about. I will hold judgment on the COT for now. Who knows we all may like it after this weekend.

Now on to this weekend...I love short track racing. The beatin' and the bangin', tempers flarin'...who could forget the Matt and Jeff meet and greet and the subsequent pushing incident of 2006? There was even snowfall at last year's spring race. I can understand how tempers can flare in a place like Bristol. A 1/2 mile track with 43 cars racing in what is literally a cereal bowl. Bring on it I say...bring it on. Of course there will be one thing missing at Bristol this weekend...Mr. Mark Martin behind the wheel. I really wanted to see Mark racing at Bristol this weekend, but alas he is taking a break from the circuit to focus on the things he wants to do. It is a well deserved break for that crazy old man. Watch out though...he will be back to race at Texas.

I did get to catch a little of the round ball last night on CBS. I watched the A&M/Memphis game. It was a pretty good game. Neither team ran away with the game and each of them had a chance to win. And it does pain to say that I wanted to see A&M win only for the fact that it was a team from the great state of Texas and they represent the Big 12. Kind of like NASCAR...even if your driver doesn't win, a teammate can win and you are ok. A&M had the game at the end, but they made mistakes by not making crucial gimme shots (Acie Law IV missed an easy lay-up) and not rebounding. And that is why Texas Tech beat you twice in the regular season. Gig that A&M! Kansas also had a scare as well with Southern Illinois, but Kansas prevailed. I didn't watch the late games, but I went to bed seeing Tennessee up on my Buckeyes by I think 15 points at the half. But when I saw the Bottomline on ESPN Sportscenter this morning, I saw that Ohio State had won. They must have called up a proctologist because the Bucks pulled that one out of their asses.

This weekend will be busy for me..packing up things, watching the round ball, and of course racing at Bristol.

Good luck Tony and race that "Flying Brick" as you call to victory!

One more thing...from "Fox's "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" question that was missed last night...it is a 1st grade geography question..."What continent is also a country?" I know the answer do you?

Again?

2007-03-18T18:29:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I have to admit I didn't watch much racing this weekend. I saw some of the truck race and some of the Busch race. Congratulations to Mike Skinner and Jeff Burton!

Ryan Newman was able to grab the pole for the race today, but had to go to the back because of an engine change. Sometimes it just doesn't pay to get out of bed in the morning. I didn't see much of Newman after that. The race was green for the most part. The first crash didn't occur until Lap 230 with a little meet and greet with David Reutiman, Greg Biffle, Kasey Kahne, and Brian Vickers. Other than that the cautions were mainly for debris and a oil (Riggs blew a motor). It looked like the race was going to come down to fuel mileage and a last surge by "that other home-improvement store" driver. But dang it...one last yellow. Tony got a good pit stop and a good restart, but that "other driver" was a coming. I was hoping they would make a great finish with Tony being victorious. That "other driver" passed Tony because well he did have the better car. But from this fan's point of view, Tony got a little "squished" and thus was not able to challenge for the lead. That's all I ever want from racers--a clean race. That's it. Oh well...what goes around comes around as I always say.

Mark Martin leaves Atlanta as the points leader. I don't think he will race next weekend at Bristol. He is going to take a much needed vacation from racing. But of course you just never know.

Speaking of Bristol, next week we will the much anticipated debut of the Car of Tomorrow. I am interested to see which teams will be on top of their game with regards to the COT and who will be left behind.

I didn't know I had so much NASCAR stuff until I had to pack it up today. Postman and I are moving to a better place. Right now we live below some very rude and annoying people. They have no respect for all of their neighbors. They were reported for noise violations their first weekend in the complex. They DON'T want to compete with me with regards to noise. I have a 42 inch plasma TV with surround sound. I have been known to CRANK IT UP during NASCAR races. Because Postman and I are working on our adoption, we have to move some of our NASCAR items to storage. I know it is sad, but I am only talking about my Jeff Gordon things. Those are the ONLY items headed to storage. You didn't think I would put my Tony or Postman's stuff in storage. I have priorities, and I have PRIORITIES.

March Madness

2007-03-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

It begins....the Men's NCCA Basketball Tournament. My Red Raiders (a 10th seed) return to the tournament this year after missing last year. They are up against Boston College (a 7th seed). They are in Winston -Salem, NC. Too bad I wasn't able to get tickets and make the trip. Oh well, I will just watch them on my 42' HD Plasma TV. I believe the Red Raiders can challenge the Eagles. Tech plays in the Big 12 and this conference isn't the easiest to play in. The Red Raiders did beat the Kansas Jayhawks and Texas A&M (twice--in Lubbock and College Station). Plus they are coached by, in my opinion, one of the greatest college coaches of all time--Bobby Knight.

This is probably the only time of the year that I am obsessed with college basketball. I love watching those underdog teams beat up on the "big ones". There is always that game that breaks everyone's brackets. I mean how many people chose George Mason last year to make it to the Final Four? Postman didn't. His brackets last year was busted the first day. And then who doesn't love CBS "One Shining Moment". Good luck this year Postman!

I am the next two days off from work so I will be able to watch basketball. Good Luck everyone--Do you have your brackets ready?

Ho Hum

2007-03-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I thought today's race would match up to yesterday's. In my opinion the Busch race was way more exciting to me. I loved the last lap, Mr. Burton going to the high side to pass Mr. Kyle Busch for the win. I have never been one to mixed my words about what I think of Mr. Kyle Busch, but yesterday was different. Last year we saw Kyle throw his Hans device at Casey Mears for some racing thing. I thought how unprofessional that was and how childish, but yesterday I saw a different driver. Coming out of turn 4 it was obvious Jeff was going to make a run on Kyle. From the vantage point of my recliner, I saw Kyle try to defend his position and try to win. His car got loose and bumped Jeff and then Kyle went spinning across the finish line to capture 2nd. I can say I was whooping it up when Jeff won. I just knew Kyle was going to get upset. But then when I saw Jeff B. drive down looking for Kyle and then Kyle shake Jeff's hand and congratulating him, I was impressed. I must say Kyle gained a little respect from me. Of course we all know how the media wants to visit with drivers after a "meet and greet". From the interview he wasn't mad at Jeff, he was frustrated at himself. That was it. I can't say I will join his fan club, but my opinion of him as changed just a little. Kudos Mr. Busch.

And now onto todays' race...hard tires...new track...made for a fun day for the drivers. Earlier in the week Tony complained about the tires and the track. For me his concerns were something I just dismissed. We all tend to complain about things we don't know about. I have been guilty of it myself. Tony finished third in the Busch race and seventh in today's race...not too bad for a track Tony was too thrilled about. I believe once the track has had time to cure in the desert sun for a year, it will be a little different next year when the boys return to Sin City. One word to the media if you ask Tony his opinion he will give it to you.

Several drivers didn't even have a chance to get their tires warm before they were in the garage. Ward Burton got caught up in a crash early that's to the "driving skills" of Robby Gordon. I was hoping Ward's day would have turned about better for him. Elliott Sadler looked good. He ran up front for several laps and I was hoping he was going to challenge for the lead and win. He finished 14th.

Mark Martin finished 5th today. That is his 3rd top five finish this year. He is STILL leading the points. Will he race at Bristol or will he take that Sunday off? Only time will tell. I for one enjoy watching Mark race this year. The pressure is off and he can just race. That's it. That's what Tony was doing in the last ten races last year. He was just racing.

I loved the Kasey Kahne All-State Insurance commercial where he was pulled over for "speeding". Very funny. At least his car was destroyed. Are the ladies now stalking Elliott Sadler too?

I feel like I have forgotten something here in this post...what could that be??? Oh...Jimmie Johnson won the race.

Kasey and Kevin

2007-03-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Congratulations to Kasey Kahne for grabbing the pole and setting a new track record. As we know from last year...when Kasey gets on the pole...he wins.

Also mad props to Kevin Harvick for sitting on the pole for the Busch race tomorrow.

With all the fast cars today, this weekend's races will definitely be fun to watch.

I am excited to see that Ward Burton raced his way into the race on Sunday.

Viva Las Vegas!

NASCAR Fans...continued

2007-03-06T04:56:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

As I was driving in this Tuesday morning, I was able to listen to a replay of an interview with Marty Snider, David Poole, and Mr. Seaquist on Sirius NASCAR. I would like to say thank you for agreeing to an interview to clarify your remarks. You discussed your argument against ISC building a track in your fine state and your points were valid. I don't want to be viewed as someone who doesn't accept other points of views on things. From the start of the interview you were asked about your infamous quote. You stated this quote was not intended to be about NASCAR fans, but you were referring to the ISC. Now, let me chew on this a bit.

I try not to get political here in The Park. I will debate racing issues (i.e. COT, restrictor plates, DEI, aggressive driving) all day long with you here in The Park. I don't, however, want to turn my site into a political forum. We all have opinions about things and I choose to keep my political views off this site. But here's the deal...Mr. Seaquist is a politician. I don't usually care for politicians. I know there are those out there doing a bang up job for me in my home state of Texas and in Washington DC. That's why they get my vote on Election Day. I am aware the press can take things that seem unimportant and run with it. But here's a my view, I am just tired of it all. I am just tired of politicians saying something and then back peddling. I said this, but it was meant to be taken this way or it was taken out of context or it wasn't directly meant for you. And then there's the ever popular and a personal favorite of mine...no comment. I listened to Mr. Seaquist's interview and I respect his viewpoint because he made valid arguments for his position. Mr. Seaquist next time you voice your concerns about this issue take time to think about how you say something. Some times taking a few moments to think about your words makes a difference.

Thank you.

NASCAR Fans

2007-03-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

An open letter to Washington State Representative, Larry Seaquist (D) and State House Speaker, Frank Chopp.

I would first like to address Mr. Seaquist. I understand that ISC is considering building a track in your fine state. I understand that you do not want this track to be built in your fine state. I do however take issue with your comment about NASCAR fans. Here is what you said about us...
"These people are not the kind of people you would want living next to you. They'd be the ones with the junky cares in their front yard and would try to slip around the law."

Now I know you must care a great deal about your home state. I feel the same about the state of Texas. I am sure there are valid reasons for not wanting a NASCAR track in your state...environmental, traffic, etc, however I take offense at what you said about NASCAR fans.

First of all majority of NASCAR fans do not have junky cars in their yards. In fact I have meet quite a few fans in my own town, via this blog, SmokeVip, and at Texas Motor Speedway. I can honestly say they do not have junky cars in their yard or try not to slip around the law. I would have no problem living next door to them. I consider sevaral of them close friends. I believe they would find your statement offensive too.

Since you have an different point of view about NASCAR fans, let me tell you about this particular NASCAR fan. I am from the great state of Texas. I am college educated and hold down a full time job. I am a law abiding citizen. I am kind to others and care about my friends and family. I do not own a junky car and if I did what does it matter to you. I would keep it running because I care about other drivers on the road. And if it stopped running I would try to get it to a junk yard. I am a hard working patriotic person who just happens to love NASCAR.

Greg Biffle who just happens to be from your home state of Washington and who I consider one of the better drivers in NASCAR finds what you said inappropriate. You don't get to be one of the best drivers in NASCAR without some talent behind you. Benny Parsons must have thought he had the gift or Greg Biffle wouldn't be one of the elite drivers in NASCAR. Greg hit the nail on the head when he said you were "uneducated about NASCAR." That's just it.

Secondly, Mr. Chopp, I am offended by what you said about Richard Petty. This man is a 7-time NASCAR champion. He is revered by the NASCAR community. Even people who really don't follow NASCAR as I do, know who Richard Petty is. The Petty family created and built Victory Junction Gang camp to give children who are have chronic illnesses a chance to get away and be just a kid. All of this was created in honor of Richard Petty's grandson Adam Petty who was killed doing what he loved...racing.

I am not without understanding. ISC (International Speedway Corporation) is proposing Washington taxpayers to pay half the facility's cost ($368 million). This is quite a price tag for those who live in the state of Washington. ISC would roughly contribute $180 million and pay for cost overruns according to the proposal. This is probably just one thing to consider in agreeing to having a race track built in your state. I understand there are probably environmental and traffic issues to consider as well. I am not advocating for or against this issue, I don't live in Washington. I do, however, take issue with the assumptions about NASCAR fans. That's what I am upset about. That's it.

So Mr. Seaquist and Mr. Chopp, I would suggest you take time to learn about NASCAR and its fans. You never know...you may have one living next to you.

Number Juan!

2007-03-05T14:30:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I watched the last 20 laps of the Busch race yesterday. I am not a fan of road races to begin with and this was a Busch race. All the hubbub was about Juan Pablo Montoya. I know he has left his open wheel days to come race with the NASCAR boys, but this boy has some skills. It is interesting to listen to all the commentators, etc talk about Juan. They are so fascinated by him. I am intrigued to see how he will do in NASCAR, but enough already. We know he has somewhat of a learning curve to go through with the bigger and heavier car. We know he has brought a lot of skills with him to NASCAR. Plus he will probably bring newer fans to NASCAR.

Yesterday the ESPN race announcers were stating how impressed they were with Juan being able to make his way back to the front of the pact after some hiccup in the pits. Here's the deal...Juan knows his way around a road course. It didn't surprise me that he was battling with Scott Pruett with 8 laps left. Before the green flag dropped, we all knew Juan was going to pass Pruett. That's why it didn't surprise me that Juan bumped his own teammate to get the lead. Did he take a page of the Jeff Gordon Driver's Handbook? Of course I wasn't driving on the track yesterday so I don't know. Maybe Juan thought there was daylight for him to pass Scott. Maybe Scott wanted to win the race just as much as Juan and threw the block on Juan. I can't say either way, but that Juan sacrificed his teammate for the win. And there was such a big deal about Juan winning...oh my god...Juan was expected to win. I think I will get to like Juan as a driver, but I am waiting to see how he does with the Cup circuit before I can determine anything.

I feel bad for Scott. It's one thing to get spun out with less than 10 laps to go in a race, but when your teammate does it STINGS. You are supposed to respect other drivers on the race track. I know it doesn't happen all the time (i.e. the Stewart/Kenseth incident last year at Daytona comes to mind), but come on Juan....he's your teammate...race him clean. To me I would rather you race him clean for the win. I respect that. You had the faster car. You were going to pass him regardless. PATIENCE...my amigo...PATIENCE.

Some final thoughts from last week...
I know COT testing was going on in Bristol this past week. I also see that NASCAR may move up full implementation of the car in 2008. From what I have heard it sounds like the COT will bring more of the racing back to the driver. I like edge of your seat racing. I think that is why I getting more into Trucks these days. That's some exciting stuff!

Mark? Will he or won't he? We won't know until Bristol is upon us.

Well...VIVA LAS VEGAS! The boys are headed to Sin City where they will encounter a "new and improved" Vegas track. I wanted to be in Vegas this weekend. I love Vegas!

Tuesday

2007-02-27T13:30:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

It's Tuesday. That's the day after Monday and one day closer to the weekend. It's just been one of those days where you just want to do absolutely nothing. Tuesdays for me are not real exciting. It's only positive attribute...it's not Monday. New DVDs and CDs usually come out on Tuesdays. I guess that's something. There are only a couple of tv shows that I like that come on Tuesdays. I can take them or leave. I don't have to TIVO them so I can watch them later. I usually catch up on them during the summer rerun season. So my life wouldn't be over if I missed them. Not many holidays fall on Tuesday except the occasional Christmas or New's Years Day. Most everyone hates Mondays, Wednesday is Hump Day, Thursday is one day before Friday, and well Friday promotes itself. But what about Tuesday? Well, since Tuesday seems to get the shaft...I decided to do some research and here is what I found out. (All information, including notes and picture can be found at Wikipedia) (Note on the picture at the left...this is god Tyr, after whom Tuesday is named.)

Tidbits
*In the Greek World, Tuesday (the day of the week of the Fall of Constantinople) is considered an unlucky day.
*In the Spanish-speaking world, Tuesday is also considered unlucky.
*For both Greeks and Spanish-speakers, the 13th of the month is considered unlucky if it falls on Tuesday, instead of Friday.
*Tuesday is the usual day for election in the United States.
*In business, particularly office work, studies have shown that Tuesday is usually the most productive day of the week. (Not the case for me today).
*Contradicting other nations, Tuesday is a day of good luck and prosperity in the US. It is a day for progress and to complete unfinished work.

Named Days
*Black Tuesday refers to October 29, 1929, part of the great Stock Market Crash of 1929. *Shrove Tuesday (aka "Fat Tuesday") precedes the first day of Lent in the Western Christina calendar *Super Tuesday is the day many American states hold their presidential primary elections *Two-For-One Tuesdays--When Subway usually runs this promotion, you can get a 6 inch sub and the next one for free with the purchase of drink. (Not taken from Wikipedia, but still important).

California Dreamin'

2007-02-25T18:43:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Congratulations to Matty for the clean sweep at California. I didn't get to watch much of the Busch race. I was busy trying to get all that laundry done I put off last week. I mean after all last weekend was Daytona weekend.--priorities people! Of what I saw, Matt dominated once he got the lead. I wasn't all that excited about watching the race today. Not bad for someone who is without their crew chief. Once again way to go Matty!I am not a fan of the California races. I know NASCAR needs to expand their fan base, but sometimes I feel some of the celebrities that come out for these races don't get NASCAR. How many times do I have to watch some reporter ask some celebrity the following question--do you follow NASCAR? It pains me to watch the celebrities struggle to answer the question. Who freakin' cares? Sorry, but get with the celebrities we are interested in--the drivers. Now on to the race...let's see what I can remember from the race since I didn't find it all that exciting except towards the end. Jeff Gordon lead the field as the green flag was thrown by Hall Fame quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys and co-owner of the #96 DLP car, Troy Aikman. This was the first race unleaded fuel was used at the Cup level. Did this have some effect on the engines of Truex, Kahne, Earnhardt, and Blaney?

I wanted to see Tony come back from last week's disappointment of 43rd in the Daytona 500. His running today was definitely better than last week's. He did receive a speeding penalty again. He was able to work his way through the field last week to lead the pack. But this is California. Working your way through the field is a little bit more challenging for the driver and his car. Throughout the race Zippy and the boys gave Tony a good car. Tony finished 8th. Good Job Tony!

I have to give the "Tough Guy" Award to David Reutiman in the #00 car. That was a vicious hit. Of course we were able to get on board with David as he went through his crash. I have to say OUCH!!! Some times the on-board cameras don't always survive the crashes, however this wasn't the case this time. We were able to see what it was like in the car during the crash and after the car came to a stop. David was able to walk away from the crash thanks to all the safety features.

With this last race crash, it looked like it was going to be another shoot out for the checkers. Matt was in first with the 2007 Daytona 500 winner right behind him. Prior to the crash, Kevin was bearing down on Matt. Of course we will never know if Kevin would have overtaken Matt. Kevin had a left front tire go down and had to pit just as the green flag dropped for the final laps of the race. Jeff Burton was in position to possibly catch Matt for the lead, however he spun his tires after the restart. I was just hoping this race didn't end like the Truck race on Friday night. And speaking of Mark Martin...how 'bout that Crazy Old Man? He finished 2nd last week at Daytona and 5th this week plus he is leading the points standing. Not bad for someone who is running a part time schedule! I have seen quite a few interviews given by Mark Martin and I have to say what a class act he is. Here's my question...if he is leading the standings when he gets to Bristol, the first race he is not running, will he race? That's a question you know everyone will be asking.

The "WTF Were You Thinkin?'" Award goes to Michael Waltrip. I saw him with this hat during some of the pre-race coverage and I have to wonder what he was thinking. I know he wants to be taken seriously as a driver and car owner, but I have a hard taking him seriously when I see things like this. (See Picture At Right)

I have to say on a personal note...I haven't been visiting everyone's sites as I like to. There are some things going on at my end of the world that I am in the middle of that require quite a bit of attention. I am trying to juggle everything and feel a little overwhelmed at times. The Park has kept me on track and so if I don't get to comment on your postings I apologize. I have been reading them and you guys have posted some interesting thoughts and ideas. In fact some of them make me laugh out loud at times. Thank you. Hopefully, things will settle down here in the next few weeks and I will be able to get back to commenting and saying hello. Hey...Ms. H....I am so excited about your new digs. If I was there I would help you move things from the old abode to the new. Thanks for being there for me!

The Cup boys are taking next weekend off and the Busch boys are headed South of the Border.

Have a great week everyone!

Oh Happy Day!

2007-02-19T09:18:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Whew---it was a wild one yesterday down in Daytona. Speedweeks definitely was memorable. With all the talk of cheating, the last several days it was nice to everything end on a good note.

CONGRATULATIONS KEVIN HARVICK!!!!

Yesterday's race was definitely one for the ages. How many of us were sitting on the edge of our seats and willing Mark Martin to the front of the pack? I for one was keeping one eye closed and one eye open. If thousands and thousands of fans could will a car to Victory Lane, Mark Martin would be this year's Daytona winner, but as well know this isn't the case. As you tell, this was a very close finish.

For me it is bittersweet...I really thought Tony had the car to win yesterday and so did everyone else, but it wasn't meant to be. I am not upset at Kurt Busch. Tony's car got loose and moved up the track and Kurt tried to avoid, but there was no where for him to go. It was a racing deal. If Kurt had checked up harder, he would have had a rear end full of his little brother. Plus it might have taken out other competitors. I have to give Tony his props for coming back up through the field after the speeding penalty he received. But this is just the first race of the year, remember there are still lots of racing to be done.

I can't say that I didn't smile just a little when the defending race winner and current defending Nextel Champion crashed out of the race. It wasn't a good day for the HMS camp. I know I should harbor ill will, but I just don't like Jimmie Johnson. It still hurts my ears to hear him called the defending Nextel Cup Champion. Ugh...enough already. Just in case you missed the crash...here's what his car looked like. I guess the boys in the body shop will be busy this week.

I have to give out an award to Mr. Clint Bowyer. He is given the "Doin' It With Style" award. Clint finished the Daytona 500 on his room and on fire. After ending up in the infield, he managed to finish right side up. I was glad to see Clint climbed from his car.

Finally, I have to comment on Mark Martin for just a bit. I was excited he was able to challenge for the win at Daytona this past weekend. There is still a lot of racing left in him. I would also have to say Mark is a classy guy. This is why is respected by the racers and fans. You know he really would have loved to have the victory, but he was satisfied with it all. I am sure in his quiet moments he thinks about what might have been, but he would never come out and just blast NASCAR. This is the type of person we should all inspire to be. Could Mark have done any more to get across the finish line before Kevin? I don't think so. Mark was trying to hold off Kyle B. and didn't see Kevin coming up the outside. Kevin had quite a push behind. Once Kyle wrecked, Mark lost his pusher so to speak. I don't disagree with NASCAR's decision of when to throw the yellow. I was glad to see they allowed the drivers to determine the win. With that being said, I think if it had happened in say Turn 2, the yellow would have been thrown immediately. I don't even know if the caution had been thrown Mark would have won. It would have all been determined where they were on the last scoring loop.

I would also like to congratulate Jack Sprague and Kevin Harvick for their victories in the Truck and Busch races respectively.

Well...California here we come!!!

If Can't Beat 'Em...Add Stuff

2007-02-15T09:12:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I have allowed myself a few days to take everything in with regards to all this cheating. I know cheating to some is a harsh word, but that's what it is. When you are an athlete and you try to gain advantage by not following the prescribed rules, that's cheating to me.

When penalties and fines were handed out on Tuesday, I was not surprised they suspended Robbie Reiser and Kenny Francis. From what I have read it was as serious as the violations Chad Knaus committed last year at Daytona. But I was shocked to see the #10 and #19 crew chiefs sent home as well. I wasn't aware those two cars were not legal. Both #17 and #9 were penalized and fined for illegal aerodynamic alterations after qualifying. The qualifying times were disallowed and they will have to start at the rear of the field in the Duals. The #10 & #19 received penalties for unapproved modifications to the decklid which were found prior to qualifying. So here is the rundown of the penalties and fines for each team.

Team #17: Docked 50 driver and owner points; Robbie Reiser suspended for four races and fined $50,000.

Team #9: Docked 50 driver and owner points; Kenny Francis suspended for four races and fined $50,000

Team #10: Docked 25 driver and owner points; Rodney Childers suspended for two races and fined $25,000

Team #19: Docked 25 driver and owner points; Josh Browne suspended for two races and fined $25,000

And of course NASCAR handed out more penalties and fines to Michael Waltrip Racing. Michael Waltrip was docked 100 driver and owner points. His qualifying times were disallowed and he will have to race his way into the Daytona 500 in the Duals using a backup car. His crew chief, David Hyder, has been suspended indefinitely and fined $100,000. Plus his VP of competition, Bobby Kennedy was ejected and suspended indefinitely as well.

Now I have been watching all of this with a keen eye. I guess I am kind of a rules girl. I see things black and white when it comes to rules and regulations. Gray is what gets everyone into trouble.

Sorry for not posting before the Duals, which I wanted to do, but I got caught up in some things and couldn't get away. But here are the results from yesterday's Duals.
Dual 1: Tony Stewart
Dual 2: Jeff Gordon

I didn't get to watch the races because I have to earn my keep, but from the radio broadcast the first Dual sounded a heck of lot more exciting than the second one. I did get to catch the first dual on Speed last night when they reran the Duals and I was right...race one was exciting. I fell asleep before the second one aired.

Congratulations to Michael Waltrip for racing his way into the show. I know he needed this for his racing team. Whether or not Michael Waltrip knew what happened in the garage or not is not for me to say. With that said, I think as a the team owner he needs to do something to save face. I think Toyota will stay with MWR, but with the understanding this WILL NOT happen again. Plus I look for some firings to take place. I just think once Michael gets thorough this weekend and has had time to digest everything, people will no longer be working for MWR.

One more thing on the Duals...Jeff Gordon will have to start 42nd on Sunday because his car did not pass post race inspection. I bet he was not very happy and there were some choice words said after the race and behind closed doors. They showed the replay of his move that put him in front and I have to give him some props. Well done Mr. Gordon.

Well...tonight is the truck race, tomorrow the Busch race, and Sunday....well, we all know what Sunday is...

Have a good one..that's all from the Park for now.

daYATESona

2007-02-11T20:10:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Congratulations to Robert Yates Racing! They own the front row for the Daytona 500. David Gilliland took the pole for next Sunday's race and he qualified for next year's Bud Shootout. Daytona has been kind to Mr. Gilliland. Congratulations!

And how 'bout Ricky Rudd. After taking a year off from the NASCAR circuit, he comes back to Daytona and qualifies 2nd. Way to go Ricky!

Perhaps this will give Robert Yates Racing the momentum to get back to being a competitive race team. Of course this is only the week of the racing season. There is still a lot of racing season to go.

In other news, both Kasey Kahne's and Matt Kenseth's qualifying runs from today were not allowed and both will start at the rear of the field during the Dual 150s on Thursday. NASCAR officials found unapproved devices that improved the speeds of the car. There were also problems for Michael Waltrip as well. His manifold was confiscated and there hasn't been any word whether the car will be allowed to run on Thursday. NASCAR will announce tomorrow if there will be additional penalties and fines.

That's it from The Park today...have a good one....

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

2007-02-11T08:40:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I must say last night's race was a good one. With only 70 laps to the race, everyone was going to be driving wide open. The first segment of 20 laps was not that exciting to me. I think everyone was feeling everything out. It was the next phase of the race that would prove to be the most exciting. Jeff Gordon was the first causality of the night. Of course this really didn't upset me all that much. There was only one caution (there was a mandatory one--doesn't count) during the night for debris. I knew it was at this point Tony was going to make his move. He did put a little bump on Kyle, but it's all good from this racing fan's point of view--rubbin' is racin'. Once Tony took control of the race it was all over with. Of course Daytona wouldn't be Daytona without a crash. As Tony was headed towards the finish line, Dale Jr. tapped Elliott from the back. And well, let's just say there was some carnage on the front stretch. Evernham didn't fair too well last night, he lost two cars...Elliott and Kasey in that late crash.

I do have to give major props to David Gilliland for finishing second in the shootout. This was his first race on the Daytona track since taking over the #38 after Elliott Sadler went to Evernham. I don't believe David could have overtaken Tony. It's one thing to catch Tony, it's a whole other ball game when you want to pass him.

I am hoping Tony can bottle this success for qualifying and the race next Sunday. I would love to see Tony win his first Daytona 500 next Sunday.

I was reading something online last night and noticed next Sunday will be 6 years to the day NASCAR Nation lost one of its greatest ambassadors--Dale Earnhardt Sr. We miss you Dale!

The big question last night of course was how was Toyota to perform. I don't think last night was a true test how how Toyota will perform next Sunday. There were only 21 cars out on the track, only 70 laps to the race, and no points were involved. Next Sunday will be more of test for the new manufacturer.

It was a little strange to see Mark Martin in the #01 Army car. I will always still think of him as the #6 driver. It is sort of how Rusty fans feel. He will always be the #2 in their hearts. Speaking of the #2 car, I have to admit it, but I kind of liked the #2 gold car. You can definitely pick it out among the racers. Speaking of picking out race cars, I will have to keep in mind the difference between Kasey and Elliott's cars. Elliott has the red hood while Kasey's is the white hood. Even the announcers struggled with this last night...when they were showing on board camera footage of the race, they mistakenly said they were seeing it from Elliott's car when in fact it was actually Kasey's car. Oh well...this was the first broadcast of the season for Fox.

There was an added bonus for me last night...I was able to crank it up and listen to the race using my surround sound...AWESOME!!!!

I will be watching qualifying today to see if Tony can capture the pole for Daytona.

Only 7 days everyone!!! 7 days!!!

Bud Shoot Out

2007-02-09T14:56:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

The Bud Shoot Out has started...well not the race, but the Shoot Out between Junior and Teresa. Majority ownership of DEI? I am definitely looking forward to see how this all plays out. I am hoping Teresa and Dale Jr. can come to some understanding. I really don't want this to drag out all season (which I don't think it will). Stayed tuned everyone...

Now on to the race...here is the starting line-up for the Bud Shoot Out on Saturday.
1. Dale Jarrett
2. Scott Riggs
3. Boris Said
4. Brian Vickers
5. Greg Biffle
6. Kyle Busch
7. Ken Schrader
8. Jimmie Johnson
9. Ryan Newman
10. Mark Martin
11. Jeff Gordon
12. Jeff Burton
13. David Gilliland
14. Tony Stewart
15. Kasey Kahne
16. Bill Elliott
17. Dale Earnhardt Jr.
18. Elliott Sadler
19. Kurt Busch
20. Kevin Harvick
21. Denny Hamlin

It is going to be a fun race with all these drivers in it. It's balls to the wall gentlemen. I am so looking forward to tomorrow night. I know this isn't a points race, but damn...it's been a long off-season. I am currently watching practice in surround sound on the new 42' inch HD plasma television and let me tell....BOOGITY...BOOGITY...BOOGITY...LET'S GO RACIN' BOYS!!!

Super Sunday

2007-02-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

Magic happened yesterday in Miami, Florida. The Colts put the naysayers to sleep yesterday. For the past several years, those in media have had several discussions regarding Coach Tony Dungy and Peyton Manning. Why couldn't they win the "Big One" or even if they would win the "Big One" was always a hot topic. I know great players are made and validated with how many "rings" they have on their fingers, but I for one didn't share their opinion. That's like saying Mark Martin isn't a great NASCAR driver becuase he hasn't won a championship. Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino only went to one Super Bowl during his career. It wasn't because he wasn't a good quarterback, there were things at work. It takes a team effort to get to and win the Super Bowl. It was a formidable opponent. Plus he was playing in the era of Montana. Yesterday validated for those naysayers out there regarding the Colts. I always knew they would get. And once they did, they would win it all. They were not going to suffer the same fate as the Buffalo Bills did in the 1990s. To the Bills credit, they did get to four Super Bowls. In two of them, they played against Aikman and The Boys from Big D. I think Manning, Dungee and all the Colts will have a great off season. Once everything settles down, they will able to enjoy this victory. Congratulations Colts!

Now that the "other sport" has finished for the year, I can turn my attention to the real sport--NASCAR. I am looking forward to the 2007 season. They has been quite a bit of goings ons during the offseason. I have very definite and passionate opinions on them from the Car of Tomorrow to Toyota to the Chase changes. I know everyone has their picks on who will be in The Chase and who will eventually win the Championship. I am still doing a little researching. I am reading my press guide, 2007 preview magazines, as well as listening to Sirius NASCAR. I am hoping to have my predicitions sometime next week. I do think there will be some "newbies" in the Chase, but I don't think it will be a Toyota. I don't think Toyota will win a race this year. Toyota has been successful in the Truck series, the Cup cars are a whole different ball game my friends. Will Toyota be successful? I think they will but will struggle as they work out the kinks. I think the COT will struggle as well. Which drivers will have the easiest time with the COT? I think the Young Guns may have an easier time at then the Vets. Like with anything, the more you are used to something the more bad habits you have time to develop. Of course, I could be way off here. But like with Toyota time will tell on how successful the COT will be. And please...shouldn't it be the Car of Today instead of Tomorrow?

Now...we all can look towards Saturday and the Bud Shoot Out. Finally, we are getting this party started. I am getting geared up for the season. I have warned my co-workers as well as my non-NASCAR friends. That's right people...it starts Saturday! The Bud Shoot Out is my preseason game! For those who haven't been around me during the NASCAR seat better shut up, get in, buckle up, and hang on. It is a 9 month sport season. That's 270 days and 36 races, plus an All Star race. I am a fantical NASCAR fan. I wear nothing but NASCAR shirts on the weekend. I eat, drink, and speak NASCAR. Just a note, when you ask me how my driver did on race day, pull up a chair and plan to stay awhile. That's right...NASCAR SEASON IS HERE!!!

One more note...it was so great to hear from my fellow NASCAR fan--Texas Sadler Fan--from the DFW area. I know she is ready for the season to begin.

To all the visitors who visit The Park...I have all my gear pressed, cleaned and ready to go. Do you?????

Tidbits...it's almost time

2007-01-26T05:42:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

I have been a bad blogger of late. There's been lots happening "off the track" that has needed my attention. First of all Postman's nephew Pickle will be going through some rough times over the next several months. Pickle's father is being deployed to Iraq. God Bless Army Medic! Second, my friend Banker lost his grandmother on Tuesday. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family this week. Third, the adoption process is still going strong. Postman and I were told on Tuesday our 8-wk parenting course has been reduced to 4 weeks (class size small and doubling up sessions). This means we could be parents (hopefully) by the end of the year. And finally I would like to congratulate Ms. H on becoming a home owner. I have already made a reservation. Now on to racing....

It has been a busy week in NASCAR. Here are a few highlights.

Kevin H. opens mouth and calls Teresa Earnhardt a "dead beat owner". I am sure he didn't mean to put it like this. Even though Postman disagrees with me on this. I think she needs to be more of a visible owner than she currently is.

Another Earnhardt note--Jeffie Poo thinks Junior will leave DEI???

Car of Tomorrow's first race is Bristol. I guess those in charge of all of this want to see how it does. Nothing like a little beatin' and bangin' to get the party started.

Ground breaking on the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte took place yesterday. I can't wait to see who will be the first class of inductees...all I know there better be a Petty and Earnhardt on that list.

And finally...The Chase. NASCAR announced the "tweaks" on Monday. Let me see if I understand this correctly.

12 drivers
400 point rule gone
Bonus points for winning a race
Can't get bonus points for winning until the end of the first 26 races
Have to make the Chase in order to "cash in" the bonus points.
Top 12 points reset to 5000, given bonus points if applicable, and then are reordered

I am going to watch the 24 Hours of Daytona this weekend. It will get me revvved up for the upcoming season. Good Luck Tony!

Next weekend I will have the Super Bowl. The following weekend after that is the Bud Shootout. And then it all begins!!!!!!

That's it from The Park...

The Colts

2007-01-21T19:25:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4...

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS--AFC CHAMPS!!!

They say the 3rd time's a charm and well...it is! This is the 3rd time the Pats and Colts have met in the AFC Championship game. This time, however, they were on the Colts turf.

The Colts came down from 18 points (largest comeback in NFL history in the the Championship game) to beat the New England Patriots..38-34. Get your bags packed Peyton---you're headed to Miami.

One more note...the Super Bowl will have the first two African American coaches coaching in the Super Bowl.

Oh yea...the Colts will playing the Chicago Bears. The Bears defested the New Orleans Saints...39-14.

Smoke and Other Things

2007-01-17T19:06:00.000-08:00

Coming out of Turn 4....

I got two GREAT Christmas presents this year. The first one is my Sirius subscription. Yes, I jumped into the world of satellite radio. Right now I only have the receiver in my car, but I am going to purchase the docking port which will allow me to listen at work and at home.
The only way I can catch Tony's show is if I sit out in my car for two hours on Tuesday nights. Lately that hasn't been an option because it has been somewhat on the FREAKIN' COLD side here in The Park. I have been able to listen to the replay of Tony's show and I must say I like it. Delana Harvick called in to visit with Tony and Matt Yocum. It rather interesting to hear all of them interact. For me it was definitely worth it. Of course some of the listeners that call into the other shows drive me a little crazy at times. Here's my opinion on calling into a radio show...STOP, THINK, THEN SPEAK!!!!

My second GREAT Christmas gift--a 42' PLASMA HD TV!!! It finally arrived last night and Postman got it all squared away for us. It is amazing. I didn't know how much difference there was between "regular" tv and "HD" tv....but WOW!!! This year's NASCAR season will be AWESOME!!!

Congratulations to Smoke for his Chili Bowl win over in Tulsa!! Way to Go!! Tony looks great...looks like Mike the Trainer is doing great work.

I just looked at the my NASCAR Pets, NASCAR Drivers, and Tony Stewart calendars and saw the date...JANUARY 18, 2007...that's right...one month from today FEBRUARY 18---DAYTONA 500!!!

Well, that's all from The Park today. I am getting ready out in my neck of the woods for some nasty wintery weather. Let's just say 8-12 inches of snow is not something I am looking forward to, but I have my new tv to keep me company.

Benny Parsons

2007-01-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

NASCAR has lost another member of its family today. Benny Parsons passed away today due to complications from battling lung cancer. I for one will miss Benny. I loved his commentary during the races and how he could explain things to where I wouldn't feel so confused. My thoughts and prayers are with Benny's family, friends, and the NASCAR community. The 2007 season will not be the same without you Benny. Say "Hi" to the Seniors for us--Bobby and Dale. We miss you guys!

It Begins!

2007-01-09T07:34:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

That's right folks yesterday was the first day of testing at Daytona. That means the 500 is just around turn 4.

History was made yesterday when Dave Blaney drove his #22 Toyota out on the track at Daytona. He may have had a fast time, but wait until that Toyota is surrounded by 42 other cars. That will be the true test of the Toyota Camry.

I was listening to Sirius yesterday and got a chance to hear Elliot Sadler. He sounds very optimistic for this year. I did see signs of good things to come towards the end of last year. Since this will be his first full year in the #19 I am hoping he has some good runs this year and can make the Chase.

Dale Jr. sure has the Earnhardt nation and others in the media talking. I don't keep close tabs on Dale Jr. as much as I do Tony. This is my opinion, but I think Dale Jr. needs to race for someone other than DEI. I think there is too much that is put on him because of who he is. I am not saying he couldn't win a championship for DEI--I just think it's too much pressure for him. I think if there is someone who is not related to him telling him what needs to be done to get to that level where he wants and should be, he would have that championship. There's a reason I don't work with my husband and my family members. It will be interesting to see where Dale Jr. will be at the end of the season and if he stays with DEI.

Then of course people are also talking about how the COT will affect things this year as well as the tweaking of the points system. I for one am holding my opinion until I see how it all plays out.

Have a good one...

Bobby Hamilton Sr.

2007-01-08T14:45:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

I was saddened when I heard the news that Bobby Hamilton Sr. lost his battle with cancer. From what I have been reading online Bobby was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, friend, and racer. He will be missed by all those who loved him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the racing community.

Rest In Peace Bobby and say hi to Dale Sr. for us.

One more note--Get well Benny!

2007

2007-01-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

It's the 2nd day of 2007 and only 1 month and 16 days until the Daytona 500. I purchased my satellite radio console from Circuit City so that I may listen to Tony's Sirius radio show and of course the NASCAR action this year. I was wondering when Speed was going to start their NASCAR coverage for 2007 and it begins next Monday. WOO HOO!!! Plus...I will get to watch the boys on our NEW 42' Plasma TV!!!!

I have occupied my off season with watching some decent NFL games and some great college bowl games of late. First off was the TTU~Minnesota game. I still amazed how the Red Raiders came back in their bowl game. (Sidenote--Minnesota fired their coach on Sunday, December 31.) And then last night's Bosie State~Oklahoma game. I was rooting for Boise State throughout the game. As a Texan, I just can't root for Oklahoma. But I have to give the Sooners some credit for coming back and making a game of it.

It's finally over with it and the Red Raider men's basketball team can get down to business. Coach Knight now has the all time wins record. Congratulations Coach Knight. Whether you like Coach Knight or not having 880 wins under your belt is an accomplishment.

I am somewhat glad 2006 is over with. It was all that great of a year for me. However, I am looking forward to 2007. I have a lot to look forward these days. I don't usually make resolutions because well...I usually end up breaking them so why bother. What I plan to do is make little changes that I know I can accomplish and feel good about.

One final note...I would like to wish Ms. H. on her venture into the adult world. Hope you find that "home" you are looking for.

That's all from The Park.

FREAKIN' UNBELIEVABLE

2006-12-29T21:21:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't believe it if I hadn't seen it with my own blue eyes.

I sat down tonight to watch my Red Raiders take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the Insight Bowl out in Mesa, Arizona.

The first half was all Minnesota. I thought here we go just like in the 1995 Cotton Bowl. I mean Minnesota has the same colors as USC. For those who don't remember, TTU got their assess handed to them back in 1995 by the USC Trojans. I thought here we go again. Minnesota lead the Red Raiders 35-7 at halftime. I had already started flipping channels between the game and the movie Superman.

Minnesota lead 38-14 at the end of the 3rd quarter. Then something changed with my Red Raiders. It was as if a light switch at been turned on. The Tech defense definitely stepped it up in the 4th quarter. Tech kept chipping away at the score. The next thing we know Tech is within 10 points with 7:49 left in the 4th. Then they were within 3 points with 2:39 in the 4th. The Tech defense once again stepped up and forced the Gophers to punt the football. With a couple of seconds left in the 4th quarter, Alex Trlica kicked a 52 yard field goal to tie the ball game and send it into overtime.

The Red Raiders won the toss and elected to play defense first. This would allow the Red Raiders to see what they needed to win the game. Defense again came up big and held Minnesota to a field goal. Now it was the Red Raiders turn. And as I said at the beginning I wouldn't have believed if I hadn't seen it...MY RED RAIDERS SCORED A TOUCHDOWN AND WON THE GAME 44-41!!!!

This was the biggest comeback in a bowl game in NCAA history (31 point deficit)!!!!

I am still in shock. My Red Raiders never gave up in this game. I have seen them give up in a game like this. But they played with everything they had tonight.

CONGRATULATIONS RED RAIDERS!!!!!!

Adoption

2006-12-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

I don't usually talk a lot about my personal life here in The Park. If I do talk about those in my personal life I try to protect those who are stars of my posts. My job is OFF LIMITS here in The Park even though I have several stories that I could share that would make you laugh so hard you would pee your pants. I have seen the ramifications of what a blog can do to somone you work with. The Park is mainly about my passion for NASCAR. I do apologize for the not-so-NASCAR entries of late, but my focus has shifted a little bit in the last month. I am going to be pouring the passion I have for NASCAR into another passion of mine--being a mother.

Postman and I have tried for the last few years to have children of our own with no luck. Without going into any kind of detail, all efforts have not worked or they have become too expensive for us. We have decided there are kids out there that need a family and well...we want to be their family. We have started the paperwork process. I am very excited about this process. We have decided to go through the state of Texas for adoption. So I am crossing my fingers that Postman and I will have our own little family this time next year.

I hope everyone had a great 2006 and here's wishing everyone a wonderful 2007.

President Gerald Ford

2006-12-27T13:30:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

In Memorium

President Gerald Ford
1913-2006

President Ford became president on August 9, 1974 after President Nixon resigns over the Watergate scandel. About a month later President Ford gives Nixon a full presidential pardon. I can't say much about President Ford because I was just a little thing back then. I know that he became president at a tumultous time in US History--talk about jumping out of the frying pan into the fire. He survived two assassianation attemps in 1975. He was president during the fall of Saigon. He lost the presidential 1976 presidential election to Democrat Jimmy Carter. After returning to private life, President Ford was presented with the highest civilian award, the Conressional Gold Medal in 1999 given to him by President Clinton. He also received the Profiles in Courage award from Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg for his decision to pardon President Nixon. His health had been declining over the past few years. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.

Rest in Peace Mr. President.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-25T05:37:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

I hope everyone got what they wanted for Christmas. I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

A Knight To Remember

2006-12-20T18:46:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...
The buzz around town has been the focus of Coach Bobby Knight nearing Dean Smith's all time NCAA win record.

I was able to score some tickets for the next three home games in Raiderland. My Red Raiders play Bucknell on Saturday. With a victory on Saturday, Coach Knight will tie Dean Smith's record at 879 victories. This means if the Red Raiders can secure a victory over UNLV on December 28, Coach Knight will become the all-time leader for NCAA Division I wins. I am hoping he will take care of the record while at home. And I will get to be there for all the games.

I have been a Coach Knight fan as long as I can remember. I watched him from the time I knew what a basketball was. I would watch games with my father. There was a time I wanted to be a basketball coach and part of me wanted to be a great coach like Coach Knight. I do remember the "Chair Throwing Game". I remember watching Coach Knight's Hoosiers win the 1987 NCAA basketball championship over the Syracuse Orangmen with a last minute jump shot by Keith Smart. Then of course who could forget his firing from Indiana University.

Raiderland has welcomed Coach Knight with open arms. He has made some headlines during his tenure in Raiderland, but all in all he has been good for my Red Raiders.

Here are some stats on Coach Knight...

He was a member of the 1960 Ohio State NCAA Championship team which included John Havlicek and Jerry Lucas. He began his NCAA coaching career at Army in 1963. While there he coached a fella by the name of Mike Krzyzewski. He then headed off to Indiana University beginning in 1970. While at Indiana he won 3 NCAA titles, 11 Big Ten titles, and had a record 662-239. He came to Raiderland in 2001. While in Lubbock, he earned his 800th victory.

He coached the Pan American team to a gold medal in 1979 and won Olympic gold in 1984.

He is one of only two coaches who both played and coached a national championship--the other??? Dean Smith.

His Indiana Hoosiers went undefeated in 1976.

He was enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame on May 13, 1991.

Congratulations Coach Knight! I will be there watching you make history.

**just a note--I have switched The Park over to Beta on Blogger. If you want to comment and don't have a goggle account, you can log on and comment using Anonymous--sorry for the incovenience on this**

USPS

2006-12-19T06:25:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

I just want to say I understand how things can be delivered to your house later than you wanted or not at all. I know with the amount of volume things can be damaged or broken--BUT--you would think this would not happen to me. I mean after all Postman works for the company. But sadly this is not the case.

I ordered a candle to help Ms. H with a fundraiser for one of her kiddos. I paid for the candle and when she told me it was on its way I was excited. It arrived last Friday, but was unable to retrieve it from where it was being kept. After work yesterday I picked it up and was hoping to light it last night. As I began to "break" my way into the box, I heard something rattle. I thought how sweet of Ms. H to include other things in my box. To my horror...that rattle sound was nothing so special. It was my candle. That's right...my candle was in pieces, well...not the candle but the container that actually held the candle.

I looked at the box and it wasn't damaged--that's a always a good sign. It had fragile on the outside of the box. Now, is this the postal code for throw it around like a rag doll? I am still convinced that "Do Not Bend" is code for "Bend the crap out of the thing and shove into your mailbox". Luckily Ms. H had insurance on the package and something can be done. I can still use the candle, but that isn't the point. I would also like to point out that I am married to a fellow postal employee and know lots of fellow employees too. They are all wonderful people who do their jobs every day, but I'm just saying...FRAGILE means FRAGILE.

This was not the last of my dealings with the postal service yesterday. I know I should have sent the packages sooner, but when you have people in your life who have majority of what they want and usually buy it when they want Christmas shopping can be a chore. So a lot of times we wait until the last possible moment, but come on 30 minutes in line with only 2 windows open??? I think not. And I would have thought Postman (who was still in his work uniform) would have some kind of edge. NOPE...NADA! Oh well...I would still rather send things USPS. I mean after all they do help pay the bills.

Merry Christmas ya'll.

Phenomenon

2006-12-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

This really isn't NASCAR related, but as well know this phenomenon does occur within the sport. What am I talking about? Whiners.

For those of you who know me very well, you know that I can't stand whiney ass people. I am surrounded by these kinds of people on a regular basis. I don't know if I have a sensitive whiner radar, but DAMN enough already.

No one, well that I can remember, has EVER said life was fair. Things happen to good people. It's how you deal with the bad in your life that makes you the person that you are. I believe in taking responsibility for your actions. The decisions you make have consequences. Sometimes your decisions result in wonderful things happening in your life while others not so much. If you screwed up, don't blame others, accept the fact that YOU screwed up and deal with it. If people have gone out of their way to help you, don't criticize their efforts when it just doesn't go the way you want it to. It just makes you look like an ungrateful person. Plus the next time you want someone to help you out don't expect that extra effort because we all remember who you are. You need to understand that you can only control the things you can control. The things out of your control are just that...out of your control. And if you are the type that has a big pole up your butt, see a proctologist to have it removed. I hear polectomys are pretty cheap these days. Plus don't lie if you know you are wrong and to blame. The truth eventually will rear its ugly head and you will just look like a DUMBASS.

This is to all of YOU PEOPLE and you know who you are...SHUT THE F&$% UP and GROW A PAIR!

Thank you and have a joyous holiday season

New Beginnings

2006-12-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Looks like a little baby Gordon is on the way folks. Jeff and Ingrid are expecting a little bundle of joy in early July. Congratulations to Jeff and Ingrid.

Also, I see that Ward Burton will be driving for Morgan-McClure in the #4. It will be nice to see Ward back on the NASCAR circuit.

I have seen the new paint schemes for the #9 and #19. I for one like to be alble to see where on the track my driver is. I really liked the black and red of the #19 last year. It made it easier to spot Elliott on the track compared to Kasey's car. Now Elliott's car will have the following paint scheme while Kasey will have the opposite scheme.

Who Knew..

2006-12-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Who knew I still had more to do this weekend....a couple of weeks ago I decided to change a few things in The Park. Well, I finished things today. The layout is pretty much the same, but I changed the colors along with the picture in the header and footer.

The picture is a close up of cars that are sitting in my NASCAR room. Notice which car is in the foreground??? Behind is Elliott Sadler's #38 and then Mark Martin. I used Gimp to change the color photo to what you see in The Park. I think it is pretty cool. I am still trying to figure out how to make the title look differently, but I am tired. I still have a few little things to work out, but I am saving them for next weekend. I mean I do need to pace myself with all this activity.

I did watch a little football...WTF happened to Indianpolis???? I did watch the New Oilers (aka Houston Texans) vs the Old Oilers (aka Tennessee Titans) play today. It was a pretty good game--went into OT. Vince Young (former UT Longhorn) scored the winning touchdown for the Titans. I don't care too much for UT (well because I would have to turn in my alum card to the TTU Alum Association), but Vince Young has some skills.

That's all for now in The Park.

Snap, Crackle, Pop

2006-12-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Jimmie Johnson, your current 2006 NASCAR champ, broke his wrist after falling out of a golf cart during a charity golf tournament in Lecanto, Florida. According to the article I read on SI.com, he will not be able to drive for at least four weeks. Lucky for Jimmie it is his non-shifting hand. I guess if you are going to break something do it during the off season. In the words of Homer Simpson...DOH!

(photo credit: Toddy Warsaw/Getty Images)

Productivity

2006-12-09T17:38:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

It's week three without NASCAR.

I never realized how productive I could be without NASCAR. I woke up early this morning and began cleaning. I cleaned out the frigerator (needed to make room for some things), organzied cabinets and did a load of dishes. Side story--a glass fell onto the floor and broke into many pieces several weeks ago. I thought I got all the glass, but apparently there was a rebel shard of glass just waiting...waiting for the day to land in the middle of my foot. Damn...it hurt!!!

Next up on my road to productivity was making Oreo balls. I snagged the receipe from over at Education in Texas. The mixture is now chilling in the newly cleaned fridge. I will finish them up tomorrow. Can I just say...when making this yummy dessert, make sure you have a really BIG bowl. I mean when you try to mix 3 bags of Oreos and 4 boxes of cream cheese, it can get somewhat a little messy.

I then made my peppermint bark. I made this last year and it was a bit hit. Very yummy stuff. While waiting for the peppermint candy to harden, I headed to my next batch of candy...buckeyes. They sort of taste like Reese's Cups, but only...well...better. You make peanut butter balls and dip them in chocolate leaving on the top showing. They look like buckeyes. But you can eat these and you won't die. The real buckeye is poisonous.

And finally...I made sugar cookies using my gingerbread man cookie cutter. I thought they looked a little bare so I decided to decorate them with icing. I have never claimed to be the best cookie decorator, but they weren't half bad.

I then took a look at my kitchen...ugh...I wanted to scream! Pots, pans, dishes, and utensils everywhere. So I dove in and cleaned the kitchen AGAIN.

I haven't been that productive this week. I do know the game of musical crew chiefs is still in full force. Matt Borland will leave Penske and head on over to Michael Waltrip Racing to be crew chief for Dale Jarrett. And not to be outdone, Doug Richert will join Red Bull Racing as Brian Vicker's new crew chief. Best wishes to Greg Biffle who sustained a dislocated shoulder during a testing session at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Kudos to Kyle Busch for helping out Biffle.

Well...what will happen next weekend? How much more productive will I be? Only time will tell...perhaps I will take on that bedroom closet that that needs organizing.

2006 Banquet

2006-12-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Another weekend without NASCAR and yes I survived. The BCS bowl games have been decided. Ohio State will play Florida in the championship game. GO BUCKS! My Red Raiders will be heading to Tempe, AZ to play Minnesota in the Insight Bowl. The Cowboys pulled one from the crevices of their butts. And gutsy move (in my opinion) on Jeff Fisher to kick the field goal insted of punting in the final seconds against Indianpolis. Tennessee won. Guess Sunday wasn't too kind to the Manning boys.

I didn't go the WHOLE weekend without NASCAR. I did tune in to the banquet that was televised on TNT Friday night. Sometimes you have to get your fix from whereever you can. Overall I would just like to say, a baseball bat to my head would have been less painful. I really don't like Jay Mohr. He was trying to force his jokes and I found several of them, well, just stupid and offensive. He did have a couple dingers, but as Postman says, a blind squirrel will find a nut every once in awhile. I switched channels and watched Nick at Night after Kevin Harvick's speech.

For the most part speeches were the same old same old. I did think it was funny when Kyle called his girlfriend by his brother's wife name. And how the other drivers made fun of it throughout the night. He will probably not live that down for awhile. Kasey looked scared to death. You could tell he was using the teleprompter and his cheeks were so red. I bet he was scared those crazy Kahne ladies were going to come up on stage or something. Note to Kasey...it's ok and you better get used to it because you will be making a return trip to the stage.

I did TIVO the thing just in case I need to overcome a severe case of insomnia.

I am in the processing of checking out Sirius radio. How can I not be a subscriber? I mean my boy Tony has his own show.

That's all from The Park.

COLD!!!!!

2006-11-30T20:13:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

That's right winter has hit the home front. I drug my warm butt out of bed to make the trek to work in the freakin' freezin' snowy weather. It was cold, windy, and did I mention COLD? Today's high in Raiderland--31 degrees. That's right people it NEVER got above the freezing mark. This means the snow that did melt will refreeze tonight and cause even more dangerous driving tomorrow morning. We have two kinds of drivers here those who drive safely and those who drive like they are racing at Daytona. Those people are the idiots who cause drivers like me to have wrecks. You start to slide to avoid their dumbass and the next thing you know, you are sitting in a ditch on the side of the road.

I love cold weather, but only when I don't have to get out in it. Here are some photos I took from today's snowy weather! These were taken on the Texas Tech University campus this morning.

Check the DUMBASS in this picture. Apparently the cold got to him last night...that's right...he IS wearing shorts and a t-shirt and seems very happy about it.

2006 Not So Championship Awards

2006-11-30T08:25:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Because there is so much attention being made in NYC this week and I just don't have the energy to add to the fray. So with that in mind, I would like to announce to all who visit The Park, the winners of the "Not So Champion" Awards. I will be celebrating their achievements in The Park.

I have dusted off my tailgating gear and beer cooler and plan to sit out in The Park tail gating section and pay homage to all the winners. I plan to pull out the brauts and hotdogs as well as a six pack of Coors Lite beer. Since the Budweiser driver is in NY this week, I felt Coors Lite would be appropriate at this banquet. Now that I have my refreshments and adult beverages, let's begin with the awards.

The Not So Champions Award Winners for 2006

1. Robby Gordon (this year's Nextel Cup Not So Champion winner)--First up for Mr. Gordon the award for best use for roll bar foam. He will also receive the award for demonstrating how to crash your car all by yourself.

2. Brian Vickers--He received the "How to get sweet revenge on a pissy ass teammate and become the most hated HMS driver since well..Jeff Gordon" Award. I receive a lot of votes from the #8 Nation voting block on this one.

3. Jeremy Mayfield--He receives the "How to lose your ride and sit out the rest of the season" Award.

4. Kyle Busch--I know he is NYC this week, but he will receive an award from this banquet as well. Kyle will be awarded the "Hans Award" for his attempt to use his HANS device for other purposes not outlined by the manufacturer.

5. Kurt Busch--Not to be outdone by his brother, Kurt will receive the "Celebration Award" for his lovely rendition of a snow angel. Because his little brother is unable to attend, he will accept the Hans Award on his brother's behalf. Kurt also receives the "Most Improved Award", not for his driving, but for his ears.

6. Michael Waltrip--He will receive the "Big Pockets" Award for buying his way into the Coca Cola 600. He will also receive the "Big Goober" Award. He is a repeat winner for this award. He will also receive the "Aaron's Not So Lucky Dog" Award for sometimes just being not so lucky on the track. And finally not to be out done, the "I can say all my sponors in one breath" award. Once again a repeat winner in this category. Runner-up to Robby Gordon for the Not So Champion of 2006.

7. Elliott Sadler--He is a champion in my book, but I would be remissed if I didn't mention his awards. First off, he will receive the "Watch This" Award for his attempt to jump into the crowd off the stage during a taping of Speed TV's Trackside. Honorable mention goes to one of Ryan Newman's crew for his "attempt" of stage diving at the All-Star Race.

8. Tony Stewart--He is also a champion in my book, but I he did earn this award. Tony will receive the "Foot In Mouth" Award. I mean you don't shoot off your mouth about safety at Daytona and then do what you did to Matt Kenseth.

9. Chad Knaus--I know, I know, he too is in NYC this week, but who else really deserved this award by Mr. Knaus. Congrats on receiving the "How to Get Around Things" Award. This is a repeat win for him.

10. Bob Dilner--Bob will receive the "I should double check things" Award.

11. Jack Roush--Mr. Roush receives the "WTF Were You Thinking" Award. I am sure there is more to the story of why Mark Martin, a loyal driver for the past 19 years, is leaving Roush. I mean after all Jack, Mark did give up his own retirement to run another full season for you in 2006.

12. NASCAR Officials--This is group of people will collectively receive the "We can see a speck of dirt on the track, but miss giant safety trucks" Award. Congrats on being repeat winners of this award.

13. Mike Helton--There are too many "awards" and "accolades" to present to Mr. Helton, but I will mention one of them. He will receive the coveted "I Sold Myself to the Devil" Award.

14. Brian France Jr.--Like Mr. Helton, there are too many to mention. I mean he did bring us the COT, the Chase format, two races at California, and moved the Southern 500.

15. NBC and TNT--Once again another group award. They will receive the "How to Piss Off NASCAR fans" Award. I mean how thrilling is it to see all those "wonderful" commercials strategically placed throughout the races. Of course Fox and FX deserves an honorable mention here as well.

That wraps up the 2006 Not So Champion Awards. I will be taking my final laps of the season after work as a brave the snowy streets of Raiderland with not so champion drivers.

Once again I would like to congratulate Robby Gordon our 2006 Not So Champion.

Nominees in each category were submitted and final voting was counted by The Count over at Sesame Street and certified by the accounting firm of Larry, Darryl and Darryl. All decisions are final and the results were not known by the winners until today.

NASCAR Hits the Big Apple

2006-11-29T19:05:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

It is championship week in NYC this week. I haven't been keeping track of the festivities. For one I am adjusting to a "new job" and all that goes with that and two, I just don't care right now. I will probably watch the banquet on Friday evening because I have to get my NASCAR fix.

I got another hit tonight to last me to Friday. Postman taped for me several weeks ago an episode of Speed's Past Champions that was profiling Tony Stewart. It was probably taped right after Tony was his first championship in 2002. It was a short diversion from making sausage balls for an office party and waiting for CSI: NY to come on. And of course as well all know he went on to when the championship in 2005. I have put my coutdown clock in The Park (sorry about the margin).

I too will be "tweaking things" soon. I am working on a few things to revamp the look of The Park. Why not I say? However, I hope I won't cause as much controversy as the COT or Toyota. Hopefully you will begin seeing the changes this weekend. I have little under 80 days to get things tweaked before the next season starts.

I want to send out a BIG thanks to Ms. H. for showing me GIMP. The results of her efforts will be seen soon here in The Park.

2006 and then some

2006-11-26T17:13:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Well, I survived my first non-NASCAR weekend of this off season. I hope everyone had lots of food, family, and football. The 2006 NASCAR season was definitely one that left everyone talking and going WTF. So here are some highlights from the 2006 season some good, some not so good.

1. Jimmie Johnson wins his first NEXTEL Cup Championship.
2. Kevin Harvick dominiates the Busch Series walking away with 9 wins and the Busch Championship.
3. Todd Bodine wins the Craftsman Truck Series in a Toyota Tundra.
4. Tony Stewart, 2005 Cup champion fails to make the Chase and finishes 11th. Tony wins 5 races, two of which are The Chase.
5. Denny Hamilin in his full cup season wins the Bud Shootout, sweeps Pocono, qualifies for The Chase, and finishes 3rd in the final standings. This is the highest a rookie has finished since his teammate finished 4th in his rookie season
6. Richard Childress Racing drivers Kevin Harvick and Jeff Burton qualify for The Chase for the first time.
7. Kasey Kahne wins six races this year (sweeping Lowe's) and makes his first Chase appearance.
8. Jimmie Johnson wins both the Daytona 500 and the Brickyard 400.
9. Both Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr. return to The Chase after missing the 2005 Chase.
10. Brian Vickers gets his first Cup win at Talladega.
11. Jeremy Mayfield is fired from Evernham Motorsports.
12. Toyota will begin fileding teams in the Cup Series.
13. Terry LaBonte raced his final race at Texas Motor Speedway.
14. Mark Martin ended his 19 year relationship with Roush Racing.
15. Ward Burton makes a return to Cup racing after a 2-year abscence.
16. Tony Stewart wins his first IROC Championship. In the process winning two of the four races (Texas, road race Daytona).
17. Chad Knaus is suspended for the first four races of the 2006 season.
18. Toyota finishes 1-6 in the Truck Series while eight Cup regulars finish in the top 10 in the Busch Series.
19. Greg Biffle, Ryan Newman, Carl Edwards, Kurt Busch 2005 Chasers fail to make the 2006 Chase.
20. ESPN and ABC will begin covering NASCAR beginnning 2007 taking over for NBC. Fox, FX, TNT, and Speed will still cover NASCAR events as well.

There are going to be some driver changes next year and some of which began in 2006.
1. Elliott Sadler leaves the #38 and takes over the #19.
2. David Gilliland takes over the #38 for Robert Yates Racing
3. Dale Jarrett leaves the #88 to drive for Michael Waltrip and Toyota beginning in 2007.
4. Brian Vickers leaves the #25 to drive for Red Bull Racing and Toyota. Casey Mears will begin his tenure with HMS in the #25
5. Juan Pablo Montoya takes over the #42 from Casey Mears.
6. Mark Martin will drive the #01 for Ginn Racing and will share part time duties with Regan Smith. Joe Nemechek will move over to the #13.
7. David Ragan will take over the #6 from Mark Martin.
8. Jeremy Mayfield will return to Cup racing in the #36 with Bill Davis Racing.

I know there have been lots of other things that have happened over the 2006 season. If this is any indication of the 2007 season, we are definitely in for a bumpy ride.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T07:49:00.001-08:00

Rhett and Raider radioed...

Are you ready for some turkey, stuffing, cranberries, and all the trimmings? We are!

Since our Mommy, Trixie, is working hard in the kitchen to prepare a WONDERFUL feast for us, we wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Oh by the way...only 86 days til Daytona 500!

It's Over...Finally

2006-11-19T17:44:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Here is your 2006 NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion

Even though I am not a Jimmie fan, you have to give him some props. He won the Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 this year. He started out in the hole early in the Chase and was practically counted out as a contender. He won at Martinsville. He had second place finishes at Texas and Phoenix. And finished 9th today in today's race at Homestead. He finished 56 points ahead of Matt Kenseth to win his first championship.

I am so glad that Nothing But Commercials or otherwise known as NBC will NOT be covering the races next year. For one, I was already tired of hearing all about Jimmie. It was as if they had already handed the championship to him. Now that he has won we won't have to hear about how he was always so close but never could get over that hump to win a championship.

Way to go Greg! That makes it three years in a row that you have won at Homestead!

I am looking forward to 2007. I will post later on this week with my favorite and not so favorite moments from 2006.

Changes

2006-11-16T06:33:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

I know there is still one race left in the 2006 NASCAR season, but my eyes as well as others have turned to preparing for the 2007 NASCAR season.

Ganassi Racing announced that Juan Pablo Montoya will be in the #42 at Homestead this weekend with Casey Mears running in the #30. This will means Casey will have to qualify on time unlike Juan. Good luck with that Casey and good luck over at HMS.

Since the National Guard will not be the primary sponsor next year for Greg Biffle, Ameriquest (who also sponsored several of his Busch cars) will step up to the plate next year and sponsor his Cup car. Here is a photo of the car paint scheme. And of course Greg will also be getting a new crew chief next year as well. A man by the name of Pat Tryson. I haven't seen anything about Doug Richert in the mix. Wonder if he will end up somewhere else next year?

I still would like to have seen Mark race for Roush next year in the trucks, but we all know how things are these days. Travis "can I buy a vowel" Kvapil was named the driver of the #6 truck for the 2007 Craftsman Truck Series. I know owners want to keep up with each other, but there have been a lot of things going on over there in that Roush camp. I am still a little upset that Mark won't be driving for Roush next year, but I can deal with it. Postman not so much. Mark will be taking over the #0 Army over at Ginn Racing (formerly known as MB2 Motorsports) part time and sharing duties with Regan Smith . David Ragan will take over the #6 from Mark.

And how 'bout the Matt Borland deal over at Penske. I guess Matt is no longer in Penske's My Circle. Will Matt be with Penske and Ryan Newman next year? My gut feeling says no, but you never can tell.

Jeremy Mayfield will attempt to qualify for the race this weekend at Homestead. Perhaps he will be able to qualify on time this go around. As well know he was fired from his #19 ride over there at Evernham Motorsports. The #19 is currently occupied by Mr. Elliott Sadler. I still believe Jeremy and Ray could have handled it in a more professional manner, but sometimes you have to do what you have to do. Jeremy will be driving the #36 360 OTC Toyota Camry for Bill Davis Racing next year. He will have to qualify on time beginning next season. Good luck Jeremy.

And this is all before the end of the season. Of course there will be more changes during the off season. I am probably going to need some kind of flow chart or diagram to keep up with this.

That's all to report from The Park..

Mark Rocks

2006-11-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Congratulations to Mark Martin for being ranked #1 on the 25 Greatest Busch Drivers Poll.

A poll was conducted by NASCAR.com and NASCARMedia.com to find the top 25 greatest Busch Drivers. And well...when Postman told me about the poll, the first name of my lips was Mark Martin. Of course I was right. He was tops on both polls. Check out the results on NASCAR.com

Trixie's Ramblings

2006-11-15T06:38:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Since the 2006 NASCAR season will be coming to an end this Sunday, I have to find things to write about. I might as well get started with some of this randomness that fills my life during the down time between NASCAR seasons. So here I go...just ten things that are randomly wandering my mind this morning.

1. Bobby Knight incident--moot point and too much media coverage. Was the NASCAR media covering the event?

2. When it's cold outside dress appropriately and don't bitch when you are freezing especially if all you have on is a t-shirt, shorts, and flip flops. Get a clue! Watch the freakin' weather channel!

3. If someone works for you and they decide to move on to a better opportunity, don't treat them like dirt.

4. Thanksgiving is next Thursday and that means the start of the Christmas shopping season. I am already kind of tired of Christmas. These stores start earlier and earlier with putting out Christmas decorations. I am a "one holiday" at a time gal.

5. I was a Garanimals kid. And for the past few days I look like I used the Garanimals to dress my self. I'm not real good about matching things. So perhaps there should be adult Garanimals.

6. It's Jimmie's championship to lose. Go Matty!

7. Emmitt Smith danced his ass off last night on "Dancing with the Stars." I voted. Did you?

8. Ohio State and Michigan will play each other this weekend. Oh by the way...Ohio State is ranked #1 with Michigan right behind them at #2.

9. Postman is running for President of his local letter carrier union. Good Luck!

10. Red means stop people. When the light turns red STOP!!!!

Dancin' With Emmitt

2006-11-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Yes, I have been watching Dancing with the Stars this season. Tonight is the last one of the season. It is down to Mario Lopez (Slater from "Saved by the Bell) and Emmitt Smith (who needs no introduction).

I will be rooting for Mr. Smith. After all he does hold the all-time NFL rushing record just above Mr. Walter Peyton. And he has THREE Super Bowl rings. Oh did I mention he played for the Dallas Cowboys. And if you make a showing at a NASCAR race well then you are alright in my book!

Good luck to Emmitt and his partner Cheryl Burke!

One More To Go

2006-11-12T20:05:00.000-08:00

Trixie radioed...

Well, it looks like we are down to the last race of the year. Before we get to that fact, let's revisit today.

Congratulations to Mr. Harvick! He was running on a defective battery late was not on full voltage. He needed a push from the wrecker to jump start his car after the late race crash. Tony finished 14th.

I think the Chase has come down to really two drivers Mr. Johnson and Mr. Kenseth. Jimmie just has to finish in the 12th position to claim the championship. Am I happy about this fact? Not so much, but I will deal with. I do have to give him his props. He was at one time 8th in the standings and people were considering him not to challenge for the title including myself. But he has battled back and had some good finishes including the last two. This may be the year that finally gets him over the hump. But all my support will be thrown Matty's way.

Rumor...DEI to purchase RYR? I am holding on to my thoughts until I see further reports.

Next week will end this 2006 NASCAR season. I will have to fill my Sundays with other activities. I have football. The Cowboys are keeping me guessing as well as my Red Raiders. This also means I will have to find other things to write about here in The Park. Don't worry...I have lots of things to comment about which don't usually get discussed during NASCAR season. I am looking forward to next year. Tony will be back in the Chase and I hope with Elliott and The Biff coming in with him. There will be lots of changes to talk about. Will the Chase format get "tweaked"? The only thing I want to see is more points for winning a race. I think Buschwhacking will be looked at as well.

Not only will I be watching the last Cup race of the season next Sunday, but I will also be watching next Saturday the #1 Ohio State Buckeyes vs #2 Michigan Woleverines battle at The Horseshoe in Colombus. This is HUGE!! Depending on when the Busch race is televised, I may have to miss it. I have grown up a Buckeye fan...well since coming out of the womb. I remember sitting with my father watching the Bucks during the Woody Hayes days. I saw OSU gig those Aggies in the 1987 Cotton Bowl. I was thrilled when they won the National Championship in 2002. My fellow Red Raiders played OSU that year. We lost, but we put up a valiant effort. Of course Postman will be rooting for Michigan. That's right I married a Michigan fan. I just tell my father Postman married up. I love you Postman.

Oh one more thing...YOU ROCK KANSAS STATE!!! You did what my Red Raiders should have done a couple of weeks ago. BEAT UT!!!

That's all from The Park today.