This Prop 8 Shit.

I was gonna mention it earlier on but fuck it I had forgotten. Anyway, while the election aka Barack Obama=complete domination was goin down, in Cali they were votin on whether to overturn the Gay Marriage law (aka Prop 8) and with 52% or some shit like that...they did indeed do it.

I couldn't help but notice ppl's Facebook statuses bitchin about this. Me personally, it's a gray area for me and this is my time to break down why even if I don't really agree with gay ppl gettin married, I don't really care.

Why I think it's fucked up:
1) It's Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve or Eve and Julie.
2) It just doesn't look right.

Why I don't necessarily think it's a big deal:
1) People hardly follow the Bible word for word anyway and less ppl believe in God these days.
2) If you love someone like that and could see yourself with them for the rest of ur life then fuck it.

Me personally, if I was in Cali and had a gun to my head to vote on Prop 8...yeah I would've voted yes to it. I don't have a problem with homosexual people living together, bonin each other, celebrating life with each other all that good shit. At the end of the day, ehhhh, I don't know about them being in harmony in that aspect, particularly getting nuptials. At the same time though, it doesn't directly affect me and it shouldn't be my choice to affect other people's lives and lifestyles. Ultimately, I would have remained neutral to the whole thing if that gun wasn't pointed to my head hah.

BUT: I am 100% against them having children. Imagine being the adopted child and growing up having two fathers or two mothers. I'm a firm believer that you need to have a father figure in your life to keep you steady, tough and level-headed, while the mother is the nurturer, care-taker and the one who you draw your strength from. You can't have that balance if you have it skewed one way or another.

And so on.

NFL Week 11 Bettors Guide.

Last Week: 7-6 against the spread (there was no line on the Indy-Pitt game til late); 9-5 straight up.

Tonight:
New York Jets (+3.5) @ New England Patriots- I'm gonna stop doubtin my squad. Anytime you can win 47-3 in the NFL, I don't care who the opponent is that is complete domination at its finest. This rivalry has been fairly one-sided lately with the Patriots winning five of the last six games straight up. However, the Jets are 2-1 ATS in the Razor, including a straight-up victory here in 2006. These games here have been real close and I expect the same here. If Favre plays mistake-free football again and the secondary can contain Wes Welker (he's more viable at this point than Randy Moss); the Jets will leave here with a victory. Jets 21 Patriots 17

1pm Games:
Chicago Bears (NL) @ Green Bay Packers- How could I forget that these two are playing hah. Anyhow, there's no line as of yet due to the uncertain status of Kyle Orton. I do expect however the Bears to continue their mastery of the Packers this year in Green Bay regardless of QB. They've won four consecutive times up in Lambeau and 6 of 8 overall. The Bears realize the urgency of the situation and in order to stay ahead in the muddled NFC North, their defense has to step it up and I believe they will against a now-pedestrian Packers' offense. Chicago 20 Green Bay 13

Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons (-6.5)- I am sold on this Falcons' squad. They can bring the heat on the defensive side of the ball and are gaining confidence with every down on offense. Matt Ryan is the runaway Offensive Rookie of the Year and some people may argue that he should get some MVP consideration. Mike Smith has done a simply tremendous job with this team, whom I'm sure are winning back their fans REAL QUICK. They're gonna have a field day with Denver's shit defense and Cutler is gonna have to do the same thing Drew Brees did last week. The Cutler-Marshall express are gonna get theirs but if the Falcons force turnovers...game over. Falcons 34 Broncos 24

Oakland Raiders (+10.5) @ Miami Dolphins- The oddsmakers IMO are giving Miami a little too much credit. Granted, it's another west coast team traveling to the East for a matchup...but Oakland last time they did this almost pulled off a shocker in Buffalo before falling short 24-23. Since then however, Oakland has had ZERO offense. Miami will have no problem dealing with that dreadful unit...but Oakland's defense (namely secondary) will keep them in this game and help them cover. Oakland last time they came to Miami actually came away with a W, they will come out with a L this time. But they'll finally score a TD. Dolphins 17 Raiders 7

Baltimore Ravens (+6.5) @ New York Giants- I'm surprised for a game featuring two of the top 6 teams in football right now (I'd rank them NYG, TEN, BAL, PIT, CAR, ATL) that the Ravens are this lightly regarded. The huge matchup here is the Ravens' O-Line vs. the Giants' ferocious D-Line. If Joe Flacco can stay upright they'll have a chance to win this game. The Giants on offense will punish you with Brandon Jacobs and then come slashin at you with Derrick Ward (a poor man's Brian Westbrook). It'll be a higher scoring game than people think. The defending champs win. Baltimore covers. Giants 24 Ravens 20

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts (-8.5)- The Texans play the Colts tough...at Reliant Stadium. On the road, they typically get manhandled and this Sunday will be no exception. If Joe Flacco and the Ravens can put up a 41 spot on this defense, I'm sure Peyton Manning could do that in his sleep. Houston will score some points (you figure you can when you have Steve Slaton and Andre Johnson as your weapons) but Indy is gonna have a field day. Colts 38 Texans 17

Philadelphia Eagles (-9) @ Cincinnati Bengals- The Bengals are actually 2-0 ATS vs. NFC opponents this year. The Bengals will leave 2-1 ATS vs. NFC opponents this year. Yeah, they had the bye week to prepare but Philly is none too pleased about their loss last week to the G-Men. Ryan Fitzpatrick is not ready for what's gonna happen to him here; he's gonna get blitzed into submission. Eagles 28 Bengals 9

New Orleans Saints @ Kansas City Chiefs (+5.5)- If the NFL awarded moral victories, the Chiefs would be leading the AFC West at this point hah. What a gutsy performance versus the Chargers; unfortunately that botched extra point snap did them in. The Saints can air it out with anyone, the problem is that they have NO running game...and that's one way to get to the Chiefs. But their beleagured run defense only allowed 92 yards rushing last week, including 78 to LaDanian Tomlinson. Tyler Thigpen has been playing out of his mind, and with the Saints having difficulty forcing turnovers...you know what? I'm pickin this upset (I know a lot of ppl are pounding the Saints' line thinking it'll be easy- boy are they in for a shock). Chiefs 31 Saints 24

Detroit Lions @ Carolina Panthers (-14)- I'm not gonna waste much time here. The Lions let me down big-time last week in what was probably their 2nd best chance to avoid going winless. Jake Delhomme had the worst game of his career at Oakland. At least Oakland has a decent secondary. The Lions have nothing. Oh, just run the ball Carolina and you'll be fine. Panthers 31 Lions 7 (garbage TD in the waning moments)

Minnesota Vikings @ Tampa Bay Bucs (-3.5)- Minnesota's defense was great last week. But two non-offensive TDs by Green Bay made the score close. This game is probably gonna be the hardest for me to choose because neither one of these teams are spectacular, but are efficent enough to win games. Tampa Bay has a little bit more to work with however than just the Adrian Petersons. Bucs 20 Vikings 14

4/815pm Games:
Arizona Cardinals (-3) @ Seattle Seahawks- The Cardinals are a perfect 2-0 ATS on the road vs. their NFC West opposition. They would love nothing more than to lay the hammer down on this hapless squad; which although they played hard @ Miami, fell short. Miami does not possess the firepower Arizona does...and this is not 2005. Even their home-field advantage has taken a hit, going 1-3 at home this year. I think this is a steal, even with the Cards having a day less to rest. After this game, the Cards will be 7-3 and up on the division 4 games with 5 to play (since unfortunately the Rams and 49ers play each other). Cardinals 35 Seahawks 13

St. Louis Rams (+6) @ San Francisco 49ers- The Niners almost shocked the world (who woulda thought beating Arizona would constitute that hah) last Monday night but were unable to hold on. Besides, what the fuck was that play call at the end? Meanwhile, the Rams simply got napalmed out of New Jersey and find themselves here. This one is gonna be an ugly one and I feel pity for those that have to partake in watching this. In the past 2 years, both teams have combined to score less than 40 between the two- and this game will be no exception. Niners win and move into second place LOL...Rams cover (don't make me foolish again though). Niners 17 Rams 13

Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+3)- One thing about this rivalry, NEVER be the favorite...you almost always straight-up lose hah. Plus, this is right up Jacksonville's alley...it's a highly regarded opponent that they can actually get up for (they've beaten the Broncos and Colts on the road this year). Tennessee is undefeated and it's a mystery of life...but the Bears took away their most dangerous dimension last week- their running game. Somehow, Kerry Collins beat them with his arm. If this happens 2 weeks in a row, I will shit myself but I won't have to worry. Plus, it'll go down to the final play. Josh Scobee has ice water in his veins, and will kick the Titans from the ranks of the unbeaten. Jaguars 16 Titans 13

San Diego Chargers (+5) @ Pittsburgh Steelers- The Steelers have struggled in important games this year, losing to the Eagles, Giants and Colts (the last two being at home and could be argued that they let those slip away). Ben Roethlisberger is scheduled to play with his bum right shoulder, and Willie Parker may play as well with a shoulder harness...but clearly won't be at 100%. Random fact of the day- This is the 4th of 7 consecutive games the Steelers either play at 4:15 or in primetime. The Chargers are good on offense...but you don't know what to expect from them on defense. They're better than that 4-5 mark and it's time for their second half run. Upset time. Chargers 24 Steelers 17

Dallas Cowboys (-1.5) @ Washington Redskins- The two biggest questions are: 1) How much of an impact can Tony Romo have with his pinkie if he does play on Sunday night? 2) Will Clinton Portis play? The 2nd one is much more important IMO. The Redskins will have a vastly more difficult time beating the Cowboys without their MVP (and my current vote for that award). The Cowboys have struggled ATS versus the Redskins...and this game is ridiculously important for the Cowboys if they want to make their second half push in the division and conference. It'll be a good game both teams will play hard but finally, Dallas wins. Cowboys 24 Redskins 21

Monday Night:
Cleveland Browns (+5) @ Buffalo Bills- The Browns have a worse closer mentality than the New York Mets bullpen. The Bills meanwhile, after starting off the year hot, have suddenly become lethargic particularly on offense. GIVE MARSHAWN LYNCH THE FUCKIN BALL. Cleveland shined in their previous Monday Night Football performance, givin the defending champs arguably the most unexpected beating in the NFL this year (35-14) meanwhile we all remember what happened the last time Buffalo hosted a MNF game dear God. Buffalo finally gets off the schnide (they have to if they wanna remain in that AFC race) but Cleveland gets their cover on. Buffalo 27 Cleveland 23

And so on.

5 Must-Haves for the Hood.

1) Sidekick- You're not a true gangsta unless you have one of these contraptions. I feel like everyone in the hood from the Chicken Noodle Soup era (13-18 year olds) to the lazyasses who just want AIM on their side pocket 24/7 must have this thing.

2) Myspace- It's the new BlackPlanet baby yeahhh! Plus, why pay for Adult FriendFinder or chill on the corner peepin onion booties when you can do it from the comfort of your sidekick or library or home?

3) A pair of epileptic-causin Nike sneakers: Sure, let's all pretend now that we're 80s babies when most of these fucks who are dressin up like this were born in the 90s. Don't be mad that Soul Train was before your time and you have now been further nigga-ized by 106 and Park.

4) Some complicated hand-shake (dap): Since everybody apparently still wants to be a gangbanger even in skinny jeans down to the thigh area and rocker belts...to have your own set, you and your boys need to come with a 7-10 combo handshake which boggles the eyes and would win a national Dap competition one day. Personally I'm surprised BET hasn't forumlated a reality TV show based on this.

5) The Cockfest Bar (no homo): When that itis sets in after a heavy round of blazin, why would you want to head all the way out to the city to strike out, when you can strike out in your own backyard? Many guys think this way, hence leading to a 27 on 2 assault on women who on average would even make DK look like T.I in a side-by-side profile; but due to the dearth of females, it's survival of the....I don't know. It's some darkass spot on the corner or on the middle of the block that only pops off after 3am.

And so on.

College Football Top 25 Bettors Guide.

Sometimes I hate having to do this early in the week...but with #14 Ball State in the house tonight I have no other option. It can be to your advantage however especially if you pick a favorite. This is because sometimes a lot of ppl will put money on a favorite (i.e last week with USC starting out as a 17 point favorite over Cal) and the line will shift (USC by gametime was 22.5 point favorites). Not that it mattered because USC only won 17-3 but had USC won 21-3, I would have hit it (since I got USC at -17) but people who got it later would have failed. Anyways.

Last Week: 15-4 straight up; 11-8 against the spread.

Tonight:
#14 Ball State (-19.5) @ Miami Ohio (7pm- ESPN2): Perfect time for an upset bid right? Not a chance. Miami (OH) actually beat BSU last year 14-13 on the road but this Ball State team is much more explosive than that team last year. Ball State has been held to under 30 only once and in MAC play have scored 35+ in every game except one (31-0 win over Toledo). Miami Ohio has been decimated in their last two games by a combined 91-38 over Buffalo and Kent State, and Ball State is in another league compared to those two. Ball State 45 Miami (Ohio) 17

Friday:
#22 Cincinnati @ Louisville (+3.5) (8pm- ESPN): There is no team which I have less faith in in the nation than Louisville. Yet why the hell am I taking them here again? Last year, they went on the road to then #15 and undefeated Cincinnati and pulled off the 28-24 upset. Cincinnati is nothing special yes, but they get Ws and that's what matters. With Louisville, you never know what to expect. For example, for the 2nd year in a row they lose to Syracuse for God's sake...yet they beat South Florida. Lord knows. Anyways just to continue the trend...Louisville 23 Cincinnati 20

Saturday:
Mississippi State (+20) @ #1 Alabama (745pm- ESPN): I know initially I thought Alabama should have no problem with Mississippi State but a few things jumped out at me which made me cautious. Miss State has won the last two meetings (albeit Alabama was nowhere near the team they are now), and in their 3 games against ranked opponents this year (Auburn, Vanderbilt, LSU), they are 3-0 ATS and have lost by 1, won straight up, and lost by 10. Alabama is motivated enough not to get upset, especially at home...but MSU are gamers, and they will give Alabama everything they can handle, but Alabama's superior talent will overcome at the end. Alabama 23 Mississippi State 10

#3 Texas @ Kansas (+13.5) (1230pm- FSN): They haven't played each other since 2005, when the Vince Young-led Longhorns annihilated Kansas 66-14 in Austin; taking a 52-0 lead into halftime. However, the year before that- Kansas nearly pulled off the upset but Texas came from behind 27-23 in Lawrence. Although they are 0-3 against ranked opponents this year, they are 2-1 ATS in those same games. Also, interestingly enough this is only the second time ALL YEAR Texas plays a game away from their home state (Colorado was their first). Texas is lookin to stay in the NC hunt, while Kansas is trying to salvage their season and have an outside chance of still making it to the Big 12 title game. Their offense can put in work, problem is...their defense can't make stops when needed to (see game @ Nebraska last week). Texas 45 Kansas 35

#25 South Carolina (+21) @ #4 Florida (330pm- CBS): OK, so I lied when I said I'll never bet against Florida again this year. The nation's best overall team right now IMO have been point-spread covering beasts, covering all 8 times they have won this year. However, they're going up against South Carolina, who has given them minor issues lately including 2 years ago in Gainesville, where it took 3 blocked kicks to avert the upset. The Gamecocks are 1-1 ATS this year versus ranked opponents (Georgia and LSU) and have won their last 2 road games overall. In all 3 of their losses, they have lost by 7 points each and unbelievably they haven't allowed more than 24 points all year. Florida will do work and put an end to that; but it'll be a bit tougher than expected. Florida 34 South Carolina 17

#6 USC (-22.5) @ Stanford (7pm- Versus): I'm confused. Yes I understand Stanford is better than that team that upset the Trojans in LA last year as 41 point underdogs (ppl forget they CAME FROM BEHIND in that one). Yes they could feasibly be 7-3 right now, letting 2 games slip away late (UCLA and Oregon). But you can't be serious right now. USC has allowed ONE touchdown in the state of California all year (7 overall- 4 @ Oregon State, 1 @ Virginia, 1 @ Arizona) and if you think they have forgotten about what happened last year, you're on crack. True, their offense needs some improvement but with that defense, God bless and goodnight. USC 31 Stanford 0

#7 Utah (-28.5) @ San Diego State (8pm- The Mountain): San Diego State's hope- they "only" lost 23-7 to Utah in Salt Lake City. The problem? They are by far the worst team in the Mountain West Conference this year. Their 2 games against TCU and BYU, the other class of the MWC? Combined 82-19 losses...though they can be proud that they covered at BYU hah. Oh, and they lost to the 2nd worst team in the conference Wyoming 35-10. Good God. Well, Utah's not really a team that annihilates opponents like that but this is a perfect opportunity for them to tune up for their Holy War vs. BYU next week. The numbers are all there. Expect complete domination. Utah 42 San Diego State 3

Indiana (+34.5) @ #8 Penn State (Noon- Big Ten Network): On Monday I said to myself this should be a bloodbath. It will be, but with a caveat. Although the Hoosiers are 3-7 overall, have lost to Ball State and Central Michigan (albeit the class of the MAC this year) and just got destroyed by a struggling Wisconsin team...they're not THAT bad...wait yes they are but not 35 point underdog bad. Besides, Penn State as of late has been struggling on the offensive side of the ball. That will not be the case this Saturday, as Indiana's defense has allowed 38 touchdowns this year, while PSU has only allowed 14. Yeah, the numbers are there, but do you really think Penn State can cover this many points? I don't think so. They'll fall a little short here. Penn State 38 Indiana 7

#9 Boise State (-34.5) @ Idaho (5pm): Thank God I don't have to be anywhere near a TV for this one. Boise State has had their way with WAC opponents this year. Their smallest margin of victory is 17; haven't allowed more than 16 points in any contest...and the scariest thing about this particular matchup? Last week- BSU won 49-14 over Utah State(covering for me at -31.5; tying the spread otherwise for ppl who got it at -35) while committing 12 penalties and turning the ball over three times. Idaho has played better in recent weeks, covering their last 2 games and even winning one- over New Mexico State. But they lost by 44 last year to Boise and if you think they have a chance in hell, I'd give the Republicans in any presidental race a better chance of winning California. Boise State 55 Idaho 10

#10 Georgia @ Auburn (+8) (1230pm): The Deep South's Oldest Rivalry. Georgia has dominated the last two years, winning 37-15 and 45-20 respectively. So why is the spread so low? Georgia struggles to cover...they're 3-6 ATS; 1-5 in the last 6 games overall. Auburn has really struggled this year especially on the offensive side of the ball; contributing to their recent 4-game losing streak in D-1A play (Tennessee-Martin does not count hah). They've been pretty bad ATS as well though with ONE cover the entire year (in the first game of the season vs. Louisiana-Monroe). With that in mind however, Auburn has not played a conference game all year decided by more than 10 points. I think Auburn will get Georgia to play into their ugly style of play...and I'm callin it- I'm gonna go with the upset. Auburn 17Georgia 14

#11 Ohio State (-10) @ Illinois (Noon- ESPN): Yes, I know Illinois has a spread offense and used it to upset the Buckeyes in Columbus last year. But that Illini team was an upstart with a relatively unknown QB at the time in Juice Williams who kept the Buckeyes extremely off-balanced. But this game this year comes at a bad, bad time for the Illini. Ohio State has only allowed 13 TDs all year and yes, they've been able to slow down the spread offenses of Troy and Penn State, holding them to 23 points combined. Their offense is getting back on track and looks much better with Terrelle Pryor. Compound that with the Illini defense playing horribly in their 2 games against ranked opponents (52 to Mizzou, 38 to Penn State) and it could be a long afternoon in Champaign. Not to mention, the Buckeyes still have an outside shot at the Big Ten title. No upsets here. Ohio State 27 Illinois 13

#12 Missouri @ Iowa State (+26.5) (630pm- FSN): On paper this looks bad. Real bad. Mizzou has scored 53 TDs this year, while Iowa State has yielded 45. Iowa State's lost 8 straight games overall, while Mizzou has rebounded in winning their last three games. But there is hope in ATS land. Mizzou is a mere 1-4 ATS in their last five games. The one thing though is that you don't know which Iowa State team is going to show up. They almost pulled off the upset in their first ranked game of the season (Kansas, losing 35-33) but then was Oklahoma State's sacrifical lamb in the second one, losing 59-17. Mizzou's offense is scarier than both of those, IMO...but Iowa State does have a chance to cover. Remember, Mizzou's defense is not all that great and last year in a similar situation (Mizzou ranked 13th and Iowa State 1-7), Mizzou only won 42-28 at home. Missouri 52 Iowa State 28

#13 Oklahoma State (-17.5) @ Colorado (8pm- ABC regional/likely the western 2/3rds of the country): Oklahoma State just got ripped apart by Texas Tech last week and their whole team is smarting over that. They regrouped just fine after losing to Texas by destroying Iowa State 59-17. Meanwhile, Colorado is looking to become bowl-eligible and will be facing their 5th ranked opponent this year. They beat West Virginia in OT, but have gotten destroyed by Texas, Missouri and Kansas by a combined 126-28. Last time these two met, Colorado shut out Oklahoma State 34-0. But that was in 2005. This is NOT 2005. There will be some fury unleashed here and by then ABC will have mercifully have switched the regional coverage for you guys to the Boston College-Florida State game. Oklahoma State 41 Colorado 13

#16 North Carolina @ Maryland (+2.5) (330pm- ABC regional/East Coast): Oh geez, ACC time. Here's some food for thought. Maryland is 3-0 straight up/ATS versus ranked opponents this year. North Carolina meanwhile is 2-1 straight up but 1-2 ATS when ranked. The ACC is too wacky for me to make any other kind of statement however except yes, it'll be another close game and yes, you will see an "upset". Maryland 20 North Carolina 17

#17 BYU (-4) @ Air Force (330pm- The Mountain): This is gonna be a good one. Air Force believe it or not is 8-2 and their two losses this year have been by 7 and 6 points respectively to Utah and Navy- 2 very solid football teams. Their offense poses problems for any team's defense to deal with. BYU handled them fairly easily last year in a 31-6 victory...but BYU has really struggled ATS these days, failing to cover 6 straight times. On the flip side of the coin however, Air Force just can't beat ranked opponents. BYU finally will get a cover, but that's because the spread is finally low enough. BYU 27 Air Force 20

Boston College @ #19 Florida State (-7) (8pm- ABC regional/East Coast): ESPN Gameday will be here. It's another schizo ACC tilt. Except this time I may finally have the answer here. FSU is the more talented team on both sides of the ball...and feasibly could be undefeated were it not for that horror show vs. Wake earlier on and that last second turnover at Georgia Tech. Last year in Chestnut Hill, they beat a very overrated BC team that was ranked #2 simply because everyone else kept losing. This year, they shall win again. Florida State 24 Boston College 13

Troy (+19.5) @ #20 LSU (8pm): This is a makeup game from Hurricane Gustav. LSU had a heartbreaking OT loss to Alabama last week, meanwhile Troy took care of Western Kentucky. These 2 teams met last time 4 years ago (coincidentally LSU were defending champs that year as well) and after being eliminated from the title hunt- LSU struggled to put the Trojans away 24-20. There's nothing striking about either team to be honest, they both suck ATS but I think for LSU this is too high for them. LSU 31 Troy 17

#23 Tulsa (-5) @ Houston (8pm): The Tulsa Show has had a week to think about what might have been, after being upset by Arkansas. With their hopes of crashing the BCS party done, they now can refocus on Conference USA and their last real remaining hurdle to the C-USA title game. Houston's offense is good. Tulsa's offense however is psychotic...and if their defense can get a couple of stops on Houston, though it will not be another 56-7 whitewash as it was last year...there's no chance Houston's covering. Tulsa 56 Houston 28

#24 Wake Forest (-4) @ North Carolina State (330pm): Psst. Guess who leads the ACC Atlantic (for now)? Yes, that's Wake Forest. NC State's in last. What does that mean in the ACC though? Absolutely jackshit, hence the low spread. NC State are beasts against the spread, going 6-2 besides having an overall record of 2-6 in those games. Wake sucks ATS though I forget the exact record. The line suggests Wake is gonna win by a field goal. I think it'll be by 2 FGs hah. Wake Forest 20 North Carolina State 14.

Selfishness.

The word selfish tends to have a negative connotation. Only looking out for yourself at the expense of other people, regardless of how close you are to them. In most instances, yeah it sucks...but in some instances, you MUST be selfish because ultimately you're the one person you should care about the most. Unless you're Mother Teresa or one of A Pimp Named Slickback's finest prostitutes; what good is excessively being selfless when you're not getting any enjoyment out of it or getting anywhere in life?

Now don't get me wrong. I take great joy and pride in helping ppl out. I love dishin out advice, giving people rides to places if they don't have an alternative means of getting somewhere and I do it because it's in my nature. Not because I do it to demand respect or to be reimbursed or anything like that. As long as you can appreciate whatever comes to you, respect it, and not abuse the assistance then I can live with that. I first began questioning this however in high school when I first got my license. I was excited about being one of the few juniors to have a car at the time and yeah I had quite a few acquantainces. But when word came out that I had a car, suddenly they felt the need to "become closer" to me. Suddenly these same people who I wouldn't talk to that frequently would always come to me trying to make friendly convo, wanting to hang out, all this shit. Ultimately, it was just so that at the end of the school day, they could get a ride back home. Once they got their respective licenses, I didn't hear much from them again. Not that it mattered much, because I don't ask for reciprocation...but the one day I didn't have my car and asked for a ride (for the fuck of it)...the one dude said "I have no space in my car sorry." Damn.

Sometimes you get so wrapped up into other people's pleasures that you put added pressure upon yourself and look down upon your achievements. I do this very often; I tend to downgrade my accomplishments as no big deal. I don't know if it's a by-product of being humble or simply not being satisfied enough with myself and where I am right now...but I'm sure it's somewhat discerning when for example you view running 4.5 miles as no big deal (when a month ago I wasn't even joggin). Maybe I need to self-evaluate my self-esteem because it's quite low right now...for what reason I don't really know but I seriously don't feel like I've done much to warrant a good feeling about myself, even if others think otherwise. This self-doubt causes me to become more anxious than I should and create a heightened sense of disappointment (as if I failed) when it wasn't that bad. In other words, if I accomplished something, I'll diminish it but if I fucked up I'll take the full blame and let it affect me for a while.

Although my first instincts are usually very good, I spend a lot of time harping on them and in turn it affects my daily routine/performance. I shouldn't worry about what other people are doing because quite frankly, they're doing them and I'm doing me...and to be honest people always separate themselves from the pack. Sometimes you feel like people are avoiding you, when in reality they're simply very busy...but it does make you question if you're really cool with them as they say you are. Other times, you have to go out your way to avoid people because you're in your own zone and you can't afford for them to be a distraction. But, that's when the overactive mind of mind takes shape. While yes, in a perfect world I would be in constant contact with ppl who gave a shit about me and vice-versa...it cannot be that way. You gotta make progress with yourself first, not focus on extracurricular bullshit, and then let it work out on its own.

For the past couple of months I've deliberately gone relatively incognito because I must find out who I am before I find out about others. This is the first time in a while where I can say that I'm being selfish towards my needs because either I'm gonna flourish or I'm gonna flounder. By being selfless at times, you have more to lose than to gain and that's the sad reality. Don't get me wrong, I still go out and I still talk to those select few. But I'm back in my shell, back where I'm most comfortable, being my own 1-man Army. I'm very happy in myself for no longer drinking nearly as much as I used to. I'm content with where I'm at with my internship and my adidas job. I'm content with the friends I have. I need to start giving a shit more about my family. I'm disappointed in a few people but once again I'm probably over-exaggerating. I simply cannot wait for the lameness of 2008 to be over and for a fresh new start in 2009. Hence, the January trip to wherever and then a few other things I have in store.

For those who I've been avoiding, it has nothing to do with you. For those avoiding me, you do what you want. Eventually I have to shit out the bullshitters and then wipe my ass before flushin, wash my hands and continue my journey.

And so on.

The Clutchness of the Gambling Gods.

I've come to terms with respecting them. The more money you put down or the more teams you try to place in a parlay, the more dastardly they become. It never, ever fails. This past weekend I had a successful 4-teamer, but at the same time, a few extremely close calls that were too anguishing. And one bet which truly grinded my gears. Prepare yourselves:

Example 1:
Straight Wager 11/03/08 23:34 ET
bet 130.00 to win 118.18 Result: Wager Lost
ArizonaU 59
WashingtonSt 28 11/08/08(17:00 ET)
ArizonaU -41

One of the safest bets in the nation up until this point was Washington State (arguably the worst team in college football) getting annihilated, to the point where almost anybody could cover against them. They had been outscored in Pac-10 play 350-30 and have one win, against a FCS (D-1AA) team. Their smallest margin of defeat this year is 25. The last 2 games they had lost by a combined 127-0. Not so fast my friend, for one week only, they looked like a football team on offense. Had I only put $30, I guarantee this hits.

Example 2:
Parlay (6 Teams) 11/05/08 21:47 ET
bet 8.27 to win 375.70 Result: Wager Lost
1Clippers(LA) 1stHalf 51
1Lakers(LA) 1stHalf 47
1Lakers(LA) -7.5 (-115)

1Clippers(LA) 1stHalf 51
1Lakers(LA) 1stHalf 47
Over 97

1Grizzlies(Memphis) 1stHalf 41
1Kings(Sacramento) 1stHalf 48
1Kings(Sacramento) -1.5

1Grizzlies(Memphis) 1stHalf 41
1Kings(Sacramento) 1stHalf 48
Under 96.5

1Nuggets(Denver) 1stHalf 59
1Warriors(GoldenState) 1stHalf 58
1Nuggets(Denver) +2 (-115)

1Nuggets(Denver) 1stHalf 59
1Warriors(GoldenState) 1stHalf 58
Over 105.5

Look at the beauty of this. Except that somehow the Clippers, who up to this point had been playing real shitty, actually jumped ahead of the Lakers early in the game. The Lakers made a run but there was no way they were gonna cover. Just to spite me, the Gods have both teams to barely go over with seconds remaining in the half, just so that only one scenario fucked me out of a huge payday. Honestly had I picked the Clippers to cover, the Gods probably would've had the total just go under. Everything else was safe for the most part.

Example 3:
Straight Wager 11/05/08 21:48 ET
bet 50.00 to win 65.00 Result: Wager Lost

Nuggets(Denver) 101
Warriors(GoldenState) 111
Nuggets(Denver) +130

I had won a few games in a row rather easily and rebuilding some confidence. Seeing this matchup, I figured it was gonna be a close game but the Nuggets would win this, even without Chauncey Billups about to join the team. There was a point in the first quarter where I was lookin like a pure genius, as the Nuggets were up 32-15. However, Golden State kept chipping away and eventually pulled away fuck. This was the game Carmelo Anthony wanted to score 44 to honor Barack Obama being the 44th president of the US. He scored 28 so I guess he was honoring Woodrow Wilson.

Example 4:
Parlay (4 Teams) 11/06/08 11:21 ET
bet 8.96 to win 89.60 Result: Wager Lost
Maryland 13
VirginiaTech 23
VirginiaTech -3

Maryland 13
VirginiaTech 23
Under 41.5

TCU 10
Utah 13
TCU -1.5

TCU 10
Utah 13
Under 42.5

I'm still fuming over this right now. There was never a question about the Maryland-VA Tech game overall, and the TCU-Utah game it looked like no one was interested in scoring so my under was safe. TCU was up 10-6 seemingly forever and in firm control of the game. However, the fourth quarter hits, and the Gambling Gods I guess panicked. TCU's kicker clanks not one but TWO field goals off the uprights...including one with 2:30 left in the game which would have put TCU up 7. Then on Utah's final drive, TCU commits a pass interference penalty on 4th down, keeping Utah's drive alive where they eventually score with about 30 seconds left. You got to be kidding me.

But then, out of the blue, the Gods seeing my anguish do me one favor:

Parlay (4 Teams) 11/06/08 23:41 ET
bet 7.00 to win 70.00 (paid 77.0) Result: Wager Won
Grizzlies(Memphis) 109
Warriors(GoldenState) 104
Over 194.5

Mavericks(Dallas) 105
Nuggets(Denver) 108
Over 203

Pistons(Detroit) 96
Nets(NewJersey) 103
Over 190.5

Raptors(Toronto) 92
Hawks(Atlanta) 110
Over 182.5

There were some doubts early on in a couple of those games, but the scoring was in earnest in the 2nd half of just about all of them.

With the Gods now witnessing my excitement of this, they break me down once again with a devastating loss:

Parlay (4 Teams) 11/08/08 03:41 ET
bet 22.00 to win 220.00 Result: Wager Lost
Army 31
Rice 38
Rice -9.5

BowlingGreen 28
Ohio 3
BowlingGreen -3

IowaSt 24
Colorado 28
Over 47.5

Kansas 35
Nebraska 45
Over 61.5

The Bowling Green game was never in doubt, and the two Big 12 games, although they both started off real slow, once again the scoring kicked in earnest in the 2nd halves of both those games. I even got some help in the Iowa State-Colorado game because Colorado scored with about 2 minutes left. With the Gods now noticing Rice was on their way to running away with an easy victory (38-17 heading into the 4th quarter and Rice threatening to score yet again), they get to work:
1) Rice completes a 13 yard pass down to Army's 30 but the WR fumbles and Army gets the ball.
2) Army promptly scores.
3) Rice punts.
4) Army goes on an 89 yard annoying as fuck drive, in which they go 4-4 on 3rd down conversions (literally if they needed 4 yards they'd get 5 or 6) and then break off a 43 yard TD run.
5) Rice gets the ball back but they get stuffed on a 4th and 1 on the Army 31, rather than go for a FG. Their kicker must suck.
6) Rice's defense FINALLY stops Army but it's too late then.

The pain continues even more though:

Parlay (7 Teams) 11/08/08 21:21 ET
bet 5.00 to win 375.00 Result: Wager Lost
Bills(Buffalo) 10
Patriots(NewEngland) 20
Under 41.5

Jaguars(Jacksonville) 38
Lions(Detroit) 14
Under 43.5

Packers(GreenBay) 27
Vikings(Minnesota) 28
Under 44.5

Panthers(Carolina) 17
Raiders(Oakland) 6
Under 37.5

Rams(StLouis) 3
Jets(NewYork) 47
Over 44

Saints(NewOrleans) 20
Falcons(Atlanta) 34
Over 50

Titans(Tennessee) 21
Bears(Chicago) 14
Under 38.5

I hit 5 out of 7. If Detroit wasn't so shitty against the run/not so shitty in the 2nd quarter, I might have had a chance with that under...meanwhile, Minnesota's defense was amazing, yet because the Packers scored 2 non-offensive TDs, that makes the difference in that one. Just to add insult to injury, the Saints-Falcons make me correct with their game on the very last play of the game (Drew Brees TD pass).

And the grand finale:
Parlay (6 Teams) 11/09/08 16:09 ET
bet 5.00 to win 200.00 Result: Wager Lost
1Grizzlies(Memphis) 1stHalf 54
1Nuggets(Denver) 1stHalf 53
Over 97.5

1Hawks(Atlanta) 1stHalf 38
1Thunder(OklahomaCity) 1stHalf 41
1Hawks(Atlanta) -2.5

1Hawks(Atlanta) 1stHalf 38
1Thunder(OklahomaCity) 1stHalf 41
Under 92

1Rockets(Houston) 1stHalf 48
1Lakers(LA) 1stHalf 50
Under 97

1Warriors(GoldenState) 1stHalf 57
1Kings(Sacramento) 1stHalf 63
1Kings(Sacramento) -1.5

1Warriors(GoldenState) 1stHalf 57
1Kings(Sacramento) 1stHalf 63
Over 108

Honestly, this was probably my least devastating loss out of all of these. But two things I want to point out. First, the Hawks were seemingly up the entire first half but the Thunder must have went on a late run, so that was disappointing. I would have been infuriated however had the Hawks covered and I witnessed the Rockets-Lakers barely go over. That's why whoever makes up these spreads and totals are pure fuckin geniuses, because for the longest time it looked like there was no way the Rockets-Lakers were going over for the first half.

Grand total of money I barely missed out of this weekend: $1,433.48

Good Lord.

And so on.

My January Trip.

I figure I need a break from NYC. God bless this place, but every now and then you gotta get away from it all and explore your options elsewhere as a temporary fix. It's almost as if you gotta go get drunk or some shit hah. Though I've changed quite a bit with my life at the moment, I feel like I'm goin through the same monotone bullshit. Thinkin about where to go, I basically had two places in mind and then a few wild cards. In my own version of Indecision '08 here are your candidates:

Montreal (Barack Obama aka the favorite): This may become a no-brainer if I can get a few of my boys to come through. I used to go here as a child because I had family over there and it's hella nice and clean. Now that I'm older obviously, I can take advantage of the drinking and gambling hah. As well as the nightlife. Plus, apparently Canadian girls are the shit...and I don't doubt this because I have experienced this myself. Granted it's gonna be cold as hell but so will my #2 candidate in this. Montreal from what it sounds like is a live place to be, even if half the shit I won't understand because it's French hah. Not to mention, I can drive or take the bus there and it won't be that expensive for a nice getaway.

Chicago (John McCain aka the underdog): If you asked me this question a couple of months ago, there would have been no doubt I'd be going here. Some sense of doubts later and here I stand. While yes, one of my better girl friends lives around this area...I always question my stance with her because now she's in a relationship...and even though we feel like we need to meet and would be perfect for each other, I have my doubts. It's a high-risk, moderate-to-high reward and it may or may not be the perfect time for me to fuck with it in that aspect. On the other hand, I do have another friend that lives out there and I could visit her for that weekend. If Montreal falls apart, then Chicago it will be. It's a tough uphill climb for the Chi right now but it can easily win too.

Long Shots-

Virginia: Haven't really given it much thought, can be a sleeper pick (to go visit a girl friend of mine) but what can I possibly do out there aside from that hah?

Arizona: They got some bangin chicks over there at the universities and I do know somewhat some ppl that live out there...but yes another far-fetched idea.

Toronto: A place I really do want to visit and fuck with...but that's likely not gonna happen until Caribana.

Michigan/Ohio: see Virginia

New Orleans: True, but I've been down there before. Obviously it'd be fun to go down for Mardi Gras but I'd want something new.

Denver: An underrated city, looks dope (or at least the Real World that season made it out to be) but I just don't know.

Texas: Probably the most far-fetched of them all. First, where in Texas (it'd probably be West Texas to visit my homegirl) and secondly, with the viciousness of ppl down there right now post-election, this might be a volatile time to go.

That's all for now. I'm sure I'll make my decision by the end of the month.

And so on.