BOOMER!

On a much lighter note...can I just give a "Hell Yeah!" to my Sooners???????

I took my friend and coworker, Karlie, to the OU/Texas Tech game on Saturday in Norman. We met Mom and Dad for lunch and it was so good to see them. The game was awesome and as Karlie said when we left, "OU schooled Tech." For sure!!

It was a beautiful day and I was absolutely ecstatic to be there, supporting my team. And they were OUTSTANDING! Final score??? 45-7.

One of the best days I've had in a long time...

Ooooooooooooooo....U!

And yes, Karlie is wearing her Cornell sweatshirt...I allowed it because it was cold and she is my friend. :)

College Girl Goes Pro

I was invited to watch the Dallas Cowboys game today in a company suite. I'm not much of a pro football fan...actually, I'm not a fan at all. BUT any live sports event is worth attending. And football in general just makes me happy.

It was my first time in the new stadium. One word to describe it? AWESOME. The suite was very cool with tons of food, drinks, comfy chairs, and a great view. The Jumbotron?? Everything it is cracked up to be AND THEN SOME. That behemoth alone is worth going to a game! It was a gorgeous day and I was in a fabulous mood.

College football is my passion...but this girl couldn't help but root for Da Boys! We lost (again) but what an amazing day!! I may have to tune in and watch those Cowboys next week. :)

I'm home now waiting for the Rangers game to start. GO TEXAS!!


Pictures from the game:

Heading into the stadium...

Very happy camper goofing off in the suite bathroom (fancier than mine at home!)

We got there pretty early and just enjoyed the food and the view...

JUMB-O-TRON, baby!!

Salad, veggies, shrimpies, sushi (and an adorable football-shaped wasabi!)

Beef tenderloin, macaroni and cheese with truffle oil, teriyaki chicken

The Goof, again...after 4 beers. :)

 

Oh, and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

The last few weeks in pictures (i.e. a "wordless" post)

A holiday weekend, football, The Crud, and Texas tornadoes

I am back to the land of the living. But let's start at the beginning...my last post was 9/3. Here are some highlights since then...

Labor Day weekend: I thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful holiday weekend with family in Oklahoma, complete with excellent food, wine, beer, football, pooltime, and a painful sunburn. The drive up there was hellish as the entire world seemed to be on the highway. And no one seemed to want to go faster than 60 mph. What normally takes 2.5-3 hours took FOUR hours. Lucky for me, Mom had a home-cooked meal just waiting for me when I pulled up. It was awesome!! Mom and I did some shopping on Saturday before the football games and it was a blast. She is really getting into crafts and sewing and is making me a quilt and all kinds of neat stuff (more on that later). We went to a fabric store and I had no idea it could be so much fun! So many fabulous fabrics, so little time, and so little talent with which to utilize them...(that would be me, not Mom).

Football: My Sooners looked shakey during their first game, allowing too many penalties and barely scraping by for a win. This had me VERY nervous all week for last Saturday's game against FSU. OU's season opener-performance was less than stellar and FSU was obviously expecting a win. Thankfully, the Sooners pulled out a can of whoop-ass and laid it down...the smack down that is. Final score? 47-17. Wahoo!!!! We've moved up a few notches in the rankings and are a team to be reckoned with this season, baby! This Saturday we're up against Air Force which should be an easy win. I will be flying back to Oklahoma to go to an Oklahoma State game with an old coworker, Jane. It's the one time of year I turn into a Cowboy fan! :)

The Crud: Aptly named for how it makes me feel. It seems I come down with this ailment at least 2-3 times a year, usually when I travel, and almost always in September. The Crud consists of a sore throat, ear infection, sinus infection, fever, aches, chills, coughing, drowsiness, grouchiness, and basically me feeling sorry for myself and missing my Mommy and Daddy. God forbid I have to take care of myself, right??!! :)

I started feeling bad on Sunday before the drive back to Dallas from OKC. By Monday (an office holiday thankfully) I was miserable. Thinking it was just a sinus infection that would go away, I prepared to go into the office Tuesday. No dice. Tuesday was probably the worst, with a fever that just made me feel rotten. My whole body hurt, and the sunburn from the weekend was making me even more miserable. [It was a BAD sunburn because I fell asleep outside and then proceeded to wake up and chat with Mom while in the sun. At one point Dad was like, "Little Girl, you really need to get out of the sun because your back is getting red." Cut to my face, arms, shoulders, back, and legs being burned and almost purple. The ONE time I forget sunscreen, people!!] Okay, back to being sick...I was so cold from the fever/chills and tried to take a warm shower, but the hot water was literally stinging the sunburn. Poor, pathetic little me. Wednesday morning I get up and head to work, determined to show the boss my dedication. I don't even sound like myself, and my cough is causing heads to turn it's so full of the crud. Colleagues are shielding themselves from me, telling me to go home. The boss himself says I should go to a doctor. "But I don't have one yet since I moved here..." to which he responds, "There is a clinic near here and you need to go." (Note: Dear Mother had already urged me numerous times to go to the clinic but I didn't listen to her...big mistake). Turns out the clinic is right across from where I live, AND you can make an appointment online, AND they call you when it's time to come in. I leave work and head to the clinic during a virtual downpour. Sure, we needed rain, but 5-8 inches in one day was overkill. I was soaked by the time I got there. So it turns out I have an upper respiratory infection that could be viral or bacterial ("50/50 chance" the doctor tells me, which was of absolutey no help at all). I pay my $50 (yes, even with insurance it was $50--damn emergency clinics), take my Rx for antibiotics and head to Walgreen's when all I really want to do is shower and go to bed. I get further soaked running into the store and have to wait 10 minutes for it to be filled. So I did what any young, sick, single person does and stocked up on Ramen (at $0.39 a pop), as well as juice, cough syrup, and a decongestant. Thursday I get up and head into work again, only to practically fall asleep at my desk and continually wipe my sore, runny nose. I make it through an early afternoon meeting, coughing into my  kleenex, trying to avert the paranoid glares of coworkers, and then head back home. I finally worked a full day on Friday and started to feel back to normal. I continued to hack and cough all weekend, barely getting any of the long list of chores done. I did however get my sense of taste and smell back somewhat. I think The Crud is finally going away. I had to cancel all 3 personal training sessions last week and Mike even called to make sure I was doing okay. This week's sessions will be tough for sure.

Texas tornadoes: When I moved here from Oklahoma, I figured I was leaving most of the bad weather behind me. But not only did we receive buku amounts of rain last week (up to 10 inches in some areas), apparently 3 tornadoes touched down. One of those was too close to my neck of the woods.

To say the very least, it was a strange week indeed. But it's Monday, time to start fresh and hit the ground running!!

I ♥ 3-day weekends

I'm headed up to the Okie State this afternoon...can't wait to see the family!! This will be my first trip back since I moved to Dallas a month ago.

Things are going...fantastic, actually! Work has been nuts with more meetings and seminars then I've ever had but I love the people and the atmosphere. I've been running and working out with Mike (I had a 5:30 AM appointment this morning and as of 9:00 AM I cannot lift my arms above my head). The weather has finally cooled off a bit and we've gotten some much-needed rain. I filled out my application for graduation and will receive my diploma on December 18!! Life is good...and I can't help but find myself glancing around for that Mack truck to come careening around the corner... :)

On another note:

♪  "It's the most wonderful time of the year..."  ♫

The college football season officially kicked off last night--finally! I'm sporting a new OU shirt today at the office with pride and have already talked smack with some Aggie and Cowboy colleagues. I can't wait to watch the games tomorrow with some of my favorite peeps!!

For now I'm just waiting for the big boss to blow the horn early and let us outta here...

Have a safe and fun holiday weekend!

Can you smell what the BCS is cooking?!

Fall is the best time of year. Not only does the weather get better, but there are lots of great holidays (my birthday included)...and FOOTBALL!

The 2010 college football season begins this Thursday and I can't wait! I'm driving up to Oklahoma on Friday and will watch the weekend games at Mom and Dad's house.

A few thoughts for this season:

1. OU. Sam Bradford is long gone and will be missed. But Landry Jones had an outstanding rookie season after stepping in for an injured Sam last year. Let's hope Jones will help lead the Sooners to victory. Player to watch: Ryan Broyles. Set a record last year with 1120 receiving yards.

2. Texas. Colt McCoy is also long gone...and won't be missed by this gal. :) I'm not sure what to think of the new Texas QB. Gilbert needs to boost the running game if Texas wants a shot. What to watch: Mack Brown will play Gilbert under center; strong offensive line.

3. Alabama. Ranked #1 (preseason) after a 14-0 season last year and a championship. Strong team, stout defensive line. But they have a tough schedule this year. Game to watch: Alabama v. Florida on 10/2.

4. Speaking of Florida...thank GOD Tebow is out of the picture. We'll see how the Gators do this season without him. Brantley might put up some good numbers.

5. Nebraska?! Actually breaking the preseason top 10?!

6. Ohio State. Playing 2 quarterbacks for their first game. Given the team's last few seasons and the talented roster his season, I predict the Buckeyes may be the team to beat.

7. Texas A&M. If the Aggies can just keep the other team from scoring, I think they have a shot at making their presence known in the top 10. Player to watch: Jerrod Johnson.

8. USC. New president, new athletic director, and a two-year bowl ban. Even if they are good this year, they can't go to the Rose Bowl. (tee-hee)

9. LSU. Critical season for coach Les Miles. The last two seasons have been crappy, especially following a 2007 national championship.

10. Heisman prediction: Terrell Pryor, Ohio State

All's quiet on the Sooner front

Have you noticed my lack of OU football posts this year?

Have you seen any games and/or our stats?

Have you heard about Bradford's decision?

Well, I have...and it stinks. It's been a rough season to say the least. Once Sam hurt his shoulder in the BYU game things really started to go downhill. We just weren't able to rise up and, therefore, we tanked in the rankings. I do understand and fully support Bradford's decision to bow out gracefully...but it's still a sad situation. He could have gone out with a bang after securing his Heisman win and finishing a great 2008 season. But he stuck around like a true Sooner...unfortunately things just didn't work out.

As of Week 7, Oklahoma no longer had a spot in the top 25 BCS ranks. I can't even remember the last time that happened (or maybe I do remember but I don't want to reminisce). The season isn't over yet. As I have said before, I am no fair-weather fan. This is just the college football circle of life. We will rise again!

O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A
Our chant rolls on and on!
Thousands strong
Join heart and song
In alma mater's praise
Of campus beautiful by day and night
Of colors proudly gleaming Red and White
'Neath a western sky OU's chant will never die.
Live on University!

College football lives here

I think I'm finally level-headed enough to discuss the college football kickoff weekend. Yes, my Sooners suffered a loss and did NOT do well on the field. It's bad enough that Gresham was out with an injury (more on that later) but our offensive line is new and for lack of a better word, very virginal. They did not protect the QB, run the ball, or complete the passes. Not only that, but what is up with all the penalties!!?? Worst of all, Sam Bradford was injured after being sacked when he fell on his shoulder. He was out for the game and now may be out for up to 4 weeks. According to the news this morning, Gresham is now out for the season. To top all of this off, OU is now ranked #13.

*deep breath*

On a lighter note, the Cowboys played an awesome game and their BCS ranking is the highest ever in the school's history. Also, the Aggies won their game so I am happy for my brother, sis-in-law and my nephew, Brandon.

Back to the Sooners...Landry Jones may have what it takes to grow into a great QB. And lucky for him we have a few games coming up against not-so-tough opponents. BUT it's not in the bag. Tulsa (9/19) may put up a good fight. And if Sam isn't back by Miami (10/3) then we may be in trouble. Did you see them against Florida State on Monday night?!? But I'd rather lose a game to Miami if it means Sam can rest up and be ready for the Texas game (10/17).

In closing, I am still looking forward to the season. I'm am behind the Sooners 100% past, present and future.

I'm a Sooner born and Sooner bred and when I die I'll be Sooner dead!

One month to kickoff...

Let the countdown commence...Saturday, September 5, 2009
Cowboys Stadium
One Legends Way
Arlington, Texas 76011
6:00 PM

Woot!

Only 25 days until I get my OU season tickets...

Only 44 days until kickoff in Dallas...

BOOMER SOONER!!

A complete 180

There are only 180 days until OU Football season kicks off...(sigh)

Who Da Man?

That's right...he did it. And boy does he ever deserve it. Sam Bradford is only the second sophomore to ever win the Heisman. And I couldn't be more proud. See ya in Miami, Sam!

This post has no title.

Texas has the #1 ranking this week. Yuck. I'm not going to pretend that they aren't playing some good football, but I don't have to like it. Our Sooners are still in the top 5 and that shows stamina and consistency. There is still hope for a National Championship...

That's all I'm going to say on this Monday morning.

Later,

Red River Rivalry 2008

The beer is cold, the snacks are stocked and I am ready...ARE YOU READY???

There is a buzz in the air and it can only mean one thing: the Sooners are going to head-to-head with Texas. Oh, yes, it's that time again...the battle of OU/Texas in the Cotton Bowl. As Big Tex overlooks the fairgrounds, our Sooners will be fighting for bragging rights this season. This game encompasses much tradition for both Okies and Texans. The series began in 1900 but has been played in Dallas since 1912. I attended this matchup a few times in my youth, though I was more concerned with the fair and cotton candy back then.

This is an important game and a turning point in the season. Both teams are in the top 5 (OU #1 of course) and both have been playing very well. I am nervous but excited. Unfortunately I have an exam first thing Saturday morning (yes, a Saturday exam on campus) so I will be preoccupied tonight with studying. But I will be poised in front of Dad's flat screen TV and ready by game time. College Gameday will set the stage in Dallas so tune in!!

Come on Sooners...beat those Horns!!

Born & Bred,

This is Sooner Nation.

Bradford threw for 411 yards last Saturday against TCU...the third straight game he has set a career-high in passing yards. So OU is on top just 5 weeks into the season. I just hope they can remain in the top 3. This season is already up and down, and I have a feeling the rest of the season will have it's own twists and turns.

At least USC lost a game...YIPPEE!!!

Teams I'll have my eye on this weekend: Ohio State, Georgia, Florida, and yes, USC. Doh!

Boomer Sooner,

Gameday Cajun Chicken Nachos

Paired with a sweet ale, these babies make for the perfect gameday meal!

1 boneless, skinless chicken breast

cajun seasoning (I cheated and bought cajun-seasoned chicken)

2-3 T chopped jalapenos

1 c colby cheese (sharp cheddar or monterey jack would be even better)

diced fresh tomatoes

sour cream

good tortilla chips, cantina style

Cook chicken according to preference (grill, bake, etc). Let the chicken cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces. Top chips with cheese, chicken and jalapenos, microwave or broil until cheese melts. Add tomatoes, sour cream and/or any additional toppings. Yummy!

They taste even better when OU wins...

'Tis the Season.

It's finally here.

College football season has officially started and Saturdays are once again the highlight of my week. I will be prepared with beer in hand, sporting an OU t-shirt and ready for the hype. Ok, so OU is not playing on TV for this first game, but that isn't going to stop me from perusing this year's competition. Here is my tentative Saturday Football schedule:

09:59 AM - Wake up

10:00 AM - LSU game (rescheduled due to Gustav)

11:30 AM - Georgia game via internet (should they be #1??)

14:30 PM - USC at Virginia

18:00 PM - Oklahoma game via internet

19:00 PM - Michigan State at California

20:30 PM - Illinois at Mizzou

In addition to the games I would like to watch, I am certain my dad will be flipping through an assortment of games in HD. And we are cooking up a mess-a-somethin' for snacking all day!

Have a safe & happy holiday weekend!!

Saturday Night Lights

I'm very excited. There are only 15 more days until kick-off for OU Football. According to the USA Today Pre-season poll, OU is ranked #4 -- our 2007 pre-season ranking was #8 so we're off to a good start (Texas comes in at #10, tee-hee). Our dream team this year will be lead once again by Sam Bradford. As a freshman, Bradford led the nation in passing efficiency last year...as a FRESHMAN. With 36 TD passes and only 8 interceptions, I think he had an awesome year. Now a sophmore, I think Bradford really has what it takes to stay focused and lead our Sooners through a grand season. I don't like that critics are waiting for Bradford to 'prove' himself this year...it's like they assume he will fail. Come on, people! Stoops is no dummy...he's coached the Sooners in 5 of 6 Big 12 Championship wins. But it's never enough. Oklahoma faces harsh criticism every year, but I am not a fair-weather fan. I come from a long line of OU fans. And I am proud to be Sooner born and bred. August 30th can't get here fast enough. Sam, if you and the team are listening, I'm here for you. I'll be there every step of the way.

Boomer Sooner,