I'm baaaaaaack.

Wow, I haven't posted in almost a month. Mostly cuz I didn't wanna. And mostly cuz I've been too tired. I mean, for reals people! My job is killing me. Or just wearing me out. Whatevs.

Soooooooooooo, what's been going on? The Cubs made their first off-season signing yesterday by signing David DeJesus to a 2 year deal. He's apparently gonna be their starting right fielder. Having never heard of him before, Robin and I of course, did some very important research on him (ie-checked to see if he was hot or not). Good news ladies, he is a delicious piece of eye candy and has Carlos Pena-worthy dimples. Jury is still out on whether or not he has Carlos Pena's ass, however. From what I'm reading, it's a pretty good signing. I don't really know. I just know I have full blind faith in the Theo Trio.

So, Thanksgiving was last week. Gobble, gobble. Hope everyone had a delightful holiday. I was on vacation all last week as is my yearly tradition, so of course, every day was delightful to me. I started the week running fun errands like going to the oral surgeon for a follow up appointment (yes, three weeks ago I had to have emergency dental surgery. It was not a good day. I did enjoy the Vicodin, however.). On Wednesday, my parents arrived in town and the fine family fun began. I got to spend a lot of QT with the fam including my favorite kiddos, my niece and nephew. Rylan is now 3 months old and just as cute as can be! And.....he rolled over for the first time! He scared himself when he did it, but our boy is officially a roller! He is a very smiley, happy little guy. If his smile doesn't melt your heart, then you have no soul. Kendall is a very active and, um, precocious 2 and a half year old. She is so funny and constantly entertains us all. I particularly enjoy it when she stands on the fireplace, Dora microphone in hand, and yells "are you ready to rock and roll?". I mean, what 2 year old says that???? Another fun Kendall-ism: this past Sunday was Rylan's baptism. My brother and I have the honor of getting to be Ry's godparents, so we were standing in front of the entire church along w/K, and my sis and bro-in-law during the actual baptism. After the pastor did the whole water bit, K says "way to go Ry!". It was hilarious. All week we kept asking her what was going to happen on Sunday and she'd say "they put water on his head".

Tomorrow night, Aunt Kerri is watching both kids by myself for the first time. Should be interesting. I think I can handle it. I love being around those kiddos SO much.

Today we can officially say that Cubs Con is NEXT MONTH! OMG, I am so freakishly excited, I can't hardly stand it!  Forget Christmas excitment, bring on meeting my Cubbies!

Let's catch up, shall we?

It's been a crazy last few days around here.

I don't know if you heard, but the St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series last Friday night. Although I'm a Cubs fan for life, I wanted to be a part of the hoopla (I mean, after all, it is still BASEBALL. The sport I love.), so me and some of my peeps headed down to Mike Shannon's (located right across the street from Busch Stadium) to watch the game. I even wore red! The place was packed, of course, and buzzing with excitement...which only grew as they hit the 7th and 8th innings, when it became clear the Cards were gonna win. Once the 9th inning came around, I braced myself for what was about to happen. As that final out was made, I tried desperately to take pics of the players celebrating on the TV, but I was quickly swarmed by cheering people, many my friends. There was beer being thrown from every direction (I smelled like a brewery by the end of the night). My body took a beating as we (along with pretty much everyone else there) tried to leave the bar and go TO the stadium. I was slammed into the wall on numerous occasions, but managed to make it outside alive. We never made it inside the stadium (my brother did, however), but got close enough to get pics of the fireworks and the stadium still full of celebrating fans (if you are on Facebook, check out my pics). Afterward, as we headed to our car, I videoed the streets of St. Louis-cars jammed, people honking, yelling, cheering, high fiving strangers. It was quite a thing to be a part of. Yes, it wasn't my team, but it was my hometown team, and pretty easy to get caught up in. My dad said today that the 2011 Cards were the first team he's ever seen that couldn't hit, couldn't pitch, couldn't run and couldn't field yet still won the World Series. He then said "heck, with a team like that, even your Cubs have a chance". Nice dig dad. Nice dig.

Sunday was the World Series parade downtown. I've never seen a World Series parade before and nothing was going to stop me from being there. Besides, seeing Skip Schumaker in person? Hells yes. The parade and that day in general were my favorite part of the weekend-not only were several of my friends/family there with me, but so were my brother, my sister, my brother-in-law and my sweet niece and nephew. The first World Series I remember was the 1982 one in which the Cards beat the Brewers. I was 6. Kendall and Rylan won't remember their first one, but we will certainly have the pics to show them and the stories to tell them! Kendall was excited to see "Fredbird and the rally squirrel". She was also excitedly catching confetti while perched on her daddy's shoulders. The parade itself was super fun. I got pics of most of the players (again, located on Facebook) and nearly passed out when Skip and his family went by. Seriously, it's ridiculous to be that hot. My friend Robin and I also discovered just how hot Matt Holliday is, even though we both tried to deny it.

Monday was Halloween and I was honored (truly) when my sister said I could come over to see the kids in their costumes. Kendall, at age two and a half, has been totally in to Halloween this year. For two months she's been anxiously awaiting being able to wear her Tinkerbell costume and for Rylan to wear his pirate costume (seriously, two of the cutest things I think I've ever seen). When the big day arrived, my sister and I helped Tink get dressed (K pronounces it "Tinterbell") and make her grand entrance down the stairs (complete with a ponytail and a wand, of course). She was adorable, not gonna lie. Rylan wasn't a huge fan of his costume, but he looked so freakin cute in it. Sorry, no pics on here, I shared them with family only. I was also able to with my sis and Jon to take K trick-or-treating. SUCH FUN. She fearlessly rang the doorbell at each house and quickly caught on to this whole candy thing. We had to remind her what to say ("tricher-treat", "thank you" and, my favorite, "Happy Hadoween"), but overall, she did a great job. And walked the entire time, only getting whiney towards the end. Such a big girl!

Yesterday, my sister and I took the kids to the zoo (I've been off work all week, killing PTO before the end of the year). It was an absolutely beautiful day. It was Ry's first trip to the zoo (thank you sis, for letting me be a part of that). K was super excited, she told me she wanted to see a baby jaguar (like on Diego) and ride the train. We didn't see a baby jaguar, but we did see a leopard, so that was close enough. We rode the train around the entire zoo, K LOVED the tunnels! We got to see the baby elephant (SO cute!). K loved the hippos (especially when they swam in the water) and decided she wanted to see the gorillas (funny, since last time she went to the zoo she said they were scary). Aunt Kerri took her on the carousel (proof that I love her because I get motion sick VERY easily) where she decided she wanted to ride on the zebra. While on the carousel, she informed me that when he was bigger, Rylan would be riding on the giraffe. She then decided she wanted to go see the real giraffes and zebras (we did). Rylan pretty much chilled the whole time, which is what 11 week olds do. It was SO fun to see the zoo through K's eyes. She just loved everything and was so happy to be there. Although, as we sat down for some ice cream, she says to me "I want to go to the park now, Kerri". Uhm.......the kiddo has boundless energy! That is, until we put her in the car. She was asleep within minutes. :)

Those kids put such a smile on my face, no matter what else is going on. They're pretty awesome.

In other news, the Cubs fired Mike Quade (not a surprise) and the Theo Trio (as Theo, Jed and Jason are now known as) are working hard to convince us they know how to end this 103 year World Series drought. Thus far, I'm buying whatever Theo is selling. He makes me believe. Delusional? Perhaps? Devoted? Definitely. Excited for the future of the Cubs? Most definitely.

I return to work tomorrow (yes, I have to go in for one measly day) but at least it's Friday. Bring on the weekend! Prolly not the right attitude to have when you've just come off a vacation, but, whatevs.

Welcome to the Cubs, Mr. President!

The Cubs front office just got hotter......

Let me tell you a story about a man named Jed....and one named Theo, too.

Ladies, feast your eyes on the Cubs new management. Upgrade over Hendry and crew? Hells yes.

Why hello there, Mr. President.......

contemplative Mr. President

Hey, our new GM ain't ugly either!

scruffy Jed. Yes, please.

Jed Hoyer, rumored new Cubs GM, is the cutie pie in the middle. I don't know who those other dudes are. Nor do I care.

Sure, it won't be officially official until they announce it tomorrow, but, I'm gonna go ahead and get excited anyway. Theo Epstein (of helped-end-the-Red Sox-86-year-World Series-drought fame) will be announced as the Cubs new President of Baseball Operations. And hopefully sitting right beside him will be his BFF and current Padres GM, Jed Hoyer. The band is back together. Can these two work miracles and finally bring a World Series win to the northside after 103 years? It's the ultimate sports challenge. Here's hoping they're both up for it.

World Series 2011

The World Series starts tonight. The St. Louis Cardinals vs the Texas Rangers. I'm excited. Are you?

I am torn, however. The Rangers are my favorite AL team, mostly because Josh Hamilton is my favorite baseball player. That said, I feel like I should root for my hometown team....and wish for a 7 game series so that I can maximize my Skip Schumaker sightings. Sigh.

However, my gut tells me that it's the Rangers year. They've been building toward this the last couple of years and I just think perhaps the stars have aligned for them this year. Cards fans will tell you differently, as they believe "11 in 11" is their destiny-you know, their 11th World Series title in 2011. Um.....ok. Maybe it is, who knows.

I think either way, I'll be fine with it. I just want to watch some good baseball (and watch hot players-see my previous post). I can't believe the end of the baseball season is almost here. I guess once the WS ends, I can concentrate fully on Theo Watch 2011.

Need a reason to watch the World Series?

I've got a few reasons for you in the form of hot mens. There's something for everyone! Enjoy. I know I will.

Tonight's starting pitcher for the Rangers, CJ Wilson. I do solemnly swear to lust after you the entire series.

Michael Young-yes please

Josh Hamilton-tats and all.

Elvis Andrus. Because a man named Elvis is always hot, right?

Ever since his shirt came off, I've been a bit obsessed with tonight's starter for the Cards, Chris Carpenter.

Oh Skip. I've loved you for years.

Shirtless Matt Holliday, anyone?

Hey, Albert ain't ugly either.

Catching up with K

I feel like blogging about my niece today, and catching y'all up on what she's doing nowadays.

K is now two and a half (quite the big girl!) and is an amazing and hilarious little kid. Kids should stay this age forever, they're so much fun!  You can understand most of what she says now and have an actual conversation with her.

She's really into Cinderella and Belle from Beauty and the Beast. She loves this show on Nick Jr called "Bubble Guppies". She recently started watching Dancing With The Stars (she loves anything that has to do with singing, dancing or performing). When we watch baseball, she yells "Go Tarnos!", which is Kendall-ese for "Go Cardinals". She can say "Albert Pujols" as clear as day. Last night I told her I was going to be a witch for Halloween. She said "no, you Captain Hook, Kerri". She then yelled down to her daddy and Uncle Tim "you pirates guys". :)

She loves her baby brother and informed me that he wants baby toys for Christmas. She, on the other hand, wants "Cinerella and a horse". I asked her if Santa was going to bring those things and she said "no, mama get at the store". Kid is smart. 

She's very much into pretend play right now. She's obsessed with school buses and wants to be a big kid so she can ride one. Last night she lined up her bath toys and told them all to "wait your turn guys". 

She helped her mama make dinner last night and informed me "I eat mushrooms Kerri" (she likes to add your name to the end of every sentence). When her mama picks her up from school and the other kids swarm around baby Rylan, K says "dat my brudder guys". :) 

K has also been asking about her Aunt Alyssa a lot lately. I love talking to her about Alyssa, but it breaks my heart to have to try to explain to a 2 year old why her only other aunt isn't here anymore. Last night K told me Alyssa was at her house. I asked her where that was, and she said "up behind the trees". Seems as good an explanation as any. When Alyssa died, I made a promise to her that I would make sure K (and any subsequent nieces or nephews) always knew about her other aunt who loved her very much. And I plan to keep that promise.

K is turning out to be a funny, smart, and absolutely beautiful child. Mama and daddy are doing a great job so far. She's a good big sister (although she does not like her grandmas or auntie holding Rylan-a bit jealous). She's a sweet little girl. Biggest challenge now is getting her potty trained......and figuring out a way to make her stop growing up so fast.

My love for Skip Schumaker

My love for Skip Schumaker of the Cardinals has been well documented. I've been crushing on him for years. What I didn't know until recently, however, is how damn SEXY he is. Now hear me out. I've always thought he was super adorable with that shiny bald head of his, but not really "hot". Like, Carlos Pena is hot, Skip is adorable. There's a difference. And then....I (with the help of my BFF R Diddy) discovered these pics:

Why Skip, I love your giant hammer......

if this is what infield practice entails, count me in

My absolute fave. Who knew he had tats? Who knew he had those guns? And what about the belly peek? I think I just died looking at this pic. Holy sweet baby haysus. Hot.

This is almost enough to make me be a Cardinals fan.........

What an amazing night of baseball!

No, my team was not involved in last night's fun....mostly cuz their season ended before it began. Nevertheless, no matter what team you root for, last night was an amazing night for Major League Baseball. Wow! The Red Sox and Braves were fighting for their playoff lives, the Cards and Rays were hoping to capitalize on the Sox and Braves epic collapses....and it turns out, things went the way of two of those teams....

The Red Sox epic collapse down the stretch will go down in history as one of the worst in all of MLB. Nine games up at the beginning of this month, they somehow managed to let that slip away, making Game 162 the biggest game of the season. Their game with the Orioles was rain delayed nearly two hours....so, they got to see the Yankees/Rays game, I'm sure. Rays were down SEVEN TO NOTHING in the 8th. Hope was nearly gone and then.....the unthinkable happened. Rays got it to 7-6 going into the ninth. In the bottom of the 9th, with two outs and two strikes (literally down to their last strike!), a pinch hitter whose name I've forgotten already, smacks a home run to tie the game....and send it into extras. Totally improbable...yet it happened. By this time, the Sox/Orioles game had resumed and the Orioles came back to beat Boston...just a couple of minutes later the Rays Evan Longoria hit a home run to win the game....and shut the door on Boston. Boo frickin hoo. GO RAYS!

On the NL side, the Braves were working on their own historic epic collapse....which would soon go down in history as the biggest collapse in NL history. Up 8.5 (I think) at the beginning of the month, they managed to win like 7 games the whole rest of the month.....and let the Cardinals claw their way back into things. Now, as you know, I'm the biggest Cubs fan there is, BUT, I do live in St. Louis and my entire family and most of my friends are Cards fans, so, I put my baseball pride aside and actually rooted for the Cards. Well, that and the thought of Skip Schumaker for another three or so games was quite appealing. Yes, I'm that shallow. Oh and due to my belief that teams with epic collapses down the stretch do not deserve to get into the playoffs (and, yes, I would say that if it were my Cubbies in the same position. You just don't give up an 8-9 game lead the last month of the season!).  The Cardinals TCB'ed by spanking baseball's worst team, the Astros 8-0. Done and done. Then they hung out in Houston to watch the Phillies/Braves game....all thirteen innings of it. The Braves had a 3-2 lead in the 9th, victory was within their reach.....but you never, ever count out the Phillies. They are good at baseball. Obviously, the Phils tied the game, sending it into extras. And in those extra innings, the Braves had a few chances to put it away-and didn't (it really was like watching a Cubs game). Finally, in the 13th, the Phillies scored...the Braves were unable to in their part of the inning and the game was over. Epic collapse #2. I was totally ok with that for two reasons-1. I love the Phillies and 2. the tomahawk chop is the most annoying thing ever and if I had to watch playoff baseball listening to that, I might have poked my own eyeballs out

A champagne and beer soaked man hug? Yes please.

Skip Schumaker and Albert Pujols

Have I ever mentioned that I LOVE post-season baseball? I don't care what teams are in it, I watch them all. Today is the day I pick new, albeit temporary, allegiances. While my team is packing their stuff and getting ready to play some winter ball (they ALL need to be, just sayin), other teams are getting ready for the games of their lives. So, below are the match ups and my thoughts on each. Obviously, I am loyal to the National League. Will I be loyal to the NL Central as well? Read on.....

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Rangers-vs-Rays. This one is hard for me because I like both teams. The Rays are just an amazing story and, Joe Maddon's new mullet is amazing. That said, Josh Hamilton is one of my favorite players in all of MLB, so rooting for the Rangers should be a no-brainer. No, in this match up, I'll be rooting for both teams, whoever wins, I'm cool with it.

Yankees-vs-Tigers. This feels like a no-brainer. I detest the Yankees (although I do love Joe Girardi) so...Tigers it is. Plus...Justin Verlander is amazing. A-MA-ZING.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Brewers-vs-Diamondbacks. I can't honestly name one person on the Diamondbacks...but I hear they have a real feel good story. The Brewers. Oh the Brewers. I'm not fond of them, but they ARE in the NL Central and I feel like I should stay loyal to my division. I'm not sure who is going to win this one, should be a good series, I think I'll be rooting for the Brewers (my God that feels dirty).

Cardinals/Phillies. This one is the one I'll be struggling with. As has been documented numerous times, the Phillies have been my #2 team for the last few years. It started with my love for Chase Utley, but as I watched the games and followed the players, I grew to love the team as a whole. Plus, Ryan Howard is representin the 'Lou. Holla! On the flip side, I live in St. Louis, AND, my entire family loves the Cardinals AND...quite honestly, I would love for my nearly 84 year old grandfather to get to see the Cardinals win it all again. Yes, I would root for the enemy just to see my family happy. Truly. Plus, more Skip Schumaker time? Sign me up please! AND....it'll be the battle of the Lafayette High School grads (where my niece and nephew will be going, by the way), Ryan Howard on the Phils and David Freese on the Cards (who ain't too bad to look at, I'm just sayin). And, have I mentioned I love Skip Schumaker?

The playoffs start tomorrow and this baseball fan is super duper excited! I LOVE OCTOBER BASEBALL!!!!!!!!

Cubs rookie hazing 2011.

I have no words other than.....this is the GREATEST PIC I'VE EVER SEEN. Oh holy bejebus is this funny! I don't recognize all of them, but the box of fried rice is Darwin Barney, the Hannibal Lector is Casey Coleman, the dude in the blue jumpsuit is DJ LeMahieu, the dude in the back and gold is Andrew Cashner, in the lovely lime green is Tony Campana and in the red, black and yellow dress is Tyler Colvin. I don't know who the giant penis is.

Happy Carlos Pena Day!

Since it's foggy today in St. Louis, I think the odds of us being able to recreate this pic in person are good, don't you?

The Cubbies are in town for the last time this season! Bittersweet-glad this horrendous season is coming to a close....but sad I won't get to see my boys until Spring Training. And...I don't even know if Rami is playing or not this weekend so I may never see him play in a Cubs uniform again. It's been a great eight years Rami! This could also be the last time I see Carlos Pena in a Cubs uniform (I'd like to see him OUT of any uniform, but that's a convo for another time. There could be children reading this). Carlos worked the Cubbie blue like no one ever has. Ever. Damn he's hot.

We are sitting in the section behind home plate tonight, totally within shouting distance of the players. I'm not sure I can promise to behave. I drank caffeine today for the first time in about three weeks and I am WIRED. It should carry me straight through tonight. Watch out.  My girls and I are wearing matching Cubs shirts purchased at Victoria's Secret (yes, they sell sports apparel). We are super cool.

There isn't much to celebrate for this season, BUT, lil Starlin Castro could get hit #200 tonight. That's a pretty big deal, right? He's leading the NL in hits, and only 21 years of age, that's pretty impressive. It'll be super cool to get to witness it. I think Carlos Pena is nearing 30 homeruns as well, so that would be cool to get to see. Other than that, I'm just gonna be ogling hot Dominican asses. Don't judge me.

We will be going to the game on Sunday as well, not close enough to stalk the players, but still on the first base side (ya hear that Carlos and Albert? We.Will.Be.Watching.Your.Hot.Dominican.Asses.).

It's Hot Carlos Eve!

I chose this pic because it may be the last one we see of Rami and Carlos together in a Cubs uniform. Makes me want to weep.

Happy Hot Carlos Eve everyone! The Cubbies are coming to town this weekend for the last time and, like good little stalkers, my friend Robin and I are going to two of the three games. It's what we do.  First on a non-Carlos related topic-hearing Rami say he probably won't be back kinda breaks my heart. I've loved him since 2003, he's been my favorite player (and not just because he has a nice ass), and the thought of him not being in a Cubs uniform makes me sad.  On that same note, this may be the last time we see Carlos in a Cubs uniform as well. Luckily for him, he looks hot no matter what uni he has on, but it sure has been nice to have this nice piece of eye candy to watch all summer long. Especially since the Cubs season was over in April. Carlos Pena is basically the only reason I'm still watching. That, and my favorite hottie football player has been out.

So, tomorrow night we have pretty sweet seats, close enough that Carlos will most certainly hear us yelling at him. If you are watching the game on TV tomorrow night and you see someone storming the field, it may, or may not, be us. Bail money is set aside, just in case.

Also.....the Cubs crappiness could allow the Cardinals to get into the f'ing playoffs. Right? Dude....how did that happen? GFY Braves, can't hold on to a 10 game wild card lead? WTH? I'm not a fan of this arrangement, but whatevs. I just want to see Carlos Pena. And maybe that sweet lil Jailbait boy. I hope we will get to witness Starlin Castro get hit #200 tomorrow night, he's at 199. Leading the NL. Not bad for a 21 year old, huh? He is our "star". Pun intended.

GO CUBS GO!

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

I apologize for the CPPOTD hiatus. Things have been a bit hectic around here. I realized today the one thing I needed to improve my mood-a pic of Carlos Felipe Pena (yes, that's really his middle name).

Carlos doing what he does best-standing there and looking pretty.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my brother!

Today is my "baby" brother's birthday. He's 28. Considering our age gap is nearly 8 years, this makes KD feel incredibly old. That said, I hope you have an amazing day, Timbo Pistachio!

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day-It's Two For One Friday!

check out those guns......

Yes please.

Are you ready for some football????

The 2011 NFL season officially started last night with the defending Super Bowl Champion Packers beating the Saints. Aaron Rodgers is a beast.

Who cares about them. I'm excited about my Rams! Sure, they may not set the world on fire, but I think this is going to be a very different team than we've seen in the past few years. I'm going with the prediction of a 10-6 season. Mark it down. I was right about the Brewers winning the NL Central, wasn't I?

Their first game will be a tough one-against the Eagles. Pshaw. Michael Vick is a mouthy punk. I hope our D sacks him 20 times.

I couldn't help but include this pic of baby Kendall, terrified of the Rams mascot, Rampage. Poor baby girl. It's still a great pic!

I will be glued to the TV at noon on Sunday. Go Rams Go!

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

I wonder if we'll ever get a post-World Series pic of him in a Cubs shirt......

Rest in peace, Pavol Demitra

Ugh. Horrible news today. A plane carrying an entire Russian hockey team crashed today, killing the entire team (reports say that one of the crewmembers survived and that one of the team members originally survived but later died in the hospital). On that plane was former St. Louis Blue Pavol Demitra. He was one of my favorites during the eight years he played for the Blues. How crazy to think of an entire team just gone in the blink of an eye. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of everyone that was on that plane. So, so sad.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day-we're back!

Yum.

Bonus Carlos Pic.....because today sucks and I need a pick-me-up

A Carlos booty shot is a DEFINITE pick me up......

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

Emulating Ronnie's heel click?

Rams 4-0 in the preseason for the first time since 1979. Whoa.

Are you ready for some football? I sure am!

I know, I know, I know, the preseason doesn't count. BUT, the Rams have looked pretty darn good, haven't they? I'm super excited for the season....and cautiously optimistic. I know they have a tough first half of the schedule and face the Eagles in Week 1. BUT, I feel like this team can compete. With anyone. I feel like the crappy NFC West is theirs to lose (not that that would be a difficult feat, but, you know someones gotta win it). I can't wait for the day when Sam Bradford is recognized as the best QB in the NFL. It's gonna happen. He is eerily poised for a 23 year old and damn smart about football.

I love my Rams, it's true. I love them even more since I have a crap-ton of them on my fantasy football team. So, uh, guys, I'm gonna need you to perform because I may, or may not, have been talking some fantasy football smack last night and may have indicated that I planned to dominate. My brother's girlfriend and I are the only girls in our league and we are gonna kick some booty!!!!

Football is coming! WOOOO!

Jury duty blows

To those people that get excited when they get summoned for jury duty, I have this to say to you: Are you effin crazy? I had jury duty yesterday and it was the most God-awfully boring day of my life. Hands down.

When I got the summons about a month ago, I immediately started thinking of ways I could get out of it. None of them panned out. So, bright and early yesterday morning, I headed for downtown STL to the courthouse...even though I had no idea where it actually was. Luckily, they do shuttles from the parking garage so I was transported to courthouse. And then, my boredom began. EIGHT HOURS of sitting. EIGHT. OMG. I read magazines and nearly finished an entire book. I never got called. So, I sat there with about 300 other city of St. Louis residents all....day....long. Several people fell asleep. Then they gave us an hour and 45 min for lunch? Really? Is this how our government really operates? Nearly two hours for lunch? Sounds about right. When I started hearing rumors that we were gonna have to come back today, I nearly cried. Luckily, at 4pm, the deputy lady said we had served our time and didn't have to come back. Thank you baby Jesus. I am not one of those people that at all care about my civic duty.  They say I won't get called again for at least another 12 months. That better be true. I seriously would have rather been at work. Now that's bad.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day-I'm so sorry you've had to live without this for two whole days!

To make up for my lack of CP posting, I present to you an oldie but a goodie......

Ah yes, hot, sweaty, steamy Carlos. Te amo.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

there are so many inappropriate places I could go with this pic.......

Fantasy Football

I am now the proud owner of a fantasy football team. For the first time. I've done fantasy baseball before-I'm familiar with most of the players in both leagues and know the game well, but football is a whole 'nother world. I watch it, I love my Rams, and I get the basics, but I don't understand all the positions (what the F is a nickelback besides a crappy Canadian band?), I don't get the plays, and I am sometimes confused about who is on offense and who is on defense. What I DO know is that Sam Bradford is awesome, so is Steven Jackson and I have a crush on Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo (it's the East Coast accent). So, when my brother decided to put a league together, I thought it might be fun to try it out. And, I named my team Sam's Rams.

Apparently, fantasy football is taken very seriously, I mean, you have a scheduled draft day/time and everything-WTH? So, in order to not draft a completely crappy team, I did my homework. I printed out the ESPN.com fantasy football cheat sheet and studied who the top ranked people were. I knew what positions I needed to draft thanks to my league commissioner/brother, so, I earmarked some players I wanted. Then.....I played the dumb girl card as a bluff. It worked. You should have heard the uproar from my fellow league participants when I landed Philip Rivers as my QB. Now, the only reason I know he is good is because I listen to ESPN radio to and from work every single day and they talk about him all the freakin time, so, when my brother's girlfriend (we're the only girls in this 10 team league-holla!) took my first choice, Aaron Rodgers, I swooped in for the kill with Rivers. My team is as follows (complete with my reasoning for choosing them), you tell me if it's good or not:

QB-Philip Rivers (he's apparently amazing. Guess we'll find out)

QB (backup)-Sam Bradford (hells yes! I loves me some Sammy B...I even have his jersey)

RB-Steven Jackson (he's awesome and....I'm a total homer)

RB-Benjarvus Green-Ellis (never heard of him, but he was ranked high and on the Patriots, so I went with it)

RB/WR-Ladanian Tomlinson (I'd heard his name before, I don't know if he's actually good though)

WR-Reggie Wayne (again, he was ranked high, so seemed like a good idea)

WR-Mike Sims Walker (again being a homer. I love my Rams!)

WR-Danny Amendola (Ram, he's super hot, and he's like the little engine that could....love him!)

TE-Greg Olsen (I don't really know what a tight end does, but this guy was ranked high.)

D/ST-I got the Eagles defense/special teams. (I don't really know much more than that. Hope they're good)

K-Nate Kaeding (I wanted Rams kicker Josh Brown, but he was already taken. This guy will work.)

HC-the dude from the Steelers (His team always makes the playoffs, so, I'll take him.)

Bench players:

Chad Ochocinco-I saw him on Dancing With the Stars and he was pretty funny. Plus, he's kinda hot.

James Jones-never heard of him, but he's on the Packers and they won the Super Bowl last year. So, there's that.

Darren Sproles-I've heard his name before....and that's about it.

Dustin Keller-never heard of him, but he's on Mike Greenberg's Jets, so that's good enough for me.

DeMarco Murray-never heard of him either.

Jason Snelling-never heard of him either....I think this is when I started getting tired of the draft.

Danario Alexander-DX may not even make the Rams team, but he's a Mizzou alum and we love him here in the STL. Go DX go!

So....whaddya think? Is Sam's Rams a worthy team?

Vapors Part deux

Who knew there were so many sexy pics of Danny Amendola on the internets?

I've got the vapors

Dear God in Heaven, thank you for creating this man. And thank you Robin Daher for discovering this faint- worthy pic on the interwebs. Ladies, meet Rams wide receiver Danny Amendola. Holy bejebus he's hot.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day-it's You Get Two Friday!

Does his shirt say "cerveza"? I wanna drink cerveza with him.

This is just delish.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

My two favorite Dominicans

Rylan is one week old today!

No, I'm not gonna bore you with weekly updates about how old my nephew is, just wanted to comment this one time. I can't believe he's already been with us for a week, yet at the same time, it feels like he's always been here. I remember this time last week I was anxiously awaiting a phone call telling me that he was here and healthy. He is 100% healthy and such a handsome little guy (of course). I remember going to the hospital after work to see him and instantly falling in love.

I was looking at Kendall's newborn pics last night and I see a lot of similarities with Rylan. They don't look exactly alike-but pretty close. I've now gone two whole days without seeing him and I'm having baby boy withdrawals! I'm lucky that I got to see him daily for the first five days of his life. I think I'm gonna get to see him tomorrow night, so I'll get my fix.

Kendall has been really good about the new addition so far. There's been some acting out-like her deciding to eat dog food-but overall, she's been handling it really well. She calls him "my Rylan" and doesn't understand why he can't yet play with her. She may change her mind when he's mobile and grabbing her toys. :) When mommy takes Rylan for walks in his stroller, Kendall takes her baby doll she named Dora for a walk in her stroller too-it's too cute. She tries to entertain Rylan but doesn't quite get that all he's into right now is eating, sleeping and peeing/pooping. And figuring out who all these crazy people are that like to hold him all the time.

These are two very loved children. God has blessed us twofold now. They are amazing and I'm so honored I get to call them my niece and nephew.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

I know he's in a Rays uni, but I like his smile in this pic.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

It's Monday. I needed a Carlos Pena booty shot to get me through the day.

Ding dong, the witch is dead!

Ok, he's not actually dead, but Cubs fans everywhere are rejoicing today as it it being reported that Cubs GM Jim Hendry has been fired. I'd dance in the street if I wasn't chained to my desk today. Hip, hip, hooray! I mean, I certainly don't like to see anyone unemployed, but Hendry had to go.Yes, during his tenure the Cubs went to the playoffs three times, but  he is also the responsible party for such horrendous acts as an EIGHT year contract for Alfonso Soriano among other atrocities. He.Had.To.Go.

This is the first good decision the Ricketts family has made. Let's hope the smartness continues.

Coma

So, apparently we had a mega storm last night and early this morning. As I drove down my street this morning, I saw trees and branches down, the streets had standing water...mega storm. Yours truly had no idea. Slept through it all. Huh. Musta been sleepy, huh?

I have been quite sleepy this week-not sure why, I mean, I wasn't the one that had a c-section and now has a newborn-that would be my sister. And I haven't been caring for a 2 year old all week-that would be my parents. Yes, I've been at the hospital every night, but I don't think holding my handsome nephew for a couple of hours would constitute exhaustion. Yet, I've been fast asleep by 10pm every night this week. Dude.

So, now the weekend is upon us. My sister and baby Rylan are coming home today! YAY! We are going to have a nice little family dinner at their house tonight. Rylan clearly does not like people messing with him-I hear he was quite angry yesterday when my sister tried to dress him in a cute little outfit for his hospital photo. He apparently screamed the entire time and refused to take a nice picture. That's my boy-already stubborn. :)

He was much sweeter while I was there. He was a hungry boy, that's for sure. And he is so strong! Already holding his head up. He was so cute, holding his head up and looking for his mama. My brother-in-law said he's already a mama's boy. HA!  Kendall is still good with him, she put stickers on him last night (she LOVES to put stickers on people and things). We will see how the transition home goes.

Tomorrow we have our monthly Girl's Lunch and then tomorrow night, my brother and I are going to the Rams game! Yes, it's pre-season, but who cares, we got tickets for $4. Seriously. Go Rams Go!

It's a Cards-Cubs weekend. This time in Chicago. Do I care? Meh. I'll be able to watch them (except for today because it's a day game), and maybe I will. Maybe I won't. I'm more focused on seeing my baby nephew and spending time with my wild child niece. Is it at all concerning that she was singing "Shake Your Booty?". What's funny is that way back when I was a tot, my Aunt Paula taught me that song....so I guess it's a family tradition? Also, if you ask K what her last name is, she says "Kendall Ballgame". Hilarious.

Happy weekend everyone!

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

baseball would be so much cooler if they played shirtless.

My handsome lil buddy!

Meet Rylan! His hat is on crooked-he's totally gangsta.

I am soooo in love with this little guy. He's opening his eyes more and just trying to figure out who all these people are that keep coming to visit him. He's a sweet boy but was a little cranky last night....prolly cuz he was circumsized earlier in the day. That'd make you cranky too, I'm sure.

Aunt Kerri is going back to the hospital today to see my favorite little man. Hopefully he and mommy will get to go home tomorrow! Uncle Tim is already calling him "Ry Guy" and my dad keeps calling him "Riley". Come on dad, even his two year old sister knows his name! ;)

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

I don't know if he was out in this pic.....and I really don't care. He's hot.

I'm in love with my baby nephew!

Oh my goodness, I am in love with a certain newborn little boy.

My nephew is absolutely beautiful. Perfect round head and dark, dark hair. None of us can really tell who he looks like yet-with Kendall most everyone saw her daddy in her, but with Rylan, it's hard to say. He just looks like Rylan. He's got chubby little cheeks.....and a double chin. Boy's got some big feet, long legs. Maybe he'll be tall like his daddy? He is absolutely perfect. His doctor pronounced him 100% healthy, I am thankful to God for that. My sister looks great, even though she didn't think so.

Seeing my niece with her "brudder" was about the cutest thing I've ever experienced. She told him all about his "blue room" at home and all the toys he has in it. She wanted him to come home with her last night. On our way out she did keep saying "where's mommy?", which broke my heart a bit, but we just kept explaining to her that mommy had to sleep in the hospital and that is why Pawpaw and Bal (what she calls my mom!) would be watching her. Once we reminded her that they were taking her to the zoo, she was cool. :)

I'll try to get a pic of Mr. Handsome up soon. I'm having technical difficulties at home currently. Stay tuned.

My nephew is here!!!!!!

Yay for babies! My nephew Rylan Alexander Baumgart was born this morning at 9:44am via scheduled c-section. He was 7 lbs and 13 oz and 20 inches long. Mama and baby are doing great! I haven't seen any pics yet, but I'm sure they're coming.

SO grateful to God that baby Rylan is here safely. I hope that baby boy knows how much he is already loved! Aunt Kerri can't wait to see him this afternoon!

Bonus Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day because my friend Robin is THE BEST!

Yes, it's a repeat pic but seriously, could you ever get tired of seeing this? I think not.

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

Ladies, you like this angle?

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you tomorrow!

Guess what tomorrow is? Tomorrow my nephew will be greeting the world! YAY! I can't believe it's finally time! He will be arriving tomorrow morning via scheduled c-section. Our family is so freakin excited. I'm not sure I'll be able to sleep tonight! Still not sure how big sister Kendall feels about the whole thing, but I think having "pawpaw and bal" giving her attention all week should help.

I just can't wait to see that sweet little baby's face. I can't wait to get that phone call tomorrow that he is here and 100% healthy and that my sister is 100% ok after the surgery. That's all I want right now. That's all life is gonna be about this week. That beautiful baby boy and his big sister are such blessings. We are so lucky!

We're also blessed tha my sis and brother-in-law now live here so that we can all be present when the little guy is born-no, not for the actual c-section, but that day. No more traveling to Texas for us! And now that my brother lives here too, he will have easy access to his new nephew (not to mention his little niece who loves her Tim!).

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

"Rami, you know how it is, being this ridiculously good looking. Life is hard, man".

.....and then there were two.

The Cubs started the season with four Carlos-es: Fat Carlos, Crazy Carlos, Hot Carlos and Filthy Carlos. They are now down to only Hot and Filthy (heh!). We all know the story on Carlos "Fattie" Silva (I wonder what he's doing now?). Well....I believe the Carlos Zambrano Era has come to an end. Or....at least it should.

Big Z had yet another one of his patented meltdowns this weekend....threw at Chipper Jones on purpose (after giving up FIVE home runs in one game) and was kicked out of the game. Rather than taking it like a man, Big Z pouted, stomped off to the locker room, cleared out his locker and said he was retiring. Mature, huh? Z has since retracted the "I'm retiring" part, but the Cubs, I think, have had it. I think this was the last straw. Z has been suspended without pay for 30 days. I truly don't think we'll ever see him in a Cubs uniform again. And.....I'm kinda sad about that. Sad that a man with all the talent in the world let his emotions get the best of him and affect his career so greatly. He's his own worst enemy. And let's face it, the Cubs have enough to worry about what with their crappy GM sticking around and their owners that know nothing about owning an MLB team...oh and there's that whole not winning in 103 years thing, so, another Z tantrum is not something they needed right now. I hope, for the Cubs franchise, that this was the last Z tantrum in a Cubs uniform. Let him be someone else's problem now.

Vaya con Dios Carlos! (Impressive Spanish, eh?)

Today's Carlos Pena Pic Of The Day

Why Carlos, what form you have........