My week with Boston.

It has been a strange week. Last Monday as I sat down to do some computer work, news broke about the Boston Marathon bombing. Immediately I read so many conflicting reports in the early moments that I turned it off. We all react differently to tragedy this was tragedy mixed with misinformation. I simply wanted to know what happened for sure, and was willing to wait to get good information.

Boston and I have a checkered past. To any people who have known me throughout the years I've been known to root for every team playing Boston, mocked their terrible fans, purchased anti-Boston shirts, and called it "The butthole of America."  And that's really the tip of the iceberg.

Over the past year I've tried to change my tune. Erasing the hate was a top priority of mine. I went even so far as to rip an "I Hate Boston" shirt on my show Talking Trash while it was still on. While I still dislike a lot of Boston fans, detest the Bawston accent, think "Sweet Caroline" is an awful song, and Hate the Bruins (Go Habs Go!) there is one thing I dislike more. Terrorism.

As I got the news of what happened I was preparing for a journey to Hyannis, MA for the NEISMA convention. It was a rare trip to get out of town for work. The NEISMA convention is an Ice Rink thing. The next day with many questions still unanswered and no suspects even named. Willie Adam and I headed south for Hyannis. we drove right through Boston. All of the billboards and signs after only a day astounded me. There was no doubt that Boston was strong. I had always known that. Had they not been strong before they wouldn't have posed a worth adversary for my hatred. 

As more came out the next day Willie and I again drove, or should I say crawled, through Boston. Again I saw the signs. even trying to take a picture of one. As I came back to Vermont I felt myself feeling angry, confused... we all were and still are. As New Englanders you don't just know one person in Boston. You know at least 50. On Friday as the city was shut down. I had a hard time conveying how I felt. Usually in tough situations I use humor, but in times like these all comedians aren't even touching "too soon" jokes.

As I saw others around me, on TV, and the Internet pouring out support, well wishes, and #BostonStrong hashtags, I was feeling weird. Finally I came to some realizations.

As I rode to Marlborough, MA on Sunday I thumbed through my issue of Sports Illustrated. The cover has a gripping shot. Then as I flipped inside many more images and stories, but one grabbed my attention. A view from near the finish line shows smoke and a large scene, but in the lower corner I noticed that the cover shot was being taken. See if you can see it.

This photo sparked in me a need to blog. I need to write about a time in my life that I was never conflicted about my support of Boston. A time when someone attacked the "butthole." America's butthole. Our butthole. I thought back to what David Ortiz said in the first game back at Fenway (See picture). This is our fucking city. Not Massachusetts', not New England's, not even America's. It's a city that represents the Earth. Good, Bad, and the ugly. Where FREEDOM should be respected, and sanity should rule the day. These type of acts show the good in people, more than they show the bad. Weak-minded people made us all #BostonStrong


So last night before I went to bed I did something that I should have done earlier in the week. I changed my Facebook profile picture to the B-Strong logo. A spot that has seen that same logo with a red circle around it and a line through it in the past. Tonight I'll head from Marlborough in to Boston. In to see David Ortiz and these "B" clad gents host the Oakland A's. I hope to purchase a shirt in support of these Red Sox or the city of Boston. Tonight when Sweet Caroline plays I'll sing along. I'll root for the home team (If they don't win it's a shame). I'll never forget a week I felt connected to a city I used to hate. And tonight I look forward to burying the hatchet with a city. A city that represents Earth. On Earth Day.

I expect tonight that I'll have more stories, sights and sounds to share. It has been too long since I last blogged. I needed this. Hopefully if you read this you got something out of it too.

Disclaimer: I'm not claiming to be a Boston fan when it comes to their sports teams. I still hope the Bruins lose every game. But that's based more on their rivalry with my Canadiens. It's nice to have separation between sports and the world and this issue solidified what I've been working on for the past year or so. No matter you're thoughts on teams, accents, or area, NoOne should mess with our freedom, livelihood, or resolve! B-Strong!

Softball, Talking Trash to Return & much more!

Well once again it's been a over a month since I've last checked in. I've been keeping busy. First of note is that I will be back out of the house on Weaver for most of August. Packing what little stuff I moved back in, out for now. There will also be another time in October where I'll be out and even though this isn't an ideal situation for me with all of the moving around, I'm not complaining because I'm not paying any rent. It's worth it for me to save the money in the ole 'Escape Fund' so I can eventually move out of Vermont again.

The state tournament was this past weekend and again out team had a long Sunday. Five games as compares to last years seven aside we again came in 2nd. I felt disappointed after the final game because I know we could have beaten that team if we were fresher. Since I reported last year, in this blog, about the State Tournament it made me hungry to go back and win it this year. It felt empty to take home 2nd again and I felt like the folks who were there for the year before felt similarly. Still it was a nice run and we had a great time and once again took home some hardware. I've already verbally committed to go back next year and hope that the third time is the charm for the 1st place trophy.

In other softball action the regular seasons are coming to a close and soon the playoffs begin. This will mean playing for our lives and hopefully we can finish better than we did last year. I'm optimistic that McKees can turn around the recent slide. The other team, Banana Winds, is very hit or miss. Somedays we hit and play well, and other days it's pop-outs, tons of errors and frustration. Either way you slice it it's sad to think that a month from now both seasons will be over.

Talking Trash will return soon and I'm simply trying to find a good time to do the show live that works with my winter work schedule which will return in September. Right now it's too soon to say but I'd love a Monday spot... otherwise I might ask work for permission to leave work and make up the hours during the week. Stay tuned, but before I finish on this point i just want to thank the fans of the show. You're questioning of the show and where it went along with fine memories of it sparked the return. I was never really sure people watched it but the kind words I've heard over the past year have told me that this area needs Talking Trash to return. A breed of sports talk show not seen or heard in this area. Hopefully we can rise like a Phoenix from the ashes and not lie dormant like a Phoenix sports team.

I got to drop the ceremonial puck for the Summer Classic game put on by the UVM Men alumni and it was quite the event. It was an honor to be asked to be a part of the game in anyway. I thought back to the kid that used to come to UVM hockey games with his Dad and to be this tight with former and current players and coaches sure is awesome. I was billed as a 'local celebrity' the fellas were big fans of Talking Trash back in the day. The game helped raise money for the Make-A-Wish foundation and next year for the 3rd annual installment I see even bigger things happening! Put this on your to-do-list for 2012!

Since February I've been seeing a gal. We took a break for a while in the early spring but have been together for awhile and it's really been something else. I've not really been in a relationship in years and I had gotten so used to being single that I've had a hard time adjusting. I don't want to get in to it too much, but just wanted to mention that Brittni and I are together (despite what her Facebook Status says) and we're taking it day-by-day. I definitely feel the age difference (24-32) from time to time due to her lack of wanting to relax and my almost seemingly dependent want to relax. Just a part of being different people I guess. I spend a lot of time at her place, for a couple obvious reasons and Justin St. Louis lives there too so it's become a place to hang. Really it's made me miss having a place of my own, to house my items and such, but I try to stay patient and know that if I do I'll be rewarded with what I really want eventually.

Overall life is pretty good and I really shouldn't be able to complain, but as the Adam Carolla podcast teaches us when they play 'What Can't Adam Complain About?" I can always find some stuff I'd like to be better. I stay sane by realizing that Vermont is simply not long-term for me and I can be free of a lot of what ails me when I move away someday.

Time for Quick Hits!

- Speaking of the Adam Carolla podcast... why aren't you listening to this? It's free, it's on iTunes, and it's funny as hell. If you loved him on Loveline back in the day you'll love him uncensored and uninhibited! The Ace Man makes me actually want to register to vote so I can vote for him for president. Get on board, and get it on. Because after all you have no choice but to get it on, and as always Adam mandates that you 'Get it on!'

- Anyone ever played the "Road to the Show" mode on MLB The Show games? It's a lot of fun and a unique way to play the game. Did it once in a hockey, football, and basketball games, but the baseball is the best of them all I says!

- Lowe's blowes. Never met anyone who likes them other than Jimmie Johnson, and Brittni. Jimmie just likes them cause they pay the bills, Brit likes them cause they allow dogs so Sadie can shop with her. Their service and delivery departments are where they fail big time!

- Dog's on ice is funny... not like the ice show I mean literally... Dogs on ice

- Life is too short to not do things you want to do if you can, and in most cases you can make it so if you really want.

- Got an appointment about my knee on Monday. It's never really felt bad but loves to swell up. 3 knees are not the recommended amount of knees for a human.

- I hate having a sunburn so much that I rarely partake in the summer sun. I am what you would call, "Indoorsy" (to quote the great Jim Gaffigan)

- Golf Ball + Metal Baseball bat = FAR

- Finally, I hope everyone continues to have a safe and fun summer. It's hot right now but you know the cold weather is only a couple months away.

Pich' I'm outta here!

Checking in...

It's been far too long since I've last checked in. As has become custom with the better weather there has been less of me sitting at a computer. So much as happened headlined by the return of the softball season, better work hours, and my trip to Delaware and D.C. But rather than recount it all I figure I'll save some of that stuff for quick hits at the end, but before I go any further let's go to the explanation station known as FAQs

FAQs

1. Why do you hate boston so much?

This will best be described in a spot I'm well overdue to create on my website, but really quick since I'm asked that a lot I'll say that you have to take me with a grain of salt. I like to be the 'heel' or bad guy for the sake of entertainment... the main difference here is that when the curtain goes down I still hate boston. I'm ok with the fact that others love it... to each their own, just don't expect me to love it cause I never will. So much about it is wrong and I'll save that for later, but just know that when it comes down to the things I say if you find them funny you 'get it' if you simply think I'm being a dick then you don't. If you don't find it funny you should at least respect my hate. I give credit to others when it's due... like the bRuins campaign referring to Lightning fans as a thing that doesn't exist... good series of posters... I didn't agree with them, but I respected them on a comedy level. When it comes to things that are funny, how many times do we find another's failure funny, or their appearance, or maybe their voice. Hate is funny... bottom line. I'm guessing you'd rather hear me rant about why airport security sucks than why I love it. It's all about entertainment. Is my brand of funny in the 'boston hate' case meant to appeal to everyone? Nope. In fact its against what most people I know feel about the boston area, it's teams, and fans. However here's the deal... not everyone 'got' Seinfield. Not everyone thinks Will Ferrell is funny, and not everyone will be pleased with what I say about boston... such is life. I'm not here to get everyones approval... just here to make some jokes, some off-color some on-color (is that a real thing?)... take it or leave it. That's my take... just wanted you all to know that despite hating the bRuins I don't hate you for liking them, rather I hate your decision to like them, but respect your right to do so. Trust me I censor myself a lot because I sometimes think even over my own personal 'line'. Respect my hate and I'll respect your love... said it a million times, still holds true.

2. Why are you moving out this weekend?

The deal when I moved in to the house on Piche Campus was that when my family came home for the summer that I would vacate the spot while they are here. It should be 2-3 weeks until I can hopefully move back in and resume somewhat normal living. Meanwhile I'll put some of my stuff in storage, and be couch surfing with the FloZone and work being my main go-tos. The situation was great for me since November when I moved in and hopefully I'll be permitted to live in the house again for another year or so.

3. What the hell is the FloZone?

It's the nickname of the place where Brittni, Justin, and Eva live in Winooski. Oddly right across the street from my uncle's old house and it has a porch that my Dad and his uncle's worked on years ago.

4. How was D.C.?

The trip down south for the Dover race and the Nationals game in D.C. was awesome. After avoiding near death and 4 deer on the drive down I was ready to have some fun. It was great to hang with Terry and Carl again after so many years away from that race weekend. The gents stepped up their game with the RV and it was a great time. I shot a lot of video for a project currently underway and even won a whopping sum at the casino! The Nationals game was long overdue... I had tickets to games there 2 other times but had to get rid of them both (friends wedding, moved to Milwaukee) Being a Nats fan I had played so many virtual games on the PS3 over the years that I felt like I had already been there. It was awesome to see all the things for real that I had virtually seen. The Nats won the game and it was dollar food night! Then I headed back for VT and stayed the night right by the Orange County Choppers building. The next day I checked out the shop and it was quite the sight. Eventually I made it home in time for a softball game and life went back to normal.

5. What is this 'FourSquare?'

It's a way to check-in places that you are and earn points, badges and mayorships for doing so. Vermonters aren't to hip to it yet and I'll admit I was even late to the party after having checked it out back in '09... since VT is always behnd the times I'm guessing you'll all jump on soon... unless you don't want people to know where you are and you hate fun... in which case skip it.

6. So really... what's up with the Pich' Awards?

Sadly my standards are higher than my time to put in to them ratio. I'm cooking up a less sexy version simply to let people know what's up... cause I mean after all... the 2011 award nominees are coming together as we speak.

7. What would you do if Tim Thomas won the Cup and brought it to UVM?

Let's not ask such silly questions... they already bRuined the playoffs by getting to the finals... now they'll lose because the only good thing about the bRuins is that they are the one team in boston that remembers their roll as losers. Hopefully the Canucks win it in boston so the fans can see the one trophy eluding them since 1972!

Before I leave it's time for Quick Hits... quickly taking the blogosphere by storm!

QUICK HITS

- Nighttime + 4 deer x 1 Saturn(70MPH + Cruise control) = Ending up stopped backwards on the Interstate at 2:30AM (No deer were harmed in this equation... also no Pich's... but considerable tire rubber was harmed.)

- Danny Espinosa will be the NL Rookie of the Year... I've said it a lot out loud for months now, but wanted to get it down in writing. Dude mashed the game winning bomb at the game I went to for good measure, just mere innings before i told Carl he would be the NL ROY

- I love that the word 'Ruin' is most of the word 'bRuin.' But you already knew that.

- Remember that time we all Cited? TeamCite.com swept the Northern Vermont webscape for awhile, but really sit and ask yourself... when did I last Cite? I think you'll find it was too long ago.

- If you aren't following Ben Crenca on Twitter... do it... dude loves wrestling, and most things right in the world. Also he'll be the main man in the middle for the UVM hoop Cats this season and what better way to get to know the man, the myth, and the legend? Crenca 3:16

- To back up that last point... if you aren't on Twitter what's your problem? Remember how you dismissed Facebook until you finally broke down and joined? Don't do that to Twitter... you've already missed so much time together... plus you've missed my infinite wisdom @ThePich84!

- Laying indoor turf sucks... no matter what format, or where you do it... trust me I know of what I speak.

- RVing > Camping

- Jimmie Johnson, while still spelling his name wrong and repping the evil home-store known as Lowe's, has earned my respect. Dude has 5 Championships in a row... he's pretty much the Lance Armstrong, or Rafael Nadal of his group. He's the best... we get it... now I'd like to see him do something else and let some other guys win.

- Never ever paint while wearing a jersey... seriously you're just asking for trouble there.

- If a kid from Special Olympics makes a snowman out of your Zamboni snow and dresses it up with a Grave Digger hat, that's a good time right there!

- Softball single-handedly makes my summer great. So far this year my teams have already had 3 walk-off wins 2 of which I was a huge part of. The excitement, the exercise, and the people make it a great time. McKees post-game most Tuesday and Thursdays really makes the weekdays go by fast!

- I hope that when I die someday, that someone is smart enough to sound a buzzer and then make an announcement as to what the final score is while asking everyone to drive home safely.

I'm off for now! Pich' Out

29 Photos for the 29th of April... My Birthday

As my 32nd birthday approached I realized it would be a pretty average day. I had to work and with my usual co-hort on vacation calling sick or taking the day off wasn't really an option. Also I didn't see the need seeing as I don't need to celebrate on the psychical day. However I decided that since I hadn't taken pictures in a while ( I shoot mostly video now) that I'd go old school and have a day with the camera. Above there is shot 1 of the day taken at Midnight after I had gotten home from work Thursday night. The BirthDAY had now begun. I sadly then penned the Atlanta Hawks past my Orlando Magic from earlier in the night. Pictured below.




Then after only 2 minutes of day Connie Richer scored the 1st Birthday well wish at 12:02AM!




From there I decided to have a snack to kick-off my birthday right... and I went cereal but had to choose between 3 classic favorites. I decided to go with Frosted Flakes because like me "There're Great!" and it's my birthday after all...




The cereal is enlarged to show texture... but any-who I rock the soy milk as to avoid the lactose issues... Then I decided to chase that with some pie my Dad brought me a few days earlier as sort of a birthday cake... because I love Apple pie.



It was a peach pie... but ate it anyway. I had never had it before but it was pretty tasty in in my Dad's defense the label on the side was small. While I ate I watched 'Cougar Town' on Hulu... it's a guilty pleasure show, but it makes me laugh.



Then it was time to shave off the playoff beard. The Canadiens and Magic were both upset in the 1st round of their respective playoffs and this meant the beard had to come off. Here I size it up...




Then after the shave and shower I examine the new face which looks chubby and I hate all pictures of me from now forward. I require some facial hair... this is not a good look for me. I did leave myself a small 5 o'clock shadow in hopes that in a couple of days it will be a 7 o'clock shadow.



After the shower and shave I headed downstairs to get some laundry going. and great the basement is flooded... again.





After I started laundry I got to doing what I do most evenings which is my quest with the Washington Nationals on MLB 11 The Show. I'm already in September and have played every game! Maybe I shouldn't be proud of it but hey I don't have cable so instead of watching TV I play video games. Anyway here I get set for a 4-game series with at Citi Field against the Mets.




After taking 3 of the 4 against the Mets it's time for bed. And it's 5:30AM cause that's how I roll and I had to play 4 games tonight 2 of which went into extra innings. Anyway I retired to hibernate away a large portion of the day.



12:12pm is the time I was born and my Mom always calls me then.



But of course I'm still...



Upon waking up at around 1:50pm I start my day like a champion... or at least a really good role player. I watch 'The Office' and say good-bye to Michael Scott on Hulu as I wake up. Between the Canadiens, Magic, and Scott I've lost a lot of favorites this week...



Then I figure out which hat to wear today which usually dictates the outfit. Here's a look at the hats I have spread out in the spare room which I pretty much use as a walk-in closet for accessories.



From there it was off to work but not without yelling at the freeloading cat that always hangs out in and around our neck of the woods. He ruins my day everyday, with his laziness and slothful-like ways. I usual bark at him to 'Get a Job' or 'Find your own home you don't live here.' Sometimes I'm more cruel... depends on my mood. Today he just gets a stare-down and he respectfully stares back as if he knows to not get in my way for at least 1 of the 365 days of this year.




Then I get in my car to drive to work. Only about a 2.5 mile drive and in fact I only filled my tank once in April!



Soon after my arrival I am doing some Zamboni work and actually have a fair amount on my plate today because I'm working alone for the entire shift.



Despite things heating up later to keep me busy I finally connect with my Mom after some phone tag, and later my Dad who both wish me a happy birthday and we exchange pleasantries.



For lunch I had a Taco Bell grilled stuft burrito leftover from yesterday and a UVM issue cookie.



Then I stayed busy doing a little of this and a little of that. Tomorrow the Special Olympics has things going on and there was also a dance recital set-up, and the final lacrosse games for men and women tomorrow so there were a lot of little things to do aside fro the usual. Lately I've started a painting project in my free-time to turn all the ugly light-green beams in the hockey rink to the dark green school-color they should be. Should keep me busy this summer.



Look at that Majestic Mountain Cat!



Then after finishing the last ice and locking everything up I headed for home.



Soon after coming in the door I see my birthday card my Dad has left on the table. I open it to a great surprise and the song 'The Climb' by my girl... well done Father!



From there I had to feed the hunger inside me, and sweet potato fries and chicken nuggets always do that trick.



Then a couple of friends stopped by with 2 bins of mini cupcakes... I ate several of them in typical "me" fashion which sent Rose, a relative newcomer to my feasting ways in to an amazement bout of laughter. This is the surviving tray.



At this point my technical Birth DAY had finished and eventually I got back in to some MLB 11 and eventually went to bed. There is an outing planned for Saturday night after I get out of work early. No solid plan is made yet but folks will be downtown and the celebrating that most would figure for a birthday will be in full effect. Maybe I'll take pictures of that too! All in all, it was a better birthday than the last one I spent in Vermont back in '08, long story, and therefore in it's mediocrity it was a solid day.

Milwaukee wrap-up, and revelations a-plenty!

I can't get over how far I've come. A different me at a different time would have blogged from Milwaukee, but this guy did what I had to do and waited. Most of what I've worked on in therapy is my move back from Milwaukee. Dealing with being so close to having what I'd always wanted and yet having to walk away. I needed to go to Milwaukee to enjoy it for what it was. And enjoy I did. It was all I remembered it to be.

I loved every moment of the visit. Even seeing people I thought I might never see again in places I thought I'd never see again. It was what I needed. There was AHL action. There was NBA, NHL, and MLB on consecutive days. There was drinking and good times on week nights. There was cheese soup, Sonic, and a even a trip to Woodman's. There were so many little things that made me smile. From the eating habits of Dan and Neil to the horrible lawyer commercials.

I waited to write about it all because I wanted to see my therapist first and let some time pass. I needed to process. A different me at a different time would have itemized the trip spelling out everyday. But now I simply have it all in my head. I took less pictures then I've ever taken on a trip. Instead I took video for my Milwaukee movie. I knew that I'd want to live in these moments rather than get a snapshot of it. I'm happier that I have the stories and memories from a trip that was truly a trip back in time... I couldn't help but feel weird that the time I was there marked a year from the time I decided to leave there.

That reminds me that as May 6th nears I'll have been back for a year. It seems longer.

Before that happens I'll turn 32! I often wonder where the time went now. At least I know where it's going in the future, or at least where it's not going to be.

Over the last few months I had gotten back in to dating. Myself and the ladies had gone M.I.A. since the person who eventually led me to Milwaukee back in early 2008. While I won't get specific about the young ladies I dated I will say that I learned a lot from these experiences. Probably more 'what not to do' stuff than positive stuff, but all-in-all I'm sorry for the way things have turned out and I hope to take the good stuff and use it in the future while leaving the bad stuff behind. Usually I stay friends with exes and girls I've dated, but I regrettably can't say that I'm on speaking terms with my last three now. Hopefully that changes in time.

It's actually been liberating to talk to someone else about issues and not feel like I needed to rely on this blog or the Internet to share everything going on in my head. I leaned on this crutch so hard when I was 1st in Milwaukee that it led to me getting fired... I mean something had to change at some point... I can hear my Mom clapping from here.

However my time with therapy is coming to an end with the end of the UVM Spring semester around the corner. Soon there will be different work hours, softball galore, and some moving situation at some point in late July-early August. For now I keep plugging away. Showing up for work and getting it done. Sitting my ass home more than even this homebody would like, playing video games and saving money. Prepping for my return trip to the Maryland-Delaware area for the NASCAR race at Dover and some Nationals games in DC.

I have become too overwhelmed by my visions for The Pich' Awards. I set the bar too high, and am working on scaling it down. Maybe if I had a team of editors, videographers, and actors... but then I guess that would be a movie and start losing the point of The Pich' Awards. Hopefully you smell what I'm cooking soon...

Quick Hits

- Did You Know? Quick Hits is the highest rated part of The Pich' Blog?

- Yes, I do have a bumper sticker that reads 'Everything boston Sucks'... sadly the font capitalized every letter because I don't usually reserve a capital 'b' for boston.

- Have you watched 'Raising Hope' or 'Traffic Light' on Fox yet? Not too shabby... always good for a laugh. (this Quick Hit was in no way sponsored by Fox, but for the right price I will whore out myself, my website, or my blog)

- Ed Companion and I are trying to resurrect some poker on Monday nights. The plan is to maybe plan one or two Mondays ahead of time to give people time to plan for it. So if you're interested let us know... we've already heard interest from some WPT legends and some aspiring Weav' virgins... we plan to play this Monday the 25th so maybe 8ish? I don't know stay tuned...

- Mini Tacos = Mega Heartburn

- If you don't follow me on Twitter do it. @ThePich84 I'm a good time and if you're not using Twitter, me and my tweeps should be reason enough to start... join the next century already... I mean what gaming system are you using? Atari?

- Now that I've used the best toilet ever... making waste just feels wasted (teaser for a video to come soon!)

- I love to shove obscene amounts of food in to my face. I eat for maximum taste in every bite and most times I choose to go big. Anyone who has ever seen me mow through some cake, a stack of waffles, or a bowl of cereal is probably already getting a chuckle remembering that time they almost made me spit it out. I shove in food when I'm not in a 'proper social setting' so be ready for it... either help me eat it, or just let me go... if you laugh we might have a mess on our hands... your welcome

- Burger King's new chicken nuggets are OK but not worth writing home about... wait I think I just did... shit

- Theres a path you take and a path not taken, the choice is up to you my friend.

- Yes, the last Quick Hit was a direct quote from the 'Who's The Boss" theme song.

- Both the Nationals and Brewers are out to good starts in MLB. The Canadiens and Magic are both in the playoffs but neither is expected to go far... hopefully they again outplay their expectations.

- Speaking of sports if the NFL doesn't play this season, and the NBA also does the lockout thing that's feared, that would open things up for the always popular NCAA basketball, but also make the NHL king! Hooray Hockey!

- I'd like to thank Neil Wolfe and Dan Young for hosting me on the recent trip to Milwaukee. Also a big thanks to everyone who made some time to see me while I was there and make in such a great trip. I forgot I knew so many people there, it was great to see you all!

- Food For Thought: I've always speculated that Uncle Ben is married to Aunt Jemima.

In closing I'd like to say that this me, in this time, wants everyone to know that I'm doing well, I'm comfortable with where I'm at for now, and I look forward to seeing where the future takes me. Everyday we cope with something, it's how we cope that makes us who we are.

Ready for the 414

Tomorrow at this time I'll be in Milwaukee. I've had an interesting year to say the least. At this time last year I lived in Milwaukee and was seriously considering moving home to VT... in Early April my mind was made up and the wheels went in to motion... by May 6th I was gone.

When I moved out to Milwaukee I always dreamed of returning to Vermont to visit and having nothing but good to report from my new life. Stories of interest, happiness, and a sense that things were going well for me. I felt I never really had that trip back to Vermont, but this journey back to Milwaukee is sort of that in reverse.

I had hard times in Milwaukee, some I caused on my own and some just added by whichever cruel director is running this show we call life. For whatever reason I had to go there to get to here, and I've never regretted it for a second. Sounds dumb but it's made me who I am, and i'm happy with that.

I've gone through the proper channels to get over the loss of all that Milwaukee was for me, and I know I can have a less-complicated version of that life again somewhere else in the future. But for now I welcome the chance to go back to Wisconsin, get video for my movie, and simply enjoy all that it was. I look forward to reuniting and catching up with the many friends and faces that made my stay in the 414 all that is was!

Here's a brief itinerary:

Wednesday: Arrive
Thursday: Visit Pettit National Ice Center
Friday: Open so far...
Saturday: Bucks Vs. 76ers at Bradley Center
Sunday: Blackhawks Vs. Lightning in Chicago!
Mpnday: Brewers Opening day at Miller Park!
Tuesday: Open so far...
Wednesday: Return home

Also Im sure there will be a game of Drunken Monopoly (I'm the 4-time defending champ!), probably a stop at Victors, watching Wrestlemania, hopefully some Johnny V's, a casino run, and lord knows what else...

So as you can see the NBA, NHL, and MLB all in 4 days is awesome... literally I can feel your "awe" from here. I look forward to these times to unwind, have some fun, and let loose. The winter stressed me out and although it's not quite spring I'm officially over the winter and this is the kick-off!

If you need me in VT wait until next Wednesday... until then I'll be running things in Wisconsin #TeamBringIt

The Madness of March & Milwaukee visit preview

I feel like this blog here is way overdue. There will be quick hits, FAQ's, and of course me bitching about life... cause those are the three staples that make this blog great... or awful depending on whether you read it. Although I bet if you didn't like it you wouldn't be here... so then yeah, the things that make it great!

I have to start by mentioning how weird this entire year has been for me. I'm going to spare you more of my moving back stuff and just focus on the time from calendar year 2011 to current. I've been seeing a therapist since December of last year to help me deal with a lot of stuff. To anyone who ever has considered talking to someone, I recommend it highly. There's nothing like getting unbiased opinions from a trained professional. Sure, advice and chatting with friends is great too, but I've gained so much knowledge about myself in the few months of sessions that have really helped me deal. I've also dealt with a few situations that I'm not use to dealing with, and I've handled them very poorly. Not something I'll discuss here on my blog, but decisions, actions, and non-actions I'm not proud of. Even though therapy is going well it's not a fix-all.

I mention the therapy because I used to use my blog as a form of it. A way to get out things on my mind. Somewhat healthy but also somewhat damaging. Lately my "less is more plan" has allowed me to simply check-in without dispelling everything in my head because I have another way to do that now. It's helped me get a solid view on things I probably deep down knew but didn't admit.

March Madness was fun as always but with the Men's hoop team losing the chance to host the America East Championship at home it took some of the buzz that was expected. A heartbreaking loss at Cleveland State a week later in the NIT officially ended their year. Of course the NCAA Tourney is still a reason for smiles and joyous times. A good tourney is only 1/3 of the way done so far and it's been a good one. Let's hope Duke doesn't ruin it again this year by winning it.

So basically let's get to the more fun parts of the blog:

FAQ's

Q: Are you looking forward to your trip to Milwaukee?

A: Does a fat kid love cake? Hell yes. I'm excited to go back to Wisconsin for many reasons; seeing friends, getting video footage for my movie, taking in Brewers Opening Day (3rd straight year!), other misc. area sporting events (Trip to Chicago is in the works for Blackhawks game, also watching Wrestlemania, and maybe a Bucks or Admirals game). However the thing I'm looking most forward to doing is being me in Wisconsin. I'm a much more confident, together, and financially stable dude now after a year away and I can't wait to mix-it-up in the 414! There's so much to be excited about that I might have to carry my bag in front of me when I land at the airport. (Guys will get that reference from their High School days)

Q: Would you ever move back to Milwaukee?

A: I get this one a lot and I always answer the same. I don't think so. I mean the thing I'd want to do there for work I already did and got fired from, so short of them coming to me with some sort of explanation/offer I'd say I'll not be moving back. Of course if you'd asked me about moving to Milwaukee in late 2007 I'd have given you the same small odds that I'd ever move there and look what happened. Bottom line is you never know where life is going to take you, but for now it only takes me back to Milwaukee for pleasure, not business.

Q: You always claim you want to move from Vermont. Where to then haas?

A: Although it's not always phrased that way I'm often asked where I'd like to go next. I'm not really sure but I'm thinking more south. I think I'm getting to the age where snow is just a pain, and not fun, so less of it would be cool. However I'll take myself wherever I think a good job, opportunity, or a fun time can be had. Somewhere I'll be doing things that make me happy. If you need some candidates I'd say the classics that have always been on my list like Washington D.C. or Baltimore area... maybe something out west to mix it up in an area I haven't been to, or the 'always been an option' of Orlando, Fla.

Q: (Warning: NHL Hockey question) What did you think about the hit by Zdeno Chara?

A: Chara's always been a thug. When you're that big, it happens. The guy is a great defender, but sadly is a Bruin. He simply took his frustrations of playing in an awful city with the worst uniforms and colors in the league out on a man he's jealous of for playing in the best hockey city in the world, Montreal. The two had history and I think that blurs what was otherwise a hit a lot of other people would do. If Max had bounced right back up it would be a dead issue. Since he fractured parts of his spine... it got out of hand. However I don't care what happens to Chara because as mentioned he's a Bruin (Also See: Pich' dislike of UVM Alum Tim Thomas).

Q: When will you start updating your site again?

A: Soon... I dabble on it now. I try to use time on the computer to dedicate to the Pich' Awards. I have trouble getting the steam going to get far with them though. They are my #1 computer priority. Hopefully after my Milwaukee journey they can be unleashed to the public.

There are other questions I'm asked frequently but they pertain to what I mentioned above that I care to not discuss. So with that moving forward lets discuss the 'Piche' name.

I met a gal that plays ice hockey for the University of North Dakota named Francie Piche. She later friend requested me on Facebook and I've been opened to a whole new clan of Piche's in the Grand Forks, ND region. I hope to eventually have a spot on my website dedicated to all Piche's of note... stay tuned.

Let's get to quick hits!

- I'm loving Costco more and more each visit. Not only do I get large amounts of products I need but I also earn 2% back on everything. From the low prices to Monster Energy in bulk, from excellent food to electronics deals... well played Costco. Our old hatchet has been buried... keep on keeping on.

- FUN FACT courtesy Justin St. Louis, in the city of Burlington, Vermont if 6 or more girls are living together in one place it's considered a burlesque house or a brothel. Do some research if you want more about it... I'm not a machine.

- When faced to choose between Milky Way or Snickers... I always go Milky Way. Superb galaxy and better candy bar.

- 3 new shows I like that I'm watching that I fear won't see a second season, or maybe even finish their 1st: 1) The Cape (NBC) 2) The Event (NBC) 3) Traffic Light (Fox)

- Chicken Parmesan ravioli is good... put some in your mouth.

- I've been playing MLB 11 The Show a lot lately and it's good to play as the Nationals and not have to make a ton of trades and free agent signings to make them good. As predicted over a year ago this is the year I said the Nationals would make it to the World Series and I'm standing by that claim. Getting back to the game it's awesome. I even added sounds with my microphone so when the crowd cheers they are player specific or just hilarious. Justin helped me lay down my favorite cut in ode to the kid at Centennial Field during Lake Monster game who yells, "Ice Cream Cookie Thing." It's a fun and challenging game as I'm about 20 games in to the season and barely over .500

- Coming up in May I'll be heading down to Dover for the NASCAR race. I haven't been for 3 years now but I look forward to the pageantry and fun associated with the weekend. I meet up with Carl and his uncle-in-law, Terry for a good time. Sure I don't like NASCAR anymore, but it's a fun time. I used to go at least every other year but with the Milwaukee odyssey I took time away. I'm also planning to hit at least one Nationals game the week after as Terry lives in the D.C. area of Maryland. Haven't seen the new stadium and I look forward to this trip greatly!

- I can't wait for softball season!

- This blog will end now, and is in memory of Ron Piche. He passed away from a battle with cancer on Feb. 3rd. He was a professional baseball player who pitched in the major leagues from 1960–66. He played for the Milwaukee Braves, California Angels and St. Louis Cardinals. He later worked for the Montreal Expos in the front offices. Although I never met Ron I always felt a connection to him. Especially because I grew up a Cardinals fan, lived in Milwaukee, later became and Expos fan, and my grandfather named Ron Fontaine also played baseball back in the day. I have collected his cards, and will forever be a fan. RIP Ronald Jacques Piché (May 22, 1935 – February 3, 2011)