Lakers repeated as champions last year for my 30th birthday, now let’s see if they can go for that 3-peat. ;) Here are my predictions:
Western Conference-First Round
(1) San Antonio Spurs
Spurs win 4-2
(8) Memphis Grizzlies (glad to see them make the playoffs)
(4) OKC Thunder
Thunder win 4-3
(5) Denver Nuggets
(3) Dallas Mavericks
Blazers win 4-2 (Dallas will choke again in the first round)
(6) Portland Trailblazers
(2) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-1
(7) New Orleans Hornets
Eastern Conference- First Round
(1) Chicago Bulls
Bulls win 4-0
(8) Indiana Pacers
(4) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-2
(5)Atlanta Hawks
(3) Boston Celtics
Celtics win 4-3 (Knicks will be close to pull off an upset)
(6) New York Knicks
(2) Miami Heat
Heat win 4-1 (why couldn’t the Heat get the Knicks in round 1…lol)
(7) Philadelphia 76ers
Western Conference Semifinals
(1) San Antonio Spurs
Thunder win 4-2 (yes, I am making this prediction)
(4) OKC Thunder
(2) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(6) Portland Trailblazers
Eastern Conference Semifinals
(1) Chicago Bulls
Bulls win 4-1
(4)Orlando Magic
(2) Miami Heat
Celtics win 4-3 (Not this year Heat and LeBron. But Celtics need to be healthy and Shaq is the x-factor).
(3)Boston Celtics
Western Conference Finals
(2) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-3 (Thunder will get their time though; they are young)
(4)OKC Thunder
Eastern Conference Finals
(1) Chicago Bulls
Bulls win 4-2
(3)Boston Celtics
FINALS
Exactly 20 years later: Chicago Bulls vs. L.A. Lakers:
Champion: Lakers are a bipolar team and they won’t have the important home court advantage, but if they stay focused all playoffs and stay healthy, no one can beat this team and match with their size in a 7 game series. The Bulls and Derrick Rose are great, but will be too inexperienced to pull off their first championship in 13 years, first since the Jordan era. Therefore…
L.A. Lakers win series 4-2 and complete the 3-peat. Kobe gets his 6th ring while Coach Phil Jackson retires with his 12th ring and 4th 3-peat.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Thursday, April 15, 2010
2010 NBA Playoffs
It is that time already? Yup. NBA playoffs. Here are my predictions:
Western Conference-First Round
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(8) Oklahoma City Thunder
(4) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(5) Utah Jazz
(3) Phoenix Suns
Suns win 4-1 (Brandon Roy being out will hurt the Blazers)
(6) Portland Trailblazers
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Mavericks win 4-2
(7) San Antonio Spurs
Eastern Conference- First Round
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(8) Chicago Bulls
(4) Boston Celtics
Celtics win 4-3 (Dwayne Wade can win a game by himself though).
(5)Miami Heat
(3) Atlanta Hawks
Hawks win 4-2
(6)Milwaukee Bucks
(2) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-2
(7) Charlotte Bobcats
Western Conference Semifinals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(4) Denver Nuggets
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Mavericks win 4-3
(3)Phoenix Suns
Eastern Conference Semifinals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-3 (Though I wouldn’t be surprised if the Celtics pull out an upset)
(4)Boston Celtics
(2) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-2
(3)Atlanta Hawks
Western Conference Finals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-3
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Eastern Conference Finals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-3
(2)Orlando Magic
Now on to my NBA Finals prediction. I believe this could be the year we finally see a Kobe vs. LeBron championship round. Though people said that last year and the Cavs choked against Orlando. Now this entire prediction depends on the health of the Lakers. If they still have injuries and are not 100%, the hurdle may be too much to overcome. If the Lakers are healthy, and even without home court advantage, I believe the Lakers are a better overall team than the Cavaliers and will win the title again.
FINALS
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. L.A. Lakers:
Champion: L.A. Lakers win series 4-2 and repeat as champions.
Western Conference-First Round
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(8) Oklahoma City Thunder
(4) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(5) Utah Jazz
(3) Phoenix Suns
Suns win 4-1 (Brandon Roy being out will hurt the Blazers)
(6) Portland Trailblazers
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Mavericks win 4-2
(7) San Antonio Spurs
Eastern Conference- First Round
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(8) Chicago Bulls
(4) Boston Celtics
Celtics win 4-3 (Dwayne Wade can win a game by himself though).
(5)Miami Heat
(3) Atlanta Hawks
Hawks win 4-2
(6)Milwaukee Bucks
(2) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-2
(7) Charlotte Bobcats
Western Conference Semifinals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(4) Denver Nuggets
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Mavericks win 4-3
(3)Phoenix Suns
Eastern Conference Semifinals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-3 (Though I wouldn’t be surprised if the Celtics pull out an upset)
(4)Boston Celtics
(2) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-2
(3)Atlanta Hawks
Western Conference Finals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-3
(2) Dallas Mavericks
Eastern Conference Finals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-3
(2)Orlando Magic
Now on to my NBA Finals prediction. I believe this could be the year we finally see a Kobe vs. LeBron championship round. Though people said that last year and the Cavs choked against Orlando. Now this entire prediction depends on the health of the Lakers. If they still have injuries and are not 100%, the hurdle may be too much to overcome. If the Lakers are healthy, and even without home court advantage, I believe the Lakers are a better overall team than the Cavaliers and will win the title again.
FINALS
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. L.A. Lakers:
Champion: L.A. Lakers win series 4-2 and repeat as champions.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Looking Forward
Another decade has ended and a new one has begun. I remember the 80’s and 90’s, but I don’t even know what they called the recent one. All I know is that for many people, this past decade was filled with more tragedy than good events.
In the beginning of the decade we had the worst terrorist attack on U.S. land in history. 9/11 changed our lives forever and caused us to think about things differently. It also led to two wars and Americans feeling that they were never completely safe ever again. This past Christmas Day there was another attempted attack on an airline headed to Detroit. What does this say about airport security and the possibility of another attack similar to 9/11? Scares the crap out of me that’s for sure.
The 2004 deadly tsunami in the Indian Ocean and Hurricane Katrina in 2005 were also catastrophic events this past decade.
In January of 2001 we had a new president. Unfortunately, President George W. Bush was the main cause of the big problems of the decade, which resulted in the worst recession since the Great Depression. While the 90’s saw low unemployment and a big surplus, the next decade was the exact opposite with too many Americans losing their homes and jobs. I am also convinced that we would have gone to Iraq even if 9/11 did not occur. A war in Iraq was Bush’s game plan all along as soon as he took the oath of office. The only good thing to come out of his presidency was the capture and execution of Saddam Hussein. If Bush would have thought about the American people for once, the decade might have turned out completely different.
George W. Bush leaving office was one of the highlights for me in the decade. President Barack Obama, the first African-American president in history, was another highlight and emotional moment when he took the oath of office a year ago. People believed he was the change we needed to get back to what we had in the 90’s. I believed in him too although he was not my first choice as president. It is still too soon to tell if he will indeed succeed. People who want change to happen quickly need to remember that President Obama was brought into the White House with a deep, deep hole in our economy. So deep that I knew that it would not take just a year to fix.
One of the tragedies that profoundly affected me was the death of Michael Jackson, whom I adored since I was little. Let’s face it; there were way too many deaths in 2009 alone where we lost several icons. But the death of Michael was huge. You can compare it to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the death of Elvis where you ask, “Where were you when you heard the news?” It was a death where the world stood still and mourned this pop legend. Part of me will never get over his passing. If there is one positive thing that came out of that terrible day, June 25th, is I am a better person. Now I just want to continue Michael’s good work and give to the charities that he supported and try in other ways to make the world a better place. This is what Michael would have wanted. I do understand why good people go too soon though. God wants them up there with Him.
I am looking forward and moving on to 2010 now. I hope our economy improves and things become better for people. It is tough to see so many struggling. I also wish my friends and family much health, love and happiness. I wish the same for myself. I hope that people respect my decisions and choices in this New Year. It got to the point last year where I thought about cutting certain people out of my life because I did not feel they were emotionally supportive or did not respect me. But it is a new year and a new decade. May God bless you. L.O.V.E.
In the beginning of the decade we had the worst terrorist attack on U.S. land in history. 9/11 changed our lives forever and caused us to think about things differently. It also led to two wars and Americans feeling that they were never completely safe ever again. This past Christmas Day there was another attempted attack on an airline headed to Detroit. What does this say about airport security and the possibility of another attack similar to 9/11? Scares the crap out of me that’s for sure.
The 2004 deadly tsunami in the Indian Ocean and Hurricane Katrina in 2005 were also catastrophic events this past decade.
In January of 2001 we had a new president. Unfortunately, President George W. Bush was the main cause of the big problems of the decade, which resulted in the worst recession since the Great Depression. While the 90’s saw low unemployment and a big surplus, the next decade was the exact opposite with too many Americans losing their homes and jobs. I am also convinced that we would have gone to Iraq even if 9/11 did not occur. A war in Iraq was Bush’s game plan all along as soon as he took the oath of office. The only good thing to come out of his presidency was the capture and execution of Saddam Hussein. If Bush would have thought about the American people for once, the decade might have turned out completely different.
George W. Bush leaving office was one of the highlights for me in the decade. President Barack Obama, the first African-American president in history, was another highlight and emotional moment when he took the oath of office a year ago. People believed he was the change we needed to get back to what we had in the 90’s. I believed in him too although he was not my first choice as president. It is still too soon to tell if he will indeed succeed. People who want change to happen quickly need to remember that President Obama was brought into the White House with a deep, deep hole in our economy. So deep that I knew that it would not take just a year to fix.
One of the tragedies that profoundly affected me was the death of Michael Jackson, whom I adored since I was little. Let’s face it; there were way too many deaths in 2009 alone where we lost several icons. But the death of Michael was huge. You can compare it to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the death of Elvis where you ask, “Where were you when you heard the news?” It was a death where the world stood still and mourned this pop legend. Part of me will never get over his passing. If there is one positive thing that came out of that terrible day, June 25th, is I am a better person. Now I just want to continue Michael’s good work and give to the charities that he supported and try in other ways to make the world a better place. This is what Michael would have wanted. I do understand why good people go too soon though. God wants them up there with Him.
I am looking forward and moving on to 2010 now. I hope our economy improves and things become better for people. It is tough to see so many struggling. I also wish my friends and family much health, love and happiness. I wish the same for myself. I hope that people respect my decisions and choices in this New Year. It got to the point last year where I thought about cutting certain people out of my life because I did not feel they were emotionally supportive or did not respect me. But it is a new year and a new decade. May God bless you. L.O.V.E.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
"This Is It" (What Could Have Been)
Michael Jackson is back. He is on the big screen. For those who have been living under a rock and don’t know, Michael’s “This Is It” is a behind the scenes look at his preparations for his 50 London shows that were to take place at the O2 arena. Sadly, we all know the tragic ending that took place before Michael had the chance to mark his return to the stage.
As a die hard fan, I have seen the movie twice already. Yes, it is that amazing. It may have only been rehearsals, but Michael Jackson never missed a beat after being away so long from the stage. His voice is beautiful, his dancing mesmerizing, and most of all, the most down to earth, humble human being. Michael was the biggest star on the planet (still is) and, in my opinion, one of the few who had every right to have an ego. However, you do not see that. Whenever someone made a mistake or he wanted something to sound different, he would say, “That’s why we rehearse” or “I know you mean well….God bless you” or “With love.” He respected everyone around him and wanted his crew to have their moment as well.
The word genius also comes to mind when watching this movie. I do not use this word regarding many people, but I have to with Michael since it is a fact. Michael’s dance moves were genius in it self, but he also knew everything about every single one of his songs, including the notes. All of this is coming from a man who never had any formal dance or music training. However, his fans already knew this about their idol. We knew how special Michael Jackson was. Now, it looks like other people are finding that out also.
When watching this incredible man rehearse the classics like “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Smooth Criminal” (just to name a few) you forget that he is 50 years old. His back-up dancers who were half his age seemed in awe and inspired by this man showing them the ropes. His legendary dance steps will never get old in my opinion. “Billie Jean” was incredible! I cannot even put into words. I wish he would have done his full moonwalk, but everything about that man’s dance was flawless. After watching this movie, you will sit and think about the huge loss to the world we suffered back in June.
Honestly, I was nervous before I went to see this film. I was mostly thinking about what kind of emotions I would have during the movie. I knew that most of the film would show rehearsals from the last couple days he was alive. I also knew before going into the movie that when he rehearsed “Thriller,” that was his last night alive. While watching him move to his world famous zombie dance from the biggest selling album in history, I could not believe this man was gone from us just a short time later.
I surprised myself though. I did not cry during the movie. Sadness obviously came over me towards the end of the film, but I mostly smiled throughout this documentary. You could tell Michael was happy and that he was back doing what he loved the most: performing. The concert would have been one heck of a show. “Thriller” 3-D would have been amazing. He had so many ideas and was such a perfectionist. He wanted to make sure his fans had an unforgettable experience during what might have been his last tour. In regards to his work, everything that man did was for his fans. He knew he had the greatest fans in the world. We are….loyal to the end and beyond.
My wish is for the haters to go back in the caves they came out of after watching this film. The same haters who said Michael was not ready to come back to the stage, he was too old or unhealthy, or that he lost focus. The most hateful: That he was a raging drug addict. Seeing this film, there is no way! Do you know what I saw? He was ready to perform again, he danced like he was still in his 30’s and he looked sharp and focused. He was still in control.
I hope his 3 children, if they haven’t already, one day watch their father’s final piece of work. He also did the tour for them. He wanted them to finally see him perform and to understand what the fuss was all about. Furthermore, I wish his dancers and band were able to experience that first show and feel the adulation and screams from the audience. For anyone who really wants to know what Michael was all about, this movie is a must see.
I have to say, though, that the most difficult part was getting home after seeing “This Is It.” I realized that was Michael Jackson’s last piece of magic he created and the last time we would get to see him perform. What’s next? I thought about how much I wanted him back. I do want him back really bad. This is the reason why I went to see the movie again and might even see it one more time on the big screen. This is also the reason why I might wear out my DVD when it is released early next year. I want him back, and while watching this film, he is back to me. For 2 hours I had him back. However, no matter what, Michael Jackson is inside of me forever. Nothing will ever change that. I will always love him.
In the words of Michael Jackson: “It’s all about love, L.O.V.E.”
Note: For tickets go to: http://thisisit-movie.com/
As a die hard fan, I have seen the movie twice already. Yes, it is that amazing. It may have only been rehearsals, but Michael Jackson never missed a beat after being away so long from the stage. His voice is beautiful, his dancing mesmerizing, and most of all, the most down to earth, humble human being. Michael was the biggest star on the planet (still is) and, in my opinion, one of the few who had every right to have an ego. However, you do not see that. Whenever someone made a mistake or he wanted something to sound different, he would say, “That’s why we rehearse” or “I know you mean well….God bless you” or “With love.” He respected everyone around him and wanted his crew to have their moment as well.
The word genius also comes to mind when watching this movie. I do not use this word regarding many people, but I have to with Michael since it is a fact. Michael’s dance moves were genius in it self, but he also knew everything about every single one of his songs, including the notes. All of this is coming from a man who never had any formal dance or music training. However, his fans already knew this about their idol. We knew how special Michael Jackson was. Now, it looks like other people are finding that out also.
When watching this incredible man rehearse the classics like “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Smooth Criminal” (just to name a few) you forget that he is 50 years old. His back-up dancers who were half his age seemed in awe and inspired by this man showing them the ropes. His legendary dance steps will never get old in my opinion. “Billie Jean” was incredible! I cannot even put into words. I wish he would have done his full moonwalk, but everything about that man’s dance was flawless. After watching this movie, you will sit and think about the huge loss to the world we suffered back in June.
Honestly, I was nervous before I went to see this film. I was mostly thinking about what kind of emotions I would have during the movie. I knew that most of the film would show rehearsals from the last couple days he was alive. I also knew before going into the movie that when he rehearsed “Thriller,” that was his last night alive. While watching him move to his world famous zombie dance from the biggest selling album in history, I could not believe this man was gone from us just a short time later.
I surprised myself though. I did not cry during the movie. Sadness obviously came over me towards the end of the film, but I mostly smiled throughout this documentary. You could tell Michael was happy and that he was back doing what he loved the most: performing. The concert would have been one heck of a show. “Thriller” 3-D would have been amazing. He had so many ideas and was such a perfectionist. He wanted to make sure his fans had an unforgettable experience during what might have been his last tour. In regards to his work, everything that man did was for his fans. He knew he had the greatest fans in the world. We are….loyal to the end and beyond.
My wish is for the haters to go back in the caves they came out of after watching this film. The same haters who said Michael was not ready to come back to the stage, he was too old or unhealthy, or that he lost focus. The most hateful: That he was a raging drug addict. Seeing this film, there is no way! Do you know what I saw? He was ready to perform again, he danced like he was still in his 30’s and he looked sharp and focused. He was still in control.
I hope his 3 children, if they haven’t already, one day watch their father’s final piece of work. He also did the tour for them. He wanted them to finally see him perform and to understand what the fuss was all about. Furthermore, I wish his dancers and band were able to experience that first show and feel the adulation and screams from the audience. For anyone who really wants to know what Michael was all about, this movie is a must see.
I have to say, though, that the most difficult part was getting home after seeing “This Is It.” I realized that was Michael Jackson’s last piece of magic he created and the last time we would get to see him perform. What’s next? I thought about how much I wanted him back. I do want him back really bad. This is the reason why I went to see the movie again and might even see it one more time on the big screen. This is also the reason why I might wear out my DVD when it is released early next year. I want him back, and while watching this film, he is back to me. For 2 hours I had him back. However, no matter what, Michael Jackson is inside of me forever. Nothing will ever change that. I will always love him.
In the words of Michael Jackson: “It’s all about love, L.O.V.E.”
Note: For tickets go to: http://thisisit-movie.com/
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Day the Music Died
On June 25th my heart broke into a million pieces. The day the world lost the greatest entertainer to ever walk (or should I say Moonwalk) the face of the earth. When Michael Jackson died I was shocked and devastated. After hearing he had been rushed to the hospital, I figured he would get better and fight like he always had. Unfortunately, that was not to be the case this time. This is a blog I wish I never had to write.
Looking back, I thought this moment would come 4 years ago during his trial. He looked weak and extremely sad at times and I was not sure if he could survive the ordeal. However, Michael fought and made it through the nightmare. After that, I thought Michael could survive anything.
Michael Jackson has been a part of my life since I was 11-years-old and probably even younger. Though I never met him, Michael’s music always brought me comfort. His music brought me back up whenever I was sad or depressed. Not very many artists’ music can do that. Somehow Michael’s music and videos were always escapism from whatever crap I was dealing with, whether it was school, work or personal relationships. He was, to me, simply magic. That is why the day he died I felt like a part me died along with him. However, for some reason I did not shed a tear. I think pretty much numbness took over along with a loss of appetite. But no tears…..until his 11-year-old daughter spoke at his memorial and broke down into the arms of her Aunt Janet. If us fans feel this heart broken over Michael’s passing, then imagine how his three young children feel? His children are what make Michael’s death more painful. Knowing that he will not be able to see them grow up breaks my heart. But I am sure they will do him proud seeing how well he raised them.
Honestly, it was tough at times being a Michael Jackson fan, especially the last several years of his life. We had to constantly defend him against the haters. We were always calling out the media and trying to get people to read the facts first before judging someone. However, my loyalty never faltered. Yes, there were times when I would look at a picture of him and laugh to myself saying “What in the world does he have on?” But then I would say, “Well, that is the Michael we know and love.” By the way, I cannot name one musical genius who was not eccentric or did not beat to a different drum. However, the media continued to single Michael out and that could not have been easy for him. I will not, however, go into details on what or who I think caused his death. That is a totally different blog if I ever feel like writing it.
I truly hope people will remember Michael for his accomplishments rather than the scandals. He needs to be remembered for his music, songwriting greatness, dancing and the fact that he broke down barriers for African-Americans. He was the only artist I know of who had African-Americans, white, Asian and Hispanics dancing or crying along to his music at his concerts. I do truly believe that people are starting to remember Michael for his huge accomplishments, but I only wish he could be around to see and feel the love and adulation that has expanded these last few weeks. It is actually sad that people, now that he is gone, are supporting him again and finally remembering what an awesome performer he is. I call those bandwagon fans. Where was that love the last couple years of his life? That love could have saved him.
I mentioned his dancing above. I love to watch Michael Jackson dance. He was a dancing genius. I would look at his videos or concert footage in awe and wonder how in the heck he could do those moves. The lean in the “Smooth Criminal” performance was always my favorite. I wonder if he would have done that move in his comeback shows, which would have began the other night.
Looking back on my time as a fan, there are things that I regret. A few examples are not trying to purchase tickets for his 2002 American Bandstand performance in L.A. (turned out to be his last televised performance), I should have tried to get tickets to his 30th anniversary shows in New York (though part of me is glad since 9/11 occurred at that time) and I should have took time off of work one day and supported him at his trial like so many other fans around the world were doing. I did, though, visit Neverland in 2002 to drop off a book for his children. It was my favorite book as a child. I sure do hope he received it to give to them. I just wish I had the chance to tell Michael face to face how much he meant to me and that he knew I existed. I will just have to wait until I get to the other side to tell him.
I hope his children will do whatever they can to continue his legacy. I think he will be bigger in death than Elvis. Michael touched the lives of many more people than Elvis through his music and dance.
What I have to keep reminding myself is Michael is not really “gone.” His music will live on forever for generations to come. If I ever have children, they will know Michael Jackson and how he changed music forever. I just cannot believe I will be talking about him in the past tense. My husband and I were discussing this the other day. We are just lucky to have been able to be in the same world as him and witness his genius. People who have not been born yet will have to hear stories about him, but will not witness his genius like we did. We also feel like a part of our childhood is gone. I think anyone who grew up in the 80’s feels like this. At least in my lifetime, we will never see another Michael Jackson. Artists today can try to be at his level, but they will not succeed. Michael just raised the bar too high for that to happen.
So, rest in peace Michael Jackson. We will try our best to get along without you, but you will live in our hearts always. I know you are dancing with the Angels now, which will continue to give me comfort.
Looking back, I thought this moment would come 4 years ago during his trial. He looked weak and extremely sad at times and I was not sure if he could survive the ordeal. However, Michael fought and made it through the nightmare. After that, I thought Michael could survive anything.
Michael Jackson has been a part of my life since I was 11-years-old and probably even younger. Though I never met him, Michael’s music always brought me comfort. His music brought me back up whenever I was sad or depressed. Not very many artists’ music can do that. Somehow Michael’s music and videos were always escapism from whatever crap I was dealing with, whether it was school, work or personal relationships. He was, to me, simply magic. That is why the day he died I felt like a part me died along with him. However, for some reason I did not shed a tear. I think pretty much numbness took over along with a loss of appetite. But no tears…..until his 11-year-old daughter spoke at his memorial and broke down into the arms of her Aunt Janet. If us fans feel this heart broken over Michael’s passing, then imagine how his three young children feel? His children are what make Michael’s death more painful. Knowing that he will not be able to see them grow up breaks my heart. But I am sure they will do him proud seeing how well he raised them.
Honestly, it was tough at times being a Michael Jackson fan, especially the last several years of his life. We had to constantly defend him against the haters. We were always calling out the media and trying to get people to read the facts first before judging someone. However, my loyalty never faltered. Yes, there were times when I would look at a picture of him and laugh to myself saying “What in the world does he have on?” But then I would say, “Well, that is the Michael we know and love.” By the way, I cannot name one musical genius who was not eccentric or did not beat to a different drum. However, the media continued to single Michael out and that could not have been easy for him. I will not, however, go into details on what or who I think caused his death. That is a totally different blog if I ever feel like writing it.
I truly hope people will remember Michael for his accomplishments rather than the scandals. He needs to be remembered for his music, songwriting greatness, dancing and the fact that he broke down barriers for African-Americans. He was the only artist I know of who had African-Americans, white, Asian and Hispanics dancing or crying along to his music at his concerts. I do truly believe that people are starting to remember Michael for his huge accomplishments, but I only wish he could be around to see and feel the love and adulation that has expanded these last few weeks. It is actually sad that people, now that he is gone, are supporting him again and finally remembering what an awesome performer he is. I call those bandwagon fans. Where was that love the last couple years of his life? That love could have saved him.
I mentioned his dancing above. I love to watch Michael Jackson dance. He was a dancing genius. I would look at his videos or concert footage in awe and wonder how in the heck he could do those moves. The lean in the “Smooth Criminal” performance was always my favorite. I wonder if he would have done that move in his comeback shows, which would have began the other night.
Looking back on my time as a fan, there are things that I regret. A few examples are not trying to purchase tickets for his 2002 American Bandstand performance in L.A. (turned out to be his last televised performance), I should have tried to get tickets to his 30th anniversary shows in New York (though part of me is glad since 9/11 occurred at that time) and I should have took time off of work one day and supported him at his trial like so many other fans around the world were doing. I did, though, visit Neverland in 2002 to drop off a book for his children. It was my favorite book as a child. I sure do hope he received it to give to them. I just wish I had the chance to tell Michael face to face how much he meant to me and that he knew I existed. I will just have to wait until I get to the other side to tell him.
I hope his children will do whatever they can to continue his legacy. I think he will be bigger in death than Elvis. Michael touched the lives of many more people than Elvis through his music and dance.
What I have to keep reminding myself is Michael is not really “gone.” His music will live on forever for generations to come. If I ever have children, they will know Michael Jackson and how he changed music forever. I just cannot believe I will be talking about him in the past tense. My husband and I were discussing this the other day. We are just lucky to have been able to be in the same world as him and witness his genius. People who have not been born yet will have to hear stories about him, but will not witness his genius like we did. We also feel like a part of our childhood is gone. I think anyone who grew up in the 80’s feels like this. At least in my lifetime, we will never see another Michael Jackson. Artists today can try to be at his level, but they will not succeed. Michael just raised the bar too high for that to happen.
So, rest in peace Michael Jackson. We will try our best to get along without you, but you will live in our hearts always. I know you are dancing with the Angels now, which will continue to give me comfort.
Friday, April 17, 2009
2009 NBA Playoffs
The following are my 2009 NBA playoff predictions which begin this weekend:
Western Conference-First Round
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-1
(8) Utah Jazz
(4) Portland Trailblazers
Rockets win 4-2
(5) Houston Rockets
(3) San Antonio Spurs
Mavericks win 4-3
(6) Dallas Mavericks
(2) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(7) New Orleans Hornets
Eastern Conference- First Round
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(8) Detroit Pistons
(4)Atlanta Hawks
Heat wins 4-3
(5)Miami Heat
(3) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-0
(6)Philadelphia 76ers
(2) Boston Celtics
Celtics win 4-2
(7) Chicago Bulls
Western Conference Semifinals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-1
(5) Houston Rockets
(2) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(6)Dallas Mavericks
Eastern Conference Semifinals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(5)Miami Heat
(2) Boston Celtics
Magic wins 4-2 (this is depending on the health of Kevin Garnett)
(3) Orlando Magic
Western Conference Finals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(2) Denver Nuggets
Eastern Conference Finals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-2
(3) Orlando Magic
FINALS
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. L.A. Lakers:
Champion: L.A. Lakers win series 4-2
Western Conference-First Round
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-1
(8) Utah Jazz
(4) Portland Trailblazers
Rockets win 4-2
(5) Houston Rockets
(3) San Antonio Spurs
Mavericks win 4-3
(6) Dallas Mavericks
(2) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(7) New Orleans Hornets
Eastern Conference- First Round
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(8) Detroit Pistons
(4)Atlanta Hawks
Heat wins 4-3
(5)Miami Heat
(3) Orlando Magic
Magic wins 4-0
(6)Philadelphia 76ers
(2) Boston Celtics
Celtics win 4-2
(7) Chicago Bulls
Western Conference Semifinals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-1
(5) Houston Rockets
(2) Denver Nuggets
Nuggets win 4-2
(6)Dallas Mavericks
Eastern Conference Semifinals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-1
(5)Miami Heat
(2) Boston Celtics
Magic wins 4-2 (this is depending on the health of Kevin Garnett)
(3) Orlando Magic
Western Conference Finals
(1) L.A. Lakers
Lakers win 4-2
(2) Denver Nuggets
Eastern Conference Finals
(1) Cleveland Cavaliers
Cavaliers win 4-2
(3) Orlando Magic
FINALS
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. L.A. Lakers:
Champion: L.A. Lakers win series 4-2
Saturday, November 1, 2008
November 4th: Make a Positive Change
I wrote a blog a few months ago regarding the presidential election and the Democratic nomination, Barack Obama. After Hillary Clinton lost the Democratic primaries I was confused as to who I was going to vote for in this important election since I had my full support behind her. I was either going to vote for Obama or not vote at all. Well, I already sent a ballot in with my vote for Obama. Honestly, my decision to vote for him was in large part due to the selection of the vice presidential candidates and also how well he performed in his debates against John McCain. Then it became personal for me and my family and I knew the right thing to do was to vote for Barack Obama.
Now, I stated in the blog a few months back my reasons for why the selection of Joe Biden as Obama’s running mate was a smart choice. However, the choice of McCain’s running mate, Alaska governor Sarah Palin, confirmed for me the wrong choice for president would be John McCain. Choosing Sarah Palin might have sounded like a good idea at the time since she was a woman who could lure Clinton supporters over to the Republican side and she was young. Now, it has proven to be the opposite: a really dumb idea which people believe will cost McCain the election.
In interviews and speeches Palin has done since being announced McCain’s running mate, she has proven time and time again that she is not ready for the job. As a matter of fact, I am starting to wonder how she got elected governor of a small state like Alaska. In some of the questions presented to Palin I could have answered them better than her and I am just an average person who has no business running for political office. This is not sexism either, which is a term Republicans are throwing out there. This is about Palin not being ready for the job. Hillary Clinton was ready for the job.
I would be scared to death if McCain became President of the United States. My fears would be towards Palin. McCain is 72 years old and would be the oldest president elected. Hypothetically speaking, let’s say he wins on Tuesday and then goes for re-election in 2012 and wins a second term. He would be 80 years old by the time he gets out of office if he even makes it to that age. If I am not mistaken the life expectancy of males is the late 70’s nowadays. This leads me to my point: If McCain wins there is a very high chance that Sarah Palin would eventually be President of the United States. McCain does not even have to pass away for this to happen; he just has to become ill. I do not want to even imagine what our country would be like if Palin was running it.
Another reason to vote for Obama: Our economy is in a big mess right now; the worst since the Great Depression. I feel that Barack Obama is the right candidate to lift us out of the hole we are in. The main reason: he is going to fight for the middle-class and end the useless war we have been in for 5 years. McCain is not about fighting for middle-class families; he is about protecting the wealthy and big businesses. Pretty much the same as our current president. The same will just give us 4 more years of people losing their homes and jobs. Republicans do not care about people like me. The 3 greatest presidents we ever had happened to be Democrat who cared about struggling families: President Bill Clinton, President Kennedy and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Republicans are complaining that Obama will raise taxes. Yes, he will raise taxes on the people who make good money and who can afford to pay more taxes. He will give to the families and individuals who are struggling to make their mortgage payments, put food on the table and save for their children’s education. Why should he give a break to the rich?
So, if you want a president who will make a positive change for our country and who will fight for more jobs and for people who are in tough times right now, then the choice on November 4 should be simple.
Now, I stated in the blog a few months back my reasons for why the selection of Joe Biden as Obama’s running mate was a smart choice. However, the choice of McCain’s running mate, Alaska governor Sarah Palin, confirmed for me the wrong choice for president would be John McCain. Choosing Sarah Palin might have sounded like a good idea at the time since she was a woman who could lure Clinton supporters over to the Republican side and she was young. Now, it has proven to be the opposite: a really dumb idea which people believe will cost McCain the election.
In interviews and speeches Palin has done since being announced McCain’s running mate, she has proven time and time again that she is not ready for the job. As a matter of fact, I am starting to wonder how she got elected governor of a small state like Alaska. In some of the questions presented to Palin I could have answered them better than her and I am just an average person who has no business running for political office. This is not sexism either, which is a term Republicans are throwing out there. This is about Palin not being ready for the job. Hillary Clinton was ready for the job.
I would be scared to death if McCain became President of the United States. My fears would be towards Palin. McCain is 72 years old and would be the oldest president elected. Hypothetically speaking, let’s say he wins on Tuesday and then goes for re-election in 2012 and wins a second term. He would be 80 years old by the time he gets out of office if he even makes it to that age. If I am not mistaken the life expectancy of males is the late 70’s nowadays. This leads me to my point: If McCain wins there is a very high chance that Sarah Palin would eventually be President of the United States. McCain does not even have to pass away for this to happen; he just has to become ill. I do not want to even imagine what our country would be like if Palin was running it.
Another reason to vote for Obama: Our economy is in a big mess right now; the worst since the Great Depression. I feel that Barack Obama is the right candidate to lift us out of the hole we are in. The main reason: he is going to fight for the middle-class and end the useless war we have been in for 5 years. McCain is not about fighting for middle-class families; he is about protecting the wealthy and big businesses. Pretty much the same as our current president. The same will just give us 4 more years of people losing their homes and jobs. Republicans do not care about people like me. The 3 greatest presidents we ever had happened to be Democrat who cared about struggling families: President Bill Clinton, President Kennedy and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Republicans are complaining that Obama will raise taxes. Yes, he will raise taxes on the people who make good money and who can afford to pay more taxes. He will give to the families and individuals who are struggling to make their mortgage payments, put food on the table and save for their children’s education. Why should he give a break to the rich?
So, if you want a president who will make a positive change for our country and who will fight for more jobs and for people who are in tough times right now, then the choice on November 4 should be simple.
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