What Type of Drink Best Describes You - Austria Version

What Drink Are You? Austria Version

12-17-13 and 12-19-13

When studying abroad this semester, a question kept being asked, which was, "What drink best describes you?" A funny question, I decided I would make a blog on it. I had planned on doing it months ago, aka, during the semester, but that never happened. I guess this Christmas break will have to do! 

So without further ado - 

This is how it works – I choose a beverage I think someone is and then I explain it... If I want to.

Welp, here it goes:

Christiana Martinelli

Italian White Wine – I don't think an explanation is really necessary. But... I will anyway. Have you met Tina? She basically is just a little drop of Italy. It also helps that her lovely boyfriend, Joseph, is also a delightful Italian.

Mary Neihaus

Peach Wine – Mary and Tina are best friends, and so it only makes sense that they  would be similar drinks.   

Daniel Fay

 Corona with Lime – Racist? You decide. 

Michael Anderson
30 Rack of Keystone – Maybe a bit trashy, but lets be real, Anderson is always a good time! 

Michael Weber
Tequila – If you know Weber, and if you know what happens when you drink Tequila, this makes perfect sense.

Dennis Hoyer
Blue Moon – Dennis likes to live his life to the fullest, never taking a moment off. Blue Moon is a beer that is all about living life to the fullest. What an experience!

Tim Penney
Moon Shine – Tim was a tricky one but the way I see it is, does anyone really know what is in Moonshine? Does anyone fully understand Tim?

James Sweeney
Captain Morgan – Naturally Sweeney had to be a Pirate related drink and just like the Captain, James rocks a beard. Also, just as the Captain has his own boat that carries around his crew, James has his "Taxi Service" which is done with his white car.

Becca Radzinski
2L of Budget Wine – Becca enjoys her drinks, responsibility. She also enjoys her drinks, cheaply.

Chuy Lopez
Dos XX – This may or may not have to do with the fact Chuy is Mexican...

CJ Irvin
Sex on the Beach in a Micky Mouse Cup – Now this one might need a little bit of an explanation... But I can't really explain. Sorry! CJ understands why!

Patrick Manion
Blue Dolphin on the Rocks – As we all know, Patrick drinks one drink and one drink only – The Dolphin! He never seems to put it down, but with this drink, that is a good thing.

Olivia Cundiff
Champagne – Olivia is always willing to hangout and celebrate. Celebrate what? Life, if that is all that is going on! She is a very hospitable person and just like Champagne, she'll pop out and you know its celebration time! 

J-Rad
Raddler – Part Lemonade, Part Beer. J-rad – Part genius, part crazy.

Dominique Peters
Mike's Light – Dominique is not a big drinker, so that is why we use the Mike's light. She is also like a Mike's, very sweet and nice, with a little kick. Also, you can never have enough Mike's, and you can never have enough Domi!  She also dated a guy named Mike while in Austria ;)

Thomas Sabol
PBR – The cheap, college beer, PBR is sometimes referred to as “The Underrated Cheap Beer.” Thomas is not cheap, but he is definitely underrated, and worth getting to know.

D'Amico
Fermented Hawk Urine – Turns out that in the Mountains of Northern China, the most sacred and sought after drink is Fermented Hawk Urine, which they call “The Dive Bomb.” It is often misunderstood, and hard to get a hold of. This describes Mike, who is sometimes misunderstood and hard to figure out. At the same time, when one tries this drink, they are never disappointed. When you get to know Mike, you're never disappointed.

Mark Rainwater
Virgin Rum and Coke – Mark is always ready to just do something fun and crazy, and if you didn't know him, you might think he is on a sugar high. He isn't; he is just that fun! Don't drink too much Mark!

Rachel Roggensack
A little bit of this, and a little bit of that – Rachel is just so much fun, and I just decided one type of drink can't describe her. She really is friends with everyone, and with good reason. She is just so nice and easy to get along with.

Liz Cunningham

Coffee with Bailey's - We all know Elizabeth is a genius, and is headed to get her doctorate after school, so she will need some caffeine to keep her going. I assume she will find this source in a good cup or good couple of cups of coffee. Just remember when you become a doctor, to not forget about us little people!

Maggie Walker
Malibu and Coke – Margaret is not really a drinker, but if she does drink, she prefers Malibu. Just like Malibu, Maggie is super sweet.

Hannah Allman
Spiked Hot Chocolate – Hannah is one of the nicest girls I know, and she always knows how to make your day a little better, just by giving you that warm smile. She also gets cold easily, so Hot Choco makes sense. Both Hannah and Hot Choco know how to warm up someone's day.

Nicole Smith

SPAR Peach Wine – Lets face it, the girl loves her peach wine. So much that she bought it off of me earlier in the semester. If you ever want to do that again Nicole, just let me know!

Anne Marie Lata 

Long Island Ice Tea - This drink really is too perfect for Anne Marie. She is in love with tea, and can literally drink excessive amounts of it, but she is also from the state of New York. Also, just as a Long Island is a mix of a lot of stuff, Anne Marie is a bit of everything also.   

Annemarie Pankus

Jameson - Annemarie is one of those people who just loves having fun, and it is contagious. You find yourself wanting to have fun like she is. Jameson Whiskey is a fine drink and you can enjoy it for its taste but also can help with having a good time, if drank responsibly. All things in Moderation.

Amy Silvaroli

Amaretto straight - Amy enjoyed her Amaretto while in Austria, and she often just drank it straight. How is she like Amaretto? Well Amaretto has a lot of different things it mixes with, and Amy has a lot of different friends, from multiple friend groups. She gets along with pretty much everyone, just like Amaretto.

 

Dan Hass
Natural Light - Nothing more completely describes Dan Hass like Natural Light. Dan is classy, smart and interesting. Natural Light is classy, a smart drink, and filled with intrigue. You wouldn't find Dan at some trashy party or some ragger, just like you would never find Natural Light at either of those places. Dan is a man of the finer things, and Natural Light is one of those finer things. Michigan Fans drink Natural Light, while OSU fans drink Cobra's.

Colleen MurphyChurch Wine (Before it is Consecrated) - Colleen is easily one of the nicest and holiest girls I know, and so making her Church wine seemed like a no brainier.

Maura Kennedy
A dusty bottle of Glenfiddich Thirty Year Old Malt Whiskey, located on a bookshelf in a private library - This is Maura Kennedy we are talking about. She is one of the most interesting people I've ever met, and you know this fits her perfectly. She has adventurous written all over her, and though this bottle is found in a library, only the most adventurous people have a thirty year old bottle of Whiskey. Cheers to you Miss Kennedy.

Keri Landeche


Sazerac - Nothing says New Orleans like the famous cocktail, the Sazerac. It has actually been named the official cocktail of New Orleans, and we all know Keri loves her New Orleans. After you have a few Sazerac's, you'll find yourself laughing, and when your with Keri, someone is always laughing, even if it is normally just her.

Sarah Bueche
Fire Shots - The BuecherBasket is crazy, in the best way possible. Fire Shots are crazy, in the best way possible. Perfect match. The Bar literally lights shots on fire! ON FIRE!

Kolbe SpencerLiquor Cabinet - Maybe my favorite one of them all, Kolbe can't be described by one drink alone. He is always himself, but that doesn't mean you know what to expect from him. Pending on his mood, he might want to hangout with everyone, and just be the hoot of the party, and at other times, he might just want to hangout by himself and watch movies. It really just depends. He is a Liquor cabinet for sure, in how he acts and with what he drinks.

Beteil
Captain Morgan Tattoo - Beteil is one of those people who will not just drink anything. She needs the finer things, and that is where Captain Morgan Tattoo comes in. It is a fine drink and really describes her. Beteil is a pirate in how she is always looking for adventure, and she loves wearing the color black, as she should, because it looks so nice on her. Are there other connections? None that I can think of, but maybe you can!

Moira Delaney
A few Guinness's- Moira Delaney is as Irish as it gets, including the fact that she has been drinking since she was in diapers. Just kidding... Maybe? She is totally a Guinness, a true taste of Ireland!

Regina Monsour
A Manhattan - A Manhattan is a drink I've never had, but I hear it is good. I do know that the glass used for a Manhattan is a cocktail glass, which are tall and skinny, and Regina is definitely tall and skinny. Manhattan's pack a little punch, and Regina will surprise you. She is also a hard worker, and this is a drink for the working world.

Bernardo Gonzalez
A Margarita - Bernardo and Margarita's have multiple things in common but one very distinct thing - Girl's can't get enough of them. Margarita's are always being drank by girls, and Bernardo is always surrounded by girls. He can't help it - When you run a 10.66 in the 4x1, you are bound to have girls surrounding you. I'm just messing, Bernardo is not a tool, but girls do love his company, and go figure, Margarita's are a Hispanic drink, and Bernardo is Hispanic also!

Claire Fitzgerald 
Black Russian - A White Russian is a very girly drink, but a Black Russian is the opposite, being ranked as one of the most manly drinks out there. Well, Claire is a Big, Bad, Boy so it made perfect sense. When you get done punching people, chopping down trees, growing your beard out and drinking milk from the carton, take a second to appreciate how big and bad you really are!

Tori Mahon
Stella Artois - This is the most popular alcohol beverage in Britain, and it has the word Stella in it! This was a no-brainer for Torth.

Randi Yeager
Arizona Iced Tea with a shot of Jager - I couldn't get away from Randi's roots, with the whole Arizona thing, and Jager is great cause it is her last name. Randi will be out on a hike and all of a sudden, she will grab her flask and start mixing her alcohol with her Iced Tea. Perfect!

Madeline Eichman 
Mini Keg - Madeline is honestly one of my favorite people, and the biggest reason is because she is CRAZY! Just a real ball of energy, Madeline is just your average Mini Keg! Enjoy!

Sarah Clark
Multivitamin Juice - Sarah Clark is one of the nicest people ever and just a real sweetheart, so I couldn't even kid with her and make her some alcoholic beverage. She enjoys her juice and just as juice is innocent, so is Sarah.

Katie Danaher
Palinka aka Romanian Moonshine - You may or may not know this, but Katie went to Romania for 10 day break. While there, we were introduced to this drink called Palinka and Katie went to town... Want to party? Just invite Katie.

Jayne Gillam
Strawberry Daiquiri - A fun and tasty drink, Jayne is one of those girls who is really adventurous but is also just a sweetheart. I don't think I've ever heard a bad thing come out of her mouth or someone say something bad about her, and I don't think anyone has ever said anything bad about Strawberry Daiquiris.

Tim McNamera
 Sangria - T-Mac is Spanish. So are Sangria's. Enough said.

Regina Anderson
Screwdriver - Regina is literally a little ball of joy and always knows how to put a smile on someones face, which makes me think of the sun, the color orange, and screwdrivers!

Joey Pontarelli 
Red Wine - No need to say why, because we all know why.  Oh Tina!

Doug Crawford 
 Cotton Candy Smirnoff - I thought I would describe Doug with his favorite drink. Doug is just a nice little German guy.

Stephen Wilson
Bulmers Cider - "Yeah guys, I've only had four." "Who wants to drink mildew?" 

Luke Palguta 
Alcohol of any kind - Luke with his alcohol is like some people with there food, "I'll eat whatever you have," or in his case, "I'll drink whatever is available." God Bless Luke and his love of all things. What a man.

Well that is about it. If I forgot you, I apologize and if you want, I can add you to the list!
Hope you had a few laughs throughout.
God Bless!

"He died for me, so I will live for Him."

Art Pictures and Study Guide

ART PICTURES TO MEMORIZE

Early Renaissance

1. Expulsion from the Garden of Eden by Massaccio
Time and Location  -  1427, Brancacci Chapel, Santa Maria del Carmine, Florence

2. Birth of Venus by Botticelli

Time and Location - 1480, Uffizi

3. Duke and Duchess of Urbino by Piero Francesca

Time and Location - 1465, Florence

Roman Renaissance 

4. Creation of Man by Michelangelo
Time and Location - 1511, Vatican

5.  School of Athens by Raphael

Time and Location - 1510-1511, Vatican

Counter-Reformation Baroque 

6. Calling of St. Matthew 

Time and Location - 1597-98, Contarelli Chapel, Rome 

7. Ecstasy of St. Theresa of Avila

Time and Location - 1647-1652, Our Lady of Victory, Rome

Northern Renaissance and Bourgeois Baroque 

8. Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert and Jan van Eyck

Time and Location - 1432, Cathedral of St. Bavo, Ghent

9. The Milkmaid by Vermeer 

Time and Location - 1658 , Rijks Museum 

Counter- Reformation and Aristocratic Baroque 

10. Maids of Honor by Diego Velazquez 

Time and Location - 1656, Prado, Madrid

NeoClassicism and Romanticism 

11. Oath of the Horatii by Jacques Louis David 

Time and Location - 1784, Louvre

12. Liberty Leading the People by Eugene Delacroix

Time and Location - 1830, Louvre 

Impressionism 

13. Water Lily Pond by Monet 

Time and location - 1899, Paris

14. Basket of Apples by Cezanne

Time and Location - 1895, Art Institute of Chicago

15. Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh 

Time and Location - 1889, Museum of Modern Art, NYC

Modern Art

16. Les Demoiselles d'Avignon by Picasso

Time and Location - 1907, Museum of Modern Art, NYC

17. Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali 

Time and Location - 1931, MoMA, NYC 

Notes for Art

Italian Renaissance - 

Perspective - technique of making a 2-D plane appear 3-D

Linear - technique of making objects in the distance appear relatively smaller

Atmospheric - technique of making objects in the distance appear blurrier

Vanishing Point - point on the horizon at which parallel lines appear to converge

Foreshortening - technique in which figures seem to recede into the background 

1400-1600 Christian Humanism

1400-1500 Early Renaissance (Florentine)

1500-1520 High Renaissance (Roman)

Michelangelo, Raphael, de Vinci 

Rebirth in Classic Art, Philosophy, Literature 

Rise of the wealthy merchant class

Architecture - in relation to man 

Use of the circle and square 

Sculpture - more life like than gothic which is more life like than romanesque

Imitating the style of ancient Greek artists but using Greek Heros

Find the human body to be beautiful 

Painters - Michelangelo 1475-1564, de Vinci 1452 - 1519, Raphael 1483-1520

Northern Renaissance and Bourgeois Baroque

1400-1600

France, England, and Germany (North of the Alps)

Naturalism

Development of oil paint

Religious Strife

Bourgeois Baroque - 1600's 

Exploration and colonization 

increased wealth of Merchant class 

development in math, philo., and astronomy 

Painting types - 

Historical, landscapes, genre, still-life, groups

Paintings more realistic 

secular themes  with some biblical themes

composition much more complex

decorated homes of the rich 

Polyptych - a picture on four or more leaves or panels, usually connected with a hinge that can open or close

Triptych - like a polyptych, with three panels or leaves

Diptych - with two panels

Genre Scenes - paintings or sculptures of ordinary, everyday activities

corporation pictures - group portraits 

Counter Reformation Baroque - 

After the Council of Trent, called for reform, clarification of Doctrine and Disciplinary Reforms 

Directions for Art and Architecture - 

- Images should appeal to our senses and bring us to Prayer 

Catholic response to Protestant reformation

Exuberant style 

Obelisk - sign of continuity 

Deep Highlights for buildings during this time

Chiaroscuro - dramatic use of light and shade in a painting 

Aristocratic Baroque - 1500-1700's

Illusionistic techniques 

Triumph of the Cross

Splendor of the Monarchy 

Ornate, decorative, frivolous

Neoclassicism and Romanticism- 

Neo - embraces the ideals 

Rom - reacts against them

Secular Humanism - takes man how they are without God in the picture 

Neo - Mid 18th-19th Century 

strict adherence to the forms of art

Must follow rules

glorification of Rationalism

Rom - 

end of the 18th century 

breaks the rules 

freedom of form

Emphasis on color and expression

glorification of the sublime, passionate, violent or nature

Realism - 

mid 1800's 

reaction to neo and rom 

characterized by the idea of truth to nature and social realities 

Real means "material, or visible, world"

un-idealized scenes of modern life

Impressionism - 

1874-1886 and beyond

last phase of the style of Western Art introduced by Giotto

Casual style - idea of the snapshot

Sketchy brush strokes to capture atmosphere and effects of light

bright colors

painting outdoors

After Impressionism - less transient and less superficial

Modern Art 

Beginning of the 20th Century -

Covers many vastly different movements, artists and styles

Characterized by:

Break from tradition 

emphasis on novelty

glorification of avant-garde 

Avant-garde - 

Cubism - 

break down the form 

simplify into geometric shapes

re-assemble according to artist's idea and or multiple viewpoints

fauvism - savage-ism - freedom of color

Art Nouveau - New Art - secessionism 

new as in not like art of the past

Fantastic Art - inspired by fantasy

Abstract Art - painting without a concrete subject, no recognizable object 

Dada - no meaning - 1916-1922 - anti-art for anti-art's sake 

anti war, anarchy

Surrealism - merging the unconscious realm with the conscious, creating a surrealism heavily influenced by Freud's thinking emphasis on the irrational 

American Realists - artists who never embraced the modernist movement, but kept painting traditionally 

Abstract expressionism - abstract art that express artists feelings "Painting as an event"

Pop Art - Art that embraces the pop culture

contemporary - today 

Austria Part Two

Austria Part Two

11-03-13

Greetings Brothers and Sisters!

It has been over a month since my last blog, and I believe it is time to write part two. So much has happened since then!

Let us start with the traveling. In the Month of October and now November, I have been able to go on the Poland Pilgrimage, enjoy Octoberfest in Gaming, partake in the Romania Mission Trip for 10-Day break, visit Medjugorie and most recently, Interlaken, Switzerland.

First off, every single place I've gone to is different. Some of my trips have been very moving, while others have just been an all around good time. In this past month, I've definitely experienced more pilgrimage like weekends, and I would say it is for the better. If you've talked to me at all since I've been in Europe, you know that I've been working off of one mindset, which is, “do whatever calls you to love the most.” It has been a benchmark for me, all the while not always being easy. A good example of this was Poland.

The Poland Pilgrimage was a tough one for me to go on, one because of the cost, and two because of the expectations, but it proved to have some real worth. Would I suggest it as a must, as so many people told me before I came? Actually, not really, but that is not to say it was not good. I enjoyed the country, the different places of spirituality, and the general prices for goods/souvenirs, but it was not my favorite weekend. I had a tough time with certain things. I will say this though – It definitely called me to love, and for that, I was grateful.

The following weekend, I stayed back in Gaming. On Friday, October 4^th, we celebrated the Feast of St. Francis with a BBQ and on Saturday, The Kartause held an Octoberfest celebration, inside the school's grounds. I don't like Beer, but it was still fun. After that weekend, we had Midterms, and then when that was all done, I was off to Romania.

Romania Mission was quite an experience, and though it ended up being much different than I expected, I was still very appreciative of the opportunity to go. My team was able to go to multiple orphanages and hangout with the kids, and we were also able to see the Romanian Culture firsthand. It was a trip I'll never forget.

When I returned from my 10-day Mission Trip, I went right back to planning my next trip, this time choosing to go to Medjugorie. My trip to Medjugorie was my favorite of the semester, and I would say it was largely because of the hospitality I received along with the peace I experienced there. Medjugorie is a pilgrimage place, known for apparitions of Our Lady, which have been going on since 1981.

My following weekend, I was able to go to Switzerland with five of my closest guy friends, which was great. We ended up going to Interlaken and Gimmerwald, which are both in the Switzerland Alps. We went hiking while there, and finished the trip by stopping in Bern, Switzerland, to see their light show. We weren't really sure how the weekend would hold up, but it turned out to be really sweet.

This semester has been great, and I'm looking forward to the rest of it. Please pray for me, and know I'm praying for you! God Bless!

“He died for me, so I will live for Him.”  

The 2013-2014 NBA Season Predictions

NBA Predictions 

2013-2014 

10-27-13 and 11-05-13

The NBA Season is just days from kicking off. DAYS! Are you excited? I am! There is no professional sport I follow closer and I just can't wait to start watching games again.

Because the season is about to begin, I've decided to do my First Annual NBA Season Predictions. Will I be doing this season after season? I don't know, but I hope to!

Here we go! *(The Season is NOW underway)*

The 2013-2014 NBA Standings

The first thing I want to predict is the seeds, from the worst all the way up:

THE WORST OF THE WORST -

15. EAST - Philadelphia 76er's

Due to how the offseason went, it appears that the Philadelphia 76er's will be have the worst record in the East. With their first round draft pick, Noel, probably out for the season, and Evan Turner probably getting the most touches, Sixer basketball is going to be tough to watch. Many are predicting that they might contend for the worst record in league history. I don't think they'll be that bad, but I'd be surprised to see them go on any “winning streak” this season. They are going to be looking to the 2014 Draft, hoping to win the top lottery pick, which most are predicting will be Andrew Wiggins, the up and coming Kansas player.

Predicted Record: 14-68¹

15. WEST – Phoenix Suns

The West's worst is expected to do a little better than the Sixer's, but no one is expecting much from Phoenix. Plus they just traded their best player, they will also be looking to join the “Riggin's for Wiggins.”

Predicted Record: 19-63

2^nd Category:

WE SHOULD HAVE LOST A FEW MORE -

14. EAST – Boston Celtics

It is hard to think that the Celtics might be a bottom feeder out East, but if you've payed attention at all this offseason, you know the Celtics that we've come to know, no longer exist. With Doc Rivers, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett all in new places, along with Ray leaving the season before,² the teams best player, Rondo, is injured, and they don't have much going for them. Unless you like Kris Humphries, and then you are in luck! Kris Humphries! What a pickup!

Predicted Record: 20-62

14. WEST – Los Angles Lakers

Honestly, as long as Kobe remains in L.A., I hate picking against them, but after seeing how bad they were with Dwight, Pau and Kobe, I can't see them being good this season. Dwight is with Houston, and Kobe is coming off a pretty rough injury. Also, they signed Nick Young, who truly is just a shot friendly guard. If Kobe comes back healthy, they could scrape off a decent record, but I just don't see it. Expect them to be the second best team in L.A.³

Predicted Record: 25-57

13. EAST– Orlando Magic

It seems like years since Howard and the Magic were a top team in the East. It hasn't been that long actually, just 2010-2011, but I'm sure the fans there are still bitter. They will probably have more fun rooting against Houston then rooting for the Magic.

Predicted Record: 22-60

13. WEST – Utah Jazz

No Paul Milsapp, no Al Jefferson, no way that the Jazz finish with a good record. I could be wrong here, but I don't think Utah will be worth watching this year.

Predicted Record: 26-56

12. EAST – Charlotte Bobcats

The theme in the East the past few years has been mediocrity, minus a few teams, and I see this trend continuing, at least toward the bottom of the conference. The Bobcats added Al Jefferson this offseason, and will look better than last season, but expect much of the same. Kemba Walker showed flashes of brilliance, and Michael Kidd-Gilcrest should be better, but lack of defense should keep them towards the bottom. It also doesn't help that Michael Jordan is the owner.

Predicted Record: 28-54

12. WEST – Portland Trailblazers

Portland has some real talent in Damian Lillard and Lamarcus Aldridge, but I don't think they'll be doing much this season. If this team found themselves in the East, they would potentially make the playoffs, but the West is deep, and because of that, they will be on the outside looking in.

Predicted Record: 32-50

TEAMS ON THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN

11. EAST – Toronto Raptors

I feel bad for Canadian's. They have one NBA team, and they always seem to be in the same position, year in and year out. Never the worst in league, but not good enough for the playoffs either. This years team features some decent talent, with good bench depth, but the problem is their starting unit is filled with good role players as well. With no real stars, this team will continue to be a middle of the pack team.

Predicted Record: 33-49

11. WEST – Sacramento Kings⁴

The Sacramento Kings are finally, for the first time since C-Webb, moving in the right direction. With new ownership, a new coach in Mike Malone, a new Stadium coming next season, and a decent group of young players, they will only look to improve over the next few seasons. With that though, they have not made the step to the playoffs just yet. I expect Demarcus Cousins to improve this season, and the team to be better offensively, but they will be in the same spot as usual when the season comes to a close. Maybe they'll make the playoffs in 2015!

Predicted Record: 34-48

10. EAST – Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks are the typical sports team that is always decent but never really contends for a Championship. They make the playoffs but even their fans no nothing is going to come from it. This year though, I predict there will be some change! I am predicting the Hawks don't make the playoffs. Will this actually happen? It will depend on if Cleveland and Washington can play the way they should, but if they do, Atlanta should be on the outside looking in.⁵

Predicted Record: 35-47

10. WEST – Denver Nuggets

Everyone is predicting it, but if it happens, it will be unprecedented. The Denver Nuggets won 50 plus games last season, but most sports experts are expecting them to miss the playoffs. I agree, and the reasons being they lost George Karl, their coach, along with Andre Igudola and Galinarri is injured. Add all that together and it is a totally different team then the one they sported last season.

Predicted Record: 36-46

9. EAST - Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks finished with the eighth seed last season, and got swept 4-0. This season I think their fans wont have to suffer as much, because this time, they'll be on the outside looking in.

Predicted Record: 37-45

9. WEST – New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans made a few moves this offseason that I really liked, and I wouldn't be at all surprised to see them make the playoffs, but honestly, a lot of question marks, especially with health and team chemistry. Biggest question marks are Tyreke Evans and Anthony Davis.

Predicted Record: 44-38

PLAYOFFS BABY!!!

8. EAST – Cleveland Cavaliers

Mike Brown in back, Kyrie Irvin andAnderson Veraijau are healthy, Andrew Bynum will be suiting up at some point, the first pick in the 2013 draft, Anthony Bennett, will be making his debut, and the rest of the team is competent. Honestly, Cleveland has not looked this good since.... LeBron was wearing 23!⁶

Predicted Record: 43-39

8. WEST – Dallas Mavericks

Dirk Nowitski legacy has already been solidified because of his 2011 Finals performance, but since then, Dallas and Dirk haven't been all that good, especially last season. Dirk is healthy now though, and because of that, along with a few additions, they should make the playoffs.

Predicted Record: 46-36

7. EAST – New York Knicks

Last season, the Knicks exceeded expectations and finished with the second best record in the East. Most people are expecting regression, and I agree. The East is better this season and the Knicks are going to have a tough time playing defense. I wouldn't be surprised if the Knicks tried making some midseason trades.

Predicted Record: 45-37

7. WEST – Minnesota Timberwolves

For the third straight season, Minnesota is expected to make the playoffs, but only if they can stay healthy. With Kevin Love, Ricky Rubio and Petrovic, along with Kevin Martin, the T-Wolves boast a strong team, and could make for some exciting basketball. The key for them is staying healthy.

Predicted Record: 47-35

6. EAST – Detroit Pistons

With a new coach in Maurice Cheeks and some new talent, the Pistons finally seem ready to make it back to the playoffs. They spent some good money this offseason on both Brandon Jennings and Josh Smith, and if Andre Drummonds and Greg Monroe continue to improve, this team could be a tough opponent for anyone. If things are not going well though, expect a midseason trade, with Greg Monroe likely the guy to get moved.

Predicted Record: 46-36

6. WEST – Memphis Grizzlies

Memphis decided to switch coaches this season and added sharpshooter Mike Miller, but these two moves don't look like they will push Memphis higher in the standings. Regardless of the offense though, their defense will still be very good.

Predicted Record: 48-34

5. EAST – Washington Wizards

With the addition of Gortat, the Wizards have a chance to be good, especially if John Wall can continue to do what he did at the end of season. It has been a while since the Wizards were a good team, but this season they should make some strides.

Predicted Record: 48-34

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5. WEST – Los Angeles Clippers

The fifth seed might seem a bit low for the Clippers, but this seed isn't so much a knock on the Clippers, but instead a compliment to the teams ahead of them. There is a chance the Clippers could finish as high as the first seed, but I think this is a better spot for them. Chris Paul is a magician, and the additions of J.J. Redick and Doc Rivers will definitely help, but I think that Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan have hit their ceilings, and for that, they only get the fifth seed from me.

Predicted Record: 53-29

4. EAST – Indiana Pacers

The 2013 Playoffs seemed to have been the coming out party for the Pacers and Paul George. Brilliant team work almost got them to the Finals. Besides that, flashes of brilliance from Roy Hibbert, David West and George should excite fans in Indiana, along with having Danny Granger back.Even still, I expect regression from this team. The stingiest of Defenses, the Pacers still lack a good offensive flow and health questions still remain with Granger. The Pacers might be one of the best bets to beat Miami, but I still only expect an average regular season.

Predicted Record: 51-31

4. WEST – Houston Rockets

The Rockets made the biggest offseason addition, adding Dwight Howard. From the sounds of things, Dwight is looking more like his DPOY self, and less like the Los Angeles Lakers version. If this is true, and Dwight once again regains his form, the Rockets might finish with the best record out West, and might be the title favorites. With that, I'm not sold, and I think they will win a lot of games, but still struggle at times.

Predicted Record: 54-28

3. EAST – Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn might be sporting the most decorated starting five in the NBA, with All-Stars Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Deron Williams, and Joe Smith, along with Brooke Lopez, but with that, questions still remain about how good they will really be. If they can all mesh together, stay healthy and avoid Fr. Time, they will be contending for a title come May.

Predicted Record:

53-29

3. WEST – Golden State Warriors

Ahead of both the Rockets and the Clippers? Really? Simply put, yes. Marc Jackson has done a wonderful job in Golden State, by utilizing young talent and bringing in some good talent, with the most recent talent being Andre Igudola. The poor man's version of LeBron, Iggy gives the Warriors a defensive stopper, and if Steph Curry can healthy, they also will have a legitimate MVP canidate. I like the upside with this team.

Predicted Record: 55-27

2. EAST – Chicago Bulls

This is what we call the Derrick Rose effect. The Bulls struggled last year offensively, and found themselves relying way to much on sub par talent, but with Rose back, there is a buzz around this team. Everyone wants to see if the 2010 MVP⁷ can perform at this previous level, and maybe push the Bulls back to supremecy in the East. Where Rose goes, the Bulls go.

Predicted Record: 55-27

2. WEST – Oklahoma City Thunder

For the first time in years, doubts are circling around the Thunder. Justified or not, the Thunder are going to have to prove that they haven't fell off. Westbrooke is expected to be out till December, which could hurt, but the Thunder still have the second best player in the league, in Kevin Durant, and as long as he is on the court, I expect this team to continue winning a lot of games.

Predicted Record: 56-26

1. EAST – Miami Heat

Three letters made me chose Miami to finish first in the East – LBJ. As long as LeBron is doing his thing in Miami, the Heat are still the team to beat. Many are saying that the Heat will fall off from last year, but I am not so sure. I think they will be better than last year, and once again, D-Wade will prove he is still one of the best players in the league. And if Greg Oden or Michael Beasley give the Heat anything, look out.

Predicted Record: 62-20

1. WEST – San Antonio

New year, same Spurs. The San Antonio Spurs didn't really change there team from last season, and the fact that they were :05 seconds from winning a Championship is probably why. Every season, people expect the Spurs to fall off, but it never happens. Tim Duncan is as good as ever, and with the break out performances of Danny Green and Kawaii Leonard, this team looks destined to win a lot of games.

Predicted Record: 60-22

PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

Now that we have broke down the seeds, lets get to some playoff predicting:

We'll start with the West this time.

WEST -

#1 San Antonio Spurs versus #8 Dallas Mavericks

Two Texas powerhouses, these teams have a history against one another. A battle of two of the greatest bigs ever, this series would definitely be filled with some great moments, but I would expect the Spurs to push past the Mavericks.

Spurs in 5.

#2 OKC Thunder versus #7 Minnesota Timberwolves

KD versus K-Love. I would love to watch a series between two of the NBA's best. I think when at series end, the Thunder would be victorious, but thats not to say the T-Wolves wouldn't put up a fight.

Thunder in 6.

#3 GS Warriors versus #6 Memphis Grizzlies

Golden State's uptempo spread offense versus Memphis' stingy defense would make for a fun series, but when it comes down to it, all NBA fans are just hoping for another stellar playoff series from Steph Curry. I would say that Golden State would advance.

Warriors in 5.

#4 Houston Rockets versus #5 Los Angeles Clippers

If James Harden and Dwight Howard are meshing come the playoffs, the other teams will need to look out. That being said, neither team has much of a playoff resume. All the stars are ringless, but that shouldn't stop either side from competing. A very tight series, I think it would come down to a play here or a play there.

Clippers in 7.

EAST -

#1 Miami Heat versus #8 Cleveland Cavaliers

A dream come true for NBA owners and ESPN, how great would a series be between LeBron and his old team, and maybe future team. As much fun as ESPN would have building it up, I think LeBron and the Heat would make sure it was a short series.

Heat in 5.

#2 Chicago Bulls versus #7 New York Knicks

Is it possible for the Knicks to fall this far down? If it does happen like this, I don't think the Bulls would be happy about it. Regardless of how the Knicks season goes, they still have Carmelo Anthony, and he is one of the few players in the league who can single handedly take over a game. I would expect the Bulls to win, but it wouldn't be easy.

Bulls in 7.

#3 Brooklyn Nets versus #6 Detroit Pistons

Detroit and Brooklyn went out this offseason and made moves in hopes to be better, and contend. Brooklyn has the experience, but Detroit has the youth, and I think they could do favorably in this series, especially if Greg Monroe is still with them. I would actually predict the Pistons to win the series.

Pistons in 6.

#4 Indiana Pacers versus #5 Washington Wizards

The Pacers might not be the easiest team to watch, but they get the job done. The Wizards should be a fun team to watch this season, but once the playoffs begin, it is a totally different animal. If these two teams play versus one another, expect the Pacers to win.

Pacers in 5.

Round 2 of the Playoffs

WEST -

#1 San Antonio Spurs versus #5 Los Angeles Clippers

Both of these teams have wonderful point guards, and because of that, I could see this series being a real chess match. Both sides have wonderful offenses and world class coaches. In the end though, I think Greg Popevich and the Spurs would show their supremacy and win.

Spurs in 7.

#2 OKC Thunder versus # 3GS Warriors

In the past, Curry could have played Westbrook, but Golden State wouldn't have had someone to shut down Durant. Now though, Golden State has Andre Igudola, a defensive stopper. Because of the addition of Iggy, I think Golden State would win this series.

Warriors in 6.

EAST -

#1 Miami Heat versus #4 Pacers

For any real NBA fan, you want to see this series again. The Heat and Pacers gave us a great one last spring and this season wouldn't be any different. Paul George has only gotten better, and this years Pacers team has Danny Granger. With a better PG and a healthy Granger, this Pacers team could knock off the two time Champions. As long as Lebron James is in a Heat jersey though, I think the Heat win out. He is the Best for a reason.

Heat in 7.

#2 Chicago Bulls versus #6 Detroit Pistons

When this series begins, I think Derrick Rose will be on top of his game, and he will do well versus Detroit. I wouldn't be surprised to see either one of these teams win, but I will take the Bulls, based on their coaching and defense.

Bulls in 7.

Round 3 of the Playoffs

Western Conference Finals -

#1 San Antonio Spurs versus #3 Golden State Warriors

Every season people say that this is the last year for the Spurs, but every year, they seem to prove them wrong. Last season they were seconds away from winning the Finals. This season, I don't think they will have the chance. I think the Spurs have an incredible unit, but Steph Curry and Andre Igudola seemed primed to upset them.

Warriors in 6.

Eastern Conference Finals -

#1 Miami Heat versus #2 Chicago Bulls

If this playoff matchup ends up happening, expect fireworks. These two teams do not like one another, and I don't see that changing. Both teams have very particular styles of play, but when they clash, you can throw that out the window. The series would be a bruiser, and whoever plays better defense or makes the last second shot would end up winning. Once again though, as long as Miami has LeBron, I'm taking the Heat.

Heat in 6.

NBA FINALS

#1 Miami Heat versus #3 Golden State Warriors

If the Heat reach the Finals for a fourth year in a row, they will accomplish something that has not been done since the 1980's, when the Lakers did it. The Heat have Lebron James, the best player in the league, and he definitely gives them an advantage, but Golden State has Steph Curry and now Andre Igudola for defense. I think this series would actually come down to how the second options would play, and because of that, I would take the Heat. As long as D-Wade is your second option, you are in good luck.

Heat in 7.

UPDATE:

With the season underway, I feel like I may have really messed up the seeds. I think Indiana is better than I said, along with the Clippers, and the Wizards don't seem like a team that will finish #5 in the East, if they'll even make the playoffs. But guess what? I'm sticking with my predictions and come the spring, I look forward to looking stupid.

Now on to some bold predictions:

1. The Philadelphia 76er's will begin the season 3-0.⁸ Even with the 3-0 start, they'll still finish with the worst record in the NBA.
2. Chris Paul will have at least one 20 point – 20 assist game this season.
3. Dwayne Wade will drop 50 points in a game this season.
4. Steph Curry will break his own record for most three pointers in a season.
5. Kevin Durant will win the scoring title.
6. Kevin Love will win comeback player of the year.
7. At least two coaches will be fired during the regular season.
8. Kobe Bryant will drop 40 in his first game back.
9. He wont score 40 points in a single game the rest of the season.
10. LeBron James will compete in and win the NBA Dunk Contest.
11. This season will be incredible and unpredictable.

Lastly I want to give out my Season awards:

MVP - Lebron James

Other Candidates:

Kevin Love, Chris Paul and Kevin Durant.

DPOY – LeBron James

Other Candidates:

Dwight Howard, Joakim Noah

Comeback Player of the Year – Kevin Love

Other Candidates:

Danny Granger, Andrew Bynum

Coach of the Year – Doc Rivers

Other Candidates:

Greg Popovich, Jason Kidd

Well that is all I got for now. I might be blogging again about the season if I find the time. Thanks for reading!

God bless!

“He died for me, so I will live for him.”

1UPDATE: After starting 3-1, I am gonna need them to go 11-67. It is possible, right?

2Game 6 of the Finals. Vindicated. “Thank you Ray for leaving. Thank you.” LeBron James

3Imagine a season where both Boston and L.A. Finish at the bottom. It makes me smile, it really does.

4This pains me to place them so low, but I might have been too generous already. I will take solace though if they finish above the Lakers.

5Switched Josh Smith for Milsap – I like Smith better but Milsap was a bargain. We will see how it works out.

6Eighth seed. On purpose? Hmmm...

7Great story, but Rose didn't deserve the MVP. LeBron James should have won his third MVP in a row, which would mean he would have 5 now. It would be five in a row.

8Okay, I cheated. They actually did this already.