Why I love Michigan

Many people ask me why I set most of my books in the state of Michigan. The answer is quite simple really, it's because I love this State. Some of my best childhood memories are going to Joe Louis to see the Wings play. Traveling with my parents to the Silverdome to see a Lions game. Or waking up early every Thanksgiving to watch the parade. No, not the Macy one, but the one in Detroit.

Over the past few years it's broken my heart to see my beloved state deteriorate the way it has. The foreclosure rate is at an all-time high, while the employment rate is at an all-time low. Since my old day job was at a bank, I got to see all this from the front lines, too. I had to watch as some of my favorite customers were forced to move away, just so they could find a good job.

Still, I never gave up on Michigan or Detroit. Why? Because we're a state of fighters. The perpetual underdogs if you will. So, I know that we will come out on top of all this. Some of you may have already seen the now famous Chrysler commercial during the Super Bowl. If not, it's at the bottom of this message. I dare you to watch it and not get chills.

Let's Go Red Wings!

You all know I love hockey like a fat kid loves candy, so you can imagine my excitement that tonight was the  Wings season-opening game. As I'm writing this they're creaming the Ducks 4-0 with 8:40 left in the first period. *crosses fingers* To commemorate this event, I scoured the net to find three great Wing videos to share with you.

First off I'll give you some yummy Red Wing Cookies.



Next a little funny.



Finally, some highlights from last season. (This one has some great Cookie moments, too.)

I Think I'm In Love!

As many of you already know, I love the Red Wings like a fat kid loves candy. My favorite part this season has been the Wing's new starting goaltender, Jimmy Howard. Not only is he cute, but he actually manages to make a pair of goalie pads look sexy! Here are his stats from the Red Wings Official Site:

Number: 35

Height: 6' 0"
Weight: 210
Catches: Left
Born: Mar 26, 1984 (Age 26)
Birthplace: Syracuse, NY, United States

Drafted: DET / 2003 NHL Entry Draft
Round: 2nd (64th overall)





Need more convincing? I think these pics more than speak for themselves.

Even without his face mask, he still makes an awesome kick save!
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

                              

             With a goalie this hot, it's a wonder the ice doesn't melt.