~ Coming Out Party ~

The boys played some inspired hockey this evening.  I missed the beginning of the game but it was apparent they had a fire under their butt.  They played Atlanta and had 3 goals in the first period.  They didn't even allow Atlanta a shot on net until midway through the period.  The second period proved to be more offense and even more defense as they scored 2 more goals.  At the end of two periods the score was 5-0 in favor of the boys.  Three goals with the mad advantage, one being down a man, and one even strength.  With less then 30 seconds left in the game they scored another for good measure. 

 

Ryan Miller was stellar in net.  Focused and intense.  He wasn't extremely busy in the beginning of the game, but sometimes I think that is worse.  Out of the groove so to speak, but he did excellent.  He recorded his fifth shutout and the boys in front of him did everything in their power to make sure of it.  Final score 6-0 :)

 

There is a personal side to the intensity and I almost wonder if it might be an explanation for the first two games.  Ryan has a logo and saying 'Matt Man' painted on the back of his helmet.  It was done for his young cousin who was ill with leukemia.  Matt Schoals was always on Ryan's mind and his helmet was always a reminder of his strength and courage.  He had been in remission but a recent bone marrow procedure led to graft-versus-host disease.  The family was told at the end of last week things were not good and there was nothing more then could do.  When the Sabres arrived back in to town on Saturday night after their second loss Ryan got in his car and drove straight to Michigan.  Matt passed away on Monday.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.  I have no doubt tonight's performance was for Matt Man.

 

 

The boys play again on Saturday and I will be at the game.  Seats 4 rows from the ice.  YEAH Baby!!  I spent a little more then I should have probably but I deserve it.  :)   Not sure if Ryan will be in net, but it doesn't matter.  He should be with his family.....  I have faith the boys will rally either way. 

 

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It's late and I'm tired so I will do a little update in this entry... My sister is still in hospital.   I didn't stop today as she had so many visitors and I didn't want to crowd her.  She needs rest.  They are pumping in heavy duty antibiotics and she still has the pain medication.  The Dr told her to use more of the pain med's so she can get some deep breaths to help clear the lung.  She will be seeing her cancer Dr tomorrow and hopefully a good plan will be put in place to help her.  Hoping also some time table will be given as to when she can come home.   Thank you again for all the good thoughts and prayers.  We all appreciate it.   I've been sharing your messages and she is so thankful and wanted me to let you know she appreciates it.  

 

I'm off to bed... hope everyone had a great day.  I for one am so happy tomorrow is Friday!  I haven't been to many journals and I'm sorry.  It's not that I don't want to I just run out of time.  Know I will be by soon. 

 

Hugs

~d

Tags: Buffalo Sabres, Matt Schoals, NHL