Derek Jeter, Thank You…Enough Said

Hello readers! It's fall and as the leaves turn brown and we bid farewell to the lust and love that was summer, we also bid farewell to a staple... an icon…a renowned figure. Tonight, September 25, 2014 marked the final appearance of my friend, and yours too, Derek Jeter in New York Yankee pinstripes. Effective as of Monday morning, Derek Jeter's tenure as a New York Yankee will be up and frankly, selfishly and childishly speaking, I don't want him to go.

As I've mentioned on numerous occasions, Derek Jeter is synonymous with the positivity that is my childhood. Growing up in the Bronx, I was fortunate to be able to use the eclectic and diverse surroundings to aid in my teachings outside of the classroom. Luckily enough, those surroundings included the famed Yankee Stadium. When you think of the Bronx and "splendor", there are four things that come to mind: The Bronx Zoo, The Botanical Garden, The Bronx Museum of the Arts and Yankee Stadium. If you were to poll people on where they've spent the majority of their time, it would be the latter. Now, don't get me wrong, these four institutions are credited with transforming the youth of the Bronx in various ways BUT, it is Yankee Stadium where the magic happens. For me, that magic was felt in 1995 when a wide-eyed/keen/observant/determined/hungry and all around pleasant lad by the name of Derek Jeter entered into the league. I thought another player had entered into the fray that was the professional arena but little did I know, Derek Jeter would have a profound effect one me.

At 7 years old, the concept of a "crush" was out of my reach and while I could not formally articulate my feelings with a concrete definition, I knew I liked that kid! Over the course of my aging, my affinity grew far beyond his smile to admiring things such as his tenacity for success, work ethic towards accomplishing a task at hand, his poise and his respect for the profession he chose and the people who shared the field with him. Ok, ok, so his baby blue eyes and freckles are a plus and his physique is a bonus but, let's not make this NSFW lol. Let's just say, there are a multitude of things to admire and to pick just one does this post minimal justice.

As I began to truly understand what my feelings were for Derek Jeter, I could not wait to share them with the world and during my adolescent years, I ran my affection into the ground! Whether it was spending my formidable high school years compiling a detailed scrapbook, acquiring apparel and/or spending waking moments at Yankee Stadium, every experience had a story and I made sure it was told. Heads up, I will recount these tales for years to come.

Matriculating to college and beyond, my love for Derek never faltered. Through the additions and subtractions of players from all realms on my "Favorites" list, Derek's spot was never usurped. No awe-inspiring/record breaking play could have made me demote Derek Jeter. Perhaps it was my bias or my stubbornness to change but Derek could never be replaced.

So, how do I end this folklore? Do I conclude with a good bye? I don't know. I know I'm not prepared to say good bye so I won't. I'll thank you, Derek Jeter, for providing this girl with memories many can only dream of. Thank you, for 19 years of laughs, tears, heated debates with fanatics of other teams and enough t-shirts to clothe my family 2x over. I've been listening to Sam Smith a lot and Derek, I'll be selfish one last time and say, why don't stay with me because you're all I need. Come on darling, stay with me…

XOXO,
Whitney

40 And Fabulous! Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

Hello readers! How has the long awaited summer been treating you thus far? Already fed up with the fluctuating heat and threats of thunderstorms? I hope not, because the best of this season is yet to come! Now that we've exchanged pleasantries, let's get into the post. Today, June 26, 2014, marks the 40th birthday of a icon, a legend, a captain at the helm and a storied hero…DEREK SANDERSON JETER! 

Always in reflective mode, it is difficult to grasp the idea that I was first introduced to Derek roughly 19 years ago. I was 7 and he was the wide-eyed, ever eager 21 year old starting SS for the New York Yankees. As I have always reiterated, through and through, time and time again, on multiple occasions, I was quickly enamored with Derek and have been ever since. He is without a doubt one of the most charismatic figures in sports and I cannot wait to see his post baseball endeavors soar to new heights!

Once again, Happy Birthday, Derek  and I wish you nothing but continued success and greatness as you enter your 40's. If orange is the new black, then 40 is the new age of thinking. The 40's are a decade of enlightenment and boy oh boy, are we fans certainly in for a delicious treat!

P.S. because no birthday greeting is complete without a reminder of the eye candy that has been bestowed upon us, here are a few pictures to keep you occupied:

XOXO,

Whitney

Derek Jeter Memories Light The Corners Of My Mind

Hello readers. As my fingers begin to type, I find myself at a loss for words because my emotions are well at work. I am trying to compose myself but as updated information crosses my path, all I want to do is curl up in a ball, stop time and watch past highlights. You all may be wondering, "What's going on?! Why is she about to have a breakdown?!" and well here's why: this afternoon, Derek Jeter announced that 2014 will be his last season in pinstripes. Yes, Derek Jeter has clued the world in on his impending retirement. It's the end of an era.

Due to me gathering my thoughts and taking in every bit of news available, I'll keep this post short. Also, I need to start purchasing as many home game available for the 2014 season. So, as I go, I'll leave you with Derek's official statement on the matter. Hugs for us all!

XOXO,
Whitney

39 & Getting Better With Time! Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter :)

HELLO READERS! It has been far too long since I've written you. I apologize for my negligence for the Spring 2013 semester was quite a challenge for myself and my students. Ultimately, their needs won the tug-of-war. Now that things have cooled down a few degrees, I am devoting my time to my most loyal fans.  I'm back in the saddle and it wouldn't be a glorious meeting between us old friends if I didn't write about............. DEREK JETER!

Yes, our very own Derek Jeter has turned 39 and I must say he's advancing well. It's quite difficult to wrap my head around the fact that Derek made his major league debut 18 years ago. Let that sink in for a bit. Next, let's take a trip down memory lane and piece together exactly who we were and what we were doing 18 years ago. I've given it some thought and it's incredible to think that 18 years ago, I was approaching 7 years old and learning the game of baseball from my great-grandmother. I would sit still on the couch, watch the Yankees in amazement, and that's where I had my first real crush. It was Mr. Jeter. 18 years later, I'm still head over heels for that Yankee.

Although Derek is still rehabbing from his ankle injury, I hope he takes a moment to reflect and smile on another year of life. Derek, your fans love and adore you and we cannot wait for you to take the field again. Readers, wouldn't it be divine if he actually played tomorrow as a gift to us?! Ahh, a fangirl can only dream :)

Once again, Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

P.S., I couldn't leave my fans hanging just like that so, here are a few photos to make you all giddy inside:

XOXO,
Whitney

38 & Looking Great :) Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

Hi readers! How have you all been enjoying the wonderful month of June thus far? If you live on the East Coast, you've survived the Summer Solstice & subsequent heatwave it brought and you're probably wishing for this month to end so we can get to July and celebrate Independence Day. Ok, who am I kidding, many of you are waiting for the 4th of July to celebrate a day off from employment. Frankly, I'm not mad at your reasons but, if you are rushing this month, STOP! The month of June can't end yet because it's a special day today that fills my heart with an indescribable amount of joy. If you know me, then you know why I'm writing this. Still need a hint? If so, just read the caps.....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEREK JETER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEREK JETER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEREK JETER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEREK JETER! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEREK JETER! HAPPY BIRTH....ok, you catch my drift. I'll stop now.

The captain of the New York Yankees turned 38 today and he doesn't look a day over 30. When I turn 38, I want the same smooth skin & lack of frown lines & wrinkles Jeter possesses. My love and admiration for Derek cannot be summed up in this one post so as I celebrate with him at Yankee Stadium later on today, I'll leave a little something for the ladies. Men, I know you like him too but this one is for us gals:

Hope you enjoyed that :)

XOXO,

Whitney

Derek Jeter's 5 Year Plan Doesn't Work With Minka

This post is for all the men and women who I shall break down into three categories: the haters, the supporters, and those who just didn't care. You'll find out which category you belong to as we get in depth with this post. Sources have confirmed that Derek Jeter and Minka Kelly have ended their 3 year relationship(they were together since May 2008). While no specific reasons were mentioned, it has been deduced to the fact that they both have increasingly hectic work schedules.

It's not in my nature to lie to you readers so I will proudly admit that I've spent some time being the ultimate hater offering very little support. Many of us women have been in love with Derek for YEARS and because women are known to be territorial, the minute we hear that a new woman has come into his life, we're ready to put on those boxing gloves and give her the beating of a lifetime. I was one of those women and couldn't find a nice thing to say about Minka. Men, I know you too harbored a bit of jealousy towards Derek when it first reported that he was blessed to be dating Minka. So, how do I feel about the split? You'll see.

As a person who is compassionate, mindful of the situation, and have been through a break up, I know that this is a difficult time for both parties involved although their split was amicable. Likewise, it does me no good to sit and stew in hatred over a woman who doesn't know I exist nor will probably never know who I am. Ladies & gentlemen, I'm talking to you as well. Don't spend your time gloating on this break up, it blocks your blessings and it reveals an ugly side of you.

To my supporters of this relationship since day 1, continue to project your hopes and optimism towards a reunion and never lose that fighting spirit even if this split is forever. To those who could have cared less, keep moving forward in your lives and treat this news as you would any other piece.

I wish Derek and Minka nothing but the best as they progress and grow older. May they both find love and happiness and never give up on love. Also, may we haters find a happy medium when our favorite stars decide to settle down with people who aren't us.

XOXO,
Whitney

3,000 Ways Derek Jeter Can Make You Smile!

As I sit here to begin to write this post, I have to stop and breathe because the more I write to the point of this piece, my body begins to shake because it cannot contain the happiness and euphoria I feel inside. Every word leaves me close to hospitalization so before 911 has to carry me out on a stretcher, I will come out and say HAPPY 3000TH HIT DEREK JETER!

Yes, Derek Sanderson Jeter, face of New York/New York Yankees, husband to millions of women, myself included, son/brother/loyal best friend/boyfriend/professional/downright amazing man hit his 3000th hit today at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees have been his everything for the past 17 years and although it seemed as if this beautiful marriage almost saw a divorce during the off season, the love and admiration exhibited on both ends is something to be appreciated. I know I may be rambling but I'm too enamored to write coherently. I'm too in awe to think, I just want to grab Derek, squeeze him tight and never let this moment go. But, because I love my readers, I will stay on course.

As if the day wasn't already etched in greatness because of the 3000th hit, Derek continued this wonderful day by going an impressive 5 for 5 and almost hitting for the cycle. Once again, you read right. Derek garnered two singles(one being the game winning single), a double, and a home run. Talk about seizing the day! Derek's last single in the 8th would give the Yankees a 5-4 lead and sealed the deal for a victory.

Another monumental moment was when Yankees fan Christian Lopez caught the 3000th hit which was a home run, on his birthday might I add, and in true altruistic fashion didn't negotiate/haggle with the Yankees or Derek but in fact graciously returned the ball back to the captain. As reward for his humble nature, he was treated to Championship Suite tickets for the remainder of the season up to an including the World Series as well as other amenities. It pays to not block your blessings kids.

Wherever Derek is and whatever he's doing, I hope he takes a moment to stare out into the abyss, place his hands on his hips, and say "Holy shit....I did it. I, mothereffing Derek Jeter have 3003 hits. Damn I've got it going on". While hey may or may not use expletives and be completely self centered, he will revel in this moment. If that doesn't work, he can recite the chorus from Nicki Minaj's "Moment For Life", "I wish that I can have this moment for life...for life...for life...cause in the moment I just feel so alive...alive..." Congratulations Derek!

XOXO,
Whitney

And The Yankees Let Out A Collective "Phew! Ok, We're Still In It"

I remember waking up today and thinking, "I have so much to do and where to begin?" When you get a day off, the extra free time should be spent on doing things that are productive. So, what did I do today? I stayed in my bed, curled up, and pushing down nerves because today was Game 5 Do or Die for the New York Yankees. How did we do? Read on and you'll see.

I am proud to announce that the Yankee bats hopped up out of bed, turned their swag on and led us to a 7-2 victory over the Texas Rangers. By doing this, they allowed CC Sabathia to be dominant and efficient in holding Texas to nearly nothing.  Our backs were against the wall and honey we mauled our way out of obscurity. I remember tweeting last night that "The Rangers were guests in our home and they left with the silverware, china, and furniture" so going into today's game, I kept thinking: what else are you going to allow them to take? I'm glad the Yankees noticed the missing items and retrieved what was theirs. A special thanks to Derek Jeter, Nick Swisher, Robinson Cano, Alex Rodriguez, and hell the rest of the lineup for COLLECTIVELY shining. I saw no individual efforts today and I couldn't be any happier.

The rest of the series has to be taken one day at time and while we're all pumped up for Game 6, we can't forget that everything is an uphill climb. I'm confident that these guys will be wearing the necessary shoes to take that climb on.

Now, to end this post it's only fitting that we honor "staying alive" in the series by playing the Bee Gees. Tweet/blog with you all on Friday!



XOXO,
Whitney

Texas to NY: We're Chuckin' Up Those Deuces

So, after last night's M-E-L-T-D-O-W-N against Cliff Lee and the Rangers, we fans collectively formed a circle and said a little prayer for Allan James Burnett. With one eye to the sky to God and one closed we all placed our eggs of faith into one basket and hoped for the best. What was the outcome? Well....if you were near alcohol, everything was "niccccceeeee". For the rest of us, we could of used an alcohol hero. No need for a recap...time to D-I-G in.

Allan James must of had that heart-to-heart he so much needed because when he pitched tonight, he grabbed EVERYONE'S attention. At one point, he looked at the camera and said "Fooled you all earlier in the season...didn't I?".  Allan had Texas at a stand still. Now, one would have thought with having your shaky pitcher back on the straight and narrow for a while would evoke some incentive to keep up the momentum and while Robinson Cano and Derek Jeter continue to answer the call, the rest of the hitters are under the notion that you don't have to work while on the job. On Twitter I would pull the "#seewhatIdidthere" but I'm being honest. Did the rest of you bother to show up? I'm pretty sure you all were mentally present in getting dressed and driving to the stadium and changing into your uniforms but as far as being present on the field, I questioned that. Although Burnett's mistake, grand to some, sheer bad luck to others, was the driving force for Texas' resurgence, he held the Yankees the best he could for 6 innings. So the questioning of mental awareness stands in my book.

As if the Yankees needed anymore bad news, Mark Teixeira pulled a hamstring and will be out for the rest of the season. My heart is slowly climbing out of my stomach with this news but as for the team, that should have been the spark to set things off. I know I'm going to receive criticism for bashing the hitters but I feel no one else is doing it. If ya'll think I've gone far enough, I haven't even started on the fans. It's about time we start.

Let me clear something up, just because you've paid $3,000 and better for your ticket that doesn't correlate with your fanhood...nor does it warrant your disrespectful behavior. Acting ignorant and belligerent to opposing players isn't cute. I am not impressed nor am I amused. Also, don't interfere with the game. If you see a ball approaching you, move out of the way. Step to the side the same way you would if you saw a poor person begging. Oh and the biggest criticism of them all, leaving before the game is done. Winning or not, you stay in your seats until the final out. The "trying to beat traffic and I have work in the AM" excuse does not fly with me. You knew what you were getting into when you purchased those tickets so spare me...literally spare me.

I want to end with a little words of wisdom for the NY Yankees: "Whether you think you can or you can't...you're right". Take this quote and internalize it. I wish you guys the best of luck in the next 3 games. I will not abandon you in your darkest hour. Loyalty is all I know.

XOXO,
Whitney

The Core Four...Loyalty Is All They Know

As I was scanning through the Daily News this morning, I came across this interesting piece entitled, Fab Four: How This Legendary Group Almost Never Got Together and I was compelled to write about this spectacular group of men and how we can all learn a little something about love and loyalty.

It's hard to believe that nearly 16 years ago, a young shortstop from Michigan, Derek Jeter, a pitcher from Texas, Andy Pettitte, a catcher from Puerto Rico, Jorge Posada, and a reliever from Panama, Mariano Rivera,  made their big league debuts. Skinny, wide-eyed, and hungry, figuratively and literally, these men scraped and scrapped for their success....success that has contributed to 5 World Series titles and nearly hundreds of millions in salaries. With all that could come with such monumental success, I think what should be reveled is the fact that they're still together. Although Andy left for 3 years, he's still much apart of that statement than anything else.

Free agency, greed, and big bucks go hand in hand and with anything in life, stability isn't always guaranteed. To have longevity in an organization such as the New York Yankees, I wonder what has been keeping them together besides great negotiations and lucrative contracts? Call it mushiness or call it realness, I believe love and loyalty, on all fronts, is what's been the glue to holding these guys together. In order to survive double digits on a team with the same people, you have to develop a mutual love and understanding for who that person is on the field and off the field. Likewise, you have to keep the phrase "throwing me/him under the bus" away from your organization and life at all times.

So, how does witnessing love and loyalty from a group of baseball players help bridge connectivity in our lives? The same practice of mutual understanding in a clubhouse is no different than in any house. You and I can exhibit the same quality in any situation no matter how big or small the issue. Secondly, as a big stickler for loyalty, I am a proponent of accountability and taking responsibility for your actions. Therefore, throwing someone under the bus shouldn't be your first or last resort, it shouldn't find it's way into your life. Learning to be loyal and trustworthy goes a long way. Trust me, there's nothing more desirable than a person who's loyal.  Loyalty is all I know.

As Wednesday approaches and the ALDS begins, I want to congratulate the Yankees, including the Core Four, on another successful season. This piece is for you. Also, congratulations to all the teams in who've made it to the postseason. This is sure to be something exciting.

XOXO,
Whitney

Top 10 Couples Who Should Reunite...

While I continue to wait for Alex to hit his 600th homerun I've decided to write a "Top 10" list of the couples who I feel should give their relationships a second chance. Remember, this is just an opinion so here goes:

10. Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee- A couple who have been through it all, a sex tape and 2 children, these two brought excitement to their union and this is what helped them break up, reunite, and break up again. I think they should give it another go around and try again. Good luck Pam and Tommy.

9. Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe- From their days in Cruel Intentions to marriage and 2 children later, Reese and Ryan called it quits shortly after she won her Best Actress Oscar for Walk The Line. Reese has moved on and continued to make movies while Ryan has been at a stand still. These two need to get back together to rekindle their young love and to keep Ryan afloat.

8. Justin and Britney- Remember when they showed up at the VMAs in 2000 and wore matching denim? Those were the days when they were in love and Britney had a grip on reality. They should reunite because Britney could definitely use a stable influence in her life and I'm not convinced that they've gotten over each other. Especially when Justin's mother publicly professed her love for Britney and not for his other girlfriends.

7. J.Lo and Diddy- This hip hop pair were all the rage in the late 90s early 2000s. J.Lo's impeccable talent and Diddy's knack for business was a plus for this talent and although she's moved on with the incredibly talented Marc Anthony, and I approve, in my mind they'll always be an item.

6. Bruce Willis and Demi Moore- 11 years of marriage,3 children, and 2 highly successful movie careers, it's a shame that these two got divorced. What gives them extra bonus points is that they've remained on amicable terms for the children and they're so loving towards each other. Demi and Bruce remarry please!

5. Brad and Jennifer- This blond pair were so chill and adorable. Brad's alleged infidelity with Angelina Jolie was the reason for their split and since then things have been pretty unstable for them. Although Brad and Angelina have 6 beautiful children and Jenn still has her career, things could be better for the two. Guys, I wish you the best of luck.

4. Mariah Carey and Derek Jeter- Now, this awesome twosome have acquired longevity in careers that many don't survive for more than 5 years, baseball and music. When they first dated in 1997, Mariah was 9 years into her illustrious career and Derek was 1 year into being NY's hottest baseball players. A deadly combo this was and increased media influence was the reason for their split. Derek and Mariah, you two are grown and need to give this another try.

3. A-Rod and Kate Hudson- The NY Yankee's talented mental case dated movie royalty for nearly a year and her relaxed, down to earth persona gave Alex the confidence needed to secure his 1st World Series win and NY loved him. But, being the media whore he is, Alex ditched Kate and has since moved on to Cameron Diaz. While I would love for Alex and ex-wife Cynthia Scurtis to give it another try for their 2 girls,  Kate and Alex are just as cute.

2. Kim Kardashian and Reggie Bush- The Saint and The Sinner caught all media attention 2 years ago and things only heightened when Reggie won his 1st Super Bowl title. After splitting, reuniting, and splitting again, Kim has since moved on and so has Reggie. I think they were uber hot together.

1. LeBron James and The Cleveland Cavaliers- LeBron is a born and raised Clevelanite and the Cavaliers was the first team to give him a shot. 7 years and nearly billions later, LeBron left Cleveland in a special entitled The Decision and boy has Cleveland retaliated. From nasty letters to fans burning his jersey, LeBron has felt the wrath of biting the hand that feeds him. I wish both parties nothing but the absolute best.

Well folks, there you have it! Stay tuned in the upcoming future for more "Top 10" lists during slow weeks in sports.

XOXO,
Whitney

Boss...This One Is For You

The Yankees played their first game at home since the All Star Game and the sudden death of George Steinbrenner. The team knew that their return to the Bronx would be filled with commemorative tributes to both Steinbrenner and Bob Sheppard thus; they didn't disappoint.

Mariano Rivera placed two roses on home plate one for Mr. Steinbrenner and one for Mr. Sheppard. Following this gesture came the speech by the captain Derek Jeter who poured his emotions into his farewell speech to the two men who had the greatest impact in his life. After a moving performance of the National Anthem, it was time for baseball.

The Rays came swinging early to take an early lead to 1-0. Then, after pouring on the muscle power, the Rays took a 3-1 lead. Just when it seemed as if the emotions of losing the boss would take over, Robinson Cano hit a solo shot to make the game 3-2. Right after that blast, Jorge Posada hit another solo shot to tie the game 3-3. The stadium was in an uproar.

However, the play of the night would come from Nick Swisher who hit hard into the upper deck to tie the game 4-4. Think the Yankees were trying to make the boss proud? Hold on for the final cap off of the night.

In the bottom of the night with 2 on, Derek Jeter came to plate and it would only be fitting for the captain, the man whose heart is torn into pieces, to win the game. Sadly, he struck out.  But, here's the kicker. George Steinbrenner was a native of Ohio and besides loving his family, he loved the Yankees and the Buckeyes. Now, Nick Swisher attended Ohio State and this sat well with Steinbrenner so can you guess who won the game?...NICK SWISHER! As an appropriate goodbye to "The Boss", Swisher hit a shot in the outfield as Granderson scored at home. Mr. Steinbrenner definitely oversaw tonight's victory. Yankees win 5-4.

Way to make George and Bob smile guys.

XOXO,
Whitney

R.I.P. Bob Sheppard

Bob Sheppard passed away this morning at the age of 99. It's only fitting that I write about him and his illustrious years in sports broadcasting.

Bob Sheppard began his career as a public address announcer in 1951 with the New York Yankees. Such a distinct and crisp voice would continue to illuminate Yankee Stadium until his retirement after the 2007 season. Along with being the "Voice of the Yankees", Sheppard would be the announcer for the New York Giants until his retirement in 2006.

The legacy of Mr. Sheppard has been forever immortalized in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, a plaque in Monument Park at Yankee Stadium, as well as cameos on Seinfeld, hit ESPN show, The Bronx is Burning, and numerous films such as Anger Management, For The Love of The Game, 61*, and The Scout.

To end, I think it would only be right to leave off with his ever-so-famous quotes that have been lodged in our brains and will continue to occupy a spot in our hearts forever:

"Good Evening, Welcome To Yankee Stadium"

"Now batting...The shortstop...No.2...Derek Jeter...No.2"

"Ladies and gentlemen...would you please rise...And now...please offer...a moment of silent prayer...for the service men and women...who are stationed around the globe...and especially remember...those who have lost their lives...defending our freedom...and our way of life"

R.I.P. Bob Sheppard.

XOXO,
Whitney