October 2014 - The Blonde Side

Texans Cheer Liz

Houston Texans Cheerleader Liz has boundless NRG

Houston Texans Cheerleader Liz has boundless NRG.

There may be a debate across the country (and especially in Texas) on who really is America’s Team, but there is no mistaking who has Houston’s heart when it comes to their sweethearts – that spot is reserved for the much revered for the 34-women who make up the Houston Texans Cheerleaders (HTC).

Third-year veteran and hometown Texas girl, Liz has more energy bottled inside her small frame than any Starbucks or Red Bull commercial could ever dream of capturing. Think of a gorgeous and gregarious Energizer bunny – but in knee-high boots, a Texans crop top and white booty shorts with a huge smile and big hair. Yup, that’s 23-year-old Liz and Houston fans are head-over-cowboy-boots in love with her.

Man Cave Daily digs deeper than her cheerleader profile goes – we already know her favorite color is orange and she’s a big fan of donuts, cheeseburgers and fries (thankfully her dance routines combined with CrossFit help balance that out), but check out a few more details on Liz in our exclusive interview…and then don’t forget to check out our entire gallery of her.

Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?

Liz: I pretty much grew up in the sticks of Rosenberg, TX. It’s a small town where everyone knows everyone outside of Sugar Land.

MCD: Occupation?

L: [laughing] I like to consider myself a “day maker”–Also known as a professional hairstylist (or a free therapist). I love my job. The relationships I get to build with my clients are indescribable. They trust me with pretty much anything and at the end of day making them feel beautiful is what I live for. I make people’s days!

MCD: Years on team?

L: I am living the dream as an HTC for my THIRD YEAR! I first auditioned when I was a senior in high school–unfortunately I didn’t make the team. However I’m glad I didn’t make it then–I was just a baby–I didn’t have the experience or the “swag” that the other girls had. I finally got serious, whipped myself into shape and auditioned in 2012, and I finally get to wear the infamous outfit as a third year veteran!

MCD: I’m pretty sure I speak for all of Houston that we’re glad you get to don that wonderful uniform! Are you in the calendar?

L: Yes! This is my second year to be featured in one of the NFL’s Hottest Cheerleader Calendar. I am Miss July 2015, and I am extremely blessed to say I am also one of the six calendar cover girls! (Which happens to be the very first Houston Texans Cheerleader Calendar to ever have six cover girls!)

MCD: Greatest memory so far?

Those Houston Texans Cheerleaders (HTC) are reason enough for Texans fans to cheer

L: That’s a tough one. I must say my rookie year is definitely a year to remember. My greatest memory was when our Texans won their second consecutive AFC South division title, and defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. Playoffs 2013 were incredible; HTC was on fire with all new dance routines. Not to mention, I was selected to dance on stage with Clay Walker for our Pregame Performance, which was a HUGE honor. I really didn’t know what it was like to lose a game since I cheered on a 12-4 season!

MCD: Unfortunately times have changed from that 12-4 record, but you ladies still rock it out each and every home game! Favorite player?

L: Andre Johnson or should I say Andre 13K! I have mad respect for Andre, his dedication and loyalty to our team is truly appreciated. He’s been through thick and thin but he’s still a Texan! This man never fails to amaze me! Seriously? He comes out of nowhere with those catches! I know for a fact he will be in the Hall of Fame! Most importantly is his very own foundation, the Andre Johnson Charitable Foundation that focuses on children and teens growing up in single parent homes. Last year I got to partake in one of the best appearances with Andre. It included 12 beautiful children, 12 cheerleaders & 80 seconds to fill up your basket with whatever you want at Toys ‘R’ Us and Andre picked up the tab–$17,352 later. How awesome is that? Giving back is what it’s all about. Especially to these children that look up to him! I literally had tears rolling down my face during this appearance. I love Andre for that!

MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere?

L: NRG Stadium is exhilarating! If you’ve haven’t been, you need to GO!

From the second you walk in the main entrance you’ll see the Official Go Texans Store where you can find anything and everything “Texans.” Walking around the stadium you’ll feel pumped up – there are teamwork signs hanging everywhere including my personal favorite: “When you Come Here 1. Do your job 2. Work hard 3. Pay attention & focus 4. Always put the TEAM first” sign.

You’ll even see life-size J.J. WATT PICTURES! Sitting in your seat is pretty intense–you can literally feel the heat from the cannons being fired when the players come out of the tunnel. And when we score a touchdown, Football Time in Houston by Clay Walker is jamming! But if JJ WATT scores a touchdown, man the entire stadium is roaring and you can’t forget his signature song “Turn Down for Watt.” All the fans are on their feet! I pretty much lose my voice at every game–win or lose. Even if you don’t like football (which I don’t know anyone who doesn’t), I promise you’ll have an awesome time.

MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?

L: I’d love to be a mixture of Sporty Spice and Posh! I can have the best of both worlds. I’m kind of a tomboy at heart but don’t get me wrong I love to dress up and look chic.

2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING

MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?

L: I’m pretty lucky to say that I have 32 best friends. Being part of this sisterhood for three years– I guess you could say I have about 90 best friends! But there’s definitely a “bestie” each year– my girl Amelia! She was my little sister last year and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her these past two years. This girl will bend over backwards for you, she’s a shoulder to lean on, a good laugh, and is truly just one of those forever kind of friends. Late phone calls/early texts–doesn’t matter what time of day she’s always there for me. It’s also funny how I know exactly what she’s thinking most of the time without even saying a word. I know she says she looks up to me but little does she know I’m the one that looks up to her! I love you girl, XOXO.

MCD: Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?

L: Most cheerleaders are said to be “stuck up,” “dumb” or that we have the easiest job in the world to “just stand there and look pretty,” which is totally not true. I cheer alongside of some of the classiest, smartest, and talented girls I’ve ever met. We have an engineer on the team, a girl who is attending nursing school, teachers who help educate our youth, we even have a full-time mom and that’s just to name a few. Cheering is a part-time job for us, we love what we do and who we do it for! But being a cheerleader isn’t at all easy, we have long nights & early mornings, we love reaching out to our community, countless hours in the gym, and you can’t forget the dancing. There’s about a hundred dances we learn. And we do it all for the FANS!

MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?

L: Compassion International is very special to me. Compassion International is a Christian child sponsorship organization dedicated to the long-term development of children living in poverty around the world. I have a huge heart for the children of the world. Two years ago I actually decided to sponsor a child through Compassion. His name is Elias from Ethiopia; he’s the cutest 6-year-old who loves to play soccer. Sponsoring a child will help give them food and clean water, medical care, educational opportunities, important life-skills training and encourage them to develop a lifelong relationship with God. I hope to help Elias graduate school and hopefully attend college. I plan to one day visit him and to continue changing this world one child at a time!

MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?

L: That’s easy. MY GIRL BEYONCE! Anyone that knows me knows that I love Queen Bey!

MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?

L: Well…. I have an obsession with Great Danes! I find myself searching daily, looking at them. My poor friends are probably tired of me talking about Great Danes. I plan to get a Blue Great Dane once I finish football season and I cannot WAIT! I’m definitely going to be that crazy dog lady.

MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?

L: I love chips & dip! Who doesn’t? I would bring my personal/fan favorite fiesta seven layer dip— colorful layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese and spicy tomatoes–with a party size bag of Fritos SCOOPS! Scoops are a must! I can literally sit there and eat the entire bag.

It’s unfortunate that I miss out on one of the best parts about football– tailgating! But when I’m done with my cheerleading career I will be at every tailgate.

MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?

Six beautiful cheerleaders graced the cover of the Houston Texans swimsuit calendar, including our girl Liz

L: Gum–minty gum, fruity gum, sour gum! You name it, I have it! Can I pay you in gum? I chew gum ALL DAY (except at practice–my coach hates gum) and sometimes you get tired of one flavor so I like to have options! And yes, I do share.

MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?

L: I’m currently obsessing over “White Girl Problems” by Babe Walker. I think Babe is my new #WomenCrushWednesday. She’s like a modern day version of Marilyn Monroe only with no filter & zero class. Reading this book is so hilarious I’m sure people think I’m crazy when they see me laughing to myself.

MCD: What’s your secret to a perfect selfie?

L: [laughing] Last year I was voted by my teammates as the “Best Selfie Taker.” I only ever take selfies when I’m in the car. Why? I have no idea. I guess because that’s the only the time I actually have to myself. Or maybe because of all the natural light coming through the windows. I just know that my hair color is always on point when I’m in the car. I do always hold my phone at a lower level than most girls I see taking selfies.

MCD: Your hair is probably perfect because of your profession. Just saying…Twerking: Fun while it lasted or wish it never started?

L: I guess it was fun while it lasted. Coming from a dancing background, “twerking” wasn’t anything new. It does crack me up when I see my little niece attempt to “twerk.” I like to say the word more like #TwerkingOut.

MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule–any time for hobbies or interests?

L: When I’m not working in the salon or cheering on the sidelines I like to CrossFit! I love being able to tie my hair in a messy bun (which I never get to do, being that I do hair for a living & we cheer with our hair down) and jam out to some rock and lift heavy weights for a change of pace. I like a good challenge and friendly competition.

MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?

L: Definitely a homebody. I could be an adventurer, I just don’t have time or the energy on most occasions. After working 10 hour days, I just want to go home and change into my yoga pants, maybe eat a bowl of cereal (Honeycombs) and watch some Netflix.

If you want more Liz and HTC, follow her on Twitter @HTC_Liz. She wants you all to know that she follows back!

You’re not done yet, hoss — Liz sent us a couple dozen photos, and rather than deprive you of any of them, we put ‘em all in a gallery!

This article on Texans cheerleader Liz originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original and yes, more photos too. A big thank you to Shock Top for sponsoring this series on The Blonde Side, so we can show the world just how awesome NFL cheerleaders are – even when they aren’t wearing their uniforms.

October 28, 2014/by Jayme

68 Days: My Year End Goal

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Inspiration and goal setting

As of right this second (I guess depending on where you live in the world and time zones and all that), there are 68 days left in 2014.

It’s crazy, because over the past few weeks I have heard multiple times, “Starting next year I’m going to ___,” or “My New Year’s Resolution will be ____” and I kind of want to punch these people (gently of course) in the throat.

What’s wrong with the 68 days still left to be lived before the new year actually kicks off?

A lot can happen in 68 days. It’s too early in the morning for me to do any research, but I would imagine you could lose a bunch of weight and develop some intense abs, you could start eating clean, you could save up a few bucks, you could start volunteering at a local charity, you could donate old clothes, you could start smiling more, you could be nicer, you could take cooking classes – those all seem to be reasonable things you could do in the next 68 days. There is no need to wait. I sound like an infomercial right there, but it’s true dammit.

I’m not a numbers girl, but I am. That probably doesn’t make much sense. As in, I am not good at math, especially fractions and percentages and such, but if you put a number in front of me in the form of a goal or “days left,” then I’m on it.

So here is my promise and my challenge to you. I’d LOVE to hear what goal you set for yourself in the remaining 68 days of 2014.

I’ll start – my year end goal is to find a literary agent or publisher to get my book out. I made a HUGE leap to pick up and move to Hawaii last summer to write a ridiculously funny memoir (honestly, Chelsea Handler may offer me a job as her ghost writer once she reads it), but if I’m being honest, I haven’t worked very hard to find an agent.

So the quote above is extremely applicable to yours truly – never hope for it more than you work for it. I want my book to be published more than you could ever imagine, so it’s time to get to business and get it done. As I’ve said since day one: it’s too good not to.

Now it’s your turn – comment here with your goal. I’d love to hear it – no matter how big or small it is – remember, 68 days is still a lot of time left on the clock.

October 24, 2014/by Jayme

My Colorful Super Power

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You see great lululemon running tights. I see the most perfect Philadelphia Eagles gameday pants.

I’m pretty sure I have a super power. It may not be a super power many consider actually useful, but it’s a colorful super power I’m proud of nonetheless.

Are you ready to hear my super power? I see colors in gameday mode. Seriously, that was it. That’s my super power.

It’s happened a million times. I’ll be shopping with a friend and she’ll see this maroon’ish Alternative Apparel maxi dress (pictured bottom right) and think it’s the perfect dress for her upcoming cruise, but you know what I see? A Florida State gameday dress that can be paired with either gold wedges, flats or flip-flops with the final addition of an arrow flash tattoo or two and some other gold jewelry and boom – you’re FSU gameday ready. (Which trust me, is WAY better than a cruise anyways.)

I can look at an awesome royal blue seamless tank top and think, “This is perfect for a Kansas City Royals game” and call it a day. But once you add orange anywhere into the equation, then I hate it because it looks like a Florida Gator vomited on it and all of a sudden it’s ugly. Seriously, you see regular colors, I see gameday colors. I suppose it’s both a blessing and a curse.

So now that I’ve clarified my personal super power, it’s time to get something off my surgically enhanced chest. I fully respect many (my apologies not all) fashion bloggers out there, but I’ve noticed an increased number of “gameday fashion guides” and “tailgate trends” and I find them ridiculously misleading and inaccurate.

There is a reason I don’t blog about child carseats. You know what that reason is? BECAUSE I DON’T HAVE A CHILD, NOR A CARSEAT. And if you’re looking for pros and cons on particular carseats and you take my advice, YOU ARE AN IDIOT. Not to mention now I’m terrified for your soon-to-be-child.

Alternative Apparel – you see comfy cruise dress, I see gameday. GO NOLES

But you know what you probably should come to me for advice on? Considering I’ve gotten up at the butt-crack of dawn for a 6a NFL tailgate (multiple times) and stood out there in blistering 105 degree temperatures drinking Bud Light all day, scarfing down various meats on sticks, using port-o-potties and throwing perfect spirals to friends in the parking lots, I think I’m pretty well versed in what to wear and what not to wear to a tailgate. So the silly little fashion blogger who says Christian Louboutins are the perfect gameday shoe for Texans games and tailgates (you know, simply because they have red on the bottom) is an idiot and so is the fashionista saying a $700 burnt orange cashmere sweater should help you kick of Longhorn Football IN AUGUST. Just like the above parent looking to me for carseats.

You can put all the thought in the world into a tank top and skinny jeans with wedges for a game at Lambeau in the middle of December, but guess what, you will actually die of frostbite. As in death. Either that, or your big ugly puffer jacket will cover your entire “well-thought out” outfit anyway, so you’re better off sticking with a green and yellow hat or headband or scarf to show your pride. You’re better off sticking with someone who has gone to a game at Lambeau in December.

I have sat courtside for an NBA All-Star game, so I can promise you that the little fashion guide that tells you to don a leather miniskirt with a low-cut tucked in gray tank for a Brooklyn Nets game will be HYSTERICAL (not to mention dangerous) when a player dives for to keep the ball from going out of bounds and knocks you and your leather mini back a few rows. It’s not practical. And you and your Britney will end up on national TV. (If you click the link for “Britney,” note it’s the second definition I am referring to.)

I will say all my time spent in gameday apparel, at tailgates and on the courts and fields has caused me to step up my fashion game a little, but I will still always be practical. If I’m on the Club Level meeting with potential sponsors, I may decide on a pair of comfortable wedges, or if I’m running around the tailgates passing out koozies and signs for The Blonde Side, I will more than likely be wearing appropriately colored Chucks.

Note: I have bought many non-practical gameday color-inspired items I’d never wear to a game, but still allows me to show my team pride at an event. I’ve even worn a dark green cocktail dress with black heels to a wedding, because those “friends” were mean enough to have their wedding on a Sunday during the season. I didn’t think a Junk Food Eagles tank would have been appropriate, so it was my only other option. And you better believe each and everytime someone complimented my dress, I gave an Eagles score update.

End rant.

Now it’s your turn: what bothers you about these gameday trends or fashion posts? What have you seen at a game that you’ve just absolutely loved or hated?

October 23, 2014/by Jayme

MNF Texans at Steelers Review

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The Blonde Side’s selfie with the Traveling Texans at MNF in Pittsburgh

My second visit to the great city of Pittsburgh was just as amazing as my first (last year for the FSU/PITT game), if not better. Having grown up on the East Coast, I’m rather disappointed I waited until the past couple years to check out this fun city.

Although a short visit, I headed to Pittsburgh Sunday afternoon (via Southwest) to meet up with some Texans fans for the much anticipated Monday Night Football game, which was supposed to go a little something like this…it’s going to take more than a towel to stop JJ Watt, however, to our disappointment the Steelers played pretty well. And to the shock of most of the NFL world, the Steelers actually showed up for all four quarters. Kudos to them now 4-3, while the Texans sunk to 3-4 (but it’s still early in the season).

Here are some highlights of my Pittsburgh visit, where I stayed, ate, and partied. Perhaps use it as a guide next time you visit and if I missed any good spots, leave a comment so I can add it to my next visit. Because there will be a next visit.

Lodging: Cambria Suites: I stayed at the same spot I stayed last fall – it was a tiny bit further than most of my friend’s hotels, but with their free and accessible shuttle, I literally was only a few minutes away. I wish I had been in town to catch a Penguins game (never seen them), as my hotel is literally a stones throw away from the arena.

The hotel is clean and simple, and has everything you need (including a mini-fridge in the hotel and a Keurig) and the fitness center is definitely on point.

Bars: I spent pretty much my entire 30 hours in bars. Before you get all judge-y on me, know this – I was supposed to stay in Pittsburgh until Wednesday so I could enjoy the city more (after the MNF debauchery had subsided), but a last minute opportunity led me to Kansas City to catch Game 1 of the World Series. I get it – tough life.

Bettis – I would venture to say I spent more time in this one spot than anywhere else. It’s the same owner group as the Texans Grille, it was a good easy-to-find meeting spot, the food was good and the Bud Light was cold. What else do you need? Plus, shots just kept coming and coming. The cheeseburger sliders and Steak Tip Salad were incredible – better than pretty much any bar food I’ve had – and trust me, I’ve had a lot.

Redbeards – Another place I have been before, still great like last time. It was a little more low-key than Bettis’ but still very fun. Football on the TVs and friendly bar staff.

Flatheads – (On E. Carson Street) – Definitely a younger looking-to-party crowd and just over the bridge (as if there aren’t 492 bridges to decipher from…). Great local selection of beers and I heard the food was amazing, but had already eaten so I can’t speak firsthand.

Primanti Bros – Before everyone says, oh I love that place!!, I do not. I have never actually eaten here, so directly after MNF we headed over to Market Square, which is walking distance from Heinz Field. We checked online and it said it was open until Midnight and when we walked in at 11:39, not only was the kitchen already closed, the overweight dude in camo cargo shorts with an obvious chip on his shoulder was a complete jerk. Here’s the thing – if you closed the kitchen early (which as a business owner, I am not a fan

Outside Heinz Field, ready to watch MNF

of), that’s fine, but BE POLITE about it. A simple, “sorry guys, we already closed the kitchen down tonight, come grab us tomorrow,” would have sufficed. It wouldn’t have filled my belly, but I wouldn’t be writing this right now.

And it gets better – I sat down and chatted with a guy from LA who was eating and we were catching highlights on the TV above his table. The large man came and turned the TV off rather aggressively, then when I left goes, “thanks for interrupting his meal.” The funny part was the guy from LA (whose meal I had supposedly interrupted) looked at him and informed him that I did not interrupt his meal. Awkward. Weird. I was in a Texans shirt, so that could have pissed him off, but YOUR TEAM WON and I was trying to give you money. Oh well, I still hear it tastes good, but I’ll spend my hard-earned-barely-there paycheck elsewhere.

Delucas – This is a hole in the wall diner well known for breakfast, located in a historic part of Pittsburgh. We waited in line Monday morning next to a handful of other Texans fans for an extremely greasy/perfect for a hangover meal. The line looked a lot longer than the actual wait and it has a huge menu.

Meat and Potatoes – I didn’t get the chance to make it there this trip, but I wish I had. If you head to Pittsburgh, THIS is where you need to go for dinner. It is amazing. That is all I remember from last time. Make reservations if possible.

Transportation: For the most part, we used Uber, which was easy, except after the game when none were available. Pittsburgh is a pretty easy and walkable city, so that was a plus and of course I had access to Cambria Suites complimentary shuttle, which was never more than 20 minutes away.

Run: A great city for a run (or walk) and a chance to take in all the beautiful rivers, bridges and just all around scenery. For a few tips and trails, check out this local Pittsburgh Running Group.

Photo Opp: In true Traveling Texans form, a massive group of Texans fans met up at Points Park to take a group photo. The Texans even sent along staff to hand out goodies to the hardcore fans. Nice touch Texans, nice touch.

Heinz Field: A fairly new stadium, just 13 years old, Heinz Field is a beauty. The black and yellow are pretty aggressive (the colors, not the fans) once inside, and I had the opportunity to sit in the club level (Section 236), which had a full bar, no lines for food and a great view of the field.

Oh…we did make one more stop, late night Sunday – hopefully my mom and dad already stopped reading this, but we went to Blush (strip club). I’m a fan of these establishments once in a blue moon, but I would steer clear of this one. Sorry Blush employees, but I speak the truth.

Thanks to Pittsburgh, their fans and businesses for showing this Texas girl another good time. Will definitely be seeing you in the near future!

October 21, 2014/by Jayme

Marco Andretti: Staying on Track

The Blonde Side

Photo courtesy of Guttman PR

With the 2014 IndyCar season closed out, there’s nothing more for drivers like Marco Andretti to do but look ahead.

Not finishing the season quite as he had hoped, Andretti still has a lot on his side – like his family of tried and true legendary racecar drivers, his crew, his friends and fans – and now even more experience under his seat belt. Oh, and don’t forget the NFL season and playing video games with his brother.

Back in his heyday, Andretti became the youngest winner in 2006 (he was 19 at the time), showing he didn’t need to live in the shadows of his famous racing family and could stand on his own. Now in his ninth season, he comes to the track with a higher level of maturity along with a profound respect and understanding of the sport.

“You don’t know as a rookie, you just do it,”Andretti says of a few things he’s learned during his nine seasons on the track. “You don’t think about it, you just do it. But sometimes ignorance is bliss. I look at a lot of the rookies and they’re just fast –– raw talent. Now with experience, it’s balancing the experience and talent, trying not to overstep the limits of the car, being more consistent, bringing home where the car can finish instead of trying to force the issue somewhere, and maybe have a DNF. It’s just experience, knowing when to keep your foot in certain situations when it’s going to benefit you and when to take those chances.”

Wrapping up the season, Andretti had nothing but a win in mind, noting that a few weekends before the team had a mishap during a routine pit stop. “It’s been pretty brutal – [that race] we came in 3rdin the pit stop in the last stop and came out 14th – it’s just been absolutely brutal and we need to get that monkey off our back. To end the season like that, all of a sudden to have a win on the podium, it can salvage a whole season for us,” Andretti said heading into the last two weeks of the season.

“You work so hard for hundredths of a second and we give up 24 seconds or something like that, but my guys are some of the best in the business–one guy didn’t even sleep that night he was so upset – they all want to win as bad as I did – just bad luck,” he says of how tight-knit his crew is, not to mention how competitive and intense they all are.

As for his notorious racing family and trying to follow suit, Andretti simple says, “You just have to take the positives from it, just to have [your family] in your corner is awesome.”

“It’s a double-edged sword as they say – it maybe opens sponsorship doors – those are big shoes to fill, but I put that on myself with anything I compete in really. You want to succeed – I’m probably my toughest critic. I know if I’m making myself happy, I know everybody is going to be impressed,” he says.

It’s not just his family that helps push and motivate him, but a large part his fans as well. “Fans are in your corner regardless, there are all different types – they like to talk bad when things don’t go right, but that’s what makes it sports – we’re paid to be entertainers because of them. Obviously none of us would have a job without them, so we appreciate their support. I’m lucky to be blessed with an awesome fan base,” Andretti says.

Though officially over, IndyCar drivers don’t necessarily have an off-season, true to many sports. “I was joking with my friends last night because they were talking about going on vacation, but the off season doesn’t look like an off season. I guess it’s a good thing; you don’t want to get too stagnant. I’m definitely moving around – I have some stuff in the UK, hopefully we have some racing in another series, I try to at least stay busy–I don’t want to just stay home. Running on the treadmill to prepare yourself just gets boring,” he jokes.

Known for being one of the most versatile drivers, Andretti has competed in the American Le Mans Series, the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport, the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, and has been named to the FIA Formula E Drivers” Club. But he’s not content leaving his accolades there, which is why you always see him hustling around.

It’s not just inside a racecar that Andretti gets super competitive. “My brother just got me the newest Forza game – I have a problem I’m so competitive. I have to stop myself. I’d have no social life and would play all night,” he laughs.

If you’re one of the 77,000+ following Marco Andretti on Twitter, you may have noticed a tweet to Deion Sanders, but that doesn’t mean he’s a Cowboys fan. “He’s a friend of mine – I was bummed because he’s selling his house [in Dallas], it’s so cool.” You can also check him out on Instagram as he posts hilarious photos of his bulldog Moodie. (Bonus trivia! Moodie’s father is King Maximum who belongs to Ice-T and his wife Coco.)

Perhaps not harboring as much disdain for the Dallas Cowboys as some (like myself), Andretti finds himself rooting for the Colts, having a few friends on the team. And without question, he misses watching Peyton in a Colts uniform. “That guy is one of the best to ever play the game – as a Colts fan, we definitely miss him. I’m good friends with Reggie Wayne and I miss watching them play together,” he says looking forward to the newly kicked-off NFL season, once again led by Andrew Luck.

Driving a car at 220+mph speeds for a living must make it difficult to drive a normal car like the rest of us. “The only time I can get caught up in it is actually leaving a race – if I’m leaving a race and heading to the airport in my rental car, I don’t even notice I’m going fast because it’s slow motion – you have to catch yourself. I used to drive fast, I’ve just matured,” Andretti says.

And according to him, it’s pretty hit or miss if cops let him off the hook. “You get the ones that are fans or sometimes the one who wants to make an example out of you.”

Be on the lookout for Marco to continue his family legacy both on and off the track.

This article originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily – click here to see the original.

October 21, 2014/by Jayme

Monique – First Lady of Football

Cheerleading

Redskins fans love Monique, and so do we!

Surrender to Monique – First Lady of Football

Animal lover, firm believer in a judgment-free friend-zone, dancer, lover of all things military, culture and football, Monique is a prime example of an NFL cheerleader. And not just any NFL cheerleader, but an esteemed and gorgeous member of the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders, lovingly known to most of the football world as the First Ladies of Football.

Oh, and did we mention she works in federal law enforcement and can take a selfie better than Kim Kardashian? Or that she was crowned Miss District of Columbia? Yeah, she’s kind of a big deal and we’re pretty sure you’ll agree.

Now check out our interview with our favorite first lady on the turf…

Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?

Monique: Washington, D.C

MCD: What school did you go to?

M: The University of the Arts.

MCD: Occupation?

M: Investigative Analyst.

MCD: Years on team?

M: Five years.

MCD: We hear making a team is hard, did you try out multiple times before making it?

M: I was fortunate enough to make it on my first try.

MCD: Are you in the calendar?

M: Yes, I am November 2014.

MCD: Greatest memory so far?

M: Greatest memory so far has to be our trip to Hong Kong for the Chinese New Year. It was exciting seeing how many fans we had in another country as well as experiencing a new culture and performing for one of their most celebrated holidays.

MCD: Favorite player?

M: Darrell Green. He was the first player my family told me about as a child and I became a huge fan of his immediately. As I got older and understood the game more I was able to truly appreciate how great of a corner he was for our team.

MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere.

M: I call game days at our stadium a mini carnival. If you get there early and don’t have a tailgate to attend we have plenty of things you can take part in before the game. You can find music and a bar-b-q on one end of the stadium, a chance to meet our cheerleader ambassadors on another and even catch a quick performance by us on three different occasions before the game. Even after the game we have a mini party we call “Fifth Quarter” for those who just don’t want to go home right after the game. It is a great way to avoid sitting in the post-game traffic!

2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING

MCD: Oh yes, the fifth quarter – always a fun time. Which Spice Girl would you be?

M: I would most likely be Scary Spice! As a child I always picked her to imitate out of the group and she has a great mix of sweet and sassy that I can definitely relate to!

MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?

M: My bestie on the squad is Chantelle. We have really grown close over these past two years which isn’t easy because I am so to myself a lot of the time! She is definitely the one person I can count on for any and all life issues from relationship talks to hair conversations. Always a phone call away and we have a strict no-judgment zone!

MCD: No judging is key in any relationship! Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?

M: There are so many misconceptions about pro cheerleaders, but the biggest one must be that this is our full-time job. Per our contract, we actually have to have a full-time job, be a full-time student or be a full-time mom to be on the team. Cheering for us is more of a part-time job on top of our other responsibilities in life. I had the privilege to cheer next to some of the brightest women I have ever met, from lawyers to scientists. Right now I cheer with a woman who has a full-time job, a side job and three kids on top of cheering, and my coach has two kids and is in school getting her master’s! So greatest is a requirement! And it starts from the top for our squad.

MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?

M: The ASPCA is very dear to me. I have always been an animal lover from a very young age. I would scream for my family to pull over the car whenever I saw a stray animal, wanting to help it. That’s how I came across my second dog Stella, that I legally adopted after saving her from an intersection. She is now the sister to my pomeranian Scrappy. My friends joke a lot because whenever watching a movie with an animal costar, I am always the one rooting for the animal. Saddens me how much harm comes to animals by those they depend on and I truly appreciate the ASPCA for fighting so hard for them!

MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?

M: So as much as I don’t want to sound cliché, I will sound cliché and say Beyonce. Her dancers DANCE! And one thing I admire most after seeing her dancers perform is that she allows them to perform so many different styles of dance. One minute they can be doing hardcore hip-hop, then they are doing African dance, then tapping, then en pointe then they’re doing modern dance! I really respect that about her. She allows them to truly showcase their talents and not be what my college jazz teacher likes to call “one trick ponies,”

MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?

M: Fortunately for me, I can answer this honestly and say nothing! I am usually only on the computer when I am at work and since I work for the government there isn’t much embarrassing things I can Google.

MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?

M: I would bring crab mac and cheese. Oh my goodness, it will change your life! Mac and cheese is appropriate anywhere you go but add some crab meat to it and now you are eating heaven with every bite.

So you’re telling us somewhere there’s a guy who gets to date Monique, play with dogs, and eat crab mac ‘n’ cheese? How do we overthrow and usurp him?

MCD: Thanks Monique–it’s only 9am and I’m craving tailgate food!I know a huge part of being an NFL Cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military–if you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?

M: Thank you so much for your continued service, dedication, and bravery for our country. There is never enough appreciation shown or expressed for what you all do and the sacrifices you make!

Monique – first lady of football, November 2015 swimsuit calendar girl

MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?

M: Haha I have one random sock in there. It’s CLEAN! But very random… I wonder where the other one is…

MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?

M: My favorite website is Houzz.com… I love all things relating to home décor!

MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies – probably more so than Kim Kardashian – what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?

M: I would check out our Selfie parody video! I think we kind of nailed it there.

MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule. Any time for hobbies or interests?

M: I am a hardcore movie buff so I LOVE going to the movies or staying in to rent the latest releases. I also enjoy bowling but I can’t say I make a lot of time for it, unfortunately.

MCD: What’s the team’s character like? What have you learned in your five years on the team?

M: We are like a sisterhood. Being on the team for five years you watch many come and go, but one thing I can say is that our sisterhood never goes anywhere. We are always one call away. There is a bond there that can’t be imitated.

MCD: Homebody or adventurer?

M: I am a little bit of both. I am a serious homebody but I will definitely head out for an adventure. It usually has to be something exciting and adventurous to get me out. I recently swam with dolphins, which have been on my bucket list for quite some time. Glad I can check that one off!

MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?

M: Every time I tell people I work in federal laweEnforcement that seems to completely shock people. So I guess my career is completely out of character. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

And of course of you can follow Monique and all the beautiful First Ladies of Football on social media…

This article originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original article with a lot more pictures of gorgeous Monique. Thank you to Shock Top for sponsoring this fun and unique series on the ladies of the NFL.

October 21, 2014/by Jayme

Titans Cheerleader Jena

Cheerleading

Titans cheerleader Jena showing the NFL world how it’s done

Whoever said there’s no accounting for taste would know how wrong they were if they ever accounted for our taste in accountants: Jena, a captain of the Tennessee Titans cheerleaders, is one impressive lady. And sure, we could gush about her, but that’d make this interview we’re about to conduct awkward, so we’ll just let her tell you about her passions for sports, cheering, country music, and breast cancer prevention. We figure before very long you’ll find we have similar tastes in kind, driven women.

But why take our word for it? Let her tell you about herself in her own words. Meet the self-described country girl who’s the one they had in mind when they coined the line, “Girl, are you from Tennessee? Because you’re the only ten we see.”

…that line isn’t going to work on her though. Because she is from Tennessee. Oh well, we tried. To the interview!

Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?

J: McMinnville, TN – a small country town between Nashville and Knoxville.

MCD: What school did you go to? What was your focus?

J: University of Memphis – graduated with a degree in Accounting.

MCD: Occupation?

J: Staff Accountant (except I have a sense of humor).

MCD: Hey, accountants party harder than anybody on April 15. How many years have you been a Titan?

J: This is my sixth year on the team and second as a captain. I started cheering in 2009.

MCD: Are you in the Titans calendar?

J: I share the October 2015 page with two of my beautiful teammates Jocelyn and Kaitlin.

MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart and why?

J: Breast Cancer Awareness – my grandmother died from breast cancer and my mom was diagnosed when she was 40 (16-year survivor).

MCD: Greatest cheering memory so far?

J: I have two: the Titans always honor breast cancer survivors at a game in October and in 2011 I asked my coach if we could honor my mom and my teammate Clair’s mom that year, and my coach Stacie made it

2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING

happen. Our mothers had no idea that we would be recognizing them on the field that day. I wanted it to be a surprise, so after one of our routines we walked over to them and took them out onto the field. We presented them with a pink helmet signed by the coach. My mother means the world to me and is the strongest person I know so to be able to have her on the field with me while 70,000 Titans fans cheered for her is a moment that I will never forget. She was diagnosed when I was 13 and I remember her trying to comfort us even though she was the one going through it. It was the first time that I’ve ever seen my dad cry.

The second one would be my trip to Tokyo, Japan this past Super Bowl to visit the troops at Camp Zama with four other NFL cheerleaders (Missy — Vikings, Alice — Falcons, Kristen — Cardinals, Susan — Redskins, and Krystal — Chiefs) This was my first time out of the country and it was by far the best trip of my life. To be able to see what our military does for us was truly amazing. Thank you Pro Tour Productions, Camp Zama and our host Randy Benton for giving us a trip of a lifetime.

MCD: Favorite player and why?

J: Coty Sensabaugh – Coty and his girlfriend Dominique are most definitely the nicest and most giving people that I know. They do a lot of charity events to raise money for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society and always ask us to be a part of the events. They come and support us at our calendar release party and this year Dominique brought us each a gift to thank us for always helping with their events and to show how much it means to them. Coty and Dominique have hearts of gold.

MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?

J: Sporty Spice–I played pretty much every sport you can think of growing up and you could find me playing basketball, soccer or football with the guys instead of playing dress up.

MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad (and why)?

J: Tandra – Tandra is the most thoughtful person that you will ever meet. She has a huge heart and is always there for people when they need it the most. We have the same sense of humor and are both country girls. I actually helped her fiancé plan his proposal to her in July at the Talladega race track (like I said we are both country girls). She is 5’1″ and I’m 5’7″ so taking photos with her is quite entertaining.

MCD: Biggest misconception about cheerleaders (in general or in the NFL)?

J: Most people think that being a professional cheerleader is our only job but it’s not. We are required to either be a full-time student or have a full-time job in order to be on the team. We have girls who are nurses, teachers, engineers, accountants, occupational therapists and some that are working on their masters.

MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be (dead or alive)?

J: I am a HUGE country music fan so I would be happy dancing with any country singer but my pick would definitely go to George Strait. He is a legend and his music is one of a kind.

MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?

J: We are in the process of choosing our Halloween costumes for the game this year and I just googled “How to make a football costume sexy.”

MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be (i.e. beer/wine – if so what kind, a special dish you made from scratch, your favorite brand of chips, etc. – get creative if you can)?

J: I absolutely love to cook, so when it comes to tailgating I always make brownies that look like footballs.

MCD: I know a huge part of being an NFL Cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military. If you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?

J: Thank you for your service, sacrifice, bravery and selflessness.

MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?

J: The most random thing in my purse right now is a tennis ball. I just had my third knee surgery and my muscles are always getting tight from therapy so I use the tennis ball to roll out the muscles. Plus it always comes in handy when I get bored at work.

MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?

J: My favorite website is ESPN Sportscenter so that I can stay updated on the players that are on my fantasy team and TheBlondeSide.com.

MCD: Aw, thanks for the plug! What’s your secret to a perfect selfie?

Jena is a big reason why I’ll always cheer for the Titans cheerleaders

J: I am probably the world’s worst selfie taker so I avoid those at all cost because they never turn out good.

MCD: Twerking: Fun while it lasted or wish it never started?

J: Still fun! I even taught my eight-year-old nephew how to twerk. I don’t think my sister-in-law was very happy about that though.

MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule. Any time for hobbies or interests?

J: I love going to sporting events so when I have free time you will find me at any SEC football game or Memphis Tigers basketball game. I also love to go back home and visit my family especially my nephew.

MCD: What’s the team’s character like? What have you learned since joining?

J: Funny – we probably have the funniest group of girls that you will ever meet. There are a few girls that could have a great career in standup comedy for sure.

MCD: Are you a homebody or an adventurer?

J: Adventurer – I have too much energy to be a homebody. I love being outdoors. Since the age of four, I’ve played basketball, soccer, softball, golf, gymnastics and cheerleading.

MCD: Tell us something odd about yourself.

J: I can quote the entire prayer scene from Talladega Nights.

To check out the original article that ran on Man Cave Daily (along with more pictures), click here. And a big thank you to The Blonde Side’s sponsor Shock Top for allowing us a platform to show how awesome (and shocking!) these NFL ladies are.

October 14, 2014/by Jayme

Quessenberry’s Life in the Trenches

Football

AP Photo

Note this story ran on Sports on Earth. Scroll to the bottom for the link to the full article.

HOUSTON — A sellout crowd of 70,000 plus gathered Thursday Night at NRG Stadium to watch an early season battle for first place in the AFC South, wondering if the Texans could put even the slightest dent in the all-time 20-4 head-to-head record in favor of the Colts. Things didn’t look great early, as Indy put up 24 unanswered points, thanks to T.Y. Hilton — and a lot of miscommunication in the Texans’ secondary. But Houston wasn’t done. The Texans slowly chipped away at the lead on the strength of the relentless pass rush by J.J. Watt, who fired up the fans with his fumble recovery and — what the Watt!? — runback TD in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to five. The Texans’ couldn’t finish the comeback, but they put up a fight. And sometimes, putting up a fight is what matters the most.

To read the full story on David Quessenberry’s battle with lymphoma, click here for Sports on Earth.

October 11, 2014/by Jayme

WIN these Goddess Leggings from ALO Yoga

Contests

WIN these Goddess Leggings from ALO Yoga ($92 value)

My daily routine looks a little like this: head to my trainer Annabelle at Sculpt Fitness in the morning and then the rest is completely unpredictable except for the fact I end up running errands around Houston in yoga pants and other awesome workout gear.

This is an Instagram contest from our friends at ALO Yoga. Follow these three SIMPLE rules and you could win (here is the link to the contest post):