Back to normal

Well, it seems that two seasons of a kinder, gentler Tony Stewart is enough.

His hair is longer and his temper and sarcasm are back.

Yes! Personality returns!

Did he or didn't he punch out Kurt Busch in the big red truck Saturday night after the Bud Shootout? Who cares, just the thought of it makes me giddy. I still harbor some ill feelings toward the older Busch boy after the pit road incident involving the #2 car and Tony's jackman.

Doesn't the younger Busch brother fit in with Tony? When questioned before the Bud Shootout about what happened in the truck, Kyle's comments turned to his sponsors, NOS energy drink and M&Ms.

Next comes Smoke's comments to the Associated Press about a Gibbs-Hendrick showdown. Priceless. Vintage Tony.

"It's going to be the epic battle, and it should be the battle of a lifetime and the century. There may not be another battle of this proportion for trhe rest of my life, my career, for the century."

Can't you see the smirk on his face? The sense of urgency in his voice?

Yep, Tony's back in full form - swinging, slapping, making fun of stupid questions.

Want to guess how long it takes him to get fined? Although, the powers that be only sanctioned a probation for six races to both Tony and Kurt. Maybe they're going to let the boys out of the cages.

Bring it on, it's going to be a fun season if Speedweeks is any indication.