Kickoff College Style

Kickoff of the college football season happened last Thursday and continued through last night. It was a crazy start to a crazy off season. I mean look at the following that occurred in the off season:

1. The Big 10 became the Big 12
2. The Big 12 became the Big 10
3. The PAC 10 became the PAC 12
4. BYU goes independent in Football
5. Boise State and Nevada bolt the WAC for the Mountain West

Then kickoff of the season with two non-automatic qualifying schools ranked in the preseason top ten. Boise State and TCU both started the year with wins over BCS teams (VA Tech and Oregon State respectively). A FCS team, Jacksonville State, beat a FBS (and automatic qualifying BCS school) Ole Miss.

A crazy way to start. Now if you've followed my blog you know what I think of the BCS. Some of you know that I have also created my own system to rank teams. This year? I think I will sit back and see what happens with Boise State and TCU. If they both go undefeated will the BCS put them in the same BCS bowl game again? Or will they have the guts to put them up against the “Big Boys”?

My guess is that if both go undefeated and there are only three undefeated teams in the country we will see Boise State and TCU play in a non-championship BCS bowl game against each other. This means that a one loss BCS school will get into the national championship game and the debate will begin again about the system.

Yes, it's time to get fired up about the BCS. It makes for great debates and stupid comments. Logic goes out the window a lot of times (even in this blog I must admit). It's always fun to see the fanatics and argue the pros and cons (mostly cons in my opinion) of the system.

Madness

I know that the term "madness" is usually reserved for March, but I think that I can make a good case that the beginning of September begins madness in the Blinston household. So here I go:

First, Birthday season is upon us. Over the next five months all seven birthdays occur. For a quick schedule it goes like this:

• September: Lia
• October: Grace
• November: Sam, Ellie and I
• December: Levi
• January: Cheryl

Of course that means we are all getting a year older and hopefully wiser. It also means birthday gifts and parties which as everyone knows can lead to madness.

Next up is all the activities that go on. For starters kids go back to school. We have a 4th, 2nd and 1st grader with Grace in Preschool. This means parent-teacher meetings, school events and homework. Yes madness ensues.

Of course school isn't the only thing going on. All the kids are in at least one activity. Here's the list:

• Levi: Horse Lessons and Flag Football
• Ellie: Dance and Piano lessons
• Sam: Club Soccer and Music lessons
• Grace: Dance Lessons
• Lia: Tumble Class

Can you say scheduling madness? Of course we can. Every night of the week something is happening except for the weekend when games are played on Saturday.

What else contributes to the madness you ask? Well how about Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years? There's no madness in a family's schedule with four holidays in four months is there?

Ok, moving on from family more madness ensues when you consider the following:

1. English Premier League Soccer kickoff
2. College football kickoff (and don't get me started on the BCS and other news, that's for another post)
3. NFL Kickoff (can you say Fantasy Football?)
4. NHL Puck Drop
5. MLB Playoffs and World Series
6. NBA Tip-off
7. PGA Fed Ex cup
8. College Basketball Tip-off

No madness for a person who's a sports fanatic right?

Now throw in the service we give in our church and then activities that we want to do ourselves. Don't forget the full-time job I have with work and the full-time job Cheryl has at home (I'm still trying to figure out how she doesn't get paid more than me). I'm sure you'll agree that madness has occurred.

I'm not trying to take anything away from March, but you've got to admit that the Blinston household probably could give it a run for its money.

I've Been Trained

As part of my current work with the 14 - 16 year old boys I was registered as the Varsity Scout Coach. In order to be an effective scout leader one has to be trained. There are several courses online that can be taken, but the one that cannot is Leader Specific Training.

This training involves a day of "classroom" instruction and an overnight event. The "classroom" instruction started at 7AM on a Saturday morning and ended at 3PM. There was a "gathering" activity to start the day. It was tennis ball dodge ball. Anyone who hasn't played this version should try it. Getting hit with a tennis ball leaves marks and catching them is nigh impossible. Now imagine you have 50 guys between their late 20s and early 50s. Yes it was a riot.

Classroom instruction can get boring, however the staff did a good job of not letting it get too tedious. The instruction was basically about how the program is organized and how to get the boys to run it. You see in scouting the adult leaders should really be advisers and the boys should really run the show.

The overnight event was better than the classroom instruction. We arrived at the camp site and set up our tents (yes we slept in the great outdoors). There was a camp fire program where the squads (which were formed in the classroom instruction) were to announce their name, give a yell and then perform a skit. My squad was the "Barely Theres". Our yell:

Barely Theres are everywhere,
But wherever we are
we're barely there

Our skit involved four suckers, I mean volunteers. These were led away from the camp and told that the audience would be guessing what they acted out. The men acted out a World War II fighter pilot, a man in an earthquake, a contestant in a hot dog eating contest, and someone with ants in his pants. We led the volunteers away to give them their assignment. In the meantime the last of our squad was informing the audience that we all know how uncomfortable it is to do one's business in the woods. That the volunteers would be demonstrating how they cope with this when they come up. With that each volunteer came up and sat in a chair and acted out their part. It was hilarious to see them act. Of course at the end of the skit we informed the volunteers what was actually going on.

After the camp fire program we headed to bed as the morning was going to start at 5:30. At 5:30 the director of the program came around with a rendition of "Have I done any good in the world today?" off key and definitely woke the world. At 6:00 AM we had a flag ceremony and a small morning devotional where we learned a little bit more about the Star Bangled Banner. Breakfast was muffins, bagels, croissants, fruit and yogurt.

After breakfast we started our stations. The first one for my squad was Backpacking. We learned about what equipment was needed and how to pack them appropriately. We recently had gone backpacking with the boys so this was old hat.

Next was Geo Caching. For those of you unfamiliar with it, basically it's using GPS to locate specific coordinates where items have been placed. Yes it's a treasure hunt and something that can be done with the whole family. I brought our family's hand held GPS unit and learned a trick or two.

Third up was a review of the Mountain Man Rendezvous. This is a gathering where scouts get into period costumes and make artifacts from that period that can be traded with others. We saw things that were made such as knives, powder horns, pouches, coats, etc.

Lunch was then served. Each squad had a Dutch Oven recipe to make. Our squad made Hawaiian chicken and rice. A good recipe for sure. Lunch also included stews, cheesy potatoes, and desserts. All made in the Dutch Oven. All of it was tasty so each group did a good job (and believe me there was some worries about some of the squads).

Our last station was rappelling. I had never done rappelling before and it was only a 30 foot cliff so it wasn't that bad. Now, I have an initial fear of heights. Meaning I have to get over the first fear of the height and then I'm fine. So after I was clicked in and given the basics I started out. The others in the group gave me suggestions. About 1/2 way down the instructor had me bounce off the rocks and get moving a little bit. I have to admit it was a lot of fun and I look forward to being able to do larger rappels in the future.

The last part of training was a recap of what happened. It was a time to reflect on the training and how it will benefit the boys we are to advise. Our certificates were handed out and we were all proclaimed "trained".

All in all it was well worth the time. Now the tricky part is to get the training implemented with my boys. Probably not an easy task, but something that will happen. I mean after all, I've been trained.

What is Truth?

Today word came out that Fox News' parent corporation made large donations to the Republican Governor's association. The story also noted that pretty much all news media (CNN, CBS, NBC, ABC, etc) have made political donations (mostly to Democrats by the way). It begs the question, do any of them report the truth or is it all slanted?

In church there is a hymn we sing called Oh Say, What is Truth? The last verse goes:

Then say, what is truth? 'Tis the last and the first,
For the limits of time it steps o'er.
Tho the heavens depart and the earth's fountains burst,
Truth, the sum of existence, will weather the worst,
Eternal, unchanged evermore.

Unfortunately in this era of ratings and advertising the truth seems to be something of little importance to the "news" media. There is always a slant that misconstrues the truth and leans either to the right or left politically. It is a huge issue for those who are young and impressionable as they are easily swayed and can mistake the slant for the truth. For others it leaves a feeling of distrust and dislike leading to misconceptions and over exaggerations about the source.

So in this world of slanted news how does one know the truth? How can the truth be deciphered from the pieces that are given to us by those who are supposed to report the actualities of what is going on?

My answer? Read/view as much as you can and let your instinct (gut, spirit, whatever you want to call it) guide you. If it feels right, then it probably is. If it feels wrong, it almost definitely is. Don't be afraid to challenge premises and assumptions. Take off any colored glasses you may have on (which is very difficult to do sometimes) and look at things as objectively as possible.

So what can be done to make the news media report things without bias? The last thing I want is for them to be regulated and forced to do things. They should be doing things because it is the right thing to do. However, doing the right thing seldom makes money and let's face it, it's hard to do the right thing without cash.

So where does that leave us? Well it means that we have to be smart enough to see the slant to the story and look for the things that will lead us to more truth. That is not an easy thing to do. Also it takes time. Of course the truth is probably worth it in order to ensure that we don't get duped by those on either side of the political aisle.

I've Been Amused

Today we took our three oldest to an amusement park (Lagoon in Utah to be specific). It was a great time and the kids had a lot of fun. Of course when one goes to an amusement park, there are always things that amuse you more than the rides and other attractions. Today for instance before lunch I made the following three observations:

1. Some people need to be reminded that Frightmares (what it's called at Lagoon) is in October and not July

2. Teenage girls should not wear greet t-shirts that say "Rub For Luck" on the front of them.

3. People who are old enough to be Grandparents who have younger children SHOULD wear shirts that say "Yes, I am the Mother!" on them

Ok, in some sense I tend to mock people who wear tube socks for cover-ups or shirts that look like they've been modified by ripping to get that off the shoulder look. And believe me, there were plenty of examples of fashion faux-pas today that some of my social network pals could do "What was he/she thinking?" for months.

On the other side there were plenty of other people at the park who I admired. I saw at least three groups of people taking those who are mentally disabled on rides. Allowing these people the opportunity to get out and have fun in a great atmosphere.

I saw my own children helping other children get out of belts and harnesses at rides without even being asked. I witnessed courtesy in all its many forms. Politeness also made its presence known.

I saw families enjoying the atmosphere, food and attractions. All kinds of families were present, everything from new families just starting out to ones like ours where Grandparents to Grandchildren wore similar shirts to show family unity.

All in all I was greatly amused and hope to continue this 2 year tradition we have going.

World Cup Quarterfinals

So I went 5 - 3 in my round of 16 picks. Not too bad. Obviously picking England and Portugal were risky. The US? Maybe I led with my heart a little more than I should have. BTW, the first Dutch goal was scored by Robben so I should get some credit.

Anyways, the quarterfinals start tomorrow. Again I am making picks so let's go:

Netherlands - Brazil: It's a shame they're meeting in the quarters. This is going to either be a super classic or a super stinker. I think both teams will go on the attack. The Dutch are probably the only team that can compete with Brazil in the midfield. Look for an intense game. I think this is going to produce the eventual champion. I'm going with an upset. Netherlands 3 - Brazil 2. Robben again the man to provide the Dutch spark.

Uruguay - Ghana: Probably the most unexpected match up in the quarters. Ghana showed a lot of heart against the US. Uruguay seem to be hitting their stride. I don't think Ghana can handle the combination of Forlan and Suarez. Another spirited game. Expect a lot of physical play and fouls to be committed. I'll take Uruguay to win 3 - 1. Forlan gets one on a free kick and Suarez scores the final goal on the counter attack.

Argentina - Germany: Call this one "Clash of the Titans". Another game to put in the "shame it's in the quarters" category. Argentina is still sore from the loss four years ago. Germany is looking strong. I expect to see Argentina on the attack with Germany on the counter. It's going to be low scoring, but I think this is the game that Messi scores and shines in. Argentina 2 - Germany 1

Paraguay - Spain: This is the "David vs Goliath" game in the quarters. Paraguay couldn't score against Japan, but hit every penalty. Spain played well and David Villa's goal was well taken. However, the Spanish did a lot of flopping and in a quarterfinal that won't fly. I don't see any way Paraguay can handle Spain's attack. Paraguay's keeper Villar will have to play on his head to keep this close. Don't expect that to happen. Spain 3 - Paraguay 0.

So there you have it. With the picks we will have Netherlands - Uruguay and Argentina - Spain in the semifinals. Of course I'll have a finals pick after tomorrow's games.

World Cup Round of 16 matches

The first round of the World Cup has finished. Some surprises have occurred (are you listening Les Bleus and Azurri?). Anyways, tomorrow the 2nd round starts. I thought I would give my predictions for each of the games:

Uruguay - South Korea: Uruguay showed class in their group. South Korea was tenacious. Outcome? Uruguay 3 - South Korea 1. Forlan too much for the Koreans

USA - Ghana: Americans with a dramatic victory to get in. Ghana held on to advance. A physical affair. Outcome? USA 2 - Ghana 1. Dempsey and Altidore score on balls played by Donovan.

Netherlands - Slovakia: Dutch haven't peaked yet. Slovakia kicked out the defending champs. Outcome? Big Orange Machine 3 - Slovakia 1. Robben the play maker and scorer of the first goal.

Brazil - Chile: Brazil is the class of the tournament. Chile are gritty. Finesse against physical. Outcome? Brazil 1 - Chile 1. Brazil advances on penalties. Kaka man of the match.

Argentina - Mexico: Argentina are the 2nd best team in the tourney. Mexico played it's group well and helped to send France out. A spirited affair. Outcome? Argentina 3 - Mexico 2. Messi gets the game winner.

Germany - England: Germany started well, but fizzled somewhat. England fizzled but brought it when they had to. Probably the most interesting (or 2nd most) match. Outcome? England 2 - Germany 0. Rooney finally shows up.

Paraguay - Japan: Paraguay helped to send Italy out. Japan figured out the Jabulani. A toss-up? Bet on the South Americans. Outcome? Paraguay 2 - Japan 1. Paraguay presses and it pays off.

Spain - Portugal: Spain won when they had to, but haven't looked sharp. Portugal had a seven goal outburst. Most entertaining (maybe most interesting) match in this round. Outcome? Portugal 3 - Spain 2. Portugal scores in extra time. Ronaldo kills the Spaniards.

As a result? Uruguay - USA, Netherlands - Brazil, Argentina - England, Paraguay - Portugal in the quarter finals. Tune in for predictions once the quarters are set. Until then I'll be blowing my Vuvuzela.