So the NHL playoffs are in full swing. For me, this is a great time of year, especially since it's the third straight year that the home team, the Phoenix Coyotes, have made the postseason.
I do have one problem though. A certain set of bandwagoners who pretty much ignored the Coyotes all season. This set comprises the local sportscasters here in Phoenix. These are the guys who lead with meaningful NFL draft stories in January while the Coyotes are fighting for a playoff birth. These are the guys who give the score in their segment while showing highlights of how the Suns got blown out by the Clippers. These are the guys who think that just because the seats aren't filled they shouldn't cover the 'Yotes. But if it's the DBacks then it's just fine.
The problem comes in that now that they are in the Playoffs and on the verge of winning their first round series that all of a sudden the Coyotes are the most important piece of sports news. One of the stations who are guilty of the aforementioned non-coverage actually sent their sports crew to Chicago to cover games 3 and 4. Talk about jumping on the bandwagon.
As a loyal fan who watched the season from Game 1 through now I just have one word for this set of bandwagoners - GET OFF! You didn't care about them when they were in the regular season. You didn't really care when they pretty much were the best team in Hockey during the month of February. You didn't really care that they won the Pacific division. You only care now because it gives you a positive sports story in a town where only one team has been consistently making the playoffs.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Trust and Boundaries
We had an interesting weekend. Our oldest, Levi (who is high functioning autistic), has been playing a video game at a friends house and really wanted it. The game is rated 'M' and that gave us pause. We really don't want games with that rating in the house.
Trust:
We discussed our concerns with Levi. He was explaining that the game wasn't that bad. So we went online and read reviews and opinions. A lot of the opinions expressed that the game should be rated 'T' instead of 'M'. We talked with the father of the friend to get his take. Finally, we decided to check the game out ourselves and see what it was about. Game Stop is good for this. They have a 7 day return policy on Previously Owned games so it gave us a chance to look at the game and try it out. So we picked the game up and had Levi show us what it was all about.
Boundaries:
After watching the game we decided that it was inappropriate for our house. This is something that is personal to us. It is something we are not comfortable with. Now we had to explain to Levi the reasons why we felt the game was inappropriate. It took several "sessions" along with a promise to work with Levi to find appropriate games that can be a part of our house. This morning it finally clicked (or at least seemed to) with Levi. We did some searching and have found a game that could be as fun and that can be played in our home. We will be taking back the 'M' game and getting the other game.
Results:
The results are pending. I have a good feeling that the new game will keep Levi happy. I also think that Levi has learned that we will work with him to ensure that video games we get are "fun" but also appropriate for our household. It will always be a work in progress, but I have great hopes that this weekend is a spring board for other conversations that will be had as we get older. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Trust:
We discussed our concerns with Levi. He was explaining that the game wasn't that bad. So we went online and read reviews and opinions. A lot of the opinions expressed that the game should be rated 'T' instead of 'M'. We talked with the father of the friend to get his take. Finally, we decided to check the game out ourselves and see what it was about. Game Stop is good for this. They have a 7 day return policy on Previously Owned games so it gave us a chance to look at the game and try it out. So we picked the game up and had Levi show us what it was all about.
Boundaries:
After watching the game we decided that it was inappropriate for our house. This is something that is personal to us. It is something we are not comfortable with. Now we had to explain to Levi the reasons why we felt the game was inappropriate. It took several "sessions" along with a promise to work with Levi to find appropriate games that can be a part of our house. This morning it finally clicked (or at least seemed to) with Levi. We did some searching and have found a game that could be as fun and that can be played in our home. We will be taking back the 'M' game and getting the other game.
Results:
The results are pending. I have a good feeling that the new game will keep Levi happy. I also think that Levi has learned that we will work with him to ensure that video games we get are "fun" but also appropriate for our household. It will always be a work in progress, but I have great hopes that this weekend is a spring board for other conversations that will be had as we get older. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Roll Tide. . . Whatever!
Alabama won last night's "BCS National Championship" game 21 - 0 over #1 ranked LSU. Shall we look at why Alabama was in the National Championship game?
Only in College football can this happen. Who did Alabama beat to earn the right to play for the national championship? Let's take a look at their schedule:
So let's break it down:
So tell me again why they were ranked #2? Oh yeah, a bunch of coaches were polled and some geeks (which I am one of) rated them based on some mythical formulas.
Don't get me wrong. Alabama played a dominant game. They had 43 days to prepare for it after all. But still, one wonders if the opinions of coaches and the points accumulated via various formulas didn't somehow favor them. What would have happened had they been forced to play their way in? Would they have made it? Possibly.
So today Roll Tide, you won a game that you were placed in instead of playing against the best teams who won their conferences. You are the BCS National Champions. Yeah, WHATEVER!
- Alabama won their division in the SEC. . . NO
- Alabama won the SEC Conference Championship. . . NO
- Alabama played a schedule where they beat other conference champions. . . NO
- Alabama played a team that could have played for the championship except Alabama beat them. . .NO
Only in College football can this happen. Who did Alabama beat to earn the right to play for the national championship? Let's take a look at their schedule:
- Kent State - Home Win 41 - 7
- #23 Penn State - Road Win 27 - 11
- North Texas - Home Win 41 - 0
- #14 Arkansas - Home Win 38 - 14
- #12 Florida - Road Win 38 - 10
- Vanderbilt - Home Win 34 - 0
- Ole Miss - Road Win 52 - 7
- Tennessee - Home Win 37 - 6
- LSU - Home Loss 9 - 6 OT
- Mississippi State - Road Win 24 - 7
- Georgia Southern - Home Win 45 - 21
- #24 Auburn Road Win 42 - 14
So let's break it down:
- Played 1 team in the FCS which are not eligible to count towards a bowl game
- Winning percentage of the teams played - 60.1% (.601)
- 5 of the teams played had losing records
- Played 4 ranked teams, only one of which was ranked in the top 10 (1 - 1 record against that team - LSU)
So tell me again why they were ranked #2? Oh yeah, a bunch of coaches were polled and some geeks (which I am one of) rated them based on some mythical formulas.
Don't get me wrong. Alabama played a dominant game. They had 43 days to prepare for it after all. But still, one wonders if the opinions of coaches and the points accumulated via various formulas didn't somehow favor them. What would have happened had they been forced to play their way in? Would they have made it? Possibly.
So today Roll Tide, you won a game that you were placed in instead of playing against the best teams who won their conferences. You are the BCS National Champions. Yeah, WHATEVER!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Rushing to Christmas
It's the holiday season! And it feels to me like we are all in the following state of mind:
Here is the link: Sally's Christmas Letter
Does it seem like we are rushing to get presents? Are we trying to get our "Fair Share"?
Christmas is a time for giving it is true. But we should remember the true meaning of Christmas and maybe we would be wise to follow the example of shepherds over 2000 years ago (Luke 2:8-7, emphasis added):
The shepherds made haste to view the savior that was promised. They didn't rush to the local market to get gifts for everyone and their dog. They did rush to the site of the most wonderful event to occur up to that time. The birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.
I think we would do well to follow the example of the shepherds. That this Christmas we should rush to Him instead of rushing to the store. That we might follow the signs given to us today as the shepherds followed the signs the angel gave to them. That we might find him. Because as we sing:
It was through Him that reconcilement has been made, and it is through Him that we might receive mercy mild.
Sally: I've been looking for you big brother. Will you please write a letter to Santa Claus for me?
Charlie Brown: Well I don't have much time. I'm supposed to get down to the school auditorium and direct the Christmas Play.
Sally: You write it and I'll tell you what I want to say.
Charlie Brown: Ok, shoot.
Sally: Dear Santa Claus, How have you been? Did you have a nice summer? How is your wife? I have been extra good this year. So I have a long list of presents I want.
Charlie Brown: Oh Brother!
Sally: Please note the size and color of each item and send as many as possible. If it seems too complicated make it easy on yourself. Just send money. How about Tens and Twenties?
Charlie Brown: Tens and Twenties?! OHHHH!!! Even my baby sister!
Sally: All I want is what I have coming to me, all I want is my fair share.
Here is the link: Sally's Christmas Letter
Does it seem like we are rushing to get presents? Are we trying to get our "Fair Share"?
Christmas is a time for giving it is true. But we should remember the true meaning of Christmas and maybe we would be wise to follow the example of shepherds over 2000 years ago (Luke 2:8-7, emphasis added):
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
The shepherds made haste to view the savior that was promised. They didn't rush to the local market to get gifts for everyone and their dog. They did rush to the site of the most wonderful event to occur up to that time. The birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.
I think we would do well to follow the example of the shepherds. That this Christmas we should rush to Him instead of rushing to the store. That we might follow the signs given to us today as the shepherds followed the signs the angel gave to them. That we might find him. Because as we sing:
Hark the Herald Angels sing,
Glory to the newborn King.
Peace on Earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled.
It was through Him that reconcilement has been made, and it is through Him that we might receive mercy mild.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Time Flies and Can Be Too Short
Today is Levi's eleventh birthday. Seems like only yesterday that we were bringing him home. I can't really say where the time has gone. I do know this; recent events have made me realize that life's too short to miss time spent. Let me explain.
Not too long ago a friend of ours passed away from Brain Cancer. A few weeks ago we found out about another friend who went in for pancreatic cancer surgery and came out with a short life prognosis. A cousin of ours was also recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer stage 4. BAM! 3 instances of cancer. All 3 at different stages in their lives. All three too young.
It got me thinking about what I would miss if something like this happened to me. No parent should ever miss the graduations, weddings, grandchildren, and other torch passes that happen in life. As a parent, it made me realize that I need to enjoy the moments. Find joy in life now as nothing is guaranteed. Try to connect more and disconnect less. Take the time to show love, not just say it.
So I'm trying to be more aware of the moments. To love a little more. To laugh a lot more. To keep the frustration down (not easy that one). To be positive. In essence to be a better Husband, Father, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Friend.
And so I reflect on the last eleven years of my life. When our family grew from two to three. Reflect on all the good times. To know that as we are now seven, there are more chances to enjoy life. Maybe, just maybe I can make the memories that will last for more than my lifetime.
Not too long ago a friend of ours passed away from Brain Cancer. A few weeks ago we found out about another friend who went in for pancreatic cancer surgery and came out with a short life prognosis. A cousin of ours was also recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer stage 4. BAM! 3 instances of cancer. All 3 at different stages in their lives. All three too young.
It got me thinking about what I would miss if something like this happened to me. No parent should ever miss the graduations, weddings, grandchildren, and other torch passes that happen in life. As a parent, it made me realize that I need to enjoy the moments. Find joy in life now as nothing is guaranteed. Try to connect more and disconnect less. Take the time to show love, not just say it.
So I'm trying to be more aware of the moments. To love a little more. To laugh a lot more. To keep the frustration down (not easy that one). To be positive. In essence to be a better Husband, Father, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Friend.
And so I reflect on the last eleven years of my life. When our family grew from two to three. Reflect on all the good times. To know that as we are now seven, there are more chances to enjoy life. Maybe, just maybe I can make the memories that will last for more than my lifetime.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
To Relegate Or Not To Relegate
A story has come out where the owners of certain English Premier League football (soccer) teams want to banish the relegation system. Of course these owners are from foreign lands and so relegation would negatively affect their pocketbooks. But maybe I'm getting ahead of myself.
Each season the English Premier League plays it's matches and there is one table for standings. The top teams get to play in the European cup leagues. The bottom three are relegated. What is relegation? Let's use Major League Baseball as an example.
Today let's say the three teams with the worst record in Baseball were relegated. What would happen is that next year they would play in AAA baseball. The top three AAA teams would be promoted to Major League Baseball and play at those levels. Players would migrate from the relegated teams to other Major League teams.
This is what happens in the English Premier League. The bottom three teams get relegated to the First Division. The top First Division teams get promoted and play with the big boys the next season.
I love this system. Why? Because it makes those end of season games meaningful to the teams facing relegation. Could you imagine how hard a 4 - 11 team would play in its last game in the NFL if it knew that next year it might not be in the NFL? What about the end of the baseball season and all those games that don't have an affect on the playoffs? Could you imagine if the Royals and the Pirates were playing for their MLB lives in games 155 - 162? And what about the fans? Would the fans not come out to support the team to ensure that next year they had a Major League team?
This is what English football is all about. Passion and drive. Relegation makes it so that teams play hard throughout the season. They literally play for their Premiership lives. You get two races in effect. The race for league champion and the race to not be relegated. Imagine the lead in Sports Center if there was relegation in the major sports of America.
The foreign owners of the EPL teams need to understand that this is part of football and if they don't like relegation then they need to take the steps to put a quality product on the field. This in turn will bring fans as the team fights to move to the top and distance itself from the relegation zone.
Personally I would love to see relegation in the American Sports system, however that is unlikely. But think about the owners of teams who don't spend money on their product and what relegation would force them to do. I can see the squirming and I like it.
Each season the English Premier League plays it's matches and there is one table for standings. The top teams get to play in the European cup leagues. The bottom three are relegated. What is relegation? Let's use Major League Baseball as an example.
Today let's say the three teams with the worst record in Baseball were relegated. What would happen is that next year they would play in AAA baseball. The top three AAA teams would be promoted to Major League Baseball and play at those levels. Players would migrate from the relegated teams to other Major League teams.
This is what happens in the English Premier League. The bottom three teams get relegated to the First Division. The top First Division teams get promoted and play with the big boys the next season.
I love this system. Why? Because it makes those end of season games meaningful to the teams facing relegation. Could you imagine how hard a 4 - 11 team would play in its last game in the NFL if it knew that next year it might not be in the NFL? What about the end of the baseball season and all those games that don't have an affect on the playoffs? Could you imagine if the Royals and the Pirates were playing for their MLB lives in games 155 - 162? And what about the fans? Would the fans not come out to support the team to ensure that next year they had a Major League team?
This is what English football is all about. Passion and drive. Relegation makes it so that teams play hard throughout the season. They literally play for their Premiership lives. You get two races in effect. The race for league champion and the race to not be relegated. Imagine the lead in Sports Center if there was relegation in the major sports of America.
The foreign owners of the EPL teams need to understand that this is part of football and if they don't like relegation then they need to take the steps to put a quality product on the field. This in turn will bring fans as the team fights to move to the top and distance itself from the relegation zone.
Personally I would love to see relegation in the American Sports system, however that is unlikely. But think about the owners of teams who don't spend money on their product and what relegation would force them to do. I can see the squirming and I like it.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
We Be Loyal Scouts
If you saw any of my status updates earlier in the week you saw that our oldest son, Levi, earned his Cub Scout Webelos badge. This is an amazing achievement given the fact that only a few short months ago Levi did not like Cub Scouts.
Raising a special needs child (Levi is High-functioning Autistic) is a challenge. It's not only a challenge for us as parents, but it is a challenge for Levi himself. At some things he has to work harder than others and Scouts is definitely something he has worked hard at. A couple of pictures of Levi at Pack Meeting this week (he's the taller one).
This is a time to be proud as a parent. It's also a time to thank the leaders and others in Cub Scouts who have helped Levi along the way. I know they worked as hard as Levi did in order for him to qualify for this award. Hopefully getting this award will propel Levi to continue in Scouting where he will learn a lot of life skills and continue his achievements.
Raising a special needs child (Levi is High-functioning Autistic) is a challenge. It's not only a challenge for us as parents, but it is a challenge for Levi himself. At some things he has to work harder than others and Scouts is definitely something he has worked hard at. A couple of pictures of Levi at Pack Meeting this week (he's the taller one).
This is a time to be proud as a parent. It's also a time to thank the leaders and others in Cub Scouts who have helped Levi along the way. I know they worked as hard as Levi did in order for him to qualify for this award. Hopefully getting this award will propel Levi to continue in Scouting where he will learn a lot of life skills and continue his achievements.
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