BIOTIKOLOGY

"Speaking" to Others

2011-03-25T22:43:00.000-06:00

"Be still, and know that I am God." This verse comes from Psalm 46:10, and is easily my favorite verse of the Bible. There is peace in those eight words, and amazing perspective. Many times in my life I have felt like things are spinning out of control, most-likely because I am trying too hard to control them. But this verse reels me back into reality, and helps me find a little serenity. I'm not a Bible know-it-all by any stretch. In fact, truth be told, I had to do a Google search to figure out in which book this verse lives. I don't have a verse for every situation, and frankly, I don't want one.

I don't want, or even need, that much Biblical knowledge because I have discovered that most verses really don't satisfy me the way some say they should. And I believe the reason is because that's not how I hear. I have my one favorite verse, as I mentioned, and I don't really need much else. I "hear" more through my eyes than anything. I'd rather witness a sunset, or watch a thunderstorm, or share a few laughs with my wife, kids, and friends rather than hear or read Bible verses. Living life and savoring the God-given moments do more for me. To those who find comfort in the Bible, hey, more power to you. We're all different.

A discussion with my sister-in-law ensued over the weekend that inspired this post. Kristin is full of love and compassion, and has lived through some life situations which would have forced many of us to fold. She seems to find her comfort in the Bible, and in her faith. Her knowledge of the Bible is phenomenal, and her faith unmatched. She draws on her life situations and her relationship with God in her attempts to comfort those who are struggling with their own issues. Her intentions are nothing short of pure.

Unfortunately, she's experienced some less-than-desirable outcomes from those whom she's tried to comfort. Which leads me to wonder if maybe she's just trying too hard? I get the feeling that on average, people really don't want to hear about God when they are down or when they are struggling or when we think they need to hear about God. It really seems to drive them away more often than not. I don't know why - maybe it's because we're human and we are looking for an immediate fix to our problems, and God doesn't always work that way. In fact, God seldom works that way, I'd say.

I don't have all the answers, or solutions, and I may be wrong here, but maybe it's better that we lead quietly and by example. We can comfort others if we can find a way to speak to them in which they'll actually hear, but if we can't, maybe just listening to them, loving them, and being someone they can look up to from time-to-time is enough. Seems better than driving them away with something they aren't willing to digest.

"Be still, and know that I am God." Seems like the big guy is saying, "Hey, I got this one. I've been doing this a long time, so just let me handle it in my way."

Thoughts?

Resurrecting the Blog

2011-03-18T10:13:00.000-06:00

April 29th, 2009. That is the date of my last post on Biotikology. I've just spent some time going back through some of my old posts, and have come to realize how much I miss writing and sharing my thoughts through this forum. Even more so, I miss reflecting on the thoughts of others. I have tinkered with the idea of just writing on facebook, but for various reasons, I'm leaning in the direction of resurrecting this old blog. I have also discovered (I think) that I can share this blog on facebook each time I write a new post. I've probably lost many of the followers of this old blog, but I hope to find them again, as well as maybe some new ones.

So that's my general randomness for today. Nothing special. I'll have more in the days and weeks to come, and as life continues to unfold. I'm back.........

Training: Evolution

2009-04-29T08:56:00.002-06:00

It has taken me awhile to find the courage to write this particular post, mostly because I have spent the last couple of weeks wrestling with disappointment and frustration. If you weren't already aware, I injured my Achilles tendon during a training run several days ago and have worked diligently to condition it back to the point of being able to handle long runs, and ultimately, the marathon. Both my physical therapist and I thought we were making good progress with the aggressive treatment, but I attempted another long run about a week after the original injury, and only made it about five miles before having to walk again. To make a long story short, I never had another opportunity to get a long run in again before needing to wind down for the marathon, which is this Sunday. It became painfully evident that this particular marathon was not in my future, so I made the difficult decision of bowing out.

As mentioned, the entire chain of events is disappointing as the ultimate goal will not be reached. At least not this time. At first, I stewed and fretted, fretted and stewed over all of the hard work I had put in that was now being flushed down the toilet. Weeks and weeks of running in the bitter cold, snow, wind, and rain just to make sure all of the training miles were achieved. And nothing to show for it. But, once I pulled my head out of my you-know-what, I began to realize just how much I can take away from this entire experience. Here's just the beginning of the list:

I have kick-started my weight-loss once again, and am down nearly twenty pounds since beginning the training in January. I will see to it that this continues, which will only help my efforts should I decide to run a marathon again.
I have physically done more than I ever thought possible.
I have discovered how much the physical body, when pushed, will succumb to the brains mental toughness.
While it might sound cheesy, I have learned that I can do whatever I want if only I will give myself the proper chance and effort.

What I am most proud of, though, is the inspiration I have provided to others through my efforts. Two of my coworkers followed my lead and began training several weeks ago to run the half-marathon. And, when my brother learned that I had made the decision to tackle the marathon, he chose to train and run with me. While I am saddened that we will not be running together on Sunday, I am incredibly proud of him and I will be at the starting line to cheer him on, and at the finish line to welcome him home.

As you can see, I have chosen to focus on what I have taken from this experience instead of what I haven't. I am a better person for it, I believe, and I will continue to push forward and consider another marathon in the future. Thanks to all who have supported me with their words, thoughts, and prayers! I know I wouldn't have made it as far as I did without you. And finally, to my dear brother Chris: Godspeed on your journey in a few days! I love you, and can't wait to watch you cross the finish line!!

Training: Hope

2009-04-09T09:08:00.002-06:00

There is hope for my chances of running the marathon, and thankfully, lots of it. As mentioned in my last post, I headed to the doctor on Tuesday afternoon for an assessment of my injured Achilles tendon. By the time I got there, I wasn't so much worried about the pain, as there was just a lingering dull ache. Nothing excruciating. However, there was definitely an odd feeling to the tendon as it sort of felt like bubble wrap underneath my skin when I flexed it. I know, a terrible description, but I'm not entirely sure how else to describe it.

The doctor said I had definitely tweaked it, and the weird feeling was from fluid buildup around the tendon. He told me I needed to back off the miles I was running, to which I argued that I was training for the marathon and couldn't much afford to back off. And then the doctor pretty much put the fear of God into me by telling me what I had to look forward to should I rupture the tendon by pushing too hard. Surgery, rehab, and out for six-to-twelve months. And even that would not guarantee I would get the tendon back to it's original strength. Okay, backing off.

I was prescribed some anti-inflammatory pills and a couple of weeks of aggressive physical therapy, meaning the doctor wasn't completely ruling out the possibility of still running the marathon. I had my first round of therapy this morning, and am very much encouraged by the prognosis. The therapist indicated he thought I would be able to go through with it, as long as the tendon responds well. He wants to see me again tomorrow morning, and then on Monday and Wednesday of next week. While I do have to back off the mileage, he thought I should be able to get back to a long run my mid-week next week. Again, all of this assuming that I respond well to the therapy.

So, I'm keeping my hopes up and my fingers crossed, and continuing to pray about it all. While I will have to do some reconfiguring of my training schedule, I really think I'll be able to get back to proper shape before the marathon, and can be successful at it. To all of you who have supported, encouraged, prayed for, and sent positive thoughts my way - THANK YOU!! It has meant so much to me, and has helped me to keep my head up and continue to press forward. I know I would not be where I am in the training without your help. I will continue to keep you updated as to how things progress from here.

Training: Gulp!

2009-04-07T08:32:00.002-06:00

First of all, yes, I am still amongst the living. I know it's been way too long since the last time I posted and honestly, I feel horrible about it. I had intended on journaling via my blog throughout my training, but have been lax about it. I won't make any excuses, not because I don't have them, but rather because I don't want to bore you.

To catch up with training, the last few weeks have been a bit rough. The shorter runs are fantastic, but the long run of the week has proven to be a challenge. I have been continually frustrated by the longer distances, and while I would like to blame it on the weather, if I'm being honest with myself, it's probably more of a lack of mental toughness. And now, fast-forward to yesterday.

Yesterday was my long run of the week, which was 18 miles. That is the longest distance I will run before the marathon itself, I and I'm scheduled to run that distance three times before tapering off and beginning final preparations. After the last few weeks, yesterday's 18 miles intimidated the heck out of me. But I spent some extra moments of silence and quiet reflection before beginning the run. I talked to God, prayed, and really dug down deep in terms of why I had begun this adventure in the first place. In terms of weather yesterday, it was incredibly windy and cold. 30-35 mph gusts of wind greeted me as I began. Nevertheless, as I set out on the run, it was shaping up to be one of the best runs I've had. I felt strong, my legs were churning right along, and my entire body felt more in sync and physically able than ever before. I had a smile on my face as I completed mile after mile with little problem.

And then the unthinkable happened. With about six miles left, I felt an unfamiliar, and undesirable pull in my left Achilles tendon, and then the pain set in. It crippled me enough that I could no longer run, and could walk only with a limp. I cannot describe the discouragement I felt as I was forced to walk the remaining six miles. All the weeks and days of training, and all of the effort I've put into preparing for the marathon ran through my head. The possibility of having to miss the crowning achievement brought me to tears.

So today, I wait. I am scheduled to see the doctor this afternoon and will know more after that appointment. In the meantime, I am praying and hoping for the best, but admittedly fearing the worst.

Training: Half-Way There!

2009-03-08T18:01:00.002-06:00

Today marked the end of my eighth week of marathon training, which means I am halfway through the program. I ran a tough 14 miles today to cap the week, and am really feeling it right now. Sore knees, sore ankles, sore feet. Fortunately, my wife blessed me with a massage gift certificate for my birthday. Think I'll be using that this week!

At any rate, the best part of today's run was when I achieved what the book refers to as "flow." The authors go pretty in-depth in explaining flow, but suffice it to say that it's a state of the mind when nearly everything seems effortless. Athletes often experience flow, and according to the book, many have mastered the ability to create it on demand, as opposed to waiting for it to appear by chance. I worked pretty hard on achieving flow today, and for about three miles I believe I found it. It takes some effort, and lots of mental mastery as a person really needs to be able to shut out everything else going on around him/her. Not the easiest thing to accomplish, but when I did get there, those three miles went very fast and were easily the best part of my run.

I will work dutifully this week in achieving flow quicker and using it more as the runs continue to get longer and longer. And as always, at the end of another training week, I am thankful for the aches and pains as they signify that my body is repairing, recovering, and that I have my physical health.

Training: Catching Up

2009-03-03T09:17:00.003-06:00

It's been a whirlwind of a couple weeks and I have lagged severely in keeping up-to-date on my marathon training efforts. In fact, I was actually surprised to learn that I hadn't mentioned anything since after week #4 of the training, and here I am beginning week #8 already. I won't bore you too much with all the details, but suffice it to say that I am still in the game, and feeling better about my efforts now than I have since I began. Last week was particularly rough, as the long run was 11 miles and it was very grueling. I felt like I walked more than I ran, and ended up very discouraged. The book I'm using talks a lot about the mental aspect, and includes testimonials from folks who have been through the training in the past. Several of those testimonials seemed to coincide with exactly what I was experiencing after last Sunday. Several mentioned their bodies being worn down, and their inability to finish a run without walking. In so much as I was discouraged after my tough run, I was encouraged to learn I wasn't alone, if that makes any sense.

That was all week #6. Week #7 was much kinder, and I found myself really pushing my pace on the shorter runs of the week, and having some success with it. Finally, this last Sunday was a twelve mile run to end the week. Was I nervous? Absolutely. In fact, I was flat scared. But I'll be darned if I didn't finish that twelve miles feeling the best yet. Sure, my legs were dog tired and felt like rubber, but I still had the mental and physical stamina to finish the run. So, I'm pretty much feeling on top of the world at this point, and as I begin the eighth week of the program. I've racked up a total of 138 miles since I began the training, and will be half-way home at the end of this week with a total of 166 miles.

As I celebrate my 37th birthday today, I am so glad to have made the decision to follow through with this training. I have already said I probably won't do another marathon, as the training takes a lot of time. But, I have definitely found a new appreciation for running and what it has done for my body both mentally and physically. And, I've learned that despite my age, I'm really not too old to continue to challenge myself. Us silly humans really can do anything we decide to put our minds to, of that I am convinced. Heck, I'm proving it!

Post-Plunge Pontification

2009-02-21T13:17:00.002-06:00

The marquee on the way to the lake this morning read a balmy 19 degrees outside, but that wasn't so much what I was worried about. I can handle 19 degrees. In fact, for winter in Nebraska, 19 degrees is a pretty decent temp. What concerned me, though, was the 25-30 m.p.h. wind gusting out of the North. I never saw an official reading, but my best guess would have put the wind chill at just above zero, and that's away from the lake. Standing in the wind coming right off of Holmes Lake, the stage for today's Polar Plunge, I would have guessed the wind chill to have dipped below zero. Oh yeah, it was cold. Definitely a perfect stage for a "Polar" Plunge.

Despite the temps, though, Plungers turned out in great numbers this morning to help raise money for Special Olympics. The event seems to be growing every year, with more and more people "taking the plunge." I have no clue as to just how much money was raised overall, but I would have to say several thousands of dollars. It was an incredible sight! In fact, I would venture to say the organizers of the event will have to do some serious planning for next year, as things moved pretty slow and un-methodical this morning due to the unexpected numbers. As much as I complained about the entire process, from registration to the actual plunge itself, in hindsight, it's a good problem to have.

And yes, the plunge itself this morning was everything it promised to be - very, very cold. It's funny how the body reacts when hit with extreme temperatures such as this morning. My brain was moving at breakneck speed to get in and out of the water, but my body just wasn't having it. I felt like I was in a big vat of icy cold, thick mud. I....just....couldn't........move! And then there's the task of trying to change after getting out of said vat of proverbial mud. Fingers are numb, toes are numb. Okay, so, the whole body is pretty much numb. My teeth even hurt.

But hey, it's for a fantastic cause, and it's all over again until next year. My team had another blast pulling this off, and I once again want to give a huge shout out to all the folks who so graciously donated, both monetarily and with words and expressions of encouragement and support. All of you people rock! Until next year.....

Polar Plunge!

2009-02-14T15:49:00.002-06:00

It just dawned on me...I don't think I've ever posted anything on my blog about this years' Polar Plunge. Doh! I know I put a note on my Facebook page, but I don't know how many folks read that and I'm sure there are those who read this blog but don't read Facebook. Anyway....

Hey - I am just 7 days away from participating in the Polar Plunge again this year to raise money for Special Olympics. I love this organization and what they stand for, and what they do for those who use their services. It's a wonderful cause, and one in which I am proud to support. I know times are tough right now, and I know not everyone is able to give. I totally understand - my family is pinching serious pennies right now, too. But, if you happen to have an extra dollar or two laying around that needs a home, would you consider throwing it towards Special Olympics, Nebraska? Your efforts help fund the Special Olympics, giving special needs folks wonderful opportunities to compete in athletic events, and more importantly, help raise their self-worth. It is truly fantastic!

Please visit my fund-raising page at http://www.firstgiving.com/bigkev. This site is completely safe, and totally secure. That said, if you would feel better about a personal check, feel free to mail one to my address, made out to Special Olympics, Nebraska. You can mail it to the following:

Kevin Campbell
131 Sante Fe Trail
Lincoln, NE. 68521

Thanks so much for your consideration - I am nearing the halfway point of my $1000 goal, so any help you can provide would be most-appreciated. And a big thanks to those who have already donated - THANK YOU!!

Training: Week #4 Recap

2009-02-11T12:57:00.002-06:00

So, I'm a month into my training now. Four weeks have gone by since I began, which means I'm exactly 1/4 of the way through the program. By the way, I don't remember if I've mentioned what book I'm using. It's titled The Non-Runner's Marathon Trainer, by David Whitsett and Forest Dolgener. It's an easy read, and an easy-to-follow program for getting in shape to run a marathon. And it doesn't matter how much running experience you have, which makes it perfect for someone like me who used to despise running. Also, I'm using several tips from The Complete Idiot's Guide To Running, 2nd Edition. This book was given to me by my dear friend Alex after I first began expressing the idea of running a marathon.

Anyway, back to the training. Week #4 seemed to be a turning point, of sorts. I came through week #3 pretty sore and somewhat discouraged, wondering if my body could handle this intense training. I had begun to question myself, and whether I could really make a go of this thing. I was laying in bed at nights unable to sleep because my feet hurt, my knees hurt, my legs were sore, etc. I tried to stay as positive as possible, and tell myself it was all a part of adjusting to a kind of physical activity the likes of which my body has never been close to attempting. A friend of mine who has some marathon experience, sympathized with me. He made a comment something to the effect of, "Your body is telling you have absolutely no business putting it through this kind of intensity, that you are way too out of shape to even consider something like this. It's rebelling, big time. But your brain is forcing the issue, and your body can't compete with the brain." Thanks, Mr. Tate. You're exactly correct.

So I began week #4 with everything I had left, and things went much better. It seems my body is beginning to accept the fact that it is going to run, and it is going to run a lot. I added another 18 miles to the 49 I had amassed, bringing my total to 67 as of last Sunday. Sunday's eight-mile run wasn't necessarily an easy one, but it did go much better than expected. I have found a curious problem in all of this training, though. The short runs, which are between 3 and 5 miles, seem to be tougher than the long runs of the week. I don't quite get that, other than the possibility that it's a mental thing. I wonder if I'm thinking the short runs will be pieces of cakes compared to the long runs, and am kind of psyching myself out? Not sure, but that will be the next hurdle to overcome. I'd really like ALL the runs to be enjoyable, but right now, I'm having trouble enjoying the shorter ones.

So here I am, already into week #5. Two 3-mile runs, a 5-mile run, and a 10-mile run will be the order of the week, and I've already done one of the 3's and the 5. I have the other 3 on Friday, sandwiched between a couple of off-days, and then the 10-mile trek on Sunday. My brother, who is also training, predicted it would be quite a feeling to have run 10 miles. I fully concur, and look forward to accomplishing the feat. Thanks for all the support, prayers, and ongoing advice!!

Training: Week #3 Recap

2009-02-03T11:41:00.003-06:00

My third week of training was, in a word, ugly. And in two words, it was real ugly. After so much success in the second week, I was quite frustrated at the end of last week. It all began shortly after the six-mile run to cap the second week, which went so well. I was preparing to feed the dogs and had to bend kind of awkwardly in order to reach more dog food, and as I did so my back tweaked just right and about dropped me to my knees. Yeah, it hurt. Unfortunately, said tweak left its mark and caused me lots of annoying pain through the week, which in turn made running much more of a chore than it should have been. I tried to press through, and did, but it was sloppy and I never quite felt in sync while running. To say the three and four mile runs on Tuesday and Wednesday were a struggle would be an understatement. It just seemed as though my body was rebelling, as the aches and pains were quite prevalent.

Friday's three mile run was much better, though, and one of the fastest runs I've had since beginning the training. That was encouraging and I felt as though the seven-mile run on Sunday would be just fine. And it probably would have been, except that Mother Nature decided to drop a very nice little mixture of snow and ice on the ground. Just to spite me, I'm sure of it. At any rate, the run was another ugly one, as I spent most of it trying to avoid injury and slipping and sliding my way through the route. Bless my dear wife, who is ever the positive one, as she looked me in the eye when I got home and said, "But you made it, right?" Yes, yes I did make it. Still, I couldn't help but think about how tough the third week was, and I even began to wonder if this marathon idea was really a smart one.

But, I've said it before and I'll say it again: this training is every bit mental as it is physical. Period. I could simply give up, or I could rise to the extra challenge and press forward. Remember the Shield of Faith I spoke about in my last blog? I picked it up, read the verse, and vowed to myself never to give up. First, I've already come to far to stop now. Second, God and my family are with me. And third, I've already paid the registration fee and I'll be damned if I let that go to waste!

After Sunday's run, I had 48 miles of training logged. I ran my three mile route today and am already feeling much better about this week. A bit of a change this week, too, as the four-mile run changes to five miles, and the long run of the week is eight miles. At weeks' end, I'll have 67 miles of training logged. Woah. Crazy. I love it! I'm a marathoner, and here I come!

Training: Day #8

2009-01-26T10:07:00.002-06:00

Last Friday evening, I had the pleasure of joining Mandi at the church for an evening of fellowship, dinner, and games with her MOPS (Mothers Of PreSchoolers) group. As usual, it was an enjoyable evening and I was blessed to have the opportunity. The group began the evening by giving an appreciation gift to those of us dads whose wives are on the leadership team for the group. The gift was a keychain in the shape of a shield, and called the shield of faith. On the back is printed the Bible verse from Joshua 1:9, which says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." As I read this verse, I was immediately struck by the relevance as I continue my training for the marathon.

Fast forward to last night, and the final day of the second full week of training. Yesterday's long run was a six-mile journey, and one of which I was terrified. I honestly did not believe I had the endurance to run an entire six miles without having to walk at least a small portion. I didn't feel like I was being negative, rather, simply realistic. After dressing for the cold and light falling snow, I went into my room for a few moments of silence. I literally got down on my knees, bowed my head, and thanked God for the blessing of health and the ability to even try this marathon training. I didn't ask for God's assistance during the impending run, I simply offered my thanks. I then stood, read the verse printed on the aforementioned Shield of Faith, placed it in the palm of my hand, and put my glove on over it. Out the door I went.

Trudging through the snow and facing a light, but bitter, North wind, I made my way along the previously mapped six-mile route. As I ran, my thoughts turned to my wife who has been so gracious in her support of this crazy idea. Even as I left, she looked me in the eye and told me she believed in me, and that she knew I could complete this run. I thought of my kids, who have acted as my personal cheerleading squad. And, I continued to clutch the Shield of Faith with every step. As I entered the final leg of the run, it became obvious to me that these last two weeks of training are beginning to pay off. Not once did I walk, even after climbing some pretty decent hills. Not once did I stop. I was feeling the burn, but not enough to force me to quit. As I took the last few steps of the run, I extended my arms in the air to celebrate my personal victory. This training is every bit mental as it is physical, and I had just overcome a mental block. You bet I was celebrating, and I didn't care how many people passing me on 1st Street thought I was nuts or wondered what I was doing. It was a great feeling!

I now have 31 miles under my belt over the last two weeks, and am ready for week #3 beginning tomorrow.

Training, Day #7

2009-01-23T22:38:00.003-06:00

Today was another ugly Nebraska winter day, albeit fairly typical. Bitterly cold winds, and an afternoon dose of snow amounting to a couple of inches. And I was due for a three-mile run as part of my training. As I cuddled on the couch with my four-year-old daughter and enjoyed the warmth and protection of the cozy house, I couldn't help but wonder if I would be better off waiting until tomorrow to run. Not that I had any proof that tomorrow's weather would be at all better, but at least there was no snow in the forecast. The notion of waiting was becoming more and more inviting.

But, alas! My beautiful, wonderful wife walked through the door at approximately 3:30, and promptly told me that she had seen three different people out running this afternoon, and figured they must be training for a marathon to be dedicated enough to run in this weather.

Sigh.

That did it. I had no choice but to run today. So, I strapped on the new running shoes and all the cold-weather gear, and out the door I went. Make no mistake, it was a tough run. I have actually found the last few three-mile runs to be getting much easier, but as you can probably imagine, today's was difficult. High-stepping through snow-drifts added a much different element, but I didn't quit. Mother Nature didn't defeat me today. Had the run been much longer, I can't say I would have made it without walking, but it wasn't longer, and I did make it. Sunday is the long run of the week, and it's a six-mile jaunt. Snow is in the forecast for Sunday, so I'm going to get an early start and hope things go well. More on how it goes next week.

Training, Recap

2009-01-22T10:17:00.003-06:00

Time has escaped me over the course of the last week or so, leaving me with little opportunity to post on the last few days of marathon training. Rather than go into great detail, which would surely make for a long story, I'll simply recap some of what I have learned to this point in the training.

During the run on day #3 of the training, which was just a three-mile jaunt, I learned a hard lesson. That is, always go to the bathroom right before leaving for the run. Wow, did I have to pee about halfway through the run that day, and all the movement of running wasn't helping my poor bladder. Not good. I had to go so bad that I felt like I needed to run faster, but the faster I ran, the harder it was to control. I was a raging mess by the time I got home. I'll just leave it at that....

Day #4 was a five-mile run, which was the longest distance I've ever run in my life. I mapped out a run that took me along what had to be the hilliest in town. Dumb. Real dumb. I ended up walking about six blocks in order to make it past some of those monster hills, but I did learn that it is okay to walk now and again. Walking doesn't equal failure. Not finishing the run because I refuse to walk here and there does equal failure.

Yesterday was day #6, and I learned that I had been starting out my training runs at a pace that was far too fast for me. This was hindering my ability to finish the runs. Yesterday was a 4-mile run, and I started out a bit slower, kept that same pace all the way, and finished with no problems! Lesson learned - slow down!

I have learned that training for a marathon is every bit mental as it is physical. Staying positive and learning to shut out potential distractions such as weather, aches, exhaustion, etc., is just as grinding as the actual physical aspect of training.

And finally, I have learned to leave the headphones at home. The book I am following for this training suggested not listening to music while on training runs for a couple of reasons. I wasn't happy about that, because I used the music as motivation to keep going, or even just to get started. After leaving the headphones at home yesterday, I was surprised how little I missed them. I was also surprised at how well it worked to run without them. So, I shall leave them at home from now on.

All in all, training is going very well to this point. I have run a total of 22 miles now, and by the end of this training week, I'll have put in 31 miles. I am feeling stronger all the time, and I feel like my body is getting used to the grind of the longer distances. So far, I've been lucky to avoid any injuries outside of the usual aches and pains of training my body. My confidence continues to grow the further I push forward in this process, and I'm excited for continued results!

Training, Day #2: Windwhipped

2009-01-14T13:53:00.002-06:00

As I type this, I am unable to feel my nose, lips, and most of the top layers of skin on the front of my body. Frankly, I'm not even sure if my nipples are still intact 'cause I can't feel them, either. Today's run was difficult, and yes, bitterly cold. It was a four-mile jaunt today, and the first half went very well. I felt great, had a ton of energy, and as I approached the half-way mark, I felt as though I could fairly easily complete the run.

And then I turned around.

As I began the second-half of the trek, I realized why the first-half was easier. I had the 20-30 mph wind at my back! Now, I was forced to take Mother Nature head on for two miles while she struggled to get her temperature to ten degrees. It was a tough one today, folks. I ended up having to walk around six or seven blocks, but what motivated me to get moving again was the fact that my sweat-soaked clothes were beginning to freeze to my skin, and then I tried to spit and sort of slobbered all over myself because my lips were frozen. Not good.

But, I'm darn sure not giving up that easy. I'll keep plugging away, and I may even be more motivated than ever. I did learn that I need to invest in some decent running clothes that will help keep the moisture away from my skin. I hear Under Armour is supposed to be some pretty good stuff, although kind of expensive. Anyone else have suggestions?

I'll be back at it on Friday with day #3. Until then, anyone have any nipple cream?????

Training, Day #1, Take Two

2009-01-13T09:30:00.004-06:00

Nope, I didn't make a mistake in the title. Today actually was the first day of the sixteen-week training regimen leading up to the marathon as there has been just a slight change in plans. Originally, I was going to make Sundays the first day of the new training week, thus, last Sunday would have been the first day. In doing so, the longest runs of the week would have fallen on Fridays. That would have been all good for at least awhile, until those long runs started creeping over six, seven, eight, and all the way up to eighteen miles. Since Mandi goes to work on Friday mornings, and doesn't come home until just before I leave for work, long runs on Friday would have meant getting out of my warm, cozy bed at the crack of dawn in order to get the run in before the day begins. Now, mind you, I don't mind running in the early morning, I just don't think I would have had the time to make it happen.

In addition, since the marathon is on a Sunday, making that day the long run of the sixteenth week of training, it only seems logical. Plus, neither Mandi or I work on Sundays, so I have more time to run. Even more logical. You see, logic tends to escape me at first, and sometimes for quite awhile. Had I just turned the whole training schedule creation over to my wife in the first place, I wouldn't be writing this because she would have nailed it on the first try. Someday, I will learn. Someday.

So, my official start to training today was a good, three-mile run. Although it's a mere ten degrees out with a windchill of about zero (the weather channel says it feel like three below, and I believe it!), I still worked up a good sweat and feel great! Tomorrow, I will run four miles, then take a day off. Friday will be another three mile run, and finally the long run of the week on Sunday, which will be five miles. I'll keep you posted!

Training, Day #1

2009-01-11T14:16:00.002-06:00

Today launched the first day of the sixteen-week training regimen designed to get me to the point that I can run the Lincoln Marathon in May. Today's run was a three-mile one, and I was able to accomplish it without too many problems. I was slowed a bit by a stiff wind, which I didn't even realize was blowing until I made my way around Oak Lake and was in the wide open. Once I reached the half-way point of my run and turned around, that's when the wind smacked me in the face for quite awhile. I pressed through, though, and made it all the way with no stopping. For those of you reading this who are regular runners, three miles is most-likely nothing. Maybe even laughable. While it presented a bit of a challenge to me, I am looking forward to getting to the point where I, too, can say three miles isn't much. God willing, it'll happen!

I will run again on Tuesday (four miles, I believe) and will post my thoughts again then. I'm excited to have pushed myself to undertake this process, and am looking forward to seeing the ongoing results of my training!

T-minus 4 Days

2009-01-07T10:45:00.002-06:00

Including today, I have but four days left of preliminary training before the sixteen-week training regimen leading to the Lincoln Marathon on May 3rd. The goal of the preliminary training was to be able to run for thirty minutes without stopping. I have achieved that goal, and will run twice more this week before beginning the "real" training. At that point, the training will be based on miles rather than time.

As I've mentioned in the past, I'm certainly not looking to set any speed records throughout this entire effort. I am simply setting out to finish the marathon, and I have every confidence that this goal will be achieved. It's going to take lots of effort, lots of patience, and lots of understanding from my family in the way of needed time to train. I am looking forward to the challenges which lie ahead, and will continue to post updates during my progress.

My only request is for continued prayers for strength, endurance, and a little luck. The strength and endurance are obvious, but I need the luck to avoid the injury bug. I will make the commitment to do all of the proper stretching both before and after my runs, but will still need a touch of luck to avoid becoming injured. Thanks in advance for your blessings!!

What a Team!

2008-12-19T11:30:00.002-06:00

I offer my deepest apologies and regrets. I knew going into this Husker football season, with all of it's anticipation, questions, wonder, and excitement that something important might get ignored. Husker volleyball was put on the shelf as I poured myself in the goings on of the football team. Again, I offer my apologies, because I was ignorant. I wrote the Lady Huskers off at the beginning of the season because the team lost four, yes four, All-Americans and head coach John Cook red shirted a whole bunch of talent that could have potentially contributed to this year's campaign. I figured they would be good, but not great. I was wrong. Very wrong.

All the Ladies did was storm through the season undefeated until a shocking upset on October 29th at Colorado. They picked themselves up and kept steamrolling, then were defeated at Texas about three weeks later. Total losses on the season - two. Nothing short of amazing. After defeating Liberty and UAB in the first and second rounds of the NCAA tournament, it was on to Seattle for the regional semifinals. In the first match, the Huskers blasted Michigan three sets to none, then faced Washington. The Huskies jumped out to a 2-0 lead, putting the Huskers in a must-win situation over the next three sets to win the match. And that's exactly what they did. Even down 9-3 at one point in the final set, they battled back to defeat Washington and return to Omaha for the final four.

Their first match was against an incredible Penn State team, who was not only undefeated during the regular season, but hadn't even lost a set. 109 straight sets the Nittany Lions had won coming into last night's match. And they made it 111 straight after beating the Huskers convincingly in the first two sets. Once again, the Huskers' backs were against the ropes. It was Washington all over again, only this time they faced a much better team than Penn State. And once again, I made the mistake of writing them off. I've learned my lesson, ladies and gentlemen. The Huskers smoked Penn State in the next two sets to tie the match at two sets apiece, and came out firing for the fifth and final match to move onto the championship match. It was an amazing set, and the Huskers fought valiantly as they had all season. Penn State, thought, was too much this time and flexed their muscle to take the final set and advance.

So the Lady Huskers wrote the final chapter of their incredible 2008 season last night. A season which was much more than anyone, myself included, predicted. I can only imagine what next season will be with all of the talent Coach Cook has in store. Wow. And I make my solemn vow to never ignore this team again. Congratulations, Ladies!

GO BIG RED!!

I'm baaack!!!

2008-12-16T10:58:00.002-06:00

Yes, I am still alive, if you can believe it. It's been nearly a month since I last had anything to say, so in case you were wondering, I still exist. At least in my mind. It's been an exciting few weeks with lots of events, some of which I will get to in a bit.

But first, I need to address the topic of my last post regarding the macaroni and cheese. A good friend bestowed upon me the secret to mastering the preparation of this traditional gooey favorite, which was to add a touch of oil to the water before adding the pasta. The oil, supposedly, would prevent the foam on top of the water which tends to eventually boil over and create havoc for macaroni lovers everywhere. I tried it the very next week after my last post, and it failed miserably. The water still boiled over, and I still had a mess. I have no idea where to turn next, because I've tried it all. I've tried turning the heat down, I've tried the oil trick, and nothing, oh nothing, seems to be working. I have resigned myself to the fact that I am doomed to macaroni and cheese preparation HELL!

But I digress.

In the weeks since I began my blogging sabatical, we have enjoyed Thanksgiving with Mandi's folks in their new home in Weatherford, OK. It was a fantastic trip, and a memorable one. The kids have never been on such a long trip (about eight hours), but were entertained by the new portable DVD player, and other various activities we brought along. They did remarkably well, and much better than expected. We had a wonderful time with Mandi's folks, and of course, feasted heartily.

Another event, which was also taken in at the in-law's abode, was the regular-season finale for the Husker football team. I had expected them to handily defeat the Buffaloes of Colorado, but it was a much closer game which came right down to the wire. Some good ol' Husker excitment with an intercepted pass returned for a touchdown sealed the last-second victory for the Huskers. They finished the season 8-4, and very much improved from the last few years. The Huskers are going bowling on New Year's Day, and will battle Clemson in the Gator Bowl. Should be a good game, and I'm looking forward to one last hurrah for the season, then beginning the off-season chats, predictions, etc.

It seems impossible that we are approaching the end of the year already, but our house is decorated and ready for Christmas. We had an especially adventerous time putting up the decor this time, as we had of course never decorated this house. We just sort of went for it, and the house looks great! The outside lights have fallen a bit short, since many of the icicle lights were out or not working. I have replaced them with new ones, but have yet to complete the task of getting them on the roof. I finally had some time this morning, but as luck would have it the snow has fallen significantly making it tough to scale the roof, or the ladder for that matter. (Although, I did try. Once I was up on the roof, however, I realized just how stupid that decision was. I didn't stay up there for long as pictures of broken legs, arms, and other such appendages floated around in my bean.) Maybe another attempt will come this weekend, if it gets warm enough again to melt the fallen snow.

Well, that sort of catches you up a bit. I am forever coming across topics I would like to write about, but just have such trouble finding the time. Frustrating, to say the least. But I guess that means I'm busy, which means I have things going on, which means I have a life and am blessed with family, friends, and good health. Can't complain about that!

Merry Christmas, all!

The Ancient Art of Cheese and Macaroni Preparation

2008-11-19T13:35:00.004-06:00

In my continuing quest for culinary mastery of Kraft Cheese and Macaroni, I have reached a stage in which said mastery is seemingly within my grasp, yet forever elusive. It has become rather frustrating, yet for some reason, the pursuit of this mastery is irresistible. I liken it to the bug and the bug light concept. The bug sees the bug light, and simply can't resist being drawn towards it, all the while knowing that death is imminent. In much the same way, I am so close to achieving complete mastery of Kraft Cheese and Macaroni preparation, yet it's the final step, which I will get to in a minute, that does me in every time. But even knowing that I will be once again foiled by the final step does nothing for my resistance to trying.

Seriously, people, this is not something at which to laugh. It has been a long, hard journey towards striking just the right balance with macaroni and cheese. The first step was simply realizing there is no other boxed macaroni and cheese that compares to Kraft Cheese and Macaroni. Period. The competition is laughable, at best. I discovered this shortly after my dear wife began helping (demanding might be a better word) me to engage in a more frugal lifestyle. Some corners, I learned, just can't be cut. One such corner is quality boxed macaroni and cheese, for there is simply no substitute for Kraft unless it's strictly homemade. I now demand nothing else but Kraft when my wife goes shopping for groceries, and while she probably rolls her eyes and shakes her pretty little head behind my back, she also figures that if spending a few extra pennies on the good stuff will make me happy, than I'm a pretty easy fix. Whatever.

The next step was a painful one. You see, with three children in the house, one learns very quickly how to be quick and efficient in virtually every facet of life. Multitasking isn't just a desirable trait when raising multiple offspring, it's a necessary survival skill. This, of course, includes the ability to churn out meals in mere minutes. In my efforts to accomplish this feat, I began to realize the time-saving advantage of scrapping the measuring cups and spoons for the so-called "scant-measure" logic. Adding a quarter cup of milk to the macaroni and cheese no longer meant taking out the measuring cup and measuring, but rather just dumping what I estimated to be a quarter cup of milk into the pot. Sweet. Nice time saver. No more measuring the butter, just scoop a hunk out of the butter tub and toss it into the mixture.

Well, I soon realized just how crappy the macaroni and cheese tasted. It was either too runny, or too chunky (from the processed powdered cheese and not enough milk), or one of several other such maladies. Thus, lesson #2...ALWAYS measure the ingredients exactly per the directions for mac and cheese perfection! Hey, these Kraft folks have been doing the mac and cheese thing for years. They know how exactly how much butter and milk to add to the final product, and there's no room for cutting corners. As proof to my argument, my wife hasn't quite followed in my footsteps when it comes to precise measurements, and the kids know it. She'll even admit her mac and cheese isn't as good as mine. It's all about following the recipe.

So what exactly is this elusive last step to which I have alluded? Actually, it really has nothing to do with the overall final taste. Rather, it's about that damn white foam which forms on top of the boiling water while cooking the pasta (any pasta, actually - not just macaroni) and always boils over unless tended to constantly. I am not knowledgeable enough to know where this foam comes from, or why pasta seems to produce it. What I do know is that it's a nuisance, to put it nicely. A big pain-in-the-ass, to put it not-so-nicely. I've learned that if I blow cool air on the foam as it approaches the boiling-over point, it will recede for a short time, but it doesn't take long to return to the boiling-over point. So how the hell do you stop this stuff? What's the answer????? Anyone???????????????

I will continue to reach deep within my inner-Kraft-Cheese-and-Macaroni-yen until I discover the hidden mastership of this art. I will not fail. And when I succeed, it will be a glorious day. Until then, I shall press forward in pursuit of knowledge.

(As a side-note, I began typing this post before work yesterday and was unable to complete it. When I got to work, I was told by a co-worker that the white foam could be avoided by adding some oil to the water. Thoughts? I will try this trick next week when mac-and-cheese day comes around again.)

Twitter Malfunction

2008-11-18T12:49:00.003-06:00

You may have noticed my newly added Twitter application to the left, which now doesn't seem to be working correctly. I attempted to fix the double "Kevin is" line, and thought at one point that I had, but now the entire thing seems to be awash. I don't know what's going on, and I've run out of time to work on it today, so please accept my apologies for the technical difficulties. Truth be told, you probably didn't really give a rat's behind what I was doing every minute of the day anyway, huh?

Technology. Gotta love it.

Not.

Huskers 56, Wildcats 28

2008-11-18T09:37:00.002-06:00

Last Saturday's 56-28 Husker win against the Wildcats of Kansas State was the most satisfying win of the season, at least from my perspective. Even more so than the previous week's win against Kansas. Maybe it would be more accurate to say it was the Husker's most complete game this year. After rushing for 340 yards, and passing for another 270, it was the first time I felt the Huskers could just about do anything they wanted against a team. The defensive front four are playing absolute lights out football right now. Seriously. They have taken over the strength of this team, and are beginning to set the kind of tone worthy of comparison to the traditional Husker defenses. Constant pressure on the opposing quarterback, no chance of any kind of rushing game out of their opponent, and crushing tackles. For the first time in a long time, it's fun to watch these guys play football. The Husker coaching staff finally passed out the coveted Blackshirts last week, but did so with the warning that said Blackshirts could just as easily be taken away. In other words, the players earned them, but need to play like they want to keep them. This ongoing process of evaluation was a wise move on the part of the coaches, and it showed on Saturday.

Make no mistake, the Huskers are far from a perfect game. Mistakes still abound, as evidenced by the third quarter performance against the Wildcats on Saturday - the Huskers were shut out 7-0 during the fifteen-minute stretch. Still, the Huskers are improving. Penalties are down from where they were, the sloppy play is beginning to get crisper, and even the coaches are learning and improving from past mistakes. Yes, we here in Husker Nation are beginning to see some chemistry on this team and throughout the program, from the Athletic Director all they way to the trainers. It's a beautiful thing!

As a result, the Huskers sit at 7-4 on the season, and would seem well on their way to an 8-4 regular season finish. They are idle this weekend, and will wrap things up at home against Colorado on Black Friday (hmmm...any significance there - Black Friday....Blackshirts...I don't know, just a thought). A bowl game is eminent, and a 9-4 finale is mouthwatering. Looking ahead, there's lots of talk about the possibility of returning to the Big XII title game next year, but I'm going to put such talk off for now, and simply enjoy what I've seen this year. Husker faithful, for the most part, are a happy bunch thus far this season. No need to get into next year just yet.

As mentioned, no Huskers this weekend, so I look forward to putting my feet up and watching the drama unfold in Norman, Oklahoma as Texas Tech takes their campaign on the road. Lots of scenarios to think about in terms of a conference championship should the Red Raiders lose to the Sooners this weekend, which I believe is a distinct possibility. Hehehehe....I love this game!

GO BIG RED!!

Husker 45, Jayhawks 35

2008-11-14T22:38:00.003-06:00

The Huskers enjoyed a very satisfying win last Saturday after defeating the Kansas Jayhawks. It was a much-needed win, too, for reasons I discussed in my last post. I was extremely thrilled at the play of the defensive front four, as they put lots of pressure on Kansas QB Todd Reesing and were solid against Kansas' rushing attack. All in all, a very good day for the Huskers. Yes, they still have a ways to go, but last week's game was a huge step forward.

Onto Manhatten, Kansas, for a date with the Kansas State Wildcats. This is another one of those sneaky games that could potentially bite the Huskers in the rear if they aren't careful. KSU's head coach was fired last week, but told he would be allowed to finish out the season. One could easily assume that the Wildcats don't have much to play for after a dismal season, and now the news they will no longer be playing for Ron Prince come the end of 2008. And that's why the 'Skers have to be careful. KSU has nothing to lose by pulling out all the stops, and I wouldn't be a bit surprised if they do just that through trick plays, stunts, etc.

Still, the Huskers have a lots to play for, and we can rest assured Pelini will have them ready to go hard. They will build on a tremendous effort from last week, and begin to exude some real confidence in their abilities. One gets the sense this team continues to learn from game-to-game, and this game will be no different. They will continue to fix their issues, and continue to improve while feasting on the Wildcats. Huskers 38, Wildcats 10.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers vs. Jayhawks

2008-11-08T10:17:00.003-06:00

Today marks the long-awaited rematch between Nebraska and Kansas, for it was a year ago when the Huskers visited Lawrence and were handed their worst defeat in history. An ugly 72-39 crushing, which I believe ultimately began the downward spiral of the Nebraska football program. Make no mistake, the program was already teetering on the edge of demise, but such a defeat put it over the edge.

So is today's game about revenge? Nah. Not for me, and according to Bo Pelini, his staff and his players, not for the Nebraska program. I believe there to be far too many motivators today, such that revenge need not be a factor. A win today puts the Huskers on an inside track to finish the regular season 8-4, go to a bowl game, and possibly finish 9-4. That's a sign of some great progress, folks. A win today following last week's debacle in Oklahoma instills confidence into a team that sorely needs it in order to finish strong, and avoid a season-ending three-game skid the likes of which seemed all too common during the Callahan-coached seasons of the last several years. But most importantly, in this humble Husker fan's eyes, is the need for Pelini to secure a signature win. A game he and his team can look back on as the building blocks of re-establishing the Husker football program. The Husker's effort against Texas Tech a few weeks ago nearly fit the bill for such a game, but it was still a loss. A win today against the mighty Jayhawks would give Pelini his signature win.

It won't be easy. Quarterback Todd Reesing and his Jayhawks rank right around tenth in the country in passing, and Nebraska's passing defense, depending on which category one looks at, ranks between eightieth and ninetieth in the country. Not good odds. Today's game will have to be up to the front four on the Husker defensive line. Frankly, they will have to play lights out defense, and make Reesing's day a living hell. Pressure, pressure, pressure. And then some more pressure. Get the idea? The Husker secondary just isn't talented enough to defend a pass-happy offense without the help of the front four. It'll be interesting to see what Pelini has in mind in terms of schemes and trickery. He'll have to be spot-on in order to contain the Jayhawks.

Unlike last year, I have been willing to predict a few Husker losses. I have laid down my pride and become more realistic. I predicted three of the four Husker losses, and score-wise, I wasn't all that far off. I say that because what you're about to read you might just find laughable. I have a good feeling about today's game. I think Pelini has something in mind, and he picks up his all-important signature win. The Huskers upset the Jayhawks today, and begin putting the pieces together to put Nebraska football back on the map. Rock chalk Jayhawk? Not in Lincoln, and not today. Huskers 42, Jayhawks 32.

Jeff, I'm awaiting your reply!

GO BIG RED!!

Jinx?

2008-11-06T13:57:00.002-06:00

It was nearly twenty years ago that my brother and I set out from Lincoln to Ames, Iowa, to see Metallica in concert. With tickets in hand, we began our northeasterly trek with no clue as to what would be our fate. All we knew is that we had Metallica tickets, we'd never seen Metallica before, and we were going to have one hell of a good time! As we approached Des Moines, about halfway to our ultimate destination, our spirits were dashed. My truck began making funny noises and losing power, and the engine finally blew. There we were, on the side of the road, with no prayer of seeing Metallica that evening. I ended up footing a $150 bill to get a tow back home, and have been waiting ever since for a chance to see Metallica again.

Tonight is the night, and I hope I haven't jinxed myself. For the concert is in Omaha, another northeasterly trek, though not nearly as far. I'm pretty sure....nevermind, I'm damn sure if things go awry on the automotive front this evening, I will hitchhike my way to Omaha. I'm NOT missing this concert, I promise! I still have my ticket to that show lo so many years ago, and I had thought about digging it out today just for nostalgics sake. But I've decided to forgo nostalgia. I'm letting the past go, because tonight's concert is all about making up for lost time. Ladies and Gentlemen, tonight is Metallica or bust! Rock on!!

Sooners 62, Huskers 28

2008-11-05T12:54:00.002-06:00

Ouch. And I thought Missouri crushed the Huskers. That game was bad, but what happened in Norman, OK. last Saturday was beyond comprehension. If you hadn't already heard, the Sooners quickly took their opening possession down the field for a touchdown. The Huskers took the field for their first possession, and were intercepted on their first play which resulted in a Sooner touchdown. Next series, another turnover, another Sooner touchdown. Ballgame. And not even five minutes off the clock.

The Sooners rolled to 35 first-half points en route to a final 62-28 blowout. The biggest job of the season for first-year head coach Bo Pelini has been to keep this group of Husker football players from losing confidence. The task will be especially important this week as they prepare to host a pretty decent Kansas football team. There's still a bunch to play for, including a bowl game. Heck, if the Huskers win out, and they have a good chance of doing so, they wind up with an 8-4 season. Not too shabby considering the debacles of the last few years. Even if they lose to KU on Saturday, and meet expectations by beating Kansas State and Colorado, they still can boast about a 7-5 season. Much improved, and something to build on while practicing for a bowl game and then looking at Spring practices. But all of this will depend on how this group responds to last Saturday.

I have a good feeling about it. I truly believe in Pelini's abilities as a head coach, motivator, and leader. The Huskers will rally under him, and they will be ready for Saturday. I will post my prediction a little later in the week after watching how practices go over the next couple of days. In the mean time, I offer this: I very much feel sorry for the Sooners when they visit Memorial Stadium in Lincoln next year. 'Nuff said.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers @ Sooners

2008-11-01T09:14:00.002-06:00

Ahhh, the day has finally arrived. The air is crisp, the leaves are a beautiful mixture of red, gold, yellow, and brown. Another Halloween is in the books and talk of Thanksgiving Day plans as begun to emerge. All of this can only mean the time has come for the Huskers to take on the Sooners of Oklahoma!

True, the once-annual battle between the Huskers and Sooners has lost some of it's luster over the past several years. Really the slide began when former Sooner skipper Barry Switzer left Oklahoma in the late 80's. OU was hit with some penalties from the NCAA, which limited their recruiting, and the program fell from national prominence. This opened the door for NU to gain the winning edge most of the time throughout the 90's. Then, the expansion of the Big Eight Conference to the Big Twelve Conference meant that Nebraska and Oklahoma would only meet every two years (two years back-to-back, then two years off back-to-back). And, of course, Nebraska's fall from national prominence in recent years has meant that if and when the two schools meet, Oklahoma is usually the hands-down favorite to win.

Still, for those of us who have followed the Cornhuskers for decades, the NU-OU battle remains huge. It's a classic rivalry that will never truly die, even if it's faded a bit over the years. The Huskers travel to Norman, OK to take on the fourth-ranked Sooners, and I have a good feeling it will be a great game. The Sooners are a bit suspect on defense, but their offense is something to behold. They have lost one game this year, so they are beatable. Trouble is, the team that beat them was Texas, and Texas is the top-ranked team in the nation. I don't look for an upset today, as I just don't think the Huskers have the horses to go toe-to-toe with OU for four quarters. I'm looking for something along the lines of a 45-28 final in favor of the Sooners.

But then, there's a tiny little nugget of a factor in this old rivalry. During the heydays of this classic battle, it didn't seem to much matter which team was ranked where or how good either team was supposed to be, for it was Nebraska vs. Oklahoma, and all the ratings and hype went out the window at the sound of the first whistle. Will that happen today? Can the Huskers overcome that strange old Sooner Magic? Will the Sooners even need their Magic to win? Anyone even recall Sooner Magic? I'm getting goosebumps - it's Nebraska vs. Oklahoma, it's classic football, it's time!

GO BIG RED!!!

Husker vs Bears

2008-10-25T09:36:00.002-06:00

Wow, amazing how the week got away from me. Seemed like each day was jam-packed with activities, appointments, etc. It's hard to believe Husker Game Day is already here again, and I haven't taken the time to discuss last week's game. And, at this point, I won't. I predicted a 38-12 Husker triumph, and I'm proud to say I was pretty close. The Huskers had a quality showing in Ames, Iowa, securing a 35-7 win.

Now the Huskers are back home to face a Baylor Bears team that has long been the doormat of the Big XII Conference. Times have changed, however, and Baylor has proven they can play some football. I kind of have the feeling this is one of those games than has the potential of sneaking up on the Huskers and catching them off guard, if they're not careful. Nebraska has a recent habit of losing a game they were "supposed" to win, and I could see that trend continuing today. Baylor has an elusive, dual-threat quarterback who has the ability to scramble for a whole bunch of yards. Nebraska's defense will have to stay focused, and play assignment football in order to contain him.

There are a couple of other factors in today's game, however, that bode well for Nebraska, and should help them to break the aforementioned trend. First, Nebraska has one heck of fiery head coach, and I suspect Pelini won't lose to a squad who is clearly outmatched by his own. The Huskers, on paper, are better than Baylor. Period. And second, Nebraska returns to Memorial Stadium today after two weeks on the road. The first week, they took seventh-ranked Texas Tech to overtime before losing in a brilliant effort. And last week, they throttled Iowa State for their most complete game yet this season. And the home crowd hasn't had the opportunity to congratulate their beloved Huskers for their efforts. The stadium will be loud and boisterous, more so than usual, which will make it rather imposing for the Bears.

Huskers 42, Bears 17.

GO BIG RED!!

Closure on "Spitgate"

2008-10-18T09:17:00.005-06:00

As I anxiously await today's kickoff between the Huskers and Iowa State, I have found myself with a few extra minutes to kill before the crowd convenes on my abode to chant multiple GO BIG REDs. With that, I thought I'd write some words on a subject which has bothered me for a couple of weeks. If you are a regular reader of my thoughts via this blog, you know I'm just a bit passionate about Husker football. You also know that the Missouri Tigers were in town a couple weeks ago, and had their way with Nebraska, which was really no surprise. Because it was no surprise, and because Nebraska is a program that is using this year to re-establish itself, I'm okay with the 52-17 crushing which the Huskers endured on that fateful Saturday. Really. I'm okay with it - sure, it stung a bit, but I was prepared for that possibility.

What came out of all of the carnage was a little sidebar story, if you will, which local sportswriters termed "spitgate." My understanding is that "spitgate" was all over ESPN News and online, though I didn't care to verify by searching much for the story. In a nutshell, Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel accused Nebraska of playing dirty football, even going so far as to call Nebraska one of the dirtiest teams he's ever played. He also accused one of the Husker players of spitting on him when the Tigers took the field. He didn't name names, but said the player knew who he was, and that the incident was "bush league." Both head coaches, according to the Lincoln paper the following Monday, talked about it and were satisfied that the incident was over. Nothing was confirmed, however, and nothing else was said, at least not to the public. Behind closed doors? Well, who knows?

I've always carried great pride in our program as it has built itself on character, respect for other teams, and a hard work ethic. I'm not stupid - I know the program, and specifically some of its players, have made mistakes in the past. Big mistakes. I know it's not a perfect program, but I believe the Nebraska football program is something of which its fans can be very proud. So to hear an opposing team member make such accusations? Well, that hurts worse than losing to that team by several touchdowns, as we did. As I pondered this charge by Daniel, I began to wonder just how much truth was really in his statement. He had no real reason to lie, because he kicked the crap out of Nebraska. Had he lost, or had his Heisman campaign been derailed because our team forced him to make mistakes, he might have said such a thing out of anger. But that wasn't the case. Still, how much of this kind of thing takes place on a regular basis when opposing teams, with a ton of pride in their program, meet? Was it really an isolated incident, as Daniel seems to want us to believe, or is this kind of thing just normal?

I don't know, but a local sportswriter wrote some words which really put this whole thing in perspective, at least for me. I've quoted Steven Sipple below, and then I'm done with "spitgate."

"Pelini (Nebraska's head coach) was honest and straightforward Tuesday, as always. He called Daniel's allegation "unfortunate" while reminding that there are two sides to every story.

"By no means am I calling Chase Daniel a liar," Pelini said, essentially leaving open the possibility.

This much is certain: Daniel comes off looking petty. Like a tattletale on a grade-school playground. If you're going to make such a harsh accusation, provide the name and number. Otherwise, bite your tongue and board the bus.

Whatever the truth, Pelini made it clear to his team that the alleged behavior would be forever unacceptable in his program.

The whole thing's a little ridiculous. Daniel said Nebraska was a dirty team after he was hit hard only a handful of times? C'mon, Chase.

"...bite your tongue and board the bus." That's what I'm talking about. Well said, Mr. Sipple. Thanks for the closure.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers @ Iowa State

2008-10-16T09:22:00.002-06:00

You'll have to excuse my lack of writing over the course of the last week. I've had a few things I wanted to say, but haven't found the time to say them. Of course, if my posts weren't short novels, I would probably have time to write. What can I say? I've yet to master the art of expressing myself in just a few words.

At any rate, the Husker football team took a giant step last week as they took the Red Raiders of Texas Tech to overtime. Granted, I think Tech was and is overrated, but they are still a whole bunch better than Nebraska, and especially in their house. It was great to see the Huskers have the chance to win the game, as quarterback Joe Ganz played a phenomenal game. The hardest part was to see the game end on his only interception. Final score in overtime, Huskers 31, Red Raiders 38. Ganz is the type of player that will try to shoulder the majority of the blame, but I'm telling you, he had one of the best games I've seen any college quarterback play. Over an 82% completion rate? Good grief, it just doesn't get much better. And the defense stepped up pretty well, though there were some blown assignments which contributed to the loss. Blown assignments, and more drive-killing penalties, led to the Huskers' demise last week. But again, they took some major steps forward in sticking with the brilliant game plan, and continuing their intense play. Once again, they just kept coming back and not quitting. I know I say that every week, but it is a beautiful thing to watch after the last four years of dismal effort.

Now, the task at hand is to keep it going. After three straight losses, Bo and company will have their hands full with the mental aspect - getting the players to believe they can win. Those of us who faithfully follow the 'Skers saw something special last week. We know they can win, but do the players? If anyone can get them to believe, it's Bo. Practices thus far this week have seemed constructive, productive, and positive. The Huskers travel to Ames, Iowa on Saturday for a date with the Iowa State Cyclones - a game the Huskers should win. In fact, it's a game the Huskers need to win if for nothing else than to prove to themselves that winning is possible, and to gain some confidence. Looking ahead, the Huskers host Baylor next week, which means they have a fantastic chance at winning two games in a row before heading to Norman for a game with the Sooners of Oklahoma. But I digress, lest I get ahead of myself.

As for this Saturday - Huskers 38, Cyclones 12.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers @ Red Raiders

2008-10-10T22:42:00.002-06:00

Nebraska arrived this morning in Lubbock, Texas for a Saturday date with #7 Texas Tech. The Red Raiders boast the same style of spread offense which the Huskers faced against Missouri last week. It'll be interesting to watch and see what the Huskers and the coaching staff learned after battling a nearly flawless offensive performance. It's also the Huskers first road game of the season, so there will lots of sub-plots in this one.

I'm curiously comfortable with Nebraska getting out of Memorial Stadium this week, because for some strange reason I think they need it. After five straight home games, a change of scenery is in order, even though it won't be a friendly arena in which to play. I'm also interested in seeing how the Husker defense handles the Red Raiders, because while they are certainly very good, they aren't quite as precise as Missouri. Their quarterback, whose name escapes me at the moment, has thrown several interceptions this season, and just isn't quite as accurate. It hasn't mattered, though, as they have scored plenty enough points to overcome the mistakes. Still, the interception stats give me hope that the Huskers can at least make a showing.

I also suspect Nebraska will refuse to give in, despite how far behind they might get. If there is one glaring trait with this team, it's their refusal to roll over and play dead. They keep fighting, keep trying, and keep pushing. They are learning, there's no doubt about it, and so is the coaching staff. I have a good feeling we will be in tomorrow's game for longer than a lot of folks predict. Can we pull off the upset? Sure - as I said last week, anything is possible. This football team is bound to do something this season to build on for next year, and an upset of a top twenty-five team would be that building block. But, Texas Tech is a top-ten team, and the Huskers aren't quite ready to pull that big of an upset. My prediction: Huskers 28, Red Raiders 41.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers 17, Tigers 52

2008-10-07T20:22:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday was yet another tough pill to swallow for the Husker faithful, as the Missouri Tigers gave Nebraska a good ol' fashion, behind-the-woodshed spanking. It only took Chase Daniel and his band of rogues a mere 58 seconds to get in the end-zone, and they never really looked back. Yup, it was all Missouri as they exorcised the demons that have haunted them at Memorial Stadium since 1978, the last time they won in Lincoln. What the Tigers did to the Huskers is what the Huskers used to do to most other opponents for years and years.

Teams just aren't afraid to come into Memorial Stadium anymore. The aura is gone, at least temporarily. I can only hope that someday the Huskers will get it back, but for now, it seems a long ways away. The defensive game-plan last Saturday never came close to working, as Daniel made the Huskers look silly. I had hoped some of the aforementioned aura would resurrect itself in some form, and get into Daniel's head a little bit. Throw him off his rhythm. He showed why he's a Heisman front-runner, as he was simply brilliant and not the least bit shaken. You know it's bad when the opposing team even got their third-string quarterback a few snaps at the end of the game.

Once again, though, the Huskers never quit fighting, which was very satisfying. We have a long ways to go before we're able to compete with the big boys again, but as long as we don't quit, and as long as we continue to learn from game-to-game, I'm satisfied with where things stand to this point. Next up is seventh-ranked Texas Tech in Lubbock, which is a perfect opportunity to show what we took from last Saturday. You can bet I'll be taking notes come game time.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers vs. Tigers

2008-10-04T10:09:00.002-06:00

Well, the day has arrived. The fourth-ranked Missouri Tigers, led by Heisman-front runner and quarterback Chase Daniel, bring their stellar offense into Memorial Stadium for the biggest game of the year to date. The atmosphere for tonight's 8:00 p.m. kickoff on ESPN will be nothing short of pure pandemonium. It's gonna be loud, rocking, insane, and I'm going to be right in the thick of all of it!! I'm very much looking forward to another game-day experience, even though this one has the great potential of winding up on the short end in terms of the final score.

Can the Huskers pull off the upset? Sure. It can happen. Anything can happen. It's going to take some amazing performances by our athletes, and some stellar scheming by the coaching staff. Oh, and probably a good dose of luck in a few areas, too. If we can muster a great big bunch of each of those ingredients, then I'd say we have a good shot at an upset. And you can bet this Husker fan will be cheering, screaming, hoping and praying for such a scene to unfold tonight.

My prediction for tonight is that the 2008 version of Husker football will do some more growing tonight. I think they have grown and matured from their experiences over the first four games of this young season, including last week's loss to Virgina Tech. I'm proud of them, and I'm excited to watch the program go in the direction it seems to be headed. Continued progress, continued improvement, continued intensity. That's all I ask for this year, regardless of the final score each week. And I think they will grow some more tonight, despite their impending loss to the Tigers. Joe Ganz and the offense will put up some decent numbers, and our defense will make some pretty amazing plays, but the building Huskers won't be enough to stop the rolling Tigers. It kills me to have to say this - you really have no idea how it feels to predict a Husker loss. But, here it goes: Huskers - 31, Tigers 49.

Ouch, that really hurts.

GO BIG RED!!!

Hokies 35, Huskers 30

2008-10-02T20:33:00.002-06:00

Seems the Husker football team is still a-growing under our new head coach and his philosophies and staff, and that was painfully obvious last Saturday as Virginia Tech came into town and wreaked some havoc. Final score: Hokies 35, Huskers 30. Tech's below-average offense looked pretty decent as their elusive quarterback found wide-open receivers all day long. In fact, the score probably should have been a bit worse as he missed those wide-open receivers on a couple of occasions for sure touchdowns. Our defense did a good job of containing their quarterback, who is one of the most elusive and dangerous in the nation, but something had to give in order for that to happen. What gave was our secondary coverage. They're a young bunch, and still learning, so here's hoping they took some good notes last Saturday.

It was actually pretty amazing to watch our defense begin to dig in and stop the Hokies as they neared the red zone early in the fourth quarter, amidst a valiant and mounting Husker comeback. But that all went downhill after a personal foul was called for a late hit, followed by another personal foul after Coach Pelini wouldn't stop harassing the refs for the aforementioned late hit. Ouch. We had the Hokies in a third-and-long situation from our 30 yard line, but after the penalties they had the ball first-and-goal from about the 9. Did I say "ouch?" I love Pelini's fire and passion, but this was a bit much, and he admitted to it in post-game interviews.

Still, even after all that went wrong, the Huskers kept fighting until the final second ticked off the game clock. It was a wonderful thing to watch them not give up because Husker Nation hasn't seen such effort in over four years. And, I would like to think they learned a few things on Saturday. It appears they did, based on comments coming out of practice this week. While I would love to see wins, all I can ask of this young and growing group is to keep fighting and keep learning. I got my wish last week.

Next up? Those pesky Tigers of Mizzou. It's homecoming this Saturday and Chase Daniel and Company will be in town with their high-flying show. They're ranked fourth in the nation, and this will be another night game televised on ESPN. I have been invited to go to the game this week, and you can bet I will be screaming, and screaming loud. I don't expect us to come out on top in this one, but I do expect us to at least give Missouri a scare into thinking we have the potential to beat them. And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, we will. Think Oregon State over USC. Anything is possible. Anything.

My prediction come Saturday, as usual.

GO BIG RED!!

Husker vs. Hokies

2008-09-27T15:00:00.003-06:00

As I sat at work late last night accruing some overtime hours, I pulled out a pad of paper with the intentions of writing my predictions for today's big game. I ended up coming home with nothing but a blank piece of paper, short of a few scribbled out sentences. It would be easy to blame my writer's block on an inability to focus between answering phone calls and helping to solve the city's usual Friday night parties and general alcohol-related silliness. In reality, though, I suspect that blank piece of paper is due to the fact that I simply can't get a good read on how the Huskers will fare today.

All of the major elements are in place for an exciting game tonight. The Memorial Stadium lights will be on and the crowd will be jacked. The national media is in town to cover the Huskers for the first time this season. A real powerhouse football team in Virgina Tech is here to give rookie head coach Bo Pelini his first shot at making a statement as to how far his team has come towards rebuilding national prominence, and more importantly confidence within the program. The Huskers have had a couple weeks off to prepare for the Hokies after coming off their best game of this early season. Anticipation is high, and Husker-mania is at a fever pitch across the plains of Nebraska. It's a great college-football atmosphere at its very best!

Still, I just can't seem to get a strong feeling either way. In breaking the game down and looking at pure numbers, it seems the Huskers and Hokies are pretty evenly matched. Neither team is ranked in the top 25, but both are supposedly somewhere between #26 and #29. Both defenses are very good, though I'd give a slight edge to the Hokies simply based on experience. On the other side of the ball, the edge goes to Nebraska's offense as they have a fantastic rushing threat and a big-play-capable corps of receivers. The Tech offense really only offers a threat with their mobile quarterback. Contain him (which admittedly is no small feat), and they haven't much else on which to rely. As far as special teams, well, you may have heard the term "Beamerball." This refers to Tech's head coach Frank Beamer's style of special teams play. My understanding is that it is an honor to play on special teams in Blacksburg, which means there is always a huge threat of a game-changing play when Beamerball is being played.

So where does all of this analysis leave me? Stuck, for lack of a better term. Maybe it's because I was so confident last year that the S'kers would be good in their fourth year under Bill Callahan, and I was burned far too many times after thinking Nebraska would and should beat everyone that crossed their path. Yes, I'm hesitant to get overly confident in this first year of rebuilding our beloved football program.

So here's what I'm going to do:

I'm gonna throw all this analysis crap out the window, and in the spirit of true Husker fanaticism, predict a big ol' homegrown, smash-mouth, knock-'em-on-their-butts, gratifying win tonight. That's right - the Huskers will come out of their traditional tunnel-walk so jacked up and ready to knock somebodies head off, the Hokies won't ever get into a rythm. They will be scared, nervous, and flat. Forget Beamerball, people, we have Boball. The Huskers get it done tonight and Bo begins to resurrect the Nebraska football program with a big win. Final score: Huskers 30, Hokies 12.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers 38, Aggies 7

2008-09-13T22:11:00.002-06:00

Tonight's game was exactly what I had hoped for in terms of a complete football game. It was incredibly fun to watch, as the S'kers dominated every facet of the game. The defense was stellar, and the offense was clicking on every cylinder enroute to a season-best 330 yards rushing, and 553 yards overall. They didn't score as much as I had originally thought they might, but for good reason. Head coach Bo Pelini was smart in putting in his backup quarterback at the beginning of the fourth quarter, and even his third-string quarterback in the latter stages of the game. Both got some quality playing time and precious experience. As good as the defense was playing, it was a great move, and I was thrilled to see both players take some snaps.

As I mentioned, the defense was amazing. They played tonight like the defense all of Husker Nation has dreamed about since the announcement of Bo Pelini as head coach at Nebraska. They pitched a three-quarter shut out, and I believe it could have been a complete shut out had the offense not fumbled the ball and given the Aggies first-and-goal from the three yard line. It was a beautiful thing!

So, the Huskers now go into their bye-week very confident. It would appear as though the possibilities are there that this team can at least compete with some of the marquee teams in the nation. I feel good about our chances against Virginia Tech in a couple of weeks, especially since the Hokies have to come to our house. They may not be as good as in recent years, but Coach Beamer always has his guys ready to play, and I'm betting they will give the Huskers their biggest test yet. I'll make my usual prediction closer to game time, and after I chew on and digest the season so far.

Meanwhile, how 'bout those lady Huskers??? The Nebraska volleyball team is still unbeaten, and played their final non-conference match today. They are shocking the nation as they take their undefeated status and #2 national ranking into conference play next week.

Yes, life is good in Big Red Country right now.

GO BIG RED!!

Game #3: Huskers vs. Aggies

2008-09-12T14:13:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow's game, in this amateur Husker football writer's book, is a very big game for the Nebraska football team. New Mexico State will be in town to battle the Huskers at the old stadium, and dare I say, the Huskers had better be ready. Ready in the sense that this will be the final time to fine-tune the basics of good football. Tackling, blocking, rushing, discipline, communication, clock control, to name a few. Performing these traits successfully are what make a football team good. Adding an element of instinct to these traits is what begins to separate the good from the great. I'm not looking for great, yet. I'm looking for good, which I have seen flashes of in the first two games, but not consistently.

Here's a glimpse of the immediate future; Nebraska hosts New Mexico State tomorrow, then they have a bye-week. The following week, Virgina Tech pays a visit, followed by Missouri. Despite Tech's opening-day loss to East Carolina (who, by the way, seems to be making a living out of upsetting top 20 teams so far this year), they are very talented and will not give the Huskers an easy game. And, need I say a word about Heisman-candidate Chase Daniels and Missouri? If Nebraska does not play well tomorrow, the confidence factor will take a big hit going into the bye-week and preparations for Virginia Tech. And that's a long two weeks to ponder whether you're really good enough to compete with the big boys.

The Huskers MUST start quick tomorrow, and not let up until the game is far out of reach for the Aggies. Scoring on the first four or five possessions is essential, and a fat lead come half-time must be in order. The defense needs to finish the deal, too. Strong tackling, strong secondary play, and everyone swarming the ball. Tomorrow's Husker football needs to be complete in every aspect of the game.

And I predict it will. Not completely mistake-free, mind you, but it will be the best game we've seen this year. Based on stories out of practice this week, the S'kers have worked diligently on tackling to the ground and prolonged intensity. I'm guessing (and hoping) we will see the fruits of their labor tomorrow. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m., and I predict by the time darkness has swept across the Nebraska sky and the dust has settled inside Memorial Stadium, the Huskers will have prevailed big with a 58-17 drubbing of the Aggies of New Mexico State. May the football gods be with us all if they don't....I'll get back to you after Saturday on that one.

GO BIG RED!!

2008-09-10T09:35:00.002-06:00

Wow - so here it is Wednesday already and I haven't posted a thing about the Husker's weekend. In fact, I couldn't even squeeze in time to post a prediction before last Saturday's game. Good grief. If I would have predicted, however, I would have wrote that the Huskers would shore up there communication issues and other defensive issues en route to a 56-17 thrashing of San Jose State. I would have been wrong. Gulp.

What actually took place was lots and lots of pure sloppiness. The S'kers walked away from the mess on Saturday with a 35-12 win, but I would say the game was closer than the score indicates. In fact, the score was still 14-12 with twelve minutes left in the game. And seven of those points came from a defensive touchdown. The offense struggled mightily to find any sort of rhythm, and finally got going after Niles Paul returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown. It was the spark the Huskers needed to finally put the game away, but it was never-the-less far too close for any sort of comfort in Big Red Country.

For some reason, though, I'm still not horribly worried. Maybe it's because I'm not allowing myself to have too many expectations for this season, even though I think head coach Bo Pelini might just be the second coming of Christ. He's still a first-year head coach, as are most of the Nebraska coaches. I think Pelini and company will continue to work hard to tune the Big Red Machine, and we will continue to see improvement from week to week. Quarterback Joe Ganz is a fantastic football player, and maybe even a better leader, and he'll have his team back on track soon. I look for some real signs of improvement this week, though again, there will still be mistakes. New Mexico State comes calling on Saturday, and since I have the next few days off while my wife travels to her brother's wedding, I will be sure to make time to post my prediction before game time. Until then....and always....

GO BIG RED!!

Communication

2008-09-05T21:06:00.002-06:00

Mandi and I had an appointment with a doctor this morning in order to diagnose some problems Mandi has been experiencing over the course of the last couple of weeks. Before I get too far into what happened, allow me to set the background a bit. You see, these problems Mandi has had are of the "female" version, if you will, and have been what we consider pretty scary. She's been in a lot of pain, along with other symptoms which led us to believe something was really not right. So, she had an appointment with a mid-wife at the care clinic we have used for our pregnancies, and that was on Tuesday of this week. Mandi came away from there feeling as though the mid-wife whom she saw (who was not our regular one) didn't take her very seriously, or at least acted like what Mandi has been experiencing just wasn't that big of a deal. Never the less, she ordered an ultra-sound for Mandi, to be done on Wednesday. Mandi had the ultra-sound done, and got those results back yesterday. The nurse with whom Mandi spoke yesterday sounded pretty serious, alarmed even, as she revealed the results. She told Mandi she needed to make an appointment with the doctor either Thursday afternoon, or this morning. Mandi opted for this morning so we could get work schedules and child care arranged, and that's where we found ourselves this morning.

We went into the office expecting the worst in terms of further diagnosis, and then treatment options. What we got seemed to be yet another opinion that what Mandi was experiencing wasn't a big deal, and the doctor ultimately made Mandi feel like she was kind of stupid for even being in his office. My hunch is that he didn't mean to make her feel that way, but the way he came across was horrible, to say the least. In the end, Mandi broke down in tears and told the doctor that what she was going through was not normal, she didn't deserve to live like she has been, and she wanted some answers. The doctor went on the defense and again, acted like everything he was saying was correct and we had no business being upset. He really believed he had done nothing wrong, whatsoever.

Now, I sincerely believe this doctor never intended to come across the way he did, and I sincerely believe his goal was to ultimately fix the problem. But he failed miserably in his compassion for Mandi and her ailments. Two thoughts surfaced in my mind during and after this entire experience. First, how realistic is it to expect a male doctor, even if he's the most knowledgeable in the world of the inner-workings of the female anatomy, to feel compassion and have understanding for a female patient experiencing these kinds of issues? I mean, really. Any male reading this care to comment? Men just don't get it, and we never will. It's just like childbirth - as a father who was there for every last second of my wife's pregnancies, I can say I experienced the birthing process just as much as I could. I studied the process, I watched the process unfold before my very eyes, and it was the most incredible thing I've ever witnessed, and the most incredible thing I ever will witness. But in the end, I don't have a clue what it was like to birth my children. Not a clue from Mandi's perspective. How in the world could I? On the same front, is it fair to a female patient to expect a male doctor to really "get" what she is going through? I don't know - I'm still on the fence, but I'm leaning towards the not so fair side.

Second, and I'll be frank. The interpersonal communication skills of the doctor whom we saw this morning flat sucked. He was horrible. He simply showed zero compassion, and it seems to me his profession would mandate some sort of skill in this area. He's charged with seeing people at the not-so-great moments in their lives, at least some of the time, and this poor bastard couldn't muster an ounce of compassion, or so it seemed. Maybe the compassion was there, and he just didn't know how to show it. At any rate, it really got me thinking about my own communication skills on a whole bunch of fronts. With my kids. With my wife. With my family. With the people who I talk to on the phone at the 9-1-1 Center. As a supervisor at the same center, with my staff. How do I come across? Am I effectively communicating what I want to say? Do I sound professional? Do I sound compassionate, empathetic, interested, caring? I can't say I was happy with the appointment this morning, but I can at least say it forced me to analyze my own communication efforts.

The Bucket List

2008-09-03T09:10:00.003-06:00

Mandi and I had a rare opportunity last night to watch a movie together after the kids were tucked into bed, and after going through the list of pay-per-view options, we settled on The Bucket List. We had both heard good things about the movie, and two of our favorite actors (Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman) star in it, so we figured it wouldn't be a bad choice.

And a bad choice it was not. I've written frequently in the past on the subject of death because I find it fascinating on several fronts, the most interesting of which is how vastly different the topic is viewed from person to person. One would be hard-pressed to find the same views and/or understanding of death in talking to any number or group of people. The Bucket List approaches the subject of death, and how a person might react in learning his or hers living days are numbered. It's a serious subject, but spun with Nicholsen's sense of humor and Freeman's philosophical personality, I found myself laughing out loud several times. I found myself at the end of the movie with a smile on my face, yet the wheels of thought spinning wildly. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and would highly recommend it.

Calling All Home Buyers!

2008-09-02T15:26:00.003-06:00

Hey all - I know this might be a long shot, but in the world of home selling, sometimes long shots prove to work out quite nicely. My wife's folks have been desperately trying to sell their home for nearly a year-and-a-half now, as they are preparing to move to Oklahoma where my father-in-law is now employed. As it stands now, he is flying down for two weeks of work, then back home for two weeks, etc. This arrangement is taking its toll on both of them, as you can imagine. They have an amazing acreage south of Lincoln, but the current housing market has made it very difficult to sell. They have had some potential buyers, but for various reasons, it has not worked out. I have included a link below to the website on which their house is listed. If you know of anyone who might be interested or looking at buying an acreage near Lincoln, please have them check this out and make an appointment with them. Here's the link:

http://www.frontierrealty.helpusell.com

Under the "find a property" heading, there's an option to enter an mls number. That number is 10064066. Enter the number, then click search now, and enjoy the pictures. And thank you for any sending this on to whoever you might know!

And So It Begins.....Again

2008-09-02T15:02:00.002-06:00

As we begin to put the finishing touches on what has been a very fast-paced and busy summer, I must admit I am glad to be getting back into more of a regular routine. I love summer, what with all the grilling, fishing, camping, swimming, and spending time with friends outdoors and enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. And, I can't really complain too much about summer of '08, except that I didn't do nearly as much of the aforementioned list of activities and I would have liked. But, I don't suppose I ever would get to do as much as I'd like. I'm sure there's a reason for that, one which only God knows.

One regret I do have, however, is that I really fell hard out of my workout routine. Much of this was due to working third shift, as I often went in to work earlier in the evening to rake in the overtime hours and ultimately pay the bills. I had tried at one point to come home from work and go for an early morning run, but most often the kids were up and at 'em too soon, so that didn't work so well. Mandi's routine was such that she slept until nine or so in the morning, which I felt I owed her since she was often at home in the evening by herself with baths and other such parenting duties. Heck, the least I could do was let her wake up on her own accord, without the assistance of an alarm clock, right? By the time I got to bed, it was usually around ten o' clock and I wouldn't get up until supper time, around sixish. By the time I'd either go to work early or take care of a few to-do's, well, you get the picture. Where in the world is the time for a workout??

So it felt particularly good to get a good workout in this afternoon with Mandi. We went through one of our workout videos, which is equivalent to walking/running four miles. It was a little tougher than I remember, but I suppose that's par-for-the-course since I had fallen out of a routine. While we never stopped eating properly, the lack of exercise has taken it's toll on my energy level, and I've put on about ten pounds over the summer. Well, I'm back at it and I aim to reverse the gain, and keep on going to erase this belly of mine. My goal is two-fold - as I've mentioned in the past, I would dearly love to be in shape enough to run the Lincoln Marathon next May, and I would also love to reveal the coveted six-pack hidden within the confines of my abdomen. Now, I realize such a revelation will take some extra work outside of merely running, and I am prepared to accept such work. Bring it on!

I'll keep ya posted on the progress as the weeks press on.

All Huskers, All Weekend

2008-09-02T10:24:00.002-06:00

It was a big weekend for Husker athletics, as the season opened for both the football team and the volleyball team. I normally begin these recaps with the football team, as I am a much bigger fan of football than volleyball. However, I'm feeling some serious love for the Lady Huskers this weekend, so I shall begin with them. As mentioned in my last post, the Ladies opened their season at the Qwest Center in Omaha and the Runza/AVCA Showcase tournament. Second-ranked Stanford was the Huskers first opponent, and it was all Nebraska as they dispatched the Cardinal in three games on Friday night. Nobody would have predicted such an amazing feat. The Huskers looked confident and energized, and appeared to be having the time of their lives! Next came the fourth-ranked Trojans of USC on Sunday for the tournament title. No problems there, either, as the Huskers won that match three games to one. It was quite the showcase, as the tournament name suggested, and it was all Huskers! Oh, and by the way, they returned home on Monday at the Coliseum to host Oral Roberts University. If anyone was concerned about a letdown, worry no more. The Huskers easily prevailed three-games-to-none, and remain undefeated as they vaulted to the #2 ranking in the nation. Nice work, Ladies!

As for the football team on Saturday, they defeated Western Michigan 47-24. The game was about what I expected for opening day. Not super pretty, but the Huskers definitely showed glimpses of brilliance on both sides of the ball. That intensity I discussed in my previous post was there, which was what I most wanted to see on Saturday. The defense came up with four sacks, after totaling thirteen all of last season. Hard tackling, flying to the football, and knocking people around was a beautiful thing to witness after the debacle from last year. The second-half was a bit less intense, though I suspect that was due to some miscommunication, as well as some intelligent coaching on the Western Michigan side.

There are some who have griped about the Husker's lack of a running game on Saturday, but I'm not so quick to complain. The Broncos were stacking the box and challenging quarterback Joe Ganz to test their secondary, which he did to the tune of 4 touchdowns and some 350 yards passing. Ganz did throw a couple of interceptions, one of which wasn't really his fault as it bounced off a player's hands. At any rate, with the successes of the passing game, we didn't need to necessarily run the ball. Our offense took what their defense was giving us, and we won the ball game handily. I suspect we'll see plenty of rushing in the weeks to come, especially with some talented running backs carrying the football. (I'm still not sold on starter Marlon Lucky, but we'll see how he responds to the new coaching staff.)

And so we move on to preparations for game #2. The Spartans of San Jose State come calling this Saturday, and I believe we'll see even more intensity this week. More predictions coming on Friday, and until then....

GO BIG RED!!!

Huskers vs. Broncos

2008-08-30T14:39:00.002-06:00

The billboard coming into downtown Lincoln on I-180, past Memorial Stadium, reads, "The Journey Begins," with the Sears National Championship trophy in the background. And so the journey does begin today, when first-year head coach Bo Pelini and his staff leads the Huskers through the tunnel and onto the Memorial Stadium turf to take on the Broncos of Western Michigan University. The drama and sorrow of the Bill Callahan era is over, and the anticipation and hopes of Husker Nation rest with it's new leader. It all begins at the 6:00 p.m. kickoff today. Husker Football, 2008!

The Huskers won't come out looking particularly sharp today, what with a new coaching staff, new starters and personnel, and a new philosophy. There will be a few, maybe several, moments of sloppiness. Lots of first-game jitters and such. But I can tell you this - there will be some real moments of old-fashioned, smash-mouth, Husker Blackshirt-worthy defense. The Broncos will have a hard time getting on the board today. Oh make no mistake, they will score, but not often and not enough. The Husker offense will shake off the rust after the first quarter, and the Big Red train will find the end zone multiple times en route to a 38-13 opening day win. Bold prediction? Maybe. But based on what I've seen through spring ball and fall camp, this team has something the past four Husker teams have sorely lacked, and that's intensity. They may not be the best in the nation, yet, but they have intensity. Any player who calls Bo head coach and doesn't have intensity, won't be playing for long. Period.

See ya tomorrow for a recap.

GO BIG RED!

In Huskers We Trust

2008-08-27T08:23:00.002-06:00

I believe in Tom, the AD Almighty, the restorer of Pride and Respect, and in Bo Pelini, His prodigal coach,

Who was brought in by Frank Solich, born of the 2003 defensive swagger, suffered under Steve Pederson, was looked over, fired, and moved on.

He descended into Oklahoma. The third year with LSU, He won a National Championship.

He ascended back to Nebraska and sits at the right hand of Tom, the AD, whence He shall come to judge the offense and the defense.

I believe in the pinnacle of college football, the University of Nebraska, the Assistant Coaches, the Watson Coast Offense, the resurrection of the team, and national prominence everlasting!

Amen

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, kids of all ages, the time hath approached once again for another college football season! Opening Day is a mere three days away, and the anticipation is once again running high and mighty that we shall see a much-improved Nebraska football program. When I say much-improved, I don't know that will necessarily translate into wins as we adjust to yet another new coaching staff and philosophy. But, based on what we've seen, read, and heard thus far, it would appear that first-year head coach Bo Pelini has the attitude and swagger to bring back the smash-mouth kind of football which Big Red Land has become accustomed to in their proud history. We're going to knock a few people on their butts this season. That I can guarantee, and I suspect the Huskers will improve on last season's 5-7 mark. I also suspect the Huskers will be back in serious contention for a Big Twelve title by next season. Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if they scare a few folks into thinking they are good enough to compete for a title this year. But, I'm trying not to let my excitement cloud my good judgement.

As I did last year, I will plan on posting my prediction each week and post-game commentary, and I look forward to following the story of the 2008 season as we begin to write the next chapter of Cornhusker Football.

As for the Lady Husker Volleyball Team, the biggest story this year is that they are beginning the season ranked #7 in the nation. This is a story because it's an unfamiliar place for them as they are normally pre-season ranked in the top five. But, with only a couple of returning seniors, the Huskers will look to develop a few top, yet young and inexperienced, recruits. Things won't be easy for them out of the gate, as they open the season on Friday against second-ranked Stanford, then battle fourth-ranked USC on Sunday. Good grief - no mercy, huh?

GO BIG RED!!!!

Boycott Anheuser-Busch

2008-08-22T10:52:00.003-06:00

Help me in boycotting Anheuser-Busch since they are sellouts (to In-Bev, a Belgium brewer).

Drop your beer off at my house & I will dispose of it.

We'll teach those bastards.

(Thanks to my brother for giving me this great idea for beer disposal.)

MonaVie

2008-08-14T06:50:00.003-06:00

So, I had originally begun typing a rather lengthy post with the intention of recapping the last month in the life of the Campbell Clan, but when the post began to take on the image of an end-of-the-year Christmas letter, I trashed it. Suffice it to say it's been another crazy month, and I again apologize for my lack of writing. The desire is there, the time is not. Rather than a recap, allow me to just sort of tell you what's on my mind.

Work is killing me, people. Don't get me wrong - I love what I do for a living, but I despise the hours. Shift work is nothing short of hell on family life. Especially second shift, which is what I will be moving to next week. I am coming off of third shift, which is rough because of the about-face in sleeping patterns one has to overcome. Second shift leaves me with little opportunity to see my son, save for the weekends, and leaves my wife at home every evening to handle the kids and their activities by her lonesome. And because of my lack of seniority, second and third shift is all I will work for quite sometime. Whilst I love what I do, my enjoyment of the job isn't enough to overcome the not-so-great hours.

So, I'm working on getting the heck out of the job. How so, you ask? Through an amazing product called MonaVie. I discovered this product through my brother and sister-in-law, and while it took me awhile to become convinced (damn skeptics!) of it's benefits, I am head-over-heels crazy about it. MonaVie is a nutrional beverage containing nineteen of the nature's top super-fruits. The crown jewel of the juice is the Brazilian acai (prounounced ah-sigh-ee) berry.

This little berry has been around for centuries, and has been consumed by the natives to promote healing and overall good health. The western world, until recently, had not experienced the benefits of the berry because there did not exist a method of processing it before it would literally go bad. Monarch Health Sciences and MonaVie solved this problem through a flash-freezing process which retains about ninety-seven percent of the berry's nutrional value.

Thus, the birth of MonaVie. The health benefits my family has experienced since drinking this juice have been nothing short of amazing. No more aches and pains, much-improved sleeping, and prolonged energy. I can't say enough about the juice, and the fact that it's all-natural, healthy, and incredibly tasty makes it even better.

But beyond the health benefits, the company itself uses a large portion of its profits to benefit the Amazonian community. Through the M.O.R.E. Project, MonaVie is building housing, providing education, and helping to curb the orphan problem in the country of Brazil. The company is doing wonderful things with its resources, and I am proud to be a part of it.

Of course, there are the naysayers, and plenty of them. A quick Google search will reveal plenty of commentary against MonaVie, but I have found most of it to be arguable, and a lot of it just plain wrong. Regardless of the product, there are going to be those that have nothing good to say. My excitement comes from my personal experience with MonaVie, and I need nothing else.

And now the plug - if I've piqued your interest at all, leave me a comment or drop me a line at huskerkev@gmail.com, and I will be happy to discuss this with you more. I'm excited to be on the road to a healthier financial life, and in the process of leaving behind the shift work I have come to despise.

Peace.

Catchin' Up

2008-07-05T11:26:00.004-06:00

Here it is the fifth of July already, and I noticed the date on my last post was June 3rd. Wow. The last four weeks have been nothing short of a blur. As mentioned in that last post, we did get moved and are only beginning to "settle in." I call this particular change in housing my first real move, only because all of my previous moves were very simple - I had only myself to move. This time, however, we had a family of five to move. Much more than merely a couple of pickup loads. It was quite the daunting task, but even more daunting is the looming task of unpacking, deciding where to store things, and making the new house our home. Still, there is a strong sense of excitement as we walk the halls of the new house. Mandi and I often find ourselves commenting how much we love it, sometimes several times a day. Good stuff, and thanks to our dear friends Nicki and Alex and their daughter Hailey, as well as my brother and his wife, for all of their fantastic assistance in moving. We couldn't have done it without them!

And I'll be darned if my favorite holiday of the year has come to pass already. I will indeed be darned. Yes, the 4th of July, 2008 is in the history books, and I now have the excruciatingly long wait until next year before I can once again hold a beer in one hand, an explosive in the other, and feel good about it. I made the most of the holiday this year, as Mandi and I spend the evening of the third with close friends, beer, live music, and, of course, fireworks. Yesterday was Mandi's birthday, so I let her sleep in while the kids and I ate breakfast and headed out to get some fireworks for them. We then took Mandi to lunch at Applebees, and were joined by the aforementioned Nicki, Alex, and Hailey. After lunch, we came home to watch the kids shoot fireworks, then I headed off to help shoot a display for the town of Fremont. It was the biggest show I've ever been a part of, and it was amazing. Big shells, and lots of them!

Well, that quickly and briefly catches you up to the latest with the Campbell Clan. I hope this slacker blogger can soon begin posting on more of a regular basis, as I have lots of topics but just so little precious time right now. Here's to all of you, and I hope your journeys are continuing to be good ones!

Peace.

'Dogs and Cats Living Together - Mass Hysteria!!'

2008-06-03T06:39:00.003-06:00

Quick - name the movie from which the title line came from (cue Jeopardy theme)..................if you said Ghostbusters, you'd be our big winner! I use that line often, and usually when life is just plain crazy, as it has been the last couple weeks. Check this out, yo;

After having our house on the market for nearly three months, and having several folks go through it, we got a call on the Thursday before last about a couple that was very interested. They needed to work out some financing, and then our guy would be in touch with our people, blah blah blah. They made us an offer, which was silly, so we gave them our bottom dollar. On Tuesday of last week, we got a call that they were willing to accept our price, and the financing had worked out. Exciting stuff, right?? Except that we would be homeless come July 1st if we hadn't found another home.....gulp. All of a sudden, we realized that if we had not found a home, made a deal, worked out our financing, and set a closing date all within a few days, we would never be able to close and move before July 1st. Holy &*%!

Okay, so, we sold our house last Tuesday, and immediately called our realtor with a list of houses we wanted to look at the very next day. He hooked us up, and we visited two or three, the last of which was one we had seen over and over and just kept coming back to see again. We finally figured it out; we needed to make an offer. So, back to the realtor's office to begin the billion sheets of paperwork. We made an offer, and gave the sellers until 6:00 p.m. that evening to respond. I went on to work, anxiously awaiting a call from Mandi as to the news. And call she did, at about 6:45, to say the seller had accepted our offer.

That's right, I said the seller accepted our offer!

Are you processing this, people? In about a twenty-four hour period, we sold our house, made an offer on another one, and set a closing date. Again I say, Holy &*%! We are now set to close on the 20th of June, will do just a bit of painting, and move the last weekend in June. It has been a whirlwind of a week, but quite an exciting one! Oh, and on top of all the happenings, I moved to third shift on the Thursday after we made the deal on the new house. If you've ever worked the night shift before, you know it takes some time to adjust, so you can imagine how crazy these last few days truly have been.

And, I don't anticipate things letting up for quite some time. Y'all have probably moved enough to know it's quite the task, so the days and weeks ahead will be filled with packing and general preparation, as well as last-minute details with the new house. I'll keep ya posted.

One more comment before I close - I previously promised I would tell you all about the new product I am proud to be a part of, and I still intend to do so in the near future. It's exciting stuff, and look for more on it very soon!

Dogs and cats living together - mass hysteria!!

Peace.

Running Club

2008-05-17T10:07:00.002-06:00

Saturday mornings are usually reserved for sleeping in, as they are the only mornings out of the week that my schedule allows for it. This morning, however, would be different. I got myself out of bed and across town to join a few members of our church for the inaugural meeting of the new running club. There were only a handful of us, but we are hoping our enthusiasm will spread to other members who are teetering on the edge of whether or not to join us. It was a fun time this morning as we ran about a mile-and-a-half, then sat down for a cup of coffee at the Mill.

If you would have told me a few months ago that I would be interested, passionate even, about running, I would have laughed at you, called you silly, and moved on. Thus, I found myself in one of those surreal states this morning as I trotted alongside some of who I consider Lincoln's top runners. The pastor of our church, who just ran the Boston Marathon, ran alongside me. Our club coordinator, who just ran the Lincoln Marathon, was with us as well. I kept asking myself if this group was where I really belonged in these early stages of learning the sport of running. I was a bit nervous as I drove across town, as I wondered just how I would fare alongside these more experienced runners. I'm glad I didn't allow my nervousness to stop me. Our time together was an incredible experience, and I have a good feeling I'm going to learn lots in the days and weeks ahead as I set my sites on next year's Lincoln Marathon.

This morning's fellowship taught me several things, but two lessons in particular stand out the most. First, every runner, no matter how experienced, started somewhere. I'm no different, and I was relieved to learn the pastor and the coordinator used to be in the same boat as I currently am. Second, I was thankful to learn that my running experience thus far is paying off, as it was not difficult to keep pace with the group. Granted, it was a slower pace and not that far, but it's still progress for me. Six months ago, I couldn't have done what I did this morning.

And so I go from here, excited to be seriously running for the first time in my life, excited to have goals and aspirations, and excited to be tweaking and toning the overall health of my body.

Peace.

United Methodist General Conference

2008-05-01T11:16:00.003-06:00

You may or may not be aware that my religious background was cultivated in the United Methodist Church. My Grandfather was a Methodist pastor, my Grandmother spent years as an organist, teacher, and music director in the church, and I was in turn raised in the Methodist church. Even though I no longer attend a UM church, I try to keep up-to-speed on all the latest.

This year, the United Methodist General Conference convened, as it does every four years. I have been following it through Jeff's blog, and his post from earlier today was of particular interest to me. The conference debated the never-ending homosexuality issue, and the results of that debate and subsequent vote, are...um.......honestly, I'm at a loss for words to describe my feelings. Interesting is the first adjective that tempts me, but it doesn't seem adequate.

Tell ya what. I'll just let you read what I have read today, and you can form your own thoughts, opinions, and insight. I'd love to hear what you think, either by commenting on my blog, via email, or in person. Let's generate some good discussion. What'dya say?

Here's Jeff's post, entitled "General Conference - The Sexuality Issue." In Jeff's post, you'll find another link to a blog which summarizes the entire day of debate on this issue. Happy reading, and I can't wait to hear from you.

No Regrets

2008-04-27T20:53:00.003-06:00

If you haven't read my previous post, that's quite alright, but you might scroll down a bit and take a look at what I chose for a title to that post before reading my commentary this time.....wait! On second thought, maybe you should check out that title after reading the following story. I'm guessing you'll fill your pants either way, but waiting might help you fill them a bit fuller. Which, of course, is what I aim to achieve. So, here goes....

A friend and I hit the road Friday afternoon traveling due North, bound for the fine city of Sioux Falls, SD, for a shooter's school for pyrotechnics. We were very much looking forward to the opportunity to get away for awhile, make some contacts, and hopefully learn a few things we didn't already know with regards to the fine art of professional fireworks. Of course, Old Man Winter was still having a very hard time letting go, as is typically the case during a mid-West April. We fluctuate between winter and spring all month long, and this weekend seemed to favor winter. After checking the weather forecast, I packed accordingly and was prepared for a chilly weekend.

During our three-hour trek, my friend and I found ourselves engaged in a philosophical discussion on how precious life is, and how we tend to take it for granted all too often. We both have the same basic goal, that being not to take any regrets with us when our time comes. I came to the realization years ago that the only guarantee we have in this life is that we will die. And since we have no clue when that time might come, we had better make the most of the days with which we have been blessed. The discussion unfolded from there as we talked about goals and aspirations, achievements and failures. We've all had these types of discussions in the past, I'm quite sure, but they never seem to get old.

On the heels of this discussion we found ourselves driving into what was becoming a bit of a snowstorm. Now, mind you, I am from Nebraska and have driven through my share of pretty nasty winter weather. This particular storm was nothing, comparatively speaking. As we approached Sioux Falls, however, it seemed to be getting a bit worse. Even so, it certainly wasn't anything to write home about. At least not until after we had encountered, "the bridge."

Before I continue, allow me to sidetrack a bit: You know those annoying little signs they always post right before bridges warning you that the bridge may be icy? "CAUTION: BRIDGE MAY BE ICY." Even in the dead of August when it's 10,000 degrees outside, those stupid signs are still there. "CAUTION: BRIDGE MAY BE ICY" Hello? Roads department? Have you noticed how frickin' hot it is out here?? Could ya maybe consider taking down your god damn sign until it's really necessary? But I digress...you see, because those signs are up all year, I have come to the point that I don't necessarily pay attention to them anymore. I know they are there, but I rarely consider what they have to say might actually be true.

Back to "the bridge." We began to ascend toward the peak of a bridge, and as we crossed the actual bridge, I began to realize I had lost all control of the truck and we were sliding at 75 mph. In a fraction of a second, many thoughts went through my mind, including a recap of the discussion we had just entertained ourselves with for an hour. My natural instincts to over-correct the steering wheel kicked in, and I began to turn the wheel in the direction I felt it needed to go. I then realized (still within this fraction of a second, mind you) that if we hit the dry pavement with my wheels cranked as they were, we would most-certainly roll, and who knows if we would survive. So, I began to steer the wheel back a bit in the hopes of saving the spin once we hit the dry pavement.

We were sliding closer and closer to the median, and quite honestly, I had no clue how this was going to end. At some point during the split second we were out-of-control, I remember thinking we would be fortunate if all we did was end up in the median. I knew, even after correcting myself with the wheels, that rolling was a distinct possibility. Amazing what the mind can process in a such a brief moment of time. Somehow, someway, we fishtailed a bit after we got past the ice and ended up in the same direction we started in, and on all four tires. No harm, no foul. Shaken? You bet. Pale? Absolutely. Lucky? Without a doubt.

Now I don't know if this whole incident was meant to happen in order to reinforce to myself my own preaching, but the timing of it all sure seems sensational. I am thankful to have been blessed with life, I am thankful for having survived our South Dakota bridge incident, and I will go forward from here with an even greater appreciation. Oh, and I will damn hard to take no regrets to my grave.

Peace.

I'm Still Alive!!!!!

2008-04-20T21:30:00.003-06:00

How in God's name can it be April 20th already? How is that possible?? I swear I just finished wrapping gifts and placing them underneath the Christmas tree, and yet here we are on the verge of Spring already. Funny how that works, because as fast as time has seemingly blown right on by, this winter has been especially long and harsh, at least compared to the last several Nebraska winters.

But I didn't come here to tell you that today.

Actually, I'm not at all sure what exactly I did come here to tell you. I've got so many different topics floating around in the dark crevices of my bean that I'm not so sure where to begin. In all honesty, I guess the real reason for this particular post is to simply let you know that I am still amongst the living and breathing. I'm still here. Usually. At least in the flesh.

Still, for lack of a better way of recapping all that has occurred since the last time I posted anything (which was about the exciting end to the adoption proceedings - you can read it here), I'm going to provide a short list of the events that have taken place:

Our church hosted its biggest outreach event of the year the weekend before Easter, called the Big Hunt. Hundreds of kids and their parents, thousands of candy-stuffed plastic eggs, tons of prizes, tons of food, tons of fun. My wife was a volunteer, which took lots of her time during the few weeks before the event. My contribution was to stay home with the kids so she could contribute directly. That's okay, right?

Our house officially went on the market several weeks ago, and we have begun looking for a bigger and better place. We have sort of stalled though. We've had a couple of serious lookers, but they have not panned out. At least not yet. Things just aren't moving very fast right now, though we've been told the market is on the brink of change. Still, it's proven to be an excruciating process thus far, if for no other reason that the waiting game.

Kaedyn started Spring soccer. He's in a more competitive league this year, though still run by the YMCA. He has really made some progress in his abilities. It's enough to bring tears of pride to his Dad's eyes. His first few games were on Friday evenings, which prevented me from attending due to work. But he had one this afternoon (Sunday), so I finally got to see him play. He really has command of his game, and communicates with his teammates very well. He even scored this afternoon, too! It was quite exciting!!

Mandi and I attended her sister's wedding in Florida this past weekend. It was amazing. Seriously. We flew out of Omaha early Saturday morning, and it was blowing, snowing, and cold. When we landed on Marco Island, Florida, it was 86 degrees, sunny, and wonderful! We spend three days at Marco Beach Ocean Resort, and made the absolute most of our time. We went on a excursion to see dolphins and hunt for sea shells, spent lots and lots of time on the beach, went on a private cruise into the gulf to watch the sunset, then enjoyed a fancy dinner and drinks after the wedding itself. An incredible time we won't soon forget, and I will post pictures very soon.

And finally, you had to know this was coming. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the Huskers officially kicked off the Bo Pelini era with their annual Red-White Spring Game this weekend. It was only the second time in NCAA history that a Spring game has been sold out. 82,000+ packed the old stadium to cheer on the...uh...er...Big Red, and, um, Big White, I guess. Anyway, so it was just a practice. If you don't know anything about Husker Football, I can't possibly expect you to understand. It's exciting. Anticipation is once again very high, and lots of folks are hoping the new coaching staff will usher in some good old fashioned Nebraska-style smash-mouth football.

Well, that's mostly it. I've had a few other events dotted in and amongst what I have listed above. Definitely enough to keep me very busy. I will leave you with this - I briefly mentioned in the past a new adventure I have begun. I am growing more and more passionate about this adventure with each passing day. I am going to do a full write-up on it in my next post, which will be in the next few days, and I can't wait to tell you about it. Until then, peace.

It's A Boy!

2008-03-12T08:45:00.004-06:00

We'll call it 11:36 a.m. officially. That was about the time yesterday's adoption hearing ended, and about the time Kaedyn became a Campbell and is from this day forward, legally considered my son. While the relationship between he and I has not, nor will not change, it is incredibly satisfying to now have all of the legal rights as a father. I no longer have to concern myself with the legal ramifications of trying to protect Kaedyn from his biological father. No more worries of being in contempt by not allowing court-ordered visitations. No more worries about who has what rights, legally and/or morally. It's very refreshing, and a wonderful feeling, and thanks to all of you who offered words of support and encouragement.

As far as the hearing itself, it was much easier and much quicker than we had anticipated. Per our attorney, we expected a line of questioning from the judge pertaining to the parental responsibility Andy (Kaedyn's bio-father) had displayed in recent months. Instead, he simply asked Kaedyn a few "small-talk" questions as he signed the papers, and that was that. Our attorney said nary a word, besides to thank the judge when the hearing ended. It all happened so quick, we found ourselves a bit dazed. Oh, and in case you hadn't figured it out, Andy did not appear yesterday. Which begs the question of whether or not he even knew the hearing was taking place. Doesn't matter now, I guess.

I'm certainly not ignorant enough to think we'll never have to deal with him again, as I'm sure the time will come when Andy will call or stop by with a desire to see Kaedyn. And, I'm certain there will come a time in the future, near or distant, when Kaedyn will express a desire to see Andy. Therein lies the challenge; we will go forward from here, but very carefully so as to remain open, understanding, and sensitive to Kaedyn's feelings about and toward Andy.

But for now, Kaedyn is legally my son as of 11:36 a.m. yesterday, which means I need to give that guy at the tobacco shop a call - going to need a box of "It's a Boy!" cigars!!

Court Hearing

2008-03-08T14:18:00.002-06:00

This coming Tuesday has the potential to be quite the historical event in the life of the Campbell Clan. Our first court hearing, and the next step in the proceedings to adopt Kaedyn, is slated for Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. We hope it is the last hearing, as well.

To quickly update you, our attorney made a few attempts at contacting Kaedyn's biological father, Andy, to serve notice of the court hearing on Tuesday. He was unable to locate Andy after attempting several different possible addresses, so we moved to the next step of publishing a public notice. Still no response from Andy. This doesn't mean he did not see the notice, it just means he didn't respond. He still has the right to appear at Tuesday's hearing and contest the proceedings, and my guess is he will do just that if he is indeed aware the hearing is taking place.

We were visited by a guardian ad litem last Saturday, as per required procedure. The guardian's purpose was to visit with us and make sure we understand exactly what adopting Kaedyn means in terms of parental rights and responsibilities, and to make sure Kaedyn is completely comfortable and has a grasp of what we are doing, and why. The guardian seemed satisfied with his visit, and will recommend the adoption to the judge on Tuesday.

At this point, this whole thing can go one of two ways: first, and optimally, Andy does not show up at the hearing, we present our evidence for the adoption of Kaedyn, the judge approves, hearing over. Let the celebration begin! Or, second, Andy does show up, can't put his pride and therefore good judgement aside, argues against us and the adoption, the judge sets a trial date, and we prepare for a potentially long, drawn-out court battle against a person who, in my humble opinion, lost the right to be a father a very long time ago.

While scenario #2 above would be the more difficult path to have to follow, we are very confident in our evidence against Andy and have no reason to believe he would stand a chance to win. We are very quickly approaching a full year since he has had contact with Kaedyn. No phone calls, no letters, not even so much as an attempt at contact. Furthermore, we have received a whopping $60 in child support since last April. Laughable. The lack of contact and child support is the most compelling evidence against Andy, and would most-certainly bury him in the eyes of a judge, but we would still prefer not to even have to present that evidence in a court battle. My biggest reasoning for this is because I just don't want Kaedyn to have to be exposed to what will surely be an emotionally-charged proceeding. I have no doubts it could even get ugly at times, and my son has already been through enough. I pray, and I hope, it all ends Tuesday.

I will keep you posted, as always. I thank you for your thoughts, prayers, encouragement, and support. I ask you for more of the same as Tuesday approaches.

Reflections of a Thirty-Six-Year-Old

2008-03-03T10:23:00.002-06:00

Today marks the 36th anniversary of my birthday, and I put it that way for a number of reasons. I admit the underlying reason is most-likely due to my attendance at a workshop a few days ago, where I was introduced to some ideas on conflict resolution. The instructor was in the midst of a discussion on verbal cues and voice inflections, and how we often hear something different than what the person speaking to us actually intended on saying. To make his argument, he asked us five separate questions and we were to write our answers on paper. One of the questions was, "How many birthdays does the average human being have?" We tend to focus on the word 'average' in the above sentence, and then proceed to write our best, scientific and/or biological guess pertaining the average human lifespan. The answer? One. Humans only have one actual birthday, then we often celebrate the annual anniversary of that birthday. Hard to argue with such logic.

As this day approached over the course of the last few weeks, my wife and family asked me several times how I wanted to celebrate. My immediate reaction was to tell them I wasn't interested in celebrating, per se. I didn't really need any reminders that I am another year older, and I certainly didn't need and/or want to celebrate that fact with a lot of attention and unnecessary hoopla. As I arose this morning for my usual run, however, a thought occurred to me. Maybe I should celebrate. Maybe I should thank God for blessing me with another year of existence. Maybe I should greet this day with a celebratory attitude, and reflect a bit on this thirty-six-year-old life. After all, it's been quite the ride thus far, and while we are never guaranteed anything, all of the forthcoming events in my future and that of my family makes things look quite peachy.

So, as the dogs and I approached the end of the driveway to begin our morning trot, I lifted my face to the sky and silently prayed something of the following:

'Thank you, God, for this day. Thank you for the blessing of my thirty-six years. Thank you for providing me with a life-partner who keeps me grounded and completes me. Thank you for my kids who keep me young, make me laugh, and help me see the immense beauty in the tiny things. Thank you for my amazing family, both immediate and extended. Thank you for the blessing of friends with whom to share life-experiences. Thank you for the sunrise this morning, and the serenade of the birds. Thank you for the basics: a home, nourishment, and health. Thank you for the prospects of a bright future. Yes, Lord, thank you for this day and a thirty-sixth anniversary celebration of my birthday. Amen.'

Finally, another realization hit me square in the face early on this morning. It dawned on me just how much I enjoy recognizing and celebrating others' birthday anniversaries. Maybe I ought to think about that whilst my family and friends desire to recognize me on this day. Maybe I ought to quit being such a grump about it, and live in the moment. Thus, my resolve for today is to welcome the good wishes of others, and appreciate this thirty-six-year-anniversary-of-my-birthday.......aw, screw it - it's a birthday, for Pete's sake!

Gang Green - 2008 Polar Bear Plung

2008-02-29T11:19:00.001-06:00

I know I've spent quite a bit of space talking about our plunge, so I promise this will be the last of it. If you can't tell, I'm proud to serve Special Olympics, and I'm proud of our team!

Polar Plunge Pics!

2008-02-26T13:22:00.015-06:00

As promised, here are several pictures from the Polar Plunge which took place this last Saturday. You can read all about the plunge in my last post, so I won't bore you with any further details. Happy viewing!!

Our theme this year was "Gang Green," thus, the green outfits. I'm the second one from the right, wearing the very stylish and sassy green mullet.

This is Ash, our Rescue 9-1-1 Dog. Ash was the only smart one of our group - she chose to avoid the water as long as she could while the rest of us plunged. She did eventually join us, though. Probably because she felt sorry for us.

On the approach....

Making entry.....

We've plunged!

It is at this point that one realizes just how much human beings were not meant to resemble anything remotely close to polar bears. Folks, it's cold!!

Ahhhhh....warm sunshine.....ahhhhhh.

Thanks for taking a look - check out my next post for a video of our plunge!

Polar Plunge Recap

2008-02-24T23:03:00.003-06:00

If you thought I fell off the face of the earth, vanished into thin air, or just plain ceased to exist, I am back to tell you not to fear. I am still around, I am still breathing, I am still alive and kicking. The past two weeks in the lives of the Campbell Clan has been pretty crazy, but we are finally getting a chance to breathe again. As I have done many times in the past, I thank you for your patience!

If you've been checking in now and again, you are aware this past Saturday was the annual Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Nebraska. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am incredibly proud to announce it was a huge success!! We began plunging at 10:30 on Saturday morning, and while the temperature climbed to nearly forty degrees for the first time in several weeks, the water at Holmes Lake was nothing short of bitterly cold. In order to make a place for us to jump, the Lincoln Fire Department began chopping at the ice on Thursday night, using chainsaws and axes in an attempt to tackle the job. After ruining several pieces of equipment, they ended up bringing in a backhoe to get through the fourteen inches of ice on the lake. Yes, you read right - fourteen inches of ice. Paramedics from the dive team stood by as the event unfolded, and fortunately, not a soul was harmed. Here are some statistics from this fantastic event:

Number of plungers: 176 (tripled from last year)
Amount of money raised: $40,000 ($27,000 last year)
Water temperature at time of plunge: Didn't ask, don't want to know
Inches of ice on the lake: 14
Oldest plunger: 61 years young
Youngest plunger: 9 years old

Again, a wonderful experience and a wonderful event. One of my fellow plungers is working on putting together a cd of pictures taken that morning. When I have the cd in my hot little hands, I will be sure and post them for all to see. Thanks to all who donated, encouraged, and who were there in person to witness my plunge! See ya next year!!

Immigration Gumballs

2008-02-14T13:04:00.002-06:00

This video by Roy Beck has been emailed to me a couple of times. Admittedly, I made an assumption before watching that what I was going to see was another conservative-minded opinion on why the United States needs to rid the land of immigrants, beef up the border patrols, etc. After watching, however, I found myself really thinking about what Mr. Beck presented and how he presented it. I've not done much research on the effects of immigration, positive or negative, so I cannot give a very educated response to what Mr. Beck has said in this clip. Nevetheless, it got my wheels spinning. Have a look, and let me know your thoughts.

HELP!!!!

2008-02-08T12:53:00.000-06:00

Hello y'all! In my last post, I made the announcement that I would be sacrificing myself for the second straight year by plunging into the icy waters of Holmes Lake in Lincoln. Whatever for, you ask?? To raise moola for Special Olympics Nebraska in the Polar Plunge, 2008!! Special Olympics is an organization I hold near and dear to my ever-lovin' heart. Here's the problem - since I posted last, I HAVE HAD ONLY ONE, (1), UNO, UNE, ONE DONATION!!!!!!!

Thanks, Mommy!!

Please hook a plunger up and visit the website I've set up to make a donation, if you can. I would certainly appreciate your generosity with whatever you feel you can give, even it's just a buck. I have a long ways to go to reach my $1000 dollar goal and would hate to fall horribly short! Thanks for considering!!!!!!

Freezin' For A Reason, '08!

2008-01-31T13:31:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year again. The wind is bone-chilling cold, the snow is blowing and falling on about a weekly basis, and just a glance outside makes a person want to don a heavy coat and warm gloves. But all of this makes no difference to a select few of us who are preparing to participate in the annual Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics.

That's right - myself and about four of my coworkers will once again plunge into the icy waters of Holmes Lake in Lincoln, after the fire department finishes chopping up the ice to make it possible! I am in the process of raising funds for this benefit, and have made it easy for you to donate, should you so choose. Just follow the link below to my fundraising page, and rest assured it is all secure, fast, and easy!

If you're in the area on Saturday, February 23rd, at 10:00 a.m., feel free to dress warm and stop by Holmes Lake to cheer us on. It will be great fun, and the bigger the crowd of folks who are cheering for us, the better!! Thanks for considering a donation and your continued support and well-wishes, and I hope to see you there!

http://www.firstgiving.com/bigkev

Wind of Change

2008-01-11T18:29:00.000-06:00

The wind of change blows straight
Into the face of time
Like a stormwind that will ring
The freedom bell for peace of mind
Let your balalaika sing
What my guitar wants to say

Aaaaaaa....classic Scorpions. I can't help but hum this tune from time-to-time these days, as the year is just fifteen days old and the wind of change is blowing quite fiercely. It's all good change, at least to this point, I think. Oh, and since I know you're wondering just what a balalaika is, you can see for yourself here.

The first big change of the year was at work. After a lengthy application process, I have received a promotion and am now an Emergency Services Dispatcher III (as opposed to an ESD I or II), or commonly known as a supervisor. To be honest, when the position originally came open, I hadn't even considered applying as I didn't feel I had been employed at the center nearly long enough. Four years of time didn't seem like much compared to some of my coworkers who had eclipsed the decade mark and beyond. But when several of those very coworkers strongly encouraged me to apply, how could I say no? Don't get me wrong - I certainly did not make a decision based solely on their suggestions, but their support was definitely a factor. While I gave the process my full attention and best efforts, I still did not think I stood much of a chance considering I was the "newest" of the applicants. You can imagine my shock, surprise, and excitement when I was offered the position. I am humbled, and ready to meet head-on the new challenges which lay ahead.

The next big change this year is my decision to become a Mona Vie distributor. I have but once tried my hand at a multi-level marketing business, and failed miserably. Since that experience, I have always told myself I would never again get involved in such an operation, unless I was very passionate about the product, the business, and the opportunity. Mona Vie has fulfilled that passion, and I am excited about where this has the potential to lead. I am just getting started, and am having the time of my life! The product itself is a nutritional beverage, combining nineteen of nature's super-fruits in terms of essential vitamins and nutrients. It's signature fruit is the acai berry found in the Amazon, and the entire mix is completely natural - no additives. I've never seen my family experience such a complete feeling of overall health and wellness. The company makes no "miracle" claims, but instead simply allows the evidence speak for itself. I will soon have a website dedicated to my new adventure, and will post that in the near future.

Finally, I wrote awhile back about the steps we were taking toward my adoption of Kaedyn. The process has been quite slow, as I expected, and there hasn't been much to update on. Frankly, there still isn't. I had to have a complete background check done, and the results of the check had to be forwarded to our attorney before his office could move any further. That process took nearly three weeks, and we are now at the point of serving papers to Kaedyn's biological father. Trouble is, we are fairly certain he is living in Lincoln, but have no clue as to a specific address. Thus, our attorney opted to send a certified letter to his last known address. Assuming this attempted contact is unsuccessful, we then post a public notice in the local paper which has to run for three weeks. Whether he responds to this or not, and what happens as a result, is nothing but speculation at this point. Therefore, I will avoid said speculation until we have further developments.

I have been waiting patiently for this opportunity for nearly eight years, and while beginning this process has stirred some excitement, I am still willing and able to continue waiting patiently. Even if things do not turn out as we hope, the connection Kaedyn and I have as father and son will never be gone. What is really important is not what a piece of paper or official document states. My son is everything in the world to me, and nothing will ever take that away. Ever.

Yes, the wind of change is blowing fiercely in these parts, and we are running out to meet it! With the year just a couple of weeks old, I would love to hear about some of your changes thus far, or soon coming, or planned for the distant future. Feel free to comment...

Orange Bowl Champs!

2008-01-04T09:26:00.000-06:00

The 2007 Kansas Jayhawk football team began the season as barely a blip on anyones radar. After their 6-6 campaign in 2006, the college football ranking powers-that-be gave them little or no regard as a team who might possess enough talent to crack the top twenty-five.

'Course, the Kansas football team is pretty used to utter disregard. For years, Kansas has been regarded as an easy 'W' for teams in the hunt for a national title. Kansas week usually meant about thirty minutes of playing time for the opposing starting squad, then a good hard practice for the backups. Heck, Kansas is a basketball school, for Pete's sake. Nothing more than a league doormat on the gridiron.

Problem is, someone forgot to inform head coach Mark Mangino and the rest of the Jayhawk football squad of such this year. Or, maybe they just missed that campus memo.

After beginning the season unranked, Kansas blasted nearly everyone on their schedule as they rose to #2 in the nation, their highest ranking in school history. Once they stubbed their toe against Missouri, though, the critics surfaced again.

"Their schedule was too easy."
"They really weren't that good."
"Told ya so."

And once again, Kansas faded into the college football background in the eyes of most of the nation. Once again, the forgotten Jayhawks. Once again, a doormat. Though their success this season earned them a birth in the Orange Bowl against Virginia Tech, it seemed just a courtesy invite. Surely KU didn't stand a chance. Once again, Mangino and Company missed that memo.

The Jayhawks came to play last night, and they played with the chip on their shoulder they have carried all season. They played intelligently, they played with fire, and they played to win. The entire team seemed to play with a confidence which is normally found in teams who are on the "big stage" year after year. Such has not been the case for Kansas, but one couldn't tell last night. The Jayhawk defense swarmed to the ball, created turnovers, and hit hard. Quarterback Todd Reesing made his mistakes, but made just as many fantastic decisions. The Jayhawks will take their 24-21 season-ending victory and the Orange Bowl trophy home with them. More importantly, they take the respect and admiration of the college football world home with them.

Congratulations, Kansas. Welcome to the big-time. Savor this victory, for it is a special, special moment in the history of your university, and you've earned it!

One Year Old!

2008-01-03T13:22:00.000-06:00

"Biotikology" is quickly approaching the one-year mark of existence, and I am happy to report I have thoroughly enjoyed the benefits of blogging over the course of the past year. Although I still have trouble finding the time to write as much as I would like, blogging has at least given me the means to share with others what's on my mind. In addition, I have had the opportunity to keep in touch with others who count themselves amongst the community of bloggers.

Many thanks to those of you who have contributed to the discussions, either by adding comments or visiting with me in person. Also thanks to those who continue to encourage further writing - it's always a pleasure to know people are reading! And finally, I'm always hoping and looking for new wisdom. Feel free to comment on anything and everything, or suggest a new topic!

How 'Bout You??

2008-01-02T10:19:00.000-06:00

Since the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve the other night, I've been thinking a lot about what 2008 has in store for me, my family, and my friends. Mandi and I had a discussion about our predictions for 2008, and it included everything from finances to careers to family matters. Continued weight-loss, restructuring our schedules to accommodate more time with the kids and ourselves, and strengthening our financial situation were just a few of our "resolves."

So now I'm wondering what some of you have in mind for this new year. Are you planning big changes? Are you hoping/wishing for something? Anything new and exciting which you hope will come to pass in 2008?

I'm looking forward to reading some of your thoughts, should you so choose to comment!

New Year Thoughts

2007-12-31T23:22:00.001-06:00

As I type this post, there is approximately 37 minutes remaining of 2007, and what a year it has been. As I look back on all the events, I must say the one achievement I am most proud of is my healthier living. As a result of choosing to eat right and exercise daily, I have lost right around 110 pounds. I feel better, look better, and fit into clothes I never dreamed I'd put on again.

All of that said, my weight loss has slowed way down over the last few weeks, and I took on an attitude of maintaining, as opposed to losing. I am disappointed in myself, to a degree, as I set a goal before the holidays to continue to lose despite the temptations of holiday goodies and heavier eating. Alas! As the end-of-the-year holiday traditions unfolded, I became a bit too weak. I haven't gained any weight back, but I haven't lost, and I haven't eaten nearly as healthy as I know I should.

Thus, I am making another resolution, just as I did on New Year's Day last year, to eat healthy and continue to shed the weight. I am also going to meet with several folks who are experienced marathon runners so that I might really get into the finer points of training to run that marathon in the Spring of 2009. It seems only fitting, as I celebrate one full year of healthy life-style changes, to recommit, refocus, and get back in the game!

Happy New Year to all of you! May your dreams and wishes come true, and may your days and weeks be full of God's grace and blessings!!

Peace.

A Tale of Two Christmas Letters, Part II

2007-12-22T11:31:00.000-06:00

If you read my last post, you know all about how there came to exist two Christmas letters from the Campbell Family in 2007, and you have most-likely read version number one. My wife and I work hard to maintain our address book, but due to relocations, computer crashes, and other various reasons, we inevitably find ourselves missing a few important addresses. If you are one who did not receive a hard copy of our letter and current pictures to go with, please accept our apologies. Your absence in our address book is certainly not to be taken personally!

As promised, I have included the traditional version of our annual greetings below, as well as our holiday pictures. We wish you a warm and wonderful holiday celebration, and a prosperous New Year! - The Campbell Family

Season’s Greetings One and All!

The tree is up and adorned with its decorations, holiday displays dot the neighborhood, and carols new and old fill the airwaves of local radio stations. Several rounds of Christmas goodies have gone to their various destinations, and holiday gatherings are abundant. Even Mother Nature has joined the scene, adding a few blasts of winter precipitation to create the proper landscape. As the kids watch an old Christmas movie favorite, it seems the perfect moment to compose our annual recap of the year’s events & highlights.

Korynne turned one in May, and is constantly on the go while trying to keep up with her two older siblings. She loves to explore most everything, and even caused Mommy’s first-ever call to poison control this summer. She’s proven to be quite fearless while scaling the tallest cupboards, counters, and tables. Frankly, we’re beginning to believe she thinks of herself as immortal as she has no qualms about tackling Daddy, or throwing herself in the middle of a family wresting match. Her willingness to play rough, though, is countered by her sweet and loving disposition. Korynne’s vocabulary is expanding quickly as she surprises us with a new word almost daily.

It’s been quite a busy year for the princess of the house. Madilyn turned three in August, and began preschool (or “pretty school” as she refers to it) in September. She has made lots of new friends, and rarely comes home without a new story to tell. While Madilyn has proven to be quite the strong-willed little girl, she is very willing to help Mommy and Daddy with various tasks around the house, her favorite being meal preparation. She seems to have fallen in love with the color pink, as she will often mention the need to go shopping for more “pink princess stuff.”

Big-brother Kaedyn is just a few weeks away from his ninth birthday, and is thoroughly enjoying third grade. He’s seen his share of past struggles in school staying focused and knowing when it is appropriate to “goof off.” He has put most of those issues behind him, however, and has taken a giant step forward in his maturity. In his spare time, you can find him buried in an exciting new book, and he is usually at or near the top of his class in terms of total minutes spent reading each month. Kaedyn continues to enjoy (most of the time) and excel in his role as big brother, especially since they are a good audience for his brand of humor - he loves to make others laugh, and is quite good at it!

Being home to raise her kids is an element of her life Mandi truly cherishes, but make no mistake; her calendar is always quite full! She’s in her twelfth year at Advantage Personnel, where she serves part-time doing marketing and office support, and continues to enjoy the social element of selling candles for PartyLite. In November, Mandi completed training to become a Doula, and will begin assisting mommies-to-be in their birthing processes. She’s so excited about her new adventure, and looks forward to continuing her studies in this field. Mandi continues to serve as the Finance Coordinator with her Mothers of Preschoolers group at church, and traveled to Nashville in September for their annual convention. She considers herself blessed to be part of such a tight-knit group of friends. Mandi has also made some big changes in her life, including daily exercise & healthy eating, helping her to lose almost 50 pounds. We also surprised Mandi with a party to celebrate her 30th birthday in July.

September began Kevin’s fifth year as an Emergency Services Dispatcher for Lincoln and Lancaster County. He continues to enjoy his work, and is currently awaiting an interview for a supervisory position. He recently began a new business adventure with MonaVie, and is in the throws of learning the finer points of presenting their product. After losing nearly 110 pounds, Kevin has set a goal to run the Lincoln Marathon in May of ’09. His training is underway, and he continues to research the best ways to continue his healthier living. His favorite pastime, though, is being a Daddy as he just can’t seem to get enough of his kids.

As we add the finishing touches to another year full of God’s grace and blessings, we pray for a warm and peaceful holiday season for each of you. May your New Year be full of the hope which comes through the birth and presence of Jesus Christ! Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!!

Love, the Campbell Family –
Kevin, Mandi, Kaedyn, Madilyn, and Korynne

A Tale of Two Christmas Letters, Part I

2007-12-20T23:01:00.000-06:00

Mandi and I finally finished writing our annual holiday letter this week, and they have all been folded, enveloped (is that a word?), and stamped. If they haven't already reached their destinations, they are well on their way. Normally, I enjoy composing our letter each year and look forward to recapping all of the events. The process is especially enjoyable when I have a hot cup of flavored coffee, a little Christmas music, and a few lights strung up to set the mood.

This year, though, was a tough one in which to find such joy. I found myself really struggling to wrap my brain around the magnitude of tragedies which affected our local community and beyond. Trying to compose a warm, feel-good Holiday letter in the midst of all the hurt was difficult at best.

Interestingly enough, I wound up with two letters. The first one was more of an effort to somehow cope with the aforementioned tragedies. After reading it, Mandi calmly told me it was well-written, but was definitely more blog-material as opposed to Christmas letter material. She was right, of course, and so I have copied onto this post for your reading pleasure, should you so choose. The second version of our letter was more traditional, and I will post that one separately for those of you who do not normally receive a hard copy and would be interested in reading it.

Here is the first version, which Mandi referred to as "Rev-Kevology." Cute, eh?

Season’s Greetings One and All!

The tree is up and adorned with its decorations, holiday displays dot the neighborhood, and carols new and old fill the airwaves of the local radio stations. Several rounds of Christmas goodies have gone to their various destinations, and holiday gatherings are abundant. Even Mother Nature has joined the scene, adding a few blasts of winter precipitation in order to create the proper landscape.

Such festive celebration, though, seems somewhat faded in the midst of the numerous tragic events over the past several days: a troubled teen walked into an Omaha mall with a high-powered rifle strapped to his shoulder and opened fire, killing eight people before taking his own life; four people died after gunmen opened fire at two Colorado churches; gunfire was exchanged between a couple of high school students in Los Angeles, all over somebody’s girlfriend; a bank in Lincoln was robbed at gunpoint yesterday. A few hours later, a father became upset after his daughter’s order wasn’t corrected at a Lincoln Wendy’s, so he pulled a gun on the young employee and threatened to kill him. Not to mention the ongoing carnage in Iraq, fighting in the Middle East, and on and on and on.

Sigh.

All of these events took place against the backdrop of our church’s Christmas drama. The storyline was centered around “Holly,” who struggled to find the peace and contentment which comes from understanding the meaning of Christmas. Near the end of the drama, Holly learned the meaning of Christmas comes from the knowledge and presence of Christ. It has admittedly been a struggle during this dark stretch of history to find and or feel the presence of Christ, and to know He is with us.

Fast-forward to this morning. We awoke to the first day of clear, blue sky and bright sunshine in quite some time, which immediately worked wonders for our attitudes. After our morning breakfast ritual, we piled into the van and began our trek to school to drop Kaedyn off for another adventurous day of third grade. Our next stop would be Belmont Recreation Center, where Madilyn would join her new friends for preschool, and then back home to hang out with 19-month-old Korynne. On the way home, a discussion began on the radio station we were tuned into about a single mom with three kids who had become homeless after a series of unfortunate and life-changing events. Thanks in-part to donations from that station’s listeners, the family was given a new home and a fresh start. The host of the show repeatedly thanked the listeners for their charity, but also mentioned hope as being a factor in this mom’s life.

Hope. Hearing that word struck a chord of beautiful resonance. We came to realize one of many messages from Christmas, and maybe the most important one for this year. In so many facets of this life, Jesus represents and embodies a sense of hope for each of us. God sent his Son so we could have hope, even during the seemingly darkest of days. If there were ever a central, basic message in all of the teachings of Jesus, it would have to be one of hope. Even in the darkest of days, when we struggle to comprehend life’s events, we have hope. Jesus not only represented hope, but provided us with a model of fortitude to change the world for the greater good, to press on through dark times, and most importantly, always feel God’s presence regardless of life’s circumstances.

From our house to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas, filled with a sense of hope, encouragement, and the presence of Christ. God Bless.

And So It Goes...

2007-12-11T12:02:00.000-06:00

The Lady Huskers saw their volleyball season come to a rather abrupt end the other night while competing in the NCAA tournament. The Huskers were one of eight remaining teams competing for a national title, and were expected to be in the final four. But, alas! The California Golden Bears had plans of their own, and shocked the Huskers by sweeping them three-games-to-none. It was a sad night in Husker Nation. I haven't posted about the volleyball team in quite some time, but you may remember my relenting about the Huskers' loss at Texas about midway through the season. While that match was their only loss of the regular season, the ladies never quite seemed to gain their finesse back. Texas exposed some weaknesses in Nebraska, and found some chinks in their immortal armor.

And so we move on. There is much to be excited about right now in Husker Nation. The football team has a new coach, Bo Pelini, who seems to be much more in touch with the residents of the state, and the direction of the program. This was never more evident than when Pelini was first introduced as the head coach. His first act as head coach was to turn all attention to his wife and kids as he thanked them for their continued support. He acknowledged the difficulty in being a spouse of a football coach, bouncing from job to job and location to location. Pelini immediately began forging an atmosphere of family and tight-knit relationships, which is expected to carry over to the athletic department. Yes, Husker Nation is filled with anticipation once again!

Meanwhile, the men's basketball team is looking better and better under the guidance of second-year head coach Doc Saddler. Husker Hoops has never resembled anything close to a national contender, but things are looking up as they continue to be competitive. Look out, Jayhawks, here come the Huskers! (Okay, that might be a bit of a stretch, but aim high, right??)

GO BIG RED!!

The Granddaddy of Them All

2007-11-30T23:17:00.000-06:00

I hate shopping. In fact, I despise it. I have absolutely no need to spend countless hours bouncing around shopping malls and department stores browsing through items I most likely don't need and probably couldn't afford anyway. Shopping, at least in the traditional sense, is torture. I'm the kind of person who knows exactly what I need, I go get it, I come home. Done. Nothing to it. You might, on occasion, find me browsing the power tools aisles at Menard's, but that's only when I have a few extra minutes to kill for some reason. I hate shopping.

All of that said, there are two very distinct situations in which I will engage in a traditional, stereotypical shopping trip: 1.) When my three-year-old-princess/daughter has me all to herself and requests to go to the store to look around. Because said princess has me wrapped around her little finger like a good little Daddy, I can't resist her big blue "pretty please" eyes whenever she decides a shopping trip is in order. Sigh. What can I say? 2.) Christmas is just around the corner, and Mandi and I have scheduled our annual shopping trip in which we spend one gigantic, long, huge, massive afternoon wiping our entire list of needed gifts. It's The Granddaddy Shopping Trip of Them All.

Today was the day for The Granddaddy. and Mandi and I were armed and ready. We were especially prepared because we decided at the beginning of this year to budget our savings contributions in order to accommodate Christmas, so there was no big dent in our checkbook, and no use of credit cards. Our mission began shortly before 1100 hours this morning when Grandma arrived to stay with the girls. Mandi and I hit the ground running, and our first stop was Toys R (I can't figure out how to make the 'R' a backwards one, like it's supposed to be) Us. It only took us about 80 minutes there, and everyone of the kids in the family was crossed off the list. Next stop: lunch. When engaged in such a massive operation, the only thing truly nourishing is a trip through the local Chinese buffet. And so it was for us, although after eating so healthy over the course of the last year, it wasn't quite as tasty. Nevertheless, it served us well, and at approximately 1300 hours we were off to Office Depot to find some holiday stationary on which to print our Christmas letter. Mission accomplished.

We have been on the market for a new digital camera to replace the hand-me-down which recently went to its grave. Lo and behold, what should be right across the street from Office Depot but a Best Buy. Oh yeah, baby, we were on a roll! We walked out of Best Buy 37 minutes later as proud owners of a new digital camera, then decided it was high-time to head downtown and patronize the God-send of all ice cream shops, Coldstone. Mmmmmm....ice cream. After filling our bellies with ice cream, we ran to Wal-Mart to finish our shopping. Now this is where our trip really took a form of shopping art. We were up against the clock during this last leg because we had to pick up our son from school. All told, we had approximately 40 minutes to get in, get out, and head to the school. We strategized on the way there, and we each had our assignments. I dropped Mandi off at the front door so she could get a head start, and once I found a place to park, I was off. It was a beautiful plan, executed to perfection, right up until our checker decided to chat with us as she restocked her plastic bags at a painfully slow rate. A little urging from Mandi, though, and she stepped it up and got us out of the Evil Empire that is Wal-Mart. Mission completed at 1540 hours.

All told, it was a great day. Mandi and I spent some quality time together, enjoyed each other, and completed the daunting task of our Christmas shopping. And, I won't have to go shopping for a very, very long time. I think I still have that glazed look. I hate shopping.

A Long Time Coming

2007-11-28T13:00:00.000-06:00

Nearly seven months ago, Mandi and I made the difficult decision to not allow Kaedyn's biological father (Andy) to continue with his court-ordered visitation schedule because we felt Andy was exposing Kaedyn to an environment which was simply not healthy. We also felt Kaedyn was placed at risk, both mentally and physically, due to the kinds of activities in which Andy chose to engage, even when he was with Kaedyn. The decision to stop visitation was not a difficult one with regards to Kaedyn's well-being, rather it was difficult because we put ourselves at risk in that we knew we would technically be in contempt of court since the visitation schedule was court-ordered. We did not, however, permanently ban Andy from seeing Kaedyn. We simply told him we needed to sit down and discuss our concerns before he would be allowed to see Kaedyn again.

As I said, that was nearly seven months ago, and we have not heard anything from Andy. No phone calls, no letters, no contact. Period. Not even one attempt. In Nebraska, it is possible to begin child-abandonment proceedings if a parent has had no contact with a child for six months. I mention this because in order for me to adopt Kaedyn, which has been a goal since Mandi and I met nearly seven years ago, one of two events must occur: 1. Andy must voluntarily forfeit his parental rights, or 2. Andy must have no contact with Kaedyn for six months, thereby falling under the Nebraska statutes of child abandonment.

The chances of Andy voluntarily giving up his parental rights were zero percent, at best. Our only hope was for Andy to discontinue contact with Kaedyn for a period of six months, and that has now come to pass. It was a long, painful wait, as just one phone call or letter would have reset the clock, so to speak. Mandi and I met with an attorney this morning, who feels our chances of winning this case are very good. We are fortunate in that this particular attorney has dealt with Andy before, so is familiar with his character, or lack thereof. The papers will be filed either yet today or tomorrow, and Andy should be served within a week.

We honestly have no clue how Andy will respond. If he chooses to contest, he will need to hire an attorney and we don't believe he has the resources to do so. As our attorney pointed out this morning, however, people can become quite creative when the need for money exists. We are excited about our chances, but cautiously moving forward as we realize there are a number of things we simply can't control. Who knows what God has in store for us, and all we can do now is pray. As this process carries on, I will continue to provide updates. In the meantime, please keep us, and especially Kaedyn, in your prayers.

'It Is Finished'

2007-11-24T11:34:00.000-06:00

This weeks' plethora of activities surrounding Thanksgiving did not allow time for my usual Husker football commentary and prediction before gameday. My thoughts on the game would have been way off anyway, as I felt as though Nebraska had found something to build on after throttling Kansas State a couple of weeks ago. Yesterday's final in Boulder was an excruciating 65-51 in favor of Colorado, leaving the Huskers with a mark of 5-7, unqualified for a bowl game, and a second losing season in just four years under Bill Callahan. It has been an awkward, painful ride under Callahan's guidance over the past four years, and especially this season. It took me quite a long time to figure out that Callahan was never quite the right fit for NU. Funny how winning, or even the anticipation of, will cloud the vision of even the most tenured and knowledgeable fan, but looking back over the past four years, I can now clearly see, even in Callahan's successes, how he was just not quite right for Nebraska.

The 2007 Nebraska Football campaign came to an end as the final second ticked off the clock in Boulder yesterday, and Athletic Director Tom Osborn wasted no time in meeting with the coaching staff this morning, then announcing the end of the Callahan and Company era at NU. The national search for a new coach has begun, and with all of the college football resignations and firings across the nation, I'm not even going to begin to speculate as to who might be our next coach. I have my hopes, and a couple of ideas in mind, but I'm just going to sit back and watch it unfold. I admit my exhaustion and numbness after what has transpired this season, which probably means I put way too much into Nebraska football. What can I say? I love the sport itself, and I love the Huskers even more. It's just who I am. I will anxiously follow the search for a new head coach, and will anxiously await a decision, but I'm not interested in slicing and dicing the possibilities and scenarios. I'm tired, and ready to move on from this torturous and disappointing season.

I will say this in farewell to Callahan: he's a fighter to the bitter end. I think he's handling all of this with as much class as a person in his position can, as it is not an easy task to be a head football coach at Nebraska. Callahan never blamed his players or his staff for the downward spiral of the program, and rarely looked for an excuse. He coached right to the very end, which was evident in yesterday's game. With 30 seconds to go in a game that had been decided several minutes before, Callahan's head was buried in his playsheet in an effort to find one more score. He was successful, as QB Joe Ganz hit senior wide-receiver Maurice Purify for a touchdown. To most of the college football world, that last score meant nothing, and may have even been laughable. But to Callahan and his players, it was a tiny ray of light in what has been an abysmal season at dear ol' Nebraska U. It was a fight to the bitter end. God-speed, Coach Callahan, and I sincerely wish you luck in whatever the future holds for you.

And so begins the off-season, and the opportunity to watch, wait, and anticipate. The program will go in a different direction, no doubt. Which direction and under whose guidance remains to be seen, but I can already feel a sense of fresh air. New coach, new system, same expectations. Hang on folks, the new ride begins here and now.

GO BIG RED!

Turkey-Day Eve Grumblings, er, Gobblings

2007-11-21T23:17:00.000-06:00

Yesterday morning began sort of rough for me, following a long night in which Madilyn spent nearly two-and-a-half hours awake in the middle of the night. It's a long story as to why, and I won't go into the gory details. Suffice it to say when we finally convinced her to stay in bed and sleep, the lack-of-sleep damage to Mommy and Daddy had already been done. Korynne tried to be kind to us as she slept a bit later than normal, but it wasn't quite enough to overcome our needs. Needless to say, both Mandi and I woke up exhausted and not nearly ready to face the day with its new challenges and/or opportunities.

Mandi had to run several errands yesterday morning, so I thought I would seize the opportunity to spend some quality "Daddy" time with the kids. Well, that didn't work out so well since Madilyn was overly tired and cranky, Korynne is still fighting a bit of a runny nose and wasn't all that cheery, and Daddy didn't have the required amount of patience to deal with the entire situation. Kaedyn was home from school thanks to the impending holiday, but he had chosen to engage himself in a Lego project behind the closed door of his room. Smart kid, that Kaedyn, given the volatile situation outside of his room.

Instead of continuing to press the girls for some quality time, I took to working on several pie crusts I was preparing for the impending Thanksgiving Day feasts with both sides of our family. I figured maybe I could get a early sense of the holiday spirit if I spent some time doing a holiday-type activity. Maybe, just maybe, I my spirits would be lifted. Leaving the girls to fend for themselves, however, only forced them to bicker at each other and thereby created a not-so-joyous atmosphere. I had all but reached my wit's end when Mandi returned home. "Ah," I said to myself, "The reinforcements have arrived." Still, Mandi's arrival did not stop me from snapping when all three kids were standing at the back door watching the season's first snowfall and still bickering at each other. Daddy's fuse reached the end. In no uncertain terms, I told the kids they were driving me nuts and if they didn't leave my immediate area and find something with which to entertain themselves, I could not be held responsible for my actions. (And no, my verbiage was not nearly as eloquent as what I have just typed.)

Well, lunchtime came and went without incident and when we were finished eating, I thought maybe my mind and body would best be served by suiting up and taking the dogs for a run. As I prepared to do just that, Kaedyn asked if he could go along, and I readily agreed since I figured some fresh air would do him good as well. We bundled up to face the cold weather, strapped up the dogs, and the four of us headed out. It was a good run, and I felt 100% better afterwards.

After returning home, Kaedyn decided to hang out in the backyard and play around in the snow. It wasn't too long before I heard a thud on the window next to which I was sitting. Upon my investigation, I found Kaedyn's rosy-red cheeks and big smile as he pointed at the remnants of the snowball he'd just thrown. I realized he was calling me out. He had just declared war. It was on! I threw on a sweatshirt and gloves, stepped outside, and for twenty glorious minutes we pasted each other with snowballs and laughter. It was a great time, and snapped me out of my funk for the day.

After a quick shower before work, I came out into the kitchen to find Kaedyn in the midst of preparing himself a cup of hot cocoa. Folks, there's just nothing like a good snowball fight and an ensuing cup of hot cocoa to put a guy in the mood for the holiday season! Thanks to my eight-year-old and his ability to make me feel like a kid again, I was feeling much better by the time I headed out the door for work. I drove to work in silence, and just enjoyed the waning afternoon snowfall. As I got into downtown, it was fun to watch the city's public works employees putting the strands of holiday lights on the trees.

Despite the rough beginning, the day ended on a wonderful and warm note, and officially launched my spirit into holiday mode. Today is Thanksgiving, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you celebrate. My prayer is for each of you to take a few, silent moments thinking about all those little things which add to your holiday spirit. Count them as blessings, and may your Thanksgiving be one of joyous celebration.

Huskers 73, Wildcats 31

2007-11-15T14:06:00.000-06:00

Speechless. Only this time, I'm speechless in a very good way regarding Husker Football. And it's been a long time since I've felt this good. I feel so good, in fact, that I'm just sort of spilling my thoughts into this post. There is absolutely zero organization to it whatsoever, so if you can, bare with me.

One week after suffering THE most embarrassing loss in Nebraska Football history, the Huskers stepped up to the plate and delivered what has to be the most shocking win of at least this season, and probably the last several. Joe Ganz, the Huskers back-up QB until the last few minutes of the Texas game two weeks ago, was stunning. Over five-hundred yards passing and seven touchdowns? And against a decent Kansas State outfit?? Wow! That, ladies and gentlemen, is Husker Football at its finest. By the final gun, the Huskers racked up over seven-hundred yards of offense, scoring on eleven straight possessions. Although the Husker defense allowed a silly touchdown in the last few minutes (with the backups in, mind you), they even showed some signs of emotion in their play. The team that showed up Saturday was the team I expected to see from the beginning of the season. But never mind that now, for I'm still savoring every last second of last Saturday.

Of course, this entire scenario begs the question of who should have been the starting QB all year long. I don't know that Keller was the wrong choice, but I do think Ganz should have been given a shot at some playing time long before the Texas game. Some of those games when the Huskers were getting blown out, maybe. Again, never mind that now.

There is actually a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air in Husker Nation. Believe it or not, there's gonna be a little showdown in Boulder, Colorado on the day after Thanksgiving. The annual battle between the Huskers and Buffaloes won't have any conference title implications. It won't be a fight to finish in the national rankings. And, it certainly won't mean much to the rest of the college football world. But here in prideful Husker Nation, it means a whole lot. The Huskers are 5-6, as are the Buffaloes. Both outfits need another win to become bowl eligible. The winner most-likely gets an invitation to post-season play, and the loser stays home for the holidays. Can ya feel the excitement? Can ya taste the anticipation? Okay, maybe not. But in a time when the Husker faithful have to scrounge for a little morsel of excitement, this game means everything. Look out, Boulder, here comes the BIG RED!

More on this game next week. And look for an update on the Lady Huskers in the next few days, as well as some posts I've been diligently working on and ones which I promised several weeks ago. In the meantime, and as always....

GO BIG RED!!

Jayhawks 76, Huskers 39

2007-11-07T22:33:00.000-06:00

Would you look at that? It's already Wednesday, and I haven't said a word about the Huskers since posting a prediction last Thursday. That's because I haven't been able to use my hands in order to write anything. You see, I just finished gathering my jaw off the ground after whatever the hell that was in Lawrence, Kansas last Saturday. To be sure, my fingers are still moving at a snail's pace as I type this, because frankly, I'm quite speechless. I continue to read articles and hear comments about how the mighty Husker ship is sinking, and sinking fast. Dare I declare, after Saturday's debacle, this ship has done sunk. It has hit rock bottom and all of its treasure of quality football is buried somewhere deep within its belly.

At least part of my prediction was true; first-time starter Joe Ganz came out firing on all cylinders, and the offense played their hearts out for him. Ganz was on fire as he threw for over 400 yards, and sliced and diced the coveted Jayhawk defense. The Huskers offense put up 39 points in the game, and 39 points will typically win you a football game. Not on this day, however. Kansas ran through the Husker's defense like they were some Pop-Warner unit in their first big game. It was ugly, and it could have easily been worse. Kansas coach Mark Mangino was merciful near the end, as he could have hung a hundred on a Big Red defense that was powerless to stop him and is offensive unit. (Jeff, if you're reading this, thanks for your retort to my prediction last week. You were right - the Jayhawks came to play despite Ganz's success. I wouldn't have been surprised to see Kansas win, but I'll admit my shock at what actually transpired.)

Rumors of a coaching change in one form or another have been far and wide in Husker Nation over the course of the last few days. So far, nothing has been said other than Bill Callahan's resolve to stay put. Interim Athletic Director Tom Osborne has also stayed firm to his original word of waiting until the end of the season to evaluate the coaching staff. My guess is Callahan won't be around much longer after the final gun sounds in Colorado on the day after Thanksgiving. He just isn't the right fit for this program, though I give him credit for trying. Honestly, I feel sorry for him. Nebraska is not a warm environment for a coach who posts the kinds of records most fans would just as soon forget. Most losses, most points allowed, greatest margin of victory (for the opposition), etc.

As for this Saturday, well, it's the final home game of the season and thus, "Senior Day." As a fan, I still have hope that these Huskers can find a way to win despite the adversity. It appears Callahan has lost this team, so if they won't play for him, I can only hope they will play for themselves and for the 29 seniors who will bid the program farewell. It's been rough for them, and certainly not the memorable experience they probably expected as freshmen. Kansas State will be here on Saturday, and you can bet they'll be licking their chops to be the next team to pound the Huskers. Despite everything, the Huskers still have something to play for, believe it or not. They still need two wins to become bowl-eligible, and they have exactly two more chances to accomplish that task. They might just find enough motivation this week to rise to the occasion. Huskers 38, Wildcats 31.

I gotta believe.

GO BIG RED!!

Longhorns 28, Huskers 25

2007-11-01T14:46:00.001-06:00

This last week in Husker Nation has been yet another adventurous one, and it all began in Austin, Texas last Saturday. With a sure-fire pasting in order, Nebraska gave its faithful fans a glimmer of hope that all is not completely gone in this season of utter disappointment. For three glorious and wonderful quarters, the Huskers played inspired, sound, and winning football. The running game was working, the passing game was working, and Nebraska took a two-touchdown lead into what turned out to be a heart-breaking fourth quarter. Then it all went down the drain in a heart-breaking loss. Starting quarterback Sam Keller was knocked out for the season. Texas running back Jamaal Charles smoked the Blackshirts for 216 yards and three touchdowns (yes, in just the final fifteen minutes). The Longhorns prevailed in a 28-25 win over the Huskers. But that's a far cry from the three-touchdown win that most of the college football world expected out of Texas.

And so we move on to this Saturday, and a date with the Jayhawks of Kansas. There was a time not so long ago when the Huskers' annual meeting with the boys from Lawrence was a gimme. A sure "w" on the schedule, and a game that for all intents and purposes, the Huskers could look past. My, how times have changed. The 2007 Kansas Jayhawks are flying high at 8-0 and ranked about ninth in the country, and have no intentions of letting the struggling Huskers come into Lawrence and ruin their perfect season. Their defense has been stellar, and their offense not so bad, either. They are having the season of their lives.

Well, good for them. I'm really happy for them, and excited for their success. Head coach Mark Mangino has turned that program around, and has a good thing going. But it's time for a Big Red spoiler. Husker backup QB Joey Ganz is set to take the helm on Saturday, and I am one fan who thinks Ganz is better then Keller ever was. Ganz has the ability to pass, but he also has the ever-important ability to scramble, which is something Keller could not boast. I am excited for this Saturday, more excited for the Big Red to take the field than I have been in several weeks. I think the combination of confidence coming off of a pretty good performance in Texas, and a new quarterback whose team has rallied around him, will provide just the spark to get these Huskers going for the last few weeks. I smell an upset in the making, folks. Maybe I'm just starving for a win, but I think the Huskers get it done this week. Huskers 34, Jayhawks 25.

GO BIG RED!!!

Aggies 36, Huskers 14

2007-10-25T18:08:00.000-06:00

Did y'all think I forgot about the Huskers, or wrote them off as so many others have already done? I will admit, my faith in a positive close to what's left of the football season is all but gone, but that's certainly not why there was no prediction post last week, or post-game comments at the beginning of this week. I'll get to all of that in a minute.

First, just a couple of comments on the Lady Huskers. Since I last talked about the volleyball team after a sweep of Iowa State, the Huskers have faced Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Hawaii, all of whom they swept three games to none. The Huskers had an amazing two-month run in which not a single game was lost. Fast forward to last night, and the highly-anticipated matchup with the fifth-ranked Longhorns of Texas University. This game had all the hype as #1 Nebraska took their show on the road to a sold-out arena, and a very hostile environment in Austin.

I will admit that I don't know a whole bunch about the technical game of volleyball, so the few times I've been afforded the opportunity to watch the Huskers this season, I've merely watched them score more points than their opponent. I really have no idea how high the level of play has been, because I don't understand the intricacies of the game itself. That said, even I could sense how tight the Huskers played last night. They were punched, and they didn't quite seem to know how to punch back. The Longhorns came to play last night, and right away put the Huskers in a position they have not been in a long time. In fact, I would go so far as to say the Huskers were not ever really that close. Texas dominated, the crowd was very much a factor, and Nebraska left Austin with a strong dose of their own medicine having been swept three games to none. They come home to face Missouri on Saturday, and we can only hope they will come out firing on all cylinders. Given Coach Cook's track record in similar situations, my guess is he'll have his squad ready to play. In fact, I almost feel sorry for Missouri, as they may be the target of the Huskers' frustrations.

On to football, "and the hits just keep on comin'...."

As I mentioned, I did not have a chance to post my usual Friday night prediction last week prior to the Huskers' game against Texas A&M. Had I the opportunity, however, I wold have guessed that Nebraska would pull out a win. I would have told you that of the five teams remaining on the Huskers' schedule, A&M would be the weakest, and the Huskers could statistically go toe-to-toe with them. I would have told you that all of the goings-on in the NU athletic department last week would be turned into motivation for the Huskers to come out on Saturday and play for pride in representing their tradition-rich program.

I would have been wrong. I was wrong. At least to an extent.

Saturday's Big Red performance solidified for me a glaring issue with the current Husker football program. Coach Callahan is bad. Really bad. I have supported him and his attempts to get this thing turned around, but the last few weeks have made it increasingly difficult to understand his coaching decisions. His squad is loaded with big-time talent, yet the play-calling is confusing, at best, as Callahan seems less and less interested in exploiting the strengths of this team. I try not to be overly-critical, and I probably fail, but it is frustrating when the guys who are not getting it done on the field are consistently given the starting nod. Yet when the backups come in, they continue to show flashes of brilliance far and above those who are starting. Or when a defensive scheme is working wonders against an opponent, said scheme is suddenly and inexplicably abandoned for one that doesn't work. I have to think this is more a coaching fault than player fault.

Anyway, looking ahead, Nebraska has four games to go; at Texas, at Kansas, vs. Kansas State, and at Colorado. Three of the four games are on the road, and all of them against top-25 ranked opponents. I've seen no reason over the course of the last month to believe that Nebraska stands a chance to win a single game from here on out. That said, I can only hope the Huskers can put behind them what has transpired thus far, and just play football. There's no reason to play tight, or cautiously, as there is nothing left for which to play except pride. And pride can be a dangerous weapon. Might as well let it all hang out, Big Red, and hope for an upset or two. Maybe in the process, they can win back some of those big-time recruits who have wavered from their oral commitments over the last couple of weeks.

As far as this Saturday, I'm going to give you my prediction a bit early. The Longhorns have a bunch yet to play for after dropping a game to Kansas State a few weeks ago. They are slowly climbing back into the BCS picture, and stubbing another toe against Nebraska would be embarrassing. The Big Red will collide with the Burnt Orange in Austin on Saturday, but it won't be much of a collision. Texas rolls; Longhorns 45, Huskers 10.

Times are tough in Husker Nation right now. But these are the times in which we grow. These are the times in which we learn. These are the times that help make winning that much sweeter. And these are the times that help the Big Red Faithful appreciate the values on which our beloved program was built. It might be awhile, but the Huskers will be back. Mark my words, the Huskers will be back.

GO BIG RED!!!

Have I Lost My Mind?

2007-10-18T08:54:00.000-06:00

It's been quite some time since I posted anything about my continuing efforts in the healthy living arena. I haven't really lost a bunch more since I finally hit the 100-pound mark, though the weight continues to trickle off a little at a time. I'm not so much obsessed with the scale as I once was, opting for just a weekly weight check as opposed to the daily infatuations to which I had become accustomed. I'm not as concerned about losing the weight as long as I continue to eat properly and exercise daily. I'm confident it will continue to come drop off.

You may remember my discussion a few weeks ago about Cesar Millan and his book, Cesar's Way, and my goal of whipping our female pooch, Xena, into shape. That process has gone very well, as we continue to walk/run each night after I get home from work. Xena, as of today, has lost half a pound. That may not seem like much, but to a 12-pound ankle-biter, that's a bunch! She's looking great and obviously feeling much better, as she has a little bit more pep in her step.

So how is all of this related? Well, I have found myself pushing harder and harder each night when the dogs and I go out for our exercise, and am getting closer to being able to run the entire distance, which is about three miles. I'm not setting any land-speed records, but being able to run a long distance is something I never dreamed would happen. I'm just not much of a runner, and never have been really interested in it. Until now. I have found that I thoroughly enjoy running, for the most part, and have decided it would be quite a thrill to be able to someday run a marathon. Yes, I said it - RUN A MARATHON!

Now, I realize I have a very long way to go before I'm in any shape to accomplish such a feat, but I've decided to make a run at it, no pun intended. I checked out the Lincoln Marathon's website this morning, and I think it possible to shoot for running the May, 2009 race. I'm going to consult with a few friends who are experienced runners, and begin seriously training with that date in mind! As I said, I have a long way to go, but what an accomplishment when I get there. Wish me luck, and for those of you who are reading this and have run marathons in the past, or are regular runners and can offer tips and advice, I welcome any suggestions with open arms.

And who knows? Maybe Xena will join me in 2009. Do they allow dogs to enter marathons?

Restore the Order

2007-10-17T10:21:00.000-06:00

The last couple of days have been quite the whirlwind in Husker Nation. If you don't follow Husker athletics (which is beyond my capacity for rational thought, people), then you may not be aware that Nebraska Athletic Director Steve Pederson was fired on Monday, and Tom Osborne was hired yesterday as the new AD. This latest turn of events has been all the talk in every small-town barber shop, market, and Mom and Pop cafe across the plains of Nebraska. Dare I say, this is exactly what needed to happen for the University.

When he was originally hired, Pederson seemed like the perfect choice to lead the athletic department at Nebraska. He is from North Platte, graduated from the University, was on the athletic department staff, and had deep roots and knowledge of Nebraska tradition and philosophy. All of that came crashing down when he opted to fire head football coach Frank Solich after a 9-3 season. How he handled the firing, and the subsequent hiring of Bill Callahan, did not settle well with the Husker faithful. His management style, slyness, and refusal to keep fans and athletic department staff apprised of the goings-on from his office, ultimately led to his dismissal. He has done a few things right, but far more wrong.

Enter Tom Osborne. A huge sense of relief is settling over Husker Nation now, as T.O. will bring with him the knowledge and understanding of what makes Nebraska unique. Hard work, dedication, honesty and integrity. All the things which the University of Nebraska was built on, and all of the traits which seem to have been lost in the name of big-time coaches, flashy resumes, and eight-pound playbooks.

Meanwhile, there's still nearly a half-season of football to be played. It will be interesting to see how the players and coaches respond after all the distractions this week. Especially since Callahan and Company have to figure they will be out of a job by the end of the season. Some would argue if Callahan can win out, he'll keep his job. That's a tall order given the level of play he's gotten from his club the last few weeks, and given the brutal schedule he'll face the rest of the way. It all remains to be seen, and the drama which will unfold over the next six weeks will for sure keep Husker Nation captivated.

Welcome back, Dr. Tom.

Restore the Order.

GO BIG RED!!

Cowboys 45, Huskers 14

2007-10-15T09:07:00.000-06:00

The past day-and-a-half have been pretty miserable as I've tried to compose myself enough to figure out what to say this morning after the ugliness that was Husker football on Saturday. If you don't already know, Oklahoma State came into Memorial Stadium and made Nebraska look silly as they sliced and diced their way to a 38-0 half-time lead, and went on to blow the Huskers out of their own house. To say it was ugly, actually, is to make it better than it really was. It was beyond anything that I've ever witnessed in all my years has a Husker fan. It was indescribable. What the loss did was force me to ask some tough questions about the state of Nebraska football. Could it be that life amongst the nation's college football elite is a thing of the past for the Huskers? The term parity has been thrown around quite a bit lately in these parts. Parity: functional equality. Any given team can beat any given team on any given day in any given situation on any given grounds. Parity. There is certainly a good argument for parity in college football, and particularly Nebraska football. As my good friend and Kansas native Jeff Clinger pointed out the other day, who would have thought the Kansas Jayhawks would be 6-0 at this point in the season, and the mighty Huskers a struggling 4-3?

But I digress, and you know what? I'm going to step away from all of those questions and thoughts and grumblings and frustrations for a moment. There are so many things wrong with the Husker football program right now, and I'm tired of trying to pick it all apart and figure it all out. Instead, I'm going to travel a different direction with this topic. I was on my way home from dropping my son off at school this rainy morning, and as usual, had the radio tuned to ESPN Radio. Colin Cowherd had just begun his morning show, and was discussing the New England Patriots' win over the Dallas Cowboys yesterday. He marveled at how fantastic Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and the New England offense is, and how we will be praising this team as one of football's greatest in years to come. He also addressed the critics who say New England is overrated, and who blame the media for over-hyping the Patriots.

During his spin on the critics, Cowherd went into our culture's tendency and desire to try and find something negative in everything good. We pick apart anything and everything, and fail to appreciate the greatness in something or someone. Cowherd cited television as one of the areas we are so critical of, instead of realizing all of the fantastic programming available. 'If you can't find something worth watching out of over six-hundred channels, that's a "you" problem, not a t.v. problem,' he said. Cowherd really got my attention when he started in on religion as one of the areas we pick apart. Instead of worrying about what's right and what's not right, can't we just appreciate the smiles on people's faces and how good a preacher makes someone feel during and after a worship service? He suggested we appreciate things for what they are, rather than for what they are not.

Back to football - Cowherd suggested instead of finding things wrong with the Patriots, that we simply marvel at the offensive masterpiece they have created. Of course, there is no masterpiece right now at Nebraska, and not much at which to marvel. Still, there are some things we can appreciate. Freshman running-back sensation Quentin Castille is making some pretty big plays, and was a blast to watch on Saturday. Quarterback Sam Keller, though he's stumbled a few times lately, is still fun to watch when he zings a pass. The big offensive line is beginning to gel and holds a pretty bright future once they perfect their technique.

Don't get me wrong. I would love to see the Huskers winning, and see the program going in a different direction. As I mentioned, there are many, many things wrong with life in Husker Nation right now. With just five games left, though, I think it's time I start looking at what is bright and promising. Texas A&M comes to Lincoln next week, which is another chance to perfect our running game and work on the defensive techniques. Maybe, just maybe, the Huskers can get a win.

GO BIG RED!!

Game #7

2007-10-12T22:34:00.001-06:00

Well, another Friday night has arrived and thus, another "Husker Eve." We are halfway through the season, and life in Husker Nation is not has rosy as most fans, including myself, had hoped. The thought of 6-0 at this point in the season would have been more than anyone really expected. 5-1 and in control of the Big XII North would have been at least somewhat more reasonable. But, alas! Here we sit at a fragile 4-2, and the rest of the season in jeopardy. As I mentioned last week, the Huskers are going to have to fight for their lives every week from here on out, and I'll be surprised if they are able to improve on last year's North division-winning achievement. A trip back to the conference title game seems unlikely, at this point.

The Oklahoma State Cowboys come into Lincoln tomorrow as Nebraska celebrates its 2007 homecoming. OSU is playing very well these days, and will look to beat the Huskers in Lincoln for the first time in about a gazillion years. I don't remember exactly what the figure is, but I know I wasn't alive the last time the Cowboys beat the 'Skers in Lincoln. Unfortunately, I don't think the Cowboys really care about that figure. They have every reason to believe they can and will beat us tomorrow, and on paper, they will.

Nebraska's coaches made some changes this week, however, and I think it was the right thing to do. A few starters were relegated to back-up roles, while others were moved to different positions. The general feeling, based on player comments this past week, was one of confusion. It seems many of the players, on defense especially, have been somewhat confused and/or hesitant as to their assignments once the ball is snapped. I get the feeling that the coaches have made some moves this week in an effort to send a message. If you expect to wear a Blackshirt and play defense at the University of Nebraska, you had better know what you are doing, you had better display confidence, and you had better pound the hell of anyone who gets in your way. This seems to be the message, and I'm hoping it will work.

'Tis sad we are halfway through the season, though, and such changes are still taking place. It's not a good sign, and does not provide much confidence that Callahan and company will right this ship. The first game of the rest of the season is tomorrow, and Nebraska had better take it very seriously. It may not be pretty. In fact, it may just be downright ugly, but I think Nebraska will get it done tomorrow. The certainly won't throttle the Cowboys by any stretch, and I don't think they will throttle anyone the rest of the way. But for now, a win is a win. Huskers 34, Cowboys 31.

The Lady Huskers continue to roll, as they traveled to Boulder, Colorado last Saturday and beat the Buffaloes three games to none. Then on Wednesday, the Cyclones of Iowa State came into the Coliseum, but left without winning a game. Undefeated, and unmatched!

GO BIG RED!!!

Tigers 41, Huskers 6

2007-10-08T07:42:00.000-06:00

Agonizing is the only word I can find to describe Saturday's Husker debacle in Columbia, Missouri. I've been following Nebraska football for many years now, and have witnessed my share of heartbreaking losses and unexpected upsets. But I have never experienced the kind of emotion I felt after Saturday's game. It wasn't just a stinging loss, or a heartbreaking one. Even terming it an ugly loss doesn't quite do it. This one cut right to the very soul of Husker Nation. It hurt, and it hurt bad. The mediocrity, which athletic director Steve Pederson promised to avoid in hiring Bill Callahan and company to coach the football program, has emerged. And it does not feel good in the least. Yes, Nebraska Football has officially become mediocre, and even that would be a kind term.

I have been told to quit living in the past, as the Huskers aren't what they were in the '90's and they never again will be that good. The term parody gets thrown around quite a bit these days in Husker Nation. I know losing is part of sports, part of the game, part of what makes the world go 'round. I can accept this, and I have done so. What I can't accept, especially when it comes to the Huskers, are the kinds of losses experienced on Saturday night. It was a complete and thorough breakdown, from the coaches and the gameplan to the players and the execution. At no time was Nebraska even in the game, much less making it competitive. I can handle getting beat by a better team - and Missouri was definitely the better team - but to be embarrassed? That's a tough pill to swallow. To slip into mediocrity and beyond? Ouch.

The Tiger defense was circling the drain coming into Saturday night's game, as they ranked near the bottom most categories. Yet Nebraska never made it into the end zone in making Missouri's defense look like a pretty good unit. Did I mention embarrassing? And to think I had a good feeling coming into this highly-anticipated season. As I peruse the rest of the schedule, it would not surprise me if Nebraska is unable to win again, assuming we continue to play as we did Saturday. I mentioned in my prediction post last week that Saturday's game would give me a clue as to how the rest of the season might play out, and I certainly hoped for some reason to be excited. Instead, I'm scared to death. Never-the-less......

GO BIG RED!!!

2007-10-08T07:40:00.001-06:00

Game #6

2007-10-06T09:23:00.000-06:00

It's gameday again, and the Huskers take their show on the road this week to Columbia, Missouri, to battle the Tigers of the University of Missouri. This highly-anticipated matchup has all the makings of a huge game, with much at stake, including the driver's seat to the Big XII North division title. The Tigers were pre-season picked to win the Big XII North, but the Huskers have different ideas as they look to post their biggest victory yet this season.

It is my belief that this game will speak volumes as to just how far the Huskers have come under the tutelage of Bill Callahan, and will give an idea as to what we can expect for the rest of the season. It's going to be an extremely difficult game, as the high-flying Missouri offense will try to score early and often in taking advantage of an unproven Blackshirt defense. The environment is sure to be hostile-at-best, as the Tiger faithful will be loud and obnoxious come the 8:15 p.m. kickoff. The Huskers have the talent, I believe, to be successful against these odds, but it's going to take a perfect game-plan and great execution on both sides of the ball. Nebraska will need to put it all together this week and play their best game of the season. On the road at a rowdy Faurot Field with all the odds against them will make the task of winning a tough one.

But it can be done. The Huskers will come to play football today. Nasty, dirty, smash-mouth football. Missouri expects to win this game today based on the comments from some of their players and even their head coach. Pride is on the line, and Nebraska still has lots of it. They will show today that playing football at the University of Nebraska is no joke. Nebraska travels to Missouri today, and hands the Tigers an upset in their own house. Huskers 38, Tigers 32.

GO BIG RED!!!

Hang in there....

2007-10-04T12:58:00.000-06:00

Greetings dear readers. For those of you who are not into sports and could care less about the Huskers, the last few weeks have probably made you wonder if I will ever post anything worth reading before the end of the football and/or volleyball season. I very much recognize that I have not talked about much since my beloved Huskers began playing ball this year, and I do have a reason.

A few weeks ago, a letter to the editor was printed in the Lincoln paper which was authored by the head pastor at St. Paul United Methodist Church, and endorsed by some 21 other area pastors. The topic of the letter was homosexuality, and how Christians should or should not respond. As to be expected, the letter sparked a plethora of reponses, and the discussion has been ongoing ever since. I have begun working on a series of posts in regards to this letter and its subsequent responses, but I have chosen not to publish the posts until they are completed. I am close to being done, and will begin my discussion and perspective within the next several days. As always, I appreciate your patience and understanding!

That said, I had the pleasure of watching the Lady Huskers last night for the first time this season, as the local University channel broadcasted their match. Top-ranked Nebraska hosted #17 Kansas State at the Coliseum, and it was yet another sweep for the Huskers. The first two games were not close, but the Wildcats hung in there during the third game and played rather well. Still, Nebraska won and remains unbeaten and unchallenged.

GO BIG RED!!!!

Huskers 35, Cyclones 17

2007-09-30T10:32:00.001-06:00

Aaaaahhhhh....order hath been restored to Husker Nation, at least temporarily. Yesterday's battle against the Cyclones was one big, collective sigh of relief amongst the Sea of Red. The Blackshirts came to play yesterday and showed a tremendous amount of prowess on the field as they executed good fundamental football. It was a breakthrough performance, and a much-needed one. QB Sam Keller and the offense took awhile to get going, but shined as usual enroute to a 35-point showing. Even down by 10 points in the early goings, Keller remained poised, cool, and sharp in leading the 'Skers.

It was huge momentum-builder as the Huskers now prepare to face Missouri in Columbia next Saturday. The Tigers, you may remember from my earlier postings, were preseason picked to win the Big XII North division. They have shown why in the last few weeks, as their offense has exploded. It's going to be a tough game in an even tougher environment, as the Tiger faithful are sure to make their presence felt while Keller and company are on the field. I picked the Huskers to beat the Tigers before the season began, but during the last couple of weeks I have questioned that pick. Yesterday's performance at Memorial Stadium helped to ease my fears to a point, though I'm still not as confident as I was before the season began. We shall see, and I'll give you my usual prediction on Friday.

As I mentioned yesterday, the Lady Huskers hosted the Baylor Bears at the Coliseum last night, and once again showed why they are the best team in volleyball. No competition for Nebraska as they swept Baylor three games to none. Their next victim is Kansas State on Wednesday, again at the Coliseum.

GO BIG RED!!!

Game #5

2007-09-29T08:34:00.000-06:00

Well, it's been a long week here in Husker Nation as every fan from every corner of the state has tried to understand just what is taking place within the confines of the NU practice facilities. Defensive coordinator Kevin Cosgrove has been roasted time and again, and is on the hot seat as he tries to lead his coveted Blackshirt Defense into conference play today. Will they forge and identity and take their game up a notch? Have they figured out just what has gone so terribly wrong over the past few weeks? Can they get back to the level of play which is so highly expected of them from those who treasure Nebraska football? Can they overcome the millions of boos heard from the Sea of Red after last week's performance? These questions, and a whole bunch more, seek answers as the Cyclones of Iowa State come calling today.

What has struck me over the past week in reading all of the reports, articles, blogs, and comments from both players and fans is the lack of an emerging leader on defense. Make no mistake, the Huskers have plenty of talent on defense. Pure, raw, big-time talent. But all the talent in the world makes no difference if no one can take the reigns and lead said talent. It seems to me the defense of the Huskers has no one to really step up and get in the players faces to motivate them. A mistake here or a miscue there is simply shrugged off as and "oh well, we'll get it next time." Someone has to emerge and put an end to "oh well." Linebacker Cory Mckeon, who was a star on last year's defense, made comments this week that the defense gets hit in the mouth and takes a step back. Wow. That's not Nebraska Blackshirt defense, folks. The Blackshirts get hit in the mouth, get up, and hit back harder. Assuming, of course, there is a leader on the field.

So, my hope for this week is that someone on the defensive side of the ball steps up today. Someone emerges as the leader. Someone gets hit in the mouth, gets up, and hits back so hard that all of Husker Nation smiles. Today, I believe, will be a turning point in the season as Nebraska begins conference play. There is no reason why Iowa State should even be in the game come half time today. If that's the case, then Nebraska has taken to heart what has happened the past few weeks and they have learned from it. If, however, they continue to be lethargic and desolate, then it becomes clear that this team has issues they are unable to overcome.

I predict we see a better team than in the last few weeks, though still not up to their potential. The defense allows a couple of touchdowns and a couple of field goals as the Cyclones score 20. Sam Keller and the offense continue to shine enroute to a 35-point effort. Huskers 35, Cyclones 20.

The Lady Huskers continued their steamrolling on Wednesday night, blasting Kansas 3-0. They prepare to host the Baylor Bears tonight at the Coliseum.

GO BIG RED!!!!

Huskers 41, Cardinals 40

2007-09-22T15:06:00.000-06:00

Before I get into my discussion about today's football game, allow me to apologize to those of you who have been used to checking in on my normal Friday-night prediction. Mandi is out-of-town until Sunday, and I've had my hands full managing the kids' schedules and keeping the house in order. By the time we got home from a trip to Grammy's last night, and everyone tucked into bed, Daddy was ready to collapse! Had I the energy to post a prediction, I would have figured the Blackshirt defense to rebound from last week's issues and help the Huskers to a thrashing of Ball State. Huskers 52, Cardinals 13. Which brings us to today.

Kaedyn and I were blessed to have the opportunity to attend todays' game thanks to my sister-in-law and her soon-to-be-hubby, who scored a few tickets through his place of work. It was Kaedyn's second time inside the walls of the old stadium for a game, and he had the time of his life! I was a proud Dad to have my son with me, and have the opportunity to share with him some of the fundamentals of football, as well as some of the traditions and rituals of Nebraska football. It was a great time, and I'm looking forward to the next opportunity, whenever that might come.

If you would have told me before game time this morning that the Ball State Cardinals would come into Husker Nation and hang over 600 yards of offense on the Blackshirt defense, I would have laughed in your face. If you would have told me that the Cardinals would put 40 points against the Huskers, I would have laughed even harder. If you would have told me that the Cardinals would still be in the game at halftime, I would have laughed yet again. If you would have told me that it would take a last-second missed field goal at the end of the game to secure a Husker victory, I would have personally signed your official document permanently banning you from ever stepping foot inside Husker nation again for blasphemy.

Let me tell you, there was nothing funny about what happened today. I had every feeling in the world that today's game would resemble a fired-up defensive unit after getting stomped last week. Surely, this group had something to prove, and who better to take their frustrations out on than a mediocre-at-best Ball State football team? Hmph. It was all Nebraska could do to avoid the upset, and truth be told, it should have been an upset. Three separate dropped balls for would-be touchdowns by Cardinal receivers helped Nebraska to a win. And that's exactly what today's game was; a win. Not a good win, not a hard-fought win, but just a win. What it needed to be was a blowout win. A win to prove that last week's defensive effort was just nerves and/or a poor game plan, and that Husker Nation has reason to believe Nebraska will do well as it begins conference play next Saturday. A win to prove the Huskers have taken a step forward from last year, and will seriously contend for the Big XII title.

The Huskers are in real trouble. The offense has done its part and looks good, but the defense is a wreck right now. We can't just outscore everybody, so if the Blackshirts can't get things turned around, we are in for a very long season. Maybe the Huskers haven't made the progress I had thought during the off-season. What baffles me the most out of all of this is that the defense has the talent. Granted, the line is fairly new and inexperienced, but the linebackers are all big-time talent, as well as the safeties. At any rate, Iowa State comes to Lincoln next week, and all I will say for now is this: it's gonna be interesting.

On a lighter note - the Lady Huskers continued their dominance by sweeping the Aggies of Texas A&M this evening at the coliseum. At least some of the Huskers have their stuff together!

GO BIG RED!!

All Hail Cesar!

2007-09-20T21:24:00.000-06:00

All the rage in the doggy world these days seems to be that of Cesar Millan, aka, the Dog Whisperer. My Mother-In-Law began raving about him several months ago, and convinced my wife to tune into his show, which of course peaked my curiosity. Unfortunately, Cesar's show normally airs when I'm at work, so I don't have much of a chance to really watch it. However, a co-worker offered to let me borrow her copy of Cesar's book, and while it took me awhile to finally set to reading it, I am very glad I have taken the time to do so.

Cesar begins his book, Cesar's Way, by discussing his Spanish roots and how he came to live in the United States. It was a very humbling experience for him, which he believes has led to his success. I don't want to give too much of his bibliography away, so I'll move on to why I'm bringing all of this to you.

Cesar's compelling argument through the entire book revolves around our culture's tendency to humanize our dogs. We cast our emotions and feelings into our dogs, he argues, and we are completely oblivious to their natural instincts and needs as a dog, and as a pack animal. Our biggest failure in meeting our dogs' needs lies in the lack of exercise we offer them. Cesar argues over and over that in order to have a happy dog, he/she has to have the chance to exercise. Letting the dog out into the back yard for a few minutes to do his/her business doesn't count. Dogs need, at the absolute least, a total of an hour of walking everyday. And Cesar would say more, if the owner is able.

As I began to reach the end of Cesar's book last night, I made a conscious decision to work very hard at providing my dogs with the opportunity to exist as nature intended. I have grown increasingly frustrated and irritated with our dogs' behavioral issues, which I have now learned are probably due to the lack of regular exercise. Armed with the knowledge to solve these issues, I put their leashes on and took the dogs for a thirty to forty minute walk today. It was, to say the least, an enlightening experience.

Our male chihuahua, Zorro, had the time of his life as he soaked in the sunshine and fresh air, and thoroughly enjoyed the walk. Zorro is a very active dog, and loves to chase the kids around the house or backyard. He's not one to sit for long periods of time, so while the walk was enough to tire him out, he wasn't overly spent. Our female chihuahua, Xena, was absolutely smoked by the end of the trek. We were just about seven or eight blocks from home, and she was literally allowing me to drag her on her belly because she could go no more. I thought she had stopped to sniff or do a little doggy business, but she was actually laying down. She did this act about a half-a-dozen times as we neared the end, and was even lying down on her side. As long as I gave her a minute or so to rest, she could make it another block. I was actually afraid she was going to have a heart attack. I had never seen such a thing, but it really drove home the realization of how out-of-shape she is, and how important it is to get her (and Zorro) out of the house and on good long walks.

Our vet has been telling us for quite some time that Xena was overweight, and we have been very careful not to allow her table scraps, and to give her smaller portions of food. Those efforts have helped some, but not nearly enough. Xena was a wreck when we got home, and literally plopped on her belly with her hind legs sticking straight out behind her, and her front legs cradling her water dish. As she caught her breath, she would take a few drinks of water, then go back to panting like she was going to pass out. As I said, the entire experience was a real eye-opener.

So, I urge all dog-owners to seriously consider reading Cesar's book. It's a quick, easy read, and I promise your dog will thank you for it. Doh! There I go, humanizing dogs again. Okay, so you're dog won't actually care so much because he/she probably doesn't know any better, but he/she will most definitely be a happier, much more fulfilled doggy if you apply the principles in Cesar's book.

Here's a picture of Xena hoarding the water dish after our walk this morning. Again, I had nothing to do with positioning her - this is exactly what she did when she walked, er, stumbled in the door this morning.

Trojans 49, Huskers 31

2007-09-17T22:16:00.000-06:00

The billboard along I-180 into downtown Lincoln shows off the mighty biceps of a Husker football player, his arms crossed in an imposing position that would scare off even the fiercest of would-be competitors. Next to this daunting figure is the word 'strength.' As I watched the billboard go by on my way into work today, I found myself scoffing and thinking to myself, "What strength?" To say I am sorely disappointed after Saturday's game would be an understatement. Heartbroken might be a better descriptor. Or maybe devastated. How about all of thee above?

I'm not even sure where to begin to break down the Huskers issues, but I'm going to start with their rushing attack, or lack there of. I have gone from being not sold on running back Marlon Lucky, to flat done with him. Honestly, I don't think this guy is very good, and I fail to understand what the coaches see in him. (Maybe that's why I'm, at best, a "Monday Morning Quarterback.") Lucky runs with no heart, no finesse, no strength. I've watched him trip up on his own feet way too many times, and it doesn't take much to put the guy on the ground. I know he didn't have much to work with Saturday in terms of holes to run through, but the guy seems to have zero vision, and I just get the feeling he's not real interested in finding or creating opportunities for himself. That, or he's just plain not that good.

Now, I can't decide what was more embarrassing - our lethargic rushing attack, or our absolute inability to stop USC's rushing attack. They made us look absolutely pathetic, and the worst part about it is their backs aren't anything special. They didn't have to spin, juke, or break many tackles because the holes they had to run through were gaping abysses. All they did was take the handoff and run, gaining an average of 12 yards per carry. The defensive line got beat all game long, and where were the linebackers? Oh, that's right, they were continually caught biting on play fakes and misdirections, such that they were never a factor. And what about adjustments? It's one thing to perform that way in the first quarter or so, but to do it all game long? Defensive coordinator Kevin Cosgrove had no answer, apparently. The coveted Blackshirt defense certainly had no strength on this fateful night.

The lone beacon of light in this game was quarterback Sam Keller. I felt he played very well, especially executing the two-minute offense in the fourth quarter. Callahan had a very well designed game plan, and Keller was poised and gave his team a chance offensively. He zipped short passes and slant routes here and there, and USC seemed unable to stop him. He did throw a couple of picks, but one was thanks to a batted ball and I have a hard time blaming that on him. Keller stepped it up a notch from the first couple of games, and proved why he was so highly touted in the preseason. To hang 31 points on the best defense in the nation is something to talk about. Keller is the strength of this team, he's a great leader, and I'm confident he'll get the job done on most occasions.

There's a big part of me that would like to make the argument that the Husker's fate shifted after they kicked a field goal to take a 10-7 lead. On the ensuing kickoff, a jolting hit on the USC return man jarred the ball loose, seemingly giving the Huskers even more of the momentum. As strange luck would have it, though, another USC player scooped up the fumble and scrambled 30 or so yards, turning what seemed to be a sure Husker advantage into a huge USC return. What's more, the original return man laid on the field for nearly 10 minutes with a throat injury. Not knowing specifically what the injury was, the attending medics took every precaution by immobilizing him and taking him off on a stretcher. The long wait zapped every bit of momentum the Huskers had going, and allowed USC to take a breather and talk about things for a good long while. But folks, strong teams rebound from such events. Strong teams harness the original momentum and keep it going. Strong teams laugh at such a travesty, get back in the game, and keep plugging away. The Huskers, on this night, were not strong.

The Huskers had the opportunity to show off their progress in returning the program to elite status. Instead, they were embarrassed on a national stage. It's kind of ironic that USC did the exact same thing the Huskers used to do when they were winning championships in the mid-90's. They lined up and pounded the football down the throats of the opposing defense, and imposed their will, and strength, all night long. There was no stopping the power running of USC on Saturday, and I could almost sense Trojan head coach Pete Carroll winking on his way out of Memorial Stadium as if to say, "how does it feel?"

And so, we move on. Up next, Ball State. Incidentally, Ball State rushed for nearly 300 yards in their game last week. Think they're licking their chops after watching the Huskers performance? Better believe it, and Nebraska better be ready this time. If they take anything away from Saturday night, I hope it's a renewed sense of inner-strength. It's time to show some guts, Big Red.

On a happier note, the Lady Huskers are continuing to roll. Last Wednesday, they hosted seventh-ranked Texas at the Coliseum, and blasted them three games to none. Then they packed it up and headed to Lubbock, Texas, for a match against the Red Raiders of Texas Tech who provided zero competition on Saturday night. Another three games to none win, and the Huskers continue to solidify their top ranking. They play host to Texas A&M next Saturday.

GO BIG RED!!!

Game #3

2007-09-15T11:56:00.000-06:00

The day hath arrived. The Trojans of the University of Southern California ride their big white horse into Husker Nation today, and bring with them all of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Word on the streets of Lincoln has it that the likes of Will Ferrell, Keanu Reeves, and even Snoop Dogg will be inside Memorial Stadium to witness the big event today. Yes, Tinseltown is here as the number one team in college football stops in to battle the Huskers.

I have toiled, processed, examined, analyzed, and racked my brain for an entire week as to just how this thing is going to go today. Each and every time I think about it, I find myself continuing to come back to one question: how in the world are the Nebraska Cornhuskers going to compete against such a superior USC football team? On paper, we don't stand a fighting chance. On paper, we are going to get creamed. On paper, this has the potential of being very ugly. On paper, we don't even belong on the same field as USC. The Trojans have put themselves in the same position as the Huskers during their mid-90's dynasty: there is #1, and then there is everybody else. USC has seperated themselves as such an elite team, that to call them #1 in the nation almost takes away from their superior talent level.

But all of that is on paper, and the Huskers have a prime opportunity to accomplish what nobody in the nation expects. All of the pieces are in place: the electric and loud home crowd, the national spotlight, and the talent. Yes, I said talent. Make no mistake - Nebraska has the talent to upset USC, but they will need much more than strictly talent tonight. Tonight's game is about heart. It's about fortitude. It's about who wants it more. It's about that killer instinct that has been missing for many years from Nebraska Football. The 2007 Huskers have the chance to take the program to the next level in its quest to return to the nation's elite, but they have got to find that killer instinct. Now.

It's time for these Huskers to take some big-time chances, open up Callahan's West Coast offense, and prove to the Trojans, and the nation, they are not afraid. Call me crazy. Call me a stupid Husker fanatic. Call me a blind Big Red fan. Call me whatever you want, but I think the Huskers get it done tonight. Why? Because I gotta believe. I gotta believe that this USC football team is really just human. Talented humans, fast humans, smart humans, but humans. They put their pants on in the morning just like I do, and they can be smacked around a bit on the gridiron. The Huskers, and the 80,000+ at the old stadium will prove it.

The chess match between the offensive-minded Callahan and the defensive-minded Carroll will be a fun one to witness, and I think Callahan gets the upper hand in this one. The Huskers shut down USC's offensive attack, and find just enough chinks in the mighty armor of the Trojan defense to win it, thanks to strong performances by running back Marlon Lucky and wide receiver Maurice Purify. Final score: Huskers 20, Trojans 17.

I gotta believe.

GO BIG RED!!!!

A Fat Man's Dialogue

2007-09-12T22:31:00.000-06:00

The Lincoln paper recently ran an editorial article discussing America's alarming obesity rate. At the center of the article was a report from the Trust for America's Health, which showed not a single state reporting a drop in its obesity rate in 2006. To the contrary, 31 states showed an increase. The Trust largely blames the federal government for not doing enough to combat what it refers to as an epidemic, and has suggested a so-called National Strategy to Combat Obesity.

As a person who has battled obesity nearly my entire life, I feel more than qualified to say this: Enough already! The government has saturated our culture with literature, education, and tools for becoming a healthier society, almost to the point of overkill. It doesn't take a lot of searching to find all kinds of suggestions, opinions, and helpful advice from government agencies eager to change America to a healthier country. I think the government has done about all it can in the way of providing the education, and the rest is up to us. As the article states, "...possibilities for government intervention could be more intrusive. Some communities already have banned trans-fats. What's next? A ban on funnel cake at the Nebraska State Fair? Ration cards for peach cobbler?"

Government can, or at least should, only intervene so much, and the rest is up to each affected individual. We, the obese, know that proper diet and exercise are vitally important to healthy living. We've been told over and over and over and over. We've been obliterated with statistics, facts, case studies, and countless dieting options. Now it's up to us to as to how to process all of this good information.

If anything, it's time the government tone down the education efforts, and take a harsher stance on forcing food manufacturers to come cleaner with the kinds of effects their products have on the human body. For instance, a bag of potato chips that purports to be a healthier choice ought to clarify that it's really only a healthier choice amongst all chips, but not necessarily a healthy choice overall. I don't know what the government can do in the way of regulating prices, but I do know it's not financially easy to eat healthy. The healthier the food, the more consumers pay for it. Unfortunately, this makes it hard to stretch a dollar when buying food for a family, which may partially explain why there is an obesity epidemic. I wouldn't mind seeing some obesity percentages of folks who are financially well-off. I'm betting the numbers are quite different than what the Trust has cited.

The battle of the bulge no longer rests squarely on the shoulders of the government, if it ever did. It's time Americans stood up and took charge of their individual health, use the resources given to us by our government, and avoid the Big Macs, Whoppers, french fries, and cheesy puffs.

Huskers 20, Demon Deacons 17

2007-09-08T14:26:00.000-06:00

Gulp.

That little word about sums things up as to how I'm feeling after today's Big Red performance. The Huskers just never got going offensively, and once again relied on the defense to bail them out. It was a game right down to the end, and it never should have been that way. A number of things went wrong today, and we have a ton of work to do if we are going to hang around with USC next Saturday. Quarterback Sam Keller has not impressed me yet, although he does show flashes of brilliance now and again. Unfortunately, now-and-again won't get it done against the big dogs. Keller just hasn't looked comfortable yet, especially when he's under pressure. He made some decent throws today, but made just as many poor decisions.

Our rushing game was nowhere near where it was last week when we rushed for over 400 yards. Marlon Lucky, who I'm still not sold on, finished with about 90 yards and a touchdown. Not bad, but not fantastic. Overall, we were somewhere in the neighborhood of 120 yards total on the ground. Again, a far cry from where we need to be if we are to compete against the top programs in the nation this season.

To say I am not satisfied with things would be an understatement this week. I'm flat scared to death of what could happen with the Huskers in the future. I have a couple of thoughts lingering in the back of my mind as to why things didn't go well today; 1. Still shaking off early-season rust. 2. First game on the road. 3. Didn't want to show too much before USC comes to town. 4. Played conservative so as to prevent serious injuries. But those all seem like excuses, especially since we didn't really do enough to win - it was game right down to the last minute, and a decision that could have gone either way.

In the end, though, it's a 'W'. We are 2-0, and can now officially call it USC week. Let's hope the players and coaches come home and get right to work, and we can finally see a Husker football team who can land a few punches against an elite program. I predicted an upset of USC before the season began, but I am admittedly concerned about such a bold prediction now. We'll see how things play out this week, and I'll offer my final thoughts on Huskers vs. USC sometime before kickoff. Gulp.

Game #2

2007-09-08T08:20:00.000-06:00

The Big Red travels to North Carolina today to battle the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest University. I had hoped this game would be a bigger test than last week as the Huskers warm up for the big showdown against USC next week. The loss of Wake Forest's starting quarterback, however, has helped this matchup lose what little luster it had. That said, there do exist some intriguing elements today. The Huskers take to the road for the first time this season, and into a potentially hostile environment as the Wake Forest crowd certainly knows how to make some noise. There's no doubt the Huskers will have to remain focused and on task from start to finish if they are to put these guys away.

My hopes for this week center around one thing in particular; the Huskers have got to come out swinging, if you will. It has been a trademark of Callahan-coached teams (at least Husker teams) to start slow and as a result, play catch-up for much of the game. I would like to see the Huskers get off to a fast start, and score early and often because if they so much as blink next week against the mighty Trojans, game over. Advantage, USC. Today's contest provides a perfect opportunity to tune-up that quick-start element, put the Demon Deacons away early, and get out of town.

Since this is the first road game of the season, however, I don't see the Huskers being able to achieve such a start. They'll come out and stub their toes a couple of times, but eventually get going thanks to the suffocating play of the Blackshirts. I see the score being fairly close at half-time, but the 'Skers will pull away in the third quarter and the back-ups will get some reps towards the end of the game. Final score: Huskers 38, Demon Deacons 13.

The Lady Huskers faced 11th-ranked Duke last night at the NU Coliseum, and once again, it was no real contest for them. The Huskers swept Duke three games to none, and sent the Blue Devils packin'. Unbeaten and unchallenged, their next victim is New Mexico State tonight at the Coliseum.

GO BIG RED!!

Huskers 52, Wolfpack 10

2007-09-03T22:21:00.000-06:00

My prediction wasn't too far off in terms of the final score in Nebraska's season-opener on Saturday. I was hoping the Big Red would get off to a faster start, but I'll chalk it up to opening-day jitters, and assume they will get better at establishing themselves early on. I was thrilled about the play of the defense, who surrendered only three points (Nevada's lone touchdown came on a Keller-thrown interception returned for a score). The Blackshirts showed they were out to prove their critics wrong, and I think they did a fantastic job.

Marlon Lucky, NU's starting running back, was certainly the darling of the media after his 233-yard rushing performance, and 4 total touchdowns. But I'm just not sold on the guy. I think the only reason he had such a great game is because the offensive line was blowing holes bigger than the Grand Canyon for him. Even I could have had a decent offensive performance behind those big linemen. Okay, maybe not. At any rate, I think Lucky is way too easily tackled and hasn't the heart to really take his game to the next level. I guess it remains to be seen as the season progresses. At any rate, a good, confidence-building performance for the 'Skers, and I'm looking forward to a bigger test on Saturday at Wake Forest.

Meanwhile, the Lady Huskers battled #3 Penn State at the Qwest Center in Omaha on Sunday. Actually, I shouldn't call it a battle because the Nittany Lions did nothing to provide any sort of competition for the Huskers. Nebraska beat Penn State three games to none, then returned home to the coliseum today where they ousted Cal-Poly by the same count. Good grief, are these chicks good or what? They embarrassed, and I do mean embarrassed, the third ranked team in the nation. Wow, this is going to be a fun ride!

Until next time, and as always, Go Big Red!

Let's Get It On!! (Game #1)

2007-09-01T12:35:00.000-06:00

It's gameday in the Capital City, and the throngs of Husker faithful have descended as the coveted Sea of Red begins to fill. The Nevada University Wolfpack is in town to battle the Huskers and begin College Football 2007! My prediction for this first game of the season: The Huskers will look to score early and often in order to get the Big Red Machine hitting on all cylinders right off the bat. They are confident, they are ready, and it will show. Nevada will bring everything they have, but will provide nothing more than a tough scrimmage for the talent-superior Huskers. It will be a perfect opening game for Nebraska as they warm up for a tougher Wake Forest team next week. Husker Nation is juiced, the atmosphere electric, and the Huskers roll. Callahan calls of the dogs near the end of the third quarter. Final score: Huskers 49, Wolfpack 3.

As promised in a previous post, an update on the volleyball team. The Lady Huskers hosted Creighton at the Coliseum last night, and blasted the Bluejays 3-0 in their home-opener. Nebraska remains unbeaten in the early season, and still atop the rankings.

GO BIG RED!

All About Mandi

2007-08-29T12:17:00.000-06:00

Hey y'all - my wife has created a myspace website for herself. Check her out....uhhh...I mean....check out my wife's website...doh!

www.myspace.com/firecrackermom

Ode to Kt

2007-08-28T08:05:00.000-06:00

The past couple of years have given us lots to grumble about when the time comes to park next to the gas pumps and fill our tanks. The digital numbers on the pump after I satisfy my Bronco's thirst usually read right around $80.00. Ugh. That's a quite a kick in the gut. Fortunately, though, I have found a way to smile in the faces of the oil companies and their high rates. My bicycle has become the preferred method of transportation, especially en route to work and back, and it has been good for me in several ways. My marriage is strengthened because when my wife does the bills at the end of the month, she sees how very little I have contributed to the depletion of the fuel budget. That's a very good thing. And although it's probably very little in the grand scheme of things, I would like to think I'm helping the environmental cause, right? Oh, and my health is certainly thankful for the added boost of cardiovascular work. Seven miles round trip isn't far, but in the heat of a Nebraska August, it's no small task.

The best part about my bike rides, though, is the few minutes of reflection I get nearly everyday. The ride gives me time to think about life, to be by myself, and enjoy the company of, well, me. Such was the case a few days ago as I pedalled my way to work on a sultry summer afternoon. My thoughts on that day, for reasons unbeknownst to me, led me to a comment I remember someone making upon hearing about the passing of my Dad. I believe it was a gal who worked with my Dad, if memory serves me correctly. She said something to the effect of, "there are some folks in this life whom you meet and no matter how little time you may spend with them, you are a better person for having met them. Terry (my Dad) was one of those people." This comment has always stuck with me, because I think the person who said it was wise beyond her years. I have found this comment to be incredibly true, and I consider myself fortunate to know a few people who have made me a better person for knowing them.

One such person goes by the name of Katie, and I will reserve her last name since she doesn't even know I'm writing about her. Katie, or Kt as I usually call her when we chat via email, is one of my dearest friends from my days as a student at Wesleyan. She did more for my education and learning experience than anyone I can remember, and continues to influence and challenge me in all sorts of ways just by the type of person and friend she continues to be, and the paths she chooses to travel in her life. She leads simply by example, and she sets one heck of a fine example to follow.

As I made my way through the UNL campus that day, I began to ponder the sad fact that it has been far too long since I last spoke with Kt. Suddenly, I found myself being yanked out of the deep crevices of my own mind by the familiar and exciting sound of the Cornhusker Marching Band wrapping up its practice within the confines of Memorial Stadium. I can only assume they were putting the finishing touches on their half-time show in preparation for the first Husker football game this Saturday, and I quickly felt the goosebumps grow and the hair stand up on the back of my neck as brief flashes of game day sights and sounds interrupted my ride/soul-searching session. As I glanced toward the front of the stadium, the corner of my vision just caught the tall Roman columns which grace the facade of the NU Coliseum, home of the Husker Volleyball team. And then it all came together.

You see, Kt has fought for years to get me to understand there is more to life than Husker football. She has partially failed in that arena, but she has at least succeeded in helping me realize there is more to cheer for than just football. Nearly each time I begin a tirade on the football team, good or bad, Kt asks in some form or another, "so, Kev, how's the volleyball team doing?" Up until last season, I could only attempt an uninformed guess. To be sure, I have followed the lady Huskers a bit more closely, and this season I have not allowed my excitement for the impending football season to overcast the doings of the volleyball team.

So Kt, if you're reading and haven't been able to follow the season so far, here's the scoop -

The Huskers began the year preseason ranked #1 in the AVCA (which stands for American Volleyball Coaches Association - see, I can be taught.) poll. Their first contest came in the AVCA Showcase tournament, hosted by the Qwest Center in Omaha. The lady Huskers blasted unranked Tennessee 3-0 on Friday night, which put them in the championship match against #5 UCLA on Saturday. The 'Skers brought the Showcase trophy back to Lincoln by beating the Bruins 3-1. They are off to a 2-0 start and will look to keep it going this Friday evening when Creighton comes calling to the Coliseum for the home opener. I will keep you posted, and GO BIG RED!!!!

Love ya, Kt!

Now, are you ready for some football?????????????