Let the players play — and the fans behave

One of the highlights of my job is getting to see a lot of high school sports.In my short time in Nebraska, I’ve had the privilege of covering state playoffs in football, volleyball, softball, and basketball. I’ve watched athletes compete at state in cross country, wrestling, and track.

’Twas the Night After Press Time

’Twas the night after press time, when all through the shop,Not a keyboard was clicking, not even a pop.The pages were proofed and sent off with great care,In hopes that no typos would suddenly glare.

Don’t forget what Christmas is really all about

Growing up, I loved watching Christmas specials on TV.From Frosty to Santa Claus, Rudolph to White Christmas, those shows always put a smile on my face.You can learn a lot about the world by watching Christmas specials. But there is one that stands above the rest.

Sometimes we over think to find the perfect gift

I don’t know about you, but I started my Christmas shopping months ago.I keep a running list on my phone of gift ideas for everyone in the family. Throughout the year, if I spot something one of the kids or my wife might like, I grab it and stash it away.

Finding gratitude in the worst of times

Sometimes I feel like we are living in Charles Dickens’A Tale of Two Cities.

Memory is a funny thing

Sometimes I am amazed at how my mind works.I remember the most random things — random occurrences, random scenarios from my childhood.Last week my mind hit a brick wall.I was getting ready for Thanksgiving travel and looking up directions to my parents’ new house.

Watch the right hook

It’s been a while since I’ve been punched in the face. Actually, it’s been ever. Until the other day.I wasn’t looking for trouble. I wasn’t in a shady part of town or covering a heated game gone wrong. I was just minding my own business when it happened — quick, clean, and completely unexpected.

Life lesson learned

I had a humbling moment on Friday.I was driving to a football game with Calvin when he told me that he forgot his backpack at the office. I told him I’d bring it to him on Monday, but that he had to start being more responsible for his things.Let this be a learning lesson, I said. Famous last words.

Survivor: Holtz edition

There’s a new season of Survivor starting, and I am already invested in what happens.No, I haven’t jumped on the CBS bandwagon to watch the show that’s been on TV since 2000. This version is happening in my own living room.

Having the right response

Over the weekend I took my family to the zoo in Omaha. It was a break from the day-today grind, and I was looking forward to getting away and enjoying my day.My parents drove out from Indiana to see us. We purchased a new vehicle, and my mom and dad were driving it to us.