I have been in four school spelling bees. Every year I've been extremely nervous, and it's undoubtedly effected my performance. This year, on the other hand, I was completely relaxed and calm on the day of the spelling bee. My nerves of steel helped me win my first spelling bee since third grade.
I hadn't studied very much, so I was almost positive I wouldn't win. However, since so many people got out so fast, the words were never too terribly challenging. My winning word was "surmountable".
There are some drawbacks to winning the spelling bee. I now have to compete in the city spelling bee, on February 5th. I am much more nervous for this one, but I'm trying to forget about it and focus on different things. Like NFL Playoffs. Go Pack!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Sunday, January 16, 2011
NFL Playoffs II
Speaking as a Packer fan, the high point of the 2010 season came this Saturday in the Georgia Dome. The #1 Atlanta Falcons hosted the Mightier Than Ever Pack for a berth in the NFC Championship Game. The experts were split on the outcome of the game, some saying "Matty Ice" and the Falcons would repeat their Week 12 win, others saying A-Rod and the Pack would continue their postseason run.
Of course, I was unbearably nervous on Saturday. 8:30 couldn't come soon enough. I counted down the hours until kickoff, restless and worried.
The long-awaited game finally kicked off, the NFC Championship Game hanging in the balance. Every play mattered: every brilliant touchdown play, every boneheaded mistake.
The Falcons drew first blood, following a rare Greg Jennings fumble. When we drove down and tied the game, I was certain the game would be back and forth for sixty minutes.
With ten seconds left in the half, Tramon Williams pulled off an unbelievable pick six that gave us a fourteen point lead. We never looked back.
We got the ball after halftime, and after we put together an 80-yard touchdown drive, my worries began to give way to ecstasy and revelry. Why had I ever doubted? I quickly checked myself, knowing that Atlanta had had several come-from-behind wins during the regular season.
However, it didn't look like they would come back today. Our defense owned Matt Ryan and Michael Turner, and our offense produced big play after big play. With four minutes to go in the fourth, I began celebrating.
All our receivers had huge games, and James Starks started, much to my delight.
I sat back and relaxed as Chicago beat Seattle comfortably on Sunday. We'll face our arch rivals next week a 2:00. The Jets, fresh off a victory in Foxborough, and the Steelers will face off as well.
Our Super Bowl chances have never been better. It'll be a tough game in Chicago, but I have every confidence that we can win. The Steelers are beatable, and we shut out New York in the regular season. Will this be our year?
GO PACK GO!
Of course, I was unbearably nervous on Saturday. 8:30 couldn't come soon enough. I counted down the hours until kickoff, restless and worried.
The long-awaited game finally kicked off, the NFC Championship Game hanging in the balance. Every play mattered: every brilliant touchdown play, every boneheaded mistake.
The Falcons drew first blood, following a rare Greg Jennings fumble. When we drove down and tied the game, I was certain the game would be back and forth for sixty minutes.
With ten seconds left in the half, Tramon Williams pulled off an unbelievable pick six that gave us a fourteen point lead. We never looked back.
We got the ball after halftime, and after we put together an 80-yard touchdown drive, my worries began to give way to ecstasy and revelry. Why had I ever doubted? I quickly checked myself, knowing that Atlanta had had several come-from-behind wins during the regular season.
However, it didn't look like they would come back today. Our defense owned Matt Ryan and Michael Turner, and our offense produced big play after big play. With four minutes to go in the fourth, I began celebrating.
All our receivers had huge games, and James Starks started, much to my delight.
I sat back and relaxed as Chicago beat Seattle comfortably on Sunday. We'll face our arch rivals next week a 2:00. The Jets, fresh off a victory in Foxborough, and the Steelers will face off as well.
Our Super Bowl chances have never been better. It'll be a tough game in Chicago, but I have every confidence that we can win. The Steelers are beatable, and we shut out New York in the regular season. Will this be our year?
GO PACK GO!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
NFL Playoffs 2011
The NFC Wild Card game between #6 Green Bay and #3 Philadelphia was nerve-wracking and nail-biting to the last. In the end, though, our vastly superior defense overwhelmed Michael Vick, and denied the upstart quarterback the playoffs.
This was Aaron Rodgers first playoff win as a starter, and he finished the game with his usual eye-catching numbers. Also, the seldom-used James Starks put up 123 yards.
Our defense continues to impress, and if Starks can stay consistent, we just might be the best team in the NFC.
We face a worthy opponent next week in the Georgia Dome. We fell to Atlanta, 20-17, in the Week 12 match-up, but we've improved in leaps and bounds.
The Colts were knocked out of Super Bowl contention by the New York Jets. The game was decided by a field goal, but the Jets defense was a huge factor. They allowed Peyton Manning and the Colts only 8 first downs.
The reigning Super Bowl champs were shocked by Seattle on Saturday. This was a game I was certain New Orleans would win. However, Matt Hasselbeck had the best game of his season, and the Seahawks will play the Bears in the divisional round.
The Ravens cruised past Kansas City with colors flying. Five turnovers helped Baltimore win this game, and they face their hated rival, Pittsburgh, next week.
GO PACK GO!
This was Aaron Rodgers first playoff win as a starter, and he finished the game with his usual eye-catching numbers. Also, the seldom-used James Starks put up 123 yards.
Our defense continues to impress, and if Starks can stay consistent, we just might be the best team in the NFC.
We face a worthy opponent next week in the Georgia Dome. We fell to Atlanta, 20-17, in the Week 12 match-up, but we've improved in leaps and bounds.
The Colts were knocked out of Super Bowl contention by the New York Jets. The game was decided by a field goal, but the Jets defense was a huge factor. They allowed Peyton Manning and the Colts only 8 first downs.
The reigning Super Bowl champs were shocked by Seattle on Saturday. This was a game I was certain New Orleans would win. However, Matt Hasselbeck had the best game of his season, and the Seahawks will play the Bears in the divisional round.
The Ravens cruised past Kansas City with colors flying. Five turnovers helped Baltimore win this game, and they face their hated rival, Pittsburgh, next week.
GO PACK GO!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Hockey 2010/2011
This hockey was probably the most anticipated ever. Not only did it promise hockey fun with cousins, but we were visiting Camp Luther beforehand. The Green Bay Speckhards were leaving for Mazatlan, Mexico immediately after hockey, so they decided to get out of the house and give Aunt Heidi a chance to pack. They invited us, as well as the Racine cousins, to go to Camp Luther, in Thee Lakes, Wisconsin, for two days.
The long ride was fun, and we were soon driving through the breathtaking wilderness of Northern Wisconsin. The caravan of cousins reached Camp Luther at dinnertime, so after unpacking our bulging bags, we feasted on pizza in the warm, cozy cabin.
That night was the most fun I've had in a long time. We tubed down long, frozen runs on black tubes, more times than not crashing into the snow banks and receiving a face full of cold, stinging snow. Id' say tubing in the dead of winter is more fun than in summer.
We walked back to our cabins drenched but boiling hot (lugging those tubes up the trails is hard work).
The next day we toured the extensive camp, admiring the wooded ravines and frozen lake. We played board games and ping pong in the rec room for hours on end.
That night, our last at Camp Luther, we played hockey and broom ball on the ice rink. Broom ball consists mostly of slipping and falling, since players aren't allowed to wear skates. The objective of the game is exactly like hockey, except you play with short, plastic sticks, a lot like brooms in shape.
We had McDonald's that night, while enjoying a toasty fire and doing Mad Libs.
The following morning, we partook in the enjoyable activity of packing. This was particularly frustrating, because most of our stuff was soaked.
We left Camp Luther at around 9:00, and had elevenses at a Three Lakes McDonald's. After our mid-morning meal, it was off to the cottage.
True to hockey spirit, we spent most of our time playing CLUE and reading Calvin and Hobbes or Foxtrot on the couch, not to mention playing hockey on a rented rink in Shawano (the ice on the lake and pond wasn't good enough to skate on). We spent the evenings at Freida's, as always.
We cousins didn't exactly acknowledge bedtime. The earliest time I went to sleep was 1:00 AM. New Year's Eve was much the same. Everyone went to the Monroe's for fireworks and champagne, and returned home at around 11:00. None of the uncles stayed up until midnight, so our celebration (if you could call it that) was a bit boring and dull. In fact, we were a bit startled when the clock above the mantelpiece struck 12, and 2011 had begun.
We left the cottage on the 2nd, after the Green Bay group had left for Mexico. Our return trip wasn't all that bad, especially since we stopped in Valpo to watch the Pack beat Chicago.
Camp Luther and hockey were unforgettable. Have a wonderful 2011!
The long ride was fun, and we were soon driving through the breathtaking wilderness of Northern Wisconsin. The caravan of cousins reached Camp Luther at dinnertime, so after unpacking our bulging bags, we feasted on pizza in the warm, cozy cabin.
That night was the most fun I've had in a long time. We tubed down long, frozen runs on black tubes, more times than not crashing into the snow banks and receiving a face full of cold, stinging snow. Id' say tubing in the dead of winter is more fun than in summer.
We walked back to our cabins drenched but boiling hot (lugging those tubes up the trails is hard work).
The next day we toured the extensive camp, admiring the wooded ravines and frozen lake. We played board games and ping pong in the rec room for hours on end.
That night, our last at Camp Luther, we played hockey and broom ball on the ice rink. Broom ball consists mostly of slipping and falling, since players aren't allowed to wear skates. The objective of the game is exactly like hockey, except you play with short, plastic sticks, a lot like brooms in shape.
We had McDonald's that night, while enjoying a toasty fire and doing Mad Libs.
The following morning, we partook in the enjoyable activity of packing. This was particularly frustrating, because most of our stuff was soaked.
We left Camp Luther at around 9:00, and had elevenses at a Three Lakes McDonald's. After our mid-morning meal, it was off to the cottage.
True to hockey spirit, we spent most of our time playing CLUE and reading Calvin and Hobbes or Foxtrot on the couch, not to mention playing hockey on a rented rink in Shawano (the ice on the lake and pond wasn't good enough to skate on). We spent the evenings at Freida's, as always.
We cousins didn't exactly acknowledge bedtime. The earliest time I went to sleep was 1:00 AM. New Year's Eve was much the same. Everyone went to the Monroe's for fireworks and champagne, and returned home at around 11:00. None of the uncles stayed up until midnight, so our celebration (if you could call it that) was a bit boring and dull. In fact, we were a bit startled when the clock above the mantelpiece struck 12, and 2011 had begun.
We left the cottage on the 2nd, after the Green Bay group had left for Mexico. Our return trip wasn't all that bad, especially since we stopped in Valpo to watch the Pack beat Chicago.
Camp Luther and hockey were unforgettable. Have a wonderful 2011!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
We stayed home for Christmas again this year. After a beautiful service on Christmas Eve, we opened our presents. Among mine were a phone, a few Calvin and Hobbes books, a book about the Super Bowl, some hand warmers, socks and Under Armour, and some Agatha Christie books. Some of these presents were given to me for my 13th birthday, which was on the 23rd.
My brothers got more than a few presents, and we all were very pleased with our loot.
I hope your Christmas was blessed and fun.
We stayed home for Christmas again this year. After a beautiful service on Christmas Eve, we opened our presents. Among mine were a phone, a few Calvin and Hobbes books, a book about the Super Bowl, some hand warmers, socks and Under Armour, and some Agatha Christie books. Some of these presents were given to me for my 13th birthday, which was on the 23rd.
My brothers got more than a few presents, and we all were very pleased with our loot.
I hope your Christmas was blessed and fun.
NFL Weeks 16 and 17
Never have I been so engrossed in the NFL, and never have I had a better time watching a Packer game than last Sunday. We crushed the New York Giants at Lambeau, keeping our playoff hopes alive. We dominated from start to finish, on offense and defense.
The Bears beat the other New York team, the Jets. In theory, the Jets are a good team, but I won't buy it until they win some games.
The Patriots easily finished off the Bills, and Arizona managed to beat Dallas. Detroit played a great game against the Dolphins, beating them 34-27. Detroit is improving in leaps and bounds, and next year they might actually be a serious threat.
Minnesota somehow beat the a hot Philadelphia Eagles team, but Brett Favre didn't play most of the game. A former wide receiver, Joe Webb, played well in his absence.
New Orleans defeated Atlanta, but the Falcons will still walk away with the #1 seed in the NFC.
The Packer's momentum carried them to a win against the Bears in Week 17. The Bears, who had a guaranteed playoff spot, no matter the outcome of the game, played all of their starters. Jay Cutler was dropped six times, and picked off twice. Our defense played particularly well, allowing only 3 points.
Detroit beat the Vikings, and they will finish the season 6-10.
Indianapolis has secured a playoff berth, thanks to their victory over the Titans in Lucas Oil.
The Giants, despite beating Washington 17-14, will not be in the playoffs. Tampa Bay was also denied the playoffs, even though they beat New Orleans by 10.
Let the playoffs begin! GO PACK GO!
The Bears beat the other New York team, the Jets. In theory, the Jets are a good team, but I won't buy it until they win some games.
The Patriots easily finished off the Bills, and Arizona managed to beat Dallas. Detroit played a great game against the Dolphins, beating them 34-27. Detroit is improving in leaps and bounds, and next year they might actually be a serious threat.
Minnesota somehow beat the a hot Philadelphia Eagles team, but Brett Favre didn't play most of the game. A former wide receiver, Joe Webb, played well in his absence.
New Orleans defeated Atlanta, but the Falcons will still walk away with the #1 seed in the NFC.
The Packer's momentum carried them to a win against the Bears in Week 17. The Bears, who had a guaranteed playoff spot, no matter the outcome of the game, played all of their starters. Jay Cutler was dropped six times, and picked off twice. Our defense played particularly well, allowing only 3 points.
Detroit beat the Vikings, and they will finish the season 6-10.
Indianapolis has secured a playoff berth, thanks to their victory over the Titans in Lucas Oil.
The Giants, despite beating Washington 17-14, will not be in the playoffs. Tampa Bay was also denied the playoffs, even though they beat New Orleans by 10.
Let the playoffs begin! GO PACK GO!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Middle School Dodge Ball Night
Last night, Sydney and I went to a middle school dodge ball party at Holy Cross. For $5, you could have a pizza dinner, some open gym time, and a fun game of dodge ball.
We played various games, including capture the flag, "continuous dodge ball", and a game called train wreck.
Pastor led a small devotion after dinner, which I honestly enjoyed.
Thanks to everyone who helped with this event! I had a fun time!
We played various games, including capture the flag, "continuous dodge ball", and a game called train wreck.
Pastor led a small devotion after dinner, which I honestly enjoyed.
Thanks to everyone who helped with this event! I had a fun time!
NFL Week 15
This NFL season is becoming more and more unsatisfactory. The Bears feasted on the Vikings on Monday. Brett Favre actually started the game, but injured his shoulder 18 minutes into the game. Retire time?
Despite a valiant effort, Green Bay lost to New England. We had the lead most of the game, but when they scored following an interception late in the game, we couldn't answer. Matt Flynn, filling in for a concussed Aaron Rodgers, impressed me, but we certainly could've used A-Rod.
Every game matters now. We lose next week to New York, and we're out of the playoffs.
Probably the most exciting game of the week was the Eagles-Giants game. The game was tied with seven seconds left in regulation, and the Giants kicker stupidly decided to punt to DeSean Jackson. This decision didn't seem so bad at first. Jackson fumbled the ball, but then scooped it up and ran all the way into the end zone.
The Saints fell to Baltimore after a seesaw game, and the Lions beat the upstart Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Indianapolis kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating Jacksonville at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Tim Tebow played well in his first NFL start. Not surprisingly, he had a rushing touchdown, and he should've had a passing TD, but his receiver dropped the perfect throw.
GO PACK GO!
Despite a valiant effort, Green Bay lost to New England. We had the lead most of the game, but when they scored following an interception late in the game, we couldn't answer. Matt Flynn, filling in for a concussed Aaron Rodgers, impressed me, but we certainly could've used A-Rod.
Every game matters now. We lose next week to New York, and we're out of the playoffs.
Probably the most exciting game of the week was the Eagles-Giants game. The game was tied with seven seconds left in regulation, and the Giants kicker stupidly decided to punt to DeSean Jackson. This decision didn't seem so bad at first. Jackson fumbled the ball, but then scooped it up and ran all the way into the end zone.
The Saints fell to Baltimore after a seesaw game, and the Lions beat the upstart Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Indianapolis kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating Jacksonville at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Tim Tebow played well in his first NFL start. Not surprisingly, he had a rushing touchdown, and he should've had a passing TD, but his receiver dropped the perfect throw.
GO PACK GO!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Downtown Caroling 2010
Today was the Junior Choir's annual downtown caroling day, and I'd say it was even more fun than last year.
We visited the same places, including the courthouse, Aunt Millie's, Fifth Third Bank, the Lincoln Tower, and the mayor's office (unfortunately, the mayor wasn't present this year), and sang mostly the same songs. As always, we ate a free lunch at Coney Island.
My favorite spot was Cindy's Diner, a cute little place with really good donuts.
I think we did a fantastic job.
We visited the same places, including the courthouse, Aunt Millie's, Fifth Third Bank, the Lincoln Tower, and the mayor's office (unfortunately, the mayor wasn't present this year), and sang mostly the same songs. As always, we ate a free lunch at Coney Island.
My favorite spot was Cindy's Diner, a cute little place with really good donuts.
I think we did a fantastic job.
Monday, December 13, 2010
NFL Week 14
Everything is going wrong for Packers' fans! Despite New England slaughtering the Bears at Soldier Field, Chicago is still first in the NFC North. The Detroit Lions handed us a piece of humble pie, so the standings don't change.
The Colts aren't helping their playoff chances. They lost by two in Tennessee, which leaves them in second place.
The Buccaneers beat Washington by a mere point, due to a high snap on Washington's part. Tampa is still a team to worry about.
The Jets are also worrying, losing to Miami on Sunday. A Jets trainer has been suspended for tripping a Dolphins player, during a punt return. Even though he apologized profusely and sincerely, I think that was an awfully dirty, disgusting thing to do.
Philadelphia beat the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night. After the game, the Cowboys' running back asked Michael Vick for an autograph. I can't blame him. Vick continues to play unbelievably.
With luck, we can beat New England next week. Assuming that Chicago loses to New York, we'll be tied for first. Cross your fingers!
GO PACK GO!
The Colts aren't helping their playoff chances. They lost by two in Tennessee, which leaves them in second place.
The Buccaneers beat Washington by a mere point, due to a high snap on Washington's part. Tampa is still a team to worry about.
The Jets are also worrying, losing to Miami on Sunday. A Jets trainer has been suspended for tripping a Dolphins player, during a punt return. Even though he apologized profusely and sincerely, I think that was an awfully dirty, disgusting thing to do.
Philadelphia beat the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night. After the game, the Cowboys' running back asked Michael Vick for an autograph. I can't blame him. Vick continues to play unbelievably.
With luck, we can beat New England next week. Assuming that Chicago loses to New York, we'll be tied for first. Cross your fingers!
GO PACK GO!
Snow Day!
Following a painful Packers defeat, a school cancellation was exactly the thing I needed.
A few inches of snow was enough to close school for the day, and I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful snow.
The roads are cleared, though, so unless we get some more snow tonight, I'll have to drag myself out of bed tomorrow morning.
A few inches of snow was enough to close school for the day, and I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful snow.
The roads are cleared, though, so unless we get some more snow tonight, I'll have to drag myself out of bed tomorrow morning.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
NFL Week 13
I can't complain too much about this NFL Week. The Vikings beat the Bills at home, but Benedict Favre left the game with another injury. He hasn't practiced as of Thursday, and his streak of 298 starts is in jeopardy.
The Browns came out on top against Miami, and lowly Jacksonville had a convincing win against the Titans.
The Saints nearly lost to Cincinnati, but a fourth quarter penalty in the red zone saved them. A New Orleans loss would've really helped Green Bay, as would've a Chicago loss. However, the Bears don't seem to care much about Green Bay's fortunes, because they defeated the Lions 24-20.
Oakland continues to prove their playoff-worthiness. They beat the heavily favored Chargers on Sunday, by a margin of 15 points. Another underdog victory went to St. Louis, who beat the Arizona Cardinals. If the playoffs started today, the St. Louis Rams, against all odds, would be in.
The Cowboys managed to beat Indianapolis (I can't remember the last time they've played this bad), and New England picked apart the Jets' defense in a 45-13 win.
The Mighty Pack ran over the 49ers, leaving no doubt that they were the better team. Aaron Rodgers had a spectacular game. He was 21 of 30, with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions. Donald Driver also put on a show, and James Starks, an undrafted free agent, played surprisingly great.
GO PACK GO!
The Browns came out on top against Miami, and lowly Jacksonville had a convincing win against the Titans.
The Saints nearly lost to Cincinnati, but a fourth quarter penalty in the red zone saved them. A New Orleans loss would've really helped Green Bay, as would've a Chicago loss. However, the Bears don't seem to care much about Green Bay's fortunes, because they defeated the Lions 24-20.
Oakland continues to prove their playoff-worthiness. They beat the heavily favored Chargers on Sunday, by a margin of 15 points. Another underdog victory went to St. Louis, who beat the Arizona Cardinals. If the playoffs started today, the St. Louis Rams, against all odds, would be in.
The Cowboys managed to beat Indianapolis (I can't remember the last time they've played this bad), and New England picked apart the Jets' defense in a 45-13 win.
The Mighty Pack ran over the 49ers, leaving no doubt that they were the better team. Aaron Rodgers had a spectacular game. He was 21 of 30, with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions. Donald Driver also put on a show, and James Starks, an undrafted free agent, played surprisingly great.
GO PACK GO!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
2010 Basketball Season
The Lady Crusaders are 5-6, as of today. We have a long season ahead of us, but we have all the keys for a successful team.
We recently lost to ESM, the best team in our league. We played our best game, and I am very proud of our effort.
I've been having a lot of fun - probably the most fun basketball experience I've ever had.
GO CRUSADERS!
We recently lost to ESM, the best team in our league. We played our best game, and I am very proud of our effort.
I've been having a lot of fun - probably the most fun basketball experience I've ever had.
GO CRUSADERS!
Monday, November 29, 2010
NFL Week 12
Thanksgiving and NFL football - the most perfect combination in the world. I really enjoyed this year's Thanksgiving games. Dallas came within a field goal of beating the Super Bowl Champs, and New England embarassed Detroit in front of the Lions' home crowd (this isn't really a good thing, but at least it was good, exciting football).
The Steelers were nearly upset by the Buffalo Bills, but a Pittsburgh field goal in overtime ended the game.
The Vikings improved their record this weekend against Washington, but they're still third in the NFC North. Chicago, who leads their division, defeated the Eagles 31-26.
The Rams are still in contention for the #1 spot in the AFC West. They beat Denver on Sunday, and if the playoffs began today, they would be in.
Thankfully, the playoffs don't begin today, because if they did, Green Bay's season would be over. Following a 20-17 loss to Atlanta, the Packers are 7-4.
The game was close, and I mean very close. The Mighty Pack were down by a field goal with two minutes left in the fourth quarter. They marched up the field (with little help from Brandon Jackson) and scored the timely touchdown.
The Falcons then reached the 30 yard line, burned some clock, and kicked the field goal. The Packers couldn't do much with 19 seconds remaining, so Atlanta got the win.
Packer fans aren't the only ones suffering. Indianapolis was crushed by San Diego on Sunday Night, and the Arizona Cardinals - who competed in the Super Bowl two years ago - lost to San Fransisco. Their record is now 3-8, and they continue to suffer from their quarterback situation.
GO PACK GO!
The Steelers were nearly upset by the Buffalo Bills, but a Pittsburgh field goal in overtime ended the game.
The Vikings improved their record this weekend against Washington, but they're still third in the NFC North. Chicago, who leads their division, defeated the Eagles 31-26.
The Rams are still in contention for the #1 spot in the AFC West. They beat Denver on Sunday, and if the playoffs began today, they would be in.
Thankfully, the playoffs don't begin today, because if they did, Green Bay's season would be over. Following a 20-17 loss to Atlanta, the Packers are 7-4.
The game was close, and I mean very close. The Mighty Pack were down by a field goal with two minutes left in the fourth quarter. They marched up the field (with little help from Brandon Jackson) and scored the timely touchdown.
The Falcons then reached the 30 yard line, burned some clock, and kicked the field goal. The Packers couldn't do much with 19 seconds remaining, so Atlanta got the win.
Packer fans aren't the only ones suffering. Indianapolis was crushed by San Diego on Sunday Night, and the Arizona Cardinals - who competed in the Super Bowl two years ago - lost to San Fransisco. Their record is now 3-8, and they continue to suffer from their quarterback situation.
GO PACK GO!
Thanksgiving 2010
On Wednesday, after my choir sang at the courthouse, we drove up to Crown Point. We arrived at my Aunt Sue's house at 11:00, so we went straight to bed.
Thanksgiving Day began with donuts and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. After our sugary breakfast, we hung out upstairs, watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in between turns on Star Wars Battlefront 2.
After three hours of this, we changed into more suitable clothes and greeted the first guests. Quality family time is always a good thing, and the delicious meal only added to the peaceful atmosphere. Dessert was followed by more dessert, and then we watched the football games.
At around 8:00, the guests started leaving. My mom stayed at Aunt Sue's house to play a few rounds of Apples to Apples with us. Inevitably, we got to bed very late.
After another day of video games and fun, we said goodbye, packed our things, and headed to Valpo.
At Grandma Speckhard's house, we watched Toy Story 2, while Ella and I had an iPad conversation. When the movie was over, we decided to brave the temperatures and have a game of football.
As always, our football game was full of unbelievable plays, including a one-armed interception, a flea-flicker touchdown, and plenty of sacks. Ella and I were the first to retire, and the boys soon followed.
We had leftover Thanksgiving desserts for cocktails, and then filed into the living room for the first Advent devotion.
Each cousin was $20 richer after devotions, for Grandma and Grandpa had given us our Christmas presents.
I spent the night at Rob and Sue's house with Ella, Anna, Rachel, Josie, and Stephen. We piled four comforters onto our beds, because their attic is quite possibly the coldest on record.
Ella and I arrived downstairs fashionably late, as is our custom, to a breakfast of cereal and donuts. A trip to Rob's is never complete without a hike through the nature preserve, so we bundled up and journeyed into the wilderness.
We took a few pictures of a very strange tree, explored deep ravines, and even found a deer bone, which we took home for Roxie.
We spent the rest of the afternoon at Silhavy, playing "Bug Wars" and listening to music. Ella, Benjamin, Sammy, and I convinced Sue to take us to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (which I had already seen twice). We were all highly satisfied with the movie (Sam only liked it because of Emma Watson), and we went back to Grandma's house for cocktails and devotions.
Sunday was football day, so after church, we all headed to Rob's house to watch the Packers game. We had pizza and dog food dip while enjoying a blazing fire. The game wasn't very satisfactory, so we built a huge castle upstairs.
Our trip ended after cocktails. We waved farewell and hopped into the frigid van, looking forward to Christmas.
I hope your Thanksgiving was as delicious as mine!
Thanksgiving Day began with donuts and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. After our sugary breakfast, we hung out upstairs, watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in between turns on Star Wars Battlefront 2.
After three hours of this, we changed into more suitable clothes and greeted the first guests. Quality family time is always a good thing, and the delicious meal only added to the peaceful atmosphere. Dessert was followed by more dessert, and then we watched the football games.
At around 8:00, the guests started leaving. My mom stayed at Aunt Sue's house to play a few rounds of Apples to Apples with us. Inevitably, we got to bed very late.
After another day of video games and fun, we said goodbye, packed our things, and headed to Valpo.
At Grandma Speckhard's house, we watched Toy Story 2, while Ella and I had an iPad conversation. When the movie was over, we decided to brave the temperatures and have a game of football.
As always, our football game was full of unbelievable plays, including a one-armed interception, a flea-flicker touchdown, and plenty of sacks. Ella and I were the first to retire, and the boys soon followed.
We had leftover Thanksgiving desserts for cocktails, and then filed into the living room for the first Advent devotion.
Each cousin was $20 richer after devotions, for Grandma and Grandpa had given us our Christmas presents.
I spent the night at Rob and Sue's house with Ella, Anna, Rachel, Josie, and Stephen. We piled four comforters onto our beds, because their attic is quite possibly the coldest on record.
Ella and I arrived downstairs fashionably late, as is our custom, to a breakfast of cereal and donuts. A trip to Rob's is never complete without a hike through the nature preserve, so we bundled up and journeyed into the wilderness.
We took a few pictures of a very strange tree, explored deep ravines, and even found a deer bone, which we took home for Roxie.
We spent the rest of the afternoon at Silhavy, playing "Bug Wars" and listening to music. Ella, Benjamin, Sammy, and I convinced Sue to take us to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (which I had already seen twice). We were all highly satisfied with the movie (Sam only liked it because of Emma Watson), and we went back to Grandma's house for cocktails and devotions.
Sunday was football day, so after church, we all headed to Rob's house to watch the Packers game. We had pizza and dog food dip while enjoying a blazing fire. The game wasn't very satisfactory, so we built a huge castle upstairs.
Our trip ended after cocktails. We waved farewell and hopped into the frigid van, looking forward to Christmas.
I hope your Thanksgiving was as delicious as mine!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Halloween 2010
Yes, this post is coming much too late. The delay is probably caused by a sugar overdose, leaving my brain groggy and unresponsive. This Halloween was, indeed, one of my sugariest (yes, that is a word), something I should be grateful for. By all rights, I shouldn't have even been able to go trick-or-treating at all, but after days of begging, my dad allowed me to go.
My friend Meron and I went as the Weasley twins. I was George and she, Fred. Yes, I know, it was terribly clever. The costumes were about as last minute as possible. We were still in the constructing process as trick-or-treating hours were starting! Finally, after we cut down a long, orange wig so that it looked remotely like Fred and George's hair, donned black capes, and found a good stick in the backyard to serve as a wand, we were off.
Unfortunately, we had to skip the first few houses in order to catch up with our group. Despite this setback, we still brought in a fairly good haul of sweets.
My brothers were strange, disturbing monsters that barely passed as Halloween costumes. Needless to say, we're running alarmingly low on costume ideas.
This Halloween may have been my last, but I think I went out with a bang.
My friend Meron and I went as the Weasley twins. I was George and she, Fred. Yes, I know, it was terribly clever. The costumes were about as last minute as possible. We were still in the constructing process as trick-or-treating hours were starting! Finally, after we cut down a long, orange wig so that it looked remotely like Fred and George's hair, donned black capes, and found a good stick in the backyard to serve as a wand, we were off.
Unfortunately, we had to skip the first few houses in order to catch up with our group. Despite this setback, we still brought in a fairly good haul of sweets.
My brothers were strange, disturbing monsters that barely passed as Halloween costumes. Needless to say, we're running alarmingly low on costume ideas.
This Halloween may have been my last, but I think I went out with a bang.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
NFL Week 11
Man, the 2010 NFL Season just keeps getting better! All the underdogs have been winning, there has been no shortage in spectacular plays, and Brett Favre is having arguably his worst-ever season.
Following a humiliating, 31-3 loss to arch-rival Green Bay, head coach Brad Childress was fired, adding yet another plot twist to the Brett Fave Circus. Favre threw two interceptions and had a 51.2 passer rating, while Aaron Rodgers had a career day. He threw four touchdowns, three of them to Greg Jennings, and didn't throw a single pick. The Vikings now have a miserable 3-7 record, while the Mighty Pack are sitting pretty at 7-3!
The New York Jets, who I have mentioned numerous times the past few weeks, beat the struggling Texans in another overtime game. Mark Sanchez has been surprisingly reliable, due in part to his fantastic supporting team.
The Buffalo Bills got a huge win against Cincinnati. Even though they've already dug their graves, the Bills have been playing with a renewed vigor.
Jason Garrett has won another game as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, this time beating the Detroit Lions 35-19. At this point, the Cowboys are just playing for pride.
The New England Patriots beat Indianapolis by a mere three points, thanks to a rare Peyton Manning interception late in the fourth quarter. I don't know what happened to the Colts, but their season has been mediocre, to say the least.
Eli Manning is also in the hot seat, after his inexplicable fumble on fourth down against Philadelphia. He could've (and should've) slid, but instead he tumbled awkwardly forward, losing the ball in the process.
GO PACK GO!
Following a humiliating, 31-3 loss to arch-rival Green Bay, head coach Brad Childress was fired, adding yet another plot twist to the Brett Fave Circus. Favre threw two interceptions and had a 51.2 passer rating, while Aaron Rodgers had a career day. He threw four touchdowns, three of them to Greg Jennings, and didn't throw a single pick. The Vikings now have a miserable 3-7 record, while the Mighty Pack are sitting pretty at 7-3!
The New York Jets, who I have mentioned numerous times the past few weeks, beat the struggling Texans in another overtime game. Mark Sanchez has been surprisingly reliable, due in part to his fantastic supporting team.
The Buffalo Bills got a huge win against Cincinnati. Even though they've already dug their graves, the Bills have been playing with a renewed vigor.
Jason Garrett has won another game as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, this time beating the Detroit Lions 35-19. At this point, the Cowboys are just playing for pride.
The New England Patriots beat Indianapolis by a mere three points, thanks to a rare Peyton Manning interception late in the fourth quarter. I don't know what happened to the Colts, but their season has been mediocre, to say the least.
Eli Manning is also in the hot seat, after his inexplicable fumble on fourth down against Philadelphia. He could've (and should've) slid, but instead he tumbled awkwardly forward, losing the ball in the process.
GO PACK GO!
Joseph's 11th Birthday
Joseph's birthday was celebrated at Matt's house on a chilly November afternoon. After opening presents, feasting on the gigantic Rice Krispy Treat "11" Sara made, and listening to the techno song Avery and Chandler wrote for Joseph, we walked to the park to play some football.
The game was almost as spectacular as Green Bay's win over Dallas. We all had fun, even though our fingers were numb with cold. Finally, we retired back to Matt's house for some delicious potato soup, courtesy of Sara.
There's nothing better than potato soup and NFL football. We joyfully watched Brett Favre's beat-down and then played Joseph's new board game.
It was quite late when we left. The party was highly satisfactory. Happy birthday, Joseph!
The game was almost as spectacular as Green Bay's win over Dallas. We all had fun, even though our fingers were numb with cold. Finally, we retired back to Matt's house for some delicious potato soup, courtesy of Sara.
There's nothing better than potato soup and NFL football. We joyfully watched Brett Favre's beat-down and then played Joseph's new board game.
It was quite late when we left. The party was highly satisfactory. Happy birthday, Joseph!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Suburban Bethlehem Tournament
This basketball season has been eventful and exciting. After our latest tournament at Suburban Bethlehem, we are now 4-4.
All of my AAU teammates played in the tournament as well, so I was very familiar with my opponents. Playing against my friends was pretty weird.
During the second day of the tournament, I competed in the 3-point shooting contest. I sank two shots in 60 seconds, a record I am not happy with. On a good day, I could easily drain four threes in sixty seconds.
Despite the disappointing 3-point shooting contest, the tournament was lots of fun, and our team gained valuable experience.
GO CRUSADERS!
All of my AAU teammates played in the tournament as well, so I was very familiar with my opponents. Playing against my friends was pretty weird.
During the second day of the tournament, I competed in the 3-point shooting contest. I sank two shots in 60 seconds, a record I am not happy with. On a good day, I could easily drain four threes in sixty seconds.
Despite the disappointing 3-point shooting contest, the tournament was lots of fun, and our team gained valuable experience.
GO CRUSADERS!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
NFL Week 10
Week 10 was practically perfect in every way, despite the Packers' bye week. For Green Bay, all the right teams won, including Chicago, Atlanta, and Dallas.
The Cowboys, under new head coach Jason Garrett, finally scraped a win against New York. Their season is virtually over, but a good morale-booster never hurts.
The Cleveland Browns could not finish off the Jets, but they certainly put on a good show. Mark Sanchez proved unstoppable in overtime, but the Browns persevered until the end.
Randy Moss' situation continues to worsen. The Titans lost on Sunday, but that probably wasn't Moss' fault, since he was only targeted once.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who many view as the best team in the NFL, couldn't bring down the Patriots on Sunday Night. Led by Tom Brady, New England has very little to worry about, and the loss of Randy Moss does not seem to have affected them.
Michael Vick and the Eagles performed brilliantly against Washington on Monday, thrashing them 59-28. Michael Vick is being considered for NFL MVP, while Donovan McNabb is facing a dilemma similar to Brett Favre's.
GO PACK GO!
The Cowboys, under new head coach Jason Garrett, finally scraped a win against New York. Their season is virtually over, but a good morale-booster never hurts.
The Cleveland Browns could not finish off the Jets, but they certainly put on a good show. Mark Sanchez proved unstoppable in overtime, but the Browns persevered until the end.
Randy Moss' situation continues to worsen. The Titans lost on Sunday, but that probably wasn't Moss' fault, since he was only targeted once.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who many view as the best team in the NFL, couldn't bring down the Patriots on Sunday Night. Led by Tom Brady, New England has very little to worry about, and the loss of Randy Moss does not seem to have affected them.
Michael Vick and the Eagles performed brilliantly against Washington on Monday, thrashing them 59-28. Michael Vick is being considered for NFL MVP, while Donovan McNabb is facing a dilemma similar to Brett Favre's.
GO PACK GO!
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