Before going to several Tennessee Titans games with Chris D. back in 2000, I had never been to an NFL game. I was really spoiled going to those games because the Titans were fairly new in Nashville (having moved from Houston a couple years before when they were temporarily called the Tennessee Oilers); the nice, open, natural grass stadium was brand-spanking new; and the fans were very enthusiastic and knew how to get behind their team – they knew when to stand up and get loud and when to quiet down and let their offense work. I even got to witness the Music City Miracle that season, when complete strangers hugged each other and high-fived at the unforgettable conclusion of that game. The Titans went to the Superbowl that year. My impression from my time living in Tennessee is that the Titans led by Jeff Fisher are a class act, regardless of their record, and so are their fans. I’ve always thought Joe Gibbs and the Redskins were a class act too, but between Daniel Snyder’s ownership and the kind of fans I’ve encountered at FedEx Field my last couple of games, class isn't a word that comes to mind during the past few years.  read more »

I started to write a blog entry about what a great year it’s been for me and all I could think about is what a difficult year it’s been for much of my family for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately life’s roller coaster brings ups and downs for all of us at different times, and there’s no way I can feel like I’ve had the best year of my life when some of the people I love may have had the worst year of theirs. I’ve found that some things are beyond my ability to comprehend or accept, and when I’m faced with those things I just try to let go a little and realize I am not in control of any of it. The best I can do is pray in my own way and be there when they need me. I think about every one of you every day.  read more »