Don't worry Mr. Ponder, I'll help you figure out what you're confused about

I've had tons o' fun so far answering questions and trying to bring a fresh start to this blog.

I need to interrupt our regularly scheduled broadcast for something more important. A substantial activity that fills my life from September to February (hopefully).

The Vikings.

I consent if I ever become a sports journalist that this post will come back and haunt me.  I'm not sure I care or desire to comprehend the consequences.  I have been through too many games and too many loses to think fortune will some how change and the Vikings will end up being the Giants or Patriots of the NFL and consistently win for decades.

No, I'm not looking for that type of team.  As a matter of fact, if you ask any Vikings fan, they will tell you that our teams happen to be a once in a lifetime type of teams.

Whether it's drafting a receiver that blows up and has an awesome rookie year; or a QB that comes in an immediately starts exceeding expectations; even a QB who you hated more than that one time your brother gave you 10 stitches in the forehead, these are the teams that Vikings fans live for.

I remember in my younger years going to a movie with my dad.  Before we went we were listening to the Vikings game in his old Cutlass '88.  This was my first introduction to AM radio which I still adore to this day.  My father made a living on the road professionally made me appreciate the wealth of information I could receive from point 'A' to point 'B.'

Anyway, we were sitting and listening to the radio the whole second half as we were driving to the movie theater.  We arrived early and the Lions were driving on the Vikings.  The Vikings had held the lead the entire game (13-7).  My father, myself, my brother, anyone who lived in Minnesota knew that this game would end in a Vikings loss.  We just didn't give ourselves a chance to maintain and sustain a lead on a Lions team which had good pieces but Scott Mitchell as the Quarterback. The VERY last play of the game, the Lions had made it all the way down to the One yard line of the Vikings. My dad said we could go into the movie now if we wanted.

"No, I think we can somehow hold them, we can get this win."

The radio proclaimed what was needed for a young Vikings fan to learn, "Touchdown Herman Moore!  Fade pass in the back of the endzone.  All the Lions need is a extra point to win it!"

Of course the Lions ended up kicking the extra point and winning the game.  But the bigger lesson was understood that day.  As Vikings fans, we need to be realistic with out expectations   We need to expect a season like 1998 to happen more often than a consistent excellence throughout a season, decade, or lifetime.

My brother and I have been through the range of emotions.  Same for most of my friends as well.  We don't expect wins each week, but we expect a certain level of nuttyness to make us wish we either never watched the game that week or watched each passing moment of the week before the next week.

All this said, being a Vikings fan is a lot of work.  But, the ultimate question: will it pay off?

Well Thursday night, the Vikings fell to 5-3 after starting hot but losing some questionable games to opponents that are clearly worse than the Purple and Gold.  And to cap off a first half of the season that saw victories over one of the best teams in the NFC and another team who made the playoffs last year.

As always, it was easy to find the reaction of Vikings fans by listening to the radio and hearing the frustration of whatever could go wrong, go terribly wrong.  And since the introduction of social media the outrage is amplified of how bad this team could be after the first half of the year.

I'd like to look at it this way; after all of the struggling and torture over my lifetime of being a Vikings fan:

We Are Going To Win.

What are the common links that every Vikings' team has had since I've been young?  Other than playing in an oversized hefty bag? The Vikings have always had talent.  And not just a team that has good players here and there.  We've had transcendent talent that is unmatched by anyone in the NFL.

Fans may be asking themselves, "What about this team?  We're nothing special including that douche that seems to think he's a good QB!"

Well, let's take a look.  Adrian Peterson is the best Running Back in the NFL.  Percy Harvin is the best player in the league right now (when we give him the ball).  The Vikings have a perennial all pro at Defensive End and an All Pro at Defensive Tackle.  The linebacker is a top tackler in the NFL and our new safety who we drafted is in line for a possible Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

This is not uncommon to other years.  Why aren't we rallying around this team?

Herman Moore (who by the way, was unreal and should be in the hall of fame with CC), is not going to come out of the woodwork and catch a touchdown to beat us at the last minute. As fans, we need to rally and expect the unexpected with this team.  I think the Vikings can win this year.  Maybe it's a cry for help and a call that needs to be placed for men in white suits to send me to the nearest institution.  But this team can win and the only thing that is stopping us is the mindset of our fans.

Sorry I said it.

Remember to send questions over my way: dvosays@gmail.com  I'm still answering them!

Our Second Question

Somewhere in there is Cheese

The best thing about answering questions, especially ones that are out of the box, is knowing that whatever the answer is, I'm right.  I haven't thought about changing this to the "answers blog" or "question answered;" nothing cheesy like that.  It's still Dvo Says because of the beauty of questions.

I love the fact as the questions come in, I've been able to say, "I'll put my spin on this and I wonder how everyone else will see it." That's the best thing about this blog! Please keep sending in questions to: dvosays@gmail.com.  I would love to keep this thing going.  It's fun for me and more importantly, I hope it's fun for you the reader.


Our Second Question:

If you could only keep an endless supply of 5 items in the refrigerator for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

-Anonymous (Boston)

Fantastic question anonymous!  First of all, let's make sure we have the technical points of the question figured out.  The question has to do with the refrigerator, not things you want to keep as food.  So that eliminates pita chips, pasta (to cook), cookies, trail mix (any kind), and bread.  Also eliminates the freezer as well (technically), which basically takes away ice cream.  Although that's upsetting, I'm going to still answer the question.  The great news is there are many delicious foods in the fridge.

Here is the list, in no particular order:

Apples: Your mom (and my mom) were right when they said an apple a day keeps the doctor away.  You want to know what else apples do?  They suppress hunger, keep you going with energy, and there are so many different kinds.  Apples could be sour (like granny smith's) or soft (like red delicious). My personal favorite?  Honeycrisp. Originally created at the University of Minnesota. They are juicy, crunchy, and filling.  Easy to eat when you need a quick snack.  Just don't forget that napkin!

Actual Image of What I look like when I find PB

Peanut Butter:  For people like Significant Other, she knows that if she buys peanut butter, it can't go in the fridge because I will find it.  And when I find it, I will attempt to eat it all with my hand in one bite.  Peanut butter is addicting for me.  And unlike most things that I've ever eaten, I've never gotten sick of eating peanut butter.  I'll have it with a spoon or butter knife. I'll put it on anything I can.  And when I need something fast, I'll put it on two slices of bread and slam it in my mouth at the same time.  And I'll follow that up with chugging a ton of milk.

Cheese: Uh, HELLO????  Is this thing on?  YOU PLAY TO WIN THE GAME, THIS IS WINNING.  Cheese is by far the reason why I will continue to have a high cholesterol and a never shrinking waste line.  Sure I could lose a little more lbs and tone up a touch, but then I would have to cut out cheese.  I don't remember the last time a day went by when I didn't have cheese.  Whether it's my mom buying Laughing Cow or String Cheese when I'm home, or going to the deli with Significant Other and clearly getting more Land o' Lakes White American to have on hand; I need it each day.  And it doesn't just stop with the cheap cheeses either.  I love fancy stinky french ones to soft and creamy italian ones.  I even love the curd of the cheese.  Fried.

Yogurt: Yes, you read that right.  I love yogurt and would eat it each day if I had an endless supply. Sure, this does load things up dairy when it comes to this list, but you can get protein in greek yogurt now too!  And yogurt can come in all different flavors and sizes.  Also, greek yogurt for me has become a great substitute for sour cream and cream cheese that makes food taste even better.  I don't hesitate for a second to grab some yogurt and would never get sick of it because of all the variety.

Deli Meat: I know it's hard to believe and your probably saying to yourself, "Dvo, deli meat??  There are so many other things that are awesome in the fridge!"  You're right, there are a lot of things that are in the fridge that are awesome.  However, most of those are condiments.  And if I listed all condiments on this list, there could have been an uprising or I would have to be sent to a mental institution.  Anyway, deli meat is great.  It comes in so many varieties and sizes.  I love going to the supermarket and asking for deli meat.  They show me my slice of meat and how thick or thin I cut it. Look, it doesn't take much to make me happy.  From this list you can see that I love the deli and this is a big part of it. Deli meat that is awesome, in no order: Honey Ham, Smoked Turkey, Salami (Hebrew National of course), buffalo chicken (Boars Head, just buy it trust me), Genoa Salami, and of course Pastrami.  I don't get pastrami much, just for the simple fear of getting sick of it.  If I got sick of it, I don't know if my world would exist anymore.

That's it!  And remember to keep the questions coming: dvosays@gmail.com

Our First Question

Oh ya, it's that time for our first question

There was a moment in time last week when I posted my blog and said, "Oh crap, this won't work."  For me, it was a rather selfish idea to see who would respond and what questions would I come across. I felt as though this would be another ho-hum blog that I would continue doing.  So as I was about to start a blog post regarding my endorsement for the next president of the United States and why I feel that way; we finally got our first question!  We'll continue forward!  YES WE CAN!  And it's a doozy.  Again, I'll try to tackle it as best as possible. This is my first go at it, so let's see how it turns out.  Remember to send out questions!  I will answer them (dvosays@gmail.com).


Our First Question:
If you were to an NCAA style tournament of your family vs. Significant Other's family who would win in a:

• Fight
• Cookoff

Despite their sweet looks, my money says the Significant Other's family got some fight in 'em.  Besides, I saw your family raining tears at the wedding, so I know there's a soft spot underneath that Russian exterior.  

-Alex King (Boston).

So since both families (Significant Other and I) are very non-violent people (albeit my side can be quite angry at times), I'll say Significant Other's family would win in a fight.  I see this fight being a hunger games type of scenario and their family would totally outlast my family.  They are just much more resourceful.  Their family would build fires and hunt for animals and know which berries to pick.  My brother would make sure he's alive long enough to eat me.  And when we would be at our weakest, our opponent would know when to strike.  They would wait for the perfect opportunity.  Morbid subject, but my family wouldn't stand a chance.

On the other hand, I love your other question here: Who would win in a cookoff?

First, the players:

Dad: My Dad
Mom: My Mom
Bro: My Brother
SOD: Significant Other's Dad
SOM: Significant Other's Mom
SOS: Significant Other's Sister
SOBro: Significant Other's Brother
Me: Me
SO: Significant Other

I think when you talk about a cookoff; you know that each person is going to bring their 'A' game to the show.  Although NCAA tournaments can't just pair teams up, we'll pair up our teams into siblings, parents, and kids (SO and ME).

And of course, as we start this journey for me to hurt feelings based on how I feel each family can cook; let me just say that I love everyone involved.  I'm fortunate to have the best cooks in the world in my families.

That said, let's get started.


SOD and SOM vs. Mom and Dad: SOD and SOM come out strong in the first round.  They prepare a full course meal with one of SOM's famous salads with lettuce, fresh veggies, berries, goat cheese, and homemade caramelized pecans.  SOD goes right to work on the grill, starting with the pineapple on a slow heat.  Next he cooks mini sliders flipping rapidly and toasting buns at the same time.  The table is arranged perfectly and we have wine paired with the meal.

Mom and Dad take a slightly different approach.  Mom helps Dad prepare antipasto apps such as fresh mozzarella on tomato with fancy olive oil and cured meats while Dad starts to prep the jalapenos filled with cheese and wraps them in bacon.   Dad then prepares the steaks on with his marinade and starts the grill with fresh corn on it already.  Mom tries a unique recipe for soup/salad that may or may not be that great.  In the end this could cost them.  The table is set with more food than I (or an army) can eat.

Winner?  There is some good and some great on both teams.  Let's check out how our other teams are doing.

SOBro and SOS vs. Bro: SOS immediately gets to work on a seven course meal with the perfect wine selected to accompany each course tasting.  SOBRO and Bro each have a beer and hang out and aren't that interested in cooking at this point.  Bro promises some chicken wings that he is currently marinating and may or may not make them.

Winner? SOS Wins in a landslide somehow eliminating both brothers; one being her teammate. 

SO vs. Me:  SO starts off with homemade matzoball soup that she has made from scratch.  SO then makes her famous (and patented) salmon with teriyaki sauce.  I sit and hang out with my Bro and SOBRO while being fed delicious food.

Winner?  Clearly Significant Other was going to win this one.  I mean, come on. 

So what do we have after this NCAA tournament style cookoff between both families?  We have a tie with the parents and SO and her sister winning.  Yep, that sounds about right.


That was a lot of fun!  Keep the questions coming; anything ridiculous will do.  dvosays@gmail.com

A Passion Pinpointed for some Purpose?

It has been a year of transition for me.


I find myself in the middle of some good and bad over this past year.  I logged onto my blog for the first time last week and was shocked it has been over 7 months since my last write.  I love writing but fortunately for me, I love my Significant Other and other factors that have "plagued" or "grown" on me these past months.  I am astonished by the lack of enthusiasm for which to write about, but I have told myself for months that although  a book is in order; alas I shall write to keep fresh.

As I thought about the nature of this post, I wanted to write about something that could help people.  I was thinking about starting with our potential new Brita we are thinking about buying and how it will save me time to fill it because it holds more water.  Then I was thinking about all the restaurants we've been to over the past seven months and implore the masses to find their way to them because of a certain dish or cocktail that tickled my fancy. I realized those things wouldn't be interesting or unique for helping others.  Instead I thought I should write about my research of the Caribbean as Significant Other and I find ourselves wanting to honeymoon for real-real.  Again, these things interesting and a good read.  But are they helpful to people?  Especially the close readers of my blog?

I love football.  In fact, I can definitively say that it is my favorite sport to watch and possibly play (although I can't say no to a pick up game while I drop dimes like Scottie).  I thought more about the blog and what the purpose was and I said, "yes, my passion is football and I can help people by giving fantasy advice and analysis to anyone that cares."

That doesn't provide the meaning I really want. And besides, let's be real:  I've been in my fantasy league for years now (dynasty style), and haven't won a single championship.  What type of insight could I provide that won't be duplicated by the talking heads in sports world?

"Questions? As long as I'm holding this drink, sure."

Finally, as I sat and had a cocktail (Old Fashion extra sweet, something "big and brown" as Mr. Draper would say), I realized that this blog should be more about my readers than anything I can write for you to read.  I want my readers to ask questions and engage in conversation that is important to the NOW and not just things that I feel are important.

I want to be a "Dear Abby" without the feminine touch.  Or a mailbag answer-man without the generic hoopla; (no advice such as "Tom Brady is a great play this week vs. the worst pass defense in the league"). I will answer any and all questions without bias or reserve while injecting personal humor and life experiences that make me a so called "expert at everything."

Ok, no one calls me that but you get the idea.

Blogs (as all mediums) should be a conversation.  A what's interesting now vs. a what about what I think arena; it has no shelf-life or prejudice.  Just real ol' fashion questions that are answered which are discussed.

I forgot what that was called but I think it's called: AMERICA.

So at this point you're probably asking yourself this question: Why in the "F" should I care what you think and why should I write to you?

Great question friend.

Why you should care about what I say: Well for any of you who know me, you know that I care about you. So if you're someone that I know, you know that I think that you probably care about me because I care about you.  I'm loyal and am interested in who you are.  By asking a question, you probably want to know what I think but ALSO WANT ME TO KNOW WHAT YOU THINK.  And you're SO right I want to know what you think.  Got it?

Why should you care about writing me:  This one is a little tricky to answer but follow me.  You should write to me because you have a burning hole in your soul.  For me it is simple.  Each day I have a question (if not a few or even many) that I want to open up to a forum and say, "What says ye audience for yearning question that hath no bounds?" And as many of you know, I certainly ask questions all the time and it may not come out right or have the proper audience to truly appreciate the meaning (or it makes no sense entirely such as this blog post, possibly).  But what this forum does is eliminate the people that don't understand you or that don't understand me or possibly don't understand the question given to me or the response to that said question.  Basically, I'm going to get the question you write to me.  Whether I answer it fully or not will start a discussion that could last a day, a week, a month, or year(s).

We are all privy to these examples each day.  You like texting yes?  Well, it's sort of like that.  Some conversations last longer than others.

So here is my promise to you.  I will answer any question that you send me as long as it is:

A) Decent.  We're grown up but not grown up enough.  So you know the where the line is drawn, observe and respect.

B) Something that I can somewhat answer or BS my way through.  Ask me about the Nikkei or physics, I won't be able to make that relevant or interesting for you when I answer. So here is a list of some things that I know: playing and watching sports, food, drink (all types and recommendations), life, love, politics, heavy traffic (flow if you will), Settlers of Catan, your parents, my parents, sibling rivalries, travel (US only), history, love of wisdom, movies, TV (including shows such as Breaking Bad), books that I've read, good music (no DMB or Madonna), leadership, office life and culture, long walks on the beach and your conversations while on said walks, technology (mobile and such), irrational fears (including but not limited to flying, snakes, and failure), social situations, New Years Trees (Russian only), Real Housewives of New Jersey, golf courses (both MPLS and Greater Boston), National Historic Landmarks, laundry, and fantasy football.  BUT ASK AWAY, these are just some examples.

Finally, many people are afraid of the internet because of privacy concerns.  I am no different (hence my hesitance to sign up with Facebook after a 3 year absence).  When you email me (coming in a second where to), please write ANONYMOUS OR YOUR NAME as the preference so I can address the question properly.   I'll include it in the blog.  If you wish to stay incognito, I'll respect that.  If you wish to have your name included, let me know.

Otherwise, I include names because I reward thinkers that think.  I'm blessed to be surrounded by people who are intelligent and vocal about their opinions.  

So ask away here: dvosays@gmail.com.  I promise try to answer all questions until we get to the next step.  Not sure what that is but if this becomes something way bigger than I can handle, I'll ask for help in the blog while trying to leave the country to never deal with questions again.  I can only hope it gets to that point.

Can't wait to hear from everyone.

Work/Life

Friday, where the brain is full.  

Whew, we made it.  It's almost Friday.


You know, that strange day of the week where you compare notes for the upcoming weekend.  Some co-workers love to share their full thoughts on plans that involve Home Depot or grabbing a drink with a friend that is in town for the weekend.

You may have other co-workers that have made plans with you.  Sometimes you fondly dream of future memories that cannot be bottled in after a (long) five day work week.

Yup, Friday.  Come on, you remember Friday.  It is a day like no other.  Even in the name: FRY DAY.  The day in which your brain is completely fried from co-workers, tasks, and projects.

Friday has a certain appeal to me.  Friday is a day to catch up with co-workers.  Ya know, get to know 'em a bit.  Sometimes even the bosses share something awesome (mundane).   The fact is you spend eight hours a day (at least) and 40 hours per week (at least) at work.  No doubt that your personal life will flow into work life.  I'm guilty of it, I share what Significant Other and I are doing on the weekend on a Friday.

And because you are at work so much, your work life defines you as a person.  Right?

Tough call with that one.  You are who you are and that will never change no matter the setting. Professionalism changes (of course) but who you are as a person doesn't.

I bring this subject up because of a recent story I finally had to comment on.  In Boston, a town filled with people crazy about both sports and politics, is man who says that who he is in his personal life has nothing to do with his professional life.

People ask this man, "How can you live two different lives?"

For him, it's simple.  His life outside of work has nothing to do with what he does each night when he does come to work.

Tim Thomas, a man who is two men

Recently, Tim Thomas, the goalie for the Boston Bruins, has made some questionable calls that has me thinking before the eve of my favorite work day.

If you don't know the back story; Tim Thomas refused to come visit the White House in a celebration for his team's Stanley Cup Win.  The President traditionally honors the champions of college and professional sports by inviting the winning team to the White House and showing the team a grand time.  Tim Thomas, out of love for his country, decided that his political views (blaming both left and right) would impede him from having a good time with his team.  It also provided a platform to make a statement about his personal life.




Of course, since this controversial move, he has refused to make comments on a series of Facebook messages which further perpetuates his stance.  You can read these here.

Which brings me to the ultimate question:



Who are we really?


Beyond the psychobabble of a conservative who's dream is to have "Dinner with Glenn Beck" (his views), Timmy brings an interesting component to the daily grind.  Who we are as individuals have a lot to do with the way that you act at work and how you are at home.

Look, our colleagues at work know this better than anyone. When one of my co-workers say they are going to run errands at Home Depot for a project at home this weekend, we (as other co-workers) don't just say, "great, let me know how that works out."

We inquire. We analyze.  We sympathize.  We recognize.

Although Tim Thomas would love to keep separate his work and home life, it's nearly impossible with the statement that he's made.  Especially with the integration of social networks. These mediums have us connected on a level that we never realized existed.

Sorry Tim, I don't agree that you can keep life separate if you decide to make a bold statement about your political views.  

I don't think that you can have two separate personalities.  You are who you are.

Curious to see what other people think about this.  Are you a different person inside/outside of work?

Safe Travels

Yes, this one's about life.  And it's good.  




I promise I won't keep you long.  I just want to tell you about my travels.

A long time ago, when Significant Other and I started dating, she was far away in Massachusetts while I was living in Minnesota.  Every time I went out to visit her, it would be an ordeal.

I would start out with my flight.  And for those of you who don't know my flight travels, I have a serious issue with traveling.  My family has instilled the notion that I need to arrive at the airport 2 hours before my flight.  To be honest, I don't mind showing up a little early and relaxing.  It's nice to get coffee and not rush through security.  I've always been an early flier so this time was no different.

Once I got to the airport I would wait until my flight took off.  I always connected somewhere because without connections, you're paying a price for airline tickets that don't justify the luxury of flying direct.  Just sayin'.  And yes, I just called flying direct a luxury.

I land in Milwaukee (the most common connection), and then I would then wait a little longer.  Sometimes there were bloodys involved in waiting but it would mainly be more food and me making fun of Wisconsin to anyone that would listen.  Another option would be talking to myself which is a common occurrence for individuals in the Milwaukee airport anyway.  Outside of the feces-like smell, my crazy ass fit in ok. (Note: this is not a ringing endorsement for anything in Wisconsin, except for family).

After departing Milwaukee, I would land in Boston.  Significant Other's college was about an hour south of the city so I would have to then take the subway to a commuter rail line.  After getting on the commuter rail line, I would then arrive in downtown Mansfield.  Pretty much worse than Wisconsin.  Just kidding, Wisconsin is far worse.

From there, I would have to wait for this mode of transportation called the Gatra.  This would be a bus driven from Mansfield to Norton, where the college is.  Usually, this guy would be driving.  And the Gatra would only cost one dollar.  Now, I don't know about the rest of you, but I can't trust anything that costs just one dollar.  Have you ever been inside a dollar store?  Do you trust any of those products?  Even Pop (Soda) is more than a dollar these days.  And you're telling me that I'm able to get in a weird short bus that costs a dollar to drive a ways down the road to a different town?  Ya, little odd.

I finally arrive at Significant Other's college and it was all worth it.  I did these trips for a long time.  Clearly, it was important for me to go!

Jump to present day and there is a different type of reality when it comes to traveling.

Since living out in Boston, I travel home to Minnesota to visit my family and friends.  Thankfully, I'm able to get picked up.  And let me tell you I really do appreciate those rides. (Not saying I'm sassy about not getting a ride from Significant Other when visiting her.  It's just the life and times, you know?).

My brother is the one that usually picks me up.  My parents do sometimes, but my brother doesn't mind and we usually go out to lunch and hang out. It's always awesome to travel home and be with family when you step off the plane.

I bring up my travels because of the last time I went home.  I had a flight home and of course my brother was there to pick me up.

We went straight from the airport to a Mongolian BBQ restaurant at 11:30 a.m.  Nothin' better than eating some greased out Mongolian in the late morning to get your stomach going!  Anyway, we sat and talked and caught up.

It made me appreciate how lucky I am to have a great family (it's growing of course) and a great brother.

It's his birthday today.  Just wanted to let you know how much he means to me.  Bro, I can't thank you enough for being you. I certainly lucked out.

Here's what I advise: Many of you have siblings.  Make sure they know your life isn't the same without them.

Happy B-day Bro!

Yes, a post about Tebow

Blogger Note: Remember, every Friday is sports.  I'll try to make this as reader friendly as possible.  This post is an easy one.

Tebow.  That is all.

Tim Tebow is one of the most polarizing figures in American Society today.  But as his legend grows, more is made of him as a person than as a QB.  Can Tebow be a solution at QB?

When I was 14 years old, I remember going out on one of my first dates.  I don't remember much except for the fact I was picked up by her Mom (as all dates were back then).   As we headed to the movie theater for a matinee, I remember closing my eyes and asking whether the All Mighty could give me a sign on how this date would go. I opened my eyes and would not forget the next image I saw.  I saw a hearse driving across the County Road Nine and Rockford Road intersection.

Understand that I am in no way a religious fanatic.  But that day I had to make a choice.  Whether the hearse episode was a supernatural act, or something of pure coincidence.  I decided on the later.  There are some divine occurrences that I do believe in such as fate; however The Dude Upstairs is not going to care about a 14 year old's date that he doesn't even remember to this day.

So when Tebow started blowing up on TV and on the Internet, I had to keep my cool.  His miraculous comebacks and strange stat lines (316, 31.6) were that of coincidences.  Because there is no way The Dude Upstairs is a Broncos fan.

For me, it was important to evaluate Tebow as a QB.  He does bring an worldly element to the game that many people can love/hate.  But can he last as a QB?  I think that since he has played practically a full season, people can make a fair judgment whether he will last.

I know this will shock all of you, but I think that the key factors are there for him to last.  Here's why:

• Tebow is durable.  He has yet to have a serious injury in all levels of football.  Even furthermore, he's an absolute locomotive.  He's like a 4 Loco. Tebow's workouts are legendary and that helps the durability factor.
• Tim Tebow is clutch. Most of the games this year have Tebow leading some type of drive toward the end of the game.  In most (if not all) of those games he has risen to the occasion and has been physically and mentally unbeatable.
• Tim Tebow is confident.  I watched this a couple of times (http://youtu.be/grM2sb7VYSs) and was floored by the fact that he consistently thinks he is going to win each possession, each drive, and each game.
• Tim Tebow is a cash cow.  He has a top selling jersey and his philanthropic efforts make him ridiculously marketable.  He's exciting to watch and brings in new fans to the NFL that never would have watched the games otherwise. 

Because of these four factors, nothing will stop any team, (if the Broncos go a different direction) from starting next season as QB. Although it pains me to make this argument because he does annoy me with his beliefs, he does try to do good all the time. He works on his game and although he has an uphill climb, he will have enough time to get it done.  After all, the guy is a winner. And if he keeps doing that, there's no way he won't be considered a top QB in this league.

Allow me to reintroduce myself

Guess who's back?

Head-Master Guy Blog note: If a blog was a measure of a person, I would be declared dead.  If a blog was a book, this book would have a ton of dust and possibly a spider taking care of spider-babies.  If this blog was a car, it would be a 1988 Pontiac Grand Am with the 8-track player that doesn't work.  If this blog was a fashion, it would be a Cosby Sweater.


Well, the good news is that I can wear Cosby Sweaters whenever I want (and I do), I used to own a 1988 Pontiac Grand Am, I can kill that spider and wipe off the dust, and most importantly this blog needs to live again.  


Sorry I've been away for so long.  Part of my New Years Resolutions was to follow through on things.  This is something that I want to follow through on. The last version of this blog was all over the place, this blog will focus on the things I love the most (outside of Significant Other): sandwiches, sports, and experiences that need to be written about.  This is of course a blog, so take what you will and make sure to spread the word. 


Here's how it will go, each week there will be three postings.  The sandwiches will be on a Monday, because I make Sandwiches on a Monday and there is nothing better to get over a case of the Mondays than eating a delicious made-from-scratch Sandwich.  


Sports will be on a Fridays to compete with Bill Simmons.  I can only hope that my sports blurbs will rival his.  


And somewhere in the middle or after either of these posts will be a post about life. Something that everyone should know: a story, an experience, or a humerous interaction that needs to be explained.


Because I'm so nice (and interestingly enough, quite motivated), I'm setting up a sneak preview of what's to come.  I've got a double sandwich section because it's Monday and you know I be eatin' them sandwiches like whoa up in this. 


Enjoy!


Sandwiches: In two parts

I consider myself to be a lover of sandwiches.  Significant Other and I went on a vacation to Vegas awhile back and there was a restaurant called "Earl of Sandwich."  Upon my insistence, we went every day.  In an effort to spruce up my future sandwich truck that I'll own (dare to dream), I needed to start collecting my best recipes.  I bounced the ideas off of Significant Other and knew that these were secrets that I could not keep from all of you.

Sandwiches can solve world peace. The problem is we haven't found this sandwich yet.  My role here is to find that sandwich, make it, eat it, then share it with all of you.

Here are my latest creations:

The Frisco 
Ingredients:

2 slices of wheat bread (Think the thick stuff, not that weak sauce you find in your local grocery store)
Roast Beef (I like meat so I had a lot of it.  To each their own)
1/4 cup of mushrooms and onions
1 slice of lacy swiss cheese (this exists, go to your grocery story and find it; I recommend Boar's Head).

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup of fat free sour cream
1 Tbs of horseradish
1 tsp of white wine vinegar
2 tsp of dijon mustard (NOT GRAY POUPON. No one likes Gray Poupon http://goo.gl/ixcLh)

Directions:

In a saucepan, saute onions and mushrooms (add crushed garlic if you want but not a ton).  While sauteing vegetables, use an iron skillet to toast the bread lightly on both sides.  Remove bread from iron skillet. Put Roast Beef on iron skillet to warm.  Lay the meat flat as to give the sauteed veggies a bed.  Put sauteed veggies on top of meat and let it warm for a few minutes.  Finally add lacy swiss cheese (should be able to cover both the meat and veggies). While the cheese is melting, spread homemade horseradish on both sides.  Put the meat, veggies, and cheese on the sandwich and serve.  Cut in half and as an option, use BBQ sauce (something mild) as a dipping sauce.

The Monte (with chicken)


Ingredients:

1 Onion Roll
Oven roast Chicken Breast (you can use your own chicken breast,  however, the best sandwiches are made with deli meat, just sayin')
1 Slice of Smoked Gouda
1 Apple (preferably something juicy yet neutral.  Don't go Granny Smith because that will ruin it. Something like a Jazz or Honeycrisp apple would be perfect).
1 Egg
1 Tbs Milk
Some butter (3 tsp)
Some sugar (bout the same)
One shot of Jack Daniels (other shot optional for taking after making this awesome sandwich as celebration)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Set in cookie sheet (or pizza stone if possible) and let that sit and warm up.  Turn on an iron skillet and let that warm up as well.  In a sauce pan, melt butter and add sugar to reduce.  After about a minute you should have a nice base.  Add a slice (generous) of apple and cook in saucepan.  While cooking in saucepan, flambe with Jack (just pour that Jack like it's Saturday Night).  Optional here to have a shot as well.  Flip over to the other side and repeat with a little more Jack.  Let that slice sit.

In a bowl, beat the egg and add milk.  Add salt and pepper if you'd like as well.  Dip the onion roll (cut in half) in egg/milk and put on skillet.  Flip onion roll  to the other side and add oven roast chicken on the skillet. About a minute should pass and chicken should be warm.  Put the chicken, flambe apple and smoked gouda on the sandwich and close it up.  Take the completed sandwich and stick it in the oven for 3 minutes.  The smoked gouda should be melted and you're ready to eat.  Have some deli mustard as an option.  I thought it needed a little spice and the Significant Other thought otherwise.  To each their own.


Pictures to come for each Monday's sandwich edition.


A New Type of Optimism


I make mistakes.  Early in my life, these mistakes were life changing.  Now, these mistakes are just erroneous predictions of sports teams I love.  I can't hide it, I love the Timberwolves.  In a grander scale, I love the NBA but really, I love the Timberwolves.  Some of my best memories of sporting events were early 2000's when I got tossed tickets (thank you Krish) to go see KG play.  His intensity covered the fact that he would have been the best #2 guy on the team.  He wasn't a #1 guy and needed help and we never gave him the extra help he needed.  It took a season of Spree and the Alien to say, "Yes, KG needs help, and he can't do this alone."  The next season, Spree needed to feed his kids and so started the decline of the Timberwolves.

PAY THIS MAN HIS MONEY

So, when Kevin Love, B-Easy, and Darko started playing some inspired ball early last season, I blogged about how much this would be the start of a new era.  Well, it kinda started a new era; but in reality, I gushed about Michael Beasley and Darko for about an hour and I can't have that hour back.  This was my mistake.  This time  I am not making a mistake and the Timberwolves are officially a team to take more seriously than a doormat.

Kevin Love is a top 8 player in the league right now.  The facts are the Timberwolves need to sign him to an extended max deal.  After this priority is set, there needs to be a series of moves to take the Timberwolves to contending for a playoff spot to advancing in the playoffs.  To me, the Timberwolves have four movable pieces that can combine with expiring contracts to make a switch for players.  B-Easy (expiring 2012-2013), Martell (expiring contact plus veteran?), Tolliver (expiring contract), and Wes Johnson.  Basically, the Timberwolves should find a scorer who can handle the ball and be less selfish than one certain player on this team WHO ONLY GOES LEFT.  I'll let you take a guess who that is.  And since the Timberwolves can't trade Darko to save their lives (worst contract on the team), then the Timberwolves should make a play for Andre Iguodala.  His contract is huge, but with so much coming off the books in a couple of years, the Wolves could afford him.  And besides, the most important note is that the team would trade a crappy SF who is selfish and uncoachable for a leader in Andre who scores a ton of points AND plays good defense.

This is my solution.  It all starts with locking up Kevin Love first.  That gives the Timberwolves a range of flexibility to start moving pieces that will add up to one very good player.  My eye is set on Iguodala.

The South End

A Lesson Applied


I'm not going to start off by saying I'm either getting old or don't get out that much.  No; saying that would mean it's true.  What I will say is we don't get out that much.  So when Significant Other and I decided we wanted to paint the town multi-color, we did it because it was time to show ourselves that we were still young and adventurous.

The South End, for those who do not live in Boston, is a quaint area of town.  Nestled in the middle of downtown Boston, it boasts a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs.  Significant Other and I decided that it would be fun to do something I recommend all of you do.  We desired to know our city better, and what better way than to ask the locals.

The plan was this: research our best option for dinner, then let our neighborhood be our guide.

We walked into a local spot called Coda off of Columbus Ave.  We wanted to share meals because we're basically a power couple and power couples share meals.  I would assume when Jay Z and B go out to eat, they share a variety of meals.  We were basically Rap Superstars this particular Saturday night.

We ordered Steak Frites and Grilled Sea Scallops with Couscous.  The meal was the second best thing going (the company was clearly the first).  We also started on a couple of drinks, a Makers Mark Old Fashion for me and a Grapefruit Summer Press for the Significant Other.  It was 50 degrees in January which made the drink quite appropriate for the situation.

At the end of our meal, we had no clue what to do.  So we started our adventure by asking the bar manager where to go.

"We're new around this part of town.  Can you give us a recommendation on where to go next?" I asked with the most Minnesotan accent possible.

"You guys should try the BeeHive.  They have live music and great drinks and food," he replied.

So on we went.  We went to the BeeHive and asked where to go after that.  We stopped at B&G Oyster and asked where to go after that. We stopped at Coppa, which smelled like garbage and we didn't ask anyone there.  But if there was a way to bottle that smell and sell it as the worst smell on Earth, I would.

Finally, we hit Union Bar and Grille.  A fantastic bartender served us up more drinks and we proceeded to the next bar of his recommendation.  So on and so on.

All and all, a fantastic night.  Significant Other was dressed to impress (and she absolutely impressed) and it was great way to explore a part of town where we had no idea where to go next.

I recommend each of you to explore your own town.  Go to an area that you're not familiar with and ask around at each establishment.  I promise you won't be disappointed and you'll find some truly unique spots that you never knew existed.  Don't go into the hood.  There aren't many good establishments there.

Let me know if you guys end up doing this!  Love to hear the results, especially from Minneapolis.

Sir, would you like an upgrade?

Viva

First of all, my sincerest apologizes for being gone too long.  Things come up, I get busy and I forget how much I enjoy talking about whatever.  As my dear friend Adam put it, "you mind as well call it Dvo said."

Point readers.  Thanks gang.  Now, let's get to work.

Significant Other and I debated for a long time about a spring break vacation.  She has some time off for a week in April and was begging to go somewhere.  I was skeptical.  Not only is the Middle East imploding which creates gas prices only Charlie Sheen can afford, but just the sheer planning really up'd my #tigerblood pressure.

Dateline: Boston, about 11 p.m. on a recent Saturday.

Significant Other: We really just need to pick somewhere, everything will be expensive.
Me: I just don't know... I would love to go somewhere however everything is so expensive and there are too many options to narrow it down.

We came together for dinner the next night.  The discussion lasted for hours.  Finally, there is one place in the whole world that provides a nice place to stay with warm weather in April.  And this place has anything that you want to do.  Our eyes lit up and we finally decided:

Las. Vegas.

That's right folks.  The one place in the U.S. where drinking in public is encouraged.  Of course, we're both excited for a host of things.  Significant Other likes the pool options and I personally can't wait to see some Cirque shows.

Although our decision was clear, planning was/is still complicated.  We have a variety of options to stay and we've penciled ourselves in the MGM Grand.  It got great reviews from my parents and the pool seemed to say, "come on in, you're on vacation and you're staying at the MGM GRAND."

$20=Bi-Winning

I started exploring further.  I want this trip to be special but I don't want to break the bank.  Is it possible?  This website thinks so.  Apparently there is a underground secret that runs through Vegas like Charlie Sheen does with briefcases delivered to his house.

Basically when checking into the hotel, slip a twenty between your credit card and driver's license.  Just as the hotel clerk is processing your room, he/she will notice the money.  At that point, you ask for an upgrade.

I looked deeper and there is a ton of different views about this. I'm not sure if I've been kept in the dark (I know, it's called tipping) or if this will get me that much.  Some dude slipped a hotel clerk a $20 and he got the Charlie Sheen suite at Aria (last one with Sheen, promise).  I mean is that for real?

I'll try this in Vegas when I'm there of course.  And I'll clearly make a huge scene whether it works or not.  And if this does work, I'll be sure to use this in other places outside of Vegas.  For instance:

-speeding tickets (officer, no one needs to know about this)
-my boss at work (more vacation days?)
-girlfriend (discount on the cable bill?)
-automotive retailers ($20 for rims?)
-VIP sections of clubs/bars (not paying more than  an ol' Lincoln here)
-library (I buy, not borrow)

We'll see what happens, I'll keep all of you posted.  But either way, I can say I tried it.  And that's like #winning in itself.

A "Harry" situation

Beautiful Fort Wayne, Indiana

Caution: may not be suitable for children or old people with heart conditions.


I'm sure some of you have seen the raging debate that is going on in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  This fairly large city (relative of course) is home to a sacred history.  A traditional midwest town that was settled by the French but eventually grew into a manufacturing haven during the mid-20th century.

As manufacturing was less in demand, the economy in Fort Wayne diversified and became known for its education, healthcare, insurance, defense, and security (according to Wiki).  The city has a thriving economy and has decided to expand.  The city has plans to build a new government center.  The problem?  It didn't have a name.

So what does a great democracy do?  They wanted to hear from the people via this nifty thing called the internet.  Great idea Fort Wayne!  Glad to see you're separating from Cairo.  Let the people have a voice.

And so they did.  This message board displayed the results.

Yes, you saw it right.  The people want to name their new government building after a proud mayor in the 1940's.

His name is Harry Baals.  By the way, I'm not writing a blog just to have confusion of how his last name is pronounced.  It's "balls."


I'll let you chuckle for a second.... ok.  Let's continue. 


Relatives have since pronounced their last name "Bales."  However, the town is a bit.... testy (stole that joke, heard it earlier but had to share) and they want their new government center to be named the Harry Baals Government Center.

However, the Deputy Mayor has already said that the name is a no go. I completely understand that.  The issue arises when you give your people the power to voice there opinions.  On the message board, Harry Baals already has 10,000 votes, while the second place vote getter has 500.  The people have spoken.  You don't need to call it Harry Baals.  Maybe H.B. Government Center.  Or H. Baals Government Center.  The new mayor can even pronounce the name "Bales" if he/she feels uncomfortable.

The fact is that Harry Baals was a strong influence in Fort Wayne and should be recognized for it.  Even the people think so.

Let's hope the city makes the right decision and honor the legacy of Harry Baals, Mayor Fort Wayne.  Seriously.