Now that the cooking is all over with and family members have returned home, I took a quick glance back at the week to think about some extraordinary people I had recently met. A high school football coach, an NBA player, and a member of the Minnesota Army National guard came to mind.

For the last five years I have had the opportunity to work the High School Prep Bowl as a sideline reporter. This experience has reminded me why I enjoy sports in the first place. I particularly like meeting and interviewing the coaches, players, and fans from outstate Minnesota who seem to earnestly enjoy every moment of playing in the dome on the day after Thanksgiving. This year I was struck by Tom Murphy, the head coach from Nicollet high school in Southern Minnesota, who choked up on the phone when he described the kids on his team and how proud he was of them. Yes, I thought to myself, this is the high school sporting experience!
Jonny Flynn is a breath of fresh air for the Timberwolves this season. The rookie is struggling with all of the losing going on in Target Center. Yet, his approach to his job is professional and his willingness to do the of-court community appearances is refreshing. Johnny gets that he has one of the greatest jobs in the world and seems to relish every moment of it. His demeanor on the court shows respect for his teammates, coaches and officials. Let's hope the wins start coming so Jonny's positive attitude and big smile don't fade away.
Working an event for FSN where the Wolves players served military members and their families a Thanksgiving dinner, gave me the opportunity to meet John Kriesel a soldier who lost both of his legs in Iraq due to a roadside bomb. It was certainly the most inspirational part of my week. I was honored to interview John and was humbled by his sincerity and his amazing attitude that seemed free of anger. He had served his country, lost his legs doing so, and now is thankful to be alive. He told me that he volunteered to be in the military so he doesn't expect people to thank him, but when they do it is appreciated. His spirit has stayed with me and I do think it's necessary to recognize John and other military members for their service to our country and allowing the rest of us to enjoy the benefits of their work. Thanks John!