A Day That Will Live . . . .

We're always reminded of "infamy" on this day.  One of the definitions states:  an evil or wicked act.  

Many of us, who were not alive on Dec. 7, 1941, probably lack the full sense of horror that has long resided within those who are old enough to remember---with distinct clarity--- both personal and national events associated with the invasion of Pearl Harbor. 

Only the pages of history and second-hand stories from our elders can attempt to paint the picture and to rouse the full emotions of a day when our nation shuddered at the thought of such a devastating attack on America. 

We can identify with that day, however, if we think of our own feelings of horror on Sept. 11, 2001.  

Both days reflected evil or wicked acts of monumental impact within our modern national history. 

This week, Bill, Annie and I will, no doubt, experience a dramatic escalation in our emotions related to Pearl Harbor when we visit the museum and surrounding areas in Honolulu.   

For now, old news reels and other historical accounts have to suffice, but I feel confident that our standing at the precise location will stir up lasting emotions unlike any we've ever experienced through written words or stories oft told.  We're looking forward to this opportunity. 

Today is the historically infamous day, but there is good news about yesterday's events in athletic history. 

We wore ourselves out, both physically and emotionally, watching the ZAGS-Wildcats game yesterday.  To say our group was animated in our living room game-watching setting is truly and understatement.  

Well, actually Laurie and I constituted the animated pair, while Bill and Barbara stuck with their usual quiet restraint. 

With each basket came whooping and hollering and couch/chair dancing moves that could have gone viral had a video camera been on hand. 

It was loud and it was busy from buzzer to buzzer to that darned overtime buzzer.  What a wonderful college basketball game it turned out to be.  We just didn't like the final score, but we love the ZAGS as much as ever. 

We turned the day into a TV marathon by taking a break after the game to feed animals and then returning to the living room to watch a wonderful movie with Jim Carrey called The Majestic. 

Barbara and Laurie had told me about it a few years ago, but I'd never had the opportunity to watch the film, which features Jim Carrey in a straight role.  

The fact that Bill and I did not nod off----even once---definitely gives the movie, which features a story impacted by the McArthyism era of our American history, five big stars.

During our TV-watching time, we received a few texts from Pendleton where Willie, Debbie and Swiss Miss had gone with the Sandpoint basketball teams for an annual tournament.  

Our disappointment with the ZAGS final score was short-lived, as we soon learned that the Lady Bulldogs from Sandpoint High won their second game and the tournament championship for the girls teams.  

Pretty neat. 

So, on this day, we not only remember historical infamy but also herald the efforts of a talented team of young women and their coaches who have accomplished an impressive feat which will happily reside within their memories forever. 

Congratulations, Lady Bulldogs.  We are proud of you.