Michael’s Musings

Time to ride

With the emergence of sunshine and warm weather, recent forecasts have got most folks feeling the summer-time vibes. It’s great to see people outside again, working in their gardens, going for a walk, or enjoying a nice evening on the patio. The pristine weather provided motivation for me to pull...

Batting practice blues

There are few moments in sports more deceptively treacherous than the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game. On the surface, it seems like an easy task: walk to the mound, toss a ball toward a catcher, and flash a smile for the crowd. But time and again, celebrities, politicians, and local...

A faded but fond tradition

May is finally here, and for that I am thankful. The lawn seems greener than it was a week ago and it’s good to feel the sun’s warmth grow stronger each day. As I read May 1 on the calendar, I’m reminded of a fond childhood tradition that has faded with time - the May basket. Perhaps a few folks...

Chicken jockey chaos

I’m guessing I am not the only parent who’s had the pleasure of taking their kids to the new Minecraft movie that was released on April 4, based on the popular video game where players engage in a world of creation and exploration. The release of “A Minecraft Movie,” has not only shattered box...

Resurrection to retail

As Christians around the world prepare to celebrate Easter, store shelves are simultaneously lined with colorful products, from decorative to edible. The commercialization of religious holidays is nothing new. I won’t argue whether it’s good or bad, but it makes me curious as to the how and why...

Cold weather baseball

Baseball is a sport synonymous with summer, but every now and then, Mother Nature throws a curveball in the form of chilly spring weather, especially during a Minnesota April. The Twins home opener against the Houston Astros was an experience to remember, as temperatures hovered in the mid-to-...

Thank a volunteer

Every April, National Volunteer Month is observed across the United States to honor and recognize the contributions of volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to making a difference in their communities. This month-long celebration encourages individuals to give back, promotes the spirit of...

Spring Break

The timing of Spring Break varies from school district to school district in Wright County, but the excitement it carries is universal to many. Students and teachers look forward to a much-needed break from the mundane and routine. Many families plan trips to warmer weather climates for a little...

Northstar Train

I was bummed to read that the Northstar commuter train was vastly underperforming in regard to utilization and revenue. I’m not a regular rider of the train but have used it to attend Twins and Vikings games in downtown Minneapolis. The Northstar line runs 40 miles between Big Lake and Target...

The Old Man and the Imp

Whether you’re Irish or not, St. Patrick’s Day is a fun time for celebration and perhaps a wee bit o’ mischief, so I wrote a wee bit o’ flash fiction to help set the mood. The Old Man and the Imp The old man swung tired legs over the edge of a rickety wooden cot tucked into the corner of a small...