Steve,

You and my Dad. He could quote chapter and verse from military standards, Boy Scouts, history, you name it, about flag protocol. Drove us nuts, but at least we understand the purposes, and that makes it right. I never knew anyone else's family who knew these things, never mind practiced them.

Anyway...

I figure the flag thing backfired on the US team.

What impressed me the most about the game was the level of sportsmanship on both sides, including the apparent mutual respect. The officiating stunk, but it didn't seem to matter somehow. Unlike the NHL, there doesn't appear to be any prima donna attitudes, thugs, coddling, or ego interference. Pure hockey. I'd love to watch this stuff as regularly as NHL, and so would my kids (both girls).

I was touched by the sight and sounds of the players and crowd singing "Oh Canada" as lustily as they played, with tears of joy and pride. It made a huge impression on my kids.

Thanks for sharing, folks.

Peace, Mooh.