World Cup Snippet

Background is a cut of a geographical map of western North America; it shows the coastline of northern US and southern Canada. The cities of Vancouver and Seattle are labeled, with Cascade labeled and placed between them. A large soccer ball fills the bottom right corner of the map. Text reads 'World Cup Snippet' above and to the left of the soccer ball.

“I just wish we had time to go see it in person. Vancouver is close enough to travel.”

“Sandburg, be grateful we can get it on the tube. And there’s something to be said for watching in the comfort of our own home -- without the noise and press of the crowd.

“Yeah, you’re right. And we’re not paying ten bucks a beer.” Blair glanced at the ice-filled cooler sitting beside the couch, loaded with a dozen bottles of beer. “But we could have left the beer in the fridge.”

“Hell, no. As soon as one of us stands and heads toward the kitchen, that’s when one of the players makes an amazing move and we miss it. Replay just isn’t the same.”

Blair snorted. “Man, if we look up ‘anal’ in the dictionary, your picture is right there. Be nice to know if it’s a ‘sentinel’ thing or a ‘Jim’ thing.”

“It’s a sensible thing. Is the popcorn ready? Two minutes till the match starts.”

“Yep.” Blair plopped onto the couch and set the giant bowl of popcorn, liberally laced with butter and parmesan cheese, between him and Jim. “Who’s up today?”

“Canada versus Switzerland.”

“Cool; both great teams. Hey, Jim? Another advantage to watching at home; we don’t have to stand for the anthems.”

“You got it, Chief.” Both men leaned back into the cushions, kicked off their shoes, and rested their feet on the coffee table. Jim handed Blair a beer, then each grabbed a handful of popcorn as they settled in to catcall -- and enjoy -- the match.

The End

Author's Notes

Back to Title List