Now, it's time for the Olympics. (And a Top 5.)

The Olympic break couldn't have come at a better time. I need some time off from the NHL, because two Flyers games in a row really took a lot out of me, and I'm happy that the Olympics aren't going to be the same as the last two games: there'll be sportsmanship and optimism and probably a bit less douchebaggery, as long as certain hockey players can control themselves.

Of course, only a percentage of the NHL is going to the Olympics, which leaves a few guys at home. Thankfully, they didn't all shoot their mouths off about like some Mikael Samuelssons I know. What do to when you've got free time during the regular season?

Rookie's Top 5:

Top 5 Things Non-Olympians Can Do During The Olympics

Have one snack that you shouldn't generally eat between games. I know they don't want to put on any weight or slow down their digestive systems, but two weeks without games is enough time to digest and burn off a couple of Oreos or a Nutella sandwich.

Cross one or two things off the to-do list. I'm sure there are some wives of NHL players who've been waiting for this break to move a shelf or have a frame put up, and now that they're home I guess there's no getting around it. Just please be careful, guys. I don't want to turn on my computer and read something like "Defenceman injures hand while opening jar."

Street hockey! I'm sure it would do these guys some good to play the sport they love best the way they grew up playing it. No agents, no journalists, no trade rumours, no salary caps to worry about... only the occasional car. (I mean... "CAAAAAAAAAR!")

Watch some movies and get a leg up on the Olympians in your Oscar pool.

Visit your families! This might be a little easier for the North American guys, who don't have as much traveling and time difference to deal with, but whoever can't go to their families would probably welcome a visit from a loved one during a week where they're not off to a game every other day. It'll do the players some good.


In keeping with my attempt to make food recommendations, Tim Hortons has that badass Go Canada donut, which is probably one of the most Canadian fat-snacks you could ask for. Personally, I'll also be reaching for the box of Turtles I got for Valentine's Day while I watch our Canadian athletes skate and ski and do all kinds of active things.

Don't forget!! You've got until midnight tomorrow (February 15th) to post a comment, which will be another two dollars that HIHW will donate to the Canadian Cancer Society.

AND, in addition, my big sister (who knows an awful lot about how much help cancer patients and their families need) will match our total donation, dollar-for-dollar, so whatever you write actually equals a four dollar donation!