These are a few of my favorite things.

One day, I will finish the 30 day blog challenge. Today is not that day.

First and foremost, my Bengals. This week, the Bengals battled our bitter rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in the coveted Monday night spot. As could be expected, almost the entire nation predicted nothing but doom and gloom for the Bengals (who have previously made largely embarrassing appearances in nationally-televised games). In fact, all but one of the seven commentators predicted a Steelers' victory. Even worse, our beloved ex-running back Rudi Johnson predicted a 44-0 loss. Ouch.

I must say - although the game ended in defeat (27-21), I am very proud of my team. NO ONE expected them to give the Steelers, a Superbowl favorite, a run for their money. Despite a few mistakes, the Bengals played very well, creating an exciting comeback in the final quarter. T.O. had a tremendous game, Cedric fought hard, and the defense held the Steelers quite well (considering 10 points came mostly from turnovers). I am excited to say that the Bengals lost admirably and that the rest of the country finally saw what our team is capable of. With losses like that, I don't care what the record is. I'll continue to proudly proclaim, "WHO-DEY?!"

...and another favorite thing...

Today, the Penguins took part in the annual Project Bundle Up, a partnership between the Salvation Army and Dick's to provide winter clothing for children from less privileged families. The Penguins help the kids shop, try on, and pick out the perfect clothes. Here is what Geno had to say about his time spent with 10-year-old Brendan: "It's great to help the kids and it warms my heart." Geno even bought the same hat Brendan wanted so that they could match. "Brendan said this is the new style. We buy together," Geno added.

Don't worry. It's not like I fantasized about Sid and Geno lovingly shopping with our future children...helping them try on new coats before taking them for ice cream...that would be weird...

...and finally...

OH. EM. GLEE.

Warning: This entry may contain spoilers. If you watch the show and didn't see tonight's episode yet, stop reading. Now.

Unlike my last Glee update, this entry will be filled with mostly positives.

+ The Kurt storyline is probably my favorite running plotline. Kurt is amazing and Chris Colfer is an incredible actor.

+ The return of Noah Puckerman. Thank you. Side note: His rendition of "One Love" was amazing.

+ Kurt's probable boyfriend (Blaine) is gorgeous. No surprise there. I have a tendency to fall for gay guys.

- Sue Sylvester's character wasn't very funny. She needs some more hilarious one-liners.

+ Finn Hudson. Duh.

- Why does Schue always make bad decisions? Telling Bieste the truth about the kids? Stupid. Kissing Bieste and leading her on? Idiotic. Trust me. Coming from a perpetually single girl, I know how it feels to be led on. She will be obsessing over that kiss for years to come.

- Great. Did I just compare myself to Bieste?

+ The Warblers' rendition of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream." Can I listen to this on repeat for 6 days? Probably.

+ I loved the surprise kiss from Kurt's bully! Typical confused teenage boy. American Beauty moment brought to you by Ryan Murphy.

I absolutely love that this show tackles serious issues like homophobia. If I had to choose one issue I am the most passionate about, it would definitely be gay rights. Hands down. Homophobia is unfair - whether it manifests itself in malicious bullying or not. Every single person deserves the same treatment, regardless of skin color, gender, sexual orientation, etc. Gay slurs, even when used unintentionally, are offensive and do nothing but perpetuate existing prejudices. In fact, I think denying same-sex marriage is no different than prohibiting interracial marriage. Who is anyone to deny someone else love and happiness? Homophobes should not be able to use the Bible to mask their fear and intolerance. One day, people will look back at this time in disbelief and utter regret. I hope I live to see the day when homosexuality is widely accepted and everyone is free to marry the love of their life. It will come.

In the meantime, I'm just glad that shows like Glee are here to raise awareness and preach something that is worth preaching, acceptance and love.

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. - 1 John 2:9-11

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. - 1 Peter 4:8