Hockey players are human, too

Perhaps it's the extended break between games, or maybe there's another reason, but today saw a couple really strong human interest pieces related to the Columbus Blue Jackets.  I tend to avoid pointing out specific pieces as "must reads" (or would they be better as "should reads"?), but you just don't get this subject matter every day.

• Capital Style: Married to the Game.  Scott Howson, Antoine Vermette and Mathieu Garon's wives discuss life as hockey spouses.  These are some very impressive women.  Mighty tolerant, too, considering the odd hours their husbands keep. 
• Columbus Dispatch: Unwelcome solitude.  Tom Reed takes some time over at the oft-quiet Ice Haus rink to see how injured players deal with being on the team - but not really on the team.  (Poor Ethan Moreau!)  If you don't get it, you'll understand once you read the article.  

Two really good articles, and definitely worth your time if your interest in the CBJ goes beyond what happens from the initial puck drop to the announcement of three stars.