This week's Ted's Notebook is exactly what the title suggests—a collection of stories, observations, history, humor, and reflections that all found their way onto my reporter's notebook.

We begin with why I've chosen to stay with audio podcasting instead of jumping headfirst into video, and why sometimes the imagination paints a better picture than a camera ever could.

From there we visit Oregon's latest hunting and fishing controversy, ponder America's need for a little more unity and a little less division, and take a humorous detour to an arcade claw machine where the prize isn't a stuffed animal...it's a can of beer.

We'll also consider whether Idaho's new black license plates are simply a stylish trend or something worth thinking twice about in today's world of cameras and technology.

Then it's off into North Idaho history as we search for the legendary Wheelbarrow Mine and the enduring appeal of lost treasure stories.

Finally, we wrap up with one of the most remarkable sports stories of the year as Kansas City Royals rookie Tyler Tolbert ties a Major League Baseball record that few thought possible, reminding us that perseverance, preparation, and character can sometimes produce moments no one saw coming.

It's another notebook full of stories from here in North Idaho...where there's always something worth talking about.