It's a given. If you have a doctor's appointment, bring a book, you'll be waiting for a while!
I have become the 'designated doctor-taker!' I'm not sure how I received this esteemed honor, but I gladly accept the role!
So we arrive, early. I'm surprised we were early because this was a day when we were stopped by every single red light. We took the same path. Drove the speed limit. Yet, the pesky lights were all in cahoots to stall our travel.
We check in. We see all the doctors are already in the office and think, that's a great sign!
We wait. And wait.
We do have other appointments, therefore, for the first time we actually made a 'cut off time.'
One hour after our scheduled appointment, we check on our place in line. We are told, 'you are next' and then the proverbial BUT. 'But there are 5 people ahead of you waiting in rooms.' We started calculating. You figure, the doctor spends 5 to 10 minutes with each patient intermixed with the other mumbo jumbo he tends to and it's another hour.
Mom would not have any of that....you have to understand. I want to be like Mom when I grow up. She has this wonderful charm that can make anybody do anything!
She started making another future appointment and the Doctor's personal assistant, Dan, came up to Mom and told her that he would get her in NOW! How the heck does she do it?
So he ushers her in and checks her over. As he exits the room, we hear him tell the Dr. that Mom is his NEXT patient. Pinch me. This is not happening. We did not just hear that Mom has been bumped up from #6 to #1.
How does she do it!?!?!????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Sick of the blame game
It’s been happening for centuries and will continue long after I am gone. But I am sick and tired of this ‘blame game.’ It happens at home, it happens in the business world, politics, schools, sports, and even at church!
No one can fess up anymore to just ‘screwing up.’ There always has to be a drawn out inquisition. And of course the people in charge of the inquisition are NEVER to blame, ever. There has to be a scapegoat (usually an innocent one!).
What I hate even more than the ‘blame game’ is politics. But no matter whether you love or hate whichever guy is president at the time, everything is NOT the President’s fault. There ARE jobs out there. I see signs everywhere for job openings. Just because someone does not want to apply for the job. Just because someone thinks the job is beneath them is NOT the President’s fault. My Mother, back in the day, had THREE jobs at once to make ends meet and take care of my sister and I. You do what you HAVE to do to live in the means where you want to live! I do not want to hear these ignorant people saying there are no jobs yet they want to waltz into a position where they have to do nothing and get paid millions.
Or better still, you see people with food stamps at the grocery store who are wearing 200 dollar tennis shoes. Or even better, people at the unemployment line driving a Lexus and wearing a thousand dollar outfit. Amazing! Where has society gone?
Oh and what I really love is a company CEO saying, we have to make layoffs while they drive around in their $150,000 car. Well, let me tell you, if that CEO would lop about $15,000 off his salary, maybe they would not have to make as many layoffs and many jobs could be saved. But, no can do. Because today we live in a "ME ME ME" world. Whatever happened to making sacrifices for those we love. Society has totally collapsed as we once knew it.
Don’t even get me started on the bratty kids of today. I had an unpaid internship where I started at 4am and worked until 7pm, because I wanted to learn the craft. Today, some interns ask for vacation days, want to get paid, spend half of their internship doing a resume tape. What is there to do a resume tape on if you have not even learned the craft yet?
Teachers can’t discipline kids anymore but parents blame everyone but themselves for having dysfunctional children. Hmmm.
Even sports, do you recall the Midges and the Yankees? The pesky bugs did not bother our beloved Indians. The other night, both starting pitchers worked hard on the mound for most of the game. Yankees brought in Hawkins (I think that’s who it was). He could not throw strikes, so instead of chocking it up to an off night, he complained that the mound was not ‘right.’ The Chinese fire drill began with the grounds crew coming out and sprucing up the mound. Well, the mound revamping did not help. Just face it, you had an off night!
Staying on politics, even though I despise the topic. You have Congress people, Senators, and a whole slew of folks running the country, not just the President. There has to be a vote for everything. There has to be a vote on whether someone can vote! Trust me, we don’t have the sharpest people in certain positions and frankly, I am not sure how they got there! I saw our Congresswoman in the grocery store wearing her SLIPPERS! I was mortified that somehow this woman got into office and is making decisions for my state.
Oh, I could drone on and on….maybe every single one of us should look within before placing blame.
The next step after looking within is being able to openly admit, ‘I screwed up.’ If we do not become proactive with who we are, who we want to become, and for taking responsibility of those we bring into this world, it’s our own darn fault.
Maybe every one of us should hold OURSELVES accountable and try better next time when we make a mistake before we play this jaded ‘blame game.’
No one can fess up anymore to just ‘screwing up.’ There always has to be a drawn out inquisition. And of course the people in charge of the inquisition are NEVER to blame, ever. There has to be a scapegoat (usually an innocent one!).
What I hate even more than the ‘blame game’ is politics. But no matter whether you love or hate whichever guy is president at the time, everything is NOT the President’s fault. There ARE jobs out there. I see signs everywhere for job openings. Just because someone does not want to apply for the job. Just because someone thinks the job is beneath them is NOT the President’s fault. My Mother, back in the day, had THREE jobs at once to make ends meet and take care of my sister and I. You do what you HAVE to do to live in the means where you want to live! I do not want to hear these ignorant people saying there are no jobs yet they want to waltz into a position where they have to do nothing and get paid millions.
Or better still, you see people with food stamps at the grocery store who are wearing 200 dollar tennis shoes. Or even better, people at the unemployment line driving a Lexus and wearing a thousand dollar outfit. Amazing! Where has society gone?
Oh and what I really love is a company CEO saying, we have to make layoffs while they drive around in their $150,000 car. Well, let me tell you, if that CEO would lop about $15,000 off his salary, maybe they would not have to make as many layoffs and many jobs could be saved. But, no can do. Because today we live in a "ME ME ME" world. Whatever happened to making sacrifices for those we love. Society has totally collapsed as we once knew it.
Don’t even get me started on the bratty kids of today. I had an unpaid internship where I started at 4am and worked until 7pm, because I wanted to learn the craft. Today, some interns ask for vacation days, want to get paid, spend half of their internship doing a resume tape. What is there to do a resume tape on if you have not even learned the craft yet?
Teachers can’t discipline kids anymore but parents blame everyone but themselves for having dysfunctional children. Hmmm.
Even sports, do you recall the Midges and the Yankees? The pesky bugs did not bother our beloved Indians. The other night, both starting pitchers worked hard on the mound for most of the game. Yankees brought in Hawkins (I think that’s who it was). He could not throw strikes, so instead of chocking it up to an off night, he complained that the mound was not ‘right.’ The Chinese fire drill began with the grounds crew coming out and sprucing up the mound. Well, the mound revamping did not help. Just face it, you had an off night!
Staying on politics, even though I despise the topic. You have Congress people, Senators, and a whole slew of folks running the country, not just the President. There has to be a vote for everything. There has to be a vote on whether someone can vote! Trust me, we don’t have the sharpest people in certain positions and frankly, I am not sure how they got there! I saw our Congresswoman in the grocery store wearing her SLIPPERS! I was mortified that somehow this woman got into office and is making decisions for my state.
Oh, I could drone on and on….maybe every single one of us should look within before placing blame.
The next step after looking within is being able to openly admit, ‘I screwed up.’ If we do not become proactive with who we are, who we want to become, and for taking responsibility of those we bring into this world, it’s our own darn fault.
Maybe every one of us should hold OURSELVES accountable and try better next time when we make a mistake before we play this jaded ‘blame game.’
Matchbox Twenty - How Far We've Come (video)
'Passion for the game' part 2. Keep your eyes and ears open for this song at your next Indians' Game!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Passion for the game
Apparently my passion for and knowledge of the game of baseball is a cut above the norm.
We went to Saturday's game where the Indians came back to beat the dreaded Yanks! Saturday, before the game even began, the emotional roller coaster left the gate.
The Indians have a phenomenal multi-media, video department. The videos which play before and during the game bring chills (at least to me!).
My favorite so far this year is a wonderful piece to the music of Matchbox 20's 'How far we've come' where the editor takes a look back at our young guys...and throughout the song dissolves from when our kids were in the minors to where they are today.
I do not do justice to the piece with my explanation. However, by the end of the montage, tears were streaming.
Likewise Sunday, the outcome may not have been quite as pleasant BUT the game itself was a gem! It was a great baseball game. It's unfortunate that C.C. lost because he was on fire. Likewise to Mien Wang's effort. Mom and I just enjoy watching our Indians and the game of baseball. Even if we lose, if it was a good game, we're overjoyed to have been part of the whole baseball experience!
However, as I chatted with various folks on Monday about Sunday's game, I learned that my passion is not shared by most.
If the 'W' eludes us, the game was a bust (for many).
How tragic. I feel sorry for those who can not just enjoy life, minute-by-minute, play-by-play, moment-to-moment with those around us and those we love without some payoff.
Life is too short to gauge life's success and relevance by wins or losses, final stats, a title, a rank, monetary status--only tangibles!
I've learned that it's the intangibles in life that give us the most happiness while bringing us the greatest satisfaction!
Try it some time!
We went to Saturday's game where the Indians came back to beat the dreaded Yanks! Saturday, before the game even began, the emotional roller coaster left the gate.
The Indians have a phenomenal multi-media, video department. The videos which play before and during the game bring chills (at least to me!).
My favorite so far this year is a wonderful piece to the music of Matchbox 20's 'How far we've come' where the editor takes a look back at our young guys...and throughout the song dissolves from when our kids were in the minors to where they are today.
I do not do justice to the piece with my explanation. However, by the end of the montage, tears were streaming.
Likewise Sunday, the outcome may not have been quite as pleasant BUT the game itself was a gem! It was a great baseball game. It's unfortunate that C.C. lost because he was on fire. Likewise to Mien Wang's effort. Mom and I just enjoy watching our Indians and the game of baseball. Even if we lose, if it was a good game, we're overjoyed to have been part of the whole baseball experience!
However, as I chatted with various folks on Monday about Sunday's game, I learned that my passion is not shared by most.
If the 'W' eludes us, the game was a bust (for many).
How tragic. I feel sorry for those who can not just enjoy life, minute-by-minute, play-by-play, moment-to-moment with those around us and those we love without some payoff.
Life is too short to gauge life's success and relevance by wins or losses, final stats, a title, a rank, monetary status--only tangibles!
I've learned that it's the intangibles in life that give us the most happiness while bringing us the greatest satisfaction!
Try it some time!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Jumping through hoops
This has been ten days of jumping through hoops for rampant idiocy. Raise your glasses. A toast to you all!
To nurses and major chain pharmacies who do not have on record the pain medication they prescribed even though you are holding the prescription bottle in your hot little hand.
To medical personnel who argue with you about how you are feeling.
To office assistants who do not give messages to the doctor.
To doctors who do not call with x-ray results. If they are clear, then why the throbbing pain?
To technicians who tell you dialysis went well and the next day getting a call that there IS a problem.
To more nurses who tell you, 'you’re not on the surgical procedure list' even though your Doctor told you to report to the hospital.
To ‘Breakstone’s Cottage Doubles’ for making it a single and forgetting to put the apple-cinnamon fruit in the container.
To Joe Borowski --what is there to say? You should have told Wedge and the gang you weren’t yourself before making the team hydroplane out of control.
To CC Sabathia --we’re glad you snapped out of it!
To LeBron James --the Alaskan folks are disappointed they could not spend time with you...at least they did not see you lose to the Wizards by 30+ in person.
To contractors who do a good job yet break the sink plug and forget to put the banister back up.
To folks who ‘think’ they can sing, but they can’t. To other folks who compliment the people who ‘think’ they can sing when they shouldn’t.
To folks using ‘things’ and not putting them back where they belong.
To those who think I love cleaning up caked-on cheese and egg in the sink.
To employees from all walks of life in every profession who do not 'appear' to do their job and may even get high praise for 'not' doing their job yet never 'appear' to get reprimanded--you know who you are!!!!!!
To those out there who use crude language, offensive gestures, tell off-color jokes, swear, and use pugnacious tones without giving it a second thought....oblivious of how offensive and hurtful.
To starting world war three for nicely asking a co-worker to try to get to work on time.
To the topsy turvy world we live in where someone can actually fabricate a story, blind everyone by young and innocent 'calculating' sweet talk, unjustly accuse the innocent, and get away with it...because it’s a world gone mad. Oh the beauty of it all! Hopefully, the strong will survive and will get the last laugh all the way to the bank…..Cha-Ching!
Well, if this week has not jaded us, nothing will. And IT HAS NOT!! Because frankly, I LOVE and am IN LOVE with life. I am still alive. Mother is still alive. It is Spring. It was 84 degrees today! Baseball Season is back. The Indians beat the Yankees. The Cavs are still in this thing. I fit into my old jeans. I have good friends. The Pope visited the US. And if I can’t count on anyone or anything else, I can always count on God, my religion and myself! Cheers!
To nurses and major chain pharmacies who do not have on record the pain medication they prescribed even though you are holding the prescription bottle in your hot little hand.
To medical personnel who argue with you about how you are feeling.
To office assistants who do not give messages to the doctor.
To doctors who do not call with x-ray results. If they are clear, then why the throbbing pain?
To technicians who tell you dialysis went well and the next day getting a call that there IS a problem.
To more nurses who tell you, 'you’re not on the surgical procedure list' even though your Doctor told you to report to the hospital.
To ‘Breakstone’s Cottage Doubles’ for making it a single and forgetting to put the apple-cinnamon fruit in the container.
To Joe Borowski --what is there to say? You should have told Wedge and the gang you weren’t yourself before making the team hydroplane out of control.
To CC Sabathia --we’re glad you snapped out of it!
To LeBron James --the Alaskan folks are disappointed they could not spend time with you...at least they did not see you lose to the Wizards by 30+ in person.
To contractors who do a good job yet break the sink plug and forget to put the banister back up.
To folks who ‘think’ they can sing, but they can’t. To other folks who compliment the people who ‘think’ they can sing when they shouldn’t.
To folks using ‘things’ and not putting them back where they belong.
To those who think I love cleaning up caked-on cheese and egg in the sink.
To employees from all walks of life in every profession who do not 'appear' to do their job and may even get high praise for 'not' doing their job yet never 'appear' to get reprimanded--you know who you are!!!!!!
To those out there who use crude language, offensive gestures, tell off-color jokes, swear, and use pugnacious tones without giving it a second thought....oblivious of how offensive and hurtful.
To starting world war three for nicely asking a co-worker to try to get to work on time.
To the topsy turvy world we live in where someone can actually fabricate a story, blind everyone by young and innocent 'calculating' sweet talk, unjustly accuse the innocent, and get away with it...because it’s a world gone mad. Oh the beauty of it all! Hopefully, the strong will survive and will get the last laugh all the way to the bank…..Cha-Ching!
Well, if this week has not jaded us, nothing will. And IT HAS NOT!! Because frankly, I LOVE and am IN LOVE with life. I am still alive. Mother is still alive. It is Spring. It was 84 degrees today! Baseball Season is back. The Indians beat the Yankees. The Cavs are still in this thing. I fit into my old jeans. I have good friends. The Pope visited the US. And if I can’t count on anyone or anything else, I can always count on God, my religion and myself! Cheers!
84 degrees on April 25th
I understand why we are 'going green.' I also understand the issues of global warming. But I kinda like that it registered 84 degrees on my thermometer on April 25th!
If there is a way we can stop the damage from this moment forward and still have 84 degrees on April 25th thru October or November 25th, I am all for that!
If there is a way we can stop the damage from this moment forward and still have 84 degrees on April 25th thru October or November 25th, I am all for that!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Beautiful Earth
Earth Day 2008 ushered in some absolutely beautiful weather which has continued into today.
Yesterday, the official Earth Day Celebration, could not have been better. Blue skies, chirping birds. It's nice living in a neighborhood that has a grade school. The kindergartners held class outdoors all morning learning about Earth Day. They planted a snazzy garden, watered their garden and learned about the plants that they put into their garden.
Such a treat to watch the cutest little kids carrying out their gardening tasks on a delicious day!
It's definitely days like these that make me love living in Cleveland. April 22nd and 23rd in Cleveland and we are approaching the 80 degree mark!
I don't think I could live in a place where you wear shorts while hanging Christmas lights on Palm Trees!
This is the life!
Yesterday, the official Earth Day Celebration, could not have been better. Blue skies, chirping birds. It's nice living in a neighborhood that has a grade school. The kindergartners held class outdoors all morning learning about Earth Day. They planted a snazzy garden, watered their garden and learned about the plants that they put into their garden.
Such a treat to watch the cutest little kids carrying out their gardening tasks on a delicious day!
It's definitely days like these that make me love living in Cleveland. April 22nd and 23rd in Cleveland and we are approaching the 80 degree mark!
I don't think I could live in a place where you wear shorts while hanging Christmas lights on Palm Trees!
This is the life!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Everything happens for a reason
One of my favorite mantras-- 'everything happens for a reason.'
Sitting at Church this morning in the choir loft looking out over the congregation reminded me of how this saying rings true.
Many years ago while at a co-workers wedding in PA, I visited with his sister and her, at that time, boyfriend.
Fast forward MANY years. At least 9 years if not more. My family has become very good friends with my former co-worker's sister...she lives in my neighborhood and goes to my church if that does not blow my mind enough! However, she never married 'that' boyfriend. She wound up marrying a friend of ours!
It was so odd. One St. Patrick's Day many years ago while grabbing a traditional corn beef and cabbage lunch before work, I spotted Brian and Kim. I knew Brian and I knew Kim but did not know they were a couple.
Who knew? They wound up getting engaged...married...and having 3 wonderful kids. They are great people and I am so glad we have been able to have them in our lives.
I am always amazed at scenarios such as these. They prove not only is it a very small world....but that everything DOES happen for a reason. You wind up with whom you are supposed to wind up with....living where you are supposed to be living with all the acutriments.
It also gives me a slight glimmer of hope that one day, I too, shall find the man of my dreams and so much more. I have idly sat back and watched way too many co-workers or friends find the person of their dreams, get engaged, throw a shower for them, get married, throw another shower for them, have a bunch of kids, buy their second home and groom a wonderful family while I am still just, well, just...
My nickname is "a day late and a dollar short."
I'd love to sing the national anthem at an Indians' Game. Hasn't happened yet, but I am not giving up hope.
I'd love to lose all the weight I need to lose. Hasn't happened yet, but I am not giving up hope.
The list is not endless, just a handful of things, because I have a pretty amazing life.
I do believe that this "day late and a dollar short" girl will find her 'reason.'
Sitting at Church this morning in the choir loft looking out over the congregation reminded me of how this saying rings true.
Many years ago while at a co-workers wedding in PA, I visited with his sister and her, at that time, boyfriend.
Fast forward MANY years. At least 9 years if not more. My family has become very good friends with my former co-worker's sister...she lives in my neighborhood and goes to my church if that does not blow my mind enough! However, she never married 'that' boyfriend. She wound up marrying a friend of ours!
It was so odd. One St. Patrick's Day many years ago while grabbing a traditional corn beef and cabbage lunch before work, I spotted Brian and Kim. I knew Brian and I knew Kim but did not know they were a couple.
Who knew? They wound up getting engaged...married...and having 3 wonderful kids. They are great people and I am so glad we have been able to have them in our lives.
I am always amazed at scenarios such as these. They prove not only is it a very small world....but that everything DOES happen for a reason. You wind up with whom you are supposed to wind up with....living where you are supposed to be living with all the acutriments.
It also gives me a slight glimmer of hope that one day, I too, shall find the man of my dreams and so much more. I have idly sat back and watched way too many co-workers or friends find the person of their dreams, get engaged, throw a shower for them, get married, throw another shower for them, have a bunch of kids, buy their second home and groom a wonderful family while I am still just, well, just...
My nickname is "a day late and a dollar short."
I'd love to sing the national anthem at an Indians' Game. Hasn't happened yet, but I am not giving up hope.
I'd love to lose all the weight I need to lose. Hasn't happened yet, but I am not giving up hope.
The list is not endless, just a handful of things, because I have a pretty amazing life.
I do believe that this "day late and a dollar short" girl will find her 'reason.'
Saturday, April 19, 2008
IM
Ok, so aside from posting now and then, I am rarely on the computer. I go on the computer to glance over new, IMportant business email, check facebook periodically, log onto wkyc.com for the latest news, sports, and weather and get concert tickets!
That's about it.
I do not have the tIMe or luxury or desire to sit at a computer terminal hour after hour playing games, meeting prospects on the internet, or wasting precious tIMe when I could be spending wonderful quality tIMe with Mom & friends, out in the sunlight (we ARE officially having Spring), or just enjoying life --away from the computer terminal!
So one of my least favorite things is IM. When I am in the midst of doing my business, the last thing I want popping up on my screen is an Instant Message.
I am quick, to the point, and maybe even a bit curt. The person on the other end of the IM may think--she's a bit IM-personal.
Maybe if everyone kept their computer business to a minIMum, we would not need IM's and could get back to actually visiting in person again!
That's about it.
I do not have the tIMe or luxury or desire to sit at a computer terminal hour after hour playing games, meeting prospects on the internet, or wasting precious tIMe when I could be spending wonderful quality tIMe with Mom & friends, out in the sunlight (we ARE officially having Spring), or just enjoying life --away from the computer terminal!
So one of my least favorite things is IM. When I am in the midst of doing my business, the last thing I want popping up on my screen is an Instant Message.
I am quick, to the point, and maybe even a bit curt. The person on the other end of the IM may think--she's a bit IM-personal.
Maybe if everyone kept their computer business to a minIMum, we would not need IM's and could get back to actually visiting in person again!
Why is it?
Why is it my hair looks great when I just get up in the morning?
Why is it my hair looks like a runway model's when I grab a clip and wrap it up in the clip at work, mirror-less?
Why is it my hair looks great the day after I've washed it?
Why is it my hair looks great when I am having a "play day?"
Why is it when I NEED my hair to look great, stand in front of the mirror all day trying to make my hair look great, I am in the midst of a 'bad hair day?'
Why is it my hair looks like a runway model's when I grab a clip and wrap it up in the clip at work, mirror-less?
Why is it my hair looks great the day after I've washed it?
Why is it my hair looks great when I am having a "play day?"
Why is it when I NEED my hair to look great, stand in front of the mirror all day trying to make my hair look great, I am in the midst of a 'bad hair day?'
Runaway double decker bus
Have you ever been in the midst of a 'situation' that was not a situation at all?
I found myself there this week. You just keep plugging along, doing your thing and get blind-sided by a double-decker bus.
After assessing what happened, I was right from the onset. Ya know, the world would be a much better place if folks LISTENED TO ME! Folks from family, friends, and even co-workers!
Someone I held in high standing dropped the ball, got a failing grade in my book this week. I will never take what she says at face value again.
Word to the wise, keep your eyes open for speeding, out of control, runaway double-decker buses with your name on them!
I found myself there this week. You just keep plugging along, doing your thing and get blind-sided by a double-decker bus.
After assessing what happened, I was right from the onset. Ya know, the world would be a much better place if folks LISTENED TO ME! Folks from family, friends, and even co-workers!
Someone I held in high standing dropped the ball, got a failing grade in my book this week. I will never take what she says at face value again.
Word to the wise, keep your eyes open for speeding, out of control, runaway double-decker buses with your name on them!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Happy Birthday, Pope Benedict!
Royalty has arrived. And what an honor that Pope Benedict XVI would want to spend his 81st birthday here, in the United States of America.
Many say the Catholic Church is a dying breed. Not for one moment, being a strong Catholic myself, have I ever believed that fact.
Even with the whole Cleveland Catholic Diocese "cluster" process underway and churches folding, a true testament on the strength of the Catholic Church was witnessed on the White House lawn as they had the largest group gathered ever!
Quite the fanfare for just one man. But he is a true leader. An icon. More influential than any one president or king or queen. He has influence over every single Catholic in the entire world and continues his shepherding mission every day to recruit so many more followers.
Once the special report came on, I was absolutely riveted for the next forty-five minutes. Usually, I can tear myself away from the tv. But not this time. It was ground-breaking, historical, inspirational and something Mom and I wanted to be part of.
I am very surprised every station did not carry this momentous occasion live. There were enough stations so we could experience history being made.
It seems everything that happened on site brought back special memories for us. The Knights of Columbus in full garb reminded Mom of days of yore. The Presidents Own Chorus singing 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic" reminded me of my College Choir days and when WE TOO sang that very song in the Church of the President of the United States in DC.
Pope Benedict made a few short remarks. Though short, very poignant and statements we were all taught, but many people have forgotten or refuse to live by.
The Pope is truly excited to be on this venture. He is very happy to be in the United States. He will be here for the next 6 days meeting with the United States Bishops this evening, then saying Mass at various locations such as Nationals Park, St Patrick's Cathedral, and Yankee Stadium. He will also be speaking at the UN, which should be a wonderful process to follow.
A heartwarming moment was when the congregation broke out in 'Happy Birthday' and Pope Benedict's smile warmed the entire crowd.
A wonderful time. A wonderful moment. We need more of these wonderful moments in today's times.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Everyone's gotta take their chill pills!
Life is not brain surgery. If you are a brain surgeon, ok, another story.
I consider myself to be a very upbeat, positive person. I always see the glass FULL! I want to help anyone, anywhere with anything!
Everyone has a bad day, but I rebound very nicely out of bad days. And honestly, I DON'T have bad days. I have more like bad 'minutes' or bad 'hours.'
I LOVE my home life and thoroughly enjoy going into my job every single day.
However, many folks that I have run into this week need to take their chill pills.
They take themselves WAY too seriously. They think everyone is ALWAYS focusing on them or targeting them. They think way too highly of themselves.
Trust me, in today's society, life is too short and too hectic for most folks to think of anything or anyone else than their little world.
News Flash: YOU ARE NOT THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE. THE WORLD DOES NOT REVOLVE AROUND YOU. GET UP ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BED TOMORROW AND REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR CHILL PILLS!
And in the words of Bon Jovi, "when the world gets in my face, I say, Have a Nice Day!"
I consider myself to be a very upbeat, positive person. I always see the glass FULL! I want to help anyone, anywhere with anything!
Everyone has a bad day, but I rebound very nicely out of bad days. And honestly, I DON'T have bad days. I have more like bad 'minutes' or bad 'hours.'
I LOVE my home life and thoroughly enjoy going into my job every single day.
However, many folks that I have run into this week need to take their chill pills.
They take themselves WAY too seriously. They think everyone is ALWAYS focusing on them or targeting them. They think way too highly of themselves.
Trust me, in today's society, life is too short and too hectic for most folks to think of anything or anyone else than their little world.
News Flash: YOU ARE NOT THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE. THE WORLD DOES NOT REVOLVE AROUND YOU. GET UP ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BED TOMORROW AND REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR CHILL PILLS!
And in the words of Bon Jovi, "when the world gets in my face, I say, Have a Nice Day!"
Monday, April 14, 2008
'Run for Peace' down memory lane
I keep saying, 'it's for a very good cause.' However, the weather outside makes me want to turn over and grab one more blanket! Heck, I pop up and get ready for the 3rd annual Our Lady of Peace 'Run for Peace.'
It IS for a very good cause, Our Lady of Peace Elementary School. And maybe, just maybe, it will trigger me getting back up on the 'workout horse!'
However, as I start my jog, the run becomes so much more. Seeing old parishioners who have come back to support their grade school. One group of folks reminisce about coming back every Easter and touring the neighborhood, looking at their old house as well as the houses of their friends!
We start the race at old Chaloupka's Bakery. Every Halloween, in safer times when parents did not have to accompany their children, Chaloupka's gave out free candy--the fun kind! The candy dots on paper, the wax bottles of liquid, and the candy necklaces, just to name a few!
We pass St Luke's Hospital, where Mom had many a stints...
We pass Benedictine High School, where all of my uncles and cousins attended High School and then the old St. Benedict's. I played CYO softball and every afternoon, we had practice on the black hardtop behind St Benedict's because Mr. St. John, our coach, lived right across the street! I made some pretty good friends and found out I was not a bad softball player!
Oh the memories came rushing back during the entire run making this very intense workout seem like nothing. That won't happen again, no pain, no gain!
Kudos to Kate and Clark and EVERYONE who made this year's Run for Peace a complete success!
picture #1 Sam and Colleen
picture #2 Sara, the announcer, Colleen (Mary), and the gang
picture #3 John, top row 4th from left, little angel, and the gang
OLP Christmas Pageant December, 1990
OLP Christmas Pageant December, 1990
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Stake-in-the-neighborhood
What an absolutely wonderful feeling, to be part of a ‘neighborhood.’ I guess it can happen in the bigger burbs where you walk into the Giant Eagle and see the same folks, especially if you go the same time each week. And living in your little cul-de-sac, you obviously see fellow neighbors walking their dogs and out playing with their kids.
But living in a ‘real’ Cleveland City Neighborhood --there is nothing like it!
Your little niche-- ‘oh I live in Collinwood….Ohio City…..Shaker Square…..Tremont….West Park…..Hough….’ Now, that’s city living.
Being able to walk to Church or the grocery or drug stores. Having a dry cleaner, auto body shop, pet groomer, and so much more within walking distance. The luxury of hopping on a rapid train and virtually going anywhere you want to go --the Airport, downtown, the Flats, the West Side Market, Cleveland Browns Stadium, Progressive Field, The Q.
Being able to get one of THE BEST burgers anywhere, at the little joint around the corner, The Academy, OR choose from a wide variety of top class restaurants, all in your own backyard.
Having a nostalgic Movie Theatre to visit on Saturday Nights!
YOUR lottery store is one of the top winning lottery agents AND featured in the latest Ohio Lottery commercial. I mean, they actually SHOT the commercial at your store!
Seeing folks you know anytime you drive through the neighborhood. Folks that you grew up with.
Popping into the local deli, which was there when you were a little girl and is STILL locally owned, going strong. I remember buying those little candy cane balls as a little girl at DiVita’s. I had an ice cream stand and MY STANDOUT ingredient wasn’t going to be sprinkles or whipped cream or even cherries, but adding these great little red and green candy cane balls. Well, they were a hit! But I spent more money making my special dessert than I took in!
And while at the Deli, running into Carol, your fellow choir mates, and Uncle Sam! What a treat to end the week! Being able to see someone you love on your way to work!
Oh, nothing like having your stake in your own 'hometown neighborhood!'
But living in a ‘real’ Cleveland City Neighborhood --there is nothing like it!
Your little niche-- ‘oh I live in Collinwood….Ohio City…..Shaker Square…..Tremont….West Park…..Hough….’ Now, that’s city living.
Being able to walk to Church or the grocery or drug stores. Having a dry cleaner, auto body shop, pet groomer, and so much more within walking distance. The luxury of hopping on a rapid train and virtually going anywhere you want to go --the Airport, downtown, the Flats, the West Side Market, Cleveland Browns Stadium, Progressive Field, The Q.
Being able to get one of THE BEST burgers anywhere, at the little joint around the corner, The Academy, OR choose from a wide variety of top class restaurants, all in your own backyard.
Having a nostalgic Movie Theatre to visit on Saturday Nights!
YOUR lottery store is one of the top winning lottery agents AND featured in the latest Ohio Lottery commercial. I mean, they actually SHOT the commercial at your store!
Seeing folks you know anytime you drive through the neighborhood. Folks that you grew up with.
Popping into the local deli, which was there when you were a little girl and is STILL locally owned, going strong. I remember buying those little candy cane balls as a little girl at DiVita’s. I had an ice cream stand and MY STANDOUT ingredient wasn’t going to be sprinkles or whipped cream or even cherries, but adding these great little red and green candy cane balls. Well, they were a hit! But I spent more money making my special dessert than I took in!
And while at the Deli, running into Carol, your fellow choir mates, and Uncle Sam! What a treat to end the week! Being able to see someone you love on your way to work!
Oh, nothing like having your stake in your own 'hometown neighborhood!'
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Be careful what you wish for
Many years ago after watching Melanie Griffith in 'Working Girl' and Diane Keaton in 'Baby Boom,' I said "I want to be like THEM!"
Fast forward to today. I AM like them but, at times, it is not all it is cracked up to be!
I was captivated by two beautiful females who got the good lookin' guy, could stick to their convictions and ideals, juggle everything at once and STILL be successful. They both had their own businesses and were well respected in their circles.
They never left home without their dayplanners and had every minute of the day booked up.
I have become those larger-than-life caricatures. However, is it really worth it?
Is it worth having every minute of the day timed out so that from entering the shower to being totally dressed, it takes 17 minutes flat?!?!?!
Is it worth not having time enough to plan out my lunch so I grab the ENTIRE head of lettuce and my salad spritzer in hopes that I will get a few fleeting moments at work to scarf it down?!?!?!? (good luck!)
Is it worth rotating cars each day because I don't have time to get gas in either one of them?!?!?
Yes, more than No.
I love who I am and have become. I am proud of everything I have accomplished and continue pulling out of my 'you know what!'
I do wish I had about 4 more hours in the day so I could actually take a little better care of myself. Work out? What's that?!
But, overall, I have my priorities in order, have my head on straight and do complete the top focal points of my life!
Why, oh why, couldn't I have wished for a MILLION DOLLARS and Josh Duhamel!!!!!!
Fast forward to today. I AM like them but, at times, it is not all it is cracked up to be!
I was captivated by two beautiful females who got the good lookin' guy, could stick to their convictions and ideals, juggle everything at once and STILL be successful. They both had their own businesses and were well respected in their circles.
They never left home without their dayplanners and had every minute of the day booked up.
I have become those larger-than-life caricatures. However, is it really worth it?
Is it worth having every minute of the day timed out so that from entering the shower to being totally dressed, it takes 17 minutes flat?!?!?!
Is it worth not having time enough to plan out my lunch so I grab the ENTIRE head of lettuce and my salad spritzer in hopes that I will get a few fleeting moments at work to scarf it down?!?!?!? (good luck!)
Is it worth rotating cars each day because I don't have time to get gas in either one of them?!?!?
Yes, more than No.
I love who I am and have become. I am proud of everything I have accomplished and continue pulling out of my 'you know what!'
I do wish I had about 4 more hours in the day so I could actually take a little better care of myself. Work out? What's that?!
But, overall, I have my priorities in order, have my head on straight and do complete the top focal points of my life!
Why, oh why, couldn't I have wished for a MILLION DOLLARS and Josh Duhamel!!!!!!
Skunked again
I jinxed myself. A few weeks ago I spoke of how I was in the midst of a "make it or break it week." I said they happen few and far between. I lied. I am STILL in the midst of that month long "make it or break it week!"
It has been non-stop. Do you ever feel like you are going to do something and change tasks in mid-stream because something else pops to mind...then eventually you go back to the original job and complete it. That's me. I feel, at times, like I have about 28 balls suspended up in the air and I must be ready when they all come a tumbling down.
The contractors sort of finished up. They left off a bannister which is essential back up in its original position. They left our hard wood floors in less-than-perfect condition. Just one more thing for me to add to my existing never-ending list of "to-do's!"
We've also had doctor after doctor after doctor this week which has caused me to put a bunch of things on the back-burner. These appointments have been for Mom. With me, who is way overdue for a doctor's visit--yet another daunting task to add to my list. I left my doctor when she turned into Ms Botox! Now, the nearly impossible task of wading through thousands of names to find not only a doctor on my health insurance but someone who sort of seems like they know what the heck they are doing!
Mom's whole body aches. We are waiting to hear back from her Doctor to see what this could be? We had x-rays and are just waiting for the verdict. And because she hurts, sleepless nights are the norm. One night we were up until at least 430am. Needless to say, sleep is overrated.
I've needed to drop off tickets at the Indians' box office for folks who are using our seats Friday. Every day I have gone, the barricades have been up not allowing anyone into the plaza at Progressive Field. No matter how early, I've been shut out.
What else can go awry?
Just when I thought it could not get any worse, the dumpster guys have not emptied the dumpsters (I know, if that is my biggest worry, then I am doing ok!)...however, it is funny how ONE isolated event can spur on the domino effect. We had a few bags of garbage and instead of waiting for garbage day, I was going to put them in the dumpster next door. Full to the brim. So I still gathered everything up and put them out in the garage thinking nothing would happen. Wrong! As I came home from work today, the cutest little skunk sauntered OUT of the garage feet from me. I cringed. I didn't want to do it, but I glanced back at our innocent garbage bags which had been shredded and picked. Our pet skunk had done a round of dumpster diving in our trash. Yet one more thing I never counted on but must add to my ever growing list....which when all is said and done, may be complete by 2064!
It has been non-stop. Do you ever feel like you are going to do something and change tasks in mid-stream because something else pops to mind...then eventually you go back to the original job and complete it. That's me. I feel, at times, like I have about 28 balls suspended up in the air and I must be ready when they all come a tumbling down.
The contractors sort of finished up. They left off a bannister which is essential back up in its original position. They left our hard wood floors in less-than-perfect condition. Just one more thing for me to add to my existing never-ending list of "to-do's!"
We've also had doctor after doctor after doctor this week which has caused me to put a bunch of things on the back-burner. These appointments have been for Mom. With me, who is way overdue for a doctor's visit--yet another daunting task to add to my list. I left my doctor when she turned into Ms Botox! Now, the nearly impossible task of wading through thousands of names to find not only a doctor on my health insurance but someone who sort of seems like they know what the heck they are doing!
Mom's whole body aches. We are waiting to hear back from her Doctor to see what this could be? We had x-rays and are just waiting for the verdict. And because she hurts, sleepless nights are the norm. One night we were up until at least 430am. Needless to say, sleep is overrated.
I've needed to drop off tickets at the Indians' box office for folks who are using our seats Friday. Every day I have gone, the barricades have been up not allowing anyone into the plaza at Progressive Field. No matter how early, I've been shut out.
What else can go awry?
Just when I thought it could not get any worse, the dumpster guys have not emptied the dumpsters (I know, if that is my biggest worry, then I am doing ok!)...however, it is funny how ONE isolated event can spur on the domino effect. We had a few bags of garbage and instead of waiting for garbage day, I was going to put them in the dumpster next door. Full to the brim. So I still gathered everything up and put them out in the garage thinking nothing would happen. Wrong! As I came home from work today, the cutest little skunk sauntered OUT of the garage feet from me. I cringed. I didn't want to do it, but I glanced back at our innocent garbage bags which had been shredded and picked. Our pet skunk had done a round of dumpster diving in our trash. Yet one more thing I never counted on but must add to my ever growing list....which when all is said and done, may be complete by 2064!
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Ground Hog Sunday
Our normal weekly visit to the grocery store. Buzzing around looking for essentials. We don't need much this week, which is a rare shocker. Mom in her battery-powered cart darting in and out of aisles making wide turns so as not to bring down huge corner displays, I with the old-fashioned push wheels.
I leave my vessel for only a few minutes looking for a new item all over the airwaves --come back, and poof! My cart has been hi-jacked. I search up and down every aisle thinking I surely must have misplaced its location? Not a chance. Someone had re-stocked the shelves with items from our good old-fashioned cart!?!?!?
So here I go again, deja vu, making the rounds to gather the few items I'd already fetched once before!
Fast forward a few hours later. Turbo Tax is fired. They say easier than ever! Wrong 'E-file Breath!' I followed along with the bouncing ball and lost that ball numerous times. A few times it went bouncing into the street amidst oncoming cars! Needless to say, I have finally finished- "this is my final answer" and I hope that Uncle Sam agrees and does not come knocking!
I leave my vessel for only a few minutes looking for a new item all over the airwaves --come back, and poof! My cart has been hi-jacked. I search up and down every aisle thinking I surely must have misplaced its location? Not a chance. Someone had re-stocked the shelves with items from our good old-fashioned cart!?!?!?
So here I go again, deja vu, making the rounds to gather the few items I'd already fetched once before!
Fast forward a few hours later. Turbo Tax is fired. They say easier than ever! Wrong 'E-file Breath!' I followed along with the bouncing ball and lost that ball numerous times. A few times it went bouncing into the street amidst oncoming cars! Needless to say, I have finally finished- "this is my final answer" and I hope that Uncle Sam agrees and does not come knocking!
Who'd a thunk?
Years ago, when I was playing jump rope with my best childhood friend, Joan, across from Mr. and Mrs. Lopresti's house, who'd a thunk?
When Mrs. Graf would come watch her daughter, Sue and I play CYO softball, who'd a thunk?
Living on the same street with the Jacksons, the Zuccaros, Mrs. Baucco, the Vamos family, the Allegas, and so many more, who'd a thunk?
Going to school with the Mincek kids...Mom going to school with Mercedes....Janice going to school with Chris....who'd a thunk?
Sitting in Bob's law office with bitterness oozing as we prepared my court case against the drunk driver who hit me, totalling my car just days after I paid it off....who'd a thunk?
That many years later I not only would still know all of these people, see them on a regular basis, but share my gift of music with them at every Mass.
About 5 or so years ago, I asked our organist if he would help me rehearse some music I was singing at a Hiram Alumni event...and then my niece's wedding. He was pleasantly surprised (he claims) at what he heard....and I've been belting it out as a Cantor and Choir member ever since.
It's a great honor to use this God-given gift to serve others and praise God. It's also quite the serendipity to sing for Sisters who taught me in Grade School and High School and for family and friends who never even knew I could carry a tune.
Thank you, God for this gift and every other gift given to me. I only hope, as I see your greatness on this beautiful spring day, that I can make you proud as well!
When Mrs. Graf would come watch her daughter, Sue and I play CYO softball, who'd a thunk?
Living on the same street with the Jacksons, the Zuccaros, Mrs. Baucco, the Vamos family, the Allegas, and so many more, who'd a thunk?
Going to school with the Mincek kids...Mom going to school with Mercedes....Janice going to school with Chris....who'd a thunk?
Sitting in Bob's law office with bitterness oozing as we prepared my court case against the drunk driver who hit me, totalling my car just days after I paid it off....who'd a thunk?
That many years later I not only would still know all of these people, see them on a regular basis, but share my gift of music with them at every Mass.
About 5 or so years ago, I asked our organist if he would help me rehearse some music I was singing at a Hiram Alumni event...and then my niece's wedding. He was pleasantly surprised (he claims) at what he heard....and I've been belting it out as a Cantor and Choir member ever since.
It's a great honor to use this God-given gift to serve others and praise God. It's also quite the serendipity to sing for Sisters who taught me in Grade School and High School and for family and friends who never even knew I could carry a tune.
Thank you, God for this gift and every other gift given to me. I only hope, as I see your greatness on this beautiful spring day, that I can make you proud as well!
Saturday, April 5, 2008
And we wait...and wait...
I do not have the scientific statistics, but am gonna go out on a limb and say that I have spent at least half if not 64 percent of my life "waiting."
It began before birth. Waiting to enter this world to get the party started!
And it continues many years later.
Earlier in my life, I just accepted it. Mom will be here any minute to fetch me from school....oh, my friends WILL call and tell me where to meet them....I wasted thousands and tens of thousands of hope-filled hours during the 'waiting factor.'
Today, I wait. Dominion East Ohio Gas claimed they would be here sometime between 8am and Noon. The ONLY day I have in months to sleep in, and I wait. And wait, and wait. It is 230pm and I am through waiting.
We have contractors finally finishing a project they started over TWO years ago! We wait!
For the last two weeks, I waited while our auto body shop juggled my car and Mom's car and took a bunch of money from us! That wait is over, until the next automotive emergency!
These days, for the most part, I do not acquiesce. If someone says they will call me, I don't believe them. When Mom says she is waiting for a call back from a company or a doctor or the medical insurance company, I tell her not to get her hopes up and continue whatever she is doing-- because more than likely, their "immediate call back" will come days later.
I cringe when I recount the hours I've spent waiting (and still do!) in doctors' offices with Mom, at hospitals waiting for doctors to come out of countless operating rooms with updates without substance...
I'm proud of how far I have come, how I've grown. If I have control over it, I wait for no one. Of course, you have the "no control" waits --in grocery lines, in traffic, delayed flights, restaurants, computers booting on, and those co-workers coming in to relieve you who just can't seem to synchronize their watch with the rest of the universe! I'm not sure WHY this happens, but it has happened time and again. The days I am leaving for vacation or have a long weekend, my relief is late OR NEVER EVEN SHOWS! I just have to laugh or I would cry!
I guess you get wiser with age. I've learned that some "waits" are inevitable. I take the road less traveled which is quicker. I know which restroom has the shortest wait, especially in the Terrace Club. Instead of trying to find a shorter grocery line, I wait because the line you switch to usually winds up moving at a snail's pace. I tolerate walking behind the older gentleman leaving the drug store because one day that older person will be ME and I sure hope someone will have patience with me! The smart ones don't get all hot under the collar, they utilize "the wait" time to their full advantage. Enjoy the place you are and the person you are with and just have fun while "waiting" for the next "wait."
It began before birth. Waiting to enter this world to get the party started!
And it continues many years later.
Earlier in my life, I just accepted it. Mom will be here any minute to fetch me from school....oh, my friends WILL call and tell me where to meet them....I wasted thousands and tens of thousands of hope-filled hours during the 'waiting factor.'
Today, I wait. Dominion East Ohio Gas claimed they would be here sometime between 8am and Noon. The ONLY day I have in months to sleep in, and I wait. And wait, and wait. It is 230pm and I am through waiting.
We have contractors finally finishing a project they started over TWO years ago! We wait!
For the last two weeks, I waited while our auto body shop juggled my car and Mom's car and took a bunch of money from us! That wait is over, until the next automotive emergency!
These days, for the most part, I do not acquiesce. If someone says they will call me, I don't believe them. When Mom says she is waiting for a call back from a company or a doctor or the medical insurance company, I tell her not to get her hopes up and continue whatever she is doing-- because more than likely, their "immediate call back" will come days later.
I cringe when I recount the hours I've spent waiting (and still do!) in doctors' offices with Mom, at hospitals waiting for doctors to come out of countless operating rooms with updates without substance...
I'm proud of how far I have come, how I've grown. If I have control over it, I wait for no one. Of course, you have the "no control" waits --in grocery lines, in traffic, delayed flights, restaurants, computers booting on, and those co-workers coming in to relieve you who just can't seem to synchronize their watch with the rest of the universe! I'm not sure WHY this happens, but it has happened time and again. The days I am leaving for vacation or have a long weekend, my relief is late OR NEVER EVEN SHOWS! I just have to laugh or I would cry!
I guess you get wiser with age. I've learned that some "waits" are inevitable. I take the road less traveled which is quicker. I know which restroom has the shortest wait, especially in the Terrace Club. Instead of trying to find a shorter grocery line, I wait because the line you switch to usually winds up moving at a snail's pace. I tolerate walking behind the older gentleman leaving the drug store because one day that older person will be ME and I sure hope someone will have patience with me! The smart ones don't get all hot under the collar, they utilize "the wait" time to their full advantage. Enjoy the place you are and the person you are with and just have fun while "waiting" for the next "wait."
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
The Mighty Casey
The boys are back in town, and once again, life revs up to full speed ahead!
This time of year truly kicks off one of the best cycles of the twelve months! January and the beginning of February are times of withdrawal, yet a time of rest, and then a time to organize and prepare for the season ahead!
Then, POW! Spring Training....NBA heats up toward the playoffs.....March Madness.....Lent and the whole Easter holiday season.....NHL in the thick of things......and now, OPENING DAY!
To many it is just another day. To those true baseball fans, true Indians fans, and true to the City of Cleveland, it is when the spirit is revitalized, the heart beats stronger.
This 'event' catapults us straight into Spring, regardless of what the actual temperature reads on the thermometer.
I could not imagine NOT being at Progressive Field with Mom and close friends to usher in another year of excitement, breathtaking acrobatics, contests of strength and the utmost control.
Once we get there, we see our 'extended' Progressive Field Family that we live and die with for 162 (or hopefully 181) games.
It's like we never skipped a beat....Mary Jo and 'D' as gracious as ever. We're home.
The fan fare, the public address announcer (what a gem of a human being) announces the players to deafening cheers from adoring fans. The volunteers unfurl one of the largest flags while the color guard makes their way to the center of the field. The first pitch and 'Star Spangled Banner' participants make their way to their posts. Players continue signing autographs for the lil tikes up until game time. You can not take it all in with dozens of sidebar one-act plays carrying on all around.
When you realize what is happening, tears of joy stream uncontrollably.
All 42,000+ people have their own story to tell and they are telling them all at the very same time! It's like the buzz of a humming bird filling the ballpark.
The umpire says 'play ball' and there is no looking back. We're on this ride 'til the C-Train stops and we hope it don't stop 'til we see the promised land!
Every single player who comes up is your favorite. You know a little personal nugget about each one of them--where they hit, the song that ushers them in, anticipate their every move.
You cheer even louder for the guys on your fantasy baseball team. And when one of them wins the game, high fives for everyone!
What makes this team great, there is not one standout star. They are all stars. There is a different hero every single night helping this team win.
Pinch me, it's like a dream come true: Opening Day 2008, sold out house, sunny skies, surrounded by those you love, winning in the late innings with nail biting antics 10 to 8 over the dreaded Chicago White Sox and Jim Thome.
And it just so happened that tonight, my true favorite player, Casey shined the brightest for all to see!
This time of year truly kicks off one of the best cycles of the twelve months! January and the beginning of February are times of withdrawal, yet a time of rest, and then a time to organize and prepare for the season ahead!
Then, POW! Spring Training....NBA heats up toward the playoffs.....March Madness.....Lent and the whole Easter holiday season.....NHL in the thick of things......and now, OPENING DAY!
To many it is just another day. To those true baseball fans, true Indians fans, and true to the City of Cleveland, it is when the spirit is revitalized, the heart beats stronger.
This 'event' catapults us straight into Spring, regardless of what the actual temperature reads on the thermometer.
I could not imagine NOT being at Progressive Field with Mom and close friends to usher in another year of excitement, breathtaking acrobatics, contests of strength and the utmost control.
Once we get there, we see our 'extended' Progressive Field Family that we live and die with for 162 (or hopefully 181) games.
It's like we never skipped a beat....Mary Jo and 'D' as gracious as ever. We're home.
The fan fare, the public address announcer (what a gem of a human being) announces the players to deafening cheers from adoring fans. The volunteers unfurl one of the largest flags while the color guard makes their way to the center of the field. The first pitch and 'Star Spangled Banner' participants make their way to their posts. Players continue signing autographs for the lil tikes up until game time. You can not take it all in with dozens of sidebar one-act plays carrying on all around.
When you realize what is happening, tears of joy stream uncontrollably.
All 42,000+ people have their own story to tell and they are telling them all at the very same time! It's like the buzz of a humming bird filling the ballpark.
The umpire says 'play ball' and there is no looking back. We're on this ride 'til the C-Train stops and we hope it don't stop 'til we see the promised land!
Every single player who comes up is your favorite. You know a little personal nugget about each one of them--where they hit, the song that ushers them in, anticipate their every move.
You cheer even louder for the guys on your fantasy baseball team. And when one of them wins the game, high fives for everyone!
What makes this team great, there is not one standout star. They are all stars. There is a different hero every single night helping this team win.
Pinch me, it's like a dream come true: Opening Day 2008, sold out house, sunny skies, surrounded by those you love, winning in the late innings with nail biting antics 10 to 8 over the dreaded Chicago White Sox and Jim Thome.
And it just so happened that tonight, my true favorite player, Casey shined the brightest for all to see!
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