5 games plus Jim Thome: Pinch me!

I'm determined to get my life back on track, take care of me, and continue scratching duties off of my overwhelming 'to do' list.

It was an amazing beginning....the hard part will be continuing on the straight and narrow.

Out of the goodness of his heart, a dear friend who used to help me with Mom has taken on the task of being my personal trainer. He's absolutely awesome! I worked out with him all week long...and am back down below what I weighed when I turned 40 years old. I've made such great strides I never ever want to ever find myself back where I was -- which is 40+ pounds heavier.

Not only have I revved up the workout schedule, but I saw five Indians' games last week, including the return of the beloved Jim Thome! Two weeks ago, I'd never have believed that I was so into my workout schedule and that Thome would be an Indian again.

I guess miracles can happen and anything is possible.

The day that boosted me over the top was the day-night double header. Walking back and forth from Progressive Field is an amazing workout in itself. Walking back and forth 4 times in one day with a rigorous hour long workout in between just blew my mind, but I did it and felt so pumped up at the end of the day, not to mention, I caught a foul ball at the first Indians' game --that REALLY revved me up!

Let's try and keep this streak going.....not only the baseball streak but the workout as well as organizing a pretty messy life which is a great life, but in total chaos at this very moment! :)

We need more cowbell in the rain!

The last week has been one I'd never ever imagined, concocted, or even scripted in a dream in a million years!

Just the simple fact that I have a new text buddy who, most of the time is amazing.....yes, we've had a few rough spots but always seem to get back on track.

I had a schedule change due to vacations. A very nice change of pace! And honestly it seemed I was at the station MORE because of it as I would work, work out and then hit the Tribe game! Going to the Indians' games has become beneficial to my health as well as a great source of pleasure! I park at my office and walk over to Progressive Field. Those days I get a workout in, BONUS! The days I don't, I still get a nice downtown walk going!

One of the days I worked I totally overslept! I NEVER do that. I jokingly the day before told my relief to call me if I wasn't in at a certain time....sure enough, I jinxed myself. I got up 18 minutes before I was supposed to be at work! I called him and said, dude, I'm up but I may be a few minutes late!

God was truly on my side. I threw on an amazing outfit, gathered my lunch, and headed to work. I made EVERY SINGLE LIGHT! I was not speeding but it was a different shift than I normally work and the light pattern had changed. I got to work only a few minutes late and knew that I owed God a HUGE HUGE favor!

And then it was the Feast of the Assumption weekend! A family tradition! Sunday I went to the Indians' game which wound up being rained out and postponed. Even in a delay, I had the most delicious time at the ballpark. We played a few innings--David Huff was pitching a doozy! Then the skies opened. So I ventured up to the Terrace Club and just sat in my place on the floor watching other MLB games! 1/2 way through the delay, the most delightful little boy and his father came over to sit by me. He was a doll! We had the best conversation about beginning school and his lunch breaks at school....and how the administrators are quite annoying with how they quiet people down and get attention. It was absolutely awesome! He shared his fishy crackers with me and then when the couch opened, offered me a seat next to him on the couch!

He really was a doll and reminded me of my friend's adorable little boy, who hopefully one day I will meet.

Finally, they called the game and off I went to change for the Feast of the Assumption. I was NOT going to pass this up.

There may be a little rain in the air but it's tradition. I needed to get my Italian food fix on and light the candles we light every single year at Holy Rosary church!

I changed and headed down to Little Italy. I was meant to be there! It all came together! I was supposed to meet two friends but they got chased away by the rain. I wound up seeing my sports producer and his friend! Then I saw an old colleague, Commander Tom Stacho. I did my normal walk around and taste and squirrel away food to take home plus I grabbed some to give to my Aunt when I saw her at mass the following day....

But my highlight, besides lighting the candles and saying a little prayer, was visiting my friend's fried dough stand! ALWAYS a delight! And this year just made my week!

In the meantime, my new pal and I had been texting back and forth.....it was nice. But I was on a mission and he was going to have to wait. Especially after the skies opened again.....one downpour and I put up the umbrella. It lasted about 5 minutes and away the umbrella went! I went to Michael's stand and saw he and his lovely wife and children. After talking just a few minutes the skies opened yet again...but this was furious and would last longer. So he ushered me under his stand to safety and we all talked, shared memories, caught up, feasted on fried dough and made new wonderful memories.

At one point, it was apparent the rains would not be stopping for a while so the band in the center of the venue started playing to entertain those stranded.....and that's when the fun really began. A stand two down from Michael's had all of these instruments --cow bells, horns, tambourines, anything you could imagine. They started doling them out, passing them down so that everyone could play along with the band! It was magnificent. The kids had the most fun of course! This vivid image that will last with me forever IS truly what makes new memories --surrounded by friends, family, tradition, and the guts to live life to the fullest and make lemonade when you are handed lemons!

Ervin Santana's no-hitter

I can't believe I witnessed a no-hitter. Pumped!


Just as unbelievable as the reception when I arrived into work.... everyone expected me to walk in wearing black mourning the no-hitter just pitched against my Cleveland Indians! When they saw my eyes beaming and heard me talking a mile a minute so excited, jaws dropped to the ground.

I tried explaining that when you go to the ballpark, if you see that your team is not going to win, the next best thing is witnessing history. That my friends is what happened on July 27, 2011 as The Los Angeles Angels' RHP Ervin Santana pitched his 1st no-hitter. Now, ironically, the Indians DID score a run but got no hits. Quite the exciting game (though UGLY for my Tribe with 5 errors). David Huff pitched yet another gem with nothing to show for it except a loss. I was 1 of 21,546 fans to experience a historical sports moment. Would not trade it for the world, even though the Indians came out on the short end.

Just a superb day at the ballpark all around! And when the 9th inning hit, the fans left, myself included, began cheering for Ervin Santana to successfully achieve this great feat.

I can not put into words how exciting it was to be in the ballpark to see, feel, smell, and take in the vibe being doled out about what was about to happen. As a true baseball fan, the excitement brought chills up and down my spine. You know when a truly great moment is about to occur, and sure enough, it did!

Congratulations Ervin Santana! I'm sorry you pitched the game against my Indians but I am very blessed and lucky to have experienced baseball history in the making!

Exciting few weeks

How could I ask for anything more? Summers in Cleveland never disappoint. The last few weeks my Cleveland Indians have been up and down but still very exciting! How can you beat 'beating' the dreaded Yankees, then Carlos Carrasco dueling CC Sabathia, Pronk's walk-off come back win all heading into the All-Star Break where Cleveland's representation consists of Asdrubal Cabrera, Chris Perez and Manny Acta.

I was fortunate to experience a dear friend's very first ballgame at Progressive Field and trip to the Terrace Club for girls' night out!

On the man front, an unprecedented summer like no other, though absolutely nothing has panned out yet.

In the movie, "Pretty Woman," there was a scene where the twins were speaking of Edward's 'flavor of the month.' Ironically, it seems there have been different boys stepping up to the plate each month....May had a charming boy-next-door suitor who still remains a friend....June brought a social media pal, who again, still remains a friend. July just brought an unsuspecting charming friend who I met at a station party in a bar of all places, and I instantly fell for his smooth lines. I violated many of my rules, one being never meet anyone in a bar! I could not resist. Where will this go? Who knows, but all my friends say just have fun and savor each moment.

My mystery man tossed me a line like I've never heard before charming me to no end. We have
a mutual friend so when I thought he left without saying goodbye, I still had a glimmer of hope knowing both of us could track each other down through our mutual friend. And sure enough, I received an email from my mystery man ....which started this unsuspecting rollercoaster ride leading who knows where?!????! I've seen my mystery man a few times already. Fingers crossed.

On the home front, very proud that I am finally crossing a few things off of my 'to do' list including important doctor appointments.....for the first time in a long time I feel as if I am catapulting the highest mountains....with an uneasy background feeling of 'what if' waiting for all of my test results. What will be will be.


Finally, wrapping up this whirlwind stretch at the "Taste of Tremont." What a tremendous festival. If you've never been before, please go next year.... you will sample the greatest fare of foodstuffs, adult beverages and music like no other. This street fair a small slice of the pie encompassing what happens in Cleveland, Ohio all summer long. It's a great place to live. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in the world!

Nothing better than beating the Yanks!

Independence Day 2011!

There is absolutely nothing more American than baseball! After an excellent 4th with the family eating, laughing, relaxing, playing with the pups, and just spending quality time with those I care for freely doing what I love in this great country I adore, on to the ballpark!

A fantastic match up: The New York Yankees against my Cleveland Indians! Josh Tomlin battling A.J. Burnett. SS Derek Jeter in the midst of his quest for his 3K hit! Would it happen here? Could it happen here? Anything is possible. We are in the United States of America, and it is Independence Day.

What an amazing evening at the ballpark! A fantastic sold out game surrounded by Cleveland AND New York fans. Cleveland and the Indians really put on a great show for all of our visitors. Be proud C-Town! The pre-game festivities moving for the 4th....and the fireworks shows at Progressive Field are THE absolute best you've ever seen around!

My Indians did not disappoint. A tremendous game to take in and feel proud about being not only an American, but a Clevelander and Cleveland Indians' fan. The scrappy boys played hard and strong. Austin Kearns hit his very 1st homer of the season to put the Indians ahead and they kept tacking them on to beat the Yankees 6-3 ultimately. Derek Jeter just back from the DL and went 0-4. Yes, I cheered him back as did the 40,000+ fans who flashed their cameras everytime he came up to the plate.

Carlos Santana's homer in the 8th sealed the deal. Josh Tomlin pitched a fantastic game. He became the ONLY pitcher in MLB to pitch at least 5.0 innings in each of his first 29 career appearances --since 1919! Tomlin went 7 innings then enter: The Bullpen Mafia! Tony Sipp, Vinnie 'boom bah' Pestano and Chris Perez entered the game and held it for their buddy Josh Tomlin.

I am a true baseball fan. I enjoy watching Major League Baseball (and minor league baseball too). I see talent for what it is worth. If a member of the opposing team makes a great play, I'll clap and give kudos where it's due. The Indians are my boys, but yes, I think I may have a favorite player on every team. The New York Yankees are a talented team. Some of you may say that is absurd, of course they are one of the best. Well, they are good. The New York Yankees get calls they should not because they are the Yanks. They make their share of mistakes. And I can not believe how arrogant A-Rod is strutting around his spot at 3rd base. I'm not a fan. Yes, I do like Jeter, Teixeria, Posada, and other dreaded Yanks.

I don't know what it is but even though winning is always accompanied by a tremendous feeling, beating the New York Yankees has it's own special feeling. You've not experienced that feeling of sheer ecstasy and satisfaction until you've sat in the stands at Progressive Field and watched the Indians pummel the Yankees or just win by one. It's a feeling like no other with any other team (except maybe the Red Sox) where you want to scream at the top of your lungs and party all night long after a win.

Yes, Independence Day 2011 brought that feeling to all Cleveland Indians' fans past and present. You feel like hugging everyone you come in contact with while wanting to just jump out of your skin and float on cloud 9. It's truly a phenomenal feeling that you never want to release. For the moment, after seeing the Indians beat the Yankees and one of THE best Cleveland fireworks shows ever, it is time to savor this feeling. I wish I could bottle it.

Sitting out in the open air watching my favorite sport & my favorite team on the 4th of July epitomizes what it means to be an American to me. I thank my forefathers from the bottom of my heart allowing me to be at this point where I can be me, say what I want, do what I enjoy, have hobbies and passions that bring tears of joy to my eyes knowing that no one can take any of this away from me.

Thank you, I love you, I have no idea how to pay you great forefathers back except to try and live the life you began and emulate you all as best as I can standing up for this great country and her ideals while keeping the definition of freedom ringing loudly!

I just broke my own rule

I went against everything I've been preaching for years. Do NOT talk to strangers. Do NOT meet people online. Sheesh.

Social media sure makes it hard to follow my rules. But it sure is fun and makes life more interesting! I made an exception to my rule that I don't accept Facebook friends I don't know in any way, shape, or form. Last week one of my fellow tweeters began a conversation with me about my Indians. I'm especially careful on Twitter since pretty much anyone can follow you and your whereabouts, definitely not as secure as Facebook or LinkedIn. But, I enjoy reading his articles and he mirrors my enthusiasm and love of the game of baseball so I threw caution to the wind. He friended me on Facebook and I friended him back.

We really did hit it off and have been chatting and talking Tribe for the last week. On day #4 of my fantastic vacation I was supposed to meet my new Twitter and Facebook friend at the Indians-Rockies game, the SAME day I was named the Season Ticket Holder Fan of the Game. Fan of the game meant I got a new Indians hat, I was up on the Jumbotron waving like a dork while they announced me and I was supposed to get some Indians extra bucks, which I never received :( Things just seemed to get better and better this week. Or did they? I should have known that there would probably be a slight snag somewhere along the way. Oh, I hit it! I met my new baseball friend but unfortunately did not get to spend as much time as first thought.

The game was good....meeting my new friend extraordinary....and I was doing what I live for --watching my boys out in the beautiful Cleveland summer enjoying my favorite sport!

Can't ask for much more! I've made a new friend (you can never have enough friends!) whose love of and passion for this great game parallels mine! Hopefully, my new found friend and I can talk baseball for a longtime to come....

Yes, my terrific vacation does keep rolling along..... :)

Jimmy, I have a message from Bob Costas!

You have got to be kidding me!

I must be the luckiest girl alive. My vacations always rule --totally epic. This one no exception! 2 of my dearest girlfriends and I hit the Indians' game....starting with a nice dinner up in the Terrace Club at Progressive Field! We had so much to catch up on and as we gabbed, a familiar man walked by. I quietly said, trying not to move, 'Is that who I think it is?' First of all, I have no idea why I was whispering in this paralyzed state. 2nd of all, my girlfriend said, 'don't make any sharp movements, yes it is.'

NBC Sports guru Bob Costas had just walked into the Terrace Club. I know a number of the staffers so we asked WHY he was in town? Apparently he has a group of friends who live in Cleveland who he visits a few times a year. When Costas realized there was a game going on, he thought it would be cool to have dinner at the ballpark and take in the game. And, I'm sure no one says NO to Bob Costas!

We still gabbed and caught up. I had my back to the man so my other 2 friends were on 'Bob Costas Watch!' Finally, he rose and was exiting the TC. My friend nicely asked if he'd mind taking a picture with us. Costas, quite gracious and soft spoken agreed. This was probably my one and only chance of ever seeing and speaking with this sports broadcasting icon. So, I put the usual 'shy Danielle' away for the next few minutes. I mustered up enough gumption to introduce myself and tell him where I work. You see, believe it or not, Bob Costas and I have a mutual friend. I know it's very hard to believe. But we do. The 1st words out of his mouth were asking about our mutual friend. I gave Bob the update on our friend, who is currently in the hospital....he was so kind and asked me to relay get well wishes to our friend.

Don't get me wrong. Meeting Bob Costas was quite the thrill. And I have a picture to prove it! But the bigger thrill for me was texting my friend with Costas get well message as soon as Mr. Costas walked out of view.

My friend was shocked. Not so much at the greeting but that we had actually run into Bob Costas at the Indians' game and had the chance and guts to speak with him. And my pal was very thankful for the text and well wishes.

The rest of the night & game with my 2 friends absolutely tremendous --making many new memories!

And friends, yes, I am batting 1.000 on this magical vacation so far. Let's keep it going....

Always have a deck of UNO cards in the loge

Day two of vacation and the task at hand was to top day one. I never say never but I knew it was going to be nearly impossible! No, not impossible. We had a fighting chance as my family had the opportunity to enjoy the Indians' game from a loge. I've been quite lucky and blessed through the years to have sporadic opportunities to enjoy my favorite sport, my all-time favorite team from the confines of a loge, or even one time, from the field boxes. Now that was a tremendous experience for Mom, me and our family!

And, sure enough! We topped day #1 of vacation! First, just having the entire family together (except my nephew, but he has enjoyed a loge before!) was quite an experience! We all like baseball. The kids used to go to the games more with Mom and I when they were younger, but I know deep down inside they will always cherish this game, the Cleveland Indians' memories we made through the years and have a special place in their hearts for our Tribe!

It was just a beautiful day --well, until the rain delay! More to come on that!

The Pittsburgh Pirates were in town, a national league treat we don't see very often. And honestly, whenever my family gets together, there is an abundance of laughing, everyone talking at once, and feasting on delicious food!

So, the game was cruising along.....and then the clouds opened and we were in the midst of about an hour rain delay. Now, let's get this straight. We are in a loge. We did not have to scramble up the stairs to dry land. We had sufficient quantities of foodstuffs. We were surrounded by family and friends. The Indians were playing other baseball games on the huge scoreboard. And, most importantly, Sara brought -- The UNO cards! For the next hour or so, an entertaining display of who possessed the best UNO skills and ruled the roost!

In the midst of our UNO marathon, every so often, a radar check on everyone's smart phones. Yes. When the smart phone showed a clearing, our faithful grounds crew scampered out and started removing the tarp to loud cheers!

Our boys were playing baseball in no time....

Boy, did we get our money's worth! Not only did we sit through a rain delay, extra innings my friends! But wait, there's soooo much more.

With 2 on in the 11th inning, rookie Cord Phelps (who I'd just met the day before at batting practice) steps up to the plate and hits a walk-off homerun. His 1st homer to win the game! The Indians beat the Pirates 5-2 in 11 innings.

Yes, day #2 certainly topped vacation day #1. Can I keep the streak alive?

Batting practice from the field, really?

How does this happen to me? There are so many parallels in my life yet the experiences are miles apart. 1 year ago on day #1 of my vacation, I had a friend in from out of town. He 'pooped' out early & I was determined not to let day #1 of my vacation fizzle out. I called another buddy of mine, who unfortunately has since moved to Chicago. He invited me to a party and day #1 of vacation 1 year ago ruled. I kept thinking 'how in the world will I continue to top the 1st days of my vacation?'

Fast forward to 1 year later, today. The out of this world experiences so new, fresh and different from a year ago, but the sentiment remains: "What is going on and how in the world will I ever top the 'awesomeness' of the start of this vacation?"

On day #1 I traveled to my college alma mater and shared lunch with so many outstanding people I'd not seen in months and even years. Not one second of the experience bad. I love the trek to my alma mater driving the open roads--so close to the city yet far enough away to be considered 'God's country.' A beautiful day with the sun's rays dancing on the roadway. Once I get to a certain point, I'm able to pick up HOT 101 out of Youngstown and jam the entire way to the chosen land! All the memories come streaming back each inch, each landmark, each milemarker I pass. Our meeting place chock full of memories including the world famous Freddy burger, which is a given if ever in G-Ville! I so did not want to leave these peeps. Normally, I'd dance the night away with all of them. Believe it or not, I had to tear myself away from this part of my memory making day to head to yet another unbelieveable once in a lifetime adventure.

When it rains, it pours. Everything stacks up on the same day or weekend.

My peaceful ride back to the city kept my dream weekend flowing along....again jamming to HOT 101 (until my border where it just became a fuzzy static jumble).

Next stop: Cleveland Indians batting practice -- from the field! Are you kidding me?

I was given a wonderful opportunity for myself and 2 friends to watch batting practice from the field --Indians batting practice! I met my 2 pals Meghan and Loren at the media gate where about 20 other folks were given the same opportunity! We waited. The wait seemed so much longer than it really was anticipating what was about to happen. Yes, we were escorted down to the field right behind home plate to watch my boys take their swings and field their positions. Absolutely ridiculous. I had to keep pinching myself.

Now, doing what I do for a living, we all know that you can not go on the grass. That is a no-no. The Cleveland Indians' grounds crew takes great pride in their masterpiece. When the PR women gave us two rules, of course one of them was 'do not step on the grass!' I just busted up laughing and gave my friends the long history of how long we've been told 'not to step on the grass!' The other rule was 'do not distract the ballplayers.' Ha! I think the ballplayers should be given a set of rules as well. Many of them were happy to have fans down there to flex their muscles to --fans who were beaming from cheek to cheek watching their heroes. They'd give us glances, smiles, as we had to keep a heads up for the periodic balls that would come rolling or flying our way from the players.

Honestly, this swirling dream simply too good to be true. We all received batting practice t-shirts, and were able to get our pictures with 2 of my fave players: Cord Phelps and Jack Hannahan and the skipper, Manny Acta. Then my friends and I, of course, got a picture of the three of us as proof to our whereabouts Saturday afternoon! All the heavy hitters were out there with us (except Pronk). My jaw was touching the field (but not the grass) as my eyes wandered from player to player to player and we just took it all in.

Trevor Crowe, currently on the DL, looks like he's coming along. He had family or friends down there. It was kind of funny. The people he was with wanted him to sign their jersey in Silver. It had to be in Silver. So of course, the PR woman being prepared tossed him a Silver pen. While he signed, his family asked my friend to hold their designer purse and they made sure they joked "don't steal anything!" This kind of stuff just doesn't happen in my everyday real life.

I recently made a very nice new friend via social media. While we were there, he texted me asking if I was heading to the game. I texted him, "are you kidding, I am already here just waiting to watch batting practice from the field.' I was beaming! The entire experience from start to finish simply perfect. Batting practice to the game to a post game concert with performances by Donnie Iris and the Cruisers (in honor of the Pittsburgh Pirates) and then Cleveland's hometown favorite Michael Stanley and the Resonators (in honor of my Cleveland Indians).

At the end of the night, it was hard for me to come back down to earth after a magical day.

And again, I asked myself, 'How in the world will I be able to top any other days of my vacation?'

Opening Day Weekend 2011

I adore the game of baseball.

I get that cherished gift & interest from my Mom. She bestowed that gem on our entire family. She received the gift from her father, my Grampa, who my Aunt says took them to see the Indians when they were all just small kids. In fact, Auntie has some of the fondest memories of her dad taking her to a ballgame, and getting -- a hot dog. Having a ballpark hotdog with authentic baseball mustard watching a game with her Dad = priceless.

To the normal fan it's a game, maybe a day off of work, a time to share a few beers with friends. To me, it's so much more.

On Opening Day, the memories come gushing back spanning my entire life --baseball memories I've collected over the years with Mom, my sister, Aunt, and the kids which will be with me forever. We have thousands and thousands.

I truly enjoy the game of baseball. Oh yes, there is nothing like winning baseball from your favorite team but I'll support them rain or shine, win or lose. I was part of the smallest crowds the Indians had Opening Day weekend 2011. It didn't matter because the weather was beautiful, baseball is back for the next 7 months, and I saw progress and hope in the current players taking the field. The Indians have always had scrappers. Guys who come to play with their A-game. They give their all, no matter the outcome.

The normal 'joe' fan looks at the daily paper and sees the final score. That's no way to watch or follow baseball. Watching every intricate play tells the story. Even in a loss, you can see how hard the guys played, glean the many bright spots, and still gain pleasure from our National Pasttime.

Opening Day Weekend 2011 brought old memories back to life and formed new ones.

The entire weekend began with a memorial service for the best pitcher in baseball, Bob Feller, who recently passed away. What a tribute. It was a beautiful memorial service recalling many memories. Though many of today's pitchers are quite talented, I believe we coddle them too much. There is absolutely no comparison to the pitchers of Bob Feller's time and today. Those pitchers way back when played for love of the game. They made no money. They had to get real jobs in the off-season, which kept them strong and tone. They could pitch a complete game and the next day be called upon again to pitch another one. None of this "You can only pitch 102 pitches and then I am taking you out no matter how well you are still pitching!"

Bob Feller also sacrificed his career in baseball for the greater good of his country, which he loved so much....and while serving his country, put his life in harms way every day he was in the military. He is proof positive that if you do the right thing and stick to your beliefs and passions, it all works out.

Then Opening Day weekend 2011 against one of our hardest opponents, the Chicago White Sox. On the bright side, our old friend Omar Vizquel buzzed back into town. I would love to see Omar come back to play or better still to coach one day. He always claims he has a special place in his heart for Cleveland and Clevelanders.

Besides the outcome, everything else was near perfection. Pre-game festivities honoring Bob Feller chilling. 3 huge banners were hung on the center field wall. Every single player wore the #19 jersey for pre-game and introductions. Then Mrs. Feller placing a baseball on the pitcher's mound for the silent 1st pitch. And then the balloon launch as we screamed 'play ball!'

I adore the videos the Indians' play on the scoreboard --they always move me. 2011 will not disappoint. So far, the videos have been tremendous...and yes, the tears came streaming down.

I was at the game with 2 friends who get it. They love the game of baseball as much as I do. 1 of them I consider to be one of my dearest friends in the whole wide world....the other person is a friend I've reconnected with on fb after oh, maybe 15 or so years. I could not have asked to be at opening day with 2 better people who realize the pureness of this game.

Of course, Mom was with us in spirit....and will always be at every single game with me. I firmly believe that she is the Indians' biggest guardian angel. They may not have gone far last year, but things are looking up.

Good friends all know my passion for the sport and how important this game is to me. I received text messages and facebook messages all day and night long wishing me 'happy opening day,' 'I know this is like a holiday to you, have fun,' and other gleeful salutations!

Another dear friend moved away in the beginning of the year. I must admit, I was a bit bitter for a smidge of time. And I do so miss him soooo but I will not let this season go by without keeping in close proximity with him to talk, message, text baseball week in, week out!

Even though the Indians lost the official opening day game, I did not feel bad. I had just seen a major league baseball game outside in the open air under beautiful weather with 2 good friends. I'd seen an exciting game from both teams. That's how I roll. I don't feel bad anymore. I know how blessed I am to be able to watch this game and enjoy every single pitch.

The Indians wound up losing their 2nd game but pulled out a huge win on Sunday. Both games were quite exciting. At least, I had a blast both days. I saw very good friends at all of the games....enjoyed balmy temps.....and can't believe how lucky I am to be able to watch my favorite team play my favorite sport.

I have a really good feeling about this team. Most people admit there are so many players they have never heard of, don't recognize, don't know where they came from.....I am proud to say I not only know the players, recognize them when I see them, know what position they play and their numbers. When you follow a team and their minor league teams, you follow the entire team. It's like watching a child born and follow their progression through teenage years into adult hood. I absolutely adore everyone from the veterans to the youngsters to the newer players we recently acquired.

I admit, I'm nowhere close to enjoying the game like Mom. She'd amaze me game after game as she totally remembered a player's stats without looking up at the big score board....she'd remember what they did last game....and in the entire series. She knew every pitch every player threw...if he was a ground ball pitcher or flyball pitcher. I adored my Mother in every way for who she was and what she instilled in me...not only with the game of baseball but life in general.

I'm no Marianne, but no one is or ever will be. I am striving to be like her and put the same passion into the game (of baseball & the game we call life) as I hope to get as much enjoyment out of both!

The final home game of the 2010 season

I can honestly say in convincing fashion, I am not bad luck for 'my' Cleveland Indians!

For a fleeting moment, I thought I was....but after attending the last 7 games in a row and winning the last 6, I'm off the hook!

What a ride! What a whirlwind!

The last week has been surreal with a number of '1sts,' memorable moments, emotional events on and off the field, and downright fun!

Spending the 1st part of my week off with my best friend started the ball rolling.

And all week with 'my' Cleveland Indians --pinch me!

Mom IS channeling through me as each day goes by and I get even more love for the Tribe, skyrocketing interest which I never knew was possible, and such joy from watching them day in and day out.

However, the season is winding down and that sadness approaches.

I know I have one more month of baseball --and it should prove to be the most exciting baseball of the season, but 'my' Indians will not be part of it.

This is the time of the year when I don't get too down because I know once the World Series ends, we have the holidays, and then January to catch up and get everything done before Spring Training revs up. Yes, I said it. January is my 'get into gear baby' because pitchers and catchers report mid February! Whew hoo!

Fitting and wild that the final home game turned into a traditional double header.

The weather was beautiful --no coat, nothing needed!

I hit both games my friends and they were magnificent.

I've seen a bunch of firsts this week including Luke Carlin's 1st homer as an Indian and Vinnie Pestano's 1st MLB save.

But toward the middle of the 2nd game, it all started hitting me. I went through this entire season without Mom physically sitting next to me, though I know she was there.

I so miss her expertise on the game, her love of this national pastime, her pride in Cleveland and her Cleveland Indians, and the 'queen' of Jacob's Field.

I've worn her baseball jacket all week. I have not needed it until now and it was perfect.

I could not get through this night without shedding many tears.

As I glanced around the ballpark and realized that this IS my home away from home with so many memories throughout my entire lifetime....I would have a huge void in my life without baseball and 'my' Cleveland Indians.

I was surrounded by friends. At the beginning of the 2nd game, I ran into a family I'd known almost my entire life and ironically they were just one row over from me.

Even people I did not know --being in the ballpark for the last 6-7 hours, we all bonded.

My usher, Bob and his wife were on hand.

And true fans who just loved the game of baseball and could not pass up seeing the final game, though there was nothing at stake!

Even better, when the Tribe did something extraordinary, I got a text from a great friend of mine, Marc, who shares my love of the game. He made me laugh so many times during the game when I really felt like crying.

At the final out, the flood gates opened.

Everything that had built up over the last 162 games and the last 11 months since Mom has been gone came out in full force and I could not stop crying. The Indians won. It was an exciting season for the true fan. I went through the entire season Mom-less. I would miss my guys over the next 4 months....and so many other thoughts and emotions were slamming together.

Karen, my usher's wife, saw my disposition and ran down to give me a huge hug.

THAT my friends is how lucky Mom and I have been over the years. Baseball, win or lose, has only had positive effects on our lives, has given us very good friends, and has allowed us to make countless memories for the rest of our lives.

I really lost it when the entire team ran out with bags of signed baseballs and started tossing them to the fans who went the distance with them....waving....signing autographs.

Chris Perez, who just had a little baby, closed out the final game. He was the post game interview guest.

After his interview, he got his bag of autographed baseballs, and passed them out to the fans. He was the lone player left on the field yet so appreciative of the fans thanking HIM for a great year that he signed autographs for countless fans until they started turning the ballpark lights out.

I finally had to tear myself away from the ballpark knowing that soon enough, I'd be back, and so would my guardian angel.

Mom's 'Labor' of love

Though this weekend has always brought bittersweet feelings for me, it surely has been one of Mom's favorite weekends through the years.

For me, Labor Day weekend brought an end to summer, school back in session, baseball season nearing it's final out, and wearing winter clothes again...though I adore the Jerry Lewis Telethon and would stay up all night long to watch the entire show (still do!).

Mom loved the planes. Since she was a small girl and her Dad took her to the air races at Hopkins Airport, she's loved the planes. She wanted to parachute from a plane and be a pilot. I'm sure up in Heaven, she's tried both!

Having her baby brother as a big wig in the Air Force brought her great joy as well bringing her love of airplanes and her country together in perfect harmony.

So come Labor Day Weekend, Mom was in her glory. If the Indians were in town, we'd be at the games and watch the planes buzzing. What a hoot watching the ballplayers eye the planes above rather than the balls flying around or get spooked and caught off guard when a surprise attack forced miscues on the field or in the batter's box.

With my job downtown, we've been very fortunate to be able to have the best seats in the house to watch the air show year after year.

We never missed a show.

Until this year, as a team. The dynamic duo which we were. I know Mom was watching from above. And I was fortunate to have to work Labor Day and then zoom up to the roof to join my family to watch the festivities!

It's amazing sometimes what I remember and what I don't. I remember exactly what Mom and I were doing last Labor Day. I won't lie. It was a hard one. Mom had dialysis but we still made the Indians' Game. We also did not miss the Air Show.

This weekend was especially bittersweet for all the same reasons and one bigger looming reason. I never dwell on the past. I never sit around moping about Mom. I am so proud that I have continued living, I've not skipped a beat, and carried on just as Mom would have wanted me. I inherited Mom's zest for life. She loved life and lived it 'til her very last breath. But I won't lie. When I do something for the first time without Mom, it's sad and makes my insides hurt like you would not believe.

And having people tell to move on, not remember, or other ridiculous advice I continuously get day after day just makes me outright angry.

This Labor Day I was fortunate to spend a lot of the weekend with my family, which was very nice.

I also attended the Train Concert, which would have been much better if my best friend would have been in town from FLA...but he was not. I could not pass up the chance to see one of my favorite groups, and they did not disappoint. It's amazing what a few cocktails can get you through time and time again!

Overall, an ok weekend. I'm sensing the next few months will be more difficult than the summer has been in light of the upcoming anniversary. But, I will press on and live the way Mom lived, loved, and do what she would have wanted me to do to be happy!

The memory-making machine in full gear

Staying on schedule VS Seeing good friends

Cleaning VS Making new memories

Getting enough sleep VS Catching up with long, lost friends

Thrifty VS Spending a little more $ than you have because you only live once

Working out VS any of the above (this is a tough one)

Tossing normal schedule out the window to spend quality time with someone very special?

This summer, after the last 18 months I've had....the last 5 years I've had....the last 8 years I've had, I've opted to focus on people rather than anything else.

I've gotten some criticism (including harsh words from myself because my to-do list continues growing and growing).

Then factor in the guy vs girl mentality. I know some great guys but if there is one common thread among 'most' men I know at least--they care more about 'things' and 'agendas' rather than people or memory-making.

I have one friend who is probably my best friend in the whole wide world. I love him to death. But he has the exact same schedule week in, week out --when he washes his car, goes to the grocery store, washes clothes, eats, gets up, visits with friends, blah blah blah. It drives me nuts. He'll come into town for a visit and I can pretty much set the stage for the week ahead.

Well, the last time he was in town, I tossed the rule book out the window and we had 'the best' week we'd ever had since he started coming back home.

That has been my summer and particularly this past week.

I know once the weather cools down, my nose will be to the grindstone to work in the yard, the house and attempt to catch up on everything I've neglected. It will get done.

Sunday I went to the Indians game with a girl from grade school and her daughter. What a fantastic time! Not only did we have a tremendous brunch together in the Terrace Club enjoying the Tampa Bay-Tribe Game, but I spent the rest of the day with Sheila, Loren and their whole family topped off with sharing a delicious home-cooked meal!

Monday night an old college friend, her daughter, and I caught up at the Yankees -Indians game. Kim and Lauren and I relived old memories and made some new ones as we got wrapped up in the "Will A-Rod hit his 600th home run phenomenon?" It actually was quite exciting whether you love or hate the Yankees. Every pitch to A-Rod, thousands of flash bulbs erupted just like a million points of light! I enjoyed seeing all the cars from New York spending money in our fine city!

Wednesday, I thought I was just meeting a friend to get my football tickets when we threw caution to the wind and decided to grab an impromptu lunch together to catch up. I had not seen Michael in over a year.

Don't get me wrong. I enjoy 'things,' being organized, and having meticulous surroundings. I used to be the most organized person anyone knew and clean to a fault. That's a segment of my life which one day I will get back.

However, when you have 2 very close relatives taken from you unexpectedly, and your best friend is required to move 2000 miles away for a job, your outlook on life becomes slightly altered. You turn within to delve deep as to what is really important in life.

You seize each and every moment because the next moment may never come.

Joy of watching baseball with new and old

What a weekend!

Filled with baseball, friends, family, and all that matters to me.

Saturday night I had the distinct honor of sharing the Cleveland Indians' baseball game with 2 friends who had never been to an Indians game or the Terrace Club.

What a joy! Let's face it. I learned from the best (MOM!) and want to share our love of baseball and the Cleveland Indians!

Not only spending time with good, genuine friends, but trying to impart on two people WHY I adore the game of baseball and 'my' Cleveland Indians. An absolutely magnificent experience had by all!

My friends had the entire reader's digest version: Terrace Club experience, rain delay, tarp pulling, extra innings, watching the game from our seats, and a come from behind win!

BONUS!

And fortunately a fabulous experience had by all --Lisa and Bob are hooked and said they'd LOVE to come back for more! Two more converts! I'm proud to have been part of the conversion!

Sunday enjoyed the game with two 'old' friends who are well versed in the game of baseball...but I had not seen them in a little while. What a great day catching up with Lydia and Marilyn!

Both miss Mom so much (as do I). Marilyn was so cute. She refused to sit in "Mom's seat."

Mom IS and will always be at the Cleveland Indians' games with us and in our hearts!

We love you Mom! I love you more, Mom! XO

"The Decision"

Funny how life unfolds.

Another amazing week in my life.

A few days ago I received a visit from a dear, dear grade school friend and her family. Just when I was beginning to doubt myself and wondering about a few current friendships/relationships, Susie showed me that there ARE true friends out there who will be there forever.

Heck, Susie and her family are from North Carolina and I had a wonderful visit with her. I can't even get together for coffee/pizza/or a baseball game with another amazing friend who lives only 30 minutes away. Go figure!

As the week began, I had grandiose plans and mountains I wanted to conquer before I hit the sandy beaches of Tampa, FLA.

As the week progressed I realized what was realistic and downsized my plans. The "new" and improved Danielle did not freak out that everything would not get done. I'm very content knowing I am not superwoman (though most think I am! I will let them believe what they want).

And so the week brings us to now! I leave for TPA before the sun pops up and am not going to go to bed as I finish packing & finish up last minute things...

But more importantly, "The Decision" is due tonight between 9:10 p.m. and 9:20 p.m.

It's already all over the internet that LeBron James is heading to the Miami Heat so what's left to say?

Amazing that LeBron and I may be in the same state this weekend. Funny how life plays out.

I can't let the outcome cloud my long weekend with one of my best friends and my boys, the Cleveland Indians!

As one of my favorite actresses says, Que Sera Sera....

A week of firsts

Ahhhh!

The funny thing about this entry is that this has been a week of many firsts for me....and I can not share many of them with you!

Psyche!

Tuesday I had an experience --one of which I'd never had before! Overall, very good! Found out a few things about myself which I'm not sure I wanted to hear but definitely an eye opening, wake up call to good health.....never thought I'd be there! But hey, a girl has to do what a girl has to do! I'm in the midst of trying to take back my life and get back on track.

Thursday--just a delightful day at the ballpark! At the end of the game I was beaming with my girlish grin....

Friday's visit to my spa unlike any I've ever had! WOW! An amazing service they offer, and just the needed boost necessary to get me out of my doldrums and over my blue funk. I just hope others notice and are very pleased with the outcome! What a girl won't do for the men in her life! A gift to me for the last few weeks I've had, and heck, to celebrate the World Cup!

When I awoke Saturday morning, had no idea the path the day would lead me......hit the Larchmere Festival, which was superb! What a day! On the way to the event, I stopped by an authentic lemonade stand and bought a delicious, thirst quenching glass for the 1st time in I'm guessing 25 years. Enjoyed the live music, vendors peddling their unique items, homemade foodstuffs, had a fabulous chat with my best friend from Tampa while walking up and down the corridor, and reconfirmed why I adore the Larchmere neighborhood as much as I do.

Then no trip to Progressive Field is ever like the last! I sat next to the most adorable little boy who made the trek with his dad. Seeing the game as well as the fireworks through this little boy's eyes was amazing. I also met the members of the U.S. Olympic Bobsled team & touched their gold medals. I'm told while I was enamored with the Olympians a foul ball hit my chair. I can take this as a sign that IF I had been there, I may be at the emergency room right now!

For a week that started out with absolutely nothing planned, I can't fathom the way it finished and the way I've grown as a person.

Can it get any better than this?

I wasn't so sure I could top the 1st Saturday and Sunday of my vacation. Come on!

My best friend (many call him my BFF and many call him my boyfriend --but he's just my friend) Craig flew into town......Cleveland Indians with good friends Carrie and Brian, and then the Map Room with another great friend, Marc!

That's just day #1.

Day #2--a suite at the Indians' game with my entire family and very good friends...and then spending the night with 'my' Cleveland Indians at the zoo....NBA Playoffs and catching up with Craig....

WOW, thought these 2 days were insurmountable.

I keep proving myself wrong as each day of this vacation progresses.....

It has been complete heaven, bliss, and everything in between!

I would not do it justice by sharing...and making it sound like a log of everything that transpires.

Suffice it to say it involves a plethora of terrific friends, family, catching up, doing 'whatever' the spirit moves me to do, 'my' Cleveland Indians, no work, no appointments, no set schedule for the 1st time ever, lots of music, plenty of cocktails, absolute sunny skies, and not a care in the world!

A highlight to this point is that I got carded--can you believe it?! I told the girl she made my week. Then she went on to ask, "Are you Italian? You must be Italian!! Do you use Oil of Olay?" When she looked at my driver's license, her eyes just about flew out of her head! And my perfect week continued!

I got some 'wild friends'

My whirlwind year continues as I re-trace some of my steps, yet they are minus my best friend, Mom.

One year ago, Mom and I attended an Indians' game and after the game had tickets for the 'Indians at the Zoo' event. We were both kind of tired but loved our Indians as well as the zoo.

So we headed over to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo after the Tribe game for a night of not sure what to expect! I told Mom I could push her around in her wheelchair and she'd be fine. She was worried that I would get very tired pushing her around but did not realize it was my honor and pleasure!

We had a blast! Oh my gosh. Last year's event consisted of a nice dinner in the food pavilion of ballpark fare....then the entire team was set up a various stations around the zoo.

Last year we got some pretty good folks including Choo, Huff, Garko, etc., and I tried taking pictures of these guys as well.

Mom and I told each other --'we don't know if the Indians will do this next year so let's take advantage of it.' Little did we know at the time that Mom would NOT be here this year. A perfect example NOT to pass anything up that is very important to me. I have tried ever since that day and moreso after Mom passed away to live each day as if it were my last.

So when this year's event came along --I could not pass it up knowing full well it would be quite bittersweet.

My family was fortunate to enjoy the Strasburg game from a suite.....that was awesome. The entire family gathered together enjoying each other, a beautiful day, and our Cleveland Indians. We must have done something right!

After the game, flew to the zoo flying solo. Did not matter --I had SOOOOOO much fun! Oh my. Not only did I get so many great autographs and pictures but it was just a lovely night. I am a HUGE fan of the zoo and go every year.

What would have made it perfect --having Mom there or having the man of my dreams there (hmmm, which one would that be these days? There really are soooo many!) Then I look back and say, I had almost 30 of the men of my dreams at various stations around the grounds! Not complaining!

I can not even start with the highlights. Frank Hermann is such a sweetheart and so kind and pleasant with the most beautiful eyes. Carlos Santana signing autographs as he speaks on his cell phone in Spanish. Justin Masterson was asking the little kids for their autographs and Mitch Talbott was telling the little tykes how their autographs were so much more valuable than his!

When I got to the table to Mike Redmond, veteran catcher, and Shelley Duncan, OF-1B, I got flustered! I never even got a picture of them (and they are both so cute!)....but Mom must have been channelling inside of me because I did muster up enough gumption to tell Shelley that when I was 16, his father Dave sent me a sweet 16 birthday card! There were people coming in behind me so I did not even give him the overview of how that whole thing transpired but will write him a letter with the background! I'm telling you, they both flustered me! None of the other guys did that??? However, his reaction was great. He said, 'That's very cool!" And I totally agreed!

Russell the muscle Branyan had his cute little boy with him ...and all the Moms were asking if he was signing autographs....

And the cutest little boy replayed the night when Luis Val Buena hit a home run to win the game for the Tribe. Luis was extremely impressed with this little boy who could not have been more than 6 years old!

I was thrilled to talk to and get a picture of little Jason Donald --mark my words, he WILL be a great shortstop--2nd basemen for the Cleveland Indians!

I could not get the smile off of my face --but that is a daily occurrence in my life these days.

Immediately following the event, I could not wait to call my friend Matt and give him the play by play, especially about Branyan. Matt's always kidding me about #33's strikeout ratio!

It will be hard to top the 1st 2 days of my vacation...but I'm sensing I'll give it a good fight.....especially since my best friend is in town, Indians are in town, NBA playoffs continue and the weather is supposed to be just splendid!

Pinch me!

I got carded!

AH, what a perfect way to start my vacation!

Actually, it began with a refreshing cocktail after work Friday night safely in the confines of my home......ok, maybe there was more than just one!

Then I greeted my best friend in the entire world at the airport Saturday afternoon. THAT was the perfect way to start my vacation!

Hooked up with 2 very good friends, Carrie and Brian, for the Indians-Washington game and we all got carded! What a hoot! The woman's reaction after looking at my date of birth was P-R-I-C-E-L-E-S-S! Then she started asking me all these questions on how I stay so young looking. She said, 'You must be Italian!' 'Do you use Oil of Olay?' I am not making this stuff up, I actually have 2 witnesses and it totally made my entire week!

Great time at the game....from when the guy behind Brian dumped his nachos all over him all the way up to the Terrace Club! Afterward, I was all wound up and could not go home....my best friend, a bit jet lagged, kinda blew me off but was a blessing in disguise because I had the most wonderful time with another very good friend at the Map Room all night!

I can not believe how many 'old' friends I re-connected with and how many terrific new friends I met! Good luck Tully! I guess I am not that old--kept up with my younger friends!

Looking forward to another wonderful day Sunday as my entire family will be enjoying the Indians' game against Strasburg in a suite and then lovely night at the zoo with those very same Cleveland Indians!

Not sure how I will be able to keep topping each day --but I am sure gonna try my best!

It WAS perfect!

I can not believe I am saying this but I would have loved to see Armando Galarraga pitch a perfect game against my Cleveland Indians!

I DID!

I said it and I saw it!

It did not count as a perfect game because first base umpire Jim Joyce called Jason Donald safe at first on the 27th batter of the game though he was clearly out!

We can go back and forth until we have no breath left on instant replay in baseball....and whether or not Bud Selig should overturn the call.....

Watching the drama unfold was amazing. I was at work with the best sportscaster around, Jim Donovan. For the fleeting moment, though we were working, that was the story and we were sucked in to what was happening on the field.

We were freely watching the game, Jim doing play by play, and emoting with each pitch. I'm surprised my co-workers did not call security on us!

I frantically texting my best friend in FLA telling him to catch a feed or tune in to what was happening to the Cleveland Indians. He works for the FOX affiliate so he too was working and very busy but hopefully he was able to catch a bit of the antics...

An emotional drain at the end of the game for everyone in the newsroom, even those who are not baseball fans. WOW!

I felt awful for Galarraga, who deserved to be in the record books with the best of the best. But what impressed me even more is Armando's composure, his compassion toward umpire Joyce and his soft spoken-ness at what happened. An amazing young man.

He admitted after he absorbs it all and realizes what happened, he may feel a bit differently, but still, very proud to see a ballplayer conduct themselves in that manner.

I do believe everything happens for a reason, but that does not mean I have to agree with it or understand it!