Today was another rainy day in Fairbanks. The locals are saying the weather has been a little "weird" this year, go figure that one. Anyway, most of them are saying it is usally a little warmer and not quite so rainy at this time. The rain usually comes later in the summer.
Kirkland finally got to go fishing today, in fact, we just got back from the Chena River. We only stayed about an hour and had no bites. Unless you count the ones he thought he had from the rocks. At least he got to go, something he has been looking forward to for a long time.
We had discipleship and practice earlier today after having Saturday/Sunday off. A'lot of the guys went rafting, biking, fishing, hiking and up to the Hot Springs. They took advantage of the time off.
Tomorrow(Tuesday) we get back to our routine. Discipleship at 1:30pm, pre-game at 4pm and first pitch at 7pm. We play the Miners for four days and look to get back on a winning track. Most of the teams have been beating up on each other so we are still right in the thick of things even though we struggled last week. Hopefully, we can get back on a winning streak soon.
Gas is still just $4.45 a gallon, that's good news.
Anyone just now checking out the blog can click on any of the links to the left of the screen and catch up on the previous posts. There were also about six done in May I think.
We will meet with the Miners on Wednesday and share with them after batting practice. It will be the first league team we will meet with since arriving in Fairbanks and I am interested to see how they respond. The routine will be the same. One of our guys will give their testimony and another will go over the brochures we hand out. This will give them a day or two for follow up if any of the players have some questions.
Well, that's it for tonight. I made a deal with myself to try and get asleep prior to 10:30pm tonight. Last night was tough. I hit an "energy wall" about midnight and finally crashed around 1:30pm. These sunny nights are rough.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Rest..........
Today we rested.....it's amazing how tired you get here in Alaska...even though you compensate for going to sleep late by sleeping later the sun drains you in an odd way.
We stayed closer to "home" today. Took a quick ride up the Steese Expswy to view the Trans Alaska Pipeline. It's amazing to learn how much oil transfers through the pipeline each day and then to fill up your gas tank for $4.45 a gallon!!! Actually, you can't fill up here as you are limited to $75.00 per visit. Just incredible to know all the crude oil needed is flowing 8 miles from our apartment and prices are that high. The Alaskans are mixed.....some are upset and some want to keep their land untapped. They are more upset with the govt spending millions of dollars "counting salmon".
We visited a local park and threw the football. It's weird to see Kirkland and Kaylee enjoy throwing a football at a local park more than anything else we have done.
We have tomorrow(Monday) off again. An early discipleship at 10am and practice until around 1:30pm will lead into our first day of fishing. You can pick up some really good prices on fishing rods here, they get you on the license. It's $20.00 per day, but you do have some 3-5-7 day options and also a yearly pass as well.
It's kind of neat as you drive down the roads and see people everywhere just fishing.
We finished the day off just walking around Fairbanks and playing down at the local river park. We miss Sundays at Secona and lunch at Grandmas............been a long time since we had some roast beef and mac/cheese.
I told myself I would be in bed tonight by 11pm, missed that one again. Going to bed with the sun up is just too difficult. I can only imagine what darkness will feel like when we get back home in August. Our sleep patterns will be all messed up I bet.
Got bit by a mosquito today, lost three pints of blood!
Butch, here is your shout out you requested......"shout out". Wow, I am tired.
I also added some more photos to the site....click here to view and don't forget to look at all the pages as about 60-70 photos have been added.
Here is a video of Kirkland's new hobby....skipping rocks:
Saturday, June 28, 2008
I got Moose..........
It only took two weeks but we finally saw a moose in the wild. I think I was the last one on the team to see one.
We had a day off today(Saturday) and our family took off exploring. The day started at Denny's. Wait, before you say "Denny's" and ask yourself why the day would start there let me give you two reasons.
1: The number of restaurants in Fairbanks is limited and they were the only one we knew that would provide pancakes(at least good ones).
2: It is the northern most Denny's in the world....cool, huh.
Okay, b-fast we headed to the North Pole or least Alaska's version of the North Pole. The town is located about 10-15 minutes from Fairbanks and we actually have some of our players staying there with host families. Bobby Randall(former MLB player with Twins) is one of our coaches and he shuttles some of the guys back and forth each day. He told me one morning he just took some turns off Donner road, onto Blitzer and then Kris Kringle Way. True story.
The North Pole is small, but has candy cane light poles and of course a post office. The actual post office where letters are postmarked from the North Pole.
We then traveled to Chena Hot Springs and Chena Lake Recreation Area. It was a neat drive and we finally saw a moose. I have added a video below of the moose bathing in a river. A cool sight.
I have also added some photos, you can see the updates by clicking here.
Hard to believe we are almost a month in to the trip. It just seems like yesterday we took two trips through the Atlanta security before boarding a jet for San Fran. One month down and one to go. I am sure it will be August 4 before we know it.
On our way to the Chena Hot Springs we took the "roller coaster highway" or at least that is what Kirkland named it. It seems that the vast difference in the seasons here takes a toll on the roads among other things. In Fairbanks along they have recorded summer temps as high as 90 and winter lows around 30 below. You will be driving down a road at 55-60 and all of the sudden hit these dips in the road.......let's just say it gives you a weird feeling in your stomach. Construction is all over the roads as well since the winters don't provide much sunlight or warmth to work outside.
The stretch of road leading from Fairbanks to the Chena Hot Springs is a neat adventure. A 15-20 mile stretch is parkland and provides numerous pull offs. RV's and other campers are able to pull off right on the river beds and camp overnight. There is no law that prevents people from camping at the pull-offs or on the river bed unless marked.
We pulled off one area and saw a young couple getting ready to hike an area. They had the full hiking gear and seemed experienced. They even had a "hiking baby stroller" complete with baby. It was an odd sight, especially the gun strapped to the man's leg. In case of mosquitos of course. Remember those creatures are bigger than the bears.
Gas is up to $4.45, just thought I would throw that out there. What are the prices back in good ole SC? And by the way...no such thing as a dollar menu at McDonalds.......they have a $1.79 menu. No sweet tea either, going crazy on that one.
I have an official "peanut gallery" at the games. The fans here are great. They really get into the games and are brutal. I have been called "Yogi", "23", "idiot", "genius" and hired and fired by the Mariners all in one game. It's all by this one guy, too. He just sits in the stands behind 3B and gets on the coaches and players. He has some good one-liners. It's funny, one game we had a hit and run play work and he yelled out I should manage the Mariners, the next inning one of our guys got threw out stealing and he yells out how I coach like I am managing the Mariners. He is at all the games, yelling away.
If anyone would like some items postmarked from the North Pole let me know. It's kind of neat.
Okay, enough for tonight. The sun's out, time for bed.
Moose video below:
Friday, June 27, 2008
Back in the win column........
It's almost midnight here in Fairbanks and I am sitting in the living room area of our apartment eating a chocolate covered donut and drinking a wild cherry pepsi. We just picked up a win and I am wide awake. I guess the donut and pepsi might have something to do with that.
Earlier today I was trying to figure out what to say to our team as we were reeling off a five game losing streak. We met and talked about taking the initiative. This is simply having the courage to make decisions and take action. Seems simple, but often times very difficult to do. I was able to relay it into getting the most out of our early work(practice time before BP). The guys did a good job and seem to buy into for that day. It's funny, I bet if we as Christians took the initiative more often we would see a difference in our life and the lives of others. I am going to "practice what I preach" and give it a whirl tomorrow.
Our guys played well tonight. We had been struggling for the last few games in a phases and finally put it together tonight. I have to admit, playing for AIA takes a'lot of dedication and inner strength and our guys play the role. Other summer league teams here in Alaska play a game, stay up late, sleep late and probably partake of other activities common to college students. Our guys report to a local Church each day at 1:30pm for a 1 1/2 hour discipleship time then off to the field for some early out work before batting practice. They easily put in 10 hour days by the time the van shuttle drops them off after the game and dinner. You have to be dedicated and love it.
We play our final game of the week tomorrow night(Friday) against the Goldpanners. A win will get us back in the middle of the pack and prepare us for a good weekend. We actually have our longest break coming up this weekend. We are off completely Saturday/Sunday and then get back to discipleship and practice on Monday before playing on Tuesday. It is an odd three days off, but we are all looking forward to it. Some of the guys have fishing trips planned. Our family will try and take advantage of the local tourist attractions and maybe even wet a hook as well. Kirk has been looking forward to the fishing for months.
Well, the sun is setting as it should be at 12:18am and I am getting tired. It will be off to bed and another day tomorrow.
Earlier today I was trying to figure out what to say to our team as we were reeling off a five game losing streak. We met and talked about taking the initiative. This is simply having the courage to make decisions and take action. Seems simple, but often times very difficult to do. I was able to relay it into getting the most out of our early work(practice time before BP). The guys did a good job and seem to buy into for that day. It's funny, I bet if we as Christians took the initiative more often we would see a difference in our life and the lives of others. I am going to "practice what I preach" and give it a whirl tomorrow.
Our guys played well tonight. We had been struggling for the last few games in a phases and finally put it together tonight. I have to admit, playing for AIA takes a'lot of dedication and inner strength and our guys play the role. Other summer league teams here in Alaska play a game, stay up late, sleep late and probably partake of other activities common to college students. Our guys report to a local Church each day at 1:30pm for a 1 1/2 hour discipleship time then off to the field for some early out work before batting practice. They easily put in 10 hour days by the time the van shuttle drops them off after the game and dinner. You have to be dedicated and love it.
We play our final game of the week tomorrow night(Friday) against the Goldpanners. A win will get us back in the middle of the pack and prepare us for a good weekend. We actually have our longest break coming up this weekend. We are off completely Saturday/Sunday and then get back to discipleship and practice on Monday before playing on Tuesday. It is an odd three days off, but we are all looking forward to it. Some of the guys have fishing trips planned. Our family will try and take advantage of the local tourist attractions and maybe even wet a hook as well. Kirk has been looking forward to the fishing for months.
Well, the sun is setting as it should be at 12:18am and I am getting tired. It will be off to bed and another day tomorrow.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Update from Kaylee.............
This post will give Kaylee's view of the trip so far. Should be interesting......
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the trip so far?
Kaylee: "hmmmm...., what have we done so far momma? Playing with Neji." Neji is the Craig's pug, our host family in Gilroy, CA
Q: Did you like Gilroy, Anchorage or Fairbanks the best and why?
Kaylee: "Gilroy.....we went to Gilroy Gardens." Gilroy Gardens is a miniture theme park.
Q: Who is your favorite baseball player on the team?
Kaylee: "Cody" Cody Brown plays for Liberty Univ and plays 1B and P for us this summer.
Q: What do you like best about the baseball games?
Kaylee: "being the mascot" Kaylee bought a moose hat on the trip from Anchorage and desires to be the team's mascot and hand out candy at the games.
Q: What do you want to do in Fairbanks?
Kaylee: "going fishing"
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the trip so far?
Kaylee: "hmmmm...., what have we done so far momma? Playing with Neji." Neji is the Craig's pug, our host family in Gilroy, CA
Q: Did you like Gilroy, Anchorage or Fairbanks the best and why?
Kaylee: "Gilroy.....we went to Gilroy Gardens." Gilroy Gardens is a miniture theme park.
Q: Who is your favorite baseball player on the team?
Kaylee: "Cody" Cody Brown plays for Liberty Univ and plays 1B and P for us this summer.
Q: What do you like best about the baseball games?
Kaylee: "being the mascot" Kaylee bought a moose hat on the trip from Anchorage and desires to be the team's mascot and hand out candy at the games.
Q: What do you want to do in Fairbanks?
Kaylee: "going fishing"
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Mid-Week............
We have now settled in to our apartment and life here in Fairbanks. It is a little different than Pickens, Gilroy or Anchorage. However, that is what makes this trip so interesting. We have experienced three unique types of lifestyle while on this trip so far.
We have not faired too well on the field lately. In fact, we have really played poorly the last two days here in Fairbanks. Too many walks, hits, hit batters and errors. Offensively, not enough walks, hits, hit batters or reached by error. We are in a phase right now that hopefully we will snap out of soon.
I know it has to be tough on our guys as well. They are on their third week of sleep away from their normal bed and are on their third host family as well. The guys are frustrated on the field as well, but hopefully they realize they are experiencing something unique in Alaska and AIA.
A'lot is expected of our players and Chris Beck does a great job of staying consistent with them in terms of the overall experience. He just finished his "LSD" session that last about 8 days. It really got the guys to thinking about their choices in life and what will happen when they get back on campus in a month or two. Peer pressure will hit them square in the nose. We start a new session today with Mike who is with Campus Crusade from UNC. He has worked with the Tarheel baseball team and should provide a great discipleship session.
Speaking of college baseball.........here's to the Dawgs taking the CWS. I know Joe B will be rooting for his beloved team.
The fam is doing great. Kirkland and Kaylee played with the Beck kids on the field with some of the other players. It was fun to watch them have so much fun and realize that baseball is just that......a game. Sometimes we get so caught up in our work, I know I do. I am really blessed to call my "work" coaching baseball for a living. I came into this summer experience knowing I am blessed, but also wanting to find more of what I can do in terms of helping others. Chris has said several times....."be strong, stand for truth and live for eternity."
Well, it's 11:43am local time and time for family. We will have about two hours before I leave for discipleship and then off to the stadium for some early work, bp and the game.
By the way, Tammy is on the phone and just told someone we are on a four game losing streak....ouch....that one stings a little.
For those praying for our trip, here you go:
Pray for our 23 players as they learn the Word, the game and life in general.
Tobias, Frank, Cody, Dave, Kevin, Nick, Quinn, Jonathan, Ryan T, Caleb, Kendall, Ryan E, Brint, Jason, Mitch, Tim, Eric, Alex, Brett, Derek, Shawn, Todd, Jeremy
We have not faired too well on the field lately. In fact, we have really played poorly the last two days here in Fairbanks. Too many walks, hits, hit batters and errors. Offensively, not enough walks, hits, hit batters or reached by error. We are in a phase right now that hopefully we will snap out of soon.
I know it has to be tough on our guys as well. They are on their third week of sleep away from their normal bed and are on their third host family as well. The guys are frustrated on the field as well, but hopefully they realize they are experiencing something unique in Alaska and AIA.
A'lot is expected of our players and Chris Beck does a great job of staying consistent with them in terms of the overall experience. He just finished his "LSD" session that last about 8 days. It really got the guys to thinking about their choices in life and what will happen when they get back on campus in a month or two. Peer pressure will hit them square in the nose. We start a new session today with Mike who is with Campus Crusade from UNC. He has worked with the Tarheel baseball team and should provide a great discipleship session.
Speaking of college baseball.........here's to the Dawgs taking the CWS. I know Joe B will be rooting for his beloved team.
The fam is doing great. Kirkland and Kaylee played with the Beck kids on the field with some of the other players. It was fun to watch them have so much fun and realize that baseball is just that......a game. Sometimes we get so caught up in our work, I know I do. I am really blessed to call my "work" coaching baseball for a living. I came into this summer experience knowing I am blessed, but also wanting to find more of what I can do in terms of helping others. Chris has said several times....."be strong, stand for truth and live for eternity."
Well, it's 11:43am local time and time for family. We will have about two hours before I leave for discipleship and then off to the stadium for some early work, bp and the game.
By the way, Tammy is on the phone and just told someone we are on a four game losing streak....ouch....that one stings a little.
For those praying for our trip, here you go:
Pray for our 23 players as they learn the Word, the game and life in general.
Tobias, Frank, Cody, Dave, Kevin, Nick, Quinn, Jonathan, Ryan T, Caleb, Kendall, Ryan E, Brint, Jason, Mitch, Tim, Eric, Alex, Brett, Derek, Shawn, Todd, Jeremy
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Anchorage to Fairbanks, Home at last......
We left Anchorage this morning(Sunday) at 8am local time and arrived in Fairbanks around 3pm local time. We finally made it "home" after two weeks in California and 1 week in Anchorage.
Fairbanks is our summer home and is nice to be able to unpack our bags for awhile. The two weeks in California and 1 week in Anchorage were great, but it is nice to call a place "home" for a short time.
I will have more updates later, but for now here is a short video of our roadtrip to today. It begins early this morning with Kaylee finding a sleeping place in the van and ends here in Fairbanks. The video is nothing special in terms of special effects, so don't get too excited. Who knows, it may not even work!!!
Fairbanks is our summer home and is nice to be able to unpack our bags for awhile. The two weeks in California and 1 week in Anchorage were great, but it is nice to call a place "home" for a short time.
I will have more updates later, but for now here is a short video of our roadtrip to today. It begins early this morning with Kaylee finding a sleeping place in the van and ends here in Fairbanks. The video is nothing special in terms of special effects, so don't get too excited. Who knows, it may not even work!!!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Things you learn in an airport...........
What do you get when you mix 23 college baseball players, a nine year old kid and too much time waiting in an airport? Well................check out the video below.
It seems that we breezed through the unloading, bag check and security checks as we left San Fran for Anchorage last week. This allowed us some extra time to sit and wait at the gate. This also allowed time for some practical jokes to be played. Let me give you the setting.........
Some of our guys got the idea to set up "dollar man", modeled after the "bush man" in San Fran. I have to admit it was funny to watch.
The guys would tie a dollar bill to some dental floss, place the dollar in their back pocket, then walk across the floor in front of oncoming people. Someone would then pull the dollar tied to the floss. It would fall to the floor as the person kept walking. The unsuspecting person walking would see the dollar fall out of the person's pocket and either keep walking or try and pick it up. The person on the other end would then pull the dollar away.
Well, you really just have to see it. Here is video of Kirkland playing the part of "dollar man".
It seems that we breezed through the unloading, bag check and security checks as we left San Fran for Anchorage last week. This allowed us some extra time to sit and wait at the gate. This also allowed time for some practical jokes to be played. Let me give you the setting.........
Some of our guys got the idea to set up "dollar man", modeled after the "bush man" in San Fran. I have to admit it was funny to watch.
The guys would tie a dollar bill to some dental floss, place the dollar in their back pocket, then walk across the floor in front of oncoming people. Someone would then pull the dollar tied to the floss. It would fall to the floor as the person kept walking. The unsuspecting person walking would see the dollar fall out of the person's pocket and either keep walking or try and pick it up. The person on the other end would then pull the dollar away.
Well, you really just have to see it. Here is video of Kirkland playing the part of "dollar man".
Anchorage Day Five......
Not a good day for the Fire......we took a beating tonight as we collected just one hit, no runs and made five errors as we lost 10-0 to the Pilots. This was the same team we beat earlier in the week 9-3, go figure that one out.
We slept in this morning, a first for us as a family. It was a weird feeling waking up at 10:00am, but the time changes, late nights and sun all the time has took a toll. We had more energy and enjoyed the day otherwise.
Tomorrow(saturday) is our last day in Anchorage before we travel to Fairbanks. The day will begin in the morning as we will try and grab some tourist action before discipleship begins at 3pm. We will then play our 5th game in a row as play the Bucs at 7pm.
Kirkland and Kaylee have been doing great and they have had fun getting to know Ryan, Jackson and Ty Beck. The players have also been great in getting to know all the kids. Tammy is getting along well also. She gets tired a little quicker now that our baby(December 11 expected arrival) is growing each day, but enjoys being together with everyone each day. Our life pretty much consists of family, discipleship sessions and baseball. All this in a land we have never been before is a great experience for all of us.
I am still one of the last to not see a moose in the wild. Five days and counting now.
We slept in this morning, a first for us as a family. It was a weird feeling waking up at 10:00am, but the time changes, late nights and sun all the time has took a toll. We had more energy and enjoyed the day otherwise.
Tomorrow(saturday) is our last day in Anchorage before we travel to Fairbanks. The day will begin in the morning as we will try and grab some tourist action before discipleship begins at 3pm. We will then play our 5th game in a row as play the Bucs at 7pm.
Kirkland and Kaylee have been doing great and they have had fun getting to know Ryan, Jackson and Ty Beck. The players have also been great in getting to know all the kids. Tammy is getting along well also. She gets tired a little quicker now that our baby(December 11 expected arrival) is growing each day, but enjoys being together with everyone each day. Our life pretty much consists of family, discipleship sessions and baseball. All this in a land we have never been before is a great experience for all of us.
I am still one of the last to not see a moose in the wild. Five days and counting now.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Anchorage Day Four
Day four in Anchorage is slowly coming to a close as most people we know our sound asleep right now. It is 11:22pm local time, 3:22am on Friday for most of our family and friends back home in the Southeast. Back home on Poinsett Ave the night has grown old and I am sure Dexter(our lab) is snoring away amidst the humid June night. Here in Anchorage, the sun is starting to set, the weather is cool, but not cold and I am wide awake!!
I don't know how the local people make it up here. Don't get me wrong, the scenery is incredible and the weather is really good right now. However, I don't think I could get adjusted to the long summer days and the darkness that never leaves in the winter. It is truly a different place to live. Animals like moose and bear are all over, in fact, I am one of the last on our team to have not caught a moose in the wild. Most of the players have had the privilege to see one in the wild. I am going on four consecutive days with no moose sighting.
We just finished playing our third game here in Alaska and won tonight 3-2 in 10 innings. It was a wild game. We had 13 hits while the Anchorage Bucs only had two hits. It took us ten innings to win and would have been a very tough loss had we not pulled it out. Hard to swallow a loss after you outhit your opponent 13-2. Our guys stay focused and pulled it out.
We have started a new series in discipleship. Chris is talking about LSD.........love, sex and dating. It is a powerful series with young college men opening up like they are during the sessions. We have some really strong young men in terms of their faith and we have some that are questioning their strength and others that are looking for answers involving their relationship with Christ. Keep this team in your prayers as we continue this summer developing and fostering relationships.
We had some time this morning to travel down the Seward Hwy and take in some of the beauty of Alaska. I have updated some photos, click here, to view.
We traveled down the Seward Hwy and viewed some snow capped mountains along the water. It was a great stretch of land.
Well, it's close to midnight here and time for a quick snack before bed. It will soon be time to start the day back over with discipleship at 2:30pm and then our 4th game in a row at 7pm. We wrap our first week up here in Anchorage on Saturday night with another 7pm game and then it's off to Fairbanks. A seven hour drive on Sunday will put us "home" for a stretch of time and allow us to unpack our bags.
I don't know how the local people make it up here. Don't get me wrong, the scenery is incredible and the weather is really good right now. However, I don't think I could get adjusted to the long summer days and the darkness that never leaves in the winter. It is truly a different place to live. Animals like moose and bear are all over, in fact, I am one of the last on our team to have not caught a moose in the wild. Most of the players have had the privilege to see one in the wild. I am going on four consecutive days with no moose sighting.
We just finished playing our third game here in Alaska and won tonight 3-2 in 10 innings. It was a wild game. We had 13 hits while the Anchorage Bucs only had two hits. It took us ten innings to win and would have been a very tough loss had we not pulled it out. Hard to swallow a loss after you outhit your opponent 13-2. Our guys stay focused and pulled it out.
We have started a new series in discipleship. Chris is talking about LSD.........love, sex and dating. It is a powerful series with young college men opening up like they are during the sessions. We have some really strong young men in terms of their faith and we have some that are questioning their strength and others that are looking for answers involving their relationship with Christ. Keep this team in your prayers as we continue this summer developing and fostering relationships.
We had some time this morning to travel down the Seward Hwy and take in some of the beauty of Alaska. I have updated some photos, click here, to view.
We traveled down the Seward Hwy and viewed some snow capped mountains along the water. It was a great stretch of land.
Well, it's close to midnight here and time for a quick snack before bed. It will soon be time to start the day back over with discipleship at 2:30pm and then our 4th game in a row at 7pm. We wrap our first week up here in Anchorage on Saturday night with another 7pm game and then it's off to Fairbanks. A seven hour drive on Sunday will put us "home" for a stretch of time and allow us to unpack our bags.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
First day in Alaska..........
Our first day in Alaska is coming to a close. The coolest thing about today was finishing up our first game in the League around 10:00pm and still wearing sunglasses.
No matter how much people tell you about the days being long and the sun being up at midnight it is something you have to experience for yourself.
Alaska is different, a different style all its own. From the people to the long days to the landscape its different.
We won our first League game tonight, defeated the Pilots 9-3. It was good to get that first League win under our belt. We are now 4-2 overall and 1-0 in League play.
We get back at Discipleship tomorrow at 1pm then travel about 45 minutes for a game against the Miners. We play every night this week and then head out to Fairbanks on Sunday.
No matter how much people tell you about the days being long and the sun being up at midnight it is something you have to experience for yourself.
Alaska is different, a different style all its own. From the people to the long days to the landscape its different.
We won our first League game tonight, defeated the Pilots 9-3. It was good to get that first League win under our belt. We are now 4-2 overall and 1-0 in League play.
We get back at Discipleship tomorrow at 1pm then travel about 45 minutes for a game against the Miners. We play every night this week and then head out to Fairbanks on Sunday.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
We made it............
We left San Fran on Monday evening at 7:55pm and landed in Anchorage around midnight. We picked up another hour so we are now working four hours off our eastern standard time we are used to.
A bus delivered us to the Anchorage host Church where host families picked up the guys. Two things really stood out as we waited in the parking lot:
1- It sure was bright to be 1:00am
2- Mosquitoes are big as birds here in Anchorage
We got in bed around 2:30am local time and slept great. It was a long day, but we are now entering our second leg of the journey. Hard to believe it has already been two weeks.
We open League play tonight here in Anchorage at 7pm local time, 11pm for any folks back home in SC/GA keeping up.
I am working on a slideshow, hope to have it up soon. I will try and post tonight after our game.
A bus delivered us to the Anchorage host Church where host families picked up the guys. Two things really stood out as we waited in the parking lot:
1- It sure was bright to be 1:00am
2- Mosquitoes are big as birds here in Anchorage
We got in bed around 2:30am local time and slept great. It was a long day, but we are now entering our second leg of the journey. Hard to believe it has already been two weeks.
We open League play tonight here in Anchorage at 7pm local time, 11pm for any folks back home in SC/GA keeping up.
I am working on a slideshow, hope to have it up soon. I will try and post tonight after our game.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
3.2 and counting.......
I have had a good number of firsts to happen here in California and had my first experience with an earthquake on Saturday night. It was a 3.2 and registered about 20-30 miles from where we are staying in a town called Aromas(I think).
I was standing up stairs trying to figure out a fax machine and a real quick rumble and sway occurred. My first reaction was "who slammed a door?" I was then told we just had an earthquake. The 3.2's are the best I imagine, a quick jolt with no damage. Now that I have felt one I am good for a lifetime.
Today started off with our last service at West Hills, the host Church in the Gilroy/Morgan Hill/San Martin area. We had the rest of the day off and my family and I ventured off to Monterey for the last time. We had fun spending some quality time together at the beach and then walking around Cannery Row.
Kirkland put together some documentaries for you, the video is below.
Well, this might be my last post for a few days, not sure. We fly out to Anchorage, Alaska tomorrow around 7 pm and not sure when I will have internet access again. Keep checking back soon.
This leg of the journey has been great. The weather has been incredible, the host families have made everything much easier for all of us and West Hills Community Church has been great in providing us with accommodations.
Our team has grown on the field and off. It has been rewarding watching these guys come together for discipleship. Their training over the last couple of weeks really paid off yesterday in the prison and the other times we have met with opposing teams after playing them. I am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.
Here is the link(click here for photos) once again to the photos I have uploaded. I wish I had some photos from Soledad prison, but for obvious reasons we were not allowed to take cameras in with us.
I was standing up stairs trying to figure out a fax machine and a real quick rumble and sway occurred. My first reaction was "who slammed a door?" I was then told we just had an earthquake. The 3.2's are the best I imagine, a quick jolt with no damage. Now that I have felt one I am good for a lifetime.
Today started off with our last service at West Hills, the host Church in the Gilroy/Morgan Hill/San Martin area. We had the rest of the day off and my family and I ventured off to Monterey for the last time. We had fun spending some quality time together at the beach and then walking around Cannery Row.
Kirkland put together some documentaries for you, the video is below.
Well, this might be my last post for a few days, not sure. We fly out to Anchorage, Alaska tomorrow around 7 pm and not sure when I will have internet access again. Keep checking back soon.
This leg of the journey has been great. The weather has been incredible, the host families have made everything much easier for all of us and West Hills Community Church has been great in providing us with accommodations.
Our team has grown on the field and off. It has been rewarding watching these guys come together for discipleship. Their training over the last couple of weeks really paid off yesterday in the prison and the other times we have met with opposing teams after playing them. I am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.
Here is the link(click here for photos) once again to the photos I have uploaded. I wish I had some photos from Soledad prison, but for obvious reasons we were not allowed to take cameras in with us.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Prison, BBQ and water
I just noticed I have not posted since Tuesday. It has been a busy week and a'lot has been accomplished.
On Wednesday we traveled to San Fran and spent the latter half of the day touring the city and down at the Fisherman's Wharf. We then went to Oakland and watched the A's handle the Yankees. Kirkland was not happy that his rally cap did not pull the boys from New York through in the end. It was a good day as we spent some quality time with the family and the team all in one day. I know everyone enjoyed the tour and the game. By the way, Oakland fans have to run a close second to Yankee fans, very boisterous at best!
After a long day on Wednesday we got back to some discipleship on Thursday morning and then an afternoon practice.
On Friday we traveled to San Jose and played a DH with the Maxim Yankees. They are a summer collegiate team comprised of mainly west coast baseball players. We did not give a good performance and dropped both games. The losses brought our record to 3-2 on the California trip. You could tell the guys were tired, it was even evident in the morning discipleship. We are learning very quickly how tiring the summer will be at times. No matter how much rest you get, it's still not like sleeping in your own bed. I know by the end of the summer we will all be ready for a break.
Today was a life changing day. Ever had one of those? You know, the kind of day that makes you sit back and wonder what your purpose in life is. The kind of day that makes you ponder if you are doing what you want to do or what God wants you to do.
The day started off at 5:30am and then off to my van route and picking up the guys for our 7:00am departure to Soledad Prison. It was going to be a day to remember.
We arrived at Soledad shortly after 8:00am, unloaded and then presented our id's at the front gate. We then took off our belts and shoes, stepped through a metal detector and through a gate that separated us from freedom. Hearing the gates lock behind us and looking in the eyes of the players is something I will never forget.
We were there to play two softball games and mingle through the crowd handing out and discussing the brochures we give to other teams.
We entered the "yard" fully dressed in our uniforms and greeted right off with a row of inmates laughing, cheering, jeering and some generally trying to scare us to death. I think their planned worked for the first few minutes.
As we made our way to the "field" we were greeted by what seemed like a sea of prisoners. They were all over the place. Some were working out in the makeshift "weight room", others were playing basketball, running, sitting in groups and then there was the "crowd". The crowd was made up of a mixture of inmates. Some were pulling for us and others against us. I don't know an exact amount, but a very conservative figure would be roughly around 250-300 inmates around us at all times.
Soledad houses numerous inmates from lifers to those that will be getting out in a year or less. We were in a "yard" that housed most of the guys getting ready to leave within the year.
As the game started I looked over to the thirdbase coaches box and realized that I had to go over and stand there in front of their dugout as we hit. As I ran across the infield to the coaches box I was looking for the guards that would be standing near me. The closer I got the more I realized that the guards would not be around me and that I would be standing within five feet of men that only knew one way of life, the Soledad version. It was a long first inning, very long.
As the game and day progressed I noticed a change in me and the guys. We were not all huddled together anymore and we were not walking around looking over our shoulder. We were slowly being accepted, welcomed and even invited into their world.
As the first game ended and we started the second game I had the chance to walk around the "yard" and meet with some of the men. I grabbed some brochures and took off, having no idea where I would stop and initiate the first conversation.
I walked behind the homeplate backstop and shook some hands and signed some brochures. It was amazing how many of the men wanted us to sign the brochures where our photos are so they could send to their kids and/or keep in their lockers. It was like we were back in the elementary schools reading to the kids and then being asked for our autographs. The only difference and BIG difference was that these "kids" were men serving time for mistakes they had made out in what we call the real world.
I met an inmate from LA and we talked for about 20 minutes. Our conversation turned personal as he wished me a Happy Fathers Day. I soon learned that he had two daughters and he showed me their photos. We had a great conversation of how God is working in his life and how he knows God is in control.
I continued along the "yard" and soon met another man who has been serving 15 years and looking to be released in eight months. Can you imagine 15 years being told when to get up, when to eat and when to go to bed for the night. His concern was how he would manage life outside the prison gates. Our conversation then turned to our brochure and I was met head-on with my first encounter of a non-believer this summer. I knew it would come soon enough, I just never counted on it being behind a prison gate. We discussed what it means to be separated from God as a sinner, what it takes to become a Christian and how to accept Christ. Wow!! What a conversation that was. Have you ever been asked point blank, "tell me why so many people say that we are born sinners, yet we still have the chance to accept Christ." We talked for about 20 minutes and then he left. He came back shortly with a poem describing how people wear masks and he proceeded to tell me how the mask I had on at the time was professional. It was a great conversation and he promised me if I read his poem he would read our brochure again tonight. I know a seed was planted and I thank God that I had the opportunity to talk with him. I will never know if "BM" accepts Christ until one day I hopefully see him in heaven.
Several other conversations followed, some with believers and other conversations with non-believers. These conversations occurred all over the "yard" with our entire team. I was so excited, proud and moved to see everyone setting aside any fears within and being open and honest with these men. This is a day I will never forget, never.
The evening ended with a team and host family BBQ. We all met at a host family for an incredible spread of steak, sausage, multiple pasta salads, chips fruit and dessert. The food was great!!
The guys played basketball, took advantage of the trampoline, swimming pool and just shared good times with the host families in attendance. As the evening wore on it seems that some of the players decided to take Chris Beck to the pool, not by his free will I might add. A struggle ensued and the game was on. Chris was eventually overtaken by the dozen or so players and the tradition was underway. I watched as they took down other members of the staff and then realized my time was nearing. A quick sprint to the other side of the huge yard would not spare me as they guys took me down and carried me off to the pool. It was really fun to connect with these guys today. Summer league baseball allows for a connection unlike the norm for most players and coaches.
It was a great day of meeting new people, eating some great food and planting some seeds that could be harvested any day. If you are following along with daily prayers please take just a minute and pray for the men we met today. Pray for the harvesting of the seeds we planted and pray specifically for Shelley and Bobby.
Tomorrow is an off day as we will go to the host Church for the final time for worship and then prepare for the five hour flight to Anchorage on Monday. The first leg of our trip is nearing a close and it has been a great adventure so far.
On Wednesday we traveled to San Fran and spent the latter half of the day touring the city and down at the Fisherman's Wharf. We then went to Oakland and watched the A's handle the Yankees. Kirkland was not happy that his rally cap did not pull the boys from New York through in the end. It was a good day as we spent some quality time with the family and the team all in one day. I know everyone enjoyed the tour and the game. By the way, Oakland fans have to run a close second to Yankee fans, very boisterous at best!
After a long day on Wednesday we got back to some discipleship on Thursday morning and then an afternoon practice.
On Friday we traveled to San Jose and played a DH with the Maxim Yankees. They are a summer collegiate team comprised of mainly west coast baseball players. We did not give a good performance and dropped both games. The losses brought our record to 3-2 on the California trip. You could tell the guys were tired, it was even evident in the morning discipleship. We are learning very quickly how tiring the summer will be at times. No matter how much rest you get, it's still not like sleeping in your own bed. I know by the end of the summer we will all be ready for a break.
Today was a life changing day. Ever had one of those? You know, the kind of day that makes you sit back and wonder what your purpose in life is. The kind of day that makes you ponder if you are doing what you want to do or what God wants you to do.
The day started off at 5:30am and then off to my van route and picking up the guys for our 7:00am departure to Soledad Prison. It was going to be a day to remember.
We arrived at Soledad shortly after 8:00am, unloaded and then presented our id's at the front gate. We then took off our belts and shoes, stepped through a metal detector and through a gate that separated us from freedom. Hearing the gates lock behind us and looking in the eyes of the players is something I will never forget.
We were there to play two softball games and mingle through the crowd handing out and discussing the brochures we give to other teams.
We entered the "yard" fully dressed in our uniforms and greeted right off with a row of inmates laughing, cheering, jeering and some generally trying to scare us to death. I think their planned worked for the first few minutes.
As we made our way to the "field" we were greeted by what seemed like a sea of prisoners. They were all over the place. Some were working out in the makeshift "weight room", others were playing basketball, running, sitting in groups and then there was the "crowd". The crowd was made up of a mixture of inmates. Some were pulling for us and others against us. I don't know an exact amount, but a very conservative figure would be roughly around 250-300 inmates around us at all times.
Soledad houses numerous inmates from lifers to those that will be getting out in a year or less. We were in a "yard" that housed most of the guys getting ready to leave within the year.
As the game started I looked over to the thirdbase coaches box and realized that I had to go over and stand there in front of their dugout as we hit. As I ran across the infield to the coaches box I was looking for the guards that would be standing near me. The closer I got the more I realized that the guards would not be around me and that I would be standing within five feet of men that only knew one way of life, the Soledad version. It was a long first inning, very long.
As the game and day progressed I noticed a change in me and the guys. We were not all huddled together anymore and we were not walking around looking over our shoulder. We were slowly being accepted, welcomed and even invited into their world.
As the first game ended and we started the second game I had the chance to walk around the "yard" and meet with some of the men. I grabbed some brochures and took off, having no idea where I would stop and initiate the first conversation.
I walked behind the homeplate backstop and shook some hands and signed some brochures. It was amazing how many of the men wanted us to sign the brochures where our photos are so they could send to their kids and/or keep in their lockers. It was like we were back in the elementary schools reading to the kids and then being asked for our autographs. The only difference and BIG difference was that these "kids" were men serving time for mistakes they had made out in what we call the real world.
I met an inmate from LA and we talked for about 20 minutes. Our conversation turned personal as he wished me a Happy Fathers Day. I soon learned that he had two daughters and he showed me their photos. We had a great conversation of how God is working in his life and how he knows God is in control.
I continued along the "yard" and soon met another man who has been serving 15 years and looking to be released in eight months. Can you imagine 15 years being told when to get up, when to eat and when to go to bed for the night. His concern was how he would manage life outside the prison gates. Our conversation then turned to our brochure and I was met head-on with my first encounter of a non-believer this summer. I knew it would come soon enough, I just never counted on it being behind a prison gate. We discussed what it means to be separated from God as a sinner, what it takes to become a Christian and how to accept Christ. Wow!! What a conversation that was. Have you ever been asked point blank, "tell me why so many people say that we are born sinners, yet we still have the chance to accept Christ." We talked for about 20 minutes and then he left. He came back shortly with a poem describing how people wear masks and he proceeded to tell me how the mask I had on at the time was professional. It was a great conversation and he promised me if I read his poem he would read our brochure again tonight. I know a seed was planted and I thank God that I had the opportunity to talk with him. I will never know if "BM" accepts Christ until one day I hopefully see him in heaven.
Several other conversations followed, some with believers and other conversations with non-believers. These conversations occurred all over the "yard" with our entire team. I was so excited, proud and moved to see everyone setting aside any fears within and being open and honest with these men. This is a day I will never forget, never.
The evening ended with a team and host family BBQ. We all met at a host family for an incredible spread of steak, sausage, multiple pasta salads, chips fruit and dessert. The food was great!!
The guys played basketball, took advantage of the trampoline, swimming pool and just shared good times with the host families in attendance. As the evening wore on it seems that some of the players decided to take Chris Beck to the pool, not by his free will I might add. A struggle ensued and the game was on. Chris was eventually overtaken by the dozen or so players and the tradition was underway. I watched as they took down other members of the staff and then realized my time was nearing. A quick sprint to the other side of the huge yard would not spare me as they guys took me down and carried me off to the pool. It was really fun to connect with these guys today. Summer league baseball allows for a connection unlike the norm for most players and coaches.
It was a great day of meeting new people, eating some great food and planting some seeds that could be harvested any day. If you are following along with daily prayers please take just a minute and pray for the men we met today. Pray for the harvesting of the seeds we planted and pray specifically for Shelley and Bobby.
Tomorrow is an off day as we will go to the host Church for the final time for worship and then prepare for the five hour flight to Anchorage on Monday. The first leg of our trip is nearing a close and it has been a great adventure so far.
Bush Man
I thought our tour of San Fran, Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 was going to end without seeing the infamous "bush man". Fortunately, one block away from where we were parked we ran into a large crowd just standing around with cameras drawn. It was him!!
The concept is simple. A man sits on the street with two bushes and scares people as they walk by. He then stands up and asks for donations.
I did not count his collection, but based on the outpouring support of the people near us he makes more in a day than I do.
Enjoy the video.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Sharing with others.........
On Monday we met just prior to leaving for a doubleheader down in Monterey and Bruce led the guys in a training session on how to share your faith. He did a great job in relating ways to "break the ice" and how to walk your way through sharing your faith with others. We met for about 45 minutes and then traveled down to beat the Monterey Bay Sox 5-1 and 12-1. It was a great day!
Our families(Gillespie/Beck) and host families made the trip down and watched some good baseball in outstanding weather. It was good to have a large contingency of "AIA Fans" watching us play. The host families are really great here in the Gilroy/Morgan Hill/San Martin area. They really greet and make the players and families feel at home. The host family concept is working well here in this part of California.
Quinn Clair met with the Bay Sox and passed out some brochures after the doubleheader. Quinn is a returner from last year's team and is originally from Oregon. Quinn and Nick Crawford are the first two I pick up each morning on my van route. Each staff member has about 4-6 players we pick up each day. Along with Quinn and Nick, I have Tobias Streich, Kevin Winn, Tim Urbanowicz and Cody Brown. Quinn is from Cuesta College, Nick is from UAB, Tobias is from West Virginia, Kevin is from La. Tech, Tim is from Wheaton and Cody is from Liberty Univ. I hope to introduce them all as the summer progresses.
We met for discipleship again this morning just before lunch and then traveled back to Valley for an afternoon practice.
On Wednesday we take the day off and travel in for a tour of San Fran and then off to Oakland for the A's and Yankees. Should be another good day.
I added some more photos from our trip to Monterey Bay/Pebble Beach/Carmel, you may see this by clicking here.
Our families(Gillespie/Beck) and host families made the trip down and watched some good baseball in outstanding weather. It was good to have a large contingency of "AIA Fans" watching us play. The host families are really great here in the Gilroy/Morgan Hill/San Martin area. They really greet and make the players and families feel at home. The host family concept is working well here in this part of California.
Quinn Clair met with the Bay Sox and passed out some brochures after the doubleheader. Quinn is a returner from last year's team and is originally from Oregon. Quinn and Nick Crawford are the first two I pick up each morning on my van route. Each staff member has about 4-6 players we pick up each day. Along with Quinn and Nick, I have Tobias Streich, Kevin Winn, Tim Urbanowicz and Cody Brown. Quinn is from Cuesta College, Nick is from UAB, Tobias is from West Virginia, Kevin is from La. Tech, Tim is from Wheaton and Cody is from Liberty Univ. I hope to introduce them all as the summer progresses.
We met for discipleship again this morning just before lunch and then traveled back to Valley for an afternoon practice.
On Wednesday we take the day off and travel in for a tour of San Fran and then off to Oakland for the A's and Yankees. Should be another good day.
I added some more photos from our trip to Monterey Bay/Pebble Beach/Carmel, you may see this by clicking here.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Electric.......
Saturday night we played our first game of the season up in Marysville, California against the Yuba Sutter Sox and won 5-4. It was an incredible atmosphere as 3, 360 fans were in attendance.
The Sox were holding "faith night" and had a christian band in concert just after our batting practice and about 45 minutes before the game. Former MLB pitcher Dave Dravecky was in attendance and presented an award to a young fan and then gave his testimony after the game. It was a great venue and the game was exciting as we held off a late rally by the Sox in the bottom of the ninth to hold on for the win.
It was also our first opportunity to meet with another team and that was an impressive sight to see about 50 college players meeting under a single tent to hear Chris Beck's testimony and Bruce share with the guys.
It was a very unique experience to meet with the other team and share the gift that Jesus Christ will provide if we accept him as a our personal savior. I am really looking forward to the other games and devotions we will have this summer.
We went to the local host Church today, West Hills in Morgan Hill, California. It was a packed service with no open seats. Our entire team was in attendance for the message. It was good to meet with some of the individuals that are making the host family process a success.
We had the rest of the day off and my family and I took in some sight-seeing. We headed south down Hwy 101, then to the famous Hwy 1 route and viewed some of the most incredible landscaping I have ever come in contact with.
I hope to have the photos up soon as we went to The Fisherman's Wharf and Monterey Bay. We then continued down the winding coast line and visited Pebble Beach, what an awesome course! The trip ended with some beach time at Carmel. Not much water time though, it was freezing.
It has been a very good day and I am anticipating another great day tomorrow. We will head back to Monterey Bay for a doubleheader in the afternoon.
The Sox were holding "faith night" and had a christian band in concert just after our batting practice and about 45 minutes before the game. Former MLB pitcher Dave Dravecky was in attendance and presented an award to a young fan and then gave his testimony after the game. It was a great venue and the game was exciting as we held off a late rally by the Sox in the bottom of the ninth to hold on for the win.
It was also our first opportunity to meet with another team and that was an impressive sight to see about 50 college players meeting under a single tent to hear Chris Beck's testimony and Bruce share with the guys.
It was a very unique experience to meet with the other team and share the gift that Jesus Christ will provide if we accept him as a our personal savior. I am really looking forward to the other games and devotions we will have this summer.
We went to the local host Church today, West Hills in Morgan Hill, California. It was a packed service with no open seats. Our entire team was in attendance for the message. It was good to meet with some of the individuals that are making the host family process a success.
We had the rest of the day off and my family and I took in some sight-seeing. We headed south down Hwy 101, then to the famous Hwy 1 route and viewed some of the most incredible landscaping I have ever come in contact with.
I hope to have the photos up soon as we went to The Fisherman's Wharf and Monterey Bay. We then continued down the winding coast line and visited Pebble Beach, what an awesome course! The trip ended with some beach time at Carmel. Not much water time though, it was freezing.
It has been a very good day and I am anticipating another great day tomorrow. We will head back to Monterey Bay for a doubleheader in the afternoon.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Catching up......
Ok, I missed posting yesterday but I had a good reason. Adjusting to the time change has been rough. Kirkland and I seem to be struggling the most as we wake up way too early and just can't get back to sleep. Last night was tough, although I have to admit having the window open next to our bed was great. I can only imagine how humid it would be doing that back home in SC. Check out the photo to the left, it is our view each morning as the sun comes up and yes, the sun comes up everyday with hardly any clouds. We only have about 9 days left of this view before we head to Alaska. We will miss this area, but we must carry on.
We have been meeting the last two days at 9am for discipleship training, eating lunch around 11:30am and then heading to the field for a 1pm practice. Bruce has been leading some really good devotional and training sessions for everyone. Bruce is a member of the AIA staff and is headquartered at the University of Michigan. He is doing a great job working with the entire team and with the guys on an individual basis. This morning he worked with the guys on their testimony and how to prepare/share it with others. He is just one of several we have here with us in California, I will being you up to speed on everyone else as the days go by.
Practice has been going good as well. We practice at a local high school and the field is amazing. It has a turf infield/oufield, but the amazing part is the view. This photo does not come close to doing it justice and I don't have the words to describe the view. Standing out at second base you can see the hills behind home plate.
We have our first game on Saturday as we travel about 2.5 hours to Yuba City. We will take batting practice around 5:30pm then enjoy a concert sponsored by the Christian Business Alliance. Former MLB pitcher Dave Dravecky will be in attendance as well and free Bibles will be handed out to those in attendance. It should be a great trip and a large crowd is expected.
Click here to view some photos from the trip. More to come later...........
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Day Three......Shuttle Bus
Today was "shuttle day" as members of the staff took vans to the San Jose Airport to pick up the players. We guys started arriving around 1015am and will conclude sometime later this weekend. The majority of guys will be in tonight, but about 4-5 are coming in late due to post-season and other various reasons.
It was good to meet the guys that will be sharing, learning and growing in Christ. This group will also be challenged on the diamond as the summer league is a grind, with long bus trips, late nights and more fast food than anyone cares to think about. It's still the best game in town!
We start up at 9am on Thursday with a "ground rules" session, discipleship training, lunch, practice, dinner then back to the host families for a little rest before it starts all over on Friday. It will be exciting meeting the guys tomorrow and seeing them in their environment. They seem to be anxious as I am.
Tammy, Kirkland and Kaylee went out to Santa Cruz Beach and the Boardwalk, the only major seaside amusement park on the west coast. I don't think they even knew I was missing. They seemed to really enjoy the day.
We are all slowly getting on west coast time. The first night Kirkland and I woke up at 4:15am and could not get back to sleep. We were wide awake, it was incredible.
Well, off to finish some work before turning in for the night. Each coach is responsible for picking up some players each morning from their host family. I have three stops to make and I need to Google them before the sun comes up.
Before I go I wanted to start something new each day and provide a "story of the day". Among many stories to tell, this will give one of the funniest/strangest/odd stories of the day and best of all it is true.
Tuesday-You can get sunburn in 70 degree weather and no humidity. Trust me I know....we were working outside packing bags and my head got fried. It just sneaks up on you. It was great to work outside in June and not sweat though!!
Wednesday- One of our players was delayed in Atlanta because an FAA official was flying in and deemed the stickers on the emergency exit as too faded. They had to exit the plane, wait 2 hours then re-board. Let's hope they take better care of the landing gear than they do the instruction stickers for the exits!!
Well, off to Google some directions then turning in for the night.
It was good to meet the guys that will be sharing, learning and growing in Christ. This group will also be challenged on the diamond as the summer league is a grind, with long bus trips, late nights and more fast food than anyone cares to think about. It's still the best game in town!
We start up at 9am on Thursday with a "ground rules" session, discipleship training, lunch, practice, dinner then back to the host families for a little rest before it starts all over on Friday. It will be exciting meeting the guys tomorrow and seeing them in their environment. They seem to be anxious as I am.
Tammy, Kirkland and Kaylee went out to Santa Cruz Beach and the Boardwalk, the only major seaside amusement park on the west coast. I don't think they even knew I was missing. They seemed to really enjoy the day.
We are all slowly getting on west coast time. The first night Kirkland and I woke up at 4:15am and could not get back to sleep. We were wide awake, it was incredible.
Well, off to finish some work before turning in for the night. Each coach is responsible for picking up some players each morning from their host family. I have three stops to make and I need to Google them before the sun comes up.
Before I go I wanted to start something new each day and provide a "story of the day". Among many stories to tell, this will give one of the funniest/strangest/odd stories of the day and best of all it is true.
Tuesday-You can get sunburn in 70 degree weather and no humidity. Trust me I know....we were working outside packing bags and my head got fried. It just sneaks up on you. It was great to work outside in June and not sweat though!!
Wednesday- One of our players was delayed in Atlanta because an FAA official was flying in and deemed the stickers on the emergency exit as too faded. They had to exit the plane, wait 2 hours then re-board. Let's hope they take better care of the landing gear than they do the instruction stickers for the exits!!
Well, off to Google some directions then turning in for the night.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Getting settled in......
The flight from Atlanta to San Fran was great and that's coming from an inexperienced flyer that hates to fly. I was told it was good that we were on the wing, helped with stability, but limited our view down below. I will take that trade-off any day.
The view was great. I hope to have photos soon loaded on this site and another one as well. It is amazing to see God's country that high up. The Rockies were incredible, neat to see snow in June.
We arrived in San Fran and met up with some AIA staff then headed off to our host family. The Craig's are very nice people and extremely open with their home. They live in a beautiful section of California called Gilmore....garlic capitol of the world according to the flags and signs all over. The fruit here is amazing as is the weather. Mid 70's and no humidity. The landscape is something I have never seen before, photos to be loaded soon.
We had a staff meeting earlier this morning and then prepared the bags for the players. They will arrive on Wednesday throughout the day starting at 9am going until about 5pm. It will be a longday shuttling them from the airport to the their host families, but will give some time to start building relationships.
We had our "last supper" tonight with the other members of the staff. After tonight the guys come in and the fun starts. Remember them on Wednesday as they fly in from all over the country. We have a great group that seems to be passionate about lives being changed and baseball. What a great combo!!
The view was great. I hope to have photos soon loaded on this site and another one as well. It is amazing to see God's country that high up. The Rockies were incredible, neat to see snow in June.
We arrived in San Fran and met up with some AIA staff then headed off to our host family. The Craig's are very nice people and extremely open with their home. They live in a beautiful section of California called Gilmore....garlic capitol of the world according to the flags and signs all over. The fruit here is amazing as is the weather. Mid 70's and no humidity. The landscape is something I have never seen before, photos to be loaded soon.
We had a staff meeting earlier this morning and then prepared the bags for the players. They will arrive on Wednesday throughout the day starting at 9am going until about 5pm. It will be a longday shuttling them from the airport to the their host families, but will give some time to start building relationships.
We had our "last supper" tonight with the other members of the staff. After tonight the guys come in and the fun starts. Remember them on Wednesday as they fly in from all over the country. We have a great group that seems to be passionate about lives being changed and baseball. What a great combo!!
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Kicking it off right............
Thanks to my cousin who lives in Alpharetta we just got treated to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. Great way to start the trip off!! Thanks, Trav......
We are in Atlanta spending the night right near the airport so we can get an early start in the morning.
For everyone following along.....I am guessing about 3 people, 5 once my parents get connected to DSL on Tuesday, are checking this blog out. For those of you out there we all say "thanks" for sharing this journey with us.
I will try and give updates as much as possible and also include some of the other players/coaches/family that are traveling with us. It's going to be a great time and I know God will have tons in store for us.
That's all for tonight, it is time to get the kids in bed....early to rise!
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