2004 Journal Quilts

April 2004

The 1st Monday in April signals The End of The Void - that period between the final game of the World Series and Opening Day (George Will). I love baseball. Along with other fans, I renew my vows to the sport every spring. Baseball is close to a religion. I support my team, the Cincinnati Reds, win or lose, regardless of where they are in the standings. They may be bums, but they are MY bums. I love going to games and watching them on tv. I keep score when I see a game in person. Always. That started in high school, when I was Official Scorer for the Indian Lake Lakers. I've been to Major League games, AAA games, Arizona Fall League, spring training, high school, college games & Little League games. Parks & Rec games where I didn't know anyone who was playing. I love baseball. Life begins when the season starts.

I've never been to an Opening Day game or seen a Findlay Market Parade. Or thrown out the 1st pitch. Or sung the Star Spangled Banner. Or seen a no-hitter, a triple play or someone hit for the cycle. What have I done? I've seen a play-off game - Philly vs. Atlanta, 1993. The Phillies won that game & went on to win the World Series. I saw Ryne Sandberg hit his 1st career grand slam (San Diego, 1992) & Jose Rijo throw a 2-hitter vs. the Rockies in 1993. I've sat just down the bleachers from Joe Torre, watching an Arizona Fall League game. Me, my son - Josh, a few other fans and a lot of baseball people. I've sung Take Me Out To The Ball Game at least 1000 times.

It's April. Life has begun. Barry Bonds has already hit 9 home runs. Ken Griffey Jr is healthy. My Reds are in contention. The season is young & anything could happen. Play ball!