Detroit Tigers

I grew up in a family that enjoyed sports.

I played some softball and basketball growing up. My dad watched football on T.V. And about once each summer we'd head to Detroit for a Tigers game.

Josh grew up in a family that LOVED sports.

He played soccer, hockey, basketball, golf, baseball, and tennis. A lot. He started going to Michigan football games at age three. His dad has had season tickets since '75 and even when they moved away from Michigan they would drive in for most games from Iowa and Wisconsin. And they went to all kinds of other major sporting events, too. Golf tournaments. Pistons games. Tigers games. Red Wings games.

So it was only fitting that, during the past two weeks when Josh's parents came to visit, he and his dad made it to three separate sporting events. And that doesn't count sports watched on TV.

All in Michigan (where most of their sports loyalties are found).
All in 8 days.

The Michigan - Western Michigan football game.

The Michigan - Notre Dame football game (and HOLY COW what a game that was. I'm still a little jumpy just thinking about it.)

And the Tigers - Blue Jays game.

Comerica Park, where the Tigers play, is an interesting place. Any place that is A) set in downtown Detroit and B) is actually nice is an interesting place in my book.



You see, Detroit is a hole. A mess. A really sad place. The median home price in the city is $7500. For six years the city was governed by an extremely corrupt mayor. This only ended last September. And when go to a Tigers game, you park in a shady-looking lot, then walk past a number of abandoned buildings, and then TA DA find yourself in the in front of the very beautiful Comerica Park. It is clean, new, and nice. Only two blocks away from your will I ever see my car again parking spot, and yet in a completely different world. It sits next to the very new and nice Ford Field. Such a weird dichotomy.

I've never been anywhere remotely like it.




Detroit, and the state it is in, is sad to me. But aside from that I do like a good old fashioned baseball game. At home, I don't really care to watch baseball on TV. I don't follow it online. But when I'm there? It's fun. Buy me some peanuts (but keep the cracker jacks!) and give me a score card.

See this face? It says I know you're taking a picture of me. And since it is your 200th picture in the last 10 minutes, I'm a little annoyed.


Get used to it, love.

That's better.


I don't know what it is, but there is just something about it.


For both the big sports fans (my husband and father-in-law) and me.

MLS, baby!

On our new-to-the-area exploration of Columbus, we've had fun checking out new restaurants, areas of town, and shopping centers. And we've also made it to the zoo and a minor league baseball game. So far, so good. And now can check off another community experience -

The professional soccer game.

Josh in particular was excited about the fact that Columbus is home to its own Major League Soccer team. For one, the man loves soccer. He follows Liverpool (English Premier League) in a major way - reading British soccer news, listening to beautifully accented soccer podcasts, and of course, watching them on TV via the extra cable package we got for that purpose.

In fact, the Liverpool game is on right now and shouts of "COME ON! THAT'S GOTTA BE A PENALTY" are coming from the man sitting ten feet away from me. Anyway.

Also, soccer is a local sport that we can join the community in supporting. This certainly can't be said for any other sport, since we arrived here with already-established sports allegiances.

Baseball? Detroit Tigers
Hockey? Detroit Red Wings
Basketball? Detroit Pistons
Pro Football? Detroit Lions
(is there an echo?)

And OF COURSE -

College Football? Michigan Wolverines

So that puts us in the position of rooting against our neighbors in almost EVERY. SINGLE. SPORT. Especially when it comes to those darned Buckeyes.

But not soccer. We have the Crew to cheer for, thankfully. Our community team.

So we went, with our six Columbus friends. To save on parking we piled all eight adults into one couple's Previa. Man those minivans come in handy!

I'm not really a fan of soccer, but was pleasantly surprised by how much fun I had. It helps to sit with girls and chat about houses, paint colors, and the little cheerleaders out of line at the halftime show.

So I'm curious.

When you move, do you support whichever the local sports teams happen to be?
Do you stick with the teams that you grew up watching?
Does it depend on the sport?
Do you even care about sports, local or otherwise?

And do you see these big, non-pixelated pictures on this post?

THANK YOU SARAH!

Well, Michigan Football is a Disappointment...

... but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy a college football game in beautiful fall weather.

Josh's parents flew in from Phoenix for the weekend and the four of us headed up to W. Lafayette on Saturday for the Michigan/Purdue game. The game was another debacle, but we managed to have fun anyway. I mean, 70 degrees on November 1st? Not too shabby.

A couple of observations from my Purdue game experience:
1. Bad rap music pumped into a college football game is a little ridiculous. So are scenes from Jaws and Jurassic Park when shown on the main scoreboard to emphasize particular plays.

2. Michigan's team is really, really awful, and we're shaping up to be the embarrassment Notre Dame was last year. We made Purdue's third string QB look good.

3. Angry, unintelligent, belligerent fans - even those that are cheering for the same team you are - sour the entire experience when you find yourself sitting in front of them.

4. The slow little train making its way across the field while the players ran out at the start of the game made me laugh. Has anyone seen this phenomenon?

5. The Boilermakers need to choose a mascot and stick with it. Is it a train? The world's largest drum? Or guy in a plastic costume known as "Purdue Pete?"

6. Getting to catch up with old college friends is a delight! I was putting ketchup on my overpriced hot dog when I heard my name being called. When I looked up, I saw Emily (who I call "Emting") and Ashleigh, who were good friends of mine at Michigan and people I rarely get to see. I sat with them during the 4th quarter and loved hearing about what they're up to - campus ministry, an upcoming wedding, plans for the future, and the like. It was wonderful to see them - what an unexpected blessing!

Its Great - To Be - A Michigan Wolverine

Because stuff like this happens.

Wisconsin lead 19-0 at halftime. The Wolverines looked baaaaad the first half. We're talking lifeless. Negative passing yards, and only 21 yards total. Josh and I were there in the stands, watching every painful three-and-out and every stupid turnover.

AND THEN

They scored 27 straight, and only let Wisonsin score 6 more points after that. The stadium went from dead silent disgust to wild, crazy, and excited. It was incredible to behold. LOVE IT.

Biggest comeback in Michigan Stadium history. Second biggest of all time.

GO. BLUE.

College Football - Coming Soon!

We're getting totally and completely excited for this to start up again:

We even watched the famed 1997 game against Ohio State yesterday, just because we were in the mood. I just added http://www.mgoblog.com/ to my reader.

Less than two weeks, people. College football. Just around the corner.

It makes me do a little dance in my computer chair. Is anyone else out there excited? At all?

*******

Update: After Julie's comment to this point, I desperately need to share the story of "amazing" jello.

A couple of years ago Josh and I decided to have people over to watch one of Michigan's big games. I told my friends Julie and Kara that I'd make U of Michigan-themed cookies and "maize and blue" jello for the big event.

Which then promted this question from the two of them (who do live in the state of Michigan, albiet under a rock):

Amazing Blue jello? What makes it so amazing?

You know, maize and blue? The team's colors?

And with that, I hope you enjoy the "amazing green" (for Sparty of course) jello, Jules.

Fond PGA Moments

So the PGA Championship was a lot of fun.

Golf is one of those sports that I've always tolerated. I don't get super into it, but I don't hate it either. Josh has always been a huge fan - both playing and watching - and between him and my dad I have been given at least have a working knowledge of the game. It just isn't all that exciting to me. But when we were able to get tickets to the PGA for this past weekend, I was totally on board. I mean, how many opportunties do you get to see a big time sporting event - for free? (Thank you Mom and Dad and Bart, by the way!)

There are a lot of things to enjoy - walking the gorgeous course, watching big name golfers putt, and of course, checking out the gift shop. I could have done without the downpour on Saturday, but what can you do? And who doesn't need an extra shower, really?

Sunday we spent a good chunk of time at the 18th green, watching the players finish up. It was pretty exciting to see this, from pretty close by:

For those of you who don't follow golf, that was Padraig Harrington after he putted in to win.

Another highlight for me, I have to admit, was judging the golfer outfits. I mean, some of them really have some style! Some - not so much. I told Josh I'd really like to see him sporting outfits like Camilo Villegas and Ian Poulter (below). Don't you think he'd look pretty sweet in all black with yellow accents? Or perhaps pink plaid pants?

And while we're on the subject of Villegas, I think it would be pretty hysterical for him to break out the "Spiderman" move the next time he is out golfing with his friends.

Quick Update

Things are BUSY around here, but wanted to give you an update on life!

1. Our ant problems are at an all-time high (or is it low?) In any case, they're bad. We came home from Target last night to find at least 300 teeming ants on our windowsill, wall, and counter-top. Gave me the HEEBY JEEBIES. If the apartment complex does not send out a professional this time around they are going to HEAR IT from me! Because really, that is ridiculous.

And I promise you it is not because we're THAT messy of people. During the incident last night the only dirty/food-ish things on the counter top were some of Riley's bones. No dirty dishes in the sink or normal food left on the counter. Nope.

I took a picture but it is way too gross to share.

2. We have started to play tennis again! Yay! Josh basically taught me how soon after we got married, and we've enjoyed playing together ever since. You know, active, outside, good exercise... all of that. And it is finally warm enough, even if the court is super wet from all the downpours we've gotten lately. Last night we went even though it was still raining. It just feels good to be outside.

Granted, tennis does tend to bring out one of my worst character flaws (fierce competitiveness coupled with a bad attitude when I'm not playing well) but so far this year I've managed to keep it together.

And now that we have Riley he just comes along and chases balls around. Fun for the whole family.

3. I'm off to Springfield and then St. Louis this week.

4. I think we've finally found somewhere to live, and it is in St. Joe and NOT in a hotel. Yay!

Smiling

I have two big reasons to smile today:

1. Riley is back at home with us. My parents took care of him while we were gone and they were nice enough to meet up with us in Merrillville last night for the hand off. (Thanks again, guys!)

2. March Madness starts soon and "bracketing" is a non-negotiable item on my agenda today. I love the NCAA Basketball tournament. And I'm so very excited that a team I care about (Go Hoosiers!) is actually competing. Michigan, sadly, hasn't made the cut in awhile. Each year Josh and I put stakes on our brackets and compete against each other in addition to other pools we're in. If I win, he has to take me out for Chinese food. I haven't beat him yet, but THIS IS MY YEAR.

Mas Divertido En B. A.

... Which means ¨More Fun In B. A.¨

Yes, we´re continuing to enjoy our time here! We´ve toured a famous graveyard (where Evita is buried), watched a tango show, and have had many interesting broken Spanish conversations with cab drivers throughout town. And THANK YOU JAMIE I have only bought 1 purse. Maaaybe another tomorrow. We´ll see.

Josh has SO enjoyed studying soccer in S. America. Yesterday the boys got to go to a game, which was super interesting and fun. And from what I understand kind of vulgar and crazy. I believe there was spitting involved. People around here are INTENSE about soccer.

And then today they met with people connected to the very popular Boca Juniors team and even got a tour of the stadium. To put it in perspective, it would be like a group of Argentinian college students meeting with people at the Yankees and getting to tour the field. Big stuff around here, and way fun for them. Their amazing contact, who got them the ïn¨with the team, was actually a Kelley alum that graduated in 1995. He now works for a credit card company that sponsors the team.

The guy was even nice enough to have the entire group over for dinner at his house. And the other ¨soccer wives¨and I got to tag along to that part of the fun. I haven´t had a better meal since I´ve been in S. America. WHAT hospitality... we were served, among other goodies, a few different salads and salsas, lots of red wine, bread, what seemed like an entire cow, nine different varieties of ice cream (Josh tried every one), tea, and cookies. We really had an excellent time with him and his family all evening. The kids (10 & 13) spoke great English and we were able to joke around and have fun with them too. We plan to send them a ¨care package¨complete with the favorite American items for the kids once we return home. Yes, we were surprised to find out how excited they were about such American staples as Cocoa Puffs, Pop Tarts, and Gap sweatshirts. And magazines focused on Miley Cyrus.

And holy cow they had a beautiful home. So great to experience ¨real home cookin¨(well, from a hired chef) in a home and not a hotel. Huge blessing.

To leave you with a random B. A. tidbit - the baked good of choice around here consists of two cookies pasted together with either chocolate or caramel, and then rolled in either chocolate or sugar. They can be found in shops and bakeries on every block in the city. And they are excellent treats. We may smuggle some home in our luggage.

Name? Alfajors. If you know how to pronounce words in Spanish you´ll realize just how vulgar that may sound. I actually feel a little sheepish ordering them every time.

Update...

Since this crazed entry, I've had some good time to pray and seek the counsel of friends, and think I've figured out a few things about the upcoming semester...

So here is a glimpse into my life for the next few months...

1. Still planning on that mini-marathon! Yesterday I actually ran 1.75 miles, more than I ever have before, and it just about killed both me and Riley. I know it doesn't sound like a lot, but there was a certain feeling of accomplishment there that felt good. Tomorrow is a 2 mile run... yikes.

2. Co-leading the Partners Club. Although it sounds crazy that this would be important or a big job, I really think both are true. Lots of planning, meeting with the school, answering questions of prospective partners, and social activities. Last night was a really successful event, in my opinion, the kind that reminds me that this work is worthwhile. It was just a casual get-together, but the other leaders and I made a point to call partners we don't know to personally invite them. Three "newbies" came and, as far as I can tell really enjoyed themselves. One of the girls I talked to admitted she was really lonely sitting at home in the evenings and was looking forward to making new friends with this group. With so many of us in the same boat (new town, don't know people, partner busy with school) there is no reason for people to be lonely or bored. That's why we're here.

3. Trip to South America is planned for March! Yay!

4. Although we're working out exactly when to start, we are moving forward with some other couples with a church small group on Sunday evenings. At least two other couples are interested, and we're looking forward to that.

5. Very excited about this as well. Although I know I'll have to miss some sessions here and there, I'm starting this Beth Moore Bible study at church on Wednesday. I'll have almost daily homework, but think the discipline and accountability will be good for me.

-

What I'm cutting out, however, is KATS. Back in November, I had agreed to do it again in the spring semester, and I hadn't wanted to back out. But I explained my situation to the organizer, who is also a good friend of mine, and she said it wouldn't be a huge problem on her end for me to change my mind. So I won't be making the extra cash this semester, but there are more important things than that!

-

Now I'm off to do some house cleaning in preparation for my parents to visit. They'll be here until Tuesday - yay :)

Thoughts for 2008

He has shown all you people what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly
and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

When I think of resolutions and goals for myself, this verse often comes to mind. I don't know that I'd call the principles listed above goals or resolutions, but more overarching truths to align my life with. Not that I'll ever "get there" (whatever that means) but I want to make it my life's work to pursue each of these things. I love both the simplicity and depth found in this verse, and am thankful that while I can get my mind around these truths with relative ease, there will always be more to learn and grow in with each.

With that in mind, I've been thinking some in the last couple of weeks about New Year's resolutions. While I agree that they're almost meant to be broken when called such, now is such a great time for new goals. Something about January says "fresh start" for me. Maybe its because I still think in terms of semesters, like I'm still in school. Now that Josh's life is again set according to a school calendar, this is even more the case.

But here are my goals for 2008:

1. Pray

Consistency in prayer has been an issue throughout my walk with God. While I understand in my head that it is important and worthwhile and good, I fail to do it on a regular basis. Like, beyond a blessing before a meal or a quick "help me." My heart isn't always into it, and this frustrates me. And then I just don't do it. Spending more time on my knees (or even talking to God while soaking in a bubble bath) is definitely on my list of goals.

2. Serve

In some capacity or another, I want to serve people in the name of Christ this year. The poor, the sick, the needy. I have a bad habit of being paralyzed by not knowing how to serve or what to get involved in. A soup kitchen? A crisis pregnancy center? Helping international families get acclamated to the States? I don't know which and I don't know how to jump in. And then I just don't. But it is my heart's desire to get out of my comfortable shell and serve others.

3. Run

Back in October, I got really excited about running. And I did it relatively consistently through Thanksgiving, which is big for unathletic me. And then I got sick and stopped doing it. BUT I'm still signed up for a mini-marathon in May and need to get in shape to run it. I don't AT ALL feel like getting off the couch and out there on the sidewalks, but I know it will be good for me on several levels. So here we go.

So there we have it. Don't know how all this will pan out, but those goals are on my heart and mind right now for 2008. I think these specific goals fit relatively well with my "life verse" (hey, I can run humbly with God too, right? :)). I hope so.

Two Words.

GO BLUE

So fun to watch the Wolverines eek out a victory against Florida today. After an ugly-ish season, lots of injuries, and a their long-time coach retiring, the game's underdogs beat out a SEC powerhouse armed with this year's Heisman winner.

Bliss...