Da Braves

I did something Saturday that I haven’t done in many years. I went to Atlanta to see “America’s Team” … the Atlanta Braves.  I don’t think I’ve been to one since my son and I were sitting right behind home plate when Ron Gant blasted a grand slam that led the Braves to victory. I think it was a World series game, maybe a playoff game. I’m sure some of you out there remember. It was great. 😊 (The Good Old Days!)

We took my son and his kids to the game. Braves vs Miami Marlins.

There were a few firsts at that game:

     It was Jack’s (grandson) first MLB game. He knew lots of statistics, etc. Afterwards, Jack told us it was way better than he expected. He’s a Fan. 😊

     Also, some Major League history was made as Jen Powell made her debut as Major Leagues’ first female umpire. She started at first base and moved to third base later in the game. As she was introduced the crowd cheered. I felt good about America … Maybe we’ll continue to make progress … Thinking out of the box … losing old prejudices ... 😊

     And, I ate the biggest hot dog I’ve ever had in my illustrious career as a hot dog connoisseur … It was called a Perimeter Dog. I didn’t realize how big it was when I ordered it … it was HUGE! I took one look at it and thought “I’ll never eat all of that” … and then I did … I’m still full! …

Otherwise, it was a typical MLB game, … I guess … Truist stadium is first-class baseball, lots of food, beer, and in-between innings entertainment. Despite new technology and extremely loud speakers everywhere, We still couldn’t tell what the announcer was saying … We could figure out traditional crowd chants and enjoyed cheering along.

People watching was fun:

     There was The Expert behind us that explained every play, call, pitch, steal, and strategy to his wife and child. (and the rest of us around them)

     The large family group in front of us, 6 adults and 6 kids. Where the men drank beer and the mom’s took care of the kids. The speakers were so loud that one mom went and bought headsets for the kids, some of them were crying because of the noise.

     Various people coming and going, including the Seat Stealers, looking for better seating … and eventually getting booted out of their seats by actual ticket holders … I’m guessing the stadium was, at the most, half full … you wouldn’t have known that when trying to purchase tickets … (The sellers claimed several sections were sold out …not!)

So … after thirty-plus years … I can report that America’s pastime is doing well and hasn’t really changed much. I think I’ll try out Columbus’ Braves AA team, The Clingstones … Maybe it’ll be cheaper, easier to get to, and more fun! 😊

Life Happens Y’all … Everywhere … All the time …