I've said it several times during this blog, but old friends are the best!!! My dad would agree. #188 is one of his old friends from his baseball days, that I had the pleasure of meeting years later. From what I can gather from hearing stories about the "good old days" professional baseball back then was nothing like the business it is today. Today it is about the money, the contract, the player marketability and shelf life. Back then it was about the love of the game. Players worked second jobs in the off season to make money to support their families because what they made playing ball was not enough. They did not make enough in a few seasons to have a house that could be shown on MTV Cribs, but instead make lifelong friendships that started with the camaraderie they shared with their teammates. Baseball has a lot of down time. Most games start at night and are played late into the night. Once the players get home, they sleep most of the morning, and then have some time to kill before they have to report back. Pitchers have even more down time depending on their place in the club rotation. This leaves lots of time for heart to heart talks, practical jokes, and most of all the development of good friends.
#188 is a friend my dad made while playing ball. After they both retired to their respective lives, there was a period of time that they lost touch. #188 is from New Jersey and my dad from the good old South. Then several years ago, they reconnected. My parents have gone there for a visit and he and his family have come here. In recent years, they have also traveled together to different vacation spots, mixing friends, wives, and always with a round or two of golf mixed in.
#188 knew me a little baby and now as an adult. When he and his wife have been down to visit, we always make it a point to share a meal with them. Jeff and I both really enjoy their company. We love hearing about he and my dad's days as ball players. He is also a great singer and has an acapella group that he participates in. I have several of their CDs and love to hear their harmonies.
That's him on the far left!!!
It is always interesting to me to visit with people from different parts of the U.S. and the world. I find it fascinating to hear about different cultures, traditions, foods, and even the differences in day-to-day living. It is also really fun to introduce these same people to mud bugs, swamp tours, and mosquitoes (well the last one is maybe not so fun). So #188 - just to let you know, I am glad our paths have crossed on my way to forty years. Thanks for being such a good friend to my family.
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