Long Winter

Yesterday started as a fantastic day. It ended less well.

My brother called on Friday, saying he had scored four tickets to the Red Sox playoff game for Sunday. He wanted to bring me and the boys. Isabel was about to leave for a weekend in NY with her college roommates.

We left Sunday morning at 7am for the drive to Boston. Catherine would be spending the day at the mall with her aunt and cousin after a quick visit with her noni.

My brother drove us into Boston (he knew a great parking place near Fenway -- a skill that is not to be underestimated). The weather was beautiful, perfect for a game. As a bonus, we walked past the D'Angelos near Kenmore Square where Isabel and I had our first date (back when it was called "Whippersnappers.")

Peter is, of course, the world's biggest Red Sox fan, and lives and dies with their fortunes. John had never been to a Sox game, and was most excited by the prospect of his first sausage and pepper sandwich at Fenway.

The seats were great -- 3rd base side pavillion. We could see the field beautifully, and that section has limited seating and its own concession stand -- very short lines for those sausages. That's Peter and John with the Monster behind them.

It was a great game -- Boston's bats finally woke up -- right up until the 9th inning. If you don't know the details, go look them up yourself.

It was a quiet drive back to Connecticut. Peter perked up a little as we got closer to home. But then we made the mistake of listening to the Patriots game. Again, go find the deatils on your own.

Thanks to my brother for a great day, the final score notwithstanding. Thanks to my sister-in-law, niece, and mom for taking care of my girl.

I'd say thanks to the Sox for a great season, but....I love that hot stove....