My yearly thank to the seniors. Seniors 2014.

A thank-you to the seniors has become a tradition for me. I think the first time I did it was in 2009. I don't know if the players ever read it, but it makes me feel good to think they might see it.  This group of seniors has been through so much. Coaching changes,  losing seasons, a trip to the Rose Bowl, loss of teammates and the highs of award-winning performances.  There have been bumps along the way, but they have represented Auburn with class and dignity.  I did put the list in alphabetical order in case any of the players want to read about themselves; it would make it easier to find. A special dedication is at the bottom to Jakell.

To all of the seniors- please keep in touch with your Auburn family.  It means a lot to go to a game and see former players visiting the team- on the sidelines with the younger players. Thank you for everything you did for Auburn. All of you had significant contributions.

Niko Anthony: Players like you make a huge difference, even when you do not realize it.  The important thing is that you stuck it out and did not quit.  I just looked back at your major. I cannot imagine keeping to the practice and workout schedule with that kind of major. I know we are to expect great things from you in the future. Thank you for your dedication to Auburn.  Please keep in touch with the fans and the team/school.

Cameron Artis-Payne: From the A- day game on, you showed that you gave your best all of the time. You seemed to fit in immediately. You always spoke well in interviews. Thank you for coming to Auburn. It was an honor to cheer for you.  You seemed to take everything in stride.  It was a lot of fun to watch you run. You have a quiet leadership that truly shows. Thank you for your dedication to Auburn. I look forward to meeting you at the Senior Bowl. I also look forward to hearing great things about you in the future. War Eagle!

Angelo Blackson: I like your name. My mom noticed it right away when you first started at Auburn. She had a friend named Angelo. He was a legendary track coach and he died a few years ago. So she naturally paid extra attention to you.  It was a joy to watch you play. Thank you so much for coming to Auburn. Thanks for all of your hard work and dedication.  I look forward to hearing about you in the future. War Eagle!

Ben Bradley: I am so glad you decided to come to Auburn. You were a quieter player, but you still made plenty of contributions. Thank you for all you have done for Auburn. Your hard worked showed. My brother-in-law and I enjoyed watching you make some nice tackles.  We look forward to hearing  great things about you in the future. I hope you stay in touch with your Auburn family. War Eagle!

Quan Bray: You are the definition of an Auburn man. Your career at Auburn started with the worst possible thing happening, but you never let it stop you. You worked hard, never quit and put your focus on the positive things. Thank you. I was so happy to see you run that return all the way back for a touchdown! We are all so proud of you. It was an honor to have you on my prayer list this year.  Thank you for everything you did at Auburn. I know we are going to see great things from you in the future.  Proud to call you a member of the AU family. War Eagle!

Sammie Coates: It has been an absolute honor to watch you play. Since your time at Leroy, you have grown as an athlete and as a man. To see you support your coaches, teammates and friends is an amazing thing. I love to see you taking pictures with kids.  The relationship you developed with Kenzie is also something amazing to see. I have been so proud to root for you. I know there are great things in store for you. Your leadership on and off the field is something that cannot be easily replaced. Your work ethic will be something that has a lasting effect on your teammates. I am excited to see you at the Senior Bowl. Please make sure you keep in touch with your Auburn family and the team. Thank you for everything you have done at Auburn.

Reese Dismukes:  I have watched you play since high school. I am so very proud of the player, person, and leader that you have become. Auburn has rarely had a player that has been as dedicated. No, it wasn't perfect. So much has happened while you were  at Auburn but you didn't let that stop you. You kept at it and became one of the most prolific players Auburn has had. Congratulations on the Rimington Trophy. No one deserved it like you did. Thank you for your dedication to Auburn. I cannot wait to see you at the Senior Bowl. I hope you keep in touch with the Auburn family and program. Come back and visit when you can.  War Eagle!

Brandon Fulse:  There are some things that trip us up in life. I know you were close with Philip. He would have been proud of you this year. You made some great grabs and continued the line of tight ends at Auburn. Thanks for your dedication and time to Auburn. I look forward to seeing great things from you in the future. War Eagle.

Corey Grant: I remember the first time I saw you run a longer run. I thought you must have a gear that other humans don't have. I was rooting for a TD in the Iron Bowl so much for you!  I am glad you came 'home' to Auburn to play for us. Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn. I enjoyed rooting or you the last couple of years. Visit often! We will miss you. War Eagle!

Forrest Hill: I know you probably think your position is not noticed, but it is. You've been very steady. We seldom heard your name, so you know you did your job. We are DEFINIETLY going to miss that! I know it's been and up and down career, but you stuck it out.  Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication. It has been noticed and appreciated. Thank you so much for everything you did.  Please stay in touch and come back and visit Auburn often. War Eagle!

Brandon King:  Thank you for your dedication to Auburn.  I am glad you came to us. The 2013 season was something to be treasured.  You were a huge part of that  season. You showed talent and poise on and off the field. I look forward to hearing great things about you in the future. Please keep in touch with the Auburn family.  Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn. War Eagle!

Nick Marshall: I know some people do not believe in second chances, but I am glad our coach does. Thank you, Nick. You gave us the most exciting season ever possible in 2013. You are a quiet leader, but still a leader. See, I love a good 'restart' story. You did it.  I am so glad you came to Auburn.  I cannot wait to see what happens for you in the future. I know it will be great. Keep in touch with Auburn as you go on. We'll be glad to have you home to visit any day.  Thank  you for all of your hard work and dedication.

Johnathan Mincy: You became one heck of an interception grabber this year. Things got tough for you, but you just worked yourself back to the top. I like that never-quit attitude. Your high work ethic is one of the things that will have a lasting effect on the younger teammates. Thank you for everything you did for Auburn.  Keep up your great work in life. You are going to do well. Thank you for your dedication to Auburn.

LaDarius Owens: When you came, we knew you would be someone we could count on because it is in your blood. Not only did you represent Auburn well, you represented your family well. Your faith helped guide you as a leader on the team. You were a rock for the team. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn. Maybe one day your son or nephew will don the uniform too. I look forward to it! I look forward to hearing about you in the future. War Eagle!

Trovon Reed: If it doesn't work out in one spot, try something else. You never seemed upset that WR did not work out for you. In fact, you used your skills as a WR to snatch some interceptions. That is the mark of a winner and an Auburn man.  Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn.  Keep up the hard work in your future endeavors. War Eagle!

Chad Slade:  It's hard to believe you're a senior! I remember reading about Thomas. The parents would often reflect on how happy you made him. I know it had to be terribly hard to watch him grow sicker, but you did not run away.  Thank you. Those things mean more than anything you could do on the field. You were pretty darn good at that too. Thank you for all you have done for Auburn. Thank you for the time, dedication, and hard work. It will pay off many fold. I know there are great things for you in the future. I cannot wait to hear about those things. War Eagle!

Robenson Therezie: Thanks for all of your hard work at Auburn. You stood out from the beginning. You turned into quite the interception-grabber. I think my favorite was probably against Ole Miss in 2009. You showed poise on and off the field. Keep that up. It will be something in your life that will help you. Stay in touch with your Auburn family and come back anytime.  War Eagle!

CJ Uzomah: I have adored watching you play. My sister and I nicknamed you 'Oomie Zoomie'. We have an unusual last name as well. Philip would have been so proud of you this year. I know it wasn't easy for you. You were a LOT of fun to watch at media days. You know, you were like the start of the fight in 2013. When you caught that pass against MSU in 2013, it just got things rolling. You have been an amazing leader. It will be a loss for us without you. However, I know you invested in the younger fellas. Thank you for all of the laughs. Thanks for all of your time and dedication to Auburn.  Please keep in touch. You will be successful in whatever you do. War Eagle, CJ.

Jeff Whitaker:  What a trouper. Oh, the highs and lows you have been through. A national championship, bad seasons, coaching changes, loss of friends and teammates, and another trip to the national championship- plus multiple injuries. Only you could have made us laugh on the worst day as a member of the AU family. Your dedication to the team and university means more than you will ever know.  Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and leadership. Your investment in the team will last longer than your time at Auburn. We are all grateful of your hard work. Thank you for everything.  I know the future holds great things for you. I cannot wait to hear about it. War Eagle.

Jermaine Whitehead: We talked once for a little while. I do not know if you remember. I told you I knew where Greenwood was since I used to live in Hattiesburg and work in Lucedale. I have been rooting for you since then. When you weren't grabbing interceptions, you were working your tail off. Thank you. It means more than you know. I look forward to hearing good things about you in the future. Please keep in touch.  Come back and visit Auburn when you can.

Gabe Wright: You were also fun to watch at media days. Through all the ups and downs over the last few years, you have grow steadily. I am so proud to call you Auburn family. You were a clear leader on and off the field.  When you weren't in the backfield, you were helping younger players find their way. Thank you for your dedication and time you have to Auburn. I am excited about meeting you at the Senior Bowl!   War Eagle! Keep in touch and please visit often.

Jakell Mitchell: We did not really get the chance to get to know you very well. At the first game this season, I sat up a few rows from your family. To see them all in their 'dad of' and 'family of' shirts told me that you were going to be something special. I heard you were a workout warrior. I am sure that your dedication in the weight room and with workouts will be a legacy. Your teammates will remember. You will be missed. Thank you for your dedication to the team and to Auburn. We are really going to miss seeing you develop and grow up. War Eagle forever.

Walking in Light

Last week, (Dec 13)  I was on a trip with a friend when I got some devastating news. The sister and father of one of my former students had been killed in a car accident. Ari was 18. She had just finished her freshman fall semester at Univ. of Louisiana-Lafayette.  She graduated from our school last year. Her father was a local beloved youth pastor. Her older brother is one of my former students. I was blessed to get to know the Wager family through a parent/family- teacher relationship at first. As time moved on, I was blessed to call them friends.

Where to start about Arianna? First of all, she was brilliant and creative. She was an excellent student. I remember her taking honors Alg. II as a freshman. She loved show choir and musical theater. She was fiercely protective of her older brother, yet she was firm with him at the same time. She was quirky. She was always smiling. The thing that stood out more than anything was that she absolutely radiated inner joy. Every time I spoke with her, she was happy. Her walk with Jesus was evident in everything she did.  She walked in grace every day of her life. A couple of summers ago, Ari went to Africa on a mission trip. I have heard many people telling me about her trip. Ari and her family told me Ari just fit there. I spoke with her on many occasions about her trip. Her heart ached to go back. There was just a oneness with her when she was in Africa. She was studying special education, but I think she might have considered full time missions in Africa.

Her father, Randy was a beloved youth minister in our small town. He moved his family to the area for the job. He was doing amazing things with this youth group. They were always doing something. He was caring and the kids were plugged in. He and his wife both frequently volunteered at the school, helping with the most mundane tasks such as helping with testing or bringing things to PTA meetings.  He was also quirky and different, but it made them a special family. It's going to be tough for his youth group. I cannot imagine that happening to my youth pastor when I was a teen.

This is an amazing family. When I went to the memorial service, my former student was the first in the family greeting people. He was standing by his sister's casket. His uncle was standing with him, but not really interacting since Uncle Dennis did not really know the people from Lucedale as well. Kegan was such a little man. He just took it. Person after person, he greeted, hugged and cried with them. His mother was positioned between the caskets with her other two daughters standing beside her. Because Kegan was so strong, his mom was able to stand between her husband and daughter. His dad would have been so proud of him.

                                             Photo property of Wager family. Used with permission. 

Ari was a light in the world. Her love for Jesus and others radiated from her heart. The world is truly short of some peacemakers without Ari and Randy. Jennifer, Kegan, Bri and Kara are going to need help in the coming days.  Please keep this family in your prayers.

Jennifer herself posted this two days after the accident.

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.
Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.

Psalms 27:13-14

Take 2

Colossians 1:10-12

Then you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

I still feel weird. I have been more upset than I feel I have any right to feel. I cannot imagine how his family, teammates, and close friends felt. I just listened to the playback of the Cole Cubelic show. A guy just called in and said, 'It's great to hear all these good stories in a time when you hear so many things about athletes.  I think that is the thing about Philip. There isn't really a negative thing to say about him. Oh, how we loved Philip.

The first thing I remember about him was the 2009 Mississippi State game. I wasn't supposed to go but my dad got sick and I went with my mom at the last minute. Tommy Trott wasn't playing that game and Philip made what would become his signature touchdown in the corner of the end zone. I am not sure why he stood out so much.

Later, I believe it was 2010 fan day- we went to Auburn. I did not get to "meet" him that day but we were near him in another line. He pointed to his sign which read 'Phillip Lutzenkirchen' and he cried out, (in fun Philip fashion) " They spelled Luztenkirchen right but got Philip wrong!" I think that was the moment that cemented it for me because I have an unusual last name myself. Of course, it isn't as long as Lutzenkirchen but it is still a name people stammer over.

Of course, there were many moments in 2010 that were incredible  that included Philip. My sister and brother-in-law and I were at the UGA game in 2010. I remember there was so much controversy in the build up to that game. As we were at Tiger Walk waiting for the buses, I had checked twitter. Philip had sent out the funniest tweet defending Cam. It was later deleted, but it was along the lines of  'I wouldn't want to be playing across from an angry Cammy Cam today!'  If I remember correctly, Philip had a pretty awesome game. Most of us remember how Philip wrote Evan's name on his game shoes after the little boy passed away. There are so many moments to cherish and remember. I love how he embraced the Auburn family. For those that got the chance to meet him, even briefly, he gave his undivided attention. It never seemed a bother to him.

There are so many things that we could all go on and on. Everyone who encountered him was a better person. He was an ardent defender of his friends. He stood up for what he believed was right all the time.

I am not an easy cry-er. However, last Monday, when I took the twins to the library special activity, the Mobile Excelsior Band played. They played, 'I'll Fly Away' and I had to leave the room.  I am comforted knowing Philip is in Heaven, rejoicing in glory. No doubt in my mind that Philip was greeted with a well done, my true and faithful servant. We are all sad because we feel he was destined for great things. Philip did his great things in such a short period of time. I still feel it is unfair. However, God had a different plan for Philip.  Philip touched many lives. He walked the walk. Oh yes, he talked about his love for God but his words weren't needed. Philip's actions showed it.

Here is a link to the Excelsior Band, if you are interested  http://excelsior1883.com/

I cannot say anything better than those who have already said it. Jay Jacobs, Coach Malzahn, Gene Chizik have all said amazing, true things about him. I am crushed and heartbroken  for his parents, sisters, teammates and friends. Philip had a reach that was truly amazing. Please join me in continuing to pray for his mom and dad, sisters, and friends.  They will need some prayer support for quite some time.

This is something I wrote about Philip after the 2012 season. I always write a thank you to the seniors.  I can only hope he saw it.

Philip Lutzenkirchen:  I've got an unusual last name, so I always felt sort of connected to you. You've been a shining light at Auburn, both on and off the field. you have demonstrated leadership beyond measure. I was sick when I heard you were out for the rest of the season! I hope you heal quickly and are able to move on to the things you want to do. There are so many favorite plays of yours, but what I appreciate most from you is the class and leadership and Christian walk you demonstrated at Auburn. (OK, maybe I remember the touchdown at Alabama and the little dance!)  I hope that WONDERFUL things happen for you. I can't wait to hear about you in the future.

Well Done

An amazing person was taken from us early Sunday morning. I have starting trying to write a tribute several times, but keep erasing and starting over. One thing I keep thinking is that Philip never really belonged here. He was a child of our King who had the faith that God asks- the faith of a child.

There are a million good things to say about him.  I first knew that he would be a funny fella when I heard him refer to himself as 'Old Phil Phil'. He turned into one of my favorite Auburn football players of all time. I loved that he let us feel like we knew him well. We were blessed to have him play in the orange and blue. We were blessed to have him here on earth with us, even if it was for just a little while. I know that in that split second when he left this world, he was greeted at the gates of Heaven with a "Well, done, my faithful servant. Well done."

These are some of my favorite things about him-

After the 2010 National Championship game, he did a Q & A on twitter. I asked him if his name fit on his Pee Wee jersey. (Having a peculiar last name myself, I can relate) His answer:  I didn't have a Pee Wee jersey. Mine had to be special ordered.

He quoted the Sandlot AND Mean Girls. (You go, Glen CoCo)

The Woody costume.

His hands were magnets for the football in the endzone.

He stood up for what he thought was right at all times.

Every time a fan asked for a picture, he took it, he smiled and made them feel welcome.

He wrote Evan's name on his shoes.

He let his faith show to everyone. Maybe he didn't say it all the time, (although he did often)but his life and his actions did.

The best thing I know to do for him is to pay it forward. If everyone did something for someone else in his honor, I think he would love it. We don't have to make a list of  the things that we've done- but in our heart, we would know that we had done something to honor him. There are so many ideas- pay for the person behind you in a drive thru, pick up some trash, etc.  I hope you all will join me. Make every day count. 

  

Hearts of Champions!

Last weekend, the little Tee-Ball team I help coach participated in a charity tournament to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project in town. We didn't quite have our whole team, and since it was a rec league tournament, we were allowed to 'pick up' two players. There are two girls who we played all-stars with last yr who played with us. They are amazing ball players and sweet girls.

Since we were the only visiting team, we were given a bye for the Friday night game. On Saturday morning, we won our first game. If you know anything with double elim tourneys, this can put you waiting for a LONG time. Our next game was a couple of hours away (maybe more, time got kind of mixed up)
As double elim tourneys go, we didn't play our next game for SEVERAL hours.We lost the next game (in several extra innings) which sent us to losers bracket.  We were able to keep the kids hydrated and had them eat lunch. We played about 6:30 or so, but the game before ours was in MANY extra innings so the kids didn't really get to eat dinner because we didn't know how much longer it would be.

At any rate, we played and won pretty quickly.We immediately had to play the same team we had lost to earlier. Right away it started off titchy when our girls ran on a pop fly which resulted in the other team getting a triple play. The umpire couldn't make up his mind on whether the 3rd out was out. Now we knew she was out...but the ump put her on, took her off, put her on, took her off. (Naturally the little catcher was the next batter. I put on and took off her chest protector THREE times!) This made the game extremely tense. It was getting REALLY late. We were in extra innings. I think it was 9:30. Now keep in mind, we knew that if we won, we'd have to play again. Our girls- ages 4-7- gave the day EVERYTHING they had. No tears, no dinner, (til about 10:00) but they played tough as nails! It was very much a 'Facing the Giants' kind of moment when we had to play another inning! We finally lost when our sweet little GiGi (not her real name) fell down on her way to first base.

Did our girls care that they had the 2nd place trophy and medal? Heck no. We had a ton of fun, the girls learned a lot, and it was raising money for a good cause. I would not have been any prouder if they had brought home first place. Love these girlies. Looking forward to All-Stars!

More than an Injury

When I was in the 7th or 8th grade, my friend was in a terrible accident. She was riding on the back of a three wheeler and another guy was driving it. I was standing on the side of the road when they whizzed by and turned the corner. As they turned the corner the whole three wheeler flipped over and they both flew off. Now this was more than 25 years ago but I can still see it clearly in my head. My friend flew right into a fire hydrant and the other guy flew in a different direction. I was looking right at my friend's leg when I saw the bone pop out of the leg. I didn't know the term 'compound fracture' at the time. I stood there for what seemed like forever with my mouth wide open. A guy driving by stopped to help. He yelled for me to go call 911 (which was new!) but I continued to stare. Finally I ran back home to the phone- and called. Took me two times to get anyone on the phone...all I could tell them was that the bone was out of the leg. I completely forgot about the other kid on the ATV. As it turned out, he was actually more injured than she was because he had a a head injury. (He was ok though) I remember when the ambulance got there, they put a contraption on her leg that was this type of stabilizer that blew up with a machine. It also had warm fluids in it. The EMTs knew I was scared so they let me watch everything.  She had surgery, spent some time in traction, and was discharged from the hospital several days later. I remember her cast had this little window cutout from the cast so the wound could be treated. I think I remember that little cutout from the cast more than anything. It took a while, but my friend soon got back to normal.

Last night when I watched the Louisville/Duke game, I SAW the play and saw Kevin Ware's leg twist, but I never saw the bone out. I saw severe reactions from players from both teams. I've seen several terrible sports injuries in my life. I saw one which is never mention- a Samford player in a game against Southern Miss. It didn't even seem like that big of a deal. He was paralyzed though, and he died later. Southern Miss player Derrick Nix was injured it what seemed like a run of the mill injury. It turned out he had an underlying kidney issue and he was never ever the same. Deandre Brown broke his leg in a bowl game (you can youtube that one) and it was REALLY gross. You could see his leg snap while he was running, and then he holds it up in the air and it flops it a section that should not flop. A player from the other team is trying to help him, but he kept holding his leg up. It was almost like he was afraid to let it touch the ground. He turned out ok though, and he played the next year. The scariest of all in my lifetime of course, was Zac Etheridge. It didn't look like a big deal at first, as we all know. Then he just didn't get up. I think the scene where his friend tugs at his jersey and Zac is just flopped over the other player.  Never dreamed he would return to the field; never underestimate God's hand.

All that being said, first of all I think CBS did the right thing. They didn't reshow the injury over and over again. I know the Louisville players were upset, but what got me was the visible reaction of the Duke players as well. Even stoic Coach K was upset. I saw a picture today that showed Ware up on crutches today. That just showed how far medicine has come. I know it was difficult for the players to try to play basketball again after that. Their minds were with their teammate. I love seeing the team bonding and the all for one TEAM. Our girls softball team at the high school has a team member who was burned badly in an accident right before the season started. Her teammates made up the phrase 'Strive for Five' to win it all for their teammate. (Five obviously being her jersey number) They are doing REALLY well, too! Five is back at school part of the day but she isn't able to sit out at any ball games yet.

I said all that to say, one reason I love team sports is that you are doing in for more than just yourself. There is the TEAM!! Playing team sports was one of the best things my parents ever did for me.  Being a part of something that is bigger than yourself is just something that can't be explained. While I've never been a fan of Louisville hoops- I hope the win it all. Go get it Cards. Do it for your team.

A Final 'Roll'

Auburn University has announced that the annual A-Day game will take place April 20th. On that day, there will be a final celebration of Toomers Corner. Soon after that, the trees will be removed. That truly breaks my heart. Even though the officials told us the trees weren't likely to make it, I kept holding out hope that a miracle would happen. Auburn posted a website and asked folks to share memories, but I can't do that in a few words on someone else's page, so I thought I'd do it here. There are more memories than I can write down.

Toomer's Corner has always been iconic for all of us. It represents us as much as Samford Tower or Jordan-Hare Stadium. When I was a kid, we would meet my grandparents and my aunt and uncle at the games. We would walk over to Anders, always stopping to look at the trees. Later after my grandparents died and my uncle wasn't really able to go to games anymore, I starting going to games with friends. I shared the traditions with them as well. Later, my family started to go to games together again. This time, passing the love and traditions down to my wonderful little nieces.

So for me, the memories of Toomers is my childhood. It holds memories of family. The memories are of my friends, who I still consider my family. Soon after the trees were poisoned, we took the girls to see them.

I fully believe that Auburn will replace the trees and will come to love the new icon as well. It does bother me that this is something I feel was stolen from us, but as an 'AU Family', we will move forward. We will still hold onto the glorious memories of winning, making new friends, passing traditions down to family, and showing old friends the beautiful traditions of Auburn. However, we will hold together and move forward to something new because that is who we are- a family.  My memories-they can't be taken away!

Sweet Auburn, loveliest village of the plain,
Where health and plenty cheered the labouring swain,
Where smiling spring its earliest visit paid,
And parting summer's lingering blooms delayed,
Dear lovely bowers of innocence and ease,
Seats of my youth, when every sport could please,
How often have I loitered o'er the green,
Where humble happiness endeared each scene.
-Oliver Goldsmith

Long Promised Post

So, I promised to tell this story to a friend of mine. She is a tried and true Ole Miss Rebel fan and made the trip to the Compass Bowl this year. The beginning of her trip was a comedy of errors much like my Kentucky story. However, she got a nicer ending for that game!

2008 was not a great year for Auburn football. When the 2009 season started, it was full of hope and promise. My whole family goes together to one game at least each year. When I say whole family, I mean my parents, my sister and brother-in-law, and their twin girls. In 2009, we went to the Kentucky game. Auburn was 5-0 at that point, so we were all very excited. All of my life my parents have taken us to at least one Auburn game a year.We usually sat in the endzone. If it cleared out at the end, we would join my grandparents in the 'good seats.' We also used to park almost RIGHT by the stadium and tailgate with the family there and some of my grandfather's cemetery friends (long story).  After my grandfather died and my grandmother was unable to go to the games, we inherited their season tickets (TUF)

It was a 6:00 kickoff, so we decided to drive up that morning. We weren't sure if we would stay overnight or not. My sister was so excited. It was Emma and Ella's first trip to Auburn. We stopped in Evergreen to eat breakfast, as we almost always do. As soon as we got out of the car in Auburn, Ella got sick. We first thought she might have gotten carsick. Then we thought it was something she ate.

The day was about 25 degrees colder than the weather guys had anticipated. It also rained on and off and there had been NO mention of rain. We planned to eat some sandwiches and stuff my mom made before we went into the stadium-my mom had them in a tote bag. We got separated from each other and if you have ever tried to use your cell phone in Auburn on game day, you probably know its mostly useless anywhere near the stadium. Eventually we did find each other, but it was getting close to kickoff. We rushed through the ticket gate. My mom had her tote bag which had ham sandwiches and other stuff in it. We also had blankets and jackets. We don't normally carry so much stuff, but the twins were only two at the time. Since we were carrying so much toddler paraphernalia, the security folks didn't even check my mom's tote bags. So in we go. We got to our seats and my mom pulls out the ham sandwiches. You have to know that we sit in the 'old' section. It is the gold zone. We aren't in any way rich, but my grandfather made a friend years ago who is an old Auburn pharmacist. So these seats are some of the best in the stadium.  Here were are eating ham sandwiches in the middle of folks that donate tons of money to the university eating ham sandwiches.

Meanwhile, the weather is getting colder and colder. Auburn started off well, but they started to stumble a little later in the game.
Ella was getting sicker and sicker. Melinda (my sis) decided to take her to the first-aid station. The paramedics gave her a little medicine, and Melinda and Terry left to try to find a hotel room. We knew we could not get Ella home that night. (This first year we all went, we went in two vehicles) So, my parents, Emma, and I stay for the rest of the game. The game proceeds to go downhill. Auburn lost in the last minute of the game. We stood up to leave. As we walked toward the concourse, Emma threw up ALL over my dad. I will say, the people who run the concessions and security at the stadium rushed to help us. They brought rolls of paper towels, gatorades, and other things. We cleaned up my dad the best we could. At this time, we didn't know that first aid had given Ella real medicine or we would have taken Emma there as well. We also didn't know that first-aid gave them a ride to their car. It took us nearly an hour to get to the car because Emma kept having to stop to be sick. My mom was trying to help with her. Meanwhile, I am carrying the PILES of blankets and tote bags my mom had brought with us, including one Melinda had carried. To be fair, my mom thought we'd have time to get back to the car earlier. It was SOOOOOOO cold by this time. Did I mention it rained? Auburn lost. We FINALLY got to the hotel with Melinda and Terry where Ella was sleeping peacefully and discovered that the light in the bathroom didn't work among other things wrong with the room. We were all too tired and cold to care.

That was terrible as it was happening, but when we look back on it, it is definitely a family memory. Ella doesn't REALLY remember it, but she thinks to say. When she was 4, she would say, 'Remember when I throwed up at the War Eagle game? I throwed up EBREYWHERE!'

So, there- that is my 2009 AU/Kentucky family story. Thankfully, the very next year, we went to the AU/Arkansas game and saw the game of a lifetime!

A Few Things

First of all, I want to congratulate Ashton Richardson. He was a senior Auburn football player this past year. He was also a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship. He most recently won the Bobby Bowden award, which the Fellowship of Christian Athletes awards to the football player who best epitomizes the 'student athlete'. Ashton's major is Animal Science. His GPA is 3.9. Now, if you aren't familiar, Auburn has one of the best large animal vet programs in the country. I can only imagine how difficult those classes are. He managed these grades while being a starter on the football team. He was a walk-on player originally who was given a scholarship. He worked his way to a football scholarship. He wants to be a horse surgeon. He balanced being a great student, a hard worker, a team leader, and a starter without getting in trouble or causing any problem. In fact, he was winning awards that honored his work ethic and grades. What a guy! Congratulations, Ashton. I wish you the best of luck in life and all of your endeavors. If I ever own a horse, I would be sure to take that horse to Ashton if the horse needed surgery.

This part is much harder for me to write. My parents have a neighbor who have a grandson with leukemia. I went to school with his uncle. His dad is quite a bit older than me, so I don't really remember. In 2011, Harrison was diagnosed with leukemia. I have followed the story with others in my community. Harrison and his family live in North Carolina, but there are many of us that know his uncle, grandparents, and some know his dad. Harrison is actually doing quite well, but he is currently on an adventure from the Make-A-Wish foundation. His whole family was flown to Miami for the national championship game.Today, Harrison's dad posted pictures. They met some of the Notre Dame players today, Coach Saban, Kirk Herbstreit, and more I am sure. They got to see the College Gameday set. It looks like an amazing experience. No one deserves it  more than this family. They have stared this cancer in the face and fought with everything they have. Harrison has been strong and brave. He is worthy of hero status. This family has kept God at the front of everything. I know that this has been a topic of discussion recently about whether God cares about outcomes of football games. I don't think He cares about the game, but I know He cares about His children. I have been raised to root against Alabama really. However tomorrow night, I want whoever Harrison is cheering for to win. Believe me, this is hard for me to say. (Special thanks here to Chad Gibbs and his book 'God and Football- I don't think I could have done this without some of the words and points in his book) Since there are picture of his family adorned in the crimson and white with that familiar curly A; I guess I know who I want to win. So for this one night and one night only, Roll Tide, Harrison.

If you want to read more about his family, his dad maintains a blog at http://www.stevemckinion.com
You can find them on Facebook at Pray for Harrison

Thank You Seniors '12

I have developed a personal tradition of writing a post of personal thanks for each senior Auburn football player. This year was a tough one, but the seniors fought through. These players have seen the highs and lows of life and college football. I love that they allow us feel like we are a part of things or 'know' them through social media or other outlets.  As always, we as fans, have favorite players, so there may be players I know about more than others. That doesn't mean that I am not grateful for each and every player on the roster. The players are listed in order of their jersey numbers.

At any rate, here we go:

DeAngelo Benton:  I know things happened in your life this year that weren't the way you would have chosen. I am so thankful you stuck with the team. I appreciate your dedication to the team and to Auburn. I thank you for your time at Auburn. I hope good things happen for you in your life.

Anthony Morgan:  I always enjoy reading your twitter posts. I know you probably didn't play as much as you wanted to, but I enjoyed watching you play when you did.  A team doesn't work without all of the parts so your dedication mattered. I thank you for your time of service to Auburn.

Ikeem Means: I think you will have a successful life.  You did make a difference at Auburn. I wish you nothing but success. Thank you for your time of service to Auburn.  I know that there will be  many good times to look back on and remember. We thank you.

T'Sharvan Bell:  You really worked to step up as a leader this year. I know that it may not have seemed like it mattered much, but down the line, the legacy you left will make a difference.  I won't ever forget seeing you take the Bama quarterback to the ground to basically seal the game. You played your heart out every time you set foot on the field. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn.

Onterio McCalebb: I often use you as an example to my students for overcoming obstacles. I remember watching you the first time I saw you in person at the Auburn/MS State game in 09. Anytime you got a chance to dazzle the crowd, you did it. You did it with class. You always credited your teammates. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn. I look forward to hearing about great things from you .

Daren Bates: I bet it doesn't feel like you are nearly finished. Your still-arm play this year was amazing!!! There were many times I saw you make some terrific plays. I appreciate your quiet leadership that you lent to Auburn for the last few years. Your playing was outstanding as well. I hope that good things happen in your life.  Thank you so much for everything you did for Auburn.

Jonathan Evans: I saw you play a few times in high school. I so enjoyed seeing you at Auburn. I hope you are able to move on to great things. Your time at Auburn did make a difference. You paved the path for others. I appreciate you and look forward to seeing great things from you.  I hope all of your dreams come true. Maybe one day another player from Blount will say you inspired him.

Philip Lutzenkirchen:  I've got an unusual last name, so I always felt sort of connected to you. You've been a shining light at Auburn, both on and off the field. you have demonstrated leadership beyond measure. I was sick when I heard you were out for the rest of the season! I hope you heal quickly and are able to move on to the things you want to do. There are so many favorite plays of yours, but what I appreciate most from you is the class and leadership and Christian walk you demonstrated at Auburn. (OK, maybe I remember the touchdown at Alabama and the little dance!)  I hope that WONDERFUL things happen for you. I can't wait to hear about you in the future.

Ashton Richardson: Your story is another one I love- a walk on later earning a scholarship! You demonstrated a never quit attitude that was clear. Your leadership was something that helped the team many ways. I am super impressed that you interviewed for the Rhodes Scholarship. I hope all of your dreams come true. I can't WAIT to hear about the things that you do. I know they will be great!!

John Sullen: Your little smile is too cute!! You have been a steady person on the team. I appreciate the plays and the leadership that you demonstrated in the team. I hope that terrific things happen for you. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn. I appreciate it. Let us hear from you.

Jamar Travis:  I've said this before, but I don't think that a team works without all of the parts. I appreciate your effort and your love for Auburn. Your time did make a difference. Thank you for your service to Auburn. We will never forget your graduating class.

Emory Blake: Wow! What a career! You have been impressive both on and off the field. I HATE to lose you!  I remember one of your first touchdowns when you pumped your arm in excitement! I loved it! I love how you have tried to be a good teammate. You've been supportive of the team, both players and coaches. I think any NFL team would be CRAZY not to take you! I appreciate your time and effort and love for Auburn.  Thank you so much for everything you've done for Auburn.

Travante Stallworth: I always thought your twitter name was so funny. I appreciate everything you have done for Auburn. Your time and effort has been appreciated. Thank you so much for your time, leadership and love for Auburn. It seems like yesterday that your class started at Auburn. Thank you so much.

To all of the players- please come back to Auburn often. We love and support all of you. We will always be a part of a family through the good times and bad times. I love Auburn and I know all of you do, too. Stay in touch and visit often! War Eagle over and over again!

So, I haven't blogged in a while. First, why can't Internet people just leave things alone!!! They have to change constantly so we have to re-figure it out. Grrr.

Wanted to say thanks for people who prayed for my kiddos. Most of the seniors passed. 2 didn't. One of those, we will be able to make some accommodations in order for him to walk at graduation. It's complicated and I can't go into it too much. However, he is planning to test again so he can complete his regular diploma.

The other won't be able to walk at graduation. He only came to us part way through this year. He took the test again today, so hopefully he will have passed when the scores come in the summer. He is also planning to test until he passes. I think if he had come to us sooner, we might have been able to help him more. I honestly thought he would pass.

It's tough to tell them. However, I was very happy to tell those that did pass. Thanks for the prayers!

Prayers Needed

OK, my friends.

I have 6 students that need prayer. Next Monday and Tuesday they take a test that will affect graduation. I have one more week to work with them. Please pray that we have an effective and productive week. Please be be praying for them to be free from distraction and focused. Also, pray for them to be free from fear. There are the students initials...JG, CS, JJ, DM, JW, MD. Another student, TD has to take one in Biology, but I don't teacher her anymore. All 7 have a test to pass. There are 5 they must pass to graduate. All of these kiddos have passed all but one. They will have one more chance, but if they don't pass next week, they won't have the scores back in time for the graduation ceremony. If on the 2nd try they pass, they will get diplomas over the summer, but please pray that we knock this out next week and get these kids ready for the world. If you know me at all, you know how much I care and love my kiddos. Thanks so much for your prayers.
Love to you all,
Christy

The Best of College Sports

This afternoon, I witnessed (not in person, unfortunately) one of the greatest things I have seen in college sports in a long time. Today was the last game of the regular season for Auburn. It was also a home game, so that meant it was Senior Night. This is a team that has not been successful with the 'W', but they have never quit fighting. There were so many games they were RIGHT on the edge.

This afternoon, however, the won.  Here is where the great moment came in. It was nearly the end of the game. It was somewhat locked up that Auburn would win. The student section started chanting, 'We want Jake!! We want Jake!'  They were referring to Jake Drum, a walk- on (non sports-scholarship) Senior. He hasn't played any this season. I am not sure if he has played any other time before. When I could hear the uproar of the crowd, I knew he was going in, even though I couldn't see him yet.

So, in goes Jake. Lo and behold, he grabs a 'steal' and they moved it down the court. The ball is passed to Jake, and he goes up for a shot and is fouled. Then, he gets to go to the free throw line. I was sitting on my coffee table with tears in my eyes, pleading that he make his shots. He does!!! The student section (known as The Jungle) goes wild! It was really a special moment to watch, even on television. I love the underdog, and this kid scoring definitely fits as underdog in my eyes. I love sports anyway, especially college sports, and this is one of the reasons why I love it so much.

Then, he becomes a trending topic on twitter. So, if you saw, 'Jake Drum' (drumsanity) trending on twitter, now you know why.

Here goes my thanks list to the Auburn basketball Seniors:
Kenny Gabriel- You fought for what you wanted. Your path wasn't easy. You showed us high-flying acts of slam-dunking greatness, even when other things weren't great on the court. Thanks for your hard work and love for Auburn. I admire your dedication to the team and the university. Congrats on a win for the end of the season. Best wishes for a successful career.

Adrian Forbes- I don't know any backstory on you. However, I knw it was probably not the easiest path for you. You also showed great moments of basketball. You remained dedicated to your team. Thank you for being an Auburn man for this team. Congrats on the win today and best of luck in the future.

Tony Neysmith- I think you have a pretty cool name. There were probably times that you wanted to give in, but you did not. Hard work and dedication mean more than other things sometimes, even a W. Thank you for your dedication and hard work.

Jake Drum- It takes a lot to be a walk on for a college team. There is a lot of practice time. You didn't get the glory, and you didn't get your school paid for as others have. You didn't quit though. I am so glad you got a shining moment today. You deserve it. Thanks for being an Auburn man. I wish I could have seen it in person today.

A Dedicated Life

I have posted some things recently, but I was not trying to be cryptic. I typed out the entire story earlier, but it deleted accidentally. I am not retyping the whole thing. Basically, I was giving the chain of events that happened in Mobile on Friday night. A young man was being taken into custody when he stabbed a police officer in the neck and killed him. The suspect was later killed in a standoff, but you can go to http://www.wkrg.com/ or  http://www.local15tv.com/ to get the whole story. It was a scary evening. Officer Green was laid to rest today. He leaves behind a wife, three children, his brothers and sisters on the force, friends, and a church family. We don't often have officers killed in the line of duty here, so it has been hard on the community. It was a very disturbing chain of events. May God bless and comfort his family.

Random

"You fight when it don't look good. You fight when everybody counts you out. You fight when there's NO WAY anybody besides you thinks you can do it. You just keep fighting, and at some point, you are going to win."
CGC

Don't quit. Keep trying. Never give in. Sorry this is so short. I've had a terrible case of strep throat and am just getting back into the swing of things.

Healing

So, I had a date slip past me this year without even thinking about it. I thought about it a couple of weeks BEFORE the date of the event, but I didn't even think of it on the day or after, until last week.

If you have read my blog a while or know me, you know the school I teach at was nearly defined by a single event about three years ago. A student, a 4 star football recruit, was killed in an 'incident.' I don't know for sure what happened and I am not sure anyone else does, either. It nearly ruined us. It devastated the school and divided the community. We had CNN calling the school. We were on local news, cable news, and media websites.

At any rate, the day of his death passed without incident this year. That was the first time that has happened.  It doesn't mean we don't miss him. It doesn't mean we don't think about him. This group of 12th graders were freshmen when it happened, so hopefully we can all continue to heal. I know I was forever changed by the events of that day. December 10, 2008. I think about the last time I talked with him, even though I didn't know him well. We talked about orchids. Yes, orchids - the flower. He was doing a research paper on them. I know the kids still think about him. Periodically, a kid will show me a picture of him on their phone and ask if I wonder what he'd be doing these days.

This is what I do think about though. The next time I or anyone else insult a football player who we do NOT know personally, think about this idea. None of us is guaranteed tomorrow. We don't EVER know when there might be an ordinary accident or a bizarre, unexplained accident. We don't know about health. I am glad I have peace in my heart that the last thoughts I had on Friday afternoon were about BJ and his strange research paper on orchids. I am glad I didn't have a conversation on the way home that day that, 'wow, this kid is _________'. It is SO easy to throw thoughts out on social media that insult and assault the character of a person that we don't know at all. My wish for the memory of BJ is that we would all take 2 seconds before words flow out of out mouths that insult a group of fans, a player (you know, because what the media says about someone is ALWAYS true), or anyone else for that matter-and consider that there might not be a tomorrow or another hour.

Healing, however slowly, is finally coming to our sweet community. We've been waiting for you.

And BJ, I sure do wish you'd gotten the opportunity to be a part of the 2010 AU football team. Every time I think of you, I think of 'team day' with your entire Auburn PJ outfit.

Thanks, Seniors

I did this last year and decided I would do it again this year. I think the seniors are all worth being thanked individually, so I do my best to try to say a bit to each of them, even if they never read it. As a whole, all of you deserve to be thanked for standing tall when things were rough. I hope that you come back and visit often and keep in touch with the Auburn family. I know lots of people say that we only won the national championship because of Cam, but we won because of each one of you. Every one of you played a part in it in one way or the other.

In no particular order...

Chandler Brooks- Wow, you came up big when we needed you. That play will be in the highlight films for quite some time. Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn.

Sam Brown-  I will admit, I don't know very much about you. However, you were a part of the team. Thank you so much for your time and dedication to Auburn.

Quindarius Carr- You had some fabulous punt returns. It was fun to watch you run. Thank you for your time and dedication to the Auburn team and family.

Drew Cole- I always watched you as much as I could. I work not far from Picayune, so I really wanted to see you do well. Thanks so much for sticking it out and staying with it. The Auburn family is grateful!

Jared Cooper-  I think this year you provided some much needed leadership this year. Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn.

Eltoro Freeman- You are a real Auburn man. You set a goal and you reached it. I know it wasn't easy for you and you didn't reach all of your goals. You earned my respect. Even when people sort of gave you a hard time, you kept putting one foot in front of the other and never game up. I hope you stay in touch with Auburn and visit often. Thank you so much for your dedication and love for Auburn.

A.J Greene- You battled injury and injury, but you never let it stop you. You have been an excellent leader and player. Thank you for your time and love for Auburn.

Josh Harris- I know long snappers don't get the credit they deserve, but you really deserve credit. Snap after snap, you were error-free, even when others got the glory. I ragged you a bit on twitter since you made fun of a band t-shirt, but I was really kidding. (sorta) Thank you for being such an awesome player and person. You were a leader when we needed it. I hope you do well in the senior bowl.  Thank you so much for everything you did for Auburn.

Davis Hooper- I think you were a quiet leader. I mostly say this based off of what others say about you, but quiet leadership can take you far in life. You did make a difference. Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn. We are all grateful for your time. I hope you stay in touch and visit with the team in the future.

Chris Humphries- A fullback doesn't always get all the credit he deserves, either. Thank you for your time and service to Auburn. This family loves you and thanks you.

Bobby Ingalls- Thanks so much for your time and dedication to Auburn. You made a difference, even when you thought no one noticed.

Brandon Mosley- Wow, you helped out this year! You provided leadership to a very young group. I thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn. You will always be a part of the Auburn family. I hope you stay in touch with the team and visit often.

Nathan Taylor- Thank you for your time and dedication to Auburn. You made a difference even if you didn't think you did. Thank you for everything you did for the team.

Neiko Thorpe-  You had such a great career at Auburn. Not only did you make some big plays, but you made a difference to the younger guys, Thank you for your time at Auburn. I wish you much luck and hope you are able to visit us in the future.

Jay Wisner- You had some big catches this year! Thanks for your dedication to the team and to Auburn. I hope you are very successful and all of your future dreams come true.

Finally, I want to thank Coach Roof and Coach Malzahn.

Coach Roof- Thank you for time time and dedication at Auburn. You are truly an honorable man. Thank you to your family as well. I wish you luck at the next step in your life.

Coach M- Wow, what a ride. Thank you for being such a positive influence for all of us. We will miss you greatly. We wish you could stay, be we also understand the need to move on to another level. Best wishes and thanks for sharing your family with us.  Come and visit as much as you can.

War Eagle to all of you.

Daily Blessings

I saw a lot of people doing a daily post on things they were thankful for this month. I had thought about doing it, but decided not to do it. However, in the last few days, I have had a couple of answered prayer requests. I am thankful for many things. I am thankful for a God who cares and knows the things that we need. I am thankful for two very specific needs that were fulfilled very recently.  I am also thankful for a wonderful family. Things didn't work out the way I thought they might. I always hoped I'd be married and have my own children by now. However, God had other plans for me. I have been blessed with two adorable nieces that I love more than anything. I have wonderful parents who I am close to, and I am close with my sister and her husband. I am thankful that they let me treat the twins like they were my own. I am thankful for the wonderful friends that I have. A few of you are as close as family, and I am thankful for that. I am thankful that I have a job. Everything isn't perfect, but I love going to work with my kids. I am thankful for a nice home. It may have termites at the moment, but I am thankful for a termite bond that will fix the damage. I am thankful for the country that I live in. There may me imperfections, but I love my country. I am also grateful for the men and women who protect the freedoms we enjoy. I am thankful that I have good health. I am also thankful that I have been able to enjoy Auburn football. It may sound petty, but when my whole family can go to the whole game together, it isn't petty at all. It makes me thankful for the traditions my grandparents have passed down through Auburn football and now is passed to the twins. I think I could go on forever, but I will spare everyone. I just wanted to mention some of the things I am thankful for on this Thanksgiving Eve. Now, what about you?

Big Day on the Plains

Well, since http://www.thewareaglereader.com was linking my blog on his site, I thought MAYBE I should add my tidbit on here.

First, a week ago, my family headed up to Auburn for our 'all together game'. We enjoy it every year, and we had a great time this year.

Anyway, the info I sent to The War Eagle Reader was about Tiger Walk. It was just a mistake, but it didn't stop it from being...interesting. Normally, we go to Tiger Walk early and try to stand along the the rails so we are near the players. This year, we were super busy and didn't get over there until late, so we decided to stand up on the hill. The crowd was huge, as always, when a Mississippi State Trooper arrives and decides to try to drive through the crowd. I would have thought when he saw the very large crowd, he would stop, check game day info and turn around, but nope, he pressed on. Eventually, he got to the guard rails and some friendly fans helped him back up and get out of there.

Now, I can't imagine driving though that crowd. I can't speak for anyone else. At any rate, there you go. I sure am glad Auburn is off today. I can enjoy the hoopla of today's SEC matchup with no worries!

Fun Weekend

So, I've been to plenty of Auburn games. This weekend, I went to the AU/Florida game with my sister and brother-in-law. We had a great time. We got there early. We were able to go see the National Championship Trophy.

We also got to go over to Toomer's Corner and look around a bit before it was covered in TP.

Now, it breaks my heart to see the little guardrails around the trees. However, the Auburn Spirit isn't broken and we carry on.

The rest of the pre-game morning was uneventful. We did the usuals like the bookstore, Tiger Walk, and Anders.

Then, the game. This story isn't really about the football game. I enjoyed it very much, and it was certainly worth its own story and post. I am proud of the guys, especially the DEFENSE, Codey and Steven, and of Clint. However, I digress. Our family's seats are in a location where there aren't really a group of people who act like morons during the game. If you sit there, you behave. Most of the people have sat around each other for years. So, this guy is sitting behind me who isn't normally there. He was DRUNK. I dont mean tipsy, sloppy, or woozy. I mean slurring, falling down drunk. The first thing that happened was that he spilled his drink on my head...it was all in my hair and ALL down my back. He apologized repeatedly, but I just kinda said, 'yeah, ok, dont worry.' Then, it happened AGAIN. This time, he tried to give me money!!!! I was very close to going to let a event security person know.  Then, he elbowed me in the head. He leaned forward and slurred, 'Can I get a hug.' Ahem. I don't hug much anyway. Much less a drunk person that I don't know. I said, 'not right now.'  I was going to swap seats with my brother in law, but  it was very close to halftime. Thankfully, the ladies sitting next to this bozo suggested that he put his drink down for a while.  Then, when it was halftime, the ladies told him to go get a coke and some food and sit down outside and eat and try to sober up a little.

He came back after halftime. He TOTALLY REEKED. Of course, I did too by this time. He was much 'less drunk' by this time. If you kept up with the game at all, you know what happened in the 2ns half. He never seemed to realize they changed quarterbacks. He cheered for Kiehl when he was in, but when Clint would come in, he kept saying, 'Come on, Trotter!!' The ladies told him twice what was going on, then they quit trying.

I think toward the end of the game, he had sobered up quite a bit. When it became obvious we were going to win, he leaned up and said, 'War Eagle.' I replied with 'War Eagle' and patted him on the hand.  I don't think he will be getting a ticket in that area again soon. The ladies know the owner of that ticket, and we watch out for each other in that section. Plus, he was going back home to Washington. I don't wish anything bad on him at all, but he better hope he isn't in that seat for the Ole Miss game. If he is that drunk then, my dad will have someone come remove him, which I would totally agree with since the twins will be going.

So, there is my fun Florida game story. I am just glad we parked at facilities so I could clean up before we drove back to Mobile. I just know when I went to the restroom and stuff, people thought I was roasted because I smelled of alcohol so much! Oh well, if thats what I had to do for us to win, I was fine with stinking for a few hours! :)