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!