Spring Hockey League

After four games, Andrew's Spring Hockey League coach has thrown in the towel. Since he was unable to get the team moved into the correct division with competition more in line with that of our kids, the coach withdrew our team from the league on the grounds that it was "humiliating" and "unsafe" for our kids to be playing in such a high level division with bigger and more experienced kids. So, we were able to get four games in at least, but the remaining four games on the schedule will not be finished. Here are a few low-resolution clips I took of Andrew's (#97) first four games. Not much in the way of highlights, but a few clips nonetheless. Andrew is still participating in regular "skills" practices that he signed up for this spring; and he and a friend will be attending a week long hockey camp this summer at the University of Miami (Ohio).

Abby Performs in Annual Dance Revue

As seems to be the case a lot lately, Dad and Andrew went one way today, and Mom and Abby went another. Coach Dad, Andrew and the Astros had a baseball scrimmage this morning (preparing for our season-opening game this Tuesday evening). Abby had her annual O'Hare Irish Dance School Revue. Mom was busy volunteering to help keep things organized, but she managed to take the following video clips when she could.

MYBA Astros Baseball

A few weeks ago - and in a weak moment - I volunteered to coach Andrew's baseball team this year (MYBA Senior 13-14 league). I have always been a dad who has helped out with other coaches over the years. I also often bit my tongue holding back saying anything, despite participating in some very unorganized baseball practices. But my thought process was always that these people volunteered to be head coach and I didn't - so I had no right to be critical. Well, I guess I put my money where my mouth is this year - even though it has been required more of my limited free time.

So far we have had about 4 practices. Despite some headaches trying to figure out which kids were actually going to play on my team, and going through a few roster moves, I think our team is finally set. We have 10 kids, plus one more that will be added when he returns from South Carolina after his school year ends, and maybe one more TBD. The kids I have been working with so far have been great! Our assistant coaches/dads by committee has been helpful too. I think we have some good potential. It's going to be especially fun this year because at the 13-14 age group, pretty much everything goes - bunting, lead-offs, stealing, etc. - just like real baseball (I will probably even work in some basic coaching signs).

About three more weeks of practice before the regular season begins. More to blog about later.

Abby Turns Sweet 16!

Today, my baby girl turned 16 years old. I guess she's not a baby any more. However, she is still my "Sweets." I've been so busy with work and Andrew's activities, I wasn't able to do a video "tribute" to Abby this year. I feel bad about that, but here are a few links to Abby's past four birthdays (the 2008 link includes a nice slide show).

• April 3, 2011 (in Panama)
  
• April 3, 2010
• April 3, 2009
• April 3, 2008
  

I think she had a fun day, however. She brought four friends to have dinner at Buca di Beppo (Mom, Dad and Andrew sat in a separate booth). Then Mom took the girls shopping at the mall, while Dad took Andrew to his hockey game. When all were back home, the girls had some cupcakes and sang Happy Birthday to Abby.

Poker Fest 24 Results

This past weekend was Poker Fest 24 in Barryton, MI. We had a descent turnout - 9 of our "core" players, including Gentleman Jim, Breakfast of Champions Dan, Red Eye Dave, OJ Andy, Steve Stevage, Buffalo Mike, Rooter Bill, Ice Man Brett and, of course Hollywood Scott. A good time was had by all playing poker, watching basketball and "stories with Dave" by the campfire. Ice Man took home the championship, with Hollywood finishing runner-up. Red Eye, meanwhile wore his "beer wench" apron with pride. I didn't get much video footage, but here are a few clips.

THe O'Hare Party Bus

St. Patrick's Day for the O'Hare Irish Dancers is like Christmas to Santa Clause. So, as you can imagine, they were a busy bunch yesterday. To increase the fun factor, the group rented a party bus to take them to each of their dancing venues. Here are the highlights from their long and busy day (featuring, of course, Abby and her friends), which included stops at Sully's Pub, The Barley House in Cleveland, the Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade, Dan's Dogs, Sully's Pub again, and then a dance-out at Fox Meadows Country Club.

Rhythm of Ireland in 5 minutes

Here is a 5 minute highlight reel of the Rhythm of Ireland performance from last night. Nice job Abby and the O'Hare Irish Dancers! (and to Mom for volunteering with the raffle and video taping). After the show, Abby had two friends spend the night and then they danced-out again today for more "old folks." With St. Patrick's Day coming up next weekend, I am sure they will be dancing some more over the coming week.