Personal Day

I took a much-needed day off from school on Friday. I entrusted my students to one of the capable substitutes, and headed back to my stopping grounds for an extended weekend. The first stop on my personal day was south Philadelphia. I hadn't seen my sister and niece since Easter, and I was itching to spend a good deal of time enjoying their company (Aaron too, but unfortunately he had to win some bread). Thankfully, Lydia was more than thrilled to see me, despite not having been around me for almost two months. We spent the morning playing with her cups, touring the market, reading books, engaging in a few games of peek-a-boo, and relaxing. This allowed Danielle to get some chores done around the house, and, hopefully, enjoy someone else playing the role of Lydia's personal entertainer.

When she went down for a nap, I enjoyed the blessing of being with my sister. I haven't given a full post on her like I have Rachel, but the blessing she has been to me is just as vital. Once upon a time, I considered us to be the least close of the four siblings (at least in my mind). I had the brother-bond with Ryan, and younger-bond with Rachel, but nothing to fall back on with her. Sure, we got along fine and had fun. However, I can't think of any significant moments with just her and I. Her moving changed that dynamic rather quickly. First it was college, and then to Nashville. Her absence helped me see how I took her close proximity for granted. Over the years many phone calls, emails, and occasional visits have been made. As a result, both she and Aaron have branched out beyond sibling status to close friends. Being older, I seek the wisdom they are willing to provide. God uses them to encourage and challenge me to daily step out in faith. In addition, they are simple folk like me who really enjoy fostering relationships which are genuine and, occasionally, messy. (sorry Danielle I have no pictures with us post-pregnancy since you tend to be the one behind all the photos)

After Danielle and Lydia escorted me to the subway, I embarked on my journey to Citizens Bank Park for a little Phils-Sox Friday-night style. Part of the tickets included getting the opportunity of being on the field during batting practice. It was a great experience just being on the field watching the athletes do what they are good at. One of the first things we got to do when we arrived was meet the Phillies skipper, Charlie Manuel. Now, I like to poke fun at the guy for the way he frequently stumbles over his words. Truth be told, he is a surprisingly cordial man who loves to talk anything baseball. The Big Guy and I obliged him by engaging in a fifteen or so minute conversation about the Phillies and his attempts to lead them to another World Series title. He was genuinely interested in our musings, and I thoroughly enjoyed the brief time.
As batting practice commenced, my favorite Phillie, Shane Victorino, stopped by to sign the young fan's shirt. He needed a marker, so I quickly offered the one Rachel stashed in her purse before we came. As a reward, Shane stopped by to talk with us and sign a couple of things. We got four balls signed as well as Rachel's shirt and my jersey. I know I am 23, almost 24, but there is something kiddish in me that stills enjoys seeing my favorite athletes in person. Now, however, I can enjoy them for what they are: talented men using the gifts God gave them regardless of whether or not they recognize it.

All in all, my first personal day of the year was full of blessing and fun. I got to play uncle, brother, fan, and giddy youngster all in one day. Awesome!