Just the Facts #3

 "I think happiness is what makes you pretty. Period. Happy people are beautiful. They become like a mirror and they reflect that happiness." (Drew Barrymore)

 

Hello, my lovely friends! 

 

 Welcome to another edition of Friday Funday! I'm enjoying the process of developing these weekly themes, and this week, we'll be focusing on sports.

 

1. Track and field day held a special magic for me. I remember the thrill of running, the pride of being chosen for the relay, and the cascade of colorful ribbons. It was a full-day celebration, capped off with a joyful school picnic. Yet, there was one event that always caused a flicker of dread: the long jump. I'd invariably find a way to avoid it.

 

2. My heart belonged to the balance beam in gymnastics, a love that my dad understood. He built me a backyard version, a simple wooden plank that became a portal to my gymnastic dreams. I remember the countless hours spent practicing, the thrill of each cartwheel, and even the occasional splinter, a small price for the joy it brought.  

3. My love for the Chicago Bulls during the Michael Jordan era was all-consuming. I was decked out in their gear, glued to the TV for every game, and thrilled to see them in Denver whenever I could. It was a family affair too; my baby nephew/godson, Cuinn, sported Bulls sweatsuits, and my mom even surprised me with a Bulls-themed birthday cake. Those years were truly special.

 

4.  I'm a big fan of both basketball and baseball, though I'm a die-hard Yankees supporter, not a fan of our local team. It's been especially fun over the years, as my brother-in-law, a Boston native, and I have a classic Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. He's lost some of his enthusiasm for baseball lately, though.

 

5.  I love watching the Avalanche, and one of my most cherished memories is from their first championship year. I was working at the mall when Joe Sakic walked in! The buzz that rippled through the store was electric; everyone recognized him instantly. I remember my heart pounding as he approached, a legend in front of me. I managed to swiftly and excitedly snag his autograph, and even managed to get ones for Kyle and Cuinn. I recall the way he smiled and interacted with everyone, making each person feel seen. It was a brief moment, but it's etched in my mind as a perfect snapshot of that championship excitement.

 

6.  Wrestling isn't just entertainment for me; it's a connection to my childhood. My dad taking me and my best friend to that first live event, when we were barely teenagers, was a pivotal moment. I remember the raw energy, the boisterous fans, and the pure excitement when our favorites came out. It was a shared experience that bonded us, and it fueled a passion that's taken me to countless shows since.

 

Thank you for stopping by! Wishing you a day/evening/morning filled with sunshine, laughter, and perhaps a little bit of magic. Until next time, ta-ta for now!