Christmas Defiance

Another Christmas has arrived. One more year to defy the peer pressure to watch "A Christmas Story" on TBS.

Moving Update

Its been just over a week since I moved into Corby's apt. Life has been good at the new place with some ups and downs. On Monday, I cooked for the first time. It was typical first dinner (spaghetti and bread) but it was delcious because I made it. Last wednesday, my credit card was used fraudulently and a hold was placed on my account. That was not fun. I still went to my parents a few times during the week for dinner and company which was nice. I made a some mistakes along the way which put me on a roller coaster at times and I am realizing what it is like to be on my own.

Living on my own is a new experience and I am learning to roll with the punches. The days seem to move by slower compared to before. However, I feel that I am become more self dependent with each accomplishment no matter how small or large.

Relief

This week was horrendous. I am glad its over.

Moving Update

More pics as my new room begins to take form.


Closet


Books all alphabetized. (I know thats a bit extreme but I felt like doing it).

Please continue to check back as the adventure continues...

Recipes

If anyone has any good dinner ideas/recipies then send them my way.

Winter Meetings

Baseball Winter meetings begin today in Nashville, Tenn. For baseball fans, this is the most exciting time of the offseason as the General Managers from all 30 clubs meet and discuss players. Many trades and free agent signings occur during this week and it will be interesting what deals get done. The Angels are involved in what could be the biggest deal, a trade to get 3B Miguel Cabrera from the Florida Marlins. Many believe that the Angels have the best shot and predict that they can reach an agreement by the end of the week.

Stay tuned...

Pena Pad Pics

As promised, here are a few pictures of my new room and apt. I was able to move a few items this afternoon. I will be 100% moved in by next week!

Stupid Gifts

Earlier this week, Stupid.com released their list of the stupidest Christmas gifts of 2007. If anyone is willing to give me the Hillary Nutcracker or the Inflatable Moosehead I will be your friend for life.
Gift Ideas

AIDS Experience

Last night, was able to visit the "World Vision Experience: AIDS" exhibit. It was staged at Saddleback Church in conjunction with the church's Worldwide AIDS Summit which kicks off tomorrow. Each person is given an ipod shuffle and is led on a journey through the lives of real individuals living with or affected by AIDS. The exhibit has multiple story-lines and everyone embarks on a different journey. My tour was of a Kenyan Boy named Kombo. Living with AIDS, each stage of the experience gives some small insight into his daily life. Near the end of the exhibit everyone congregates into a room designed as a clinic. Each person is told to get their hand stamped to learn their fate. My stamp was a bright red "+"

In most industrialized nations, AIDS is still a major problem but with new medicines, people are living longer lives. However, in Africa this is not the case and millions of men, women, and children die every year. Its a sad reality. Often the biggest culprit is unsafe sex or drug abuse. AIDS is in many ways, a preventable disease but it is filled with many cultural barriers, especially in Africa.

Over 15 years ago, a very close relative of mine died of AIDS. I still remember visiting him when he was sick. At the time, I did not know what disease he had, I just knew he was sick. A few years later, my parents told me the cause of his death and his circumstances. Since he opted for hospice care, we were able to visit frequently during his illness. I will never forget the stench of the ointments to sooth his wounds and I hope I never do...Near the end of his life, he accepted Christ into his life and I have no doubt that he will be in Heaven one day. Even though, I am sad he is no longer with us, I am glad he is in a better place where there is no pain.

Even though Saddleback receives a lot of criticism for hosting an AIDS conference, I feel that it is vital that the Christian community stands against this disease. We in America have been given so much with regards to technology, money, and influence. In my mind, it is a greater sin to ignore the beggar on the side of the street who is pleading for help. Ignorance is not bliss...IT'S TIME TO WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!

World Vision Experience:AIDS
World Aids Summit

Fittest Women

Yesterday, I heard on the news that according to SELF Magazine, Orange County is the home of the "fittest women" in the United States. I could not agree more and I don't think that it is necessarily a bad thing. I think its great that people in our local communities value the importance of living active lifestyles. People who are physically active have lower levels of disease and depression. Given our perfect weather, it also contributes and motivates women to look and feel their best. On the other hand, the Los Angeles-Long Beach area was rated as the "unhappiest city" in the US.

Fittest Women

Coconut Records

Once every so often, a person stumbles upon a record/band/or song that captures a moment or period in one's life. While at work I was listening to the radio and I came across a song by the band "Coconut Records." They are an indie-rock band headed by former drummer of Phantom Planet and actor, Jason Schwartzman. Now normally, actor-bands are horrible and bring nothing to the table i.e. Eddie Murphy. But this album is quite different. Its a very eclectic mix of folk, dance, and a easy blend of country soul. Vocally, Schwartzman reminds me of Matt Costa and his songwriting is poignant and introspective.

If you like the Shins, Matt Costa, or even Keane you might enjoy this record. Its classic indie-pop but carries enough substance that it will leave you satisfied.

Coconut Records

Everest: Beyond the Limit

Over the weekend, I became hooked on the new season of Everest: Beyond the Limit. On the Discovery Channel, it is a must see. This show is incredibly dramatic on earth's most extreme and deadliest places.

Everest: Beyond the Limit

No Country For Old Men

Tonight I was finally able to see the highly acclaimed motion picture, "No Country For Old Men." It is a story of a botched drug deal in West Texas during the 1980's. Directed by the Cohen Brothers (Bad Santa, O Brother Where Art Thou? and Fargo) it is an adaptdation of a popular novel. The film's nihilistic sentiments overwelm the characters. I have one word to describe this film, "Intense." The role of Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) is perhaps the best performance of 2007. Acting as a psychopathic killer, Bardem methodically hunts those who get in his way. Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin both have strong performances in the movie. Jone's performance as Sherriff Ed Tom Bell might be his best yet, as he attempts to understand the nature of man and expresses his fultility to combat it. Josh Brolin's role as Llewelyn Moss who stumbles upon a suitcase full of money and is thrust into the plot. Down on his luck, a lousy hunter, and full of pride, Moss decides to take the money and casts his life into the hands of fate. In a famous line, Moss remarks "You can't stop what's coming" and the audience is left thinking the same thing.

This movie may not leave audiences fulfilled in the ending but such is life. This is truely the best movie of the year and I am sure it will be nominated for Best Picture. A film not for the weary, this movie is very violent and very suspenseful. It is an absoulte thriller and I recommend it if you are tired of typical hollywood release. A entralling story that will leave each person questioning the course of humanity, No Country For Old Men is a powerful, monumental, and introspective examination of reality.

Moving Out (the countdown)

Well, the time has finally arrived...I will be moving out on my own in less than two weeks! The past couple of days have been a rollercoaster. On one hand, I am excited to finally set out on my own and to experience life on a new level. On the other hand, I am a bit saddened knowing that our family will be seperated and things will not be the same. Our family has always been together and that is one of the qualities that makes us unique. It will be very difficult for everyone to adjust to this major change.

I will be moving to Irvine (northwood) into Corby's spare room (pictures to come soon). I will have my own bathroom and the place is in pristine condition. I know that I am mentally ready to move out and that I will be responsible with all of my finances. I wish I could have saved more but I can't change that. I will be determined to make this a positive experience that will help me to grow as a person. Between now and the big day, I will record some of my feelings and aspects as the big day approaches.

Thanksgiving Meal Poll

I am very curious to know what time everyone eats their Thanksgiving meal. I just asked my mom when we would be eating and she said around 1 o'clock. I think that is too early to begin the most important meal of the year. My reasons are threefold. 1. I over slept and my stomach is not ready to eat a full dinner at lunchtime 2. Why the rush? Does another family have a later reservation? 3. I view the Thanksgiving meal more as a dinner than a big lunch.

I hope you can vote on the poll at the right side of my blog. It will be up until Sunday evening.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Wooden On Leadership

With no more homework, I am determined to not watch excessive amounts of TV, play video games for hours, or waste my time doing things that will not help me to be a better person.

Tonight, I bought a new book entitled, Wooden On Leadership by John Wooden. I read the first two chapters tonight and I am excited for the rest. I have always respected John Wooden for his wisdom, faith, and accomplishments. Chapters one and two are filled with so many wise sayings and simple advice on how to approach success.

Wooden on success..."Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable."

"Don't worry about whether you're better than somebody else, but never cease trying to be the best you can become. You have control over that; the other you don't."

"Be at your best when your best is needed."

"The heights by great men reached and kept,
Were not attained by sudden flight.
But they, while their companions slept,
Were toiling upward in the night."
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

After reading the first 30 pages, I cannot wait until tommorrow and the rest of the weekend to read the rest of this insightful book!!

Tusca-new-la-stin-lin

Check out the new AT&T commercial featuring the Undefeated store in LA and the owner Eddie Cruz. Also, in the third store, there are a few Stussy shirts in the cube-shaped display.

Pena Picks

Here are some bands that have been in heavy rotation on my itunes. Give a listen.

VHS or BETA "Bring on the Comets"


Radiohead "In Rainbows"


She Wants Revenge "This is Forever"


Jimmy Eat World "Chase This Light"


Joy Division "The Best of Joy Division"

Free Time

If you have not heard, I am done with my business program at Vanguard. The last two years have been a complete blur with many great experiences and countless trials. I have learned a lot and I am glad that I enrolled. Now that I am done, I have a lot of free time on my hand. Normally, Mondays were my study/cram night. Tonight was very pleasent. I cleaned out my closet, threw a few school papers away which was quite enjoyable and I just relaxed. It feels so good.
Having an abundance of free time, I need some ideas. I want to start reading books, being on the computer less, and be more physically active. Any ideas?

The Prez

This puts a smile on my face everytime.

On the Eve..

On the eve of my final class at Vanguard University, I am a bit numb to the idea that a major chapter of my life is coming to a close. Devoting the past 2 years to this program has taught me a lot about myself. A part of me is relieved that I will be finished, but a growing part of my being is wanting to return to those first days in 2007. I am in a weird place in my life and I don't know what to do next. I want to return to something simpler.

Sometimes I feel like I am Charlie Brown. A person who is often led by his innocence and naivety, I often find myself disappointed at the end of day. Life can be cruel. It is full of letdowns. I feel beat down constantly. My back is on the ground looking up into the sky. I want to finally kick the football.

Laughing Out Loud

I just discovered that Vitamin Water has the best commercials.

today

I am exhausted.

I'm not even excited to finish school on tuesday. Wierd.

There's Only One October

Anyone who has watched baseball during the last month has seen those Dane Cook promos. I liked this one the best...

Sonic Burger

On the west coast, we do not have many Sonic Burgers. During the MLB playoffs they have been advertising heavily on TBS. From what I know, Sonic burger joints are popular throughout the southern part of the country. One of the trademarks of Sonic establishments is their "drive-in" motiff. People are served and eat in their cars. This raises a few observations:
1. Why would anyone want to eat in their car in the hot south? You can still turn the AC on but you still waste gas..
2. I can't stand eating in my car, its something I do only if I absolutely need to.
3. People in Southern California spend too much time in their cars to be begin with. That is why I believe this concept will not work out here.
4. Their commercials are lame. (I am watching one right now...on TBS)
5. Losing french fries in between seasts and having a greasy steering wheel is NOT fun.

Angels Message Board

The last 24 hours, I have been monitoring the Angels official team message board. Most of the posts agree with me in that we need to clean out the front office. I came across this great post by a fan. I thought it was hiliarious.

Hot Stove notes!

Angels
Free agents likely to pursue:

SS - David Eckstein (Cardinals)
1B/OF - Darrin Erstad (White Sox)
C- Jose Molina (Yankees)
OF - Jose Guillen (Mariners)
P - Paul Byrd (Indians)

A source close to club who did not want to be named said that the Angels were interested in obtaining pitcher Jarrod Washburn (Mariners)and St. Louis super sub Scott Spezio along with Cardinal teammate Troy Percival.

In other news Tim Salmon is working out again in hopes of getting a non roster invite from Bill. Also, Troy Glaus may have his contract terminated by Toronto and if the rumors of HGH are true then he could fill a power void at 3B for the Halos

Minor League News:

Stoneman has brought in Alex Ochoa from Japan and Bengie Gill from the Mexican League to provide organizational depth. They will play in Salt Lake City.

I Told You So

Yes, those were the four words I was referring to on my previous blog. All season long I was criticized for not being a "true" Angel fan because I doubted our ability to score runs. The Angels have had an anemic offense for the last three years and enough is enough. We have been fed lies by Arte Moreno and Angels GM BIll Stoneman. They do not want to win. They are satisfied only if there is "meat in the seats". Just as long as the Angels hit the 3 million mark in attendance every year there will be no need for real change.

The smallball approach has failed and I think the Angels need a new approach. The Angels must be built with the mindset to defeat Boston. No exceptions. Anything less than and WS is unacceptable. Getting to the playoffs is not enough. Vladdy is not getting any younger and we owe it to him to add some REAL protection in the everyday line up. Getting bounced by the Red Sox again in three straight is an embarressment and if the Angels do not make any significant moves this offseason then they never will.

My suggestions:
1. Fire Bill Stoneman (He is a failure)
2. Fire Mickey Hatcher
3. Sign Andrew Jones
4. Trade Santana, Figgins, and another top prospect for another bat
5. Do not resign Bartolo Colon

Those four words...

Its not time yet to say it but if the Angels don't bring their "A game" on sunday, say goodbye to another dissappointing season.

The Second Season

The MLB playoffs begin tomorrow with an awesome triple header starting with the Philadelphia Phillies vs the Colorado Rockies, the Angels vs Red Sox, and the Diamondbacks vs Cubs.

Of course, the Angel game will be my priority and I am excited that the Halos are in the playoffs after a year absence from October play. The Angels are nursing a few notable injuries, Gary Matthews Jr was left off the playoff roster because of a knee injury and Bartolo Colon because of a sore arm. Vladimir Guerrero will not play in RF because of tendinitis but will DH and Garret Anderson has an eye infection but stated that he is fine.

The Angels have not experienced a great deal of success facing Boston. Going back to 1986, the Red Sox have been the perverbial thorn in the side in the Angels. In more recent memory, the Sox swept the Angels in the first round in '04.

I feel that the Angels have a deeper bench compared to 2004 and have a better situational offense than in 2004. Not since 2002 have the Angels had the ability to come from behind. This year, we led the majors in that category and I think before this series is over that stat will be a factor. I will list a few keys to tomorrow's game and I will be recaping the Angels postseason as it unfolds.

Keys to Game One
1. Lackey Must Control His Emotions On The Mound
2. 1st to 3rd. Angels Must Pressure The Sox Defense With Agressive Baserunning
3. Don't Try to Do Too Much With The Bat
4. Angels Led The MLB In Comeback Wins
5. Ignore The Past!

Odely Chivas

Last night, I went to my first ever real soccer match. It was between Chivas USA and the Chicago Fire. I have been following soccer and the British Premier League more than ever before and I am finally realizing how popular and exciting this sport really is. The game was at the Home Depot Center in Carson and it was packed out with fans of both teams. The Chivas are extremely popular with Mexicans and they are very passionate about their goats.

Cuauhtemoc Blanco is the most popular player on the Chicago Fire and is treated as a God among most of the mexicans. He was a player on a team that is the arch-rival of the Chivas team in Mexico. Half the stadium went banannas whenever Blanco touched the ball.

The game was exciting and had a little bit of everything. Skirmishes at midfield, numerous yellow cards, penalty kicks, ejections, and contraversy at the end of the match. The stadium was surprisingly loud from start to finish and it was a great experience. I think that my admiration for soccer great tremendously last night.

American Gangster

Who wants to see this with me??

School

I can't wait for school to be OVER. I am dying right now.

Jackassess

They are everywhere

US Americans

I'm sure most of you have already seen or heard about Miss Teen South Carolina. I think this proves that Americans are the dumbest people on the planet.

Power Surge

The Texas Rangers blasted the Baltimore Orioles today scoring 30 runs! That is the most runs recorded by one team since 1897.

El Presidente

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is proposing a radical overhaul of his country's constitution. Virtually unopposed, it is certain that Chavez will get his way. His constitutional reform will include perpetual re-election for himself. So, until he dies naturally or if some staff aide shoots him in the back (pray for the latter) it will be a dark time for this oil-rich country.

At the end of a recent speech, Chavez said, "I doubt there is any country on this planet with a democracy more alive than the one we enjoy in Venezuela today."


FYI: CITGO and VALERO Gas is affliated with the Venezuelan government which can be tied to Chavez. Don't go there.

Chocolate Rain

Tay Zonday is a phenomenon. His video Chocolate Rain is becoming one of the most viewed videos in YouTube's history. Adding to his fame is the proliferation of copycat videos.

Tre Cool from Green Day (hilarious)


McGruff Remix


Brian Griffin

Hal Fishman (1931 - 2007)

From the earliest age, I have always enjoyed watching the news. On August 7th, 2007 long time KTLA anchorman Hal Fishman died from cancer. Known as the "Flying Professor" for his love of flying and his days as a professor of political science, Hal Fishman was a fixture on Los Angeles tv since 1965.

I would often watch KTLA at 10 pm usually on tuesdays after a long day of work and school. I always liked Hal's honesty and old fashioned work ethic. He was very precise and it was clear to all that he valued and loved his job. Despite his age, it always amazed me that Hal never lost his relevance and embraced change. Hal was a fixture and I always felt that he was delivering the news directly to me as if he were in the same room.

LA will be different without the steady leadership and vigliance of Hal Fishman. Some have compared Hal as the Chick Hearn of newsbroadcasting. When Hal was not behind the anchor desk, you knew something was wrong. And just like Chick Hearn, Hal did not retire and lived his final days doing the thing he love the most.

A standard that will never be matched, Hal's legacy will be the dedication, desire, honesty, and integrity he brought to the evening news.

Now Featuring: Ratatouille at Angel Stadium

In today's OC Register, it is reported that within the last 2 1/2 years, the OC Department of Health has cited Angel Stadium for 118 vermin violations. Angel's VP of Communications Tim Mead confirmed that cleaning crews wait at least 12 hours after each game to clean the entire stadium. Unclean dishes, pots, utensils remain unwashed and garbage litter the stands for at least half a day!!!! In my mind, this is totally unacceptable. By comparasion, Petco Park in San Diego and Dodger Stadium immediatly clean their facitilites.

I point the finger at the Arte Moreno for awarding the food contract to Aramark. Aramark employees are a disgrace. I would venture to say that they were the lowest bidder and we are now reaping the fruit. I was recently at Dodger Stadium and I honestly thought to myself how nice the stadium looked. I have also been to Petco Park and their concession clerks are very approachable and helpful unlike the skid row employees at Angel Stadium.

Dog Days Ahead

Angels GM Bill Stoneman

Today was the MLB trading deadline. For the second year in a row, the Angels failed to make a major acquisition to improve their club. Without the presence of a power hitter, it will be very tough to win in October.

I came across this article from Jeff Passan at Yahoo Sports. It expresses exactly how I feel as an Angel fan.

• Los Angeles: The Dodgers and Angels both needed a bat in the middle of their lineups. The Dodgers and Angels still need a bat in the middle of their lineups. Their eagerness to hold onto prospects is admirable, certainly, but there comes a point at which their gunshy nature – particularly the Angels' – becomes a detriment. The Angels have the pitching to win the AL West, maybe even the pennant. But that lineup just won't do it

"Little Bart"

11 yr. old Luis Castillo from Tustin helped the Angels win today's game by reaching over the out-of-town scoreboard to grab a ball hit by Garret Anderson. The umpires missed the amazing catch and it was ruled a homerun instead of a ground rule double. The kid admitted that he felt the ball was not a homerun and reached over the fence anyway. Truely, a home field advantage that the Angels desperatly needed.

The kid already has a nickname: "Little Bart"
Below: Angels Pitcher Bartolo Colon

Phillies Hit the Tarp

Watch as members of the Philadelphia Phillies aide the Colorado Rockies' groundscrew. Of course, thats about the only thing the Phillies are good for these days but you gotta admit it was classy of them to help out. Even the umps got into the act.

All-Star Moments

Since we are in the midst of the All-Star Break in baseball I felt it is an appropriate time to revist a few defining moments of the adventures of Bear Grylls.

Gone Fishing in the European Alps


My personal favorite. Man vs. Bunny. Amazing!


The Ultimate Bear Moment! This deserves the MVP award. (Most Valuable Pee).

Robots In Disguise

Knowing full well, that Michael Bay was directing Transformers I had little or no expectations for this long-awaited film. Over a year ago, I was one of the unlucky ones to watch Bay's film, "The Island." Probably the worst film in recent memory, if anyone wants a preview of what to expect of Transformers then watch that movie first. Bay's senseless and reckless use of explosions, cheeky humor, coupled with his inability to create meaningful characters doomed The Island and it certainly dooms Transformers.

Transformers clocks-in just under two and a half hours and by all estimates its length is a bit laborious. I felt that Bay failed to capitalized numerous times on certain objects and situations to develop a greater attachment to the focal pieces. My overall rating is a B. Transformers has moments and at times periods of smart acting. However, leave it to Michael Bay to morph this beloved series into a specticle that ultimatley deforms into a roadside wreck.

Anime Adventures

If there is one thing about me, it is that i LOVE anime. Being the anime enthusiast that I am, I ventured with my brother to the Anime Expo this past weekend at the Long Beach Convention Center. Ok, time for a little honesty. I don't have any interest in anime whatsoever. Although, I do have an interest for Japanese culture, anime has never been a passion of mine.

As expected, there were a ton of people dressed up as their favorite characters. Guys dressed as ninja lords carrying their handcrafted swords, chicks dressed with high socks and the shortest mini skirts, and even people wearing racoon tails. Yes, racoon tails...

Anyways, it was an interesting experience. I took a ton of pictures. If you like to people watch, it is definatly the place to be.

STRIKE

The supermarket stike is near...i don't like unions.

I really want to cross the picket lines. Those cashiers earn so much money for the most mundane tasks. Seriously, how hard is it to swipe groceries on the conveyer belt...

We can probably do away with 50% of overheard if they just introduced more self-checkout stands. Less overhead = lower costs...

Man vs. Wild

Although it is awesome to see a guy wander alone in the wilderness, I think that a lot of his stunts are planned. What do u think? I just saw Bear Grylls catch a trout while marooned in the French Alps. He did not have the resources to cook it and he bit into it RAW and ate it! Great TV!

Smart Water

Does it really make you smarter??? Although I think its the lamest thing ever, its a smart way to sell filtered drain water.

Depressed

Enough said.

Strike Looming

I don't give a rat's . . . for labor unions. I think they are draining productivity from the American workforce. There may soon be ANOTHER supermarket strike that will affect principlily Albertsons. BUT Ralphs and Vons will join in solidarity with Albertsons employees. If given the opportunity, I will cross the lines. I don't care about unions.

Baseball Is Back

Baseball is back and I am glad. The days are getting longer and summer is just around the corner. The Angels are the favorite to win their division because of their pitching and "improved" defense. I just hope that the Gary Matthews/HGH ordeal will not affect the team in a negative way. A problem that can derail our team, I am hoping for the best. I believe our bullpen is our strongest asset. Anchored by K-Rod and Scot Sheilds, the addition of Justin Spier was a HUGE but often overlooked signing. If our starters can consistantly pitch into the sixth and seventh innings with the lead I know that when the opposition plays the Halos they will be playing a seven inning game. Pitching and defense win championships. That is the recipe for success in Major League Baseball.

All in all,

I am just excited to see baseball again.

Political Vid

YouTube will be a POWERFUL player in the 2008 presidental election. This video was not done by the Obama campaign. The author of the vid is currently unknown.

I Love This

Los Anjealous

Spring Training Day Three 3/10/07

The final day of our trip had arrived. We got to the ballpark at 10 instead of 11:30 for a 1:05 game. Today, the Angels were playing the hated Oakland A’s. Adjacent to the main parking lot there are three practice fields and a number of the Angels were taking batting practice. Angels’ such as Bartolo Colon, Jered Weaver, Scott Sheilds, and Kelvim Escobar were catching fly balls and giving them to the children. That was cool.

A half hour later, a few of us walked around Tempe Diablo Stadium looking for any balls that were hit out during batting practice. Bryan was lucky and found one and some girls were able to reach through a fence to grab another. Twenty-minutes later, I walked to a walkway where players often walk in between the practice fields and Tempe Diablo Stadium. I was able to snag a few autographs from a few minor leaguers. Alex was able to get relief pitcher Justin Spier. But I thought he was just another minor leaguer. I was bummed because Spier was one of our big free-agent acquisitions.

When the gates opened at 11:30 I went to the first base line and waited for more autographs. I waited for until 12:45 until I scored and got John Lackey and Jered Weaver on separate balls. That made my day because I really wanted Jered Weaver’s autograph since last year. Alex and Jonathan were able to get Angel shortstop Orlando Cabrera’s autograph. Sunday was a great success.

The game went back and forth between the Angels and the A’s. The A’s jumped out in front early but the game was equalized by a solo homerun in the bottom first inning by Casey Kotchman. The Angels carried the lead for most of the game but in the eighth inning the A’s jumped into the driver’s seat. Unable to mount a rally, the Halos fell to the A’s. I really didn’t care if the Angel’s won but I was just excited to see them play. Baseball season is just around the corner and I can hardly wait!

Overall, the trip was a lot of fun. Although, I felt the players were not as accessible this year compared to last, it was still plenty of fun. I hope that we can go again next year. Every baseball fan should try to make it to spring training because it is different atmosphere unlike the regular season.

Spring Training Day Two 3/9/07

We were expecting to get a lot of autographs today. We got to the ballpark at 11:30 for a 1:05 game. The five of us decided to wait near the Angels dugout for autographs. Brian got lucky early by getting Angel great Booby Grich to sign a baseball. We were able to get a few autographs but there were mostly from players trying to make the sqad. I got nothing….

The game was exciting for a few innings because the Mariners, won the game 14-2. Our seats were down the first base line. We were not as close like Friday but we were in the shade for the entire game. There was a bit more cloud cover compared to Friday and that made increased the humidity a tad but it was still great baseball weather.

After the game, we upgraded our rooms to the fourth floor of our hotel. We knew from past experience that a few baseball players stayed on the fourth floor of our hotel. The upgrade included a free mini bar and a free continental breakfast in the morning.

After that, we met up with Tim’s sister and her husband Mike who lived outside of Scottsdale. They fed us and we relaxed at their house for a few hours. On the way back to our hotel we went to a mall called Arizona Mills. It was basically The Block of the Phoenix but indoors. So, that was the end of day two. With one more day to go, we were optimistic that our fortunes would turn…