I am on sabbatical until November 30th.

I almost missed out on one of my best days here.

I have to confess that my “vacation” hasn’t been all that relaxing at times as unforeseen circumstances have heaped some stress my way. I’m so thankful for the graciousness of my hosts, and today was no different. Chris snagged some behind home plate tickets for us to the Tacoma Rainiers game. I haven’t been to a baseball game in 13 years.

Earlier today I was feeling emotionally drained, and not in the mood to go to a baseball game. Without realizing it I think I was just setting my mind to brood mode. But Rochele really wanted to go to the game and it was hard to say no to her. So, we met Chris’ son-in-law, Joe, at his place in Tacoma and he took us to the ball park for a night of baseball.

I thought about taking my camera and seeing what kind of sport shots I could get. I routinely shoot the Eagle TV sporting events and Nadaam, so I figured, why not shoot a bit tonight? But as I was getting ready to go I realized, “Why do I need to turn this into something to accomplish? Why can’t I just go and watch some guys hit a round ball with a round bat and run around the bases? Why can’t I just chill out?”

I left the camera home.

Best decision I’ve made all week.

My deep thanks to Chris and Joe for the tickets, transport, and company; and to Rochele for the nudge.

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Minor update: I read a blog comment somewhere where a guy criticized me as a hypocrite because the picture above shows me hanging out with a “babe” having a “bud.”

Dude. Read the above more carefully.

Forgive me, but…what a dork.