New Year, New Journey

No one really ever knows where life will take us. As Roberts Burns reminds us, "the best laid plans of mice and men" often go awry. Back in December as I sat contemplating a cold winter's day and experiencing that condition described as cabin fever I came across a posting for a springtime opportunity to work the 2017 Baseball Spring Training in Surprise, Arizona. Applying on a whim I was pleasantly surprised when I was offered a position. Fast forward several months and I sit in the Maricopa White Tank Public Library writing this blog having just completed orientation at Surprise Stadium. I'll be working for Aramark, who has the concession rights for the stadium, in one of their retail tents where loyal fans can stock up on all the latest Spring Training gear and apparel for the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals.
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As I was sitting in orientation on a glorious and hot Arizona day I could watch the Royals players taking batting practice just a couple of feet away. The stadium is beautiful and appears to be lovingly taken care of. I chose this gig for a couple of reasons. One was the chance to beat the snow and cold in Colorado, second was a chance to work in a place where customers would generally be in a good mood. The advantage of Spring Training is that the games don't count. Hope springs eternal, all the teams start out equal in their quest for the World Series, and it's tough to be upset eating a hot dog and drinking a beer on a beautiful day.

My nephews would be in hog heaven here. They both play, and love, baseball. Maybe I can talk them into visiting while I'm here. I'm camping in White Tank Regional Park in site 29 which has an incredible view of the city lights at night. My wife is still at home working her day job and while I miss her dearly I find myself with spare room in the camper.

So we will see where this 6 week adventure takes me. The people I'll be working with all seem nice and the Aramark manager, Danny, even provides a small pre-game meal to the staff on the days we work.

So thatš it for now. Wherever you may be I hope your day is  as beautiful as it is here. Batter up!