Day Three Hundred and Fourteen

The Fifth Start, The Dermatologist, The Cable, The Birthday

I started off today bright and early. My 10 AM wake up call had me a bit sluggish, but I'd soon find the pep in my step roughly an hour later. Remember me promising that I'd go get a skin cancer screening?  Well, that's exactly what I did. And good news...no skin cancer! The doctor did, however, have a few choice words for me. In the most professional way he could muster, the doctor demanded that I wear 30 SPF at all times, purchase all long sleeve shirts, and put some sort of zinc paste on my face to reflect the sun. He then told me that Adam should do the same. And I quote, "Do you know how many faces I've had to cut chunks of skin out of? Too many. And don't forget about the sides of your face and your ears." Point taken. He said that right now, my skin looks great. No sign of any growth. Doc then added that my freckles will eventually turn into "crinkles and then to wrinkles," but that I can push back the aging process by wearing sunscreen. Ok ok. I get it. I got it. SPF 30. At all times.

There's my athlete!!! Adam started his fifth game as a Hammerhead this evening and pitched really well. He's still on a five inning limit, but made the most of his short outing. Although he did give up a few more hits than usual, he looked like himself again...confident and effective. And his slider was nasty tonight too. That's what I'm talking about! Over the first four innings, Adam's fastball was clocked from 90-93 MPH. And then the fifth inning came along. And his fastball velocity? 94-96 MPH. Adam apparently had a little bit of gas left in the tank and wanted to use it up before he left the game. Ok, Hubby! I wonder how hard he'd throw if he came out of the bullpen? Hey, a girl can dream!

His line for the night:

5 IP, 7H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 5 K. And the W! He's 2-1 now! 

Guess what?! Adam and I are currently sitting in a REAL living room, with REAL cable and REAL internet!! And the couch is REALLY big too! Wahoo! This is the life! After tonight's game, we were invited to use Bill's (our friend from Christ Fellowship) home to enjoy our shows in comfort. He even went to the store and bought us some snacks to munch on for our Breaking Bad and The Franchise viewings. He's been such a blessing and quite the helpful hand ever since I ran into him at Starbucks. And we're thankful for his warm hospitality and sweet friendship.

-AND-

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!

I don't think I could ever thank you enough for the loyalty, strength, and courage you've shown me over the years. I've learned so much by your example and know that when you used to tell me, "One day, you'll understand," I actually understand now. You've faced more in these last 20-something years than I ever could've imagined, but have always maintained your role as a servant to your children. To say that you love your family is an understatement. You would literally do anything for us, and I pray that one day, I'll show the same kind of love for my family that you've shown to us. We're 5 incredibly blessed children and wouldn't be where we are without your guidance, support, wisdom, and affection. Thank you for all you've done for us, all you do for us, and all that you will do for us. You're an absolutely amazing woman, and I can't wait for all the years and years to come. You're my best friend, Mommy, and I love you dearly. I miss you incredibly, and I would've made a cake for you if I were there...but I KNOW you've had a wonderful day...I'm just sad I couldn't give you a special birthday hug to top it off. XOXO.