Day Three Hundred and Two

The Smokin Hot Third Start

Today was something of a special day. And it kicked off with this lineup. Adam was set to pitch, which always makes my day just a little bit better (I absolutely LOVE watching him throw). To add to his start, one of our big leaguers, Emelio Bonifacio, started in center field and led off the batting order. Someday, maybe Adam will get to play with him for real in Miami! Right now, the Marlins center fielder is on a rehab assignment with the Hammerheads until July 12th because of a sprained thumb that he ended up having surgery on. It was neat to see the talents of a major league baseball player up close. It was even better, though, watching the talents of my husband as he battled through a wickedly hot summer day in Fort Myers. 

It was just too hot for a baseball game today. Especially one scheduled for a 1:05 PM start. That's not nice. Not in Florida. Somebody should be punished for putting us all through that sunny torture. But, luckily for me, and not so lucky for the other 100 fans sitting in the stands, I went ahead and brought an umbrella to the game. Best decision of the day. I'm currently nursing a sunburn and didn't want to turn into a complete lobster, so I sat up close, flipped open the artificial shade, and was probably 20 degrees cooler than I would have been without it! Props to Adam for the good idea!! He's always thinking about me!

As I watched Adam warming up during the first inning, I noticed a little boy who looked like he might pass out from heat exhaustion. He had on three hats - all facing different directions - and was sweating through his shirt. My golf-sized umbrella was room enough for a big person and a little person, so I invited him to come hang out with me in the shade. And so, for the duration of the game today, I had myself a little buddy. I think I could definitely get used to a miniature buddy by my side...watching Daddy work. Ok, ok, enough of that! 

Adam's game statistics showed that he had a decently successful outing today. He, however, told me that he just didn't "feel it" this afternoon. He was nauseous, his arm was tired, and he hadn't barely eaten all day - just some cereal a few hours prior. Given the circumstances, I'm so proud of how he handled himself out there. I could tell that something was bothering him - maybe the sun, maybe his restless night's sleep - but I didn't know what, and he fought hard to keep me guessing. He struggled in the first, giving up two hits to lead off the game and leaving the inning with the score 0-2, but by the fifth, he had a good game going. He went 5 innings, gave up 5 hits, 3 runs, 0 earned runs, 1 walk, and 3 strikeouts. His ERA is currently a 2.40. After the game, Adam explained that if his bad days look anything like today, then he's got a good thing going. The minor leagues give players the opportunity to learn, develop, and struggle. Adam struggled today. But he's better for it.

The early game time might have slightly ruined the comfort of my day, BUT, it definitely perfected the happiness of my night. Yes, it was light out...AND Adam was by my side!!! Wahoo! That meant: dinner during actual dinner time!!! This doesn't happen often...So, we drove up the west coast of Florida and found ourselves a cute little crab shack on the ocean. We each ordered a drink and relaxed as the sun set in the background. 

(And yes, mine came complete with a gummy fish!)

I can't explain how nice it was to sit down and enjoy the company of my most favorite person. Just the two of us. He's everything to me. And lately, I've realized just how incredibly lucky and blessed I am to have Adam in my life. He's such a man. A good, good man. He protects me, guides me, and builds me up daily. The Lord provided me the man of my dreams and I feel so fortunate to call him Husband. I love you Adam.

And if we ever get eaten by a shark, I hope it happens just like this. In your arms.