I have been checking the weather almost hourly since last night. It’s starting to look like we might actually get this game in before the monsoons hit later tonight. Still, I’m not taking any chances. I have all of my foul-weather gear ready to go and a good pair of running shoes on so I can make a dash across the street for the truck if required.
A sane person would go home and listen to the game on the radio on a night like we’re expected to have here. However, I believe that there is nothing like Opening Day/Night at the ballpark. After driving by a dark and still Harbor Park too many times during the winter (including driving by it sideways during that one very-frightening Friday ice storm), the park will soon come to life with everything that we know and love. It will capture all of our senses, as it always does. The familiar sights of the picnic area in left field, the huge TV screen in center field, the party deck in right, the neon of “Hits at the Park Open To The Public” glowing in the window, Rip Tide dancing on the dugouts, and the goofy between-innings games will again greet us. The smell of pizza, pretzels, burgers, hot dogs, and beer will float through the concourse once again. These things will taste better than they do anywhere else on Earth. We’ll finally hear the old-time music, cheering fans, national anthem, announcements, and new “walk-up” music. And, it will feel cold. The wind off the Elizabeth River this time of year is unforgiving and, of course, “Blowing Out To Left”.
You don’t get all of that on the radio, even if you do stay dry and warm.
So, I’m optimistically going to get my ticket later today, and I’ll write you again from Harbor Park tonight.
Possum Plantation Post 