Happy Birthday, Gavin

So, Gavin, it seems you are still crazy as ever about sports.  Just remember that there are other important things in life too – like eating and breathing, oh yes, and family and church…, …and Birthdays!  We have really enjoyed seeing some of your recent exploits posted by your biggest fans - your parents.  And you are so versatile! 

Gavin is always shooting hoops night and day, loves baseball and football and is a super Arizona Fan! 

  Reminds me of me – being able to have young playing experiences in football, basketball and baseball.  And reminds me of your Uncle Brett – every spare second, he was out shooting hoops in our carport at Bluefield just like you in front of your house. Grandma’s younger brother Jim, also played those sports –  he was a pitcher for St. David HS, and recorded several “no hitters” there.  But you can’t play forever (just ask Uncle Vince!), and at some point you will have to hang up the cleats and become a Ref – I mean an Official – I mean a fan (or all of the above)!  And speaking of fans, the Copa (Cup) America is currently being played in Chile.  It is for all the countries from Mexico, Central and South America – in soccer (they call it “futbol” here).

  And yes, the fans are truly dedicated (just ask Uncle Will!).  For instance, tonight Chile played Bolivia in Santiago, and all today there were lots of street venders (sellers) selling all sorts of “fan” stuff – like hats, wigs, shirts, horns, bam sticks, etc.  Chile's colors are Red, White and Blue and the team is called "The Red" (El Rojo).

  As I write this, the game is playing, and even though we do not have a TV, we know what the score is (well, Chile’s score anyway) because every time Chile scores, we hear lots of horns, car horns, yelling and cheering from all the houses and apartments.  By the way, Chile won 5-0.  They are even having some of the games here in the Valparaiso Stadium (home of the “Santiago Wanderers” – a pro team that represents Valpo, but has the name Santiago!?)

Your Dad said it best about you when he said, “Gavin, our oldest, is such a great kid and a good example to his younger brother and sister.  He’s always willing to help out, and he may possibly love sports even more than I do—just a great kid!"  Thanks Gav, THAT is what is really important in life – just be a good person and care about others. 

So, Gavin, it is getting late, and it is important for us athletes to get good rest, so “Good night.  …and have a great 9^th B-Day tomorrow!”

Love, Grandpa