From as far back as I can remember, we were at one ball park or another watching my Daddy play softball. I, like so many others, remember the smell of the dirt, the taste of the cherry icees and nachos, the sound of the bats cracking against the ball and the cheering spectators. It was just a normal part of our lives. My sister and I played in the dirt and the various playgrounds with our friends and cousins. One I remember fairly vividly had a rocket ship slide. We loved playing there. Softball was such a huge part of my dad's life. It actually kept him away from us a lot because he traveled with tournaments. I was too young during his traveling years to really feel the impact of his absence.
Or else my mom just did an excellent job of keeping my mind off it. Lol Who knows? The game was such a big part of his life that he was devastated when he could no longer play due to physical issues. He played well into his 40s.
My Daddy passed away in 2001 at the age of 51. Gone too soon. A few weeks ago his brother called my mom to let us know that Dad had been inducted into the Softball Hall of fame here. What an honor! It is just special that people still remember him and remember his love of the game and his accomplishments. Today we attended his induction. My older sister, her son, my daughter, and I all accepted in his place. It was really special and emotional. Listening to his loooong list of statistics and unbelieveable averages and records set, my mind was blown. I'm very grateful for those who came out to honor him. I love you, Daddy! Congratulations!
P.S. I'm sharing a lot of pictures lol
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