Day Two

The best thing about the UIC softball field is the Chicago skyline in the background; Sears Tower—I’m a traditionalist when it comes to building names—looms over the centerfield scoreboard.  The worst thing about the UIC softball field is its proximity to Lake Michigan.  The wind blows off the lake most days in April, yesterday included, and aluminum bleachers hold the cold all too well.  So does my butt.

I saw a hint of the new Clare after the game when she gently instructed a player to help another carry some gear.  Today, I may see a bit of the old Clare.  The Cubs are off to a 7-1 start, End Times.  Last night, the Blackhawks lost the first game in their playoff series with St. Louis; the sky is falling!  The Bulls didn’t make the playoffs.  Really, does anyone outside the Bulls’ front office care?  All I know is my daughter is supposed to come home this afternoon.  She graduates with a master’s degree (which will still leave her one less than the old man) and is in the process of cleaning out her apartment.

After we unload her car, there may be time for a little hitting at the batting cages.  Such a sweet swing you’ve never seen.