First off, a resounding round of thanks to the hostmeisters, Dave and Lisa, for again providing a fun-filled atmosphere complete with alcoholic/caffeine beverages, the best eggplant in the universe (courtesy of Staven\'s own John & Maria\'s), the best friends in the universe, and all the other amenities needed for an outstanding party. As always, the Summer Pool Party at Pec\'s was one of the prime events of the season.
Anytime you get a group of people to play a wiffle ball game at a party in which the structure and rules are maintained throughout, you\'ve accomplished something. It was an exciting, tight game that was up for grabs the whole time. I thought my grand slam was going to pave the way for a blowout, but the opposition had more success with the long ball, including a two-run bomb off me on a fastball that I served up like a plate of John\'s & Maria\'s eggplant which broke the 4-4 tie they never relinquished. Friggin\' lefties. But the game was worth it if for nothing else than to see 10-year old Mike throwing two stellar innings as well as bringin\' it at the plate. Gotta love a little guy wanting to prove himself against the older folks and doing just that. Glad I drafted him.
Also glad to see my frenzied exit draw such rave reviews. I was about to leave anyway when those two riffraffs, Spacebrush Maturo and Kevin Ross, grabbed me in an effort to dunk me in the pool, fully-clothed. Now I had already been in a ton, and it wouldn\'t have been awful if they got me, and I surely thought I was done for. But then I thought really quick "hey, they\'re more drunk than I am so I can probably escape," and proceeded to kick my way out like a mental patient trying to free himself from being forced into a straightjacket. I took me a few seconds, but I got away, after which I threw Kevin\'s hat in the pool, and headed for the hills, scurrying out of the party in short order, and then saluting the 2 a.m. faithful with "THANK YOU EAST HAVEN!!! GOOD NIGHT!!!" I have to give myself a little pat on the back. It was well done. I considered going back for a proper round of good-byes, but I wasn\'t going to be able to top that. Plus, if I went back, I was likely pool-bound. A tremendous end to a tremdenous day and night.
Thanks again to Dave, Lisa, and everyone who was a part of what is always one of the most enjoyable occassions of the year.
