Our Toughest Off-Season Yet
The last several months have been the hardest off-season for the kids and I yet. I wish it was simply because there was no baseball, but unfortunately, it has nothing to do with our favorite sport. Without going into to much detail, I believe a family is like a team, and when one team member is selfish the rest suffer. If there’s one thing this experience has shown me, it’s how strong and special my kids are. I know I’m the dad and it’s my job to take care of them and be there for them, but the fact is they’ve been there and taken care of me more than I ever imagined. I truelly believe that if it wasn’t for them, I’d be in some padded cell right now being spoon fed pudding three times a day. I can honestly say that my kids are my best friends, and I really believe that we’ll be ok…as long as we stick together. We didn’t just hang our heads, though, we kept busy and shared a lot of laughs together this winter. Here’s a few pics from how we survived our toughest off-season…Opening day is on the horizon, and I’m determined to make this summer one of the best they’ve ever had. They deserve it.
Pro Wrestling
Lots of Hockey
Roller Disco
Bowling
Outdoor Fun
Rock Concerts
Photos property of M.I.B
Minoring In Baseball 
Nice pics!
—Mark Gauthier
http://cubden.mlblogs.com/
I’m sorry to hear that Mike. I’d gotten that indication from other things you’ve said. It’s silly and girly but, for what it’s worth, *hugs*. I’m glad to see you and the kids have been able to have some fun this offseason – and from the look of those photos, you’ve succeeded in giving your kids some really good memories of this time too, and that’s no small thing. Here’s hoping the coming months treat you better!
Kristen
http://blithescribe.mlblogs.com/
Mark-thanks for stopping in
Kristen-it’s honestly worth a lot. Thank you.
–Mike
They deserve it and YOU deserve it too! Keep your head high. Your kids will notice. Believe me, I noticed when my dad did after my mom left. The pics you shared show a lot of love and that’s all ya need!
–Jeff
http://redstatebluestate.mlblogs.com/
Mike,
Thanks for taking the time to stop by my blog. I was a little too young for the ’87 Tigers/Jays race, but knowing my Blue Jay history it was great, having George Bell hit 47 homeruns that year (a Jay record until Bautista last year). Those were the days when there was a tiny rivalry with the Tigers/Jays in the A.L. East. Now we are only playing one 2 game series in Detroit for 2011? What is up with that?
Anyway, great toboggining pics. Loved that when I was a kid. I’m still seeing mountains of snow out my window, and we are less than a week away from the season, so I can relate.
All the best,
Jeremy
http://homerfoodandhistory.mlblogs.com/
Jeff-I appreciate the advice. The kids have really kept me going (along with mini-kegs of Hieneken).
Jeremy-It’s too bad Detroit and Toronto don’t play more often. It’s always been a good rivalry. Even in hockey the we hardly see the Leafs which makes no sence.
–Mike
You know the best thing about bad times….The way we recover and stride upwards again. Not only does it shows our little ones strength, courage and determination, but how a simple hug, embrace or glance can show you the bond of family.
I do not want to go philosophical here, but as long as your head is held high and you strive forward, success is in front of you for you to grab hold of. I seriously believe that, and strive for it daily myself.
I remember an old phrase a female friend of mine used to say: “Any fool can be a Dad, but it takes a man to be a Father”. The smile on your kids face is an instant reminder you are making a difference…Embrace it!
Rays Renegade
http://raysrenegade.mlblogs.com