My day began when I woke at 5am, determined to get an earlier start than the last mid-week morning start.  I pulled out of the driveway at 5:30, hoping it would be early enough to beat the rush.  It was, but as I began westward, the traffic report spoke of an overturned car on the Throggs Neck Bridge.   The Bronx Bound side of the Bridge would eventually be closed, so I reluctantly shifted into Truck Driver mode and “recalcualted” to the Whitestone Bridge.  It was not easy as the snarl was already backing up.  I admit, I may have reverted to some aggressive driving, in order to extract myself.  

It worked out pretty well, and all in all I made a pretty good “Escape from New York”.  As I cruised west on the Cross Bronx Expressway and over the George Washington Bridge into New Jersey, the rear view mirror showed a beautiful sunrise with first Long Island and then NYC in front.  Seven hours, several phone calls (thank you Diana, for checking in and helping me pass the time) and a whole lot of Satellite Radio later, I arrived in Erie.  Along the way, I was able to make an Oil Change appointment at Bianchi Honda on Peach Street in Erie, for 2pm.

While I was thrilled to get the appointment, I was a bit concerned that the car would not be ready in time for me to get to Tullio Field at Mercyhurst by 3pm (yes, for the warmups!).  I arrived early, and was thrilled and impressed that I was out of there in 30 minutes!  Though now I am wondering if they actually changed the oil.

I arrived in time for the warmups, and got that familiar, almost gametime feeling, as the lineups were announced before Laker Attacker, Judy Rescott delivered another wonderful rendition of the National Anthem.  I know that these games are dwindling, and I am truly grateful to be able to be present – happy and sad, all at once.

“Hurst is Home”, is one of the Mercyhurst slogans, and it really felt like that today, as the Lakers thrived in front of an impressive mid-week, afternoon crowd.  They jumped out to an early 2-0 lead.  It was 9-2 at halftime and the Lady Lakers never looked back, en route to a solid and satisfying 16-4 victory!  After a pretty tough stretch, it was great to see the team Ring The Bell, again!

I visited with several parents before everyone went on their way, and I went with Diana to the Gym, where she participated in a Student/Faculty Fundraiser Volleyball game.  I was so pleased, seeing her having fun (and holding her own!) with her friends.  As I headed back to the hotel, I reflect on another great day, and feel more than fortunate to be doing this, and again grateful for all of those who I am getting to know along the way!

I am already looking forward to the next game!