Enjoying the SWEETNESS of Life! By: Jennie Finch

Enjoying the Sweetness of Life has moved!

2010-07-16T14:14:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

I've moved my blog over to my website. Please move on over to http://blog.jenniefinch.com to continue reading "Enjoying the Sweetness of Life!"

Day #6 & #7 in Caracas & eating Venezuelan Style!

2010-06-28T18:39:00.000-07:00

We played Australia yesterday, we won 9-2. It was a big victory for us as we are collecting wins for the top seed in our pool. We were happy to make it to our game on time... our bus suddenly was lost for about 20min. We made it and with plenty of warm up time. Our bus driver put the pedal to the metal! Tasha was in a braced position the entire ride. We were laughing so hard as we were weaving in and out and around corners to the game. Laughing a little scared, but enjoying the entertaining ride! We have been traveling VIP style here. We have a group of motorcycle officers that stop and hold traffic everywhere we go along with military escorts. Needless to say we get where we are going fast and without stopping. We all definitely could get used to this, especially our LA girls! ;)

After our game we came back to the hotel and got ready for our quest outside of our hotel! We have only seen the hotel and softball fields while we have been here. We were excited to head out and eat some authentic Venezuelan food! It was a Venezuelan Folkloric (llanero style, cowboy style) restaurant, it was beautiful! We had traditional food from the Central Plains of Brainas, Apure in Venezuela. We enjoyed Casabe made out of yuca (it was like a potato chip sort of) with Morcilla (blood sausage) topped with cheese, tomatoes, and avocados as an appetizer. Next we had Tequenos, fried cheese wrapped in yuca and corn dough and of course some arepas! We had Tostones, salted fried plantains... so very good! We started with a gorgeous salad with hearts of palms, avocados, 4 different kinds of lettuce, corn, tomotoes, cucumbers topped with a mayo based dressing ... it was amazing! For our entrees we chose, steak, chicken, or a local white fish! I picked the right seat and was able to try all three. The fish being my favorite. For our sides they served papas fritas (french fries), fried yuca and boiled yuca topped with cilantro. The yuca was my favorite and I enjoyed it served both ways. Its a root with a texture like a sweet potato, I highly recommend it! And of course we never forget dessert, us USA girls love dessert! ;) We had the smoothest most delicious bocado del cielo, translated it means a slice from heaven. Amazing! It was a rich flan served on toasted coconut, usually covered in Baileys, we got the non alcoholic version. Indeed it was a slice from heaven! We had a fun team dinner with our whole crew and enjoyed doing it Venezuelan style! Very tasty!!! Thank You Venezuela!

Today we played the Dominican Republic, we won 10-1. We have our last game of pool play tomorrow against the Czech Republic @ 3pm. Wednesday we will start the medal rounds!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Day #4 & #5 at World's

2010-06-26T20:48:00.001-07:00

We've had a great couple of days here competing for the 2010 World Championships. We started out yesterday with 2 big wins! Our first was against New Zealand, Eileen Canney picked up her first USA victory on the mound! We came back to the hotel and refueled for our game versus the home team of Venezuela. WOW! Oh my goodness it was packed! Crazy!!! The loudest crowd by far we have ever played in front of. It was loud the minute the Venezuelan team stepped on the field. The horns, whistles, chants, waves, and more never once stopped! There was over 7,000 fans in attendance! It was such an amazing feeling taking the field. We could not even hear one another out there on the field. Our non verbal communication skills were a necessity. We pulled out our second victory of the day! A fun one indeed, it will go down in the books!

The Venezuelan team are Rock Stars here... literally! They have a song written for them and even are in the music video! The song is awesome, hopefully we can hook you up with the link for you to hear yourself. We have been rocking out to it non stop. It is so much fun to see, experience, and to feel the love the Venezuelans have for their team. They too have been very gracious and welcoming to us, we are very grateful for the hospitality here! It makes me so excited knowing we will be in Oklahoma City in a few weeks on our home soil for World Cup!!! U-S-A!!!!!!! ;)

Today we played Botswana, we won 20-0. It is their first time qualifying for World's, it proves our sports growth all over the World. It has been so fun seeing them compete and getting the chance to have this experience. After the game they were so very sweet. They were telling us, "One Day, One Day, we will be that good." It made my heart melt... so many lives all over the world have been positively impacted by softball and sports alone! Its so incredible to see the opportunity for women on all continents. We will be leaving our equipment with them and others to help them in their pursuit of sharing and growing this game all over the World!

Yes, we are here to Win... Always! But there is SO much more to it than just winning! We are on our pursuit and mission for both. Enjoying the beautiful country and people of Venezuela, competing one day, one game at a time til the end of our quest and more quests to come. ...On & Off the field!

On a side note it was Lauren Lappin's Birthday today and we had a great celebration for her put on by our sweet hosts! We have the best local Venezuelan crew to help assist us! They are awesome... how awesome? Well let me just tell you this... Opening Ceremonies night our Bus Driver was hit by one of the Fireworks. Yes, hit by one... it was scary! Thank God he is OK and healing... but he didn't even take a day off. He is still driving us and will be til the end! Greeting us everyday with the sweetest smile on crutches with his poor bandaged up foot. Our friends we have made here have been fabulous and have made our stay so wonderful! They brought Lauren the most beautiful bouquet of flowers, a cake, and even sang to her. It was very very sweet!

Next up the Aussies tomorrow at 1pm!

I will tell you what Ace told me tonight on the phone, "Sweet Dreams!"

Believing,
#27

Day #3

2010-06-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

Today we had a big win against China, we won 1-0! It felt good getting our uni's on and competing! Venezuela has really created an Olympic style atmosphere in Caracas! The stadium is gorgeous and the stands were full of people. Cat pitched a great game for us on the mound. Ashley Hansen started us off getting on base and stealing 2nd in the top of the 7th. Lappin moved her to third on a ground ball to 2nd and Tasha came up HUGE with a line shot the pitcher barely tipped with her glove to score Hansen! It was the lone run we needed! It was a great game. Lots of action on defense, I played 1st base. It felt good to get the games started and good to get our juices flowing! The crowd was nonstop with cheers, noise makers, and lots of horns. We are so grateful for all of the support here in Caracas!

You can follow the games @ USASoftball.org! There will be live stats and updates throughout World Championships! Lots of pictures are posted too!

Tonight we are resting up getting ready for our two games tomorrow. We play New Zealand at 11am and then come back to play the home team Venezuela at 7pm! We are expecting lots of people and lots of noise for the Venezuelan game!

The food here has been delicious! Lots of fresh vegetables, chicken, salad, fresh fruit, and of course great desserts! We are enjoying the delish coffee here too! Yesterday we had Watermelon juice with lunch that was quite tasty.

Go USA!

Believing!
#27

Day #2 here in Venezuela

2010-06-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a night! We just got back from opening ceremonies here in Venezuela! All I can say is WOW! It was a spectacular show! The stadium is beautiful its surrounded by the gorgeous green mountains here. It was packed with excited prideful anxious Venezuelans! It was so awesome to see the excitement and pride they have here for their country. The show was filled with body moving music, lots of dancers, performers, skits, the biggest fireworks show I have ever seen, and it ended with President Chavez closing it with a speech. We were given some rockin' hats to wear too!

It was a spectacular show they had a group of dancers to represent each of the 16 Countries here at the World Championships. They had dancers dressed in the appropriate attire and they danced to the music of that country. It was incredibly amazing to watch!

The highlight of the night for me was us each able to walk out on the field with a young Venezuelan child. My little buddy was 5 years old and he had the cutest smile. He melted my heart along with filling it with pure joy as I miss Ace dearly! We hit it off instantly, especially after I pulled out my phone and let him play all of the games I have for Ace on it. It was too cute! It blew my mind too as soon as Mr. Chavez started speaking he looked up from the game, made eye contact with me and said, "Chavez!" We had a lot of fun watching the firework show from the field together. He was a sweet little boy and we manage to hold a great conversation through the language barrier. It was a special night... I feel so incredibly blessed to have this great opportunity. It definitely was a reminder why playing USA Softball is what it is... A Dream! So many cultures and people from all over the World have been united by our great sport of softball!

We had practice this morning before opening ceremonies. We were thrilled to be able to get it in before the rain. We open up against China tomorrow at 12:30pm. Let the Games Begin!

Buenos Noches Amigos!
Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Long Over Due

2010-06-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hola amigos from Caracas, Venezuela! We are here for World Championships with USA Softball! We landed last night to a warm welcome here in South America! Welcomed with beautiful music, flags, chocolate, lots of smiling faces, and a warm delicious meal of grilled chicken, rice, & plantains! We had an easy drive to the hotel with a police escort and VIP treatment. We are very excited to be here and to start competing.

World Championships now (since the Olympics dropped Softball) is the only event every four years in which the entire world competes. This is our big event. There is 16 teams here competing. We start our games on Thursday we open up against China.

These last couple of weeks have been pretty hectic! The season has begun! We had a wonderful JFSCamp in Colorado Springs over Memorial Day. It was a great group and we had a blast! We even had the wonderful honor of having a camper come all the way from Austrailia! It was a fun weekend all around! Thank You to Widefield High School for hosting such a terrific camp & weekend!

After the weekend we got the exciting news that Casey was called up to the Astros! We are so very proud of him and all he has been through. He has worked so hard and continues to grind it out, knowing the Lord has a special plan for him wherever that may be. I can not put into words his tenacity and drive. I am so proud of him and all he has endured throughout his career. It was so good to see him make it back to the "Bigs"! It's so much fun seeing him out there doing what he loves! He is an Ace for sure no matter where he is! ;)

I was able to sneak up to San Fran for a Giants game and Softball/Olympic Day Celebration they put on. ...And even bobbleheads! ;) I was honored to share the night with a courageous special girl & friend named Cassidy who is battling cancer. We had such an incredible time together with her sweet family! Big thanks to the SF Giants for all the special treats!

The NPF (Nat'l Pro Fastpitch) Season ProFastpitch.com has begun! We opened up against the USSSA Pride for a tough series in Lubbock, TX. We ended up taking the close series 3-2, it was so much fun being back in a Bandits uni with my teammates! We have a great group of girls and I am looking forward to competing with them the rest of this summer!

From Lubbock we headed to Ohio for a couple of days of training & preparing for World Championships. Nothing greater than wearing the red, white, & blue! We played the USA Futures team in a couple of good double headers. Lots of talent and great competition! Even had a special visit from a dear friend and inspiration Emily! She is purely amazing! She too is battling cancer & doing it with so much fight & grace!

Emily and Cassidy remind us all to live in the moment and never take anything for granted. They are true heroes & inspirations to us all! I am so blessed to know them & be forever changed because of them! Each breath is a gift from above! Keep fighting girls! We are cheering for you!

I will try to be blogging while we are here in Venezuela. Selfishly too, it helps me keep busy while I am away from my Aces for 14 days.

Loving this time with our team trying to soak it all up as our days of competing are unfortunately numbered! Living a dream, playing USA!

Dreaming & Definitely Believing!
#27

JF Softball Camping in Ardmore, OK this Wkd!

2010-05-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

We had such a blast just almost 2 weeks ago kicking off our first JF Sofball Camp in Spring, TX! I was so excited to get back out on the field and share the game with so many anxious softballers. It was about time... Spring Sting was our host and they did such a great job, we truly enjoyed getting to know them and sharing the weekend with them! San Jacinto JC, did such a fantastic job assisting us. They brought their "A" Game, they had so much energy & fun out there. It was way over due seeing our, beyond "Fab" Coaches too! This is the best part about what I do is getting on the field sharing the passion and love for this great game with others. We not only share fundamentals of the game but more importantly life lessons way beyond the field.

We had a blast of a weekend with each other! We started out at a Charity Dinner for the Houston Children's Hospital on Friday. Here we are below getting our picture with Nolan Ryan! It was fun getting to dress Toni & Mac up in my clothes for the night... not so much fun for them! ;) It was a fun night for a great cause with some incredible people in attendance. We were honored to have my handsome nephew Brock as our date for the night too.

We look forward to heading over to Ardmore, OK this weekend for another camp! Can't wait to present Healdton Softball with their State Trophy to kick off camp! We are praying for the tornado victims and all of the mid west as the upcoming weather rolls in as they are on our hearts.

Our last camp of the 2010 spring will be Memorial Day weekend May 29 & 30 in Colorado Springs. Register today, http://jenniefinch.net/camps/CO2010.pdf We hope to see you there! We will be opening up our registrations for our Fall 2010 Camps during the summer, keep checking the website!

Believing,
#27

A list of 27 for my MOM!

2010-05-10T20:46:00.001-07:00

Happy 1 day late Mother's Day to all of the Mom's out there! I hope you all had a well deserved most fabulous Mother's Day! I enjoyed my day with my Ace's at a couple of ball fields, a save, and then topped off with a wonderful dinner with them & ice cream on the couch! Actual dinners like sitting down at a table as a family is far and few between during the baseball season we can usually count them on one hand. I was very thankful we were able to share a dinner together at a table as a family... a precious gift!

I am so incredibly blessed beyond words regarding my Mom! She is the best! She is my rock! So many laughs, tears, joy, celebrations, losses, lessons, and so many unforgettable memories. She has shown me and taught me so much about life and love! She is always there for me to talk to, always there to shed a tear with, she has always been there...

I decided I would make a list of 27 (of course) things to share about my mom! ...I could go on forever but will share 27 with you.

1. She took off 3 weeks of work to go with me to China for World Championships hauling Ace over seas with me at 3 months old! (If that's not love...) Oh, we packed for any and every emergency, diapers & food for a year in case we got stuck... it was crazy and we DID it!
2. Getting up at 4 am every morning for work to enable us to do what we loved.
3. Setting up the snack shack throughout High School through 3 seasons a year for 4 years! Volleyball, Basketball, & Softball
4. She is always there to tell me how it is and what I need to hear not what I want to hear.
5. She has put up with a living room table of fan mail for the last 8 years and has gone through every single piece of mail I have received. She helps me answer it all back. Yes, thank her she deserves all of the credit, I just sign.
6. She makes my clean clothes smell like heaven (I cannot figure it out, same soap, same softener... its her magic touch).
7. She makes the best lasagna I have ever tasted.
8. She gives the best hugs & back rubs.
9. She has such a sensitive & caring heart, cries at everything... I am following in her footsteps!
10. She yells during Laker games at the TV! It would scare Ace when he was little, now he yells for Kobe and shouts Go Lakers right with her!
11. She has the most beautiful green eyes I have ever seen!
12. She told me after I pitched a perfect game in HS, if I did another back to back I could get a Guess Watch (which I wanted so very badly), sure enough I did it, she bought it! A fun memory!
13. She is very conservative, my shorts & skirts are never long enough. I appreciate that in her.
14. She adores her grand kids! Seeing her with Ace is the greatest sight!
15. She kept peace (for the most part) in our household with our father/daughter softball world & relationship! :)
16. She's always up to share a bowl of ice cream with you.
17. She bleeds Dodger Blue & now whatever team Casey is with.
18. She took 2 weeks off of work to be with us as Casey was on the road and Ace was just born! (Such a special time we shared... treasured memories forever.)
19. She went to Taiwan and took my Grandma with her to watch me play for the Jr. USA Team. My first USA experience it was so special having them there & reassuring at the age of 17.
20. She is there to listen everyday when I call her.
21. She laughs so hard she cries & coughs.
22. She doesn't wear makeup and is naturally beautiful.
23. We have the same toes.
24. She gets competitive when it matters.
25. She is a woman of faith and loves the Lord!
26. I love her hands, always well manicured and so very soft! She has such a gentle touch.
27. She is my Mom and I adore her!!!

She loves the little things in life and is such a simple person full of love! I am completely overwhelmed with such appreciation and gratitude for all she has been, sacrificed, and cont. to be in my life! I love you Mom! I thank the Lord above daily for blessing me with a Mother like you!

She has taught me and enabled me to always Dream & Believe!
#27

New Jersey to Long Island

2010-04-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was awesome! Softball season is here! I had such a blast hanging out at our tournament at the beautiful Diamond Nation & JF Softball Academy this past weekend. It started off with a Pizza Party with all of our Ace's (12u, 14u, & 16u) on Friday night. It was a blast grubbing it up on amazing NY Pizza and getting to know the Ace's better. What a great group we have with all of our teams & Coaches! These girls are looking good in their pink & black and looking forward to a summer full of competing!

Here are just a few of the pictures I took with the teams that were in our tournament.

On Sunday I had the privilege to head out to Manhassett High School to meet the Middle School girls and Manhassett High School team. Even though they live in a lacrosse dominated area, it was great to see the passion for the sport of softball there. A group of parents came together after the tragic loss of an amazing Coach & Parent, Rocky, and built a magical field for these ladies to play on. They named it "Rocky's Field" in honor of this dearly beloved man, father, and softball fanatic! It is nicer than some of the college fields that I've played on. It was a very special ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication to Rocky and for all the softball players of the area. You could feel the love for him out there on that field. I want to commend this group of parents for their dedication, hard work, and commitment in honor of Rocky and for the softball players of Long Island. Manhassett High last year was rained out of 80% of their games... quite depressing to work so hard preparing for season and then to only play 20% of their games. Well now Manhassett High has one of the most premier astroturf softball fields in the country and an angel looking down on them. It was such an honor for me to be there and I left inspired! Thank you Manhassett!

I'm training hard getting ready for the 2010 NPF season and competing with Team USA this summer! It is coming up fast! Looking forward to getting back in uniform on the field with my teammates!

We are off to the west coast for a quick television show taping then headed back to Houston/Spring for our first JF Softball Camp of 2010! We are looking forward to kicking it
off in the great state of Texas! Can't wait... its been too long! We have 3 camps this month Houston, Ardmore OK, & Colorado Springs Memorial Day weekend! Spots are still avail! Register today @ www.JennieFinch27.com

Dream & Believe!
#27

A Magical Spring

2010-04-06T06:23:00.000-07:00

Outside the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, cardinals are flying, bees are buzzing, the eggs are hatching, it is so beautiful. It has been a Magical Spring! Celebrating Easter was such a great reminder of why we all have reason to have such an incredible joy and hope within us!

We as a family had a great time down in Florida for Spring Training! We met so many great people and made some very sweet friendships! We had family come visit and we all got to do some of the touristy things that Orlando has to offer. To name a few, catch an Orlando Magic Game, sit on an alligator, and meet President Bush Senior (Ace even ate some of his popcorn), and watch a lot of good baseball! Here are some pictures of our fun Spring!

Casey had such an awesome Spring! He did so incredibly well!!! We are so very proud of him regardless of what he does on the field however he was lights out! :) It was so much fun watching him out there on the mound, so confident, so committed, and so determined! It seems unfathomable that he didn't make the Astros after his terrific spring. Yes, Unbelievable! But as we know the Lord has a plan and we are praying for only His will. My dad sent me this the other day and it is what gives us peace.

"If you are leading your life according to Gods will...then no matter what the situation good or bad...it's exactly where God wants you to be."

I have such great admiration and respect for my "Big Ace!" He continues to plug away, knowing this is exactly where God wants him to be! Daily he is an example for me and our family! He will be starting out with the Round Rock Express and waiting for whatever the Lord has in store.
Thank you for all of your love and support you have shown for Casey now and over the years! We are so incredibly grateful and appreciative. We have been overwhelmed and it has been such a blessing!

This last weekend was such a blast! Casey was able to be home in the spring for the first time in 10 years... the Lord works in mysterious ways! Louisiana is on the way from Florida to Texas, another blessing! ;) We were able to celebrate Easter and Casey's birthday in as Casey calls it, "God's Country!" We had so much fun with family & friends! A crawfish boil, fish fry (Casey catch), dying eggs, Mamaw's crawfish Ettoufee, gallons of sweet tea, Casey's fav yellow cake with chocolate icing (thanks Dee), and lots of fun! I have to admit I do realize why Casey is ever so proud and In Love with the great state of Louisiana!

We have SO much to be thankful for! Wishing you all a beautiful spring full of joy & hope!

Dream & Believe!
#27

PS SO excited for Baseball/Softball Season!!! Let's Play Ball!!!!

Capitol Hill supporting Physical Education

2010-03-15T05:49:00.000-07:00

Last week I joined an incredible list of athletes and the Sporting Goods Manufacturing Assoc. for National Health through Fitness day. Our goal was to try to gain support for the Physical Education Bill. Thank you Mizuno for being so actively involved and allowing me to be a part of raising awareness for a great cause.

It was my 2nd time meeting with Congressmen & Women and Senators in our Capitol. The first time was with the Women's Sports Foundation trying to get support to keep Title IX alive. This time it was quite similar except the atmosphere was much more intense due to the state of the economy & health care.

Overall it was a huge success, we were able in the meetings state our concern for keeping Physical Education in Schools. I learned some pretty amazing facts preparing for our tour.

-Schools are now being built with out play grounds and gymnasiums
-1/3 of our country is Obese & another 1/3 is Overweight
-Kids are 3-4 times more likely to play sports if they are introduced to PE in school
-Kids test scores are higher when involved in sports
-It costs $746 dollars per 1,000 kids to participate in PE, around 75 cents a kid. A math book
averages $7 dollars a kid and some kids have a set of 2, 1 for home and 1 for school. Yet we
are cutting PE?
-For every $1 spent on PE the return is $3.20 long term (health bills & etc)

It is crucial we get our young kids active! I cannot express the importance of this. It is prevention, prevention of diabetes, obesity, self esteem, confidence, and so much more! We have to make it a point and invest in the future of this Country! So many skills from the classroom can be taught through PE, math, problem solving, and etc. We need to be creative and keep our kids moving! Kids aren't safe hanging in the neighborhood anymore, playing til the street lights come on. Most kids stay inside after school are on the computer or playing video games. Parents I want to encourage you to make it a point to join your kids and help them be active. Technology & Electronics have blessed us in so many ways but have cursed us in so many ways also. We have to unite and take a stand to help our kids, they are our future!

Trust me as a mom I know how TV and electronics simplify our lives and I too have to make a point to turn it off! So many times I find myself missing out on interacting with Ace because of electronics consuming him. We've been going on bike rides the last couple weeks and exploring the outdoors together, it has been so enjoyable! We love going to the playground too, meeting new people and playing outside. Let's all join in, get moving & get active!

It was so uplifting meeting so many in the Sporting Goods Industry and on Capitol Hill that are actively supporting this cause and trying to make a difference! I was honored to be a part of National Health Through Fitness Day! Let's all try to do our part and get our kids outside, active, and eating a more healthy balanced diet.

Dreaming & Believing in a brighter future!
#27

Each Minute, Each Breath, A Gift!

2010-03-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

My world was rocked when hearing of precious LaylaGrace... she was called to be with Jesus this week. In her short life of 2 years, the Lord had HUGE plans for her, touching SO many all over the world.

My world was rocked again over a week ago hearing about a young beautiful talented girl taking her own life at 16 years old. Brianne Matthews was a shining star in our sport of softball. She was verbally committed to attend the University of Arizona. She was a 4.0 student. She had such a bright future... My heart aches for her and family.

I cannot imagine what these families are going through... I have been in tears & prayer for them both. In the midst of all of the pain, sadness, despair, and hurt, I am reminded the Lord is in control. I am reminded our time here on earth is so short. We are here one minute, gone in another. May we all make the best of it, cherish it, appreciate it, and love another! I know hearing about Layla Grace and Bre has rocked my world. Every minute, these last few weeks I am reminded what a gift it truly is.

Romans 5:3-5 ³Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; ⁴perseverance, character; and character, hope. ⁵And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Jeremiah 29:11 ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Dream & Believe,
#27

Sweet Precious Little Layla Grace

2010-02-28T21:52:00.000-08:00

@LaylaGrace(via Twitter) has touched so so so very many lives, including mine. She has been on my heart since I heard her story. Please pray for her and her family.

Here is an article written on her that I felt compelled to share.

http://tinyurl.com/ydqef26

Less Shady Gray!

2010-02-25T03:28:00.000-08:00

Everywhere you look around us and within us, we see compromise. We see that shady gray area and are being told Gray is okay. There are so many times in my life I have settled, I have compromised. I want to encourage and challenge us all to stand up for what is Right! I know I need to be more bold in many aspects of my life. It may not be the easy way but I believe the Lord will provide the strength and courage to not only get us through it but bless us in ways we cannot even imagine.

I received an email from a Sunday school teacher about a little girl who told on a classmate for having a hand gun at school. She was scared and not sure she did what was right. No way should this young girl have these feelings, if anything she is a hero and needs to be celebrated!

We as parents, leaders, and adults need to be the ones setting the example for our youth. If we as parents are lying, cheating, and slowly compromising, this is what we can expect from our children. I know I get this feeling in my gut, condemnation... I pray for the strength to do what is right in every situation, big or small. A lot of times we/I think it is okay to do in small situations or we/I try to justify our actions. Many times this is to get ahead in this life. I am reminded in

Matthew
²⁴Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me.²⁵If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.²⁶And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?

I am so grateful for my parents and grandparents showing us & letting us know/see the difference between Right and Wrong, Clean and Unclean, Pure and Impure! Yes, we/I will fall short but we need to know there is a difference between Right & Wrong! I pray, I can and will pass this along to Ace & others. I pray Ace knows the difference and lives it. I pray for more of that gut feeling to know, along with the strength to stand! We as a society need more of this and less Shady Gray!

Believing,
#27

U-S-A!!!!!

2010-02-18T07:36:00.000-08:00

Watching the Olympics this week I have been filled with so much emotion! It is truly amazing! I am filled with such great pride, appreciation, gratitude, honor, passion, and love!

Love for our Country, Sports, Red White & Blue, People from all over the world, Competition, Dreams being a reality... so many things! One of my greatest memories is walking through the tunnel as 1, 1 Country, 1 team, into the birds nest in Beijing chanting U-S-A! I love what the Olympics represent and is, healthy competition among people from all over the world, we are all united. United by Sport. I loved walking through the athlete village and seeing athletes, all different shapes and colors from all over the world, wearing their Countries flags with such great pride! In the dining hall, all different types of food from all over the world! Competing against people who don't even speak your same language. Knowing how different we all are but how much in common we all have! I feel so incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity of being part of something so great, the Olympic Games!

Sports have been able to reunite the world, in a time were there is so much division. I hope you are enjoying the Olympics as much as I have this last week! Truly Amazing!

I remember standing on the podium with my teammates and being overwhelmed with gratitude! I couldn't help but think of all our servicemen & women and their families who have and are sacrificing so much. Thanks to them we were able to accomplish our dreams. I am so grateful for them allowing us and others to play, live, and have these great opportunities.

This picture is from last summer, I'm rounding the bases after Jenae Leles launched a home run vs Australia. But honestly, this is me this past week in front of the TV, screaming, cheering, rooting for USA! ...Minus the helmet & uni! :) In between the podium tears & tears of joy for the incredible individuals who have given so much and who are living out their dreams. I love the Olympics!

Along with knowing we have to fight to get this opportunity back for Softball in the future. For all the little ones who have The Olympic Dream.

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Victory & Heartache! Super Bowl Recap

2010-02-09T07:08:00.000-08:00

Watching the Superbowl my heart was elated for the Saints and Drew Brees but on the other hand I was aching for the Colts and Peyton Manning. I know the feeling before that Gold Medal game, or the Nat'l Championship game. You know there is going to be a winner and a loser in just a few hours. You know you will either walk back into your hotel room as a Champion or not. Its the feeling you train for, the place you want to be, you dream about being there your entire life!

It brought me back to my last 2 years of being a Wildcat. In 2001 (my junior year) we did it, finally! We sent 8 seniors out with a Championship, a ring, we achieved it! We were finally the ones jumping up and down on the field lifting the trophy high! This was a magical year, we were on a mission, we had an AMAZING team! I was undefeated this year on the mound... I can remember fighting the devil telling me in my ear, don't let this final game be your only & first loss of the year/season. I fought that the entire time trying to ignore those negative thoughts! I tried focusing on each pitch, each task, and most importantly battling for my team! We did it! We finally won! It was awesome we were playing UCLA, our biggest rival, our biggest competition back then. And we pulled it off 1-0! Finally the Champions!

Then came the next year 2002 (my senior year), we lost 8 seniors from 2001, I knew it was going to be a challenge getting back there let alone winning again! But we did it, we made it back, we were in the Championship game the following year. Just getting to that final game wasn't enough, we wanted to finish it, win it! Coach Candrea always says, "its tough to win a National Championship and even tougher to repeat!" But We were going to do it, we could it, I wanted nothing more than to prove that statement wrong! This time it ended the complete opposite way, we fell short, way short. Ouch, it hurt, hurt really bad. This isn't the way I wanted to end my career as a Wildcat. The score was brutal, my last game as a Wildcat was ugly. I was devastated and heartbroken. I can remember fighting the tears and losing the battle of holding them in.

After sitting in the dug out for what seemed like 2 hours, I finally gathered my stuff and made my way off the field. I was walking off of the Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City as a Wildcat for the last time and we/I fell short. The Lord used this time to speak to me and speak to me clearly. I didn't make it too far, I was immediately stopped at the gate. I couldn't even get out. All I wanted was my hotel room and bed so badly, to sit and sulk by myself. I then looked up and there was this enormous line wrapped around the stadium, no end in sight. The security guards asked me if I wanted to sign autographs. I replied, "Not really, but how can I say no to this line?" He said, "It's up to you?" I knew in my heart I had to sign, it was the right thing to do.

I dropped my bag and stayed there til the last girl received a signature. Through tears, I signed, I was there for hours... I was floored. I kept thinking we lost, I was the loser. Why are these people wanting my autograph? Through so many hugs and generous people encouraging me that day. It was such a gift! A gift from the Lord. He reminded me its not about winning or losing, its about touching lives, touching others! I received more mail from that day than our perfect season, Nat'l Champs, going 32-0, the previous year. So many sweet thoughtful letters about the way I handled the loss, thanking me for staying and signing. I was in awe and still am thinking about it today.

The Lord taught me a big lesson that day! It doesn't make the pain of a loss go away but He reminded me of my purpose. Its not about the trophies or medals, its about touching others, living out God's will! Trying to be a Champion even when we are not the Champ. Through Christ we are all Champions, Jesus died for our sins & our losses, we are able to gain the gift of eternity through His grace! We are fighting for the true prize, the nonperishable prize, the prize of eternity! As my Gold medal tarnishes and gets scratched, I cringe. I cringe and then chuckle... its the Lord reminding me yet again, there is more to it! The trophies & medals will one day fade away.

When I go back to Oklahoma City, it never fails, that line is brought up by someone. The longest line they had ever seen for "the loser!" Thank you Lord for using the losses & heartaches to help mold me and shape me. And Lord, just FYI I prefer winning! ;)

Dreaming & Believing,
#27

New York, New York!

2010-01-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I hit the road for the first time in 2 weeks. It was a great break and lovely to spend quality time as a family! Our "Ace" time was much needed and full of fun! Casey is training hard getting ready for Spring Training. We are excited for him and looking forward to Spring Training with the Astros. Ace is well just being our "Ace"! Loving every minute, always exploring and learning.

I headed out to the east coast and attended the Mohegan Sun Coaches Convention in Conn. Its a beautiful casino/mall and we had an incredible turn out for softball! I hung at the Mizuno, ProMounds, & DiamondNation booths for a bit and then had an hour session on "Mental Toughness & more!" I had a blast, thanks to all who attended!

From there I headed over to Hyde Park, New York. I had the opportunity and honor of dining at the Culinary Institute of America. What a treat!!! I fully devoured and enjoyed my four course meal. I didn't eat all day, anxiously awaiting this night! I had Crab Cakes, Goat Cheese Salad, Seared Hake & Mussels, topped with a melt in your mouth warm chocolate cake with pistachio ice cream! WOW! Yes, I left in pain but it was SO worth every bit! I had the pleasure of staying at the oldest Inn in the US. It was beautiful & historic. George Washington even stayed there... papers framed on the wall to prove it! I woke up to a fresh white snowfall and headed over to FDR High School for a little clinic. It was fun getting back to a high school gym! There is something about that gym smell, as horrific as it can be sometimes I love it! Full of so many great memories! We had some fun talking pitching & hitting, and of course a little on life lessons.
Thank you FDR High for your generous hospitality!

I headed into the city after, from the historic Inn to the W in Time Square! Gotta love it! Enjoyed my night full of bright lights, had a few meetings in the morning, visited MTV, and headed back to reunite as Aces! :)

I landed to a house full of "pants on the ground" and tissues everywhere you turn! This is what happens when my Aces have the house to themselves! Off to finish the fourth load of laundry and to a scavenger hunt for tissues, used glasses, & wrappers around the house! Ace is now requesting bacon... I wouldn't have it any other way!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Its the LITTLE Things!

2010-01-20T21:55:00.000-08:00

I love it! Here I am in the kitchen at midnight tearing into a bag of Cheez Its while my husband is now opening the pantry ripping into the Frosted Flakes! This is what I hoped for in life & marriage! It doesn't mean I don't get an evil eye every once in awhile when I bust into snacks late night, but still I love it! And it just so happens tonight he is joining me which is rare so it made my night.

I believe marriage is all about the little things... I feel it's the same with life. The little things that lift us up, the moments in between the grand events, celebration, gifts, and etc. If the little things are good, the big will be even better.

We have been married 5 years... Crazy! Unreal! Time is flying by warp speed. Its even more crazy to think Ace is about to be 4! My goal is to continue to make the little things in my/our life good, the day to day, the minute by minute. Enjoying the little things. When Ace grabs my face and kisses me on the cheek out of now where... that is what I am talking about. Oh, how it melts every piece of my heart. When Casey kisses me good bye every morning or the instant hug Iget when he walks into the house. Its the little things that have made these last 5 years so incredible!

I know I am about to throw Casey under the bus a little right now but he has given me the moon and back for gifts! He helps prove or does prove my point about the little things theory! Seriously, he has given more than I could ask for, know of, or even want! For our 5 year anniversary a few days ago he got the me the sweetest card (which meant the world to me, he is the best with thoughtful cards, again the little things!) and a People Magazine. I looked at him and grinned. We had just completed our 5 star, 5 course anniversary meal, it was amazing Now, I am searching for the answer about the People Magazine. (We weren't supposed to get each other gifts, just a night out to celebrate). With his dimpled cheeks looking right back at mine he started to explain. "For our '5' year anniversary the gift is wood. There wasn't anything wood that I could think of that you "wood" (get it) want so I knew I would be safe with a People Magazine!" I died of laughter and was overflowing with joy! So clever and so hilarious and cute all at the same time! I responded immediately elated, "I love it!" I truly did and do! After 5 years he has found the way to my heart!!! Usually, I get nervous for gifts from him because he really would/does get me the world and I never know with what he will show up with. Let me tell you I am still smiling ear to ear thinking about my People Mag! He gets it, he knows how to get to my heart and he did on our 5 year anniversary and he does get their daily. I am so grateful and blessed! An unforgettable anniversary, no doubt!

People, let me tell you... Brilliant! Its the little things, People!

Enjoy the LITTLE things!
#27

USA Tryouts 2010

2010-01-10T10:55:00.000-08:00

We just got back from USA Tryouts... always great in a way to get them over with. Its always nerve racking no matter how many times we've been through it. It was great to get back out on the field with the girls. It's always fun catching up with everyone and hanging out in the down time. I roomed with Tasha, Cat, and Lappin, good times!

We did testing the first day along with some drill work. We had to run the bases for time and do the beep test. This is what we all look forward to getting through and done with... the conditioning testing. We are always filled with anxiety and nerves before our running testing. We all survived and put up some pretty good numbers especially after the holidays! :)

We split up in teams and played games the rest of the week. It was as though it was one of my first tryouts... the butterflies were there. Good butterflies, the butterflies you love and train for! It felt so good to get back out on the field! My love of competing and the game still continues to grow. I don't know how but it does, growing more and more. Driving down to the training center I was filled with so many memories. The position our sport is in the with Olympics and all, this could be the last time we are able to train at the Olympic Training Center. It is such a beautiful place and an incredible training facility. We have known to love the staff there and we know it as our home. We started out having to drive to fields then was so blessed with our own field being built on site... its immaculate!

I tried to leave the emotions at the gate and just enjoy the week. I did, but still the emotions were there. So many years, weeks, days, tryouts, workouts, conditioning, hours in the dining hall, nights, meetings, relationships made... so blessed we are/I was/I am to be able to have these special memories! Going back to when they posted the team on a door (the worst walk ever, walking to see if your name is on the list). Now they send out an email a couple days after, thank God! So many great times with my teammates and Coaches.

Going at it, as each time I'm on the field, knowing it could be my last as I get older. Soaking it up, each precious moment!

We find out tomorrow if we make the team, I'll let you know.

Thank you to all the players, staff, Coaches, so many people who have made my career and life so enriched! I am forever grateful and so very appreciative!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Lifting eachother up!

2009-12-30T06:19:00.000-08:00

I was watching Joyce Meyers the other night on TV and she totally spoke to my heart. She was talking about how we all have flaws and/or annoying bad habits. If we constantly are thinking about the negative in one another and we nag each other about it, how will we as people ever overcome our flaws. She challenged her audience/myself to build each other up from the positives we each possess! Find the good in one another, let's encourage and give each other the confidence to overcome our flaws. If we constantly are bringing each other down our world will only become darker. The belief in ourselves and in one another will allow us all to shine in our own individual way. Amen to this.

We as a society are always taking one another down, by hurtful words and even actions. If we constantly are focusing on the negative and the worst in one another our hearts will become hardened. And besides this only makes both parties more annoyed and/or bugged. This world is rough enough, we need to lift each other up and focus on the good we all possess. Letting our light shine and others! This is my prayer for my life and our world, lets build one another up and shine!

This was one of the hardest things about growing up, realizing everyone does have flaws. I can relate this to relationships too, the first few dates are always the best. Perfect! Then slowly our flaws are are brought to the surface. Even with marriage, if we are constantly thinking about the negatives in our spouse, this will dominate and take our marriage/life over. It's a choice we make daily, sometimes hourly. Are we going to see the good or the bad in one another? Let's shine together!

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29).

Dream & Believe,
#27

Wishing all a very blessed Christmas & an incredible 2010

2009-12-28T14:08:00.001-08:00

This is what I am grateful for most this holiday season, My Adorable Ace's! This holiday has come so fast and is passing even quicker. I am filled with unexplainable gratitude and indescribable appreciation! I hope you all grab onto what you love, enjoy, and what means the most to you this holiday and continue to do so everyday! Wishing you all an incredible holiday season filled with laughter and love!

This is my fav smile from Ace during our fam photo shoot! Thanks to my bro Landon @ FinchFotography. This is my hope and daily prayer, to be filled with that over flow of joy, hope, and love that Aces smile exemplifies!

Another fun shot of Ace and I! Motherhood... Its the absolute best! Best, Best, Best!

I am so blessed with an amazing husband, who is so incredibly supportive and filled with love. I am so forever grateful...

We've had an incredibly warm and fuzzy Christmas, celebrating Jesus' birthday! I am so grateful for the time we had with our families. Moments and memories that will stick with us forever.

Wishing you all the warm fuzzy's! That overflowing joy, hope in Him, lots of hot cocoa & every dessert you can get your hands on! Let's keep the Christmas spirit alive throughout the entire year!

Lots O' Love, to You & Yours!

The Daigles

Rochester, MN!

2009-12-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

We had a blast at our last JF Softball Camp of 2009! Many thanks to the Rochester Amateur Sports Association for hosting us and RCTC Softball for assisting us! We had a great group of Coaches helping, my dad Doug, Nicole Trimboli, Stacy May, Toni Mascarenas, Laura Berg, Natasha Watley, and Mackenzie Vandergeest, our Dream Team!

Its been a full year of camps and I am so grateful to all our hosts, our families, friends, Colleges, Sponsors and staff that have made my dream a reality. Bringing softball and dreams to many all over the country and world! Thank you to all!!! Parents of campers and campers, Thank You! In 2009 we had over 3,500 campers, over 15,000 spectators, and were able to bring it to 9 cities! Amazing!

We hope to post the 2010 schedule in January on my website. Hope to see you at camp!

Here are some pictures from the weekend!

Mac talking hitting!

Toni, working on/demonstrating infield & footwork!

Bergy convincing the girls "Outfielder's Rule!"

My dad & I talking pitching!

Mac who is a firefighter with LA City(living her dream! Dream & Believe Baby!), begged us to stop by the Rochester Fire Station! We had some fun, the guys there were so sweet! It was like college again, Mac begging us to stop by a station in every city! :)

Toni twisted Casey's arm to go along with the girls and Ace, of course! Thanks Toni, I couldn't of got him there. We had fun!

Can you tell I'm a knock off? Posing with Mac aka the real deal! She thought it would be fun to dress me up! One tall firefighter chick I would make! :)

We always seem to find fun!!! I am so grateful for my girls! Thanks for all the memories and fun in 2009! Looking forward to an incredible 2010 with you all!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

JF Softball Academy Extravaganza!

2009-12-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

We had a great weekend in Flemington, New Jersey at Our first Annual Extravaganza! Leah Amico, Andrea Duran, my dad, and all the JF Softball Academy Staff had an awesome time sharing the game with Coaches on Saturday and then the Players on Sunday. We were even able to witness the snow falling!

For the Coaches Clinic we were able to show them what we were talking about. The Coaches were able to see us perform live rather than just talking through our topics! We had the Finch's Ace's there to help assist too. We were able to run them through drills and work with them which added a great dynamic to the Clinic. Its always fun sharing the game with others. I personally enjoy listening to the presenters and learning from them. Its always great to pick up different phrases or cue words!

The players clinic went great, we had a huge turnout! Lots of exciting softballers... even while it was snowing outside! I am really stoked about all of the great stuff going on at Diamond Nation, and the Academy! The staff work so incredibly hard on a daily bases, enabling and inspiring young girls to love the game! Along with bringing them the best, quality instruction! I am so grateful to all the staff for all the time, effort, passion, and dedication they have to Diamond Nation and the Academy! Thank YOU!

On a personal level, it was fun hanging out with the girls and my dad! Leah Amico has been such an inspiration to me and its been awhile since I have got to hang out with her! First and foremost, she loves Jesus and she lives it!!! Second, she is fun! Third, she paved the way and proved that you can be a wife & mama and still play USA Softball. I have looked up to her since her Wildcat days and I was blessed to be able to share the field with her for her last Olympics in 2004! Oh, yea and she has 3 gold medals! :) I am so grateful for having her to look up to and admire! She is a shining light, a beautiful one! Now a mom of 3 handsome boys, and she has an adorable husband too! Dre, you know I love you too!!! Mad love!!! :) Thanks girls and pops for all the fun!

Dreaming & Believing
#27

West Coast Swing

2009-12-03T21:29:00.000-08:00

Yea, its been a while. We've been enjoying family & friends with such grateful hearts. Here are a few pics from the last couple of weeks. I hope you and yours had a very blessed Thanksgiving filled with lots of love & gratitude.

So much to be thankful for! So much, I don't even know where to begin... I will try.
Faith, Family, Freedom, Friends, .... on and on. We are excited for Casey too as he signed back
with the Astros. We are looking forward to another great season and what the future holds!

We were so stoked to be able to get tons of family time in along with some girl time in Southern California!

We've had a fun few weeks and pics to prove it...

My girls! Going back to Elementary Bri, we all go way back! So very blessed! Mel and Tawn, we missed you!

My USA girls! We had a fun picnic in the park, kids in toe! We had a blast, its never long enough! Fun to catch up even if it was for a quick minute! A talented bunch and a lovely bunch! Thanks for the fun! JT, me, Berg, Leah, Tash, T, Lis & Antonio.

Disney was on the list! We had so much fun! It was crazy but we had a blast. My parents came along too! We all were able to experience Disneyland with Casey & Ace for their first time.

Yes, they were able to scoop up and get a first time button! Say Cheese!

My Ace's feeling good about themselves on the cars. They think they won! Rubbing it in with #1's all around!

We left So Cal all warm and fuzzy! So much fun! Thanks for all the fuzzies, friends & family!

Headed up to Diamond Nation, New Jersey tomorrow. Coaches Clinic & Players Clinic this weekend, looking forward to it!

Wishing you lots of love, big dreams, and tons of belief!
#27

Binghamton, NY

2009-11-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

We had a Fantastic Fun weekend in Binghamton, NY! We had our 2nd to last camp of the year... it makes me a bit sad thinking about it. We had 400 awesome campers and their families. We packed the dome! It was such a wonderful environment, we had tons of fun! Its always great coming up to the Northeast, seeing the excitement for fastpitch. I am so grateful to all who came and participated! Thank you to Lou Bishop for having us up here. We look forward to coming back next year! Here are some shots from the the festivities!

This crew below is the unit! They make it happen! Family & friends... well they are all family! Well, minus the chef! ;) They are the ones who sacrifice so much, they have allowed me to make my dream of running my own camps a reality. Let me tell you, they are beyond selfless, so giving, so loving, so of so much. They are always there to do this, they are the foundation and the glue to the JF Softball Camps. We are so forever grateful and forever in debt to this crew! Thank You and We love you!
(I know its a lil' corny being in a Japanese Steak House but its the only shot I have of everyone!)

These are my girls! You know those girls who know you inside out! Those girls who you can always count on! Those girls who tell you what you need to hear not just what you want! They are way more than teammates they are best friends! These girls are above and beyond, I love them like sisters! My besties!!! They give me the warm fuzzies! XOXO

I love this shot! My dad and I talking shop at the pitching station! I'm so blessed to have him come work my camps! He is my backbone! I would not be where I am today without him. He is my confidence when mine is gone. He tells me what is right, not easy, but right. A man of integrity, a man of knowledge, he has impacted my life beyond words. He continues to amaze me everyday! I love you dad!

Bergie! What can I say, she is Bergie! One of the best people I have ever met! I love her, admire her, am in awe of her, am so grateful for her and her friendship! And she just so happens to be the most blinged out softball player of all time for Team USA, 4xOlympian!

Mac Attack-52 hitting bombs in the dome! That's what I call her! She is incredible! Inside and out! So caring, so funny, so lovable, so giving, so sharing, I LOVE her! She is one big heart (52) one big muscle!

Another shot of camp! Good times!

Thank you, Binghamton, NY!
Keep Dreaming & Believing! Til' next time!
#27

Fighting the Funk!

2009-11-09T14:31:00.000-08:00

Well after a couple of months of little physical activity, its time! My belly is where I gain my
weight first and well its a little more than it was or a little looser. Never a good thing. After a chocolate malt today, I knew it was time! Time to start it up and start getting after it!

Enough excuses... My mind has been telling me I don't play again til June, I needed a break. But I have to fight the funk! Fight the excuses. I know I am a happier and healthier woman when I work out. Its a sense of accomplishment, pride, empowerment, strength, and so much more.

Its always the first couple of days that hurt the worst and are the hardest to get going. My body however is in desperate need of physical activity. I find myself slowly slipping, slipping into this lazy funk mode. Especially as the holidays approach. I have baked way too many batches of cookies and brownies in the last 2 months. The holidays do this to me every time. Oh, how I love this time of year! Family, Friends, & Food! I made the decision, today is the day to start the journey. Its always the journey you remember, the victories are great but its all about the journey.

I ran about a mile in between some circuit work outs. 2 sets of 12 Step Ups, Walking Lunges, Quick Jumps, One Legged Squats, and some Straight Leg Deads. Not a bad start for day 1, I know its a little weak but I'll come around! You have to start somewhere, whether its half a mile or around the block! In between sets I would hit a bucket of balls right handed off the tee and then a bucket left handed. It felt good and I couldn't help but smile the whole time hitting balls!

Tomorrow I am going to be in pain but I feel better today, physically and mentally. Getting out and fighting the funk! I want to encourage those out there who are in need of a little kick or pat to get it going! We all know how great we feel after! Its just making time and doing it! Get after it! Fight the Funk!

Believing!
#27

My Golden Girls

2009-11-04T06:33:00.000-08:00

I was sitting in the Doctors Office yesterday and was joined by 4 Golden Girls! They were chatting about their families, cancer, life, and getting old. I was tickled overhearing their sweet conversation about getting old!

Here are a few quotes from the Golden Girls.

"I don't know why they call these years the golden years, there is nothing golden about it." Another replied, "It's only golden for the Doctors, that's about it!"

One said, "My mother told me getting old is Not for Sissy's, and boy was she ever right."

Another, "If I would've known getting old was going to feel like this, I would've tried harder to stay young, that's for sure."

One said, "I'm shooting for 90," she was 73. Another replied, "Oh honey, good luck with that, you have a long ways to go! I am shooting for 2 more years and I will be the oldest to ever live in my family!"

It was such a cute conversation that I thoroughly enjoyed! If I make to my golden years I hope to have a golden sense of humor to go with it like these adorable beautiful Golden Ladies.

I had a golden week last week, spending it in the mid west with my Golden Grandmothers! They sparkle and shine of pure Gold. I feel so blessed to know them, have them, and spend time with them. I treasure every minute!

Here is a photo with them from Floyd Valley Hospital's 7th Annual Pink Ribbon Night! We had a great time raising money and awareness for the Fight against Breast Cancer. Thank you to everyone that joined us and support this great cause. I can not express my gratitude to all my family and friends in the mid west!

My mom's mother, Grandma Ada to my left and my dad's mother, Grandma Lois to my right.
They define beauty & grace!

Believing in the "Gold" of the Golden years!
#27

Fear vs Faith

2009-11-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

In a world of so much negativity, Fear surrounds us. It's everywhere. Looking into my child's eyes, fear can over take me in a second. I am in constant battle of fear whether it is as a mother, as a wife, a daughter, on the mound, before a speech, every day its a battle.

In the Bible it says "Fear Not" thousands and thousands of times! This is my hope and prayer, Fear NOT! I want my Faith to overcome Fear. Its NOT easy, you turn on the news, you look outside, our world is filled with things to fear.

Through out my career I have had to face many fears. Fear of losing, fear of striking out, fear of hitting batters when I was young, fear of bases loaded, fear of leaving home, fear of getting hit, fear of letting our Country down on the Olympic stage. Fear CAN and WILL over come you IF YOU LET IT. We have to FIGHT OUR FEARS! We have to fill ourselves with POSITIVE thoughts, with FAITH!

It comes to a time where we have to release our fears or we will never do what God has in store for us. Think of how many talents, dreams, goals, businesses, gifts, jobs, relationships and so much more go to the grave with people. Go after your dreams, go after what God is putting on your heart, its an opportunity, Go For IT! One little step, one domino pushed over leads to hundreds and possibly even thousands of dominoes falling over, falling down! Its taking that first step, getting the first domino to tip, lean, and fall which leads to so much more. More than we could possibly even imagine or dream of! Push it OVER, Make it FALL! Go FOR IT!!! One step, one foot in front of the other, step in Faith!

My challenge and prayer is that we break ourselves of this fearful mindset, get rid of our excuses, and live by FAITH! May we look at our fears and pressure as God-given opportunities. If God is for us, who can be against us!

Dreaming & Believing in Faith!
#27

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a Safe and Very Happy Halloween!!!

Love, Scooby Doo & The Gang

On the East Coast, although rooting West Coast! Go Dodgers, Go Angels!

2009-10-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

Last week was a tough one for me. It was the longest I've been away from Casey and Ace in a while, since our USA Softball Japan trip. Ouch, it felt like 3 weeks.

Although it was tough personally it was full of lots of good stuff! Last week I headed out to Baltimore for an appearance for Dermabond. It was at the Annual Nurses Convention, I was there to promote kids safety. It was a lot of fun meeting people from all over the US.

From there I headed to Flemington, New Jersey to Diamond Nation. What an incredible weekend! We had our first Finch's Ace's Tournament, with over 30 teams there to compete. Diamond Nation looks absolutely fabulous. "Big League" is the perfect explanation! Amazing. I never growing up and still rarely get to play on fields like these fields. First class! Even the concession stand, well... yea we have a Chef! Unreal. I was eating Buffalo Chicken burgers and sweet potato pie, yummy! Dangerous, yummy! And the JF Softball Academy is quite the place! The highlight for me was meeting our 14 under travel team, Finch's Ace's! These girls represented! They had such great attitudes and are a really fun bunch of girls! The Coaching Staff has done such a great job with them. I was so impressed! I'm not going to lie, a bit giddy! Pretty stinkin' cool to have our own travel team! I even coached a little first base, it got my juices flowing! We can't wait to expand over at DN! Such great stuff going on over there in Jersey, so proud to be a part! Thank you to the sponsors who have made it all happen! Big props to my girls, the Ace's for getting 3rd place in their first tournament! Way to go!

Check out these Ace's! Here they are! Finch's Aces!

The Ace's Staff, full of Ace's! My girls Kathy & Ami! They have done such a incredible job at the JF Softball Academy, Ace's, and so so so much more!

With Jack Cust Jr. and Jack Cust Sr. I am so grateful for their partnership. Jack Cust has had his Academy for 10 years now, they have done such a phenomenal job helping advance baseball in the East Coast. I am blessed to have partnered with them for Diamond Nation and the JF Softball Academy.

We are having a Coaches Clinic Dec 5th and Players Clinic on Dec 6th at Diamond Nation. Check it out at DiamondNationConvention.com Leah Amico, Andrea Duran, and my dad Doug Finch will be joining us at the Convention! Hope to see you there!

From Jersey, headed into NY City for a productive, busy couple of days, which ended with a bang at the Women's Sports Foundation Dinner. Taped some footage for We Play, met with MLB.com for MLB Pulse, visited Audemars Piguet... beyond fun!

The WSF Dinner, what a night! It is always so inspiring and an incredible honor to attend. My highlights were walking the red carpet with Annika Sorenstam, saying hello to Pat Summit, visiting with Billy Jean King, dining with the lovely ladies of ESPN, catching up with all the athletes, meeting my girl Emily, and so much more! You always leave fired up knowing there is always more we can be doing! Thank You Billy Jean King and the WSF for all you've done and continue to do!

From NYC, headed out to Kentucky to attend the Dudley Annual Sales Meeting. I was able to meet all the dealers and reps. I have enjoyed being part of the Dudley team and look forward to some great things in this partnership ahead. They have been awesome to work with, its been fun testing out all sorts of softballs, seams, covers, and etc.

Now well... Reunited and it feels so good! So good to hear mommy nonstop, loving it! Ace gets so happy to have his mom and dad in one place... can't blame him! I better get back to boys!

Little Rock, Arkansas here we come this weekend. Camp #4 for the Fall! Let the good times roll! Can't wait to see my girls/Coaches, the Battin' Babes, and all the campers this weekend! Spots still available, come and join us!

Stay tuned for the revealing of Ace's Halloween Costume!

Go BLUE! Go DODGERS!!!

Continue dreaming & believing!
#27

Off Season!

2009-10-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying our off season to the fullest! Loving our time as a family! This is the time that we regroup and recover from our wild crazy in season schedules! We are having a ball, and not on the ball field, or at the ball park. Just hanging out enjoying life. We are so incredibly blessed to have this time together. Here are some great pics that are better than words to let you know what we've been doing.

Ace & Daddy petting "Fix It, Blondie," at the race track!

Family pic at the Circus! Oh my gosh, Ace had a ball! Okay... me too!

Ace & Casey fishing... its scary to admit but Ace has it in his blood!

Our lil' stunt man, four wheeling away!

Casey & Ace's biggest catch so far of the off season!

We have been mixing in a few JF Camps too! We are half way done for the fall and winter. We've hit Sioux Falls, Virginia, and Sacramento. What a blast we've had at each stop! Thank you to all the many have made it such a great environment and experience! Here are some pics from the camps!

Andrea Duran, Laura Berg, Me, Mac Vandergeest, and Toni Mascarenas! My go to girls! They are the best! We've had such a blast! I am SO lucky and blessed to have them help out with camps! This is in Virginia at a BBQ place. Yes, that's a wild boar in the center!

Sam Bannister, Toni, me, Casey (yes, he actually went to camp, he made my weekend!), Jenae Leles, Alicia Hollowell, and Mac. This was the Coaches for Sacramento Camp plus Vicky Galindo. A great group and we had fun even with the heat of 104!

The girls again in Sac! Check out our new mesh shorts in the pic! Cute and comfy!

Our last 3 camps of the year are filling up quick, make sure to get registered asap!
October 24-25 Little Rock, AR
November 14-15 Binghamton, NY
December 12-13 Rochester, MN
register at www.jenniefinch.com

In between camps, Ive been traveling a little bit. It hasn't seem to slow down too much, which is a good thing! Its not always easy leaving, well never easy, but I've had some incredible opportunities.

Visited with Mizuno, in Georgia. Had some great meetings going over products, checking out whats coming up next. I feel so blessed to be able to be a part of the Mizuno brand & family. Its great to talk product, give feedback, see new designs, pick colors, and see what new technologies they have come up with. Lots of exciting stuff and I'm excited and grateful to continue my relationship with Mizuno.

Headed out to Bristol, Conn to the ESPN campus. It is huge, its always fun to visit and be on campus. You never know who you are going to run into Larry King was there the same day we were! Even had the chance to pitch to host Jay Crawford from First Take. We had a good time.
I was there to encourage people, players, Coaches, teams to join WePlay.com. Its a safe, great way for teams and players to have a home on the web. Check it out and join! I brought a camera with me during the ESPN shoot from a couple weeks ago and posted pics to @Weplay: http://tinyurl.com/yccdlsp.

I headed up north for another trip to NY, for a satellite media tour. Announcing my title of Commissioner of the Mexican Avocado League. Here is a shot from the set, I felt like Rachel Ray. Check it out along with many great recipes at www.theAmazingAvocado.com

Looking forward to more fun with the family! I will be heading back to NJ & NY in a few days!
Heading out to DiamondNation for a JF Tournament this weekend, can't wait! The Women's Sports Foundation Dinner & Gala is next Tuesday night, always one of my favorite events of the year! Hope to see you there!

Dreaming, Believing & Enjoying!
#27

Virginia Camp

2009-09-18T09:14:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! What a blast we had in Virginia for camp! We had such an amazing turnout! More than 2,000 people were there to share in the festive camp experience! Moments like these prove to me our sport has a bright future! No matter what vote, Olympics or no Olympics!

We had over 2,000 people and over 400 campers eager and excited to learn about this game and about the game of life! Its about having dreams and believing in those dreams! Part of my continuing playing is for these young girls. I still want them to know that just because we are not in the Olympics there still is that dream of wearing USA!

Weekends like this are so overwhelming! Amazing! I love this game and I love the bright future of it! Thanks for another incredible camp!

Heading out to Atlanta to meet with Mizuno, then NY for WePlay!

Next camp will be in Sacramento, California Sept 26 & 27! Spots are still available, its our only stop on the west! Looking forward to it!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Tasting the Off Season!

2009-09-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

I can taste it and oh how sweet it is already! Even sweeter than my birthday cake last night! Casey finishes up Monday... its been a long one, but a blessed one!

We had our first camp to kick off the fall in South Dakota. We had such a blast! Thanks to all the many people who helped to put on a fun weekend! Register on my website for a camp near you!

I am headed to Broxton, Mass this weekend. Going out to announce my partnership with On Deck Sports! Excited about my signature line of pitching mats and the partnership with such an innovative company, Ondecksports.com

Looking forward to meeting many softball players and people out there at the Rox game on Saturday night! Another first pitch too, should I go under or over hand? Let me know!

Next weekend we are headed to Virginia for Camp #2, and its sold out! Looking forward to another exciting weekend of camp!

My roots are in the mid west, so Ace and I decided to stay and visit with my Grandma's and his Great Grandma's! Its amazing to even say Great-Grandmas! It brought tears of joy to my eyes numerous times. We are so blessed to have 2 incredible, beautiful grandmothers to share so many treasured memories with! Its always so hard to say goodbye! Here are some pictures from the wonderful few days!

I celebrated the big 2-9 yesterday! Time is just flying by! It was lovely to be able to celebrate with my grandmothers and then the Daigles that evening in Texas! Here is a shot of Ace and I after a long day of travel! And thanks to my sis in law, all 29 candles!

Thanks for all the many sweet, generous, and thoughtful birthday wishes! We are so very blessed! We thank the Lord for each and every day as it is a gift, the present!

Can't wait to see Casey even if its for a few minutes before taking off again! :)

Dreaming & Believing! Off season here we come!
#27

Bandits Big Win Secures 1st in NPF League Play!

2009-08-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight was a great night for the Bandits! We clinched 1st place in the league beating Thunder 1-0! Stacy May hit a blast in the 1st inning for our lone run, which was enough for the win! Thorson was lights out on the mound for us tonight! She was solid all the way through, what a night she had! I made it in for the last 2 outs for the save. I want to wish my teammates a big CONGRATS! They have worked so hard all season! Go Bandits!

We have 1 more game against Thunder tomorrow at 3pm to finish the 2009 NPF League Play. We then head over to Akron for the playoffs that begin on Thursday! Check out how you can join in the great softball and fun at www.profastpitch.com

We look forward to competing hard against the best in our sport!

Ace and I snuck out to the city this morning with some dear friends for a picnic in Lincoln Park! We had so much fun, it was such a beautiful day! We were in awe watching the Air Show and even took a quick stroll through the Lincoln Park Zoo! We are loving the Chicago Summer!

Ace is having a blast with our Bandit Family! So much fun, there is lots of kids around and he is enjoying every second of it! Everyone is so sweet to him! He can not wait for the bus ride with his girls! Oh, how he loves the team bus, it gets him fired up! We are so grateful for the many great relationships we have through this great game!

1 more week of season for us starting tomorrow. This summer has flown by! We are rooting Casey on from afar! He is having a great year and we are so proud of him! We look forward to being with him full time when season ends. You can follow him at www.roundrockexpress.com It will be great to have some family time together the rest of his season and the off season!

Our Softball Camps are filling up fast! Very exciting and fun! I look forward to meeting all the eager campers! Our first is in 2 weeks in Sioux Falls, South Dakota! You can register on my camp page on my website www.JennieFinch.com We look forward to seeing you all there and can't wait to share our game with you!

Looking forward to next week and all that it has in store for us Bandits!

PS We need some Bandit fans over there in Akron!!! Hint Hint! :)

Believing!
#27

2009-08-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

International Olympic Committee will not reinstate softball for the 2016 Olympic Games

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Softball will not be included in the programme for the 2016 Olympic Games as the 15 members of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Executive Board decided Thursday at a meeting in Berlin. One of the seven sports in contention for the 2016 Games, softball was passed over in favor of golf and rugby as the list of possible additions was narrowed down to a final two candidates.

As you can see from above, it was a sad day for softball globally.

I was so saddened and disheartened by the announcement today by the IOC. So many have worked so hard playing, coaching, supporting, this great game of softball to get it where it is today. I, in my short time of 25 years playing this game have seen and experienced it transcend, transcend beyond imagination. Thanks to the many before us, past,present, and future. The opportunities, growing, expanding, becoming... finally. It is played in over 130 countries. We have never had a positive drug test in our sport. We send our best players. I could go on and on. In 2008, having Venezuela qualify for its first Olympic games in our sport is proof that we are growing. Japan getting its first Olympic Gold in our sport. It's Botswana qualifying for World Championships, these opportunities. What an amazing accomplishment for them all! Regarding Olympics, now we will not ever know Who would be there in 2012? Take Gold? 2016?

Luckily here in the US we are blessed! We are blessed with the incredible NCAA as a goal, a hope to achieve along with getting your education. We are so very very lucky! We have the NPF and PFX pro leagues to look forward to, to hope for. There will still be USA softball.

My heart is deeply saddened for the many countries who will not have this funding and the many opportunities that we have. Honestly, it will be tough to continue the growth globally that we have had with our sport without the funding and it not being an Olympic Sport. This makes my heart ache.

People asked me today if I would've played in 2016? I can't even begin to think about me in this situation. I've had the chance! Its the girls who didn't get the chance, the future! The millions of girls who play this sport world wide. Its the girls in Venezuela and Botswana that is who my heart aches for. As a female athlete and ambassador, your goal/hope is to create more for the future. It's to leave the game and know that you have seen it grow and now it is better because of your era. This makes me feel as though we let the future of our sport down. Opportunities now are not what they were, we today took a step backwards as a sport. For this, I am deeply hurt and sad!

Yet there is the future, there is those millions of girls out there... We will continue to fight the fight! I, being married to a MLB player especially realize how far we have to go, a long long ways. Ace at 3 years old has noticed it, "Mommy wheres your clubhouse?" Yes, I have seen how far we have come but today again I am reminded how far we still have to go!

There still will be a USA softball, so girls can still have the dream of wearing red, white, and blue! No, it won't be in the Olympics but it still will be the chance to compete for your great country. This is what we have to build upon. Our sport is too great not to prevail. We have to move on, continue to create opportunity for women in our sport all over the world! We look forward to hosting World Championships next year on our soil in Oklahoma City, next July! This is the event of the world, now "our" Olympics. As softball fans and players all we can do is play it and support it. Continue to prove to our world what a great sport we all know it is.

Young girls out there we pledge to do our best, give it everything we have! Our goal is for more, more opportunity for you than what we had/have! This being said next week there will be some incredible softball being played in Akron, Ohio. The NPF finals! For those of you who do not know, YES we have a pro league! The National Pro Fastpitch! Come out, support, be uplifted by watching some of the worlds best compete! We open up Thursday and finals are til Sunday finishing with a 1 Champion! I look forward to seeing you there!

Dreaming & Always Always Believing!!!!

#27

Back to the Bandits!

2009-08-08T00:51:00.001-07:00

What a week! Back from Japan Monday, OKC Tuesday, Round Rock Wednesday, Shrevport Thursday, and now back with the Bandits for the weekend!

What a game tonight... it was a battle. A type of win you don't ideally like but a win is a Win!

We pulled it out 5-4 against Akron. It is great being back and catching up with my teammates. They have been having an awesome season! I have to brag on them, 1st in the league as of now! We have 2 more games against Akron, then a 5 game series against Rockford, and the playoffs in Akron to finish up the season. To follow or attend check out www.profastpitch.com
Looking forward to a action packed couple of weeks. Its good to put back on the pants(I love wearing pants to play, they are so sharp) and orange & black!

We had a blast reuniting as a family spending a short (very short) couple of days together! Ace is so sweet! Its such a blast being together all 3 of us! We enjoyed getting to watch some of Casey's games. He was the Astros Organization's Pitcher of the month this month! We are so very proud of him and all his hard work. He is having a great season and its so fun being there watching him pitch. Ace still is enthralled with going into the clubhouse. Now he asks throughout the game if they are winning of losing to find out if he is able to go! W's are the golden ticket. Its so funny, he gets so upset and is so confused if and why they lose sometimes! Its too cute.

Flying to Round Rock below, having fun with his daddy on the plane!

Ace and I were able to sneak away to the OKC zoo too for a quick trip! So much fun! I just can't get enough of my little guy. He was mimicking the gorilla below! We had a blast!

I went to Shrevport to attend a USFA tournament for Mizuno. I was able to meet some adorable young softballers and some great people. Even get in some snapper and stuffed shrimp! It was delish! Oh the south!

Looking forward to another game tomorrow night here in Elgin vs Akron.

It was fun seeing my girls even though they are our opponents now with Akron... they are still my girls, Jenny Topping (My Top) and Crystl Bustos (My Boo)! Much more fun seeing them off the field and out of uniform, then in. But its always good to see friends, these girls have a special place within me. We missed them not playing USA ball this summer. This league the NPF, is full of talent. SO many great players, great competition every single game!

Dreaming & Believing,
#27

USA 2-0!

2009-08-02T00:44:00.000-07:00

We won! USA here we come! It was a great game! Over 3,000 people attended! Good times here in Japan! It was a close one, it was so fun being out there on that mound today! Lappin called such a great game behind the plate. She kept the hitters off balance. We opened the game up with getting 2 runs in the first inning and was able to hold the lead. Great to get those butterflies and compete! I LOVE IT! Defense did a great job keeping it to a shut out!

My little friend, the adorable little boy I blogged about yesterday came back today! Oh, he is too cute! He made my day! I was so happy to see him again! Everyone here as been such generous hosts, a true pleasure. I was able to get a picture with him and his family. I will look forward to hopefully getting the picture to show you just how cute he is! They even brought a gift for Ace, so cute! I gave him my batting gloves and he waved them to us as we pulled away. So cute.

It was sad leaving the field in a way. This was our last event for USA for the summer. I know for me its year to year and just thinking that this could of possibly been my last time wearing the jersey makes me... well, its hard to imagine. Tears to say the least. But not dwelling or trying to think about that its just in the back of my mind. I'm just enjoying the moment, loving it, appreciating it. So grateful and blessed!

Speaking of Ace. Oh man I miss my lil' guy! I can't wait to get back to see him and my big guy! Hoping our travel back goes quick! Really quick!

Now... we are going for a Mc Donald's run, our victory dinner! ;) Going for the cheeseburger baby, with fries! Oh and a Diet Coke! :)

Believing!
#27

Good day for USA!

2009-08-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

We picked up 2 wins today! We played Chinese Taipei first, 11-2. Then played Japan, 6-1. Long day at the park. Lots of fun! Lots of offense, gotta love it! Getting ready for bed! We play Japan tomorrow in the final.

The fans at the park are so cute! They are so excited and so very sweet! There was a little boy who captured my heart! He kept yelling bye bye as we were leaving. He was so stinking cute! Looking forward to tomorrow!

Sayonara!
Believing!
#27

Day 2 in Japan

2009-07-31T05:07:00.001-07:00

We woke up wake too early! 4 am! So lots of computer time this morning! Was able to skype my nephews which was the highlight. So much fun! We had a long morning waiting for the game.

We beat Australia 11-3. We over all played well, offensively we came out and set the tone for the game. It was good to get that first game under our belt. Half of our team is wearing USA for the first time here in Japan, exciting stuff. Our team split up after World Cup. Half is here and half is in Venezuela for the Pan Am Qualifier. We are missing our girls... But enjoying the new additions for this team.

We are beyond tired! I think I've slept less than 10 hours since we left LA on Tuesday. I'm hoping tonight is the night for some good sleep.

Tomorrow we have a big day, a double header. Chinese Taipei and Japan. We look forward to competing again tomorrow.

Go USA!

Pan Am Team- We are wishing you all the best! Love and Prayers! Represent! Good luck against the Virgin Islands today!

Dreaming of a good nights sleep!
#27

Day 1 in Japan

2009-07-30T04:25:00.001-07:00

Today we woke up rested and ready to go eat! We went and ate breakfast here in the hotel. I chowed down on eggs and toast. The bread here is quite delish fluffy and super soft. Can't wait til tomorrow morning! :) We enjoyed the extra strong coffee that is served here and headed straight for our computers. I was able to skype Ace for over 30 minutes this morning. It was so fun being right there with him in the family room. He was asking about all the girls and playing peek a boo with Tash! Even gave a few high fives via computer screen.

We had a spaghetti lunch and headed out to the field for practice. The weather was beautiful! We are playing on turf so it was good to get out there and get some reps. The stadium is really nice and quite big. After practice we headed back to the hotel and showered up. Tash and I went out to find some dinner. We ate at this little cafe/diner. Quite fun, Tash said her and Monica Abbott eat at this place quite frequent (They both play here in the Japan league). So I looked to her for assistance. I had a tomato and mozzarella salad, soup, and bread! Quite good and hit the spot. From there we stopped for a latte at Starbucks, couldn't pass it up. And to top off the night we stopped for some green tea ice cream. It is so good! I make sure to get it every time I am over here. And that was our night! Not a bad day in Sendai!

Tomorrow we open up the tournament with Australia at 3:30.

Here is our meal when we boarded the bus after our flight. A typical box lunch for over here. Chicken, pasta, salad, hot dog and egg. 4 half sandwiches, minus the egg salad sandwich, that one I ate. One cucumber, a chicken, and potato sandwich.

Here is Lauren Lappin at the field! We just arrived for practice. She is ready to go with a big grin!

Here is the team getting ready for practice.

This is us post practice. Heading back to the hotel! Burkhart with the peace sign!

Here is a picture of the teeny tiny puppy store we passed on our way to eat tonight. A whole bunch of teeny tiny dogs. They all were little bitty! So very cute. We couldn't stay too long the smell was horrid, but those puppies were adorable!

Saiynara!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Adventure to Japan, We Made it!

2009-07-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

I gave Ace a big hug and tons of kisses before leaving. Even gave him a few monkey faces through the window. I was fighting the tears hoping to get some laughter. Mission accomplished. In a weird way it was as though Ace was even unsure but fighting the uncertainty giving me a half smile. I could tell in his voice and by the look on his face he was uneasy about me leaving! He was a brave big boy for mommy knowing I couldn't take a sad good bye. So I left with seeing the cutest grin in the whole wide world on his face through the window.

I left LAX with a big Baja Fresh Chicken Burrito (gotta get my Mexican food in before headed to Japan) and a $30 dollar bag of snacks in tow! This girl was prepared and loaded with grub!
And boy did we grub! Jenae even ordered us the Asian dish instead of the cheese ravioli which we stared and drooled over while others dove into the dreamy pasta (well sort of). A little laughing too at her mistake while we slurped up our noodles. They weren't too bad! Jenae Leles and I had our own row so we were able to stretch it out! Amen, thank you Jesus! We watched Ghosts from the Girlfriends Past, it was really cute along with Matthew Mcconaughey! Tasha, Lappin, and I were able to catch up in the emergency exit row for a good hour, along with some stretching! The flight was around 11 hours and 11 hours of grubbin' did we do! :) Jenae and I brainstormed about new product for the fall and winter for the online store www.jenniefinchstore.com and for camps! Lots of super fun cute ideas! Stay tuned!

We landed in Japan and laughed our delirious way through customs.
Finding our high water warm up pants so stinking funny as we walked on! After we got our luggage I snuck over to rent a phone! Gotta check on my Ace's! We were then notified of our 7 hour bus ride to Sendai...yea 7 more hours of traveling! So here we are lunch boxes in hand on the bus! The egg salad sandwiches are always the hit here! The salad was good too with a soy ginger dressing. The fruit here is always outstanding! The banana hit the spot! Can't wait for the Fuji apples, so crisp and sweet! I still have not had any shut eye since leaving the states and are in desperate need.

We just got back on the bus after our first pit stop on the journey. Ace scored a plastic fruit vegetable set with a cutting board! He will be able to cut them into 2 pieces! Too cute. And I couldn't resist the transformer beetles! Some big bugs, he will enjoy!

Made it to hotel and eagerly hoping for some rest!

Dreaming,
#27

All Star Break, World Cup, and Round Rock!

2009-07-28T07:44:00.001-07:00

First off, sorry! Its been a while!

We've had a great couple of weeks, lots of fun stuff! We landed in OKC for the World Cup so excited to see Casey! He joined us for his All Star break! It was such a fun couple of days together, Ace was in heaven having his daddy there!

Here are a few shots from a team appearance/picnic we had in OKC. As you can see Casey is thrilled to be there in the first one, this is upon arrival! And he still looks handsome! :)

This next is both my Aces cuddled! Thanks to my lil' Ace he got Casey to smile! So very cute! I am one blessed mama!
Here are a few shots of Ace climbing all over the USA team bus! He couldn't wait to hop on after every game! He loves team buses! He's a road dog! Monica Abbott sat behind and often entertained him! Dre (Andrea Duran) ended up putting him up in the overhead compartment, which he almost fell out of getting down! :) The Bandits Bus has sleepers in the back and I think Ace thought thats what these overhead compartments were too, his sleeper!

Grinning so excited to be with the girls on the bus, post game!

Ace and I after the pink game! Even Ace represented! This game was close to my heart as is the many women I knew, know, and do not know battling the horrible disease of cancer. Many of my loved ones were extra close to my heart this game. USA Softball will be auctioning off our jerseys and game used equip from the game for Susan G. Komen.

Ace and I after the final game at World Cup! What an amazing week we had! I CANNOT thank the fans enough! They created the atmosphere you dream about as a player! We had such a blast playing in front of you all, whether it was in person or in your living rooms! Thank you for all your support! What a magical week!

I've been getting many comments on me playing first base and hitting. Thank you... Many never knew I played another position. Its letting me know how old I am and how long I've been out of college! :) At Arizona I was blessed to be in the line up and play first when I wasn't pitching. I still with USA always practiced at first and took BP in the past but this summer I've had the opportunity to play the field! I CANNOT tell you how MUCH FUN its been! Thanks to the Bandits I was able to get some AB's in this season and in the past. To be honest I forgot how much fun it was... I feel like I am 8 years old again. Loving every second. Yes, I love pitching but its only 1 out of every 4 or 5 games... It almost brings tears to my eyes to have this opportunity. To be able to contribute to our team in this way, I can't even put words to describe the thrill its been!

After the World Cup, thanks to the Daigle's we were able to hop in the truck right after the game and head down to Round Rock asap to get to Casey! Our families are our rocks along this journey! We are so blessed and grateful. I think we pulled in the drive way at 6 am! This gave us a couple days to visit with him and we enjoyed every second! Here is a shot of our time with Casey and the Express. Casey is now closing for them out of the pen and loving it! We have so much fun cheering him on, its relaxing watching going to ball park cheering him on and the Express!

Ace and I hit the road on Friday heading up to Diamond Nation in Flemington, New Jersey. We had our first softball tournament on the complex. It was so much fun to see the action and meeting the players! The Academy is coming along! Lots of exciting stuff going on over on the east coast!

From there we headed south to Orlando (Disney) for the USSSA Nationals. There were over 150 teams there. What an event, I had fun! It was great to catch up with Stacey Nuveman, Lisa Fernandez, my USA mommies! We signed for about 4 hours, through the rain and all. It was great to be around them and visit, good times! I sure miss them! The NPF Pride and Force had a great crowd to play in front of too! And next time we go to Orlando, we ARE going to Disney World! :)

I am supposed to be packing up for Japan as I type! I better get to it and the eliptical, before I have to head out to the airport. This is our last USA event for the summer. I am looking forward to the trip, not saying bye to Ace but anxious to get back on the field again. Leaving is NEVER easy and does NOT ever get any easier. By this time of the year/summer every good bye is a teary one... I know off season is coming. Its always the anticipation of leaving that is the worst. Once I am on the trip atleast I know its began and there is an end. Luckily I have the Worlds Greatest Teammates! Looking forward to a great week overseas!

I will try to post from Japan! Better get to that eliptical before this long flight!

Dreaming it, Believing It, & Living it!
#27

Canada Cup!

2009-07-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

We had a great week in Canada! The Canada Cup is a special tournament, lots of great memories here in Surrey. It was the 16th year of the tournament. Great crowds, great atmosphere, and always a great tournament! We ended up winning the tournament with a big win over Canada. It was our first competition as a National Team for 09'. It was so exciting taking the field in red, white, and blue, for another summer! This is a fun group and a great talented team! Its so fun experiencing "first's" as a USA team member with some of the girls. Along with getting back on the field with the returners. I've enjoyed the opportunity to play the field too. I can not express my excitement about playing first base and having the chance to help out offensively. I love it! Here are some pictures from the final day in at the Canada Cup!

Now we are headed to Oklahoma City for the World Cup! It will be another exciting great week of competition! Check it out on ESPN or come out and support USA in OKC!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Happy "late" Father's Day!

2009-06-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

With Father's Day last Sunday the many great Father's in our lives have been on my heart!
We are so blessed, beyond words!!! So many incredible Father's! Casey, My dad, Casey's Dad, our Grandfathers that we hold so many great memories of, our brothers, our friends, and so many "fathers"! For all of them we are so grateful!

I think ultimately of our heavenly Father! Our Lord of Lords, our Savior, Jesus Christ. What a great example He gave for us and for Fathers. His sacrifice, the Ultimate sacrifice He gave for us. We all are able to feel His love, by grace! We can not even fathom how great His love is for each and everyone of us. For this we are all eternally thankful! He is our eternal father and has blessed us with so many incredible earthly fathers!

May we all love, appreciate, and acknowledge those who are "fathers" in our lives.

Thank you to my dad, to Casey for the dad he is, and the many dads in my life and others!

Ace and Grandpa Finch
Ace and "Pops" Daigle along with "Gramie" Daigle

#27

Perfect, Only from HIM!

2009-06-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

It was perfection for us (The Bandits) defensively tonight! What a night! A lot of fun! So much fun, not going to be shy about it! Its been a long couple of months getting back. Rachel Folden and I were on the same the page, groovin, she called a great game! It was so much fun to be out there competing with my teammates, Go Bandits!

I have to give all the glory to Him, the only true perfection I know. You, Jesus! Thank you! By your grace and only by your grace! The Valleys and the Mountain Tops you are always there at work, moving and shaking! Thank you Lord for your perfect timing in all things. We will keep looking to You through it all and in all!

USA Tryouts was a lot of fun! It was a young group for the most part but ballers they are! It was fun to be a part of the excitement, youthfulness, and eagerness. For a lot of the players invited it was their first USA experience. It was great to be able to witness them going after their dreams, dreams of wearing the red, white, & blue. This is what it was all about. They were taking it all in, treasuring, and storing it! Lots of fun in San Diego. I am so grateful to be able to be apart of it and again have the honor of wearing USA this summer. I will be playing in the Canada Cup, Oklahoma World Cup, and the Japan Cup. I look forward to competing with this talented group.

It was a little different this time. A new quad, many new players, and a new Coach. Sadly Coach Candrea retired from USA along with many legends of this game. They will all be missed so dearly! It won't be the same, but we look forward to the future of USA Softball. Look forward to Coach Miller and the future players of our game. It was a special week! A little reunion for us returners too. Congrats to all the invites, thanks for a fun week of great softball.

After tryouts we were able to catch up with Casey for a couple days. Very short days it felt like. It was so much fun hanging with family and being with Casey! Casey is doing so well! We are so proud of him and all he is doing for the Express. He sacrifices a lot, and is so encouraging of my lil' softball gig! ;) I am so grateful and so honored to call him my husband! He is having such a great year! Keep it up honey!

Ace is now locking me out of the bathroom stall... yet another milestone! Oh, he is getting so big! Too big! We are loving every minute spent with him. He is such a fun lil' man and so full of it. He is into singing, bull riding, fighting the thing called sleep, baseball (like his daddy, he is not shy to tell anyone and everyone his daddy plays baseball), eating (I think we are in a growth spurt), animals, attempting to swim (he doesn't get very far), being outside, wearing his catchers mask, and just a sweetie and a lover, he loves to cuddle! He is so much fun and what a blessing!

Every good and perfect gift comes from Him!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Headed to USA Try Outs

2009-06-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Bandits pulled off 2 more Win's against the Force. It was great to open up the season at home at Judson University. Its so much fun to play in front of our home crowd. We have many amazing, dedicated fans whom we are so grateful for. I was able to feel the "click" a little bit on Saturday night closing out the game. Our bats were booming on Sunday finishing with a big win!

I went to Boston for a signing Sunday for a quick in and out trip. Was able to meet some great people on the east coast. Die hard Red Sox fans that's for sure.

Now, I am headed down to the Olympic Training Center for the USA Softball tryouts. There are 41 girls going down there for four days filled with scrimmages and great softball. It will be great to be back in the USA environment. Its been a long off season! My mom pointed out to me a couple of weeks ago that I will be the oldest invite. Crazy... I was in the clear by like 5 years, just a couple of months ago and now at 28 I am the oldest. Try outs are always a bit nerve racking no matter what your status or history with USA is. Its good nerves though, those butterflies that you have a love/hate relationship with. I look forward to getting back on the field with the red, white, and blue.

Believing,

#27

Gotta love this game!

2009-06-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's a game of failure and all about consistency. Not getting too high or too low. Tonight was a rough one. I'm not a good loser and I hope never to be. I love to compete! I love this game! But I HATE TO LOSE!

These past few months have been a roller coaster ride for me getting back into things. My pitching mechanics have put me through the ringer. I have been battling with them. There has been major internal struggles going inside this body. A major tug o war, nothing like you've quite seen of TV... A tug o war! You try to keep them in your body and far away from your brain/mind... this is the hard part. Not going mental... its not easy. Especially when you are battling yourself daily! I was debating to even write about it publicly but here I am.

I feel many others may have this same struggle and see there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This game isn't easy, not even for Olympians! :) (and its not about what you've done in the past, its the past!) I'm not a quitter but when your mechanics won't cooperate its a rough ride. I know mentally what I need to do, its just getting the physical part to comply. It clicked about 2 weeks ago, Amen! I was filled with tears on the mound, finally I felt like I should feel. My pitches were moving like they should and I had that "pop"! Amen, I was dancing leaving the field! Now, its just trying to get my body to do this consistently. For a while I had to make a conscious effort every single pitch and at times it still didn't happen. I did it all, video taped, visualized, analyzed, prayed, it all... over and over. Honestly this was such a tough time for me about a month ago. But by God's grace, a lot of work, believers in me, I'm on my way out. Yes, through tears, struggle, doubt, many hours in frustration, Coaching, and much more it finally clicked. The moment I had been waiting for the magic click.

Now is the tricky part getting it to click each and every time. And yes I am greedy, click without even having to think about it. This is where I want to be. My first outing was on Wednesday night for the Bandits. Wow, it felt good out there. I was so stinking fired up! I'm back! Finally!
Of course, it never comes fast enough! Just when I thought this... well the Lord is keeping me on my toes. Keeping me humble and keeping me grateful for the good times out there.

Then came tonight... well it was a rough one. I didn't have it. I had bits and pieces of it in the pen but it wasn't that magical click. So I battled out there on the mound. There are going to be days where you don't have it, but I wasn't ready to take a step back. I want this train to keep moving! It was one of those days where I relied a lot on my change up and hitting my spots. I felt confident in getting 2 strikes but where was strike 3? I battled and thanks to my defense it didn't turn out too bad. 1 pitch, as soon as I let it go, I knew... I knew. Not good instantly. I haven't hung a screw ball like this one in a while. UGH, I will relive it over and over again for a while. The 1 pitch, the 1 mistake. YUCK! For you pitchers out there you know exactly where I am it with this.

After my outing I went over to the pen and it clicked again. The magic click. Wow, I had my legs again, I was finishing strong on my pitches, I had the "pop"! I know its within its just a matter of getting it there every time I step on the mound. Good news is my speeds were up, 67-68 on Wednesday! Good stuff... tonight there were down a bit. I need to continue to go to work and be as consistent as I can and continue that magic click. Every time. And battle even when that magic click isn't there, you battle and battle confidently. This is what makes you the pitcher, player, person you are... your battle.

It was a rough battle tonight for us on the field. Defensively we had it rough. But there were some great things on the field though at the same time. We came back twice, we had quite a few good at bats. In the end we beat ourselves... this game does this. Its a gut check... Luckily for us we have tomorrow, it is our first series, and we are loaded with talent. Its just a matter of continuing for consistency, working hard, respecting the game, and respecting our opponents. Its going to be a battle all year here in the Pro League, we play each team in a 5 game series. They are going to know us and we are going to know them. This is the best of best here in the NPF. It will come down to many dog fights and many whoever makes the first mistake loses kinda games. What an awesome season this will be! Great times!

However, we are aware of the fight and I'm proud to go to battle with these girls and we will be ready.

Loving this game, the good times and the bad times.

Dreaming & Believing... for the magic click every time!
#27

Opening Day for the Bandits!

2009-06-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

What an amazing night last night. I have to admit I was a little teary eyed taking the field last night as a Bandit. I was surrounded by incredible female athletes who are all living out their dreams! There was a huge staff working so hard to pull this off for us and for the future of our league and more importantly the millions of young girls out there. What a night!

Yes, I have to admit there were not thousands of fans in the Stadium. Maybe field is more appropriate but to us its OUR STADIUM! To us, its not about that, its not about money, publicity, fame, sponsors, its about playing the game we love!

Here we are the best of our sport competing, never taking a single day for granted in uniform. Appreciating every person that stepped through the gates (or gate) to watch us. Here in the NPF the teams stay after sign EVERY autograph, chat, and mingle with our fans. Thank each and everyone who comes out to watch! Some of my teammates spent there own money to make our Stadium what it is. This is what it is all about. We do not expect anything, but hope for... hope for more opportunity to play. These women get it, they love it. I was humbled to take the field with them. Our goal is to give these fans reasons to come out again. Play softball the way it was meant to be played. We respect the game, play it hard, appreciate every second out there.

To see how much the Bandits Ownership have done and have given for this team is mind boggling! But incredible and we are forever grateful. Our Stadium is one of the best, it truly exemplifies what Professional Softball is all about, we are treated like Pros! I feel so blessed to be a part of such a great ball club! And as players we get it, we are willing to help out, and do all we can to help it continue.

Taking the field last night was a little bit more emotional for me. I have to admit, it might be my last, and that overfills my eyes with tears. At this point in my life a wife, a mother, I am not sure how many more seasons I have, if any after this one. My hope is to give it all I have this season just as I have all of my seasons. My hope is that it is enough for our sport and this league to continue, just as the many women before me have done. To think of maybe not taking the field next summer honestly instantly causes a big lump in my throat. I will not be thinking of this but it will be in the back of my mind every day this summer.

I LOVE this game! I LOVE my teammates! I LOVE competing! I LOVE the opportunity we have. I LOVE it!

I am reminded of how the Lord tells us to live, live as if everyday is our last. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. And the feeling of urgency and giving it all we have, should not just be because it might be our last season for example. It should be how we live daily! We never know, our days on earth are numbered and each and every breath is gift!

My hope and prayer is that I live this way not only as a Bandit but in every other aspect of my life.

Always Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Summer & Softball

2009-06-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

How about this years Women's College World Series? Amazing! Talk about some incredible games! Every night I have been covered in chills tuning in. Looking forward to tonight, Can Florida come back? Washington seems unstoppable at this point. However, you never know and this series has proved that.

Summer has been going good! We have been enjoying having family in Round Rock and loving every minute spent with them there. Its the first time we have been close to family for the baseball season. An answered prayer for sure! Casey is loving being in the South and has warmed right up! Even found the fishing spots, not hard to do for him.

I am so excited to be back with the Bandits this summer! There are so many amazing women here in the National Pro Fastpitch League who have given so much for this league and our game. I am in awe! These women have put their "real lives" either on hold or have made it work in order to be able to pack up and leave to play for the summer. This is such an amazing opportunity, so many unselfish women, owners, Coaches, and the list just goes on and on! The NPF is full of talent, the best of the best. I look forward to the challenge of every series. I look forward to opening up tomorrow night against Philly! This is my 5th summer on the roster and to see how much has been invested into to making this what it is, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude and hope!

I have loved every second getting back on the field with teammates! It is such a special feeling and the best environment!

Ace is doing great! Enjoying being a Bandit too! He had his first Dentist visit last week. He was so good, my little guy! He just laid there and was a champ. Not too hard with SpongeBob playing on the ceiling! :) His 3 yr old Dr. visit on the other hand, he wasn't too excited for. He thought there would be a few shots, but luckily not this visit!

Ace on the field in Rockford, swinging for the fences!

He is just crazy, still sporting his jersey everyday! Head to toe! Too funny! The other day we were headed to Rockford for a scrimmage game against the Thunder and I was telling Ace he was going to see Cat (Osterman). I was asking if he remembered her? He replied, is that a jaguar or is she a girl? Too too funny! Cat got a good laugh about it too! ;)

Well better get going, off to practice!

Dreaming & Believing!

#27

Oklahoma Camp & Mother's Day!

2009-05-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

We've been busy but we are enjoying... I was honored to attend a fundraiser for Health Corps, Dr. Oz's Charity in NY. It was very extravagant, amazing! There were Elegant Acrobats, Rope Climbers, Russell Simmons, the Iron Chef, Quincy Jones, and so many/much more, an incredible event. Its not the event its the cause! Health Corps is helping fight childhood obesity, assisting schools reevaluate their nutrition and physical education classes. I am on the Athlete Advisory Board of N Play which is also a charity whom partnered with Health Corps. An honor!

After went over to NJ and met with Diamond Nation... so exciting! The fields are coming along! Its going to be awesome!

Oh, we had a great week following! I flew out to speak at the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament Dinner in Peoria, Ill. What a great group, again an honor! So fun to be around these woman enjoying such a great time in their lives! Congrats to Bradley University for winning it all!
From there I met up with the JF Camp Crew, my dear family! Oh where would we be... they are our rock! We had an amazing camp in Oklahoma! Thanks to the Healton Lady Bulldogs Softball Team for being incredible hosts! They were so so so sweet! Ace was spoiled rotten! First, he was generously given the Chaps you see above! He instantly had a strut! He's a true Cowboy... not quite. Then he was given spurs, also pictured above. You should of seen him walking around. Oh, it was too cute, hilarious! Then real "game used" numbers for the back of his vest from Spud, a true Cowboy! So much fun! Thanks to you all, we look forward to coming back next year!

The camp was so much fun! We had a great group, they were so excited to be there! The Coaches that came in to help, Big Thanks! I had fun hanging, like the good ole' days! It was such a great weekend filled with campers from 9 different states, the farthest camper all the way from Michigan! So many families so eager to learn and be around the game. Thanks for all the great memories, even if we were soaking wet on Sunday! We pulled it off and had a blast! Thank you Jesus for holding that rain til later on Sunday... the odds were against us! Once again, the Lord prevailed as always, Thank you Jesus!

After camp we loaded up and headed to Round Rock to get back to Daddy ASAP! We were blessed to spend Mothers Day with both our incredible Mother's and so many more special moms! Casey was so sweet and got me a big girl camera for Mother's Day... I'm so excited! Oh, and a pair hot mama pair cowboy boots! I gotta be able to hang with my cowboy "Ace"!
This pic above was at Casey's game... too cute. Ace having his own camera crew following him around the ball park! E, is doing a story on Baseball Couples. I couldn't pass this picture up! It will air in July, we will keep you posted.

This is Ace's Mommy look... I love it! My fav! Just Rotten!

...One day! :)

Ace's favorite part about the ball park, the clubhouse! He can't wait to get in there! So this is Ace being handed off to Daddy, his ticket in the clubhouse!

Today at the park pitching with my dad, Ace was pretending the dugout was the clubhouse. Yep, a bit of a difference between Daddy's fields and Mommy's fields! :) But we can pretend... until we get there!

We enjoyed our few days together as a family! I am so very grateful for those times when we can just relax and hang. Even if we are unpacking and packing at least we are together, and that's what matters.

We just announced our JF Softball Camp dates for this fall! So exciting!!! We are gearing up for a fun filled summer full of ball! I am enjoying College Softball, Go Cats!!! Its that time... summer is here!

Thank you all for most importantly your generous thoughtful prayers. We feel them, I have felt them these past couple of weeks! Thank you, as we continue to look to Him for courage, strength, and guidance in all we do!

Dreaming & Believing, Looking UP!

#27

Falling On My Knees...

2009-05-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

"I'm falling on my knees, Jesus you're all this heart is living for."

This is my prayer!

Oh, how my mind is full, can't quite keep it all together. Jeremy Camp reminded me of this tonight while I was on the treadmill. This is where I need to be.

Tears over fill my eyes as I am a bit overwhelmed and too consumed. This isn't a pity me blog but its my journal and so therefore I am spilling my heart. I am letting you in, into my heart and mind.

We are missing Casey, our heart is not complete. We are so blessed and thankful to be part of the Express but at the same time reality is hitting me that it is summer time. Which means very few days that we will see each other the next few months. Very few days and very few hours in those days. I mean, I can probably fit them on 2 hands. As Ace gets older this has become harder and harder. Harder for all 3 of us! Its getting harder and harder to miss out on family and friends, their gatherings, birthdays, celebrations, and more... their lives. I know often when I get consumed its my family that takes most of it... Casey and Ace thank you for your unconditional love! And our families, thank you! Thanks for keeping me sane! We rely so heavily on our families and COULD NOT pull this off with out them. We are forever in debt.

My plate is full. A total blessing, Thank You Jesus. However, I need to be reminded to keep my eyes upward on "the prize!" God is so real and so part of everything, all of this. Every good and perfect gift comes from Him. I so needed this tonight, reflection. To slow things down, I've been so consumed and out of it.

I know the devil attacks. Attacks me with worry and the filling up of my schedule. Busy-ness is a weakness of mine. It consumes me. As my mom often reminds me to take it one day at a time, I am trying...

The days are ticking, I am staring at the clock wishing it would slow down. Bandit's season in less than a month. USA try outs in a month. I need to go warp speed, this is on the fore front of my mind. I know I need to be on the mound daily at this point. Lord, my prayer is your will. I need to remind myself of this. You have a plan, I need to follow, with all of me, follow. Many times the Lord has slowed me down, reminding me of why I am here and my purpose. Again, I think/know He is talking to me.

A lot of great things happening, so much to be thankful for. I know I've been avoiding me in my journals, they have been mostly about Ace and Casey. They are what I love to talk about it its easy for me. Its been such a joy to slow down a bit and to be a wife and experience motherhood. I know the Lord has called me to use the platform of softball for Him, at the same time. He will provide, I'm looking to him to help pull this off.

So, I will let you in on a few fun/stressful blessings on the rise. Please notice fun is first, way ahead of the stress part. All such a blessing.

-My Camps, we put on with a host, Jennie Finch Softball Camps, across the country. We have 420 girls for this weekend in Oklahoma. Praise God, the glory is His! We have 6 dates for this fall that will be posted next week. 6 dates... 6 states, 6 stops! Awesome! This was a vision God gave me/us (my family, amazing family) and by His grace it has become a reality!

-Planning/Preparing to film a pitching DVD. This is so over due. However, I trust the Lord is at work and its His timing. Perfect timing! I can't wait to share this with the softball world and have it available come this summer.

-Diamond Nation, Jennie Finch Softball Academy partnering with Jack Cust Baseball Academy in Flemington, New Jersey. There are great people leading the way to the opening. A lot of work needs to be done to get it where we need it to be, we will get there. Exciting stuff, making softball year around in Jersey!

-Revamping of my website! So fun! Can't wait to show you all the final product. We've hired an amazing company to update and relaunch my website. Keep checking, www.JennieFinch.com

-Bandits Season, so excited! Can't wait to get back to Chicago, in pants (love our uni's)! Looking forward to being apart of an amazing team and league!

-USA Softball, always a complete honor.

-Teaming up with the charity nPlay

-Check out the cool stuff at WePlay.com, and register your team!

-Excited for the invite to play in the MLB All Star Celebrity Softball Game in St Louis in July!

-Appearances/Speaking

Lots of incredible things happening! All this summer, more like next month.

Hopefully to top it all off come October we will get word that Softball will be back in the Olympics for 2016!!!

All of this is just stuff, blessings but stuff. Lord you again reminded me of this is so much bigger than me. Enough of stress and enough of me. You humbled me again, again I lean on you in prayer.

My final prayer...

I was just notified this week of yet another softballer Ms. Hannah, facing cancer. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and is only 10 years old. I want to ask you all to keep Ms. Hannah in your prayers as she battles this terrible disease! We are all rooting for you Hannah!

Lord, Thank You for speaking to me tonight. A weight is lifted off my chest, up to you. Take it all, its all yours. I'm falling on my knees, offering you all of me! Give Hannah the strength and courage to fight and conquer this horrible disease!

By His Grace & His will,
Dreaming & Believing in Him,
#27

Bye Bye Binky!

2009-05-02T22:15:00.000-07:00

Good news, the Binky is Gone, Gone, for Good!

Ace's last sound sleep with his Binky!

We have been telling Ace when he turns 3, that is when he will give up his binky because he will officially be a big boy!

He was going to give it to Pop's (Casey's dad) horse, Alligators, Pop's dog Goose, and the list goes on and on of who was going to get the binky! Well last Sunday we had his first little birthday gathering and Casey asked if he wanted to give his binky to Hunter, Casey's brothers family dog? Ace nodded and busted up laughing, handing over his binky to Hunter.

As you can see Hunter took it. Casey then grabbed it and said Hunter swallowed it! My stomach dropped, looked at Casey and asked, "are you sure?" Half grinning, unsure, he answered, "I dont know?" Immediately my stomach dropped and I was full of unsureness and uneasiness!

So this was it, it seemed like a good time, might as well! We think?

Before we went to bed, Casey and I were talking about it...
Casey said, "I don't even care, we can give it to him. It doesn't even bother me!"
I replied, "Me either, why are we doing this?"
But we both knew deep down it was needed to be done, might as well just, get er' done!

That night was a rough one... crying on and off for about a good 2 hours. We just kept reassuring him he was a big boy and distracting him, over and over. Ace even told me to get in the car because we had to go to the store to buy another binky. He loved it. He missed it. He needed it! Oh, it was rough! We were strong and able to hold out!

The next morning however, he woke up way earlier than usual, bummer!

The next night, it was "Mommy I really really want my binky, but I gave it to Hunter!"
And that was it, good night!

Bummed now we are unable to keep him asleep while transporting him from place to place. Dang, we had it good... so good!

Night #3 it was, "I really really want my Binky, but I am a big boy!" Amen! Amen! And he was off to bed!

Day #4 it was, "Mommy I want that think that I suck on, I need it!" It was too funny, he was thinking if I rename it, maybe I will get it! So smart!

Night #4, "I am so frustrated with my blankie, I just want to bite it!" He so searches to soothe himself at night. He is doing so good! This has been way, way easier than I ever imagined! We are so blessed!

Now and then he'll randomly ask about it, and want it. But we are so very grateful for how easy it has been! We are so fully aware that we (Casey and I) caused this madness, but it has all worked out really good we have made it this far, 7 houses (atleast), over 39 states, and 4 countries, all with the help of a Binky!

Bye Bye Binky, we are all 3, all grown up now!

#27

The Express, Round Rock, Turning 3, & more!

2009-04-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

Amazing how God works! The Lord answered our prayers ten fold! Sorry for a bit of delay and not blogging, its been a bit crazy! Good crazy that is! Casey signed with the Astros and is playing for the Round Rock Express, Triple A! We could not of picked a better place to be! Casey's brother and his family live here and we are etching closer to aka "God's Country" for Casey Louisiana! We have so enjoyed spending time with family and being able to do things we so have longed to being close! Ace is enjoying his girl cousins here. The first night he comes running in from the girls playroom shouting, "Mommy, we are all Princesses!" Ugh Oh I thought! He is soaking up his time with his girls!

Casey is loving being back in uniform and on the mound! The Stadium is emaculate, the staff is so sweet, the community is very supportive! We are thankful, to be on board! Casey is getting back in the groove after a week and half off! It felt like a month, or two, for us all! We loaded up our trailer and off we went! Another zip code to put on our list of places we have lived! :)

Ace is about to turn 3! So much fun! We got him his own jersey and boy, does he love it! He has worn it the last 3 days in a row. Casey finally said, enough of the jersey huh? But I love it and he loves it! I think I am opting of just getting him an away one! :) The next morning after getting his jersey he wanted cleats. So Ms. Daigle went out to get him some. He was doing push ups on the floor in the store with his cleats on! Shouting, this is what baseball players do! I said, he needs pants if he has cleats, so now he has the whole get up! Not budging on his bull riding, its still going strong too!

We had a lil' birthday family gathering for Ace here with the Daigles yesterday. It was a lot of fun! He has been wanting a motorcycle for months now... so as you can see he got his motorcycle last night. He was doing tricks on it, loving it! He was so excited!

I will post soon about his binky! He gave it away to Hunter, his cousins dog! So that was it. We have been telling him when he turns 3 that is it! So stories are to come!

Thanks for all your support, love, and most importantly the greatest gift of all, prayers!

Gotta go! Ace just told me, he wants his whole jersey on, of course he does! That makes 4 days in a row!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Our Bull Rider!

2009-04-08T21:55:00.000-07:00

Check him out! Yep, that is our Ace! A Bull Rider and proud of it! Non stop, from morning til' night! Riding Bulls, tipping his hat to the ladies, boots, cowboy hat, bucking, flips, and doing it all over again! Oh and did I mention the clown and hopping fences escaping his feared yellow with blue pok a dotted Rody! Rody is his bulls name, yes he wanted a name for him. He met a young boy, 9 months to be exact today and immediately introduced himself as "Ace, and I'm a bull rider!" Too stinkin' cute! He loves it and can not get enough of it! Boy are we so happy to have Rody, it used to be us! Now we are in search of a clown with a big red nose, no of any?

Dreaming and Believing,
#27

Enjoying our time together!

2009-04-03T22:13:00.001-07:00

So, these last few days have been a bit rough. Casey did so well, worked so very hard, and yet was released. It's so very frustrating and hard to imagine. He did so well. I don't want to brag but Casey deserves to be bragged about. Especially having to go through this, with no explanations. They said he did all he was asked to do and beyond, but yet there is no room...? He gave up 2 hits in his last 8 innings. Left Big League camp with a little above a 1 era. It really has felt like he has been invisible. He earned his way... but yet was released. This left nothing but frustration and confusion. Its was almost as though it was a bad bad joke, it so does not make sense.

But, we are reminded and encouraged again and again, God has a perfect plan for Casey and us. Obviously, there is a better path and God has something amazing in store for Casey. It too has reminded me what an amazing husband I have. He has dealt with all of this with such grace. He is such a consistent guy, so mellow, easy going, really just amazing! I am so lucky and grateful! He is so very strong and it is almost as though we are looking to him for strength and Casey is providing. Our hearts are broken for him and with him but he is okay. So, we will be patient and Casey is a reminder to us, to let God lead us. Whenever and Wherever.

I want it so badly for Casey. I want him to have just an opportunity. I want people to appreciate him and the player that he is. I want him to have people believing in him and encouraging him. I know this is my prayers, hopes, and wants. But again, I am looking upward and trusting in our faithful heavenly Father to lead us.

I have to admit though, it has been a fun few days together as a family! The joy that Ace has brought us. The gut giggles Casey and I have shared. We are enjoying and trusting in Him. We are so very blessed and grateful for what we have. Looking upward!

Happy Birthday Baby! Casey is 28 in a couple of hours! April 4th. We love you and are so very proud of you! We are so thankful for the husband and daddy that you are! You are our shining star! We love you! Happy 28th! Ha, I'm not older anymore! ;) xoxo

Baseball...

2009-03-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well here we are, sitting on edge not really knowing where we are going for this season. This time of year is a bit crazy for many in the baseball world. Many friends of ours are in our same position, anxiously awaiting our husbands to come home to see if today is the day we will know. The Organization owns us, they tell us where we will go and when. Its a bit crazy, we have 2 cities (we think) in mind of where we are going. Well now more news as of today... we basically have no idea and just have to wait it out til Thursday, we think and hope. Yes, its tough especially when you have kids in tow. And most of all... even harder to swallow because Casey has done as well as he has this spring!

A bit overwhelmed having to turn in my United Stated Anti-Doping Where about form today the deadline (hard to tell them an address where we are going to be the next 3 months without knowing what state we are even going to be in), trying to figure out if we book flights, trying to line up housing at both places, looking at schedules of teams and comparing, training, moving, shipping, driving, and etc. Lots going through my head and trying not to overwhelm Casey, he has enough on his mind!

I read Betsy Tucker's journal about her precious daughter Audra! The Lord used her to speak to me today and many times throughout their journey! She wrote about enjoying the moment, enjoying every breath that Audra takes, being full of joy admiring Audra's chest move up and down, and graciously enjoying each and every God given moment we have. Amen! Tears began to fall off my cheeks, the Lord spoke, just enjoy! This was a gut check for me. Lord, may we just enjoy this moment. Betsy always writes, "Let go, Let God!" Amen.

In all the uncertainties of this world and worries little and big. God take them and let us enjoy each moment!

Watching Oprah today, seeing Michael J Fox speaking of his battle with Parkinson's. He spoke of how he enjoys every minute and how everything for him might be his last! I thought to myself, "Ok, Lord I got it!" Let go, Let God.

As my heart aches and is filled with prayers for Audra, and Micheal. Our worry and wonders are so so so tiny compared to those of Audra's and Micheal's. I thought of the pictures of Audra playing softball and my photo shoot with Micheal a couple of years ago. We hold them up in prayer along with many others battling horrible diseases. And they are a reminder to enjoy the moment! Every moment is a gift, a God given gift!

My heart aches too, for Casey working so hard this off season, doing so well this spring (he's been awesome!) but yet its as though he is invisible to the Organization. He deserves it.

But again I am reminded, Let go, Let God. We can only find peace in Him. We can't try to figure out the why's? Or understand them? Obviously its more than numbers and more than doing well. But what we do know and have faith in is that our Lord has his perfect plan for us and that is it. I know it still can be frustrating, I don't know how Casey handles it so well? I text Casey today telling him God has a mountain top for him somewhere with lakes full of big o' bass! But today the Lord spoke for sure, Let go, Let God!

#27

St. Patti's Day Fun!

2009-03-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time on St. Patrick's Day celebrating a dear friends birthday party! Here is a photo from the day! Ace is obsessed with bull riding! He was so excited to see there was a bull attending the party!

This weekend was a blast! We had some friends come in from California. We watched Casey pitch, ate, bbq'd, and ate some more! We enjoyed spending the weekend with them and soaking in the warm weather. We went out with friends to a place called Rawhide, its the Wild West! We had a lot fun there with friends, Ace had his buddies along! They road a train, a horse carriage, ate rattlesnake, and even watched bull riding to end the night! Good times!

A great weekend! Here is a shot of the boys on the carriage ride! Handsome cowboys!

Bull Riding and Loving it!

How about those Wildcats! Bear Down, Arizona!!! Keep it going! Sweet 16 and going! :)

We are enjoying our time together and getting ready for both of our seasons!

Dream & Believe,
#27

Thankful!

2009-03-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Monkey Faces to you! Mine and Ace's favorite face exchange! This all started with my dear friend and teammate Andrea Duran! Ace loves his "Dre," too, "she's fun," he says! This is the fun stuff your friends and teammates teach your children. Mostly it's good stuff but there is always some bad with the good! I love it! Thanks Dre! :)

We had dinner with some friends last night! We had such a blast and enjoyed the great company! We are so thankful! Here is Ace hamming it up! Casey pretty much stuck him in the water fall, he sure was amused. The things you can do when you 6'5"! This reminds me back in college my roommates would always laugh at me because I would stick things in high places! I am a smart girl! :)

On a serious note...
While I was flying last weekend at the airport I sat by a couple of our incredibly brave and amazing service men/women from the Army. All of them had over 10 years of service and were top ranked leaders. I immediately thanked them for their service and joined in for a conversation. After being thanked, a soldier with a gentle calm spirit looked me in the eyes and returned so seriously, "happy to do it." I will never forget him, what he said, and how he said it.

Ugh, this just stuck my heart. I wanted to give them all just a huge hug. It brought tears to my eyes hearing them talk about their families, sons, daughters, and more. Hearing of how they have truly made a difference in the middle east and brought a great change. Hearing how they mostly miss family, hardest part is losing soldiers, and they miss their daily freedoms when they are overseas.

Here they were on their fourth day of traveling in from Afghanistan, laughing about how they have spent 4 days in the same uniform they left in and smelling not so good at this point. I truly enjoyed our chat and was in awe visiting with them. They had a great attitude despite the fact it was looking as though they were going to be yet another day without a shower, stuck in an airport.

All of our servicemen and families have been heavy on my heart. We are continuously praying for each and every serviceman and their families! We are forever indebted and so grateful. Forever thankful! They are our true heroes, my heroes! Thank You!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Fun Stuff!!!

2009-03-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

We had a fun couples night out! Our first in a long long time, couples that is, not fun! Everyday is fun! :) A group of us went to the Rascal Flatts Concert on Thursday! What an incredible show! My dear friend Tiffany Fallon, (we met on the Apprentice) is married to Joe Don of the Rascal Flatts and they were so sweet to have us out for the night! They are so incredibly sweet! We had so much fun meeting the guys and enjoying their show! Casey enjoyed talking hunting with the guys. It was a lot of fun and a special treat!
!
We went to the mall the other day, the boys got hair cuts! Ace was standing by the elevator trying to get his daddy's stance down perfectly so I had to get a shot of it! Too cute!

We had a good weekend! Ace and I flew to LA to celebrate my nephews birthday! We had a lot of fun! Its not often that we get to make family functions and so it was really fun for us to share his special day with him! Ace had a lot of fun with his cousin! I stopped by Whittier Girls Softball league and did a short signing. It was fun to be out on the field again! The cutest things all decked out in their uni's, ribbons, and pink gloves!

Ace enjoying the party!
Here is Ace on the zip line!

Ace stayed with my parents while I flew out to Philly for a Memorabilia Show. It was a quick trip in and out! The best way to travel!

Casey is doing great! He is really having a great spring! We are so proud of him! We are learning to control the control ables. Casey is still plugging away working hard. The Lord has His plan and He will place us where we belong. It may not always make sense according to numbers and stats but the Lord has the ultimate plan. He knows what is best and our prayer is for His Will. That's it. We may not understand but we have peace knowing He is in control. Casey has worked so hard and that is all he/we can do. The Lord spoke this so clearly to me back in August in Beijing. We greatly appreciate all your support and prayers along our journey!

Dreaming & Always Believing!
#27

Spring at the Ball Park

2009-03-11T09:12:00.001-07:00

Another week has passed! I can't believe its already the middle of March! Time is flying by so quickly! We had a good weekend, Ace spent some quality time with his Grammie and Pops. Casey's parents came in for the weekend, we enjoyed having them here.

I headed out to Chicago on Friday for a quick trip. Westminister Christian had me out, for a day filled of events. I spoke at an assembly at the school, the students were a lot of fun and a great group. Lots of great questions from the students here are a few.

Have you ever puked in a game? Yes, I wasn't feeling too hot. But felt much better after the fact.
When did I become a Christian? I was 8 years old in Pioneer Girls at Church
Have I met Michael Phelps? Yes, he is a great guy and an amazing athlete!
My favorite pitch? Strike 3, ;)
How hard do I throw? Top out at 71 average high 60's.
Favorite bible verse? Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me."
How has faith helped me along the way? My faith gives me purpose and helps me keep things in perspective.
What has helped me stay grounded? My family, no doubt about it. They are my backbone! We are so grateful for both of our families! Casey and I both have amazing older siblings who are incredible people. We had them to look up to growing up and still!

After they held a mini clinic/demo. We had a great group, it was nice and intimate. The girls were eager to learn and fun to hang with! Its always enjoyable to talk about our game and share our passion and love for it with one another. I spoke at their annual dinner that night. I was able to meet some amazing parents and people. The Lord is at work, always! I met some special people from Judson University a Christian College in Elgin, Illinois and the home of the Chicago Bandits! This is where we will be this summer playing ball. Go Bandits! I was able to visit the Bandits office, I have to admit it fired me up about this summer!

Casey is pitching away. We are enjoying watching him play. Its a bit of a stressful time for him. Spring Training is basically a try out, so everyday and every pitch counts. Casey has been so close the last few years, we are so proud of him. I can't imagine if our Olympic try out was 6 weeks long and we had to wait that long to see if we made it. Ugh, one big stomach ache that's for sure. He is hanging in there and we are just here loving him along the way! We are blessed to know that the Lord has a plan and He will place us in the perfect spot! This is our prayer.

Ace is just being our Ace! He is just moving along. We kinda put preschool on the back burner. He is only 2 and for me selfishly it wasn't worth the heartache of it for him and I! Every morning he wakes up and tears up saying, "I don't want to go to preschool." So, I have come to the conclusion its not worth it right now. I am blessed to be able to be home with him and so very grateful enjoying my days with him. School will come way too soon anyways. Here are some pictures at the ball park, playing ball! I hope you are enjoying your spring and upcoming seasons!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Preschool & Spring Training Begins!

2009-03-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

Here is Ace and Casey after Game 1 of Spring Training! Casey looked good in Ranger Blue! He threw 1 inning and did great! It was fun to see him back on the mound. Ace was yelling for his daddy, it was too cute! It will be a fun season! We are meeting great people and friends within the organization!
Here is Ace a waiting his first day of preschool! He was OK, thanks to his Lil friend and roommate! Ace's bud is a gamer and they both went to preschool together for the first time! His friend helped him out of bed, other wise he was covering himself up saying, "I don't want to go to preschool!" He was good until he had to walk in the classroom. Then not so good. He clung on to my leg and said, "Mommy look at all the kids, too many kids!" It took him awhile to warm up. Still not convinced. He had his moments... Basically I spent the whole day with him at preschool.

I was so proud of him, he did so well considering this is all new! I did get to leave during playtime outside and came back after lunch so for about 45 min or so. Yes, after lots and lots of convincing! He said many times, "Take me home!" "I want to go home!" Some of his lines, "but mommy I love you," "you can't leave me!" His teacher said he did good, even ate 3 helpings of lunch! He was so excited to see me walk through the door! It was quite cute, he started to jump up and down and clap, shouting "Mommy, Mommy!" Ace and his buddy had a great 1st day of preschool! We even managed to take them back for day 2! Still some tears were shed but it ended up great! He is warming up to it! His buddy is coming in clutch for him, knowing him and having each other in class!
The highlight... picking him up on Day 2 and his teacher telling me he has really good manners! Ugh, my heart just melted, I was elated and so proud of our lil Ace!
Ace after school on his scooter! He is sure getting the hang of it!

We headed out to So Cal for the weekend! We had a great visit with my mom and dad! My grandmother is still out in California so again getting the chance to visit with her is an extra treat! Especially for Ace, he has his great grandma wrapped around his fingers, all of them!

I had to head out east for a signing in New Jersey. Thanks to all who came out! After, the signing I headed over to St. John's University to help them celebrate Women in Sports Day! I was stoked to catch some women's basketball too! They played Rutgers and battled tough! Man, so very different from the basketball I played in high school! Very physical, quite intense! I enjoyed it immensely! I spoke at the University's Banquet celebrating Women in Sport while raising awareness of Breast Cancer. I was elated to be involved! St. John's is quite the place filled with incredible people which make it what it is. They are a tight knit group of students who understand what it means to give back and help out! Thank you St. John's for your hospitality and friendliness!

We are excited to see whats in store for next week!

Keep dreaming & believing!
#27

Bull Riding & Preschool

2009-02-23T23:39:00.001-08:00

Last night the boys had a guys night out! PBR, Professional Bull Riders Event! They had a blast! They had front row seats right by the gate! Casey said Ace was in AWE! He loves watching bull riding on TV! I can't wait to take him to Rodeo's! He loves it! Casey said they even were splattered with Bull Poop, that's how close they were. He called at the start and said Ace had his own Dr. Pepper, Churro, Popcorn, Licorice, and a Burrito! I highly doubt the burrito was eaten! They had some fun! They came home all fired up, I think Ace went to bed on a bull. They were playing rodeo all night long! He even had a pretend rope! He has his whole ride down even one hand in the air. So much fun!

I had a signing in St Louis this past weekend, I took Ace along! It was a fun one day trip! Ace usually says he wants to go with me while crying as I leave... of course the time I decide to take him he says he wants daddy the whole time. He went to bed in St. Louis saying he wanted to go home. It ended up being a good trip after all. Great to meet the people in St. Louis, thank you for coming out! I look over on the plane ride home and Ace is out, snoozing, laying on his tray table. Too cute!

Tomorrow we are taking Ace to his first day of preschool!!! He is so big! Just crazy... we've visited the place I think 4 times in the last week! He asked to go last week after story time at the library. So I thought, well maybe he is ready. We will see tomorrow! Casey got him a back pack he was wearing it around tonight, ready to go. We have been hyping it up, puzzles, paint, toys, food, potties, playground, it all!!! So we will see. A new adventure, our little guy is growing up. We were at Mc Donald's today and he ran into this boy on accident and he looked up to him and said, "Sorry." Ugh, with the sweetest voice. Ace might be ready to go, but I don't know if I am ready. I guess tomorrow will tell, for both of us!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Our family Fishing Trip!

2009-02-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

Casey took us out on the boat, his little piece of heaven! This guy of mine could fish all day, all night, everyday! He is so excited about Ace getting to the age of being able to go fishing with him. I still have to be the mediator letting Casey know he would rather just play with the fish than keep catching them. For Casey when he's fishing its like he's in a BassMaster competition every time. (I don't even know if they call them that or where I got that from but it sounded good.) There is no, just a day out on the boat... I think/hope this will be the day every time. Never. But we did manage to have quite a bit of fun! The fish above was his first one of the day. Ace actually reeled it in too! It was pretty funny Casey shouting at Ace to "set the hook!". I have to let Casey know he has no idea what "set the hook" means, honey! He is 2! Casey has to fight back his game mode mentality... it is quite funny to see. Ace kept telling us how he caught a "big o bass," too cute!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Happy Valentine's Week!

2009-02-16T20:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Casey surprised me with breakfast in bed! So very sweet! He, I think finally knows me completely! I am a simple girl and that was just perfect! Everything and more... we were able to cook dinner and enjoy Valentine's Day as a family! Thank you honey!
We and some friends took the kids to the zoo this week! Ace had so much fun, he was in awe! Running from one to another, I think he enjoyed the giraffe's most. He even fed them! Casey and Ace were even spit on by the llamas and a friend even bit by an Ostrich! Danger Zone! We had fun and it added to the excitement! Casey's shirt was even half swallowed in the petting zoo by a deer! Quite the eventful day, full of fun!

Casey was anxious to start spring training! He is excited about the opportunity to be a Ranger! He says for the first time he isn't nervous about the conditioning! His hard work this off season has really helped him feel completely ready! We are looking forward to an incredible year for him! I am so proud of him!

Dream & Believe!
#27

A Great Week!

2009-02-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

We had a good week, a quiet week! Enjoying some down time and soaking up family time! I was able to do some cooking too! I made a little early St. Patrick's Day meal! Corn beef, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes! It was delicious! I even made a chowder out of the left overs! Quite tasty! We assisted Grandma Ada, Ace's great grandma, make her, "Oh so yummy, chocolate chip cookies!" Lots of Play Doh race tracks, monster trucks, and scooters! Its been great to enjoy the simple things with family!
Wednesday night I went up to LA's Viper's Room with some friends to watch one of my BF's from high school sing, Melanie Nyema! She has been singing back up for Solange Knowles. I felt like a proud mom, even teary eyed watching her perform, she worked it! I was beaming for her! I couldn't help but go back and picture her back at LMHS song dancing during half times! I am so proud of her and the woman she has become! We went out to another place after and met some of the band and stuffed our faces! Only us super jocks, eating platters of appetizers at 2 in the morning! Good times!

I was able to get out to my Alumni Middle School in La Mirada, Ca to visit with the students. Wow, it was the first time I have been back. Oh, did it bring back memories, most not so good. This was such a awkward stage for me. The principal reminded me of how I struggled with my make up and much more! This was in 8th grade, make up for me was brown lip liner, Ouch! I smiled and took it like a champ! Oh, the not so good ole days! It was great to reminisce about walking the halls with friends, the memories of the softball field, and my favorite snack machines! It was fun to see and share some of these memories with the students. Hopefully maybe inspire or encourage them in some small way. It was great to be back and see many of my teachers, still helping out our future leaders!

Casey is getting settled in for spring training, working hard! We will be heading out to Arizona soon. I am looking forward to cheering him on, this will be a fun season! Ace is at a great age for ball parks and being "Casey's" biggest little fan! Yes, Ace calls his daddy, Casey! We are looking forward to reconnecting with our friends in Arizona! It has been so much fun visiting family and friends. This has been an incredible off season, full of fun and relaxation! Its time for me to get back into the swing of things, literally! I am going to give myself 1 more week, then its go time! June is going to be here before we know it!

Ace is going to be so sad to leave grandma and grandpas, "Prada"! She has been his little buddy, not by choice!

Dream & Believe!
#27

So Cal Camp

2009-02-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

Lots of fun this weekend. Our first camp in pretty much my back yard! It was pretty amazing! The fields it took place on, we all have spent many many weekends there! It was great to be back and to have it filled with eager excited softball players for camp. It took me back to those days of 6 am warmups and long weekends in the sun! It was a blast! I want to thank all of my teammates that came out to help along with all of my family who gave up the weekend to help us out! We are so appreciative and grateful! Of course thanks to all the campers and families for joining in on our 2 day fun filled experience!

On Sunday, we had a special treat! Natalie Buchoz came out to join us! Natalie is an amazing girl, who has had an incredibly tough year. She was in a horrible skiing accident a little over year ago, she broke her neck in 2 places and much more. You can follow her and her journey at www.caringbridge.com Natalie Buchoz. She is on her way to making a full recovery! She is in courageous rehab at Operation Walk. Thanks to some incredibly generous people we were able to help raise a month of rehab for her! It was great to finally meet her, she spoke to the girls reminicing about her days on that same field a little more than a year ago. Thanks Natalie for coming out and keep your amazing spirit! We all know you can do it! Keep it up!

Here are some fun pictures from the weekend!

Laura Berg, the only USA softball 4 time Olympian, shouting! Teaching the girls her mad outfield skills!
Campers stretching out!
Showing off their autographed softball... I love this picture!
Won't miss a thing with this glove!
My dad, intensely talking pitching!
Andrea "Dre" Duran, teaching baserunning She got the most votes for most fun station!
Bustos signing an autograph!
Tasha, Berg, and I chalk talking it with the girls!

Cheese!

Having fun, getting warm!
Sharing medals, best part of having them!
Bustos talking shop!

As you can see we had some fun! Its tough to label it a camp, its an experience! Thank you to my sponsors and camp sponsors, without your dedication and help this could not be possible. Thank you for giving these girls such a Big League Experience!

Thanks to Mission Viejo High School, the city of Mission Viejo, my teammates, Biola University Softball, my family, all the volunteers, parents, and most of all the future of our sport, you campers!

Keep dreaming & believing!
#27

Busy Weekend!

2009-01-29T07:30:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I was packing my bags for a weekend with a full agenda. As soon as the bags came out, Ace knew. I found myself on the floor packing in the family room trying to reason with my 2 year old why I have to leave and why people have to work. Ace is all about the Whys and every statement was followed with a Why? It was a sad departure at the airport with Ace shouting, "Mommy Ace go, Ace go on the airplane!" Ugh, my heart just crumbled, and its not going to get easier. I immediately tried to reassure myself in a few minutes he is going to be all about his bubble gum or Winnie the Pooh movie. I called Casey to make for more reassurance.

I headed out to Fleming, New Jersey to announce the opening of Diamond Nation. I am so excited about the partnership with Jack Cust Jr. and his family, and the staff! He has the Jack Cust Baseball Academy that started over 10 years ago. They are expanding now and building Diamond Nation, it will be one of the top baseball and softball complexes in the US. Along with the... drum roll please! Jennie Finch Softball Academy. How incredibly neat is that! Its hard to imagine. I am so humbled and excited to be able to hopefully have an impact in the Northeast, help the game grow, and train many young women in our game! There are so many great talented softballers in the Northeast with no place to play when the weather gets bad. Now, softball will not only be a season in the Northeast, it will be a year around event! There is also a dome set up for the winters! It is in the works under construction. We have many exciting things in store, lessons, clinics, tournaments, leagues, and even a travel organization!
Check it out at DiamondNation.com

From New Jersey I headed down south to Houston, Texas. I did a public signing there at a Card/Trade Show. These are always fun because you never know who you are going to meet. I got to meet many incredible fans and many baseball greats of the past and present. To name a few, Tony Gwynn, Craig Biggio, and more! I have to pinch myself to have the opportunity to sign my name and get paid doing so. I always chat with many of the people in the business, finding out who is nice, who is a bit nuts, and so forth. Hearing that athletes come to these shows and complain the whole time they are signing is absolutely mind boggling. Its even hard for me to grasp getting paid for an autograph. I am a bit torn when young girls especially show up knowing they paid to come. I realize though that without this card show paying my way and etc to get to the city and be there, I wouldn't be able to meet the people/young girls I do. Knowing this it makes it a bit easier, along with the many many hours we softball players have stayed after games signing, usually the last to leave the ball park. Don't get me wrong we are delighted to, we are just grateful to have the fans we do come watch us!

We are getting paid to write our name, people dream of this, its crazy how people are not grinning ear to ear while they sign. I sure am, gratefully signing each signature. Usually, I am the only female or there is very few, which make it even more special. So, if you ever come to a public signing you can't miss me, I am in the corner, perhaps the one girl, thanking all that come, and sporting a Colgate smile. Thank you again, to those who came!

Sunday night from Houston I flew up to Minneapolis, Minnesota. The good ole Midwest! I love it there, the people, the food, the pace of life, the corn fields, the cow smell, and more! I have mid western roots with my whole family except for me being born there. I am the lone Californian. Some of my greatest family memories are held there, touring the farms, hiding in the corn fields, sledding, snowmobiling, even oddly at the butcher beef jerky in hand, treasured memories with my grandparents! So much fun! When I landed it was 4 degrees! Unbelievable! We headed to Rochester, for the Rochester Amateur Sports Commission's Annual Dinner. It was a great event, honoring many local star athletes! It was great hearing their stories and seeing them proudly except their awards. I was the speaker for the night which makes me quite nervous. This one was different though, the community was so laid back, welcoming, and easy going. I enjoyed the night and meeting so many very sweet people. Thank you Rochester!

I am so grateful for the many opportunities that come my way, especially in this economy. My heart goes out to the many who are being laid off... its just horrible. I send my prayers out to all of them and their families.

I couldn't get home fast enough to my Ace's. Peeking in the car seeing his grinning face, its indescribable! Motherhood by far is the greatest of all!

We are gearing up for our camp this weekend in Southern California, we are accepting registration on Saturday. Please come out and join us. Details at JennieFinch.com under camps. We look forward to a great weekend!

Casey is itching to start spring training! It is coming fast! Its been ground hog day for him most of the off season, working out every morning for a good 4, 5, 6, hours a day! We are encouraged by the opportunity of being with the Rangers, and are looking forward to a great season!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Potties, Binky's, & Blankie's

2009-01-21T09:44:00.000-08:00

This is Ace's world! What a life!

We are such lucky parents, God knew we needed to start out with an easy one. This lil guy has traveled the world in his 2 little years. He has been to China, Japan, and over 30 states. Unbelievable! He is so easy going and adaptable. Its pretty much all he has ever known, airplanes and hotels.

He knows of Tucson and that as his toy land. "Tuscon," he says," Ace has that in Tucson." Everything is in Tucson! Despite the fact that he has only been there 2 weeks this entire year. He is surrounded by love where ever he ends up and that is all that matters! And toys seem to appear wherever he lands!

Well and of course his binky and blankie! To him, that is his world. My stomach starts to cramp when ever I think of getting rid of one, the Binky. I don't even consider both, heaven forbid. We do know its time, we just aren't ready yet. We, notice, all three of us. We know we are digging the hole deeper and deeper as each day passes. My stomach is now to a complete cramp just talking about it. I know many moms are out there thinking get a grip and a back bone! The time will come, when? Not sure, but it will! Every one already thinks he's that 5 year old kid with a binky because he is so tall. I need a shirt for him that says, "My daddy is 6'5" I'm only 2! Leave me, my mom, and my binky alone"! As you can tell I have a complex. We are getting there trying to limit it to naps and night time... for the most part. The day will come, just not sure when.

The Lord knew exactly what we needed like I said. Our little guy one morning says, "Mommy, no diapers, diapers are for babies!" Well that was it, at 2 1/2 he is potty trained! That was all it took. I think the Lord is blessing us with all other aspects because he knows what is in store with the Binky! He is chuckling up there!

On to the potty!

Potty's, so I have come to the conclusion I have a huge issue.

Germs. I am so not, a germ freak, in fact very far from it! We build up our antibodies daily! But with toilets, yes, I am! Ace is so good on his little potty at home. I disinfect it and clean it. It even plays music to celebrate each use! Its perfect!

My first experience out using a public rest room with Ace was frightening. I kind of flipped out! I'd almost rather him use his clean, fresh diaper! It even crossed my mind to slip one on him, more than once. What to do? I even bought a little fold up seat, then realized I have to carry this sponge bob plastic seat in my purse, first of all. Second, cleaning it every time both sides in public. Well that didn't last too long either. I'm still trying to figure out a solution.

These are my options for now

1. Using an entire roll of toilet paper to cover every porcelain thing Ace could possibly touch. It takes me back to 6th grade toilet papering the mean girls house. And Carry Clorox wipes in my purse and wiping down the whole stall. Not fun!
2. I am thinking of buying little potties for each car to have! This will only work when we have a car. Most of the time we aren't even where we have a car. Can u imagine us going through security at the airport with a music playing potty?
3. Diapers for a little while longer, they are looking good, especially compared to the nasty public bathrooms.

Mom's any advice out there? I know there is always soap and water. Handy travel disinfected wipes. I know we all had to use public bathrooms when we were little too. Shoot, I grew up at the ball park for goodness sake. Still. And to make things worse, we are on the road about 300 if not more days a year. Yuck! As soon as he says, "Mommy, Ace have to go Ti-Ti," my heart drops! Even worse for number 2! This was supposed to be the easy part when he was out of them!

I was excited to get rid of the diaper bag but now my purse looks like a cleaning bucket! So much for my beautiful Chanel purse Casey got me for my birthday. It looks like we will be sprinting to the nearest Neiman's or Gold Star Club at the airport begging for a bathroom when at all possible, with Clorox in hand! I hope the Texas Rangers have clean toilets! :)

I better stop, I'm getting way too carried away! Back to Cheese Puffs & Dora!

Dreaming of clean toilets and no Binky's!
#27

A fun weekend!

2009-01-19T17:04:00.001-08:00

We had a great relaxing weekend! I attended the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation dinner in LA on Saturday. Here is a picture with my dear friends Toni and Meaghan! We had a fun night, supporting a great cause! The highlight seeing my buddy Tommy Lasorda, Go Dodger Blue! After we met up with Natasha Watley, we had a fun night of vegging and visiting! It was a fun girls night out! Casey had a fun filled weekend of hunting in Southern Arizona with a good friend.

Here are a few shots of Ace at the park this weekend. He loves the park, we played, had an otter pop, fed the ducks, and played in the sand. So much fun!

Tomorrow we will be tuned in watching the Inauguration. History! I am encouraged by the hope and pride that Obama has brought to our great nation. My prayers are with him in his new position of President.

We are excited to announce another camp in Ardmore, Oklahoma on May 9 & 10. Registration has begun. We are gearing up for the California camp coming up. Exciting stuff! I hope you have a great week!

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

4 Incredible, Amazing Years!

2009-01-15T21:53:00.000-08:00

January 15, 2005 The Daigle's were established! Its crazy to think 4 years have past! What a magical journey it has been! I am so beyond blessed and grateful for my beloved husband and our greatest gift, our Ace! I could not of dreamed it any better! I thank God for him and these 4 great years! An amazing husband full of love and a fabulous daddy! He is by far the most romantic man I have ever met. How I ended up Ms. Daigle, only the Lord knows. He is the planner, and did he plan. We escaped for a beautiful, peaceful, romantic night at the Montage Hotel. Amazing, it is! We had a lovely dinner, ocean side, which was opened up by the most precious prayer led by him. It was my favorite part and most treasured memory of January 15, 2009!
Here is a quick picture from our dinner celebrating 4 years.

We left the Montage and headed out to a local dive for some down home good ole' eggs, potatoes, and toast. This is definitely more us, for sure. Its fun to do the uppity thing every once in a while (like really once in a while) but we are more just laid back people. We both looked at eachother and grinned at how excited we were just to relax and grub, in our sweats I might add! Here is a photo of us, the real us! :)

We came home in a hurry to get home to Ace! We had a great day of just laying low enjoying each other together as a family. Ace is unbelievable, turning more into Casey by the minute. He was taking his socks off tonight and did it quite easily. He looked up at me and says, "And Ace didn't get frustrated." He is something else. Ace, my dad, and I were taking our usual walk tonight and he says, "Ace, can't keep up, Ace just can't"! Daily he is growing and his little innocent precious mind is a little sponge. There are tons of Whys over and over! He is trying to figure out and explore this world. He is so loving, today when my mom walked in the door he ran up with his arms spread wide rushing to wrap his arms around her. He has given my grandma's, his great-grandmas so much love! He is trying to figure out our names... hilarious. He asked me the other day why does grandpa call grandma, Bev? I said that is her name, and off we went with all our names. It is so fun! He put his foot in his shoe tonight and said, "mommy this is my left foot!" He is blowing us away! Oh, and completely potty trained too! Another big big moment for our little big boy Ace. He reminds us constantly, he is a Big Big Boy! Everyday is a new enjoyable experience!

Four years... Incredible, Amazing!
Dreaming & Always Believing!
#27

Enjoying!

2009-01-13T17:35:00.000-08:00

We've been enjoying! We've been having fun, enjoying our last month before spring training! It's coming fast! Really fast! We went to the LA Zoo with my best friend Toni and her son Easton! Fun stuff! We went to the swap meet! We went to Santa Monica Pier and enjoyed watching a seal a float a boat! It was beautiful! Ace loved the rides & cotton candy!
Here is photo of Casey and Ace at the Swap Meet! We had a blast! Yes, those are iguana's on the loose, hanging out on twigs! Ace was in Awe! Good Times!

I went out to meet my parents in Connecticut at the Mohegan Sun Casino, for a Coach's Convention. Mizuno had me out to sign, I spoke at the clinic, and hung out at the Finch Windmill booth during the baseball show. It was so interesting to see and meet many baseball coach's, most ex-players. The Finch Windmill being a shoulder exerciser, many coach's talked how bad their shoulders are. I think at least 75% of these Coach's spoke of shoulder/arm/elbow problems. Hello, this is why you, your son, your players need the Windmill!!! Its been tough for my dad to break in to the baseball world. The Windmill is mostly sold from word of mouth in baseball, which comes from boys improving and others seeing their improvements.

Yes, my dad invented it, I do have personal interest, but It works! If we could only get it out there. Kids are improving 2-8 mph in 8 weeks on the Windmill! I truly feel kids Need this, baseball Needs this! After hearing and seeing all of this former players talk of arm problems, surgeries, or many even unable lift their arm! It will help, not only for speed & accuracy, more importantly injury prevention and it helps promote equal muscle balance. The only catch is you have to use it to see results! 5 days a week, 3 1/2 minutes a day. It might sound like a commercial, but after this weekend it made me realize dramatically how badly baseball players Need this! I don't want these young guys to grow up having to play catch with only their mom because their dad can't!

I can see the difference in 2 weeks in myself of not being on the Windmill. I carry one with me all over the world, why? Not because I have to but because I know I need it! I know I am 2-4 mph faster when I am on the Windmill! My hope is that baseball players will open up to it and try it! My dad sold a Windmill to 2 roommates in Minor League ball. 7 months later sold another to one of the guys. My dad was wondering what happened to the one he sold them, he said his roommate was traded and he has lost 5 mph since he took the Windmill with him. He was buying one for himself to have. But yet, they didn't want to tell anyone else. And the stories go on and on!

The next day was softball at the convention! Fun, fun! We had an amazing turn out! Over 800 people for the softball show! Mostly softballers themselves! What a blast we had! Thank you for all your support and a wonderful turn out! Lots of fresh faces, excited about our great game! Thank you!

Meanwhile we were out east experiencing the snow, Ace and Casey were on the west enjoying the sunshine! Casey and my Cousin took Ace to a boys night out at the Monster Truck Rally! Front row, they had a blast! Ace came home with 2 Gravedigger's! Good times!!!

We are enjoying our January as we hope you are too!

Our California Softball Camp is growing daily, it will be here before we know it. We are looking forward to it at the end of the month!

Enjoy!
Dream & Believe!
#27

With Your Candle, Go Light Your World!

2009-01-06T08:47:00.000-08:00

This was a song sang at church last Sunday. It totally spoke to me. Everywhere we turn we hear bad stuff. The Economy, Crime, and you know you hear it everyday! No need to continue. I'm sure it helped a little too, that it was sang so beautifully! I walked around yesterday hearing her voice coming out of my mouth.

We can be a positive light! We all have our own candle, take that candle and go light your world! I love it! More and more our world needs light, we are living in a dark world. Yesterday, I heard on the news that yesterday was the Most Stressful Day of the Year! Well good news that day is over now. Let's try to surround ourselves with people and things that make our light brighter! Let's add lighter fluid to our light, more and more!

With Your Candle, Go Light Your World!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Happy New Year!

2008-12-26T20:13:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! We hope you had a joyous Christmas and a so very sweet holiday season! We enjoyed! We are still enjoying! Soaking up family, fun, and lots of food. We have been pretty lazy! Casey has been working out, but for Ace and I nothing but fun! We have enjoyed this off season so very much and are continuing to do so. I am now spending time with my dear grandmother's! Playing cards, games, food, and just enjoying their presence! Enjoying each day, everyday is a gift! This is our plan to bring in the New Years and I can't think of a better way. With family, food and lots of games!
Big news! Casey signed with the Texas Rangers! We are so thrilled about the incredible opportunity! We thank God for opening another door, we are looking forward to see what He has in store for us as Rangers. Casey is super stoked to be close to his family, it will be so very nice having family near. We even had a country Christmas all getting cowboy boots! Ace too, so cute. I love mine, Casey did so good! They have crosses and crystals on them! Casey has really good taste, he is a great shopper! Too good! :) Adorable! We are so grateful and very excited about 2009!
On Christmas Eve! A family shot!

Ace enjoying his four wheeler Santa brought for him! He has been a good boy!

The family with Santa's gift, Ace's own little four wheeler!

Much love & joy!
#27

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

We hope this Holiday brings you many memorable moments and lots of love! This has been an exciting year, full of unforgettable moments. We are so grateful for all the love and support we received this year as we were living our dreams out on the playing fields. Ace was just a trooper along for the ride, spoiled by his USA Aunt's and hanging in the clubhouse with the boys. Ace continues to bring us so much joy and laughter. He is such a goofy, loving child! We are so grateful and blessed. We are soaking up all the time we can together as a family with our families this off season! We look forward to what this next year brings, while we savor every minute as Ace is growing up so quickly!

Lots of love, thanks, & joy,
The Daigle's

We are enjoying this holiday season. I just want to freeze time! Ace is loving the lights and all the decorations. I am reminded of the reason for the season, the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior. This is my favorite time of year! My hope is the spirit of the holidays continues throughout the entire year. Casey and I have really escaped the craziness of the holidays, the shopping and etc. I highly recommend it!!! Its been so nice just to enjoy and be thankful! We are able to be with our loved ones and celebrate!

I'm constantly thinking, praying, and grateful for all our troops over seas this holiday season. Moms, Dads, Uncles, Aunts, Children, so many courageous people are sacrificing so much for us.
I think and pray for all the people that will spend this holiday without a loved one or in a hospital somewhere. On my hearts this season especially are 3 young girls battling horrible diseases Ms. Audra, Ms. Peyton, and Ms Amber Koonce. I want to ask you to please pray for them and their families and the many more who are facing the same battles.

The day after Thanksgiving, I was honored to visit children in a hospital in Chicago. It just broke my heart to see these kids and their families, little kids in hospital gowns connected to machines. Some children alone, little babies curled up on their parents chest escaping the hospital bed and cribs. I just wanted to share a little bit of what hit my heart like a ton of bricks. Thinking and praying for each of these families makes it really easy to escape the presents and scurry of the holidays. Just enjoy, each day is a present, this is why its is called "the present"!

Wishing you lots of warm spirit, love, joy, peace, and the lots celebration in the birth of our Savior the light of our world! Happy Birthday Jesus!

Dreaming & Believing in the season!
#27

Big Boy Week!

2008-12-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

We've had a great week enjoying our few days in one spot. On Sunday one of our dear friends/teammate threw a Wildcat Party! Bear Down! It was a mini reunion that was overdue.
It was so fun seeing each other, our families, and catching up. I miss my Cats! It was so good to see their smiles and get updated on our so called grown up lives. Ha! We are so not grown up! Its fun seeing us all pretend. Ace even has a new buddy, Tanner. He is 1. This was our first time meeting him, what a doll! So fun, being teammates, becoming friends, now even moms! Pretty amazing. I am so proud of these girls and blessed to call them friends. I only wish we lived closer and saw each other more. Here some shots of our fun!

Look at our little ham!
The Cats!
My mama, Ace, and I!

We had a big boy moment! Ace 2 days ago pooed in the potty!!! So out the door we went to go get Ace big boy underwear, he chose Diego. Oh, and a toy in celebration, power tools! Here we go... another chapter. We took Ace to the zoo today, he had a blast. His favorite was the horse, of all things. I am trying to freeze time as the holidays are coming so quickly. It is my favorite time of the year. Sweats, slippers, and hot chocolate. I love it! I love the lights, I love the decorations, I just want it to be Christmas forever! I love the sound, taste, and smell of it, I don't want it to end.

Please don't let the craziness of the holidays put a damper on this special time of year! Try to sit back, sip the warmth, be cozy, and enjoy! I'm trying, let's try together. I'm looking for some good recipes too, it would be fun if you all would share your favorite holiday recipe! I will come up with one too!

Blessings, love, & holiday cheer!
#27

Chicago Thanksgiving!

2008-11-29T09:17:00.001-08:00

We had a blast in Chicago for Thanksgiving! Luckily the weather wasn't too cold. The parade was a lot of fun, the streets were packed with people all bundled up. Casey's sister Dee Dee and our nephew Brock from Louisiana met us for the fun! Ace loved it which made our Thanksgiving and trip well worth it. He was in awe of all the floats, horses, balloons, bands, and even the Poo crew that followed the horses and donkeys. It was great to be back in Bandit Country. We enjoyed Italian Beef Sandwiches, my favorite.

Flying back I looked down at Ace while he was napping on the plane and was blown away how big he has gotten. He took up 2 whole seats as he was stretched out in comfort. It was just yesterday as we were jetting around on planes and he fit in my lap and on my chest. Remembering our trip back from China in 2006 with my mom as he fit perfectly across the seat in the plane. Now he is reaching into his third seat. My little baby is a little boy. As I look over he is slurping up his fruit loops holding over all by himself. He is becoming more and more independent. I am still reminded he is still little at times. I walked into the family room the other day as he had went to the fridge got a gallon of milk out and filled his cup and overflowed making a puddle on the coffee table. He replied, I wanted some milk, mommy with a concerned grin! My dad then replied, at least he made it into his cup he was right on! I couldn't help but smile. We are enjoying this ride! He is such a goofy kid, he is so much fun! The other night we were rocking out to Dancing With the Stars. He was going crazy, dancing like a wild man. It was so fun. When we got home from Chicago he was telling Grandma and Grandpa he rode in a lemon, too cute. A limo, his lemon! :)
Enjoying and thankful for every minute!
#27

OK... Here are a few!

2008-11-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

You caught me being lazy, you asked for some pictures and here they are! We are headed out to Chicago! Wishing we were with our families... but grateful to be with our unit Casey, Ace and I!
Honored to be a part of the parade this holiday season!
I wish you all a Happy Happy Thanksgiving! I am so grateful for all the many blessings we have been blessed with. We thank the Lord, our families, friends and so many more! May you enjoy this so very sweet holiday with yours!
Forever grateful, beyond explanation!
#27

In Awe!

2008-11-23T22:09:00.000-08:00

Well I have to start by telling of our fantasy experience at the CMA's! Amazing! Amazing! We were so blessed, lucky, happy, grateful, and so much more. In Awe! Growing up with my mom being a huge Country music fan, I too am a huge fan! Even married a southern man, with an accent too! :) Casey and I were really just in awe with big grins as though we were back in Jr. High!
Trace Adkins and his wife Rhonda were so very generous and beyond, incredible hosts! We are indebted to them for this incredible experience. We were able to hang on Trace's tour bus for the night, met his management and band. Trace and Rhonda let us follow along like their puppy dogs. They took us everywhere, it was too sweet! We went to rehearsals and watched Kenny Chesney and Trace perform! Wow! Even able to snag some pictures with Taylor Swift and many more backstage. They took such great care of us, grubbed on TGIFridays appetizers before the big show, enjoying the company! Trace is so very humble, a good ole country boy! Casey and I went over right before the show... no idea where our tickets were. Trace's Manager escorted us closer and closer to the stage, yes to the 5Th row! In Awe! Randy Travis was seated in front of us (I'm a big fan of his!), and right behind us was Kidd Rock. Pretty incredible. One amazing performance after another! I'm not going to lie when we sat down I was filled with just complete joy and gratefulness, tears started to overflow. Casey was so sweet, he just grabbed my leg and kissed my forehead. He completely understood me with no words spoken. We were in awe! Trace and Rhonda, of course grabbed us to go backstage with them before Trace performed. They were so very kind and thoughtful! Here we were hanging out with Kenny Chesney, Kidd Rock, and more backstage. Everyone was so so sweet! Kenny's dad along with Kidd Rock, admitted they were softball fans! Who would've ever imagined. They were legit too, going back to my Wildcat days and talking baseball with Casey. We had a blast! It was so refreshing to see how laid back the Country scene is. Everyone was so sweet and really just chill. It made me even that much more of a fan. We ended the night with a few parties, of course right behind the Adkins! I can not thank them enough for their graciousness! Casey and I woke up the next morning laughing, saying to each other, "No way, no stinkin' way!" In Awe!

The next night I had the honor of attending a charity event honoring the Quincy Jones Foundation in NY hosted by Audemars Piguet. Another incredible night! In awe! They honored Dr. Jos Antonio Abreu and Maestro Gustavo Dudamel of Venezuelas El Sistema Program with the Q prize for this year. It is an outreach program that uses Classical Music to promote health and well-being in Venezuela. So many kids, thousands, have been touched and given an opportunity through this program. Siedah Garrett rocked the house with, "Man In the Mirror", Goldie Hawn was dancing up a storm! Michael McDonald performed along with an incredible closing jam session with Wycleaf Jean, again in awe! It was a great evening, closed with an intimate dinner with Audemars Piguets Francois-Henry Bennahmias, Quincy and their guests. So very inspiring, just in awe.

Slept for about an hour, and headed out on a 5 o'clock am flight out to Louisiana! Landed and headed straight out to the softball field for a day of setting up for camp. We had a great turnout for camp, its always nice to do in your "backyard"! Sulphur has been so supportive of softball and our camps. Its great to be able to do events locally. We enjoyed Boudain Balls, Deer Jerky, Pickled Quail eggs, and all the other yummy local food we are spoiled while we set up! Yes, I am a southern girl at heart. I enjoy it all! We had a great crew out to help Bustos, Kelly K, Mac V, Toni M, Jaime Clark, and Caitlin Lowe. I'm so grateful they make it happen. Along with McNeese University who helped, Thank you!
I was introduced and honored to meet Amber Kuntz on Saturday at camp, a local young lady who is 23. Amber is battling Lou Gehrig's Disease. Amber was a state champ softball pitcher for Sulphur High School just a couple of years ago. I heard about Amber a couple of months ago through our Aunt and was so happy to get to meet her. I immediately was drawn to her, she had this glow, this incredible spirit! I was so honored to be able to chat with her during our quick lunch at camp. She was and is God sent. She spoke of such peace and confidence. As my eyes just filled with tears hearing her so humbly speak. I was, In Awe. In awe, doesn't even do it justice. Just a few of her comments, "I have never been happier in my whole life!" "God has blessed me in so many ways!" "This is a gift, it is all a gift." Here is Amber a beautiful 23 year old girl now accepting the help of a wheel chair, focusing, and working hard to get out each sentence she speaks. We shared a few softball childhood memories, our dads coaching us, and how softball is so much more than a sport. She left down the stairs with the help of her parents mom on one side and her dad on the other. I couldn't hold myself together, I just bawled. Amber blew me away with her courage, strength, and most importantly her faith! She inspired me to be more, give more, and do more. I invited her back on Sunday and asked her to speak if she wouldn't mind. Well sure enough, with her mom her rock, pushing her wheel chair out to home plate she spoke to all 340 campers and their families. She was full of grace, passion, and spoke so eloquently. She touched everyone. Many tears, her faith and spirit are overwhelming. It's so hard not to fill with anger, Lord, why? Then you see her, her faith and peace that just blows you away. She is living it, she is such an example, shes allowing this/Him to touch so many lives. She spoke of making the most of it, appreciating your parents, the lessons that softball teaches you and how it will help you prepare for life, and so much more. She is a gift, and what a gift it was to get to know her and have her speak at camp. Thank you Amber!
I was again honored to have lunch with Amber again this week on Wednesday. She is the real deal, walking the walk, talking the talk. She continued to blow me away. She even said, "I am unworthy to have this disease." "He chose me, me to use." I'm so grateful I got the opportunity to meet Amber and to hear and see her faith. Since our first introduction she has been in my heart and on my mind. She gave me a bracelet from her wrist that was given to her with the serenity prayer on it, "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage (in bold) to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference." I was so honored and humbled to accept her bracelet. Here, Amber is giving me courage and sharing her faith and strength. She just continues to give. Her mom replies with, "That's Amber." I have worn it since... Courage. I want Amber's courage, her faith, she is such a great example for all. I felt compelled to share Amber with you and maybe you too can be touched by Amber. Her reply would be, its not me its Him! It is indeed Him living in her. She has touched my life in a very special way. In Complete Awe!

Yesterday I was in Chicago, I flew out for a signing. It was fun being back in Bandits colors and seeing Bandit fans. I'm looking forward to the summer and getting back on the field.

I am honored to be the Grand Marshal of the McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade in Chicago this Thursday! Wow! I have to admit, I really like parades. One of my favorite childhood memories is watching them with my mom lying on the couch. I can't wait to experience it with Ace and our family this Thanksgiving. I'm so thankful! It will air on WGN if you are up that early to catch the start! :)

Thankfully,
Dreaming & Believing,
#27

Still going!

2008-11-09T19:25:00.000-08:00

Thanks for sharing your Halloween stories! Its fun to hear how your day was, along with family traditions and such. Please keep sharing!

We had a fun one. Ace ended up as a USA Basketball player. He was not having the idea of a costume, my hope was him seeing his cousins to maybe get him motivated to indulge in a costume. He was a baseball head guy for about a total of 2 minutes! My dad has this mask that is a baseball head, he wore it but it didn't last long. Then he moved onto or into a mask and cape which was an extra/spare from his cousins car. Maybe 4 minutes he was a super hero with of course his blankie which added more character to his super heroness! So before we headed out on our trick or treating adventure I rummaged through his suitcase looking for his USA Finch replica jersey, at least he could be a baseball/softball player, I was thinking in my head. As Casey was yelling, "NO" into the room, he read my mind! I then pulled out this little All-American basketball jersey set! Perfect! I found some high socks managed to put on, some shoes and we were out the door chasing bat man and a little chili pepper (his cousins)!
Not too creative but it did the trick! We scored lots of candy, a popcorn ball, an otter pop, playdoh, and even a king size bag of skittles from Grandma! We did it! Halloween ended on a sugar high!

We had a great but busy last week! Its nice to know that for a few days we are in one place. Last weekend I flew out to DC for a public signing. As I headed out of the hotel the driver handed me the flier for the event. There was Pete Rose, Cal Ripken Jr, and many many more hall of famers from baseball and football also attending the signing. I was in awe! How in the world did I get here? There was my picture along side Cal's. Just crazy, a softball player. I had a little bit of a moment, on the way there. My dad had looked up to and watched many of these guys! I looked up to them, now I am sitting beside them as people line up ever so long for our autographs. A softball player, little sister, dreaming of being a Dodger one day, just amazing. It brought tears to my eyes. Just thinking how far women in sport have come, thanks to the many before us. We had a great turn out. I had to pinch myself as I look to my right and then my left, as Pete Rose leaned over and sent me a wave! This is more than I possibly ever could of imagined, let alone dreamt of! The sky is truly the limit. Very empowering, overfilled with gratitude, humbling, and an incredible day. The Lord continues to amaze!

I was able to squeeze in a pitching demonstration and Q&A for about 25 girls a couple minutes from the signing. A sweet softball family owns it, it was a great indoor facility! I had a good time hanging out talking pitching and softball. It was a fun short but long trip!

Headed back to see Casey and Ace for a day I tried to soak in as much as possible of them. Then headed out to Indianapolis for a Play Ball Indiana Luncheon for RBI, Reviving Baseball in the Inner cities. I love social events and having the opportunity to interact with different people from all over. This program creates opportunity and gives kids the ability to play baseball and softball. They don't have to pay to play. They have games and tournaments, even an opportunity to go the championships! Quite fun! It was awesome to hear stories of how RBI has touched so many young boys and girls across the nation. I was the speaker for the luncheon... the not so fun part. I am getting a little better or used to it. To be honest, I still get nervous speaking in front of crowds, I guess its a good nervousness. I've got to the point where a few words are OK but still the key note speaking part, honestly it still makes my heart race. Its like I'm back at the Olympics trying to get those first pitch nerves out, and after usually that first pitch it goes away. This is a little different, it doesn't go away. I enjoy it in a weird way, its living out of my comfort zone. Its good to live outside your box every once in awhile, even if your heart does race. So I keep telling myself.

After the luncheon, I bagged up my stilettos and exchanged them for my cleats, pulled up my hair, and headed out to the field. My comfort zone. We put together a little clinic/demo/Q&A for RBI/Play Ball Indianapolis. We had a great group. We were a little rushed but it was great to get out on the field and share our passion and love for the game with the girls! It was a fun day, ending in comfort!

Thursday, I was able to sneak in dinner with a friend, her son, and her mom! Ace and my mom went too! It was such a great night! We were roommates in college, it felt like we were still living as Wildcats! It was fun to catch up, laugh, eat, shop, and let the boys play. These are the things I wish we could do more of.

Friday, I had a photo shoot with Gogie! Gogie is a hat company, dedicated to and for women. They are out of this world. Short billed, they carry petite, light weight, super cute styles, just right for us ladies. I'm so incredibly ecstatic, they are designing 3 maybe 4 "Finch" hats and headbands with my logo and all. I just received some prototypes, I was smiling from ear to ear. Absolutely awesome. We are so excited about the partnership, they are a great company and great to work with. We will hopefully have the hats online soon. For those of you going to Louisiana Camp you will have first dibs! They will be at in our gift shop this weekend!

We are relaxing enjoying family and one another. Ace is just too stinkin' adorable, full of it but adorable. I am having so much fun with him, his little personality is so goofy! I can't get enough!

We are so honored and excited to go the CMA's!!! Yes, the CMA's!!! We are huge country music fans and really stoked. I'm filled with that 12 year old excitement, just giddy! Anxiously awaiting so much talent, Nashville, the night, it all! I found a cute black dress, its sweetheart cut on top, on the shorter side, with ruffles on the skirt. I was able to borrow an incredible belt buckle from a family friend that I will be sporting with great pride. I will post a picture from the night, maybe a few. Casey is going to look gorgeous! Boots, suit, tall, dark, and of course handsome! Trace and his wife have so graciously invited Casey and I! I can't wait to tell you all about it!

Living a dreamy life no doubt about it!
#27

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

I hope you all have a very safe and happy Halloween! We'll see if we can get Ace to dress up? Who knows? Its not looking to good as of now! He has the "Trick or Treat" down though!

First, I have to comment on being a "trouble maker," my inbox, voice mail, and text messaging has been blowing up with messages regarding the list that China came out with calling it the "troublemaker watch list." There were 9 of us on in from the US for the Olympics. The reason I believe for being on this list is because we are members of "Team Darfur." A great movement supporting human rights and a betterment of life! I think its a bit odd for it to be coming out now. Not much trouble was caused obviously. I wish my right arm could've caused a little more trouble on the playing field but that was it for us and trouble while we were in China.

Lots of frequent flier miles registering here.
Its been a crazy week! 2 trips to NY! The first was for Foot Locker's Sneakerball, supporting the Negro Scholarship Fund. It was a blast! Natasha Watley and I went, we had a great time! Yep, we sported our Mizuno's with our formal dresses! It was a bit odd feeling, and we sure got some looks heading out of the hotel! We had fun earlier in the day shopping, brunch, hair, & make up. We made the most out of our 20 hours in NYC. I even scored 2 auction items, a Nolan Ryan autographed picture for Casey (he's a big fan) and airline tickets! We laughed the night away in our sneaks, yes I had some pink in mine!From there we headed to LA for the Breeder's Cup. Another fun weekend! We went to the kick off party in LA the night before and saw Maroon 5 perform. It was nice getting our feet wet into the horse racing scene before the actual races. It was nice to have a night out for Casey and I. We learned a lot about the equestrian world and enjoyed the ambiance & entertainment. We had a blast at the races! Ace was in Awe! He even fed a horse a peppermint! My family and friends enjoyed a day at Santa Anita, it was beautiful! We were grateful for the invite.

The next day I had the honor of dunking Hulk Hogan and Warren Sapp on Ellen. We had a blast, they were troopers. We helped Ellen raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness month. A great cause and one close to my heart. The guys were so fun, Warren was on cloud 9 dancing away! He says he absolutely loves it! The Hulk let me in on his days at the ball park! He actually pitched in the Little League World Series, bet you didn't know that. A fun fact!

I headed out to Chicago after the weekend for an appearance with Dermabond. It was a National Convention for Emergency Rescue & EMT's. I had a good time, meeting new people, in not quite the usual place for an appearance from a softballer. It was interesting to see all the vendors and mingle! The highlight was meeting a military Sgt, who was so very excited to see and hold the Olympic Medals. His reaction was really great! I was in awe of his badges and full of gratitude for his service.

Came back to LA to meet up with Ace and Casey for a couple of hours before heading out to NY. I attended an event for Weplay, an online social network. (You guys should check it out weplay.com its amazing!) I was in good company with investors, Summer Sanders & Shawn Alexander. It was a very cozy yet elegant evening.

I just got back from a short trip out to Tucson. Finally, I was able to swap out some clothes. My winter jacket was a hoodie and quite pathetic in NY! I was able to grab some boots, warmer clothes, and a few jackets! I attended the grand opening of a Cinemark Theatre in Oro Valley. It was a great event, the Theatre is beautiful, it was nice to be among the Arizona community and be home!

I hope you have a great Halloween!!! I would love to hear what you dressed up as!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Ellen & Breeders Cup!

2008-10-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

Check out Ellen today and Monday!!! More dunking! :)

We are heading out to the Breeders Cup at Santa Anita Race Track today! It will air on ESPN 2! Check it out today! I can't wait! Bustos and I and other female Olympians have the honor of being in the winners circle! Ace is going to love it! I will let you know how it goes!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Little Rock was Rockin'!!!!

2008-10-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Little Rock, Arkansas
Our Incredible Coaches
Mac Vandergeest, Toni Mascarenas, Caitlin Lowe, Andrea Duran, Kelly Kretchmen, Bustos

We had a blast in Little Rock, Arkansas! What a great time! The girls were such a great group! We were hosted by the "Battin' Babes" and the "Arkansas Batbusters"! What a fun time we had with them! We have grown relationships with them, being our third camp that they have either attended or hosted! We had a great dinner on Friday packed with over 500 people and finger lickin' BBQ! I love the south! Such sweet people & always great food! Bustos even had her own bat boy for the entire weekend! His dad dared the little brother and sure enough Bustos excepted. I don't think he left her side, it was really cute!

The University of Arkansas at Monticello helped us out this weekend for camp!

Bustos dropping Bombs!

Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, it did! Mr. Trace Atkins stopped by on Sunday during the camp! What a special treat for the girls!!! And us too of course! I was a fan before the Apprentice and even more so now after getting to know him and his sweet generous family! He made 400 girls giddy getting on the mike and I think all of their parents too! We were so delighted to have him! We auctioned off the glove I wore for the pitching demo, we both signed it and was able to donate to his charity! FAAN! Helping young kids with severe allergies! What an incredible day! Thank you Trace!

On cloud 9, we floated up to New York for the Women's Sports Foundation Dinner. They were gracious enough to invite our entire team to the event! It was so fun being a team together! I miss my girls! Monday we were able to continue floating, around NY on a dinner cruise. Tuesday we attended the Gala at the Waldorf, as always an inspiring amazing night. It always seems surreal to be in the presence of Billy Jean King and all the other amazing female athletes past and present! Its pretty incredible to see the past athletes and how they continue to succeed off the court and in the real world. The fun just continued! I want to thank all the many sponsors who came out and supported the Women's Sports Foundation, it continues to open doors and empower women and young girls!

We are now back on the bayou in Louisiana! Enjoying our southern roots, family, and friends. Casey has been non stop working the cows, fishing, clearing up the pond, and more. He is trying to soak it up as much as possible. Ace is loving the open air, animals, and rice & gravy! I'm along for the fun, soaking it all up too! Enjoying the golf cart rides and watching the boys have a blast!
Enjoying our family we don't get to see too much of! It's so cute to see the excitement of Sulphur, La for the camp coming up! The Sheriff's Department are so sweet, ready for our arrival. Its really fun being part of a small town and all the excitement for the football games and local news!

Enjoying a few days of down time!
#27

Ohio to Ellen!

2008-10-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hey! We had a blast in Ohio! We were able to meet so many great people. It was a good weekend, Berg even came out and joined us for Sunday. Crystl has her own travel ball organization out here the Bustos Ultimates. How cool is that? They were really sweet, we had a good time. They even took us out to play Cornhole. Oh my! What a game. We had so much fun. Its huge out here. Its a slanted box with a hole on top. You have to throw a bag of corn in it for 3 points or 1 point if it lands on top. We dominated! Jenny, Aimee, and Military Mary introduced us to this fun game. Im so stinkin competitive, we were challenging everyone. It even led to me throwing them at Bustos! We had fun. We were spoiled with cookies, deer jerky, and even hometown hero hall of famer George Foster stopped by to say hello. Its a lot of fun traveling and meeting so many great people. Bustos extended family is out here and it was fun to finlly meet them and experience her Ohio group! Thanks for having me!

Tomorrow tune in to Ellen, a change of plans I am headed to LA to appear on Ellen! So much fun! She is so funny, I am really excited to meet her.

I was informed today Ace now has a football stance! Too cute. He says hike and runs! He is growing up so fast. I miss my guys! They are fishing & hunting having a ball in cajun country! I can't wait to join them!

Dreaming & Believing
#27

On the go!

2008-10-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

We hopped on a plane and headed out to Arizona for 36 hours. Just crazy. We basically came here to catch our next flights out! We are unpacking, dropping stuff off, and repacking! The story of our life. Yes, we wear the same things pretty much over and over. Why pack anything other than your favorite outfits, right? Its hilarious, I really have no idea what my closet consists of I do know that there is no more room in it however. Many times I look to the suitcase only to find non matching stuff, what are you going to do? This is my excuse for my lack of style at times and some times non matching shoes! :) Casey constantly is asking if I'm wearing holes in the armpits of my clothes. We did try to go to shopping last week in LA, it was the usual! Leaving with nothing but a good lunch and Ace a few items! I did get a T-shirt, just what I needed another T-shirt. However, I am quite excited to swap out my wardrobe. I even packed my cowboy boots this time, look out. We'll see if I actually wear them. I tend to avoid the dressy clothes even though they are in my bag! Yes, cowboy boots are dressy, for me! Last night I was scattering through trying to find a dress for the Women's Sports Foundation Dinner. I was excited to find one, we'll see if it's still the one when I get there. We have quite a bit coming up.

I'm headed out to Ohio to do a clinic with Crystl Bustos for the weekend. I owed her at least this, she helps me out with all of our camps. I'm excited to get to meet more future champions and hang out with Crystl. Then from there to DC! I will be joining other Olympians visiting our veteran troops on Monday and then joining a larger group of the 08' Olympians for a celebration at the White House. It should be a fun couple of days!

We are gearing up for our Arkansas camp, we just closed it today. We are full unfortunately and fortunately!

Fun stuff ahead!

I hope you all are enjoying baseball playoffs! I am! I am a huge baseball fan, even Casey makes fun of me. I'm so sad when baseball season is over! I just enjoy the game and having the option to watch it and the highlights. I'm excited to see the Angels and Dodgers both playing in October! I have to admit I was born and raised a Dodger fan, but I do still cheer for the Angels being from so cal! Its so fun to see grown men so excited to compete and the intensity of post season. Watching the Angels, Red Sox game last night, I was in awe of the crowd and atmosphere! The pitching dominated. How about Jason Bay? I love it. Casey is somewhat tuned in, he says he's watched over 100 games this season, its really the last thing he wants to do. I completely understand. As you can tell I rarely win control of the remote. I am however enjoying postseason baseball, when I get the chance. Go LA!

Well better get back to packing!

Dream & Believe!
#27

Sac Camp Photos!

2008-09-28T10:17:00.001-07:00

I'm such a blessed girl!

My dad Doug doing a Finch Windmill Demo.

Heading into the racing dive!

All the campers! Thanks for a great weekend!

I did it!

2008-09-26T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today I did it! I put my running shoes on and made it out for a run! Only after trying to get on my parents elliptical and not knowing how to start it up! Yes, I did petal but there was no power! Checked the plug. I smiled and thought see its not time yet! Thank you Lord!... No, it really is time and I did it! My pants are getting a little more snug, my shirts a little too tight around the mid section, and well I'm finding myself just a bit uncomfortable! So its time! Especially after the Pink's chili hot dog and chili cheese fries from the fair yesterday! Yep, I might have well eaten a bucket of lard! A churro, icee, and then the Pink's stop! Ugh, its time!

It was a struggle! My ipod made it a little bit easier pushing through. I left the house at 2:24 and purposely went a long way with no short cuts! A one way jog, knowing I couldn't just say, "oh that's enough"! I have to admit, I felt way out of shape and a bit old! I know 28 is not old but I felt old! That is what taking a month off has made me feel. I can't help but check myself out as I ran past a house with an enormous window. Come on we all do it! Well only to laugh hysterically at myself, watching me run! Its proven, I'm old! I don't have the young spurt of energy, the strut, you know what I'm talking about! I was dragging, dragging bad! Well its gone! The only thing athletic about my jog was well my out fit! So I continued jogging giggling inside about how I am old and my running proves it! Hopefully it will come back in a couple of weeks! I'm praying! Before I had my teammates, opponents, coaches, and the Olympics! Now its just me against ??? Well myself! Or the music! Britney?

I walked in after my run and my mom looked at me so very oddly and even chuckled a bit. I was the color of a tomato! Thinking I had ran at least 50 minutes and 5 miles, trying to count the number of songs trying to figure out how long I had been running. Well I had myself convinced it was at least 50 minutes! Falling to the ground in exhaustion then again busting up looking at the clock and seeing it had only been 30 minutes! I'm still laughing at myself!

So baby steps! Baby steps! I will get there! I miss sweating and being exhausted! Its sad when you are trying to convince yourself that taking Ace to the fair is a workout! Come on Olympian, competitor, #27, lets go! So today was a start!

We did take Ace to the fair yesterday, and it did count as my workout! Thanks very much! :)
It was a warm one! Its enormous! So much fun! We were overwhelmed! Rides, food, life size stuffed animals everywhere, cows, pig races, pony ride, monster truck rides, petting zoo, and yes we did it all! Everything! We were that family that left the fair with 3 helicopters, a stuffed car, 2 turkey legs the size of monster trucks, a lemonade or 4, our stroller was overflowing! Oh, and 2 candied apples! And left $50 dollars at the motorcycle shoot out! Casey was convinced he could win it! Well at least it was one thing we did leave with out, a motorcycle! And for the record he doesn't even like motorcycles! We were had, but its the fair right! We lived it up! We had a blast! It was a fun day, and not too shabby of a workout! :)

Dreaming & Believing!
#27

Camp!

2008-09-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend in Sacramento! Camp weekends are always completely nuts for us and for the host but we did it! It was a huge success! The girls were so excited and looked like they had a blast! Close to 400 campers! It just proves how much our sport has grown! Completely awesome! The Monarch's who hosted us were superb! They put so much time and hard work into making it such a great weekend! The field was pretty spectacular, we were the first to use it! It was at Vista Del Lago High School. Crystl Bustos hit the first home run out the park, she signed the ball and the school is going to put it in their hall of fame! The girls went crazy to see Bustos hit, and boy did she put on a show! I'm so blessed to have such great crew come in to help us out. Plus its fun seeing them all and catching up, a little reunion for us. We met so many sweet people this weekend, we truly enjoyed it and the environment. Its pretty funny how I'm unable to sleep before our camps, like its the night before a game day or something! Its a good nervous, we want it to go just perfectly for the girls! So the last two days have been recovery days. When we left there were lots of young girls smiling wishing for a day 3, so it was a success.

A few highlights of the weekend were heading over to a young softballer's elementary school on friday and joining her for lunch! She had a dream and it was pretty neat to make it a reality for her! She was so very sweet, with an amazing family. Another being a young girl walking up to me before taking a photo with me anxiously letting me know how she couldn't sleep at all last night! Another camper arrived on Sunday and let Coach Toni know how she used what she learned in the infield at her game last night and was so very excited! She was able to make the play! Another a young girl coming all the way from Illinois to join us in Sacramento, our furthest camper. At pitching, seeing a girls face light up so very bright she got it, she understood it and could feel it! Another young girl coming up to me and telling me to remember her because one day she will be on Team USA! Another camper asked if she could catch for me, we were able to pull that one off too! All these many highlights of an incredible weekend. This makes all the sleepless nights well worth it! This is what it is all about! We can't wait to do it again! Next stop, Little Rock, Arkansas!

Oh and one more... its the cutest thing to see all these young girls just as excited to see Ace! Oooing & Aweing! So very cute! Oh and for Casey too! :) Just adorable hearing how hot my husband is from 12 year olds!

We are going to be spending some time here in So Cal, this off season. It figures just as we get ourselves unpacked in AZ, right? The Lord is working and we are trying to follow! The Lord has opened an incredible opportunity for Casey to train down here with one of the best in baseball. I'm so very happy for Casey to be doing this. He really has never spent an off season training and preparing fully! This will be so very good for him to have complete coaching & training heading into next season. Its pretty amazing, by the grace of God how far Casey has gotten with just raw talent, to the Big Leagues! I've never seen Casey so excited about pitching as he was when he came back from his first day training. He said they were able to do things that he has been trying to do for years. Thank you Lord, for giving us this opportunity! From a golf tournament, to generous golf pros, to this Coach in a matter of 3 days. Amen! Obviously first and foremost I am thrilled for Casey and at the same time I have to admit it will fun being "home"!

I was able to catch up with a BFF Toni and her adorable little, big boy! Really big! He's six, a big six! Ace and Easton her son had so much fun running around playing hard! Who would've thought, both moms! From high school travelball, to roommates at Arizona, now moms! So very fun! Yet we are still the same as we were 12 years ago running around the mall but this time chasing mostly Ace but both our boys. It was a fun day.

I'm still trying to get to the gym, haven't made it yet. This is my week though, I'm feeling it!

Ace is great, he is in this running mode. He tells me he is running the bases and just runs and runs. Every once is a while he will drop in a slide and yell safe! It's quite adorable. He is bull legged, like his daddy was, and I hear that means he will be a good runner. A track coach told me that at the Olympic Training Center when he saw Ace, he said he will be a good runner! I reply a 6' 6" white boy, a good runner? Only time will tell! :) Thank the Lord they are straightening out quite well. My fear was he would have to have them set like Casey had to do. It looks like that Coach knew what he was saying because he is running everywhere and running good!

I was able to keep my cooking going, last night vegetable soup! Casey has been requesting it since we got here from my mom! Second best, Casey was happy! Ace too as he kept shouting, "soup, soup, Ace wants some soup!" Smiles all around!

Still dreaming & believing!
#27

Enjoying the SWEETNESS of Life! By: Jennie Finch

Enjoying the Sweetness of Life has moved!

Day #6 & #7 in Caracas & eating Venezuelan Style!

Day #4 & #5 at World's

Day #3

Day #2 here in Venezuela

Long Over Due

JF Softball Camping in Ardmore, OK this Wkd!

A list of 27 for my MOM!

New Jersey to Long Island

A Magical Spring

Capitol Hill supporting Physical Education

Each Minute, Each Breath, A Gift!

Jeremiah 29:11 11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Sweet Precious Little Layla Grace

http://tinyurl.com/ydqef26

Less Shady Gray!

U-S-A!!!!!

Victory & Heartache! Super Bowl Recap

New York, New York!

Its the LITTLE Things!

USA Tryouts 2010

Lifting eachother up!

Wishing all a very blessed Christmas & an incredible 2010

Rochester, MN!

JF Softball Academy Extravaganza!

West Coast Swing

Binghamton, NY

Fighting the Funk!

My Golden Girls

Fear vs Faith

Happy Halloween!

On the East Coast, although rooting West Coast! Go Dodgers, Go Angels!

Off Season!

Virginia Camp

Tasting the Off Season!

Bandits Big Win Secures 1st in NPF League Play!

Back to the Bandits!

USA 2-0!

Good day for USA!

Day 2 in Japan

Day 1 in Japan

Adventure to Japan, We Made it!

All Star Break, World Cup, and Round Rock!

Canada Cup!

Happy "late" Father's Day!

Perfect, Only from HIM!

Headed to USA Try Outs

Gotta love this game!

Opening Day for the Bandits!

Summer & Softball

Oklahoma Camp & Mother's Day!

Falling On My Knees...

Bye Bye Binky!

The Express, Round Rock, Turning 3, & more!

Our Bull Rider!

Enjoying our time together!

Baseball...

St. Patti's Day Fun!

Thankful!

Fun Stuff!!!

Spring at the Ball Park

Preschool & Spring Training Begins!

Bull Riding & Preschool

Our family Fishing Trip!

Happy Valentine's Week!

A Great Week!

So Cal Camp

Busy Weekend!

Potties, Binky's, & Blankie's

A fun weekend!

4 Incredible, Amazing Years!

Enjoying!

With Your Candle, Go Light Your World!

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

Big Boy Week!

Chicago Thanksgiving!

OK... Here are a few!

In Awe!

Jeremiah 29:11 ¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.