Timeless: Recollections of Family and America's Pasttime

America s pastime. The game of baseball has long been associated with tradition and family and things that are good. These traits are tied to baseball through a variety of factors, not the least of which include the following facts: Baseball has provided an opportunity for many men without means to succeed, from the Italian and Irish immigrants of the early 20th century to the Negro Leagues of our nation s more recent history and even today s contingent of foreign players. The game provided a diversion and boost as it was played during both World Wars at the behest of Presidents Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt who believed it was necessary the game continue for the country s morale during such difficult times. Countless movies have romanticized the game, and fostered the sports reputation, ranging from the father and son angle in the Field of Dreams to the heroics played out in The Natural. And, while baseball has its dark past, and present, it remains healthy. This book is for everyone who appreciates baseballs slower pace and its unique ability to combine physical attributes with mental acumen, and those that appreciate how the game integrates teamwork with the one-on-one showdown between hitter and pitcher. It is for every person who dreamed about making The Show someday, and continued to fantasize about it well after they committed their talents to their true calling. It is for every person for whom Opening Day is a holiday, and for the persons whose daily attitude and livelihood is impacted by how their favorite team has fared. This book is for the baseball fan that has been in and out of love. For the fan who has shared moments, both precious and heartbreaking, with family and loved ones. It is for the person who has made mistakes and attempted to overcome them. And for the fan whose passion for baseball has somehow interrelated with all of these moments. This book includes several stories of one baseball fan from the age of seven until the age of 38. It details growing up in a household where three brothers made baseball a priority. It recollects stories from playing days, coaching days, and days of being a fan. This story combines the game of baseball with stories about life, family, and love; stories about being a child, a grandchild, a parent, a husband, and a brother; and with social commentary reflecting on past events made possible by a great game.