Here's to more adventures to come!
Gertie here! After a whirlwind tour of all 32 Brewster Baseball Association stadiums, I’ve gathered my thoughts and notes from the margins of my trusty travel notebook to share some of the most memorable moments from our incredible journey. Buckle up for a nostalgic ride through our top highlights!
Phoenix Talons (Denny's Paul D. Lunn Memorial Stadium Presented By Subaru)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Denied entry? Not on our watch!"
**Highlight:** Our grand entrance here is one for the ages. After being denied entry to the World's Largest Denny's, we stole a Subaru and crashed through the front. Then we took over the PA system and played Hootie & the Blowfish’s "Only Wanna Be With You." It was the perfect mix of rebellion and fun.
Las Vegas Hustlers (Palace Station Ballpark & Casino)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Matt knows how to spoil his guests!"
**Highlight:** GM Matt Rectenwald treated us like queens, putting us up in a top-floor hotel and showering us with Hustlers swag. Reconnecting with former Madison closer Todd Stone was a delight, especially hearing him reminisce about his rookie year and how we influenced him.
Hawaii Tropics (‘Iolani Palace)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Aloha vibes and helicopter rides!"
**Highlight:** The warm Hawaiian welcome with leis and Brawndo drinks was unforgettable. The private helicopter tours showed us the breathtaking beauty of the islands. Our constant inquiries about visiting Magnum PI’s place kept us laughing throughout the trip.
Mexico City Aztecs (Ullamaliztli Field)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Best banana bread ever…and a hilarious mishap!"
**Highlight:** GM Fred Holmes treated us to the best banana bread in the BBA. Despite our bout of Montezuma’s Revenge, we had a blast, embracing the local culture and cuisine. The laughter that ensued made it a trip to remember.
Bikini Krill (Forever Field)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Betty’s book stole the show!"
**Highlight:** Meeting GM Ron Collins and sharing Betty’s book manuscript was a standout moment. Ron’s heartfelt reaction and the charm of the island made it a perfect final stop. We felt a mix of accomplishment and melancholy as our season-long adventure came to an end.
Portland Lumberjacks (The Trail)
**Notebook Margin Note:** "Lumberjacks, Dave Matthews, and a surprising confession!"
**Highlight:** Portland’s eccentric charm and alternative culture made this visit memorable. Mandy couldn’t stop fantasizing about burly lumberjacks, while Beth had her sights set on GM Chris Wilson. We cruised around Portland in a Dave Matthews Band limo, visiting Wilson’s office filled with Kate’s Cookies boxes and anti-Vancouver manifestos. The biggest surprise? Discovering Wilson’s secret passion for Slim Whitman.
Final Thoughts from the Road
As we wrap up our journey, I can’t help but feel a bit melancholic. We’ve experienced so much joy, laughter, and adventure. But this isn’t the end! We’re already talking about following the playoffs or visiting MiLB clubs next year. Our passion for baseball and zest for life will keep us going. Here’s to more adventures, more laughter, and more baseball in the seasons to come!
Stay tuned, dear readers. Gertie’s Girls aren’t done yet!
With love,
Gertie
