We got a bit lucky at the airport this morning – there was a ton of activity. We watched several planes, probably 8-10, come and go as we ate, including this beautiful King Air, which I think left (empty) for the Bahamas.

After breakfast we headed over to Steinbrenner Field for the Rays game. The temporary home for the Rays sits right behind Tampa International Airport, which means it’s close to other businesses that are usually located near large airports. We’ve parked at this strip club twice now (first time was on Opening Day earlier this year). Great location and reasonable rates!

Renee and bought a couple of new Rays shirts, changed into them in the restrooms, and grabbed a couple of beers before heading to our seats. Those were perfect, by the way. Renee took the time to figure out which seats would be in the shade for most of the game. Much appreciated.

The beers were great, both from Coppertail Brewing Company in Tampa. I really liked mine (Unholy, a Belgian Trippel style beer with a bit of citrus), but at 9.2% alcohol, one was enough (and a tall boy, at that!). I’d get it again, and might look for it in stores. Renee’s IPA was…an IPA.

Perfect day for a ball game.

First pitch.

The Rays lost, 9-3. We saw a great game, despite the outcome. The Rays never lead, but it was only 3-1 going into the ninth inning. The Tigers had a monster top of the ninth, scoring six. And the ump called a weather delay, too, for just a little rain shower. The grounds crew pulled the tarp onto the infield and started putting it away about five minutes later. It sort of felt like the ump wasn’t used to Florida showers. Renee and I waited it out. We’ve seen plenty of multi-run comebacks on tv over the years. You never know. The Rays loaded the bases and scored two in the bottom of the ninth, but the game ended suddenly on an inning ending double-em-up line drive.

Rays took the series, so there’s that.

Go Rays!

I'm not sure who drew the pool art today, but it's fitting. Looks like Renee and me at the pool this evening, before the rain rolled in anyways.

I made a batch of simple syrup tonight for the week. I'm sure I'll find some way to put it to use. Cheers.