So, do you like Phil Collins?

I have two ears and a heart, don't I?

Today, Monday November 3rd, officially starts the two weeks of crazy that is the Challenger tennis tournament. This year, it has been toned down a bit for me, as the USTA would not allow us to do our own programs. Less writing for me, and less stress, but bad for fans. And isn't that what the USTA should be working towards? Building back up a dwindling fan base? Lord. I don't claim to know the answers all the time, but this is a no brainer. If there are bright and enterprising people at the tournament sites, take advantage of them, and let them do things that they think will enhance the experience for fans. If not, you're wasting money, and ideas. And that's disappointing.

First basketball game yesterday. From my standpoint, it went as well as can be expected. No flub-ups, a good amount of energy, and the voice held up. Of course, on the message board, there was still one or two "this PA guy.....he sucks. Long live Jim Sheppard." That's cool. It's to be expected. I guess. I'm just happy to be doing my job, and getting paid to do it. I'm pretty lucky that way.

While I look forward to the end of the Challenger on November 16th, I'm not sure if I'm more excited about the fact that I'll be down to just one sport for announcing/covering (basketball), or the fact that I'll be able to start planning the CrackMonkey trip to Las Vegas. I think I may have a problem. Correction. I know I have a problem. But dammit, it's just so much fun!!!

Final thoughts: Tonight is our final softball game of the year. My brain and my beat up body both say thank goodness.
- Now that I think about it, I'm also very excited to clean my house after the Challenger is over too. And hopefully, have Bonita take her cast off, so she's happy again.
- Had a chance to be a celebrity waiter at a benefit for CASA last week. Had a blast, took off my pants, and met some wonderful people.
-Oh, and the Bonita update: She hides all the time now, only coming out for food, and naptime with me. It's very depressing.

On that note, I'm off to go dress like John McCain.