Thanks for the memories...

Anytime you lose something that you've known all your life, whether it be a family member at the most severe, or any other foundation to what makes you who you are, it's hard. While not nearly as traumatic as the death of someone in the family, this morning I woke up to mourn the loss of something that I've had from the day I was born. Memories dating back to as early as I can remember. Awesome times with my father and friends. The time I spent at Yankee Stadium. This morning I wake to know that I'll never set foot in the House That Ruth Built again.

The only thing that gives me some solace was said during the telecast last night. Yankee Stadium, while a remarkable and longstanding piece of architecture in the Bronx - hell, the only thing that made going to the Bronx something a sane person would do - it was and continues to be the fans that made it what it was. That doesn't die. That can't and won't be sold off as the building is deconstructed piece by piece. That is what will make the new stadium just as magical and majestic as its predecessor. I regret not making it to the stadium this year with the family, but I will look forward to ushering in the new era next year. I'm just glad beyond words that not only was the last home run hit by someone wearing the pinstripes, but the last game recorded in the stadium was a tick mark in the win column for the boys of New York.

So, Yankee Stadium, thanks for all the good times, for the hot dogs and pretzels out on the street, from the rowdy crowds in the bleachers to the rare times of catching a game along the first base line. You made a good part of my childhood something I will remember forever, and you will be missed.