Apple Spice Junction

Archive for October 4th, 2009

After reading Alison’s comments last week, it got me thinking about fall as well. For many years now, I’ve had the privilege of coaching little league football and more recently, the great sport of lacrosse. Not only have I always enjoyed the opportunity to spend the time with my sons and the many other young men that have played on our teams, I continue to realize the many life lessons that sports teaches. For example, we always are teaching the boys to never give up, no matter what the score is. We’re always teaching them to do their very best no matter what position they play, that they’re part of a team, etc.  I’ve also realized what a great place little league sports are for kids who want to be a part of something. Every year, there are kids who really don’t care what position they play, what team they’re on, or what number they wear. They’re simply glad to be part of the team……. I’ve also realized the tremendous responsibility that comes with coaching and it’s not so much about teaching kids how to block, tackle or pass the ball. It’s helping them find self worth. It’s making sure that each boy knows he’s important not only to the team but to the world. It’s amazing what a pat on the back of the helmet coupled with a “you did a great job today” will do…. I love to win and I can’t stand losing but that’s not how I judge the season anymore. Regardless of wins and losses, the measuring stick revolves around what the boys learned about life, feeling confident that the kids are better prepared to meet the world, and they know they’re important.

I’m sure you didn’t expect my personal outlook on coaching…. What got the whole thing going was the thought of the cool autumn air and how much I look forward to coming home to a hot bowl of my wife’s delicious chili after practice.  It goes hand in hand with this time of year.  I’m lucky because it’s not just any chili, it’s Amy’s special recipe….. That’s right; the one on our menu is my wife’s recipe.  If I can manage to grab a fresh baked sourdough bread bowl from the store and pile it high with the chili, melt some grated cheddar cheese on it, break a handful of saltines, push them in, add a drop or two of Tabasco, I’m in heaven…..

 When you talk about the fall weather, you can’t ignore the thought of great homemade soup and fresh baked bread to take the edge off the cold weather.  Somehow, it just seems to hit the spot. If you’re in the neighborhood, stop by and check out our Baja Tortilla, my personal favorite, or any of our other wonderful soups. If you’re feeling extra hungry, add a fresh baked sourdough bread bowl to it. They’re sure to warm you up. If you can’t make it by the store, just jump on www.applespice.com and use our great online ordering system, call, or fax, and have some delivered to your office. Make sure to include your co-workers though or you’re not likely to end up getting any of what you ordered…..

Randy