Can't seem to get away from work--even on vaco

Life sure is funny! I've been on vacation for the last week and 1/2. One of the best, most magical vacations I've ever had --EVER! It consisted of seeing college buddies, experiencing Indians' batting practice from the field, entertaining my family in a loge at an Indians' game, being Season Ticket Holder Fan of the Game, meeting one of my Twitter buddies, quality time with old friends every day, Larchmere Porchfest, sun, fun, and relaxation!

But it seems 2 of the most exciting highlights revolved around work --while I was on vacation! Go figure!

One night I attended the Indians' -Rockies game with a co-worker and a former co-worker. We wound up having dinner up in the Terrace Club. We were laughing, talking, catching up when who walks in? NBC Sports guru Bob Costas. Really? Bob Costas. What are the chances?

We kept our eyes on his every move (well not really). But when he went to leave, my girlfriend subtly asked if he'd mind taking a picture with all of us. He was quite gracious and did so. This was probably my one shot at ever speaking with THE Bob Costas. I mustered up as much courage as I could and introduced myself. I told him I worked for the local NBC affiliate in town. He perked up and the 1st question out of his mouth was, "Do you know Jim Donovan?" Are you kidding me? My hero and friend. I answered, "Oh yes. He's one of my dear friends. Do you know he's in the hospital?" Mr. Costas was surprised to hear about everything Jimmy is going through and was quite adamant in asking me to please send him best well wishes.

Again, I ask, are you kidding me?

After he left, I got the skinny from a friend. He apparently has very good friends in Cleveland he reunites with a few times a year. He was in town just for fun, realized there was a game and called to see if they could eat in the Terrace Club and enjoy the game. Uh, I don't think the Indians or Bob DiBiasio or anyone could ever say NO to Mr. Bob Costas. Really!

My next task was texting my friend Jimmy Donovan with the well wishes from Bob Costas! He was surprised, maybe not so much at the sentiment because they have worked together but that we saw him and spoke to him.

I must admit, the biggest thrill from this whole extravaganza was not necessarily the game, or even meeting Bob Costas but relaying the message and getting a response back from my hero and friend, Jim Donovan. I can't express how I felt at that moment.

A second highlight work related as well. Metromix Cleveland threw a huge birthday bash over in Lakewood. Why not? I was on vacation so I popped over and had the absolute best time of my life sharing in the fun, festivities, cornhole competition, dunk tank, bowling, birthday cake, and so much more, which included spending part of my vacation with cool co-workers!

All in all, a magical week which probably will not be paralleled or surpasssed anytime soon --but I can dream!!

My extended family

Since we spend anywhere from 1/3 to 1/2 of our week at work, it's very easy to see why the workplace and those we work with become our 'extended family.'

I'm sure there are some business situations which are 'all business' and do not allow co-workers to mix or become close.

You begin at 9am and leave at 5pm. You stay to yourself and just do your job.

I could never do that.

I really get into what I do.

I'm told I do it well, am one of the best.

No man is an island.

A great product comes from tremendous 'team work.'

Team work leads to friendship, camaraderie, and oftentimes, a closeness never anticipated.

My boss's father just passed away.

Today was the wake.

I went before my shift began, and unfortunately, could not stay very long being on my way to work. I wanted to attend the wake because I could not attend the funeral due to a family medical obligation.

But, as I entered the funeral home, it hit me how my co-workers ARE family.

I actually see my co-workers MORE than I see numerous blood relatives.

My co-workers see me at my best when I arrive, and then at my worst (physically) as I walk out the door with my hair up in a clip and no make-up left.

As I inched my way up the receiving line, I caught a glimpse of my boss's children.

The look her son gave me melted my heart.

He knew who I was, and with no words gave me the comforting look that he was glad to see me.

You see, when Rita's children would visit the station, I'd chat with her son and how he was doing in school, and all of his projects. Both of her children are very smart and very nice kids. But, it seemed her son, as a youngster, was drawn to the noise and hustle and bustle of the loud, crazy assignment desk. I'd love to chat with him. He was an adult in a child's body with the brilliant conversation we shared.

Rita's daughter and I are Facebook friends.

It's an amazing thread that ties all of us together.

I never knew Rita's dad, but just by knowing her and her family and all she had been through, my heart ached.

I truly believe you can never have too many 'true' friends and family members.

I am blessed to have an amazing extended family who help me make it not only through the work day but through life.