First Giants Game

Last night I attended my first San Francisco Giants game with the 20s/30s group from church and some other friends. The stadium was gorgeous and had a huge variety of food to buy (I opted for the turkey burger and sampled someone else's garlic fries). If you have never been to a Giants game, be advised that you should bring a heavy coat or blanket when going as the park's proximity to the bay means lots of wind and cool temperatures at night.

I had a great time but I must confess that I did not pay much attention to the game, focusing more on catching up with people, eating, and trying to stay warm. I did, however, register the fact that the Giants lost the game to the Phillies. While there were some die-hard fans there, most people seemed as disengaged as I. The game seemed more like a hang-out spot, rife with unruly people in the bleachers and teens wandering aimlessly. Perhaps this is due to the fact that tickets are inexpensive and plentiful. Overall there just did not seem to be the intensity or fervor that I know and love from Red Sox fans, which took away a little from the modern ballpark. Nonetheless, I would certainly go back, if only to socialize and enjoy the city. (Side note: I saw several people sporting their Red Sox gear at the game so rest assured that the citizens of Red Sox nation have infiltrated all stadiums, even if the Red Sox are not present.)

Following the game, a few of us headed to the North Beach area of the city, where we found some gelato. We then went to Vesuvio, a bar known as being a central gathering place for the Beat Generation, including Jack Kerouac. By the time I got home, I had been awake for nearly 22 hours, a surprising feat given the week I had at work. I slept well.

Me with Paul and Dan

On the left is Steve Naylor, the Acting Minister of Programming and Outreach at church. Also in the picture are his friends Brady and Gwen and my fellow South Bay-er, the other Steve.

At Vesuvio