After spring training I was relieved to know that I made a roster and was heading to Beloit, WI to play for the Snappers. Spring training is always a grind and it was tough to see some guys get cut. That is the part of the game that is the "business" and it is always in the back of your head that today could be your last day. Some friends of mine were released and I wish all of them the best of luck in whatever they choose to do in or out of baseball. I spent the 2011 season in Beloit and during the season I made a connection with a family who attended and volunteered at many of the games last season.

When I found out I was heading to Beloit I contacted them because they had made me aware that they decided to host players for the upcoming season. I gladly accepted their generosity for opening their home to a player and I asked another teammate of mine (A.J. Achter) if he would like to move in their as well. The situation could not have been any better. My host parents (Jon and Erin) are two of the nicest people around.

Housing is usually an issue when you start a season because finding the right apartment, getting a 6 month lease, and the price are difficult to do in the matter of 3 - 5 days after you arrive. Knowing I had a place to stay that had a bed and roof was more than enough but Jon and Erin went above and beyond. A.J. and I have our own bed, dresser, futon, HUGE TV, cable and internet. The situation got way better though because of 2 little ones, Carson and Mikaya (my host brother and sister).

Carson is 4 years old and Mikaya is 6 years old. If you have ever wanted to relive you childhood then spending one day with these two will help you do that. During the day when Carson is home we usually play video games, nerf basketball, or baseball outside with him. He is always bouncing off the walls and wanting to hangout or play which we love. Mikaya is almost the exact opposite, as she is very calm and sometimes I would say she is by far more mature than me. Mikaya and I practice piano, talk about school and play outside with Carson & A.J. too. She is such a sweet girl and a very exceptional student.

The housing is good, parents are great and host brother/sister are even better. Housing in the minor leagues should not be this good, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to have met these great people and to be able to live with them. I have heard horror stories of some housing situations in the Minors and realize how lucky I am this season.

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