Holy Moly...this is REAL LIFE!!

We are going!

Last week, I wrote about our trip to the AFC Championship game versus those dreaded Patriots.  This week, I'm actually writing about the end of Groundhog's Day and road to New Orleans.  How sweet it is?!?!?!  This is real life!



Sunday January 20, 2013 about 10:00 pm
HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY

After winning on Sunday (and kicking some serious ass, I'll add) it took a few days for the reality to actually sink in.  I woke up on Monday morning, still smiling, but having to pinch myself a bit.  I had to repeat the words in my head, "We are going to the Super Bowl". For my 9 seasons, this has been the goal.  And, it's actually happening. We are going.

For the next few posts, I'll try to keep those who are interested updated with stuff that is going on around here and throughout our journey to NOLA.

First and foremost, I will say that I am truly blessed and humbled to be part of this journey. As I mentioned, this trip has always been the goal. Our mission is to win.  And, we want to win a Championship and bring the Lombardi Trophy home to Baltimore.  But to actually be a part of it, is beyond words. It's a fantastic experience and one I am not taking for granted.

Second and, this is really not second, but for the sake of writing it comes second, the Baltimore Ravens are everything most people think they are.  Winners who are generous beyond anything anyone could or would expect.  The benefits afforded to the staff associated with this team are numerous, abundent and frankly, fan-freaking-tastic. It's truly mind-blowing when I sit back and think about all they are doing for us. Thank you to anyone and everyone who has a hand in making this happen.  It's beyond phenomenal.

For us as employees, it's been the busiest time EVER and the best time ever.  We already knew we have a great team of people (players, coaches, and staff) but now, more than ever, they are proving it.  Most people already work long hours and spend a lot of time away from their families.  It's worse now...working 12 - 15 hour days (at least) to meet the demands of the media, gameplan for the actual game, and/or plan for a great experience for emplyees, families and friends in New Orleans. Employees are bending over backwards to ensure our players and coaches have nothing to worrry about in NOLA.  They are fierce, determined, organized and badass.

The actual trip begins for most  employoees on Monday when the team leaves. The team will focus on normal team things  (see also: winning the game) while others will be finishing the preparations, putting the last touches on events and executing details for the arrival of friends and families. 

3 or 4 chartered planes filled to capacity with family and friends covered in purple and filled with passion, will depart from Baltimore on Thursday to begin the festive weekend of celebrating and winning. Everyone going will be beyond excited, connected to the team in their own special way and they will be ready to have some of the best times of their lives. 

It already has been one of the best times of my life. A friend texted me tonight and asked how things were going. Obvi, I told him they are going fantastic...just being on this ride is fantastic.  That's not to say there haven't been issues or problems.  But it is to say that there is no other thing we'd rather be doing this time of the year. We all want this BAD. 

My "Friend Fo Life" also said to enjoy every minute. And, that is exactly what I am doing. That is what we are all doing...employees, players, coaches, families, friends and fans.  Yesterday we had a King Cake in the Cafe. Ed Reed was smiling and standing next to the cake when I walked over to check it out. He told me to have a piece and to be sure to look for the baby. (See: King Cake)  He was exuding joy. I could feel the happiness radiating out of him.  As if I couldn't already tell, I asked him if he was excited...he smiled even bigger and said, "Yes, I'm so excited. I'm so excited for all of us!"  My dear readers, we are united together experiencing joy in this great and amazing journey and loving every minute of it. I still can't stop smiling.



King Cake - Delicious and totaly worth the calories.

2013 so far, so great!

Signing off now...gotta get to sleep (I wrote this last night btw) and find a few minutes to shop for a new party dress.

xo~