"Don't pray for lighter burdens, but for stronger backs." ― Buddha

I have a stronger back today than I did a few months ago. It's been strengthened by packing boxes, by lifting them, by moving walkers and crutches and wheelchairs and knee scooters. Have I opened a medical equipment store? No, but I feel as if I could! My husband, Joe, ruptured his Achilles tendon last August. He had surgery at the end of August and was healing so well, progressing well thru physical therapy. He was able to remove that huge boot finally and during his very first week sustained another injury! He had to have a second surgery last Friday to repair Lisfranc injuries and now the healing begings again.

My FFIL, Ed, (Favorite Father In Law) has moved down from NJ to live with us, too. If you haven't met him yet, you probably will soon. I'm guessing he might come around to a tournament or two to watch the pitching. He pitched years ago at his Father In Law's farm in upstate NY and even took out one of the greenhouse windows! He has a million stories to share and loves life!

The new eShoe program for online membership is working well. There have been several updates this fall that make it easier to manage. Not too many of our members have used it to renew but I have been using it since October 1. I find it helpful in that I can print the cards rather than hand letter them but now I'm using a lot more ink! Everything's a trade off.

As of this publishing, we have about 100 pitchers who have renewed. I do have a stack of mail that I need to process so we're not too far off of where we usually are by this of the year. Be sure to renew before your first tournament in January 2020. Your current card for 2019 is good until December 31, 2019 but starting Jan 1, 2020 you'll need your new card to participate.

I look forward to seeing everyone out on the courts! Thank you to everyone who participates by pitching, by paying their annual dues, and by supporting their local clubs. Have a wonderful holiday season!!

Marcy Santoyo, Secretary/Treasurer