FA Cup Final Match
The best and coolest things I have done so far on this trip. I can't begin to put into words how outstanding this was. First off…. just walking up to Wembley Stadium was awe-inspiring. But.... nothing could prepare for me what awaited further on. Tens of thousands of football fans singing and cheering on their teams and this was not even inside the stadium yet. I have some amazing videos I will try to post. Now, my seat. OMG. My ticket was on the field as “on the field” you could get with actually being on the pitch. It was Row #1 at about the 20 yard line. There was a guy who was an old Everton player back in the 60s that dozens of people kept coming up and asking to take a picture with him. I, of course, had no idea who he was. But I still took my picture with him. I will find out who he was later. But he was sitting behind ME. There were 84 thousand people there and I swear they never stop singing unless it to change the chant or take a breath. I wish we had such support
and enthusiasm for sports in the US. Because my friend Scott got the ticket for me, and he works for Everton, I was sitting with the Everton supporters. Unfortunately, Everton lost to Chelsea 1-2. None the less, outstanding time and match. Although I am now 0-2 for championship appearances. I supported the Raiders at the Super Bowl when they lost to the Buccaneers. And now I supported Everton and they lost. If you ever invite me to a championship game make sure I am rooting for the team you want to lose.
Later that night Jo, Charlie and I went to a few bars and clubs. Had a grand ol time. Both of them got hammered. I stopped drinking around 2 or so. Plenty of time to sober up before we headed home around 4am. I laughed as they were both hurting on Sunday. But it did not stop them from rallying that morning. The three of us had a picnic with another friend of ours that none of had seen since New Zealand. It was a mini NZ reunion with the four of us. It was nice.
Let me just say something I have neglected in my
writings this far. I have never had the desire to go to Northern Europe because I heard the weather is always crap. I am sure you have heard it too, England is cold and damp... “London Fog” etc. But last week and this 2nd weekend back here I have had the most outstanding weather. This weekend temperatures were in the mid to High 70s. Granted I know we are heading into summer. But I still have heard the weather is not normally this good. I hope it continues.
Part of trip:
2009 Walk of the Earth