In the past, I have always looked forward to the NFL Draft like a child waiting for Christmas. On Draft Saturday, I would usually listen to the college draft while doing housework around the apartment. As long as previous first round selections lasted, my apartment would usually be quite clean by the time the first round ended.
When my team, the Cleveland Browns, were ready to announce their selection, any housework came to an immediate stop. Like that child by the Christmas tree reaching for that gift in excitement, the card would reach the podium. I would grab my gift and began to tear the paper off my present like a lion tears apart its prey as the commissioner of the NFL reads the card.
"With the sixth selection in the NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns draft at tight end, from the University of Miami, Kellen Winslow, Jr."
And I am looking at that open present the way a person does when they open their gift and hope the person who bought them that present just happened to keep the receipt.
"Kell...Wins...., I didn't want that %&^*$#+@!"
I am wanting to exchange my gift right away. Receipt or no receipt.
"And you traded a second round pick to move up one spot to get that *%&^$#)@+! I would have taken a pair of socks or a tie instead of this....."
Since then, I do not get that excited about the draft. I still enjoy reading about the college players available, mock drafts, and what the teams think about particular players.
This year, I spent time with my friend Ron and his lady friend. A nice, quiet weekend. Sitting out by the campfire at night, and taking the boat out on the river during the day.
The picture from my last blog is a picture I took of the St. Johns River as we made our way down the water that afternoon. It is peaceful and relaxing as we sail along at a slow speed on Ron's pontoon boat. We are in no hurry, unlike the people that speed by on their rum runners and cigarette boats. Just slow down in the no wake zone is all we ask.
"Meanwhile, have another beer. What are we going to do with all of these jerks anyway, besides, all of our friends are here."
The NFL Draft can wait. It isn't everyday that you get to spend time with an old friend. I can get online later,or pick up the Sunday paper tomorrow. In the meantime, enjoy the company of friends whenever you get the chance. Some things can wait, and some things can't.
I had to leave Ron's place to drive back to Orlando later that Saturday afternoon, and Ron and his friend had errands to do. We said our good byes, and I told him that I would be back in a few weeks.
As for the draft, I eventually caught up with it midway into the first round as I drove through the Ocala National Forest on my way to Interstate 95. As I told someone earlier today, my mock draft went out the window with the first pick of the day.
I really thought that Houston would take Reggie Bush. As for the draft, I really think that the New York Jets and the Green Bay Packers did well. I also think the New England Patriots and the New Orleans Saints did well, along with the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals. As for my Browns, it wasn't anything spectacular. But they did draft in areas where they needed players.
Put it this way. I didn't feel like I wanted to return my gift this time.
