Baseball and camp. Two American classics.

Instead of doing a predictable recap of my internship, I thought I would show you guys how being a camp counselor really prepared me to work for a baseball team (particularly a minor league one).
Let's back up for a second though, shall we? So, I've been pretty low key about my internship and what exactly it entailed. However, it is now over and I am prepared to share some of the details. In January, I started a full time internship with the Detroit Tigers for their Lakeland Operations. What this means is I worked for the Tigers during their Spring Training and then for their Advanced A team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers. I specifically worked in group sales, but got to do a little bit of everything. January through March were a blast! We got to see the excitement, and craziness, that is Spring Training. Starting in April, we began the minor league season where I feel a lot of the learning took place. Now that we're kind of up to speed, here's how working in baseball was kind of like being a camp counselor.

At the particular camp I worked at we all arrived and spent about a week together before campers arrived. We called it orientation week, or O week. After that, we had 8 weeks of campers ahead of us. This internship was 8 months long and January was kind of like O week. We spent most of it preparing for the day that coaches and players would arrive from Detroit. After that, some of them would remain here until the season was over.
At camp, each Monday a new group of campers arrived. This was their only week with us, and everything was new and exciting. For us, sometimes things were not new and losing excitement. If it was your third week on middle school in a row, you might not be as hyped on things.  However, it was important to be excited for the kids because this was their one shot to enjoy it. No matter how many times you had sang a song or painted nails or eaten hot dogs; you had to remember this was the one chance you got to experience it with this group of kids. Now let's think about Spring Training. At Joker Marchant Stadium, we hosted 18 home Spring Training games. For the most part, people were coming to one game out of those 18 and that was it. They had planned their whole vacation around this, maybe even their whole year. They lived for this. Because of this, we run every Spring game pretty similarly-same promotions each game, same order, and same routines. I don't think the excitement of Spring Training never truly went away. However, it was easy for some of the days to become really repetitive. It was important to remember that for the fans, we had to treat every day like Opening Day. This was their only day at the park. It always reminded me of a new week at camp.

My particular position dealt a lot with kids, and I loved it!  I was in charge of birthday parties and a program we have called Baseball Buddies. Baseball Buddies allows little league baseball or softball leagues to stand on the field with our team during the National Anthem. Not only did I organize them, I was also responsible for them on game days. Thank God for all of my experience with kids of all ages.  Sometimes I would need to walk the kids around the stadium or line them up or just simply have fun with them. Thankfully, I remembered all those silly games I'd play with my campers while we were waiting for something to start or while we were walking from one place to the next. Not to mention I knew how to just talk to the kids! Once you graduate college, it can sometimes be hard to talk to children (the youths, if you will).  Baseball camps and clinics were always super fun for me because I loved being with the kids because it was easy for me.

A huge lesson I learned at camp was how to be intentional and selfless, and that has been a huge part of working in this industry. Being intentional has been a huge part of our relationship with the fans here. We are so intentional. From visiting fans in suites to making birthday party memorable, we really work hard to make sure fans have the best experience possible.  We are so sure to keep them updated on things, as well as included in things. We take the time to talk to season ticket holders.  We announce birthdays over the PA. Not sure where your seat is? We walk you to it. It reminds me of when I was a lifeguard at camp. Our instructor always pushed being intentional and how important it was. I was reminded of that over and over again at the stadium. There's also a million ways (or close) I could think of how selfless we are.  We eat when we can, we go out of our way to help a fan, and we don't stop until the game is over (even if that means pulling tarp twice and not finishing until midnight). There were plenty of times I didn't think I could climb the stairs again but my birthday party needed ketchup. Honestly, these are things that should be expected but sadly are not found at every ballpark. We work so hard to make each game more than just the baseball happening on the field, but an entertaining night to everyone in attendance. We work unusual and long hours, but it's so rewarding in the end. That's how it was at camp.  Each week we had new campers, and we always treated it like it was week one.

Never would I ever have thought that working at a summer camp would have set me up for a minor league baseball gig.  Sure, camp was work experience and a great leadership position.  In hindsight, it was so much more than that.  When you stop working at camp, it's so typical to say you've gotta get back to the "real world" and get a "real job" (even though what we do there is very much real and very much a job).  I used to say that all of the time because I was a business major and no where close to thinking working with kids all summer would help me work towards my goals. It was just a rewarding and fun way to spend my summers.  Now, I see how completely wrong I was by thinking that.  So, I guess what my main point was here is this: I never thought being a camp counselor could help me achieve my dreams of working in sports.  Truth is that I think camp taught me the (second) most amount of skills for working in sports (school being the first). So here's to two really awesome life changing events that turned out to work hand in hand with each other! Have any questions about working my internship in baseball? Were you ever a camp counselor? Do you have any funny stories about baseball or summer camp? Let me hear them!

Until next time,
Brandt

I heart Lklnd.

As my time in Lakeland begins to wind down (*super sad face*), I've thought about all the awesome things this town has to offer.  Most of these things seem to be very overlooked, and its a huge shame. Month after month, I hear people complain about Lakeland and I wonder if they've ever even discovered the gems this place has to offer. So, I decided to compile a list of things I've grown to love about Lakeland to show you what you might be missing out on.

1. THE FOOD TRUCK RALLY!
If you know me at all, you know this is my jam. I am a food truck rally enthusiast, and am a huge advocate for the Lakeland Food Truck Rally.  This blessing happens the second Thursday of every month in Downtown Lakeland at Munn Park. Food trucks from all over Central Florida line up and showcase their unique cuisine. Some months there will be live music or other vendors from around Lakeland. There's nothing I love more than grabbing a ton of different foods, and plopping down on the grass in Munn Park. People bring out their dogs and/or kids and the sun is usually setting. It's easily my favorite part of Lakeland. Be sure to like them on Facebook so you're always up to date on what trucks are rolling in each month.

2. CIRCLE B
Alright, this one only works if you're outdoorsy. Circle B was once an actual cattle ranch, and sits on the shores of Lake Hancock. If you don't mind trail walks or hiking, Circle B is a great place to visit. There's wildlife, a lake, and plenty of trails to discover. Bikes are also welcome if you've got one. Oh, and horseback riding is allowed (bring your own horse). I prefer to pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the picnic areas on site. There is also a pretty sweet nature center that's open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sunday. If you're looking for a way to enjoy some nature, Circle B has what you're looking for!

3. JOKER MARCHANT STADIUM
Sorry (not sorry) about the bias on this one. Joker Marchant Stadium is the spring home of the Detroit Tigers.  It also plays home to their Advanced A team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers. So many people miss out on how awesome it is that this is right in our backyard.  Spring training is a little pricey, so it may be harder to experience. However, it is so exciting when the big leaguers are in town! You might even get to catch a glimpse of other celebs like Kate Upton (if her and current starter Justin Verlander remain together). Once the glamour of spring ends, its time for the boys of summer to play America's past time. The Lakeland Flying Tigers are a minor league team that showcases the up and coming talent in the Tigers organization. Not to mention they also have some of the best deals in town. $1 Monday, All You Can Eat Wednesdays, and fireworks shows on Saturday are only a few of the awesome things you can find at a Flying Tigers game. This season is winding down, but there's still a firework show left and a beer festival in October!

4. THE LAKES
Also, this one works if you like being outdoors.  When I was in college, I would bike around 3, sometimes 4, different lakes in a couple of hours and I LOVED IT! Lakeland has what feels like hundreds of lakes (go figure), but they are each so unique. Some of my top favorite lakes: Hollingsworth, Morton, Mirror, and Hunter. So go grab a bike or put on your running shoes and enjoy the scenery and natural beauty this place has to offer!

5. MITCHELL'S COFFEE HOUSE
I seriously dream about Mitchell's favorite breakfast burrito. My knees go weak at the sight of one. I'm not even a huge breakfast burrito fan, but this one is it. Not to mention they also have an almond joy coffee that does wonders for me. That's only the tip of the iceberg though. Mitchell's is locally owned and a huge part of the Lakeland community. Located downtown, Mitchell's is a great place to study, socialize, or just spend some quality alone time. There are tables of different shapes and sizes, and tables outdoors as well. They have books and board games for you to enjoy, and every local magazine you could think of displayed in the front. It's got a cozy, local feel that I love; think less "hustle and bustle" than Starbucks. Mitchell's is definitely a Lakeland gem.

6. BREW HUB
If you have ever passed through Lakeland on I-4, you might have seen this establishment on the side of the highway. Brew Hub is this warehouse-turned-brewery where craft brewers can brew, pack, and distribute their beer. It's a whole new business model that is really changing the game.  Even better? There's a tasting room!!! Brew Hub is such a fun place to go and hang out and enjoy some new beers. They switch up what's on tap depending on what kegs they have in, or what brewers they are currently working with at the time. So, be sure to check out what's on tap before you go by visiting the website or using their mobile app. From time to time, they even have entertainment and it really adds to the environment. I love the feel to this place. It is so unique and different, and is a nice change up from your average bar. It's tricky to get to, but once you've been you'll be glad you took the adventure. I personally recommend the Keybilly Island Ale and Pool Hop Session IPA if they're on tap when you visit.

7. FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
Okay, I couldn't write this and not mention my Alma Mater.  Florida Southern College has been placed in the Top 10 Most Beautiful Campuses over and over again and if you've ever visited then you know why. Between the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, the gardens, and being on Lake Hollingsworth it is easily beautiful every day of the week. It's not uncommon to find people taking tours just to see the campus. Not to mention over the past few years, new buildings have been added that are just as breathtaking as the older ones. If you visit, stop by the newly renovated Annie Pfeiffer chapel. Also, we are currently home to the D2 Men's National Basketball Champions! So if you visit during basketball season, make sure to catch a thrilling Mocs basketball game!

There you go, some of the things that will have me missing Lakeland sooner rather than later.  Even though I've only been here for two years, this place has taken a huge part of my heart. It may not be as big as Tampa or Orlando, but I think that's where this place gets its charm. This place is the best of Central Florida and if you're every passing through, I recommend you stop to say hi.

Until next time,
Brandt

Ch-ch-changes.

I need to apologize. I have been far too quiet lately and for that I am sorry. Now here's something I am not sorry about…I AM ENGAGED!!! Yup. Connor (my partner in crime) asked me to marry him and I said yes so now he's my fiancé! Now don't worry, this will not turn into a bridal blog. I've been engaged for just a few weeks and some days I don't even wanna talk about wedding planning so like it probably won't end up on here too much.

You're probably wondering so many things like how did he ask, what's the ring look like, when are you going to get married so I'll answer them. 

Last Wednesday, I had the day off. However, we were all invited to go watch a Rays game as an office. So , I went over to St. Pete for the game and rushed back to Lakeland as soon as it was over to enjoy the rest of my day off with Connor.  We ate some dinner together, went on a walk, and then decided to go Downtown.  The whole time I felt like he was trying to find a time to tell me something, but I couldn't figure out what it was.  Finally, we sat down at one of our spots in Downtown Lakeland by Lake Mirror. We were just talking about what the next few months would look like with my internship ending and Connor going up to Ft. Gordon (he's in the Army).  The conversation turned serious, and he began to say all of these nice things.  Then next thing I know hes in front of me down on one knee asking me to marry him! Of course I said yes!!

I can not even explain to you guys through this post how much I am looking forward to being married to Connor and spending the rest of our lives together. As for all of the other details, the ring is gorgeous.  Probably the coolest things about it are that it's vintage and the diamond is conflict free. As of right now, we're aiming for mid to late February for the wedding.  It's soon, but this way we will be married before he has to report to his first duty station in good ole Oklahoma.

As I settle into figuring out how to wedding plan, I will mix in posts to make sure I don't abandon my blog. Be sure to keep your eyes open for more regular posts soon! If you have ANY wedding planning advice or suggestions I am 100% open to hearing all of them! Send those bad boys my way!

Until next time,
Brandt

Swamp Head. Gainesville, FL.

Okay, so the first few blogs were fun.  Now it's time to go on an adventure...well read about one of mine.  For those of you who don't know me, I am originally from a small town called High Springs, FL.  If you don't know where that is, that's okay.  It's basically right outside of Gainesville, FL aka where The University of Florida is located.  So, pretty much I grew up in Gainesville.  Good ole Alachua County is still my "home", and where my parents reside.  This weekend (I finally had a WHOLE weekend off, gotta love 8 game road trips), I made a trip up to High Springs to visit my parents, along with all of my favorite things back home.  Once I turned 21, I discovered Swamp Head at one of my favorite hometown bars (Salty Dog in Midtown).  Since then I had made it a goal to visit the brewery.  Now when I return home, its a must to stop by.

Swamp Head Brewery was born in 2008 and has made its home in Gainesville.  They are all about Florida, and being "Inherently Floridan."  Which is awesome, and a huge reason why I love this beer and this brewery.  They recently moved into their brand new brewery, and it is phenomenal.  The taproom, or The Wetlands, is there as well and has such a great feel to it.  While I've tried quite a few of the Swamp Head beers (and suggest you do the same), Wild Night is my favorite.  Connor loves it as well.  It is just one of their 5 year round beers. You can also find Cottonmouth, Stump Knocker, Midnight Oil, and Big Nose IPA on tap.  Anytime I'm home, I stop by and fill up a growler, or two, of Wild Night to take back to Lakeland with me.

This particular visit was the first time I actually got to sit down and enjoy The Wetlands.  Hot dang! I was not disappointed.  The Wetlands is such a comfortable place, and the prices are on point.  For $4 a pint, you can enjoy one of the Swamp Head brews on tap.  They even pour beers from other Florida breweries, and prices vary on those.  In the actual tap room, there are high top tables mixed in with regular height tables, as well as seats at the bar.  There are huge windows with a beautiful view of the land surrounding the brewery.  There are board games available to play, or you can even bring your own!  The bar is amazing, as it has purse hooks AND power outlets built into it.  It has such a bright and relaxing vibe.  There is an area roped off in the brewery area where you can play cornhole, life-sized connect four, Jenga, or just hang out. On the day Connor and I visited, there was even a food truck out front.  Dos Burros serves tacos and burritos, and it doesn't get much better than tacos and beer!  (Be sure to check out the Events tab on their website to see if there will be a food truck there if you visit.  It's not an everyday thing.)

Then there is the beer.  Like I mentioned before, Wild Night is my absolute favorite.  I love it and it always provides me with some great memories.  Wild Night is a honey cream ale, and since I love light beers it works perfectly for my taste.  Out of the other year round beers, I have also tried Cottonmouth and Stump Knocker.  Both of these are fan favorites and I have to say they are very good.  Cottonmouth is a Belgian Witbier, and Stump Knocker is a pale ale.  If you're into stouts, Midnight Oil is all you.  This is an oatmeal coffee stout with locally roasted coffee!  Last, but not least, is Swamp Head's IPA.  Big Nose IPA has an ABV of 7.3% and is a huge favorite among the locals.

If you can't make it to Swamp Head, but live in the Gainesville area, it's okay!  Swamp Head cans and sells their Stump Knocker and Big Nose IPA.  (Wild Night cans are in the works!)  Don't live in Gainesville?  Hey, that's okay too! Simply head on over to Swamp Head's website and see if its available anywhere in your area.  Right now, its only available in Florida, but everyone needs a reason to visit the Sunshine State!
For more information on Swamp Head and The Wetlands, be sure to check out their website!

If you're ever in town, I would definitely recommend stopping by and having a beer.  (I want you to have fun, and please enjoy responsibly!) If you've been there, tell me what you thought! There are seriously so many cool places around Florida, and I love visiting as many as possible.  I can't wait to share more of my adventures with y'all!

Until next time,
Brandt

What's in my bag?

A girl's purse is a magical wonderland of various treasures.  Some ladies seem to have everything in their purses, while others seem to have barely anything at all.  I fall somewhere between those two categories, carrying what I consider to be the essentials.  From a Tide To-Go pen to a koozie, my purse contains the things I think I need on a day to day basis.

Wallet
Lets start off with something general, my wallet.  I love it! When I was "building" my purse before I started my job, I searched high and low for the perfect wallet.  I've had what feels like every style wallet out there-the longer ones, the wristlet ones, and even a trifold. While I don't mind those styles, I needed something that would fit in my new purse, and wouldn't break my bank.  One day at Target, I was checking out the wallets.  There mine was, and it was on sale!  It was the perfect size, and at $4.99 I couldn't say no.  I have a ton of store cards, but choose not to carry them around on a daily basis.  I usually will just use my phone number or e-mail at the store, or only take them with me if I'm planning on going to that particular store. This wallet is perfect for carrying around the basics!

Cosmetic Bag
This was another item that I searched for until I could find one that wasn't like $15.  I finally found it at either Walmart or Target, and I believe it was under $5.  I would consider this to be one of, if not the most, important things in my purse.  My mom has always carried one, and I usually thought it was ridiculous. She's a nurse (and a smart lady in general) and is always prepared for anything.  In my bag I carry a Tide To-Go pen, band aids, lotion, body spray, bobby pins, floss, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and lady products.  Bath and Body Works and Victoria's Secret have the best travel sized items that fit perfectly in these types of bags.  That's where I stock up on my hand sanitizer, body spray, and lotion. I cannot tell you how many times something in this bag has saved me!

The Essentials
There are items that I carry with me that fall into a miscellaneous category. Some items in my purse are purely in there for work.  I carry a tiny notebook around to keep quick notes on, my credentials, and A TON of pens with me every day. Besides that, everything else in my purse is a little random.  I'm not an extreme couponer or anything, but I carry a small coupon organizer in my purse.  I have a bad habit of forgetting to use coupons when I have them, but this way they're always with me.  Mints and lipstick or something of the sorts are two things I really try to not be without.  You never know when you'll need it!  It may be weird, but I also carry my headphones (and Lifeproof tail) with me all the time.  This way I have them if I need them, and never forget them when I go to the gym.  Plus, I always know where they are when I need them.  I carry not one, but two koozies in my purse.  I think it's mostly in case someone else needs one or I'm not in the mood for my Lilly one.  Either way, I think koozies are great to carry around.  Its a huge thing for me to make sure my sunglasses always make it back into their case; I have broken too many to not do this. Especially since I've started spending a few extra dollars on them. My dad tends to be a little overprotective (and a little overdramatic), so I also carry around some pepper spray.  Thankfully, I've never had to use it. The last essential I carry around with me is either my planner, a notebook, or my iPad.  Sometimes I carry only one, sometimes I carry all three.  I'm huge on being organized, and this helps if I need to jot something down or remember a date.

Crazy to think all of this fits in my medium sized purse, right?  It all fits pretty comfortably with some extra room to throw in my phone charger or anything I might need for the day.  I found my purse on sale at Versona for $17 and it's been a real trooper.  I love all of the compartments and that it zips up.  I was determined to not spend a ton of money on a purse, so this ended up being such a great deal. I also love that my purse unintentionally has a color theme...with the exception of a few things.

I carry some pretty random stuff around with me, but it's all come in handy at least once.  What do you consider to be your everyday essentials?

Until next time,
Brandt

Girl, this is my JAM!

A few weeks ago, I was planning a Ladies Night for one of our upcoming games.  (In case you didn't read my "About" page, I work for a minor league baseball team.)  Along with that came making a playlist for the night.  To compose the playlist I searched Spotify, asked some of my coworkers for their opinions, and threw in some of my personal favorites.  During the game I couldn't stop thinking of how much I liked the playlist...and then I remembered that I (partially) came up with it.

At the stadium, we use Spotify to make and play our playlists for games.  My fellow intern, Kenny, was gracious enough to make my list into a Spotify list and allow me to share it with the world (aka you lovely friends).


I personally like to listen to this on the way to work, or while at work.  It's a mix of songs about ladies, songs for ladies, and (most importantly) songs by ladies.  It has a ton feel good, sing along jams, so why not share it with everyone?

Do you have a favorite playlist full of female powerhouses, or great girl jams?  Share them with me!  I love new music!

Until next time,
Brandt

I love my lips.

I don't know about you, but I am a sucker for new lip glosses, balms, and stains.  My collection ranges anywhere from EOS lip balm and Maybelline's Baby Lips to Sephora lip glosses and Ulta lipsticks.  They are all great in my option and are in my daily rotation depending on my plans.  There's a new addition to my lip wear collection, and it's been my go-to every day this week.

PROVOCALIPS: 16 HR Kiss Proof Lip Colour by Rimmel London
I was casually browsing through my Instagram feed when I saw a post about these lip colors, so I decided to give them a try. Rimmel's website describes them as "kiss-proof, transfer-proof, trouble proof" with "up to 16 hours of lip liberation!" It is also advertised as "weightless" and providing "endless comfort." Sounds great, right?

During my last shopping trip, I decided to pick up a few shades and give em a go. I chose Dare to Pink-110 and I'll Call You-200.  I'm a fan of lighter pinks for more casual days, and fuchsia/darker pink shades for work and going out.  Dare to Pink is a lighter pink, and I'll Call You is a darker pink.

Dare to Pink.  Great color, but definitely not my favorite of the two.

I'll Call You: Love the color!

I'll be up front with you, I like I'll Call You much better than Dare to Pink.  Not because of the shade, but more because of the way it wears.  For some reason, the lighter shade seems to not apply as well as the darker shade.  When applying these make sure you leave your lips apart for 60 seconds between the color and the lock & shine.  I did not know to do this at first, and it really does help.  So, how well does it live up to it's expectations?  Well, these colors definitely last for 16 hours and you won't find traces of them on your straws and cups.  At the end of the day, my lips are still full of color.  Be sure to have some great make up remover on deck to remove it though.  It really does hold up well throughout the day.  I never find it on anything, and if I ever need to reapply its sometimes after lunch.  As far as comfort goes, I would say yes to feeling weightless and mostly yes for endless comfort.  I forget I'm wearing it sometimes, because it is weightless and never smudges.  For comfort, sometimes I feel like my lips are a little dry.  However, I tend to over moisturize my lips and this summer weather can also play a part in that.  The texture may take a little getting used to, but like I said it is very weightless.

Overall, I am a fan of these stains.  They are pretty comfortable, come in great colors, and last all day.  I would totally recommend them for casual, everyday wear. Want to get your hands on a shade or two and try them?  They're available in a ton of different places! Walmart, Target, Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Meijer, and Ulta.  You can even "try it on" using a feature on Rimmel London's website!  It's pretty wallet friendly too, averaging about $6.  I snagged mine for $5.84 at Target using a 10% discount through their Cartwheel app.  Ulta also has them on sale right now for $5.99, and they run about $6.50 at Walmart.  Oh, and it is available in 9 different shades, so you're bound to fall in love with one of them!
Decide to try it? Let me know which color you rocked, and how you liked it! Already use it? Tell me if you like it, or could do without it!

Until next time,
Brandt