I forgot to mention in my previous post, that another reason why I am highly anticipating the Fall is for Football. (And let’s not forget Hockey starting in less than a month!) I know what you’re thinking, how can a girl enjoy watching Football? Well, it’s pretty simple actually. Growing up in a male-dominant family had deprived my time away from girly cartoons and Disney movies. Having no seniority over the remote and growing up in South Philadelphia allowed me to appreciate bonding with my family over watching sports. Like most normal Italians, Sunday’s are traditional for family bonding and a five-course overload meal -rotating between channels of all broadcasted football games. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

I grew up down the street from the Veteran’s Stadium, and my Pop would take my brother and me across the street to watch the Eagles practice. At the time, I didn’t realize how much that meant for my grand pop, but now that I’m older I cherish those memories we shared. When he passed away this summer, I made a vow to myself that I would relentlessly root for the Eagles (like I always have been) even if they are at their worst. I am eager to watch coach Chip Kelly and the Eagles as they take on the Redskins tonight for their first game of the season, and I know my Pop will be rooting for them too like he always did. 

We all hold onto something that bonds us together. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, sharing a meal, watching a game of your home team, or all of those choices. I’m glad that I allowed myself to learn and understand the game of Football to bond with my family and especially my Pop. I realize now that since he is no longer with us, that I can keep those memories alive with me..and I thank him for giving me something to hold onto.

How about an Eagles chant, shall we? E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles!