When I was a child I remember sitting in the upperdeck of the metrodome, cheering my heart our with my dad, mom and sisters, eating a huge tub of popcorn. When the tub was empty, we would turn it over, drum on the bottom and cheer for my favorite player, Kirby Bucket. Oh, wait, I mean Kirby Puckett. Tonight Kirby Puckett passed away from a massive stroke, and I lost a childhood hero. This round, enegeric man became my inspiration, my drive to play, and play with all my heart. I played baseball until I was 12, and then switched to softball. My pre-bat rituals included tapping the plate, just like Kirby. I will always remember his smile, the way that he played each game like it was his last. He was a baseball great, and a vital part of the community. KIRBY BUCKET, I LOVE YOU!! REST IN PEACE MY CHILDHOOD HERO.


HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEANUT!!