The crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd, the summer tradition of baseball, these things I expected. The nontraditional additions new to my baseball experience? Well, an elevator ride to a private entrance - including an small talking elevator operator who wanted to know if everyone was excited, was one. There was seat side service. You can even run up a tab during until the 7th inning, I don't even want to imagine. Also, the folks at Safeco Field have decided to indulge the minority and serve up veggie dogs. It was blissful, my first babseball game hot dog in over 10 years.

The opening events were spectacular, they included the unveiling of the new AL West banner, a red carpet, and lots and lots of awards, including the beef tongue fanatic and his myriad of trophies.

It's too bad they lost, but it was an exciting event none the less. I'm looking forward to heading back for more games, even if I do have to sit with the little people and get up and retrieve my own snacks.