I grew up in New York City. I have one memory of going to Ebbets Field, and I often tell people that if the Dodgers hadn't left Brooklyn I would probably still be living there. But by the time I became a baseball fan, the Yankees were not just the only team in NYC, they were my team.

They still are. I've mellowed a bit in recent years (I no longer hate the Red Sox; I just root against them and hope they lose to every team they play), but going to Yankee Stadium is still close to a religious experience for me.

My latest Yankee story happened about a month ago. My Beautiful and Talented Wife (The BTW) and I were in Tampa for a quick getaway and I realized I was standing next to Yankee captain, starting shortstop, and certain-to-be-elected-on-the-first-ballot all star Derek Jeter at the breakfast buffet. In a fraction of a second I changed from an adult male to a 9 year old boy. I could barely get out a few words and wanted to shake his had just so I could tell my friends.

(The BTW said I was probably just in awe of someone who used to date Mariah Carey.)

Today is the first day of the new baseball season. So in the midst of budget deficits, rising national debt, mortgage meltdowns, daily credit market crises, and who knows what else, I am feeling great about what's ahead.