Joyeux Noel

Well I am happy to say that I have fallen into a pretty good little routine over here in good old Roanne. We have continued to play well and are sitting in 2nd place. So I am feeling good about the whole thing. I have found my way in our rotation playing pretty well when I get my minutes. I have reached a comfort level finally with the European style of basketball. Do I miss home and maybe even Bakersfield? Umm yah... wow did I just say I missed Bako? Guess so, that little dust pot really found a place in my heart. We had a good run up there and I credit it a lot for developing my game with great support and opportunities.
Now being in France has become very nice. Jessica and I have adapted very well and I have felt that we have made ourselves part of this little community. Minus the language barrier its almost like we are living anywhere back in the states. So to say the least we are enjoying the lifestyle over here.
Ok enough juicy stuff...on with the battles and war stories from the Hardwood. Ok so I will start with a little trip to Cypress. The little island in the Medditeranian Ocean. I have heard it to be a nice place but I guess we went to the wrong spot or made a wrong turn. The place that I saw was basically like Phoenix, meaning desert and hot. No sandy beaches with blue waters. But what do I care I am here for work! So we were to play the Cypress team that is in our group for the Euro Challenge. I have played in a few bad gyms in my day but their gym was right near the bottom. It was like playing at the Boys and Girls Club we used to play at when we were kids. Baskets hung right off the wall with that little 1/4 inch pad underneath which is supposed to protect you if you are smashed into the wall (those work really well right mom, remember the acromion process game). The "Arena Seating" consisted of layered cement benches, I think five high. Much like the seat at an old Roman Amphitheatre. So needless to say they were empty. But whatever, we are here to win and get out. Silly me though I didn't bring my football pads as this game turned into a gladiatorial contest (guess the seats were appropriate). This game simply put was hand to hand combat. It went really well for us and thankfully, minus some lacerations and deep bruises we walked away with a 20 point win. To really appreciate it you have to watch the game film. But hey winning is the best medicine. So we returned home to continue our French league conquest.
We have since played 2 more games in our league winning one and losing one. So we have maintained our seat at the top. Our remaining games before Christmas are very important to solidify a spot at the top to start the second half of the season. I get to go home on the 20th December and can't wait. Much needed R & R and maybe some good Mex food. Hope this update finds you all well!! Au Revoir