Take me out to the ball game

The Fella and I at tonight's Chicago Cubs vs. Washington Nationals baseball game.

I had a major revelation the other day that changed my whole, little world.

I've finally figured out that you don't actually need to buy tickets to go to Cubs baseball games – the key is to find ways to get 'em for free!

Thinking back in retrospect, I've attended five Cubs games in my three years in Chi-town – not too shabby for a non-baseball enthusiast. I only paid for ONE of those games. (That was because I had just moved here and didn't know any better!) Today a patient gave The Fella last-minute tickets to tonight's game against the Washington Nationals. It was a very cold, very windy night (cold enough to break out my Uniqlo heat-activating thermal shirt, a cashmere sweater, scarf, hat, gloves, wool coat and boots) – and not to mention – as my friend H incredulously pointed out: "AND you're missing Glee!". I can't believe I agreed to the game tonight.

Nevertheless, armed with a cup of Hot Chocolate (actually more like Warm Chocolate) purchased from a stadium vendor as he coasted through the aisles, I Facebook'd from my mobile while listening to the sounds of the game. If you ask me, that's really the best part of this sport (the sounds, not the Facebooking). That, and the Ball Park hot dogs with a little bit of onion and relish. But the *best* part of the night was spending time with The Fella, which is something we've had very little of together this month due to our differing schedules.

"Relaxed Feet" at tonight's game – but obviously a very cold night as I'm sporting my red Hunter Wellies and corresponding pink fleece socks.

Apparently the world of marketing and printing is a good avenue to scoring free Cubs tix: baseball outings in Chicago are like what golfing does for business relationships everywhere else. Last year, a print vendor trying to renew the relationship with my company gave me free tickets to the Cubs vs. NY Mets game. Sometimes it's good to be Production Manager! It was a beautiful late summer day, with more than decent Upper Deck seats right next to the cameraman. If you saw me on TV, yes, I'm that girl ducking from the foul balls!

Cubs vs. NY Mets, August 2009 – what else, but the famous "Relaxed Feet" shot??

Not too long after that, in the fall of 2009, I was asked to wine and dine our new "big fish" client. Sure, why not! The VP bought me some peanuts and Cracker Jack, I don't care if I never get back! Oh wait. Five hours later, three foul balls, two Ball Park hot dogs, one Connie's Pizza, and the client was smitten.

Cubs vs. Phillies game. Me with the OSI Group in their
sweet Lower Level season ticket seats.

Me, on the Wrigley Rooftop at the Cubs vs. Arizona Diamondbacks – it's official, I have an Access Pass!

In 2008, I was invited by my neighbor to attend an event on one of the coveted Wrigley Rooftops, where I enjoyed unobstructed, 360 degree views of the field and stadium, private bleacher seating, unlimited food and drinks. Rooftop tickets usually go for $100 or more. (Too bad I'm not so much a fan of that neighbor these days – it's ok for me to say this because the feeling is mutual, I'm sure.)

I may not be a baseball fanatic, but Cubs games at Wrigley Field sure are a fun experience – it's like a big party with baseball in the background!

Now I have my sights set on another print vendor who has hinted at late spring tix...