Have you ever made a decision that you thought was a good one until it was all said and done and you realized it was probably the worst thing you could've ever done? If you answered yes to this question, you will likely be able to relate to what I'm about to say.

Softball was a huge part of my life. It was my life. I started playing ball when I was four, and the rest is history. The ball field was my home, the uniforms were my wardrobe, Saturdays were tournament days, and Sundays you began practicing for the next week.

I formed bonds with other players that will never cease to exist, and I acquired life skills that I never expected to get from a simple game. My coaches were more than just coaches. Each one I ever had was a role model to me in their own ways, and I could not thank them enough.

I learned that when you've got a full count, go down swinging. Do not watch the last pitch. I learned that family is not always blood. I learned that even though you're losing on the scoreboard, it doesn't mean you're losing at life. Most importantly I learned to not give up. Do not stop. If you are on base and there are two outs when the ball is hit you RUN. Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way. I did stop. There were two outs, and I didn't run. I gave up.

I miss the sweltering heat, the sunflower seeds, the sound of metal cleats on the pavement, circling around third base saying a prayer before the game, the dirt stains, the way it felt to hit the bed after playing all day. There is nothing about those days that I would trade for anything. Those were the best days of my life, and quitting was my biggest mistake.

Thank you, Dad, Keith, Greg, Skylar, Haley, and plenty of others who helped me through that journey. Thank you for not giving up on me, and teaching me, and raising me to be who I am today.