"You always get a special kick on opening day, no matter how many you go through. You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid...

...You think something wonderful is going to happen."~Joe DiMaggio

A Photo Essay of the Mets 2008 Home Opener

Part One

And, yes, I just used a quote from the Yankee Clipper to open a photo essay about the Mets. And, I'm mostly fine with it. Joe D captures the feeling of possibility that permeates a home opener (even if it's not actually the true opening day of the season). You look forward to it for so many reasons and there is an awesome sense of possibility that each fan in attendance gets along with the refrigerator schedule.

The 7-train is pulling up to Shea. And, doesn't she look terrific?

Well, at least until you see her much more attractive roommate...

I see the first of, presumably, many Santana jerseys on the platform after getting off the 7. The "Let's Go Mets" chants are starting up as we all head downstairs. After a morning in the office it finally feels like Opening Day. I still think I need a beer before I'm yelling anything.

Leaving the subway station you no longer walk across that small concrete bridge and down those spiral staircases. The stairwell descends right from the station this season and deposits you at ground level standing face-to-face with Citi Field. It looks classy and comfortable and expensive. In other words, it looks nothing like Shea.