The Cubs opened their spring training schedule today, and life is beautiful for Cubs' fans once again. Though the odd snow flake passed by my window as I listened to the game, the sound of Pat and Ron describing the action warmed my bones.

The Cubs beat the Oakland A's 8-7. Carlos Zambrano kicked butt, giving up only 1 hit over 3 shut-out innings. The offense also started strong, building a 5-0 lead. The Cubs who will be counted on to carry the load hit the ball well. Aramis Ramirez and Derrick Lee each drove in runs (A-Ram drove in two). Ronny Cedeno singled in a run and highly touted prospect Felix Pie also drove in a pair of runs to tie the game at 7. The Cubs forced in a run in the ninth inning on a Jose Reyes fielder's choice ground ball to win the game.

Bobby Howry pitched a perfect inning of relief, performing well in his Cubs' debut. Roberto Novoa also posted a scoreless frame. The Cubs did suffer a 7 run 5th inning, so it would appear that not all of the Cubs' bullpen issues have been ironed out quite yet; minor-leaguer Bryan Corey surrender all 7 runs.

Cubs' baseball is back, folks -- life is good.

The Cubs' next radio broadcast is Saturday at 2:00 against the San Francisco Giants.

The Cubs' first televised game is Sunday at 2:00, also against the Giants.