(Don't) Take Me Out to the Ballgame (Anymore)

Sadly, Olivia's softball team has played their last game and Ethan's baseball team was eliminated after their first playoff game.  I know I may complain during ball season about rushing after school to get kids fed, changed and "homeworked" so they can make it to their games on time.  I may mutter about constantly doing laundry so their uniforms are clean.  Occasionally I have been known to whine about sitting on splintery bleachers in the sweltering sun.  Then, of course, there were the bad calls by the umpires, the strikeouts at the plate, and too many dinners at the concession stand ...  I would not trade one minute of any of it.

You've got it Olivia!

Run, Livie, run!

This was Olivia's first year of playing instructional softball. She was blessed with wonderful, patient coaches who instilled a love of the game in the girls.  For a girl who usually rocks the high heels, Olivia did the cleats some justice!

My tough princess

At the softball closing ceremony, the youngest player threw the ceremonial last pitch of the season to the oldest player.  Olivia happened to be the youngest player so she got to throw the last pitch, which, coincidentally, was her first! She was then awarded with the inscribed ball and a trophy -- quite an exciting day for a 6 year old!

Cool autographed ball

So proud of herself

This was Ethan's second year playing baseball and his first year playing in the minor league.  Even though his initial incentive for playing was double bubble gum and $1.00 for the concession stand after each game, he really came to love the game and is becoming quite a good player.

Getting ready to steal third base

Coach Bob offering some advice

He's going

He is almost there ...

He's safe!

It was a great season for both kids, and lots of fun for Mommy and Mama too.  Go Bulldogs, Go Yankees ... I'm ready for fall ball!

Good Game!