Play Ball!

I relish the sound of children's laughter floating on crisp spring air. Add in the crack of a bat and some sunshine, and you've got me close to a perfect day. I can't help but love baseball. I really had no choice, as my indoctrination started young. Thanks Dad; this game is a great gift. We've eagerly awaited SuperKid's first T-Ball season since he was born. Now that we're in the middle of it, we are having a blast. I think he is having fun as well. These pictures are from some of the earlier practices.The dad who is volunteering as a coach is a very brave man. But his patience--and that of the other parents helping to coach--seems to be paying off.

Three out of four of the first games were rained out, and SK was sick for the first game they actually got to play. But his excitement was undiminished when we walked up to the real field for the first time. "This is the greatest day!" he exclaimed. After I put on his brand-spankin'-new bright purple T-shirt with "Tornadoes" across the front, he proudly said, "I'm a baseball team!"

At times, there are still sand castles built on the pitcher's mound--in the middle of the game. One boy in particular seems to persistently prefer deep left field while scouting for dandelions. It has taken an intense effort to teach them to not tackle each other and wrestle the ball away from each other while in the infield. SK had a difficult time with this. He really likes to tackle, and he really wanted the ball. It became clear pretty quickly that KiSA's role in this endeavor is to stand alongside SK and help him stay in his position. We celebrate more when he stays where he is supposed to, than when he hits the ball or runs to first.

At this age, there is no score-keeping. Each team gets to run through their lineup twice, and each child gets as many chances as they need to hit the ball. Nobody gets tagged out. Everyone is positive. And when it's all over, they get a snack.

Ahh, snack. I had no idea that this was as crucial to T-Ball as a bat or a ball. To four year-old boys, food is serious business. Add in the fact that they've been running, and the clamor about the snacks approaches feeding frenzy intensity.

I'm really proud of the boys. They are trying so hard. It is fun to see them actually improve their skills and learn about the game. And I appreciate that the coach and all the other parents are keeping a relaxed and positive attitude.