End of Another Great Season

Today the boys played their last games of this baseball season. The weather was hot with very little breeze, which made being a spectator somewhat unpleasant. But the sweat and slight sunburn was worth it to watch my boys finish out their baseball season.

Nathan had a great last game against the Braves this morning. He got to bat twice and played short stop, catcher and pitcher. He did great at each position; I don't think he could have ended the year any better!

Nathan up to bat

Nathan playing catcher

Nathan playing pitcher

Granny, Cody, and a pretending-to-be-sleeping Alex

Amy sitting in her favorite spot to watch the game: Paw-Paw's lap

Alex's game came a little later, giving us time to go out for lunch with Granny and Paw-Paw and cousin Cody. We made it back to the ball park in plenty of time for warmup before the game against the notoriously difficult-to-beat Cubs. It became apparent fairly quickly that our boys were tired and not exactly playing their best. Alex hardly ever strikes out when up at bat, but his first time up in today's game he struck out, as did many of our boys. Thankfully, their boys weren't hitting too well either. Our players, though still a little sluggish, did manage to perk up a bit during the game and we only lost by 2 runs, which considering the reputation of the team we were playing, was really good! Alex had a great hit his second time at bat and overall played a great game.

Alex up to bat

Team parties are, of course, part of the end-of-season baseball tradition. Nathan had his team party at Mr. Gatti's on Wednesday where he received his trophy, ate pizza and had fun playing lots of arcade games. Thanks to Granny and Paw-Paw for taking him and Alex since Bill was out of town and Amy and I had to be at her ballet rehearsal. I am sad that I missed that special event in Nathan's life, but I know he had a great time just the same. Alex's team party occurred today just after his game. It was held at a had it at a nearby park where the kids were able to run and play and just hang out with each other. This also enabled the parents to relax and actually talk to one another, something we can't normally do too well when we're all watching, cheering and coaching the baseball games. The party also involved cake, trophy presentations and gifts for coaches and helpers. The kids had a great time, as did all the parents.

Alex's team party

A cake that's cute and delicious, too!

Alex and his new trophy

I'm glad that the many practices and games have finally concluded, but I'm also somewhat sad. It has been such a joy to watch the boys play each week and to see how far they've come from when they first started out the year. I'm going to miss watching them play. But just because baseball season is over doesn't mean all the excitement has to end. In a couple of weeks, we start basketball season at the Y. The fun never ends!