This summer we let each child choose one activity to participate in.  James decided he’d give T-ball a try and he really enjoyed it.  We signed up for a Park and Rec team that held practices and games near our house.  Starting mid-May, before school was even out, he had practices two nights a week and games (those same two nights a week) began the beginning of June.  The season ended the end of July, which has been nice to have a few weeks free before school starts.

James played modified T-ball which means the kids are thrown a few slow, overhand pitches, and then if needed, they’ll pull out the tee for them to bat from.  James improved quite a bit over the two months – learning to bat, improving his catching skills, learning some rules of the game, and playing on a team.  We’re so proud of him!

At his first game, my brother and his family were in town, so in addition to Kenny’s family that are local, James had quite a cheering section!

I was caught off guard by the tears I had the first time James was up to bat.  There is something so special about seeing your kids do something new for the first time.  Or, watching them do something that is outside of their comfort zone.  The unconditional love and feelings of pride are sometimes overwhelming!

As a family, we enjoyed going to games regularly – packing up our chairs and relaxing watching the games.  The park also had a playground which worked great for Anna when she tired watching the game.  Mary Jo, Lynn & Ryan were so faithful to come to many of James’ games too.  So nice.

We really enjoyed the parent involvement with the team, too.  Lots of parents at practices and games to help the kids.  Kenny even got to pitch at one game!

Through the season a good handful of James’ practices and games were cancelled due to thunderstorms.  And, unfortunately, his last two games this week were cancelled because of lightening.  Such a bummer.  Kenny and James had worked hard at the batting cages earlier in the week in preparation for the last two games, so we were all disappointed they were cancelled.  But, James had a great attitude about it and still was able to join his team for some indoor play and treats instead.

Once again, we’re thankful for opportunities like this for our kids.  Experiences that expose them to all kinds of different sports and activities, as well as different kinds of people.  Such great lessons are learned when working together with others.

James, we’re proud of you for trying something new and for working so hard with the Cottonwood Giants this summer!  Great job!