Lessons learned

She followed my every move this morning. Down to the chickens, back up to the house, fixated on me through the windows while I made breakfast, lunches and cleaned up. She trampled as many lilies and other pretty living things in the backyard as she could when I was trying to take pictures. Note to self: wear her out before photo sessions in the backyard.

Everything is growing well this year from all the rain, including the weeds. The clematis has begun to bloom,

the ferns have had a big growth spurt since I repotted them,

these little yellow flowers almost succumbed to Sunny's rampage,

and the lilacs are just about to pop open, I can smell them already.

Seems like I'm perpetually tired the past few days, especially today which I know is from too little sleep last night. The baseball season ended with an exciting game and a third place standing. They went into the playoffs in first place, so it was quite a blow to John to have lost last night, especially given how hard he played. Although it's bittersweet, despite the fact he has come so far in his abilities and was nominated for the all-star team, and even though we swell with pride when he leads every cheer for his teammates, we know in the end that sometimes the most valuable lessons are learned from not winning. And so we are thankful always for things just the way they are.

All-American

So began the summer season this past weekend, with the hot, muggy weather, cookouts, the pool and family gatherings. Each year is so different from the last and I often stop to take note of the changes in our children. Now when I say, "please go shuck the corn", they can, and they do it well. I feel like I have not only a band of mess-makers, but also a band of helpers and doers and it's no longer the one woman show it once was.

Of course, they add their special touches to the process.



After eating way too much, there was a mandatory game of wiffle ball. John raced out to the field immediately following dinner with his Radio Flyer loaded down with baseballs, gloves and even a heavy, metal pitching machine (don't really know how he got it in there) so he could throw in a little big boy baseball/hitting practice too.

The game is far from regulation and is more about hitting, running, falling, giggling, rolling around in the grass, stealing bases and trying not to get tagged by Daddy. With the increasing age of the children, so increases the seriousness of the batting.

First up, we have, Miss "enough strikes to exhaust the pitcher".


Followed by our natural who hits best when she tries the least.


Then they get down to business.


It could only have been more American if there were apple pie involved, but there's always next weekend. Meanwhile, they're succeeding in making my heart melt a little more each day.

Take me out

Sitting on metal bleachers when it's 40 degrees with 20mph wind for an hour and a half seemed more like an endurance test than baseball practice. It was worth it though, in a mom sort of way, to see him stand up a little taller, walk a little prouder and nod to his coach with all the seriousness of a big leaguer. There are things a mom can't teach and for that reason, I'm thankful for baseball. I remind myself also that I'll be melting into those same bleachers come June.

The knitting came along, providing much needed therapy for shoulders and hands so tired and in knots from crocheting. A newborn sweater, the size of which takes my breath away and causes the baby memories to flood back in.

And in all the fun I was having, I missed a rare opportunity. Kevin called me four times to see if I'd eaten and if he could take me out on a date after practice. He gave up after the fourth time when an elderly man answered the phone.

"Where's your phone, babe?" he asked me when I came in.

"In my purse I'm pretty sure, why?"

"Because an old man answered when I called you. They cancelled bible study tonight and since my parents were lined up I thought I'd take you out. Seriously, where's your phone?"

"I left it in my purse in the car while I was watching practice."

"Doesn't do much good there, does it?"

"Oh I see...you called at 5:33, 5:37, 5:49 and 5:50. Maybe I have a stowaway in the car answering my calls."

We have this conversation often. Whenever I have my phone with me I get calls from telemarketers, which reinforces my belief that I only need it for emergencies. That's why it stays in the car for things like baseball practice. No emergency, no cell phone required. Anyway, I'd already eaten.

Rememorable

A patient once told me a story about something in her life so "rememorable" that she just had to share it. Of course I filed her word away for later use.

This season in baseball has been just that, one that is so full of good moments that I want to remember them over and over. In a short time, John has gone from a boy who could barely play catch to one who can now make a play at second and even hit it into the outfield from time to time. He has struggled, worked, played, listened and soaked up everything he could.

We will remember this coach. His quiet strength, patience, encouragement and influence have nurtured John in such a way that we stand back in awe, thankful that there are adults other than ourselves loving our children along their way.

We will remember this team. Happy little boys of 7 and 8 who cheer, pat on the back, say "you can do it John!", and hand out gum when things aren't going well. This team who could have picked on and poked fun at one of its littlest, are amazed at how far he's come. To watch other children admire his hard work and unfailing dedication is like love falling from the sky and wrapping it's arms all around us.

He will play in the championship playoff game in just a few nights. A huge achievement, and a testament to the fact that sometimes good really can prevail.

Opening Day

This is one of the few moments I could catch John standing still today. It was opening day for baseball and despite the clouds, patches of rain and strong wind, it was a great start to the season. They won 11-3! John's first at bat produced a strong hit past the pitcher, second baseman and centerfielder for a single and scored a run! His fielding was incredible and I'm just amazed at what he can do all while being one of the smallest guys on the team. John, you rock!


The girls hung in there, snacks always help!





It also helps that they saw friends from school, made some new ones and even visited a bit with Lauren and John's principal. I love this town.