Baseball

Rudy's baseball season ended this week. It started out really rough. He was scared going into the season because it was 'kid pitch' and he was sure he was going to get hurt. In the first game, he got hit (barely) then spent the next 4-5 weeks jumping out of the batter's box as the pitcher released the ball. Finally, after a lot of practice, some time at a batting cage, baseball with Paul and some friends, he began to get more confident. Then about 4 games ago, he started swinging. Then about two games ago, he started actually making contact (and grounding out- but we all called it a hit). And then in the last game of the season, he got a hit. I wish the season went on for a few more weeks, but hopefully, when he plays in the fall, we won't be starting over again.

Rudy in the outfield with his hand up to his eyes.

Batting.

Swinging.

Warming up (with the ball right in front of him as it's being caught.)

Ready for the throw.

Batting.

Baseball

Rudy had a great season of baseball this year. His skills have really improved and this year he tried out, and really enjoyed, being catcher.

These are pictures from the Championship game. His team lost, but had a great year,

He wanted to go to Rita's after the game. His trophy had to come with us, but he didn't want a picture with him and his trophy and his water ice. I had to try, though.

Memorial Day Parade

Rudy's baseball league walked in our town's Memorial Day parade. Parents could walk along with the kids, so Paul and I joined in.  First we walked from our house to the starting area.

Only three members of the red team made it.

Hanging out before the parade.

Walking through town.

In the beginning Rudy was really into waving to all the people watching the parade.

Some of the spectators (in front of Paul and my dream house).

Nearing the end of the parade. Rudy was doing pretty well on the walk, but he'd had a long weekend so far. At the church ahead, if we made a left, our house is just 3 blocks away. So as we approached I asked him if he wanted to just go home, and he said yes. So we cut out of the parade a little early and headed home.

Baseball Star

As the baseball season draws to a close, I finally had the chance to take some pictures. Rudy had a great year. Baseball definitely seems to be the sport he enjoys the most. It's a hard sport because there is a lot of downtime in the field, but he had some great coaches who kept him directed to the game and really motivated him. Here are some pictures of him batting.

And on the field- first and second graders use a pitching machine.

It's always a danger when Rudy plays near the pitcher's mound and the coach walks away to retrieve the balls. Rudy's natural curiosity takes over and he has to get as close to the machine as he can and try to figure it out. He was constantly being reminded to step back and not touch.

Batter up.

And a short video of him batting.