Getting in the Game

Last week we officially ended our first T-ball season and the Bierer family inaugural endeavor with team sport participation. It was an adventure. For the most part, I think Jack enjoyed participating. He was fond of his coaches, made new friends, loved his uniform, and was extremely possessive of his bat, glove, hat, and post game snack. All the boys learned the lingo. We are now a family who understands on deck, the bench, fielding, pitching, batting, rain outs, and make up games — a pretty good start for a family of boys.

We now own bats, balls, bases, and a tee. Everyone loves taking swings at the ball; and all goes pretty well as long as no one is too near the batter and everyone at least tries to adhere to the idea of taking turns.

The way I look at it, this spring was the beginning of at least 15 years of practices, games, equipment, and all the guts and glory of athletics. I can’t really think of anything I’ve done for 15 years. Scott and I haven’t even been married 10 years, let alone 15, so this brings me to the realization that I, the mom, may need a better game plan.

Don’t misunderstand me, I loved watching Jack learn and cheering on the SMOY – Blue Storms, but each practice and game posed some challenges for the Bierer family.

10 Things this Mom Learned from T-Ball

1. Bring extra snacks for your children who are not playing on the team.
2. Bring something to distract other children — 3 and 1 year olds can only be loyal fans for so long.
3. Reevaluate the contents of the diaper bag – sunscreen, bug spray, Band-Aids, and disinfectant are better choices than crayons and books.
4. It is alright to wear a dirty uniform to a game.
5. A 1 year old can climb fences FAST.
6. A 3 year old does not always understand that they are not part of the team.
7. Ball diamonds are dirty. Game night is ALWAYS bath night.
8. It’s alright to pray for rain.
9. Equipment costs can add up, especially if you miss place ball gloves.
10. Always know were the potties are located.

Number one T-ball rule according to Jack, "Don't kick dirt. The dust gets in the mommys' eyes."