Batter Up!

Another tee ball season is here and this year both kids are in on the action.  I managed to get them both on the same team so that we could minimize the duplicate practices and games.  That also saves me from having to chase one around while the other practices.  Instead I get to chase them both around trying to get them to practice.  Tee ball is a hard sport for little kids because there is so much waiting around for a turn to catch, throw or hit.  When kids get bored they get distracted so keeping things moving is the way to go.

This is Ben's first season and it's definitely a building year for him.  He gets how to do most of the things which is good but it's keeping him focused long enough that is the issue.  He does love to bat and does a decent job hitting the ball.  I suspect he really just likes the fun hat but whatever keeps him out on the field works for me.

Helmet should read 'One Size Fits Most' - not Ben though.

McKenzie on the other hand is in her second season and what a difference a year makes.  At the first game she got very frustrated with her coach because the coach told her to let some of the other kids field the ball.  In a move that surprises me, I agree with Kenzie, I think it's important in practice to let everyone have a turn but in the game if my kid is moving to the ball and keeping the game going lets go with it.  She'll learn with time that others are closer and have a better shot at making the play but at this stage in learning the game it's all about remembering to throw the ball to first and Kenzie has that down.  I'm working to not become a crazed sports parent but it's hard to see your kid frustrated for doing good.

The real benefit of having both kids on the same team is watching them enjoy spending time together.  We are so lucky the kids get along so great most of the time.  Here they are when the game is in play.  Kenzie is telling Ben to get the ball when it comes and throw to first.  Shortly after this the ball was hit and Kenzie ran and got it, then she stopped tossed it to Ben and had him make the throw to first.  Love it.

Go Team!  It's all about just trying to not hit anyone with a wild throw and remember what base is next at this point.