Today Ava Stepped Up To The Plate

You had a busy day! First, you and mom went to Aunt Beth's house for a bridal shower for Dianne. Then, once you got home from that we packed back up and drove to Shelby for a cookout at mom's Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Terry's house. 

Catching passes from cousin Jordan.

It was fun, there was a lot of family and also kids your size. They have plenty of land for you to run around. A "Free Range Baby" as I jokingly comment sometimes.

Before you were born, mom and I promised each other you would enjoy being outside. We didn't want you to be one of those kids that sit in front of the TV all day. So far, I think we've reached our goal. You love going outside and it showed tonight. 

You were all over the place. It was great. 

There's a lot of memories to walk away with from today but one sticks out more than others. 

Today, you stepped up to the plate. 

There was a tee and plastic balls and bat set up for the kids in the yard and when no one else was around it, we gave it a shot. 

Our little slugger!

I wasn't sure how you would react, sometimes - like me - you don't like to be forced to do something. With a ball on the tee, we grabbed the bat and I placed your hands in the proper grip - or as close to it as you would allow - and we took a swing.

You loved it. My arms blocked your view on the follow through and you strained to see your accomplishment. We put another ball on the tee and tried again. You again strained to see the ball after the bat made contact. The look on your face is something I'll remember forever. 

After a few swings we took a break and went to get mom. She came over to watch as I hoped you would still be interested. Were you ever! 

We took a number of swings and each one was the same, contact with a hard look at the ball. 

We do have to work on one thing, don't look at the ball after you make contact, just run!