Today is the BIG day. My husband and I are in GA at the World Series with our son, Parker. Last night excitement was in the air…but that’s not all that was in the air! Three parachute jumpers with red smoke shooting from their shoes opened the ceremonies with a dramatic entrance onto the local football field of Lagrange, Georgia. Next, they introduced each of the 11 teams representing their state (we are representing Tennessee, of course) and announced each player by name. It was a touching moment. Out of 2000 teams that participated in the beginning tournaments, only 12 teams remain in the 11/12 division. We were one of them. It was in that moment that we realized…whether we win, lose, or tie, it’s an honor to have made it this far.
Before the ceremonies began, the boys were fed Barbecue, a favorite southern dish, and invited to share State pins with the other participants. Parker secured his pins from each state on his World Series towel for safe keeping. That’s a treasure I hope he keeps for the rest of his life.
After the teams were seated, school aged gymnastics’ thrilled and entertained us with their skills. Acknowledgments were made to the community for all their support. The mayor and the Dixie Youth commissioner was thanked for all their hard work, and an special honor was given on one of the Dixie Youth officials who had attended all 53 World Series.
Our own Jay Roden hit 17 home-runs in the first round of the “Home-Run Derby.” In the second round, he hit 6 more landing him third place and the owner of a new baseball glove! Go Jay!!! The night closed with a breath taking display of fireworks and confetti!!
We play our first game tonight at 6:00. As butterflies dance in the stomachs of the players, coaches, and parents, we’d appreciate your prayers…for safety, endurance to play in these scorching hot temperatures, good sportsmanship, strength, quick legs, wise judgment at bat, and a memory building experience for all!! On a side note, please pray that none of us get sick like we did at State, nor have the bathroom door opened for all to see when I’m trying to “potty” in private!
Oh, if you see me on T.V, I’m the one with the fancy orange and white finger nails! If we go all the way, I’ve promised to dye my hair orange!
Stay tuned!!
On Purpose says
So I am most definitely praying today for you. Praying that as a family you are all loving and living in this incredible moment! How Awesome!!
I am also praying:
1-For all potty moments to be private!
2-That your hair will be orange soon!
3- That your son has a blast!
Blessings and love to your wonderful family.
redsoxmom says
I can so relate to your baseball experiences. My son plays 11-year old travel ball (soon to be 12). We just got back from a Cal Ripken tournament in Myrtle Beach a few weeks ago. What a wonderful experience that was! I highly recommend it!! Our team’s colors also include orange (and blue). My daughter and I paint our nails orange and/or blue when they play. Aren’t we baseball moms funny? I am praying for your family and all involved for safety and wonderful memories. Best of luck in the tournament!
Linda
Sharon Sloan - Joy In The Truth says
How exciting!
Will be looking for your orange hair! 🙂 Go team!
Renee Swope says
Oh my goodness! Pat got to go. I am just catching up on your blog. What happened at work? I guess you are going to TX? You have just got to catch me up girl. I can’t wait to hear how our great God made a way where there was no way.
Love you. I’m rootin’ for a big win and some orange hair!!!!