Take Me Out to the Ballgame

We had THE BEST time at Target Field on Husband’s birthday!

We have been looking forward to the time when Lucy would be old enough to enjoy going to a game, and I think we did alright. She was very excited to go, and once we got there I can only imagine all of the things her little head was taking in.

She was little fidgety and whiney at times, but I think overall she did outstanding for being four years old in an overwhelming atmosphere. We spent one inning walking the concourse and getting popcorn, but otherwise she was in or near her seat. She asked a ton of questions (surprise) and seemed to enjoy herself. She really liked holding up her sign between innings and kept asking if she was getting circled. I don’t think she did, but she had fun trying! Clapping and chanting were also a hit, and over course singing Take Me Out to the Ballgame. She was also very interested in when we were going to see “JaMauer” [Joe Mauer]. It was an absolutely gorgeous afternoon in the 70s, with a little cloud cover to keep the sun from feeling too hot. A perfect game day.

After games on Sundays, kids under 12 are allowed to run the bases. As we were trying to figure out where to go, we saw a line down by the field and figured that was where we needed to be. Turns out, it was a line to get an autograph or photo with a player. We didn’t know who the guy was, but figured, why not? Turns out it was Andrew Albers, a rookie who two nights later pitched 8 1/3 innings in a shut-out in his Major League debut. Lucy got a big kick out of seeing him on TV lastnight. What a great memory for her, and she’s already telling the story to anyone who will listen. Hope this guy continues to do well…Mr. Albers, we are watching you!

We found the right place to go to run the bases, and went into the bowels of the stadium to emerge near right-center field. We walked along the warning track with TONS of other kids and their parents, until we reached first base. At first Lucy wanted Husband or I to run with her, but once she got up there, she took off all by herself and followed the other kids around to home plate. It was so fun to see, and she thought it was awesome. She told me “I was running really fast! Sometimes I was kicking my butt!” J What a special treat for her, and for us to see and experience with her. It’s pretty damn cool to be on the field (even if we couldn’t touch the grass).

It was a simply wonderful family day. Baseball is something I grew up with and have always enjoyed, and Husband has been a lifelong fan of the Twins. There is nothing like being at a Major League ballpark – I still get excited about it! It was so fun to share our love of the game with Lucy. Hopefully it has inspired a lifelong love for her, too, and a new tradition for us as a family.