Rylan's First Pitch

A few weeks ago, Rylan had the awesome opportunity to throw out the first pitch at a Texas Rangers spring training game. Earlier this year, Ron won season tickets at a charity auction, and part of the package came with a suite for one game and the privilege of throwing out the first pitch. Who better to do that than our little baseball player?! Mommy was a little nervous since the game started right at naptime, but we managed to avoid a meltdown in the middle of the field like she was imagining. Rylan did such a great job, and naturally, the crowd loved him! Especially when he did his signature lift up his leg move =). Mommy and Papa were very proud and it was definitely a special experience that we will always remember.

Waiting before the game...definitely the hardest part for a 2 year old!

The whole family. Presley just had to watch this time, but maybe in a few years she will get her turn ;)

More waiting, but right next to the action now!

Rylan and Papa getting ready to go out

Watching the marines carry out the flags

Singing the National Anthem

Time to go!

Heading out to the pitcher's mound...or in his case, the edge of the dirt

What do I do Papa?

Ready!

Just before the leg pick up. Even with several people taking pictures, we didn't manage to get one with it in the air =(

Papa managed to catch a little bit of it on video in the midst of all the excitement (you'll just have to turn your head for part of it). You can't see a lot, but at least you can hear what was going on and hear the crowd.

Yay! He did it (and it was actually a pretty good pitch)! Listening to his applause as the catcher hands him his special ball.

Heading out to the real pitcher's mound! I think he thought he was going to get to play the rest of the game =)

Papa and Rylan heading off the field and checking the stands for their fans (a.k.a. Marmee and Pop Pop!)

Can't forget about our beautiful little Presley! Relaxing in the suite to enjoy the rest of the game.