The Closer

Sam and Andrew's baseball team, the AA Mariners, played a practice game last Saturday. Sam has been learning to bat left-handed this spring (he has always been a natural left-handed thrower), and it's been a tough road. He was discouraged after striking out twice, but managed a walk on his third at-bat. He played some terrific 1st base early in the game, but his shining moment came later.

The Mariners were winning 7-4 in the 6th. The pitcher was looking a little tired with 2 outs, and Sam was ready after warming up in the "bullpen" (the far corner of right field). Sam came into the game, and struck out the only batter he faced. He was thrilled to get the "save", and turn this game into a positive memory.

In the picture above where Sam is pitching, notice who is backing him up at 3rd.

Battle of the Books

Andrew's team, the "Cryptid Readers" won the Meredith Hill Battle of the Books last week! They had to read 16 books and answer questions about them in a school-wide competition. They will get their names engraved on the BOB placque that hangs in the library, and will compete again next week in the district battle. Congratulations Evan, Andrew and Kevon!

Just the Beginning

Baseball season is upon us, with kids playing and getting dirty, and parents freezing on the metal bleachers. These pictures are from a practice game the boys played last night.

Basketball, Better Late than Never

Andrew and Sam have been playing basketball this winter with some friends through a program at our YMCA. They are on different teams (because of age), but the teams share many siblings. Yesterday the played their final games, and we finally remembered to bring the camera. :)

Andrew was first yesterday, but the other team didn't show up. So, since there was a ref and they wanted to play, they had a scrimmage (normal shirts vs. inside-out shirts). It was a pretty even match-up, and fun to watch. My favorite image (above) is of Andrew flying through the air, trying to save a ball from going out of bounds.

Sam played yesterday too. Sam was a leader for his team, in scoring and rebounding. He also has good dexterity and dribbles well with both hands. Sam was good at trying to get his other teammates involved in the game.

Baseball is next, and they have already been practicing. They are playing together again this season, on the AA Mariners. Alan is helping coach, and I think I will be scorekeeper once the games begin in about a month. Should be fun!

Dear Andrew,....

Dear Andrew,
You are very good at humming and joking. You are a very good reader. You are stuffed with fun and joy.
Sincerely, Estela

Dear Andrew,
You are very good at music and singing. Your humming tones are good. You're good at math and writing. Your also helpful and kind!
From, Sarah J.

Dear Andrew,
You are very energetic. You always laugh at the right time. You are also a good singer. You like laughing and always smile. Happy Valentine's Day!
Your friend, Danielle

Dear Andrew,
You are a very active person.
Megan

Dear Andrew,
You are kind and fun. And most of all you're cool.
Peace out, Erin

Andrew,
You have been a great desk partner, and your working on keeping clean! I sometimes see you do math, and you consentrate really hard. You have a great persenality.
Hazel

Only the Facts for Andrew's Valentines

Andrew's class is working on "Kind Notes" to give out on Valentine's Day. True to his nature, Andrew tends to keep things very straight-forward. No gushy sentiment here, ladies. Here are some examples:

Dear Liana,
You are very kind. You usually finish your work fast because your not goofing off.
From Andrew

Dear Megan,
I like it how you never get into other peoples business. I think you are very kind to others.
From Andrew

Dear Gurjot,
I like it how you don't get stressed over hard assignments or work you don't want to do.
From Andrew

Dear Estela,
You are good at math. You are usually first done in contests and get 99 or 100 percent.
From Andrew

Mariners Fan Fest

Andrew and Mom spent the afternoon at Mariners Fan Fest. Andrew got to throw off the bullpen mound and catch pop flies. A good time was had by all. Meanwhile, Sam stayed home with Dad, still catching up on rest and relaxation after having a wayward baby tooth pulled on Friday. One down, one to go on that front. (ed. note.: that's Sam's tooth, not Dad's ;-)

Andrew and Sam are also in the middle of basketball season, learning the game and benefitting from good coaches. All in all, it's a busy time!