It's Not Whether You Win or Lose...

There's some truth to the old adage that "It's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game." I was reminded again tonight that there is still some fun to be had on the losing side. There can still be a positive experience.

We wrapped up our Assumption Middle School baseball season this afternoon with a double-header at home versus St. Pete's (from Stevens Point). Carter just couldn't seem to connect with the ball like he has been this week, but that is just a teeny tiny memory compared to what else happened.

First of all, I will spoil this and tell you we lost both games by a bunch. Just didn't want you to get your hopes up this was a come-from-behind rally for a victory.

In the second game, Carter got to play second base. He likes that. It keeps him on his toes and he did well with it. Then, the last inning I see him walking toward the pitcher's mound. What is he doing? He's never pitched on the "big field." Can he even throw it far enough to reach the plate? Oh boy. This could get embarrassing.

Watching him warm up, I was convinced this wasn't going to be pretty. But then, as it sometimes happens, I was pleasantly surprised.

First batter up. First pitch. Strike!

What? How did he do that?

Before I could register what was happening, he struck out -- yes, struck out -- the first batter.

Second batter up. First pitch. Strike!

What? Is this for real?

Before too many pitches were thrown, the second batter struck out, too!

Whose kid is that??

Third batter up. First pitch. Strike!

He's a rock star! Two balls, then the batter got a piece of it and hit a grounder to the infield. Carter scooped it up and threw him out at first! This half inning was all his!

He's totally a rock star now! Good thing those 7th-grade girls were there watching!

They couldn't rally in their last at bat, but that hardly mattered. Carter could not stop smiling. Neither could his mom! Too bad that was the last game of the season. And good thing there is plenty more playing time between his league team and tournament team. This summer is going to be fun!

After his games, we had to book it out to Golden Sands Speedway to see how our nephew Colin was faring in his debut. First race of the season in his new super late model #44.

Jim got out there before we did (and missed Carter's pitching debut) so he let us know Colin's good news right away. He qualified fast time! What an exciting night this was shaping up to be.

During the 75-lap feature, he worked his way up to 4th and we were looking at a top-5 finish for his first race. But the thing about racing (and every sport) is that it ain't over 'til it's over. His car had an electrical problem that put him out of the race with just 22 laps to go. Bummer!!

So sad for him but the crew was excited about his fast time and how well Colin was handling the car. There was plenty to be taken away from this night that can be applied to the next race.

Like I said, whether these 2 "kids" win or lose, this is going to be a fun summer!