America's pasttime...like never before

Yesterday was a day for the memory album. I think it's safe to say that Ryan probably had the day that, years from now (and today frankly), he will refer to as one of the best days of his life.

We went to see some baseball...but we experienced it like never before.

Friday night we went to see Casey's cousin Jeff's team play the Rangers. He pitches for the Rays, but wouldn't be pitching in the Texas series. After the game we headed to a restaurant to meet Jeff and some family for a little while.

Jeff took some time to give Ryan a few pitching tips.
Then he asked if we were coming to the Saturday game. We weren't sure. It was supposed to 100+ degrees. He told Ryan if we came a few hours early he could come out and play catch with the team...

...play catch on the field with the Tampa Bay Rays (#1 in the AL East right now, I might add)!

Oh my...Ryan looked at us with wide eyes and we, of course, said we'd be there.

And we were!

This shot will be hanging in Ryan's room by the end of the week!

This one will probably be hanging in my office!

Jeff was so amazing to the kids. It was the absolute coolest day
(even though it was over 100 degrees). Ryan got to go into the dugout, into the bullpen, into the locker room, get his hat signed by about a dozen players.

Thank you, Jeff, for making an incredible day of memories for my kids! We are easily five of your biggest fans!!