Go Nats!

I took this photo at Oliver's last Nats game. It was the end of their 2018 season. Nats games had become a typical Sunday activity for our family. We took the kids to many games over the years, but after Waverly died, we bought a Sunday package. Every Sunday when they were in town, we went. Oliver got to run the bases after the game when he was still walking. Our first year we sat in the sun and quickly learned it was simply too hot for him (and me), so our second year we upgraded to shade seats.  We saw the Nats play in spring training on a trip to Disney World. Oliver received a personalized jersey for Christmas. 

Last year we opted to forgo the package and just went when Oliver was having a good day. We didn't know if he was up for as many games. So they became that much more special for us. The Nats provided us with a little bit of normalcy in what always felt abnormal. Nats Park is fully accessible, with lots of seating options for fans with mobility issues. Oliver was handed batting practice balls from ushers and free cotton candy in the later innings. 

When he was younger, he used to love watching any sport. He slept with a football for almost his entire life. He always had good hand-eye coordination. And we have a video of him learning to kick a ball when he was two years old. As he grew up and Sanfilippo took a greater hold on his mind and body, we never quite knew how much he understood the game. However, he was always calm when we were at the park. The roar of the crowd didn't seem to bother him. We sometimes had to pull out the iPad so he could enjoy some Mickey Mouse, but for the most part, he simply enjoyed the day out.

Our Nats are playing remarkably well this year. I am watching them right now in game one of the World Series. Matt and I have been devoted fans this season. And watching them get to this stage has been amazing. They are a remarkable team. In my magical thinking, I like to think they are doing this for Oliver. Like this is all a cosmic wink from our boy.

Whatever you are doing, Oliver, keep it up. Your Dad and I are loving cheering for our team. Your jersey is hanging in your room. Your hat is hanging on your bedpost. Your birthday baseball decorations are still on your bedroom walls. We often have one of your baseballs in our hands for good luck.

Go Nats! Thanks for making this year a little bit magical for us.