Table Tennis Rivalry Tides Shift as the Basement Tournament Enters its Second Month

After a numerous string of emotional defeats over the previous weeks at the hands of his father, Grafton's ever-improving table tennis skills finally lifted him to his first decisive triumph on Saturday evening. The following morning, with his confidence still buoyed by his initial win only hours earlier, Grafton proceeded to hand down three more defeats over a four game series on mid-Sunday morning.

His father, during his post-tournament press conference, shared his mixed emotions, which spanned the spectrum of bruised ego to brimming pride.

Future matches can be attended most evenings through the winter and early spring. Tickets are still available.

Financial reality

"$30 doesn't go that far at Dick's Sporting Goods", said Grafton, after trying to spend a birthday gift certificate there today.

Eight year old can put in his own batteries

Mom was trying to help Grafton install batteries into his bedtime reading light on his birthday when he declared that, "Mom, I'm 8 years old! I can put in my own batteries!"

Another Tooth Gone

Grafton's second front tooth feel it today. Not unexpected after Grafton showed us a bloody sink after brushing his teeth last night.

All 4 front teeth are now out.

"History of Baseball"

Grafton has been very excited about his school project where each student is writing their own book. He was even worried about missing the "publishing" step when he was taken out of school for his dentist appointment.

Dentist today

Grafton and I got good laugh from the sign he saw at the dentist office today: 

You don't have to brush all your teeth.

You only have to brush the ones you want to keep.

Final Days of Baseball

Grafton's last baseball practice was a parent-kids match-up (parents vs. kids). Grafton and I arrived a few minutes late, and his team was up to bat. He headed straight to home plate for an at bat, while I hustled on to the field to play outfield. Grafton had already hit the ball and was rounding the bases while I was taking the field. He was rounding second after the 2nd base throw missed its target. The ball was rolling straight for me, and I picked it up just in time to tag my son while he headed towards the third base. The uncanny timing of the play had everyone yell out in surprise and laughter, while Grafton walked off the field shaking his head.

Two outs later, the parents were up to bat. I was up third and soon took the plate for my at bat. On the first pitch I hit a pop-up fly to third base. Grafton was the third base man. The ball went right to him, and he called "I've got it!" and made the catch like a pro. He got me right back!

The next day was Grafton's last game of the season. They played one of the stronger teams they've faced all season, but did really well. Grafton had some great hits. He ended up being the last batter of the game, and his last hit was a line drive shot to the outfield. It was an easy double, but due to throwing/catching errors, he ran the bases and came home, arms in the air, celebrating his in-the-park home run. Nice end to the season!