The boys of ... September

The last time I took Jack to a Royals game, he was 18 months old. And although it was down on our list of things to do this summer, we never made it. So when some neighbors recently offered us free tickets and a parking pass, we jumped at the chance. It was a Sunday afternoon, the seats were great, the weather was ideal and it was the last home game of the year!

Zack Greinke walked right in front of us — from the bullpen down the first-baseline to the pitcher's mound — and brought the whole stadium to its feet. On Nov. 17 we find out if he wins the Cy Young Award.

The day before, we bought some fundraiser candy from a kid who came to our door, and I brought it along. Jack waited patiently 'til the fourth inning to tear 'em open.

After a little while longer, we got up to walk around and explore "The New K."

You never could go behind the outfield, at this level, before.

I still remember taking a family "vacation" from Nebraska to Kansas City for the weekend when I was little — probably about Jack's age (oh man, I sound old) — and coming to my first Royals game. And being enamored with the fountains.

The Outfield Experience has lots of activities for all the little Royals fans.

I let Jack choose one activity, and he picked this one where you sprint to first base and get to compare your time with a current Royals player.



Then we found the Hall of Fame, where even the sign was interactive.

A real A-hole.

I can't decide which of these next two pictures I like best ... so I'm including them both.


After playing, we snagged some new seats and sat down again to catch the end of the game. The Royals beat the Twins, 4 to 1!