Baby Bobcat

To our surprise, Ohio University made it to the MAC Basketball Tournament, which just so happens to be held in Cleveland. The game was Saturday at 6p, so we said "What the heck? Lets try and go with Jack." So, it was Jack's first basketball game.

We went in with reasonable expectations. Our goal was to make it to halftime and then come home. We figured that it would be a fun family activity and would give Jack a little taste of a big sporting event. So, off we went. We packed a "survival bag," filled with sippy cups, toys, snacks, and our cloth baby carrier and headed downtown.

First stop was the OU Alumni Pep Rally at a downtown restaurant, Zocalos. Then, we headed over to Quicken Loans Arena and had dinner at a sit down restaurant. We figured that would be the easiest way to eat and that we'd have the best chances of Jack enjoying himself on a full belly. We literally finished dinner as the game was about to begin. Off to our seats we went. Although we had tickets down low, we decided that it would be best for Jack if we sat up higher...in a less crowded area so that he could move around a bit. That was a really good decision.

To our surprise, Jack really seemed to show interest in all that was going on. Mike pointed out things around him, like the OU Bobcat mascot, the band, the basketball teams, the fans, the lights and fans that hung way up high (which of course, Jack loved), and all the lighted signs throughout the arena. Jack was a bit mesmerized. He even seemed to watch the game as they were playing. Before we knew it, it was halftime and we were still in our seats. Even more amazing, Jack was completely content.

We decided that halftime was a perfect time to stretch his legs, so we went on a big walk. Jack held Mike's hand and walked throughout the concourse. It was so cute to see. Back up to our seats we went. It was getting close to Jack's bedtime, so, again, we were cautious about our staying power. Jack cuddled up and got a little sleepy, so I put him in the cloth carrier and we walked for a bit as he fell asleep. Still, we were at the game, and having a really enjoyable time.

Would you believe that the game went into overtime? And that Jack woke up in time to see the overtime. The game was intense-- with lead changes and excitement-- and ultimately a win for OU! If this doesn't seal the deal on Jack becoming a future Bobcat, I'm not sure what will! Maybe we'll have to sneak him into a Little Sibs Weekend! Anyway, Jack went to his first game and brought home an overtime tournament victory for our team. And, he was a JOY! Who would have thought we'd make it for a full game + overtime!?!? Nice work, Champ.