Opening Day 2008

On Sunday, Rory continued her Opening Day ballgame streak (two in person, one in utero) by attending the Nationals opener against the Braves. The event was all the more momentous because it marked the premiere of Nationals Park, the new (amazing!) venue for the Washington Nationals. Rory (and the rest of her family) had her Uncle Allen to thank for scoring the tickets. Pictured here, Rory checks out George Washington. But first ...
...The day began with Rory trying on her hat from last year. Fortunately, it still fit.
It did not fit Uncle Mike.
Uncle Allen continued his generosity by giving Rory a new Nats jersey, which she enthusiastically donned for the game.
We arrived several hours before the game so that we had plenty of time to check out the new stadium and see batting practice.
Allen and Chelle made quite an impression on Rory; everytime they wandered away, Rory would ask for them by name: "Chelle? Allie?"
Uncle Mike was Rory's personal chariot each time she commanded "Go!".
Rory will forever have the distinction of being the first child to play on the jungle gym in the Kids Zone.
But the real attraction for Rory was the rockin band that played the stadium. Rory had a great view.
Rory left on the early side so that she could catch a few ZZZZZs (thanks for driving Mommy!), but the night was just beginning for the rest of us.
Uncle Allen had scored really great seats! Here's the view of the Nats getting introduced.
Here's the view of the high-definition scoreboard (that's President Bush as he takes the field for the First Pitch).
Here's the view of President Bush throwing the first pitch! The Nats would go on to beat the Braves when Ryan Zimmerman hit a homerun in the 9th inning.