Colin and Dad to the I Cubs Game

On a perfect night to sit outside and watch a baseball game, Colin and I travelled to Des Moines to watch the I-Cubs take on the Oklahoma City Red Hawks (triple A of Texas Rangers). Arriving when the gates opened Colin was anticipating playing on the Tunnel System of Prinicpal Park, but that didn't happen. Once a month the Des Moines Register closes the playground prior to the game to allow children to get autographs from the I-Cub players and be lectured by a member of the Register staff.

While waiting for the playground to open Cubbie Bear entertains all of the fans. This was a big highlight of the night for Colin.

However Colin was noticeably not as excited to get his picture taken with possible future Chicago Cub players. Above he is with LHP John Gaub and below he is with RHP Greg Reinhard.

Colin also took the time to take a few swings of batting practice.

The tunnel system finally opened minutes before first pitch. Once Colin entered the playground it was tough to convince him it was time to watch a little baseball.

As the system of slides brought wide smiles.

Once inside it was time to watch the best of the minor league system. Colin and Daddy had great seats courtesy of good friend Tom Greene, Director of Stadium Operations for the I-Cubs.

Leading off for the OKC Red Hawks was reigning Home Run Derby Champion Josh Hamilton who was on a rehab tour in the Rangers' Minor Leagues System. On this night he was definitely trying to show his big league power, but not one pitch that we saw was hit out of the ballpark.

Members of the Quick Trip Hot Dog stand raced around the Principal Park infield. Egg Roll was tonight's winner.

Before we left for the night Colin wanted to take one more turn at the playground equipment.

The sun sets on Principal Park with the State Capitol in the background. Temperatures were in the low 70s with a slight wind and little humidity. There couldn't be a better night to be sitting at a baseball game with your little buddy. We left in the eighth inning for Colin to play and witnessed a scoreless tie. Once we left the park in the ninth the game was preparing for extra innings. Oklahoma City won the game in 14 innings, 1-0.