Let's talk softball in your 40's

Well, I'm in my *ahem* early 40's and I have recently joined a softball team.

Now, I am thinking the last time I played I was in my 20's. So, this is a stretch, you know? 20 years is a very long time. And even though I attended what seemed like hundreds and hundreds of Kristen's games, when handed the scorebook the first night I was a little lost (it did all come back to me, but there was a moment of panic).

Some things that I have found different playing softball in your 40's as opposed to your 20's for me are:

This whole arthritis thing. I can barely grip the stupid bat, and when I make contact, it hurts! Note to self: Buy some freaking batting gloves!

I cannot tolerate hecklers in the stands. At all.

I am so not serious about the game. I spent the last game complimenting the shoes of a guy on the opposing team that was just knocking them out of the park. I started calling the poor guy "Shoes" when he came up to bat.

Flirting is a strategy. (I was playing catcher) I flirted with a guy on the other team and he swung & missed so hard he nearly fell down. Very flattering that he was trying that hard to show off for me. Of course, he was in his 20's...which is just too pervy to comment on.

In my 20's, I would have been embarrassed to have a guy on my team running the bases on my heels. In my 40's, I appreciate the push.

In my 20's, I would have been embarrassed to fall under the legs of the center-fielder when we collided for the same fly ball. In my 40's, it's hilarious.

In my 20's, I cared who won. In my 40's I'm proud of myself for being able to walk un-assisted to the car after the game.

Basically, it's a blast.