Ella Jay has lived and breathed softball for years! She started in rec ball when she was only seven years old.  She had no experience but was quickly named J-Dog and stud by her coach. Her daddy played ball and she really took to the sport.  We eventually moved up to travel ball a few seasons ago.  It became more of a lifestyle and she fell even more in love with the game. 

Over the past few years, she has gone to camps, took private lessons, and has thrown herself into being a better player.  We have loved watching her in action! She has grown as a player and a person through softball. And she has made some incredible friends along the way. 

The last two seasons, Jay has really prayed about taking a break.  We have leaned into what would be best for her and for our family.  We have waited on God’s timing.  With sadness, excitement, peace, and wonder, we know that now is the time for that break.  

As we raise our kids and continue to grow as adults in life and in our faith, I have been challenged with this truth:

Just because you are good at something, doesn’t mean it’s the only thing you should be doing. 

Jay is great at softball but I think she could be really great at volleyball too.  I have put limits on myself my whole life.  I don’t want my kids to limit themselves just because they may be “good” at something else.  

Jay is excited to play volleyball (the sport I grew up playing) and continue doing theater, both with her sister. They are best friends and this will be such a rich time for them as sisters.  Our family will be able to gain more freedom in our weekend schedule and create a better balance for us to shape these girls before we launch them into the world! 

Jay might guest on softball teams for now, she may want to get back to the clay next season, or not. What I do know is that softball isn’t her identity.  Neither is volleyball.  Or theater.  Or fishing.  

Her knowing and believing her identity is first in Christ is my greatest desire as her momma.  

We had great times and really tough and emotional times in softball. We learned from them all and are grateful for the coaches on this journey.  Her dad, Storms, Coach Kerr, Coach Donnie, Coach Anna, Coach Miquel, Coach Shariena, Coach Stephany, Coach Hope, Coach Eric, and Coach Tim. And her hitting coach, Alan. They have shaped her in many ways.  May you always know the power of the title coach.  

Also, thank you to an amazing family and awesome friends who have come out to games and supported Jay and her team in various ways. 

Bigger than softball, I’m grateful for a community of friends to cheer with and battle with!  I will miss my people! 

We will also always be thankful that we were there for this last season with Impact to walk with, love, and support Shariena and her family as we all fought for Sammy. It’s where God needed us.  It’s where our heart needed to be.  We know we will be family forever.  Those babies are my heart! Shariena knows this doesn’t change our friendship and love for each other.  Impact forever! 

Ella Jay, you are a darn good second baseman and an even better kid! Thank you for working hard, being brave, and for showing Jesus to others through your love of softball. I want to be more like you. It’s been a blast to scream my head off cheering you on! I will never stop cheering for you! 

We are excited about what is to come.  God is leading the way and we are following.

It’s healthy to ask the question: Are you limiting yourself? 

Keep dreaming! Step out in Faith! Have courage. Watch God move! 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9