Robert Goes Paint Ball Shooting with Friends

On Monday of Spring Break, Robert and his friends - Ryan Danehy, Trevor DeGruccio, Trent, Brandon, Lucas and Jacob went Paintball shooting - gaming at Paintball Asylum (on the other side of Louisville).  We have never gone paintball shooting so this is a new experience.  

I know a good friend whose son was shot in the eye, and is now blind in that eye.  I am nervous to allow Robert to do this but also know that was preventable.  

The whole drive there Robert is sleeping in the front seat of the car.  At first I don't know if he is faking it, or if he's sick or if he's just tired.  It's so weird because his friends are in the back seat.  As soon as we get to Paintball Asylum, Robert throws up in their bathroom.  Now I know he was sick, but what I don't know (for sure) if it's car sickness or a stomach bug, but I think it's car sickness.  I just can't believe how sensitive Robert's stomach is - he is just like his dad.  The good news is that as soon after he throws up, he feels better.  That's a good sign.   

Before the boys are allowed out on the courses, they watch a safety video and hear safety precautions - of which the most important is the face and eyes.  They learn all the rules and safety measures.  Luckily, at the moment, they are the only ones at the place

The boys  purchase 1000 paint balls and get automatic guns - so the shooting should be fun.  They will have plenty to keep them busy for the 4 1/2 hours they will be here.  After they fill their guns and their ammunition tanks (canisters they can carry on them in their protective vests) they head over to get their guns pressurized.   

Once their guns are pressurized, they get to take some target practice before hitting the course.  The good news for me, is that there is a referee with them at all times.  My last thoughts are, "The boys are going to have a great time.  Don't worry."  

Robert - Ready for Action

Trevor, Brandon, Lucas, Ryan, Trent, Robert and Jacob ready to go

When I drive away, I have a terrible feeling that I am leaving him 40 minutes away.  I pray he will follow the rules and keep his helmet on at all times to stay safe.   Robert is a very obedient kid, but he also can get caught up in the action - I hope and pray he will be fine.

After 4 1/2 hours, Becky picks up the boys - they had a great time and no one was hurt.  They all followed the rules.  They actually ran out of paint balls before they expected.  CRAZY!