Photo bySteven LibralononUnsplash

Squashed between the grand states of New York and Massachusetts, there lies a whimsical little state named Connecticut, often called CT for short. Inhabited by a bunch of cheeky, cheese-loving chipmunks and a population of super smart humans, Connecticut is a place where the rivers tickle the toes of the old oak trees and the hills roll on like a herd of lazy, lounging lobsters. Now, within this enchanting state, there's a wildly popular game that has all the kiddos buzzing just as much as Mrs. Maple's famous honey-glazed donuts. It's called Gaga Ball, but don’t let the name deceive you, it has nothing to do with famous pop singers or baby talk! Imagine a pit filled with a swarm of jumping, dodging, and giggling kids, all chasing around one elusive ball like a bunch of sugar-hyped hummingbirds. That's Gaga Ball, CT style! And the kids who play it? They are a breed of their own. First, there’s Billy “Bulldozer” Baxter, a ten-year-old tank of a kid who can send the ball flying like a comet with a single whack. Then there’s tiny Tina “Twinkle Toes” Thompson, who darts around so fast you’d think she was a lightning bug. And let's not forget Freddie “Froggy” Finch, known for his spectacular leaping saves that would make a kangaroo jealous. Oh, the joy and laughter that fill the CT air when the Gaga Ball game is on! You'll hear the cheers echo through the valleys, over the babbling brooks, and bouncing off the belly of the big blue Connecticut sky. Life is a hoot when you're a Gaga Ball kid in CT!