For a little over three years now, I have been dating the man who's been my crush since grade school. Even though he says I'm the only one for him, something else stole his heart way before I came along. After playing baseball in high school and college, winning championships, and now coaching his own team, baseball is his everything. I wasn't sure what I was getting into at first, but here's twelve ways I know I've fallen for my baseball player:

1. Accepting that ball games are go-to date nights.

Whether it is a last minute dash to Omaha for the College World Series, a road trip down to Kauffman Stadium, or his brother's district title game, a night under the lights is on the same playing field as a candlelight dinner for two.

2. Ball-caps are officially a part of everyday attire.

Ditch the cute clothes and gorgeous hair that you spent hours doing. It's about how loud you can cheer on the team, not how you can catch their eye. Just as my baseball player has become a staple in my life, baseball caps are a staple in my closet.

3. Sunflower seeds are more important than water.

Before driving to the field, a mandatory pit stop at the gas station for some seeds is essential. It isn't a baseball game without them!

4. Adaptability is key from January to August.

Whether it is a toss up between rain delays, last minute scheduling of games, you've got to be game for just about anything. Date night plans will change and that's just what's to be expected.

5. Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

There'll be days where he won't be in the same state as you. He'll constantly be on a bus and be too tired most days to talk for long. He does miss and love you more than you will ever know.

6. Becoming a pro at pretending to know baseball.

Let's be honest, I admit to pretending like I know what I'm talking about when it comes to baseball terminology.

7. Knowing when to be supportive and/or quiet.

Baseball is full ups and downs. After three years, I've realized that sometimes it is best to give him some space after a loss. Other times, he might just need a hug and an "I love you."

8. Baseball butt gazing becomes the usual.

Each girl always comes to a baseball game for a least one butt glance. If she swears it's for the love of the sport, she's lying. My baseball boy has the best, just saying.

9. Learning how to throw pitches is mandatory.

Whether it be the two-seam or four-seam fastball, curveball, slider, or change-up, you don't just grip-it and rip-it, and hope to God it works out.

10. Random phone calls to vent happen regularly.

It could be at nine at night or one o'clock in the morning to talk about anything baseball. Just know that he trusts you and values your opinion. You may not understand everything, but always listen.

11. Always equipped with a roster just in case you can't remember who is who.

There may be upwards of 30 players on a roster. How the heck do you remember all those players!? Bookmark the athletic website on your phone, so you can always cheer on...what's his face..

12. Waiting after each game to give him a hug.

It doesn't matter if it's the end of a 9 inning game or a 40 game season, he will always be waiting to give you a bear hug each time. It's that split second that reminds you of why you love each other in the first place. Being in love with a baseball player will be difficult. You will probably cry, and you definitely think you aren't made out for the job. At the end of the day, it's not about that. It's about supporting someone in all their passions and actions, because you know they would do the exact same thing for you.