Sporty Advice and Spring Sports

Last year we got this letter from Carter's soccer coach.  I think it is written very well with some great advice.  It helps me keep things in perspective during all my kids sporting events--not just soccer.  So here's some wise words and some pics of all the kids enjoying their spring sports.  It's been so much fun!

• I recently took a team to a tournament out of state and the tournament director sent this advice to everyone attending the tournament. Having already put two kids through the soccer experience and working on a third, I can honestly say this is some of the best advice I've ever heard. It's geared a little more toward the Competitive-type player, but it is still good:
• "Take lots of pictures and movies. Right now it seems like soccer will go on forever, and there will always be more games and tournaments and trips to look forward to, but it ends in a heartbeat. Or at least it seems that way. ... Don't focus on the games, focus on your kids and their teammates and the other families you are getting to know. When it is over, you will be amazed at how much you enjoy reliving those experiences, especially when your children become adults.
• Kids are loyal to their teammates and coaches. When you criticize them, your children are put in a tough position and respond in a variety of ways. The one thing I know for sure is being in that position is not fun for kids. That is why you have a dog/spouse/significant other. Tell it all to them.
• ... Be like your kids. Care while they are playing, move on when the whistle blows. Stop talking about it, stop thinking about it and do something fun with your family.
• Sit back and enjoy your children and the wonderful things they do on a soccer field. ... See what is important, ignore what isn't.
• (Over the course of the coming season) you will spend some money, watch a lot of bad to outstanding soccer, witness some great refereeing and ugly coaching (or vice versa), struggle to find parking, misread a schedule, etc. etc. etc. I would submit to you that none of that matters. At the end of the day, here's what matters: Hug your kids, kiss your dog/spouse/significant other, spend as much time as possible enjoying your family, the weather and the joy of being together. Everything else is window dressing."

With that...here's some fun spring sport pics.....

Sarah has informed her brothers that yes, indeed, ballet is a sport.......

(Practicing before class in the back yard)

(Taking a break)

 Oh....and that they also do ballet moves!

(Tyler playing lacrosse at Ann Morrison Park--The Ravens)

 Lacrosse is a new experience for all of us.  Tyler played with some great friends and his speed made him avoid getting layed out all the time (although it happened many times.)  I think this will be a good sport for Tyler.

(Carrying the ball to the goal)

Carter's got the moves, too.

(Upward Basketball team--awesome St. Patrick's socks)

And the best part--he got to play with his good friend from New Hampshire.  This picture looks creepy, but it was just crazy hair day!

(Ethan and Carter on Crazy Hair Day!)

 Even tough Jordan was graceful!  He has played ever since October with Boise Slam.  It has been such a great experience for him.  He is just tough and he always gives 100%.  We even got to go to a tournament in Salt Lake City with his team.  It was a fun season.

(Jordan playing in Salt Lake with Boise Slam)

 Princess Ninja

 

The Pinewood Derby is also a sport, I guess.  Here is Carter working on his car after his football game.

 

And getting some unsolicited help from his sister.

And, of course, we can't forget Carter's Spring Flag Football Team--the Texans.  Here he is with his two buddies from school posing after a drenching, rainy practice.

 Bikes.....

 

 Playgrounds.

 

  Water Balloons.

 

 And back to dancing.  Sarah had so much fun in her spring dance class!  Oh how I love doing girl stuff with my girl.

(Getting ready for her Spring Recital)

(Me and my girl)

(But really, she's daddy's girl!)

 Piano and trumpet count as sports, too, because of the amazing amount of energy we use trying to get these boys to practice.

(This teacher is a saint.  She's done great with the boys.  The did so good at their recital.  We were pleasantly surprised!)

(Middle School Band Concert.  It actually sounded really good!)

I'm actually sad all of these fun things are coming to and end this year.  The last games were today.  I took some of the advice from the letter and really enjoyed their activities.  Great families, good coaches, cool breezes, new skills, and just gratitude that we can participate!

 But we will enjoy a little extra free time until the next season starts!