Runner Track

For as long as I can remember, Gage has been wanting to run track.  He used to call this "runner track" when he was much younger.  Then, he began to think that all races were 5Ks so he always asked to run 5Ks.  But, now, he has it all figured out (a bit better) and is officially registered for his first sport!  (I'm not sure who is more excited.)

We would not have put him in track just to make me happy, but he has always been genuinely interested. (you know how that goes)  We waited for all kinds of reasons, but we really had to wait until Leila was old enough to handle practices and meets, as I just haven't had 'easy' children.  She would have liked to have been registered as well, but she's just not old enough... but, I think they'll find all kinds of uses for her.

Not only is his uniform John Deere green, but he is plain excited that he has a new responsibility.  That's the best way I know how to word this excitement.  I hope he handles wins or losses with a smile, but I think he will, as school has been good for that... and because there are so many practices and so few meets, that I think he'll get used to the idea of just going out there to do his best and to have fun.

Not that I should need an excuse to get out of the lake once summer hits, but I am glad for a scheduled reason to get out of the lake with my kids for a few days each week.  Something tells me they will benefit from a social life in and out of the lake.   After all, aren't experiences part of what keeps us well-rounded?  And, yes, mom is very happy to have a track scene back in her life.

Coaching was one more thing I left behind in Athens and haven't dabbled with since moving and getting married.  I had no idea how difficult it would be to leave so much of what makes me 'me'.  And kids ultimately ask you to redefine your roles anyway, so I never had a problem not coaching (actually I turned down offers for three years).  In fact, I am really excited for a new role of 'loud mom in the bleachers.'  But, who knows, maybe it won't be long until I'm on the sideline with a group of kids and a stopwatch.

It makes me so proud to watch Gage come into this stage--and I can't wait to just be the loud momma for now!