Thursday, August 14, 2008

The Story Of My Life

PhotoStory Friday
Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek



Sports are the story of my life. More specifically, my boys and their particular sports are the story of my life. All three of my boys.

Bug..... my little Bug. I've shared with you highlight stories and lowlight stories from his budding football career. Football season has just started again for him, and this year is shaping up to be more of the same. His head coach wants to make him the backbone of the team. That's a lot of responsibility for a ten year old. That's a lot of responsibility for that ten year old's mom as well. He has to be prepared to do well on the field. I've got to be prepared to keep his self esteem at its highest. With this kid, and all his many quirks.... I think he's got the easier job.


Jock..... my oh-so-tough teenager. You've commiserated with me after some major disappointments, and you've celebrated with me some fantastic successes. He's been in training for football season since before school even got out last year. Practices officially started this week. Hell Week, as he pointed out to me tonight. Geez, Mom... why do you ask how practice went? Its Hell Week... its not supposed to be good.

Coach....my most-of-the-time willing partner in this whole parenting gig we got roped into 15 years ago. This man lives and breathes for sports, and he found his life's calling in coaching. The joy that fills this man when he's able to teach a young athlete something new about a sport he's passionate about is amazing to see. I honestly believe he grows at least another foot taller every time he steps into the middle of that huddle. It always humbles me to see the effect on him when these kids believe in him and what he's teaching.

Yes, my life revolves around their athletic schedules. We've either got practice or a game every day of the week. On the rare occasions we don't have one of those, we're usually parked at home, because there are game plans to create or play books to study. And at the end of it all, these three guys get all the glory. What do I get out of this life?


I get the privilege of watching my boys mature into self-assured young men, and the honor of sharing with my husband as he rediscovers within himself what everyone else finds so awe-inspiring and amazing.

Me? I get to enjoy to the fullest possible extent the story of my life.

9 comments:

Susie said...

Those pictures are PERFECT for this story. Before they close the book on you-you will have the ultimate glory-when they become successful independent adults--because you were the one behind the scenes--or I mean off the field.

Sounds like you are doing a wonderful job keeping the team together! Great job sportsmama!

Sully Sullivan said...

I'd say you don't have too bad of a gig there if you enjoy watching sports.

What other sports do the boys play?

Does coach play any sports?

I haven't played anything real competitive in years, but when I was younger I played hockey, baseball, lacrosse and I was even forced into diving. Yep, swimming pool diving. I was actually pretty decent in spite of my size. No, I wasn't the fat kid, I was just tall and thick.

Flea said...

I love your perspective. :) Isn't that the greatest thing about being a mom and wife, working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, knowing the part you play, though silent, is so essential? Your children will rise up and call you blessed.

There's just something incredible about the satisfaction of a job well done, and SM, you're doing your job well. :D

So what will you so when they're out of the house? Back to school? I'm loving my new life of learning.

Burgh Baby said...

It sounds like it is all-around the exact right people for your little family. You all fit together quite perfectly.

The Sports Mama said...

Sully, the boys both play football and baseball competitively. They do other sports for fun, but that's it. They'd love to do hockey, I think, but its just not as big out here. :) And I suspect Bug could secretly be in training for some form of X-Games diving competitions :)

No, Coach doesn't play anymore, but he's a big football guy. Played it all through school, and played softball for a while as an adult. Now, he's happy just to pass along his love and knowledge of football and baseball to kids who just soak all that up!

Cecily R said...

You are a BIG reason I am groovy with the idea of Isaac starting football this year. The way you look at the whole thing is SO REFRESHING.

I love your persepective and that I KNOW without a doubt that you mean what you say when you talk about loving being a Sports Mama. My inspiration, you ARE!

tiarastantrums said...

this is funny - you poor dear!

Carrie and Troy Keiser said...

You're a better woman than me..... I could not do all the practices! Good luck with football season!

Kidzmama said...

One question. In your heart of hearts are you a girly girl?