Rite of Passage: The First Soccer Practice

There are so many blessings that come with being a parent. It's hard to describe how proud you feel when your baby eats their first cracker, takes that first step, says "I love you". I still remember the first time I was referred to by another child as "Liv's Mom". It sounded like music to my ears. Or the first time I heard Holland talk about her friend at Sunday School. I enjoy watching my girls form relationships and memories.

Today was one of those "Rite of Passage" days. The FIRST Soccer practice.

I awoke early this morning to Liv huffing and puffing next to me. When I asked what she was doing, she replied that she was stretching to get ready for soccer practice. Remember, I told you this girl was competitive! After dressing the girls in their soccer gear, we headed downstairs to get some breakfast. Liv had a request: Spinach with no salad dressing. According to Liv, this is the breakfast of champions. So for breakfast, on the first morn of soccer practice, my 5-year-old little girl ate fresh spinach without salad dressing. You gotta hand it to her; she takes her stuff seriously. They were so excited to wear their new soccer shorts, that they wouldn't let me put on their sweats...and it was freezing!




Holland's group had a great time. So did Liv's. Right in the middle of their drill set, the friends decided to search for worms instead. I love this age. :o)



Notice in the picture below, Alexander (far right) is observing a worm in his hand. A few minutes after this picture was taken, he took his turn dribbling the ball, with these worms in tow.




Here we have Holland showing off the worm Alexander kindly gave her.



And I have to compliment both Scott and Trevor for showing the comfort of their manliness by being seen in/around Holland's pink hat. Hey, when you're cold, you're cold!



When we got home, I asked the girls what their favorite part of soccer was and this is what was said:

Holland: The part where I sat on the chair with the blanket on me, when I was resting.



Liv: The part when I won. (Remember, this was PRACTICE. No individuals received medals. :o)



More Pictures:

Emma is one serious spectator!



And I really love how decked out Mary is! :O)



What a fun day!