Soccer Anyone?

So soccer season begins with the choking heat of mid summer. I was dreading it and not ready to sit in this heat to watch soccer practice. As I sat there in my fold up chair, I longed for a shade, a cool breeze, an air conditioner, anything that could lessen the heat of the burning sun rays. At least I wasn't running around after the soccer ball like all the kids on the team. I am also thankful for 91 degrees versus the 97 to 102 degrees it was last week.

I also watched as my toddler ran around and kicked a soccer ball with her Dad. That is the best way to entertain her while at practice. She is fascinated with balls. She is so going to be ready for soccer next year. At the end of practice, she was completely drenched in sweat. What few strands of hair she has was dripping wet.

This is my oldest daughter's fourth year of soccer. It is amazing to see the difference and improvements from year to year. The kids are beginning to control the ball a little this year. They will be focusing on trying not to kick the ball wildly. The goal is to get the ball in the net not just kick it as hard as you can and chase it to see who can get to it first. As I watched the kids, I could see who has never played before and who has some experience. My daughter is one of two on the team who seem to have an idea as to how to play. The coaches have accepted a younger kid on the team who seems to only want to kick it away from the field and anyone on it. He has a great kick but seems to be in his own game. One little girl, obviously new to soccer, was told not to let the ball get by her at the net. Her comment back was "Why?". Oh boy! What kind of soccer season will it be? This is why we have a few practices before the games start. No matter what, the kids will have a blast playing together and will learn a lot this year.

I am sitting here in a quiet moment typing feverishly. Can I get it all done before my toddler wakes up? There will be no more peace when she gets up. I sent my oldest daughter to her room to read and to have quiet in the house. My toddler will not sleep if there is any noise. It is a matter of moments before chaos attacks the house again as my oldest daughter stands at the top of the stairs and asks nonstop if she can come downstairs. Well, when she wakes, I will get dinner started and wait for Dad to come home. I have to get started on dinner earlier since his office is only five minutes from home now. I have choir practice tonight so he can continue in the chaos while I am gone. He is a good man and he is wonderful to keep the girls for me while I sing until my voice is gone. I think I will give him and extra special hug when he comes in tonight. I love it when he walks in the door.