The first day of his senior year

Um...yes I cried all the way to work today. It is the first day of Derek's senior year. Of course, Derek doesn't think it is a big deal.

The concussion

A mother's worst nightmare is when her child is injured. It is the same for a coach. About two weeks ago, Derek received a concussion during football practice. With the new rules surrounding concussions - all symptoms have to be gone prior to even being cleared by a dr to go back to play. It was really hard to watch Derek deal with having a concussion. Super huge injury with huge implications in the long run. BUT when you have a son, who LOVES to play football, who is a senior, who wants to play in college, it was hard to watch him deal with the implications of a concussion. Has he stopped?? no.. He hopes to start in this weeks game.

The baby story

A few days ago, Derek and I babysat my nephew and his sisters. We had a lot of fun until...bed time. My nephew decided that he didn't want to sleep. Go figure - he's only 8 months old. Derek really stepped up to the plate BECAUSE Derek got up in the middle of the night to feed him. But the best part was the next day. Derek changed a blow out poopy diaper!!! I was so proud of him.

The weight of it all

When Derek was 2 yrs. old, I did "the old wise tale" of measuring his height and doubling it.  So, that would mean that Derek will be 6'7".  I know - big right??? I started to laugh and at the time, didn't think too much of it. He really was the cutest 2 yr. old. So yesterday, when he had his weight/height measurement for football, I thought back on that day.  Derek is 6'4" - and yes, I do feed him. Imagine if he continues...wow!! And he is pretty excited that he has passed up Grandpa Westhora.  None of Grandpa's kids did that.  Just one more thing that I will miss...

The start of FOOTBALL!!

Six years ago this week, Derek decided to play football.  I was very nervous about him being hit and getting hurt.  Why??? you may ask...well he is my only child. Tonight, Derek will be helping with this same camp.  I really want to sneak over and watch him interact with the 3rd graders who will be looking up to him. As camp unfolds this week, I will be thinking of where football has taken Derek and the skills it has given him.  I know that through football he has gained such amazing leadership skills and confidence in who he is.

Time

This past weekend, my sister got married.  The wedding was beautiful and magical.  But as I was watching the whole thing unfold, I looked at Derek.  I realized that VERY shortly, I will be the mother of the groom.  Not a very glamorous title. (unlike mother of the bride). Derek made a few comments about what he will have at his reception and how he will do things.  I laughed.  I explained to him that weddings are about the "bride" and that sometimes the groom is just along for the ride.

As the wedding was wrapping up, I thought about what type of mother-in-law I will be, only having one child.

I always tease Derek I want dozens of grandchildren... but I will be happy with what I get and will love them with all my heart.  I think that I will make a GREAT!! grandmother. And I really hope Derek gives my granddaughters - the clothes, dresses, hairpretties, the shoes, purses...I could go on and on.

Basketball in the driveway

A few nights ago, Derek and I were in the driveway shooting some hoops.  We spent quite a bit of time out there just talking and shooting.  Nothing major...just realizing how little time I have left.