Tough day

Nothing sends a mother into a "rage" more than getting a voicemail during her day from her son's school saying that because of some choices....consequences will be given.  REALLY??? And I thought I was going to have a great day.  I am going to chalk it up to lack of sleep at the age of 17.  Now, let's see how long that excuse will last

The first game back (Southridge vs Lincoln)

So last Friday was Derek's first game since his concussion. It was at Jeld-Wen field (home of the Portland Timbers). It was a lot of fun to watch them play in a huge football field. Derek played both offense and defense. Of course the game started at 4pm and I couldn't get there that early. DEREK scored the first TOUCHDOWN!! Did I know about?? Um.....no. Not until I picked Derek up after the game. Thank goodness the news channels all had his touchdown on tv or I would have never seen it. He also made it into the newspaper. And this will tell you how crazy I am... The newspaper articles are framed and on the wall. I also found the highlight of his touchdown and sent it to all my siblings. The blessing of todays's technology.

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.