Well, it finally happened folks- I’m officially a soccer mom and I’ve never been so excited about something I once dreaded. There was a time I cringed at the thought, possibly because I equated “soccer mom” with “old age,” but now as I am in fact aging, I am thrilled with every new step. Each new badge earned is a new adventure, every new year is something to look forward to.
OK, so my 3 year old isn’t actually on a soccer team. BUT I did sign him up for soccer class. My city has a tot-soccer program so we got him in for the 3 ½ – 4 year olds class. Signing him up was one of my most joy-filled moments as a parent to date. The parks & rec office is downtown, across from my favorite coffee shop. So there I was, beaming with delight while I ordered my coffee, sign-up receipt in hand, knowing I am a soccer mom. I almost cried I was so happy, but that could also be the pregnancy hormones.
Tot- soccer doesn’t have a lot of requirements, but the one thing he did need was shin guards. So of course that meant a trip to Target! We took the whole fam- hubs, JZ (3 year old), JP (1 year old), and me with my very pregnant belly. Target trips are always a fun adventure with the fam, so I did not mind the excuse to go.
We found the shin guards in the “pee wee” size and decided on these Puma ProCat Shin Guards. They fit him the best and weren’t itchy like some of the others he tried. But of course it’s target so we also picked up soccer socks and shorts because can anyone only buy one item when shopping at Target? If you are one of those people, please show me your ways! My bank account will thank you.
Now, it came time for the actual soccer class. It’s only 30 minutes long, but let me tell you, that is enough time to wear JZ out, making for a very happy mommy (and daddy!) at bedtime. The Kidz Love Soccer class teaches them how to kick the ball, listen to a coach, and I think a little bit of teamwork. It’s pretty hilarious and chaotic watching a group of 3 and 4 year olds kick soccer balls around the field, as they each get their own ball to practice with. We’ve only had a couple of classes so far, but I am so happy with the way JZ is learning and growing through the class, and of course a little bit proud because he’s the fastest one in his class. Granted, he’s also got his 6’4” dad to thank for his height as he towers over all the other kids too.
Sometimes, most times, it’s the little things in life that make one feel truly accomplished. So here I am proudly declaring that I am a soccer Mom and it feels like one of my greatest achievements. I am so blessed to have healthy children and a supportive husband which allows this seemingly small thing to feel so big. I will not let myself take life’s precious moments for granted, as I know there are so many struggling to make ends meet or dealing with loss. Each circumstance has its own moments to be proud of- this is mine.
So one more time, I’ll say it loud- I am A Soccer Mom! It may be a sign that I’m getting older, but what’s wrong with that? If you’re a mom earning your tiger stripes & smile-lines along with me, remember all of these once dreaded signs of aging are actually badges of achievement you can wear proudly and boldly- because you did a thing and that thing was AWESOME!
