Basketball & Birthday Parties

Carter started his first basketball practice this past Saturday. It was also the same day as his 6th birthday party. The day started off great. Carter was excited his cousins were in town (also known as his brother and sister). I thought we had to be there at 8:50 a.m., and boy was I dreading getting up that early. I drove to the location and guess what, I was at the wrong place. I sped to the right location, because now I'm late, and I despise being late. I get there only to find out that I was actually an hour early 😆

Carter and his Bro-Cuz DJ were getting along for the most part, but they were getting impatient. Carter began having a breakdown about playing in the game because he was afraid of the "big kids." He DID NOT want to play at all. I didn't force him to. I did make him practice though. I am one of the coaches and it's my first time coaching any sport.

I had to realize he was nervous because, to be honest, I would have been too. The difference is, he has a dad to instill that confidence in him. It just didn't work this time. But, we both agreed he is going to play in the next game.

It was actually a fun experience watching the kids play. My nephew DJ scored like 8 points and grabbed 3 offensive rebounds. Buddy was not passing the ball AT ALL 🤣. I think my team won? I was too busy trying to sub out the kids to get everyone playing time, and making sure they were running to the right side of the court!

Later that day was the birthday party. It was a Rollerskate and Spiderman theme. Carter's mother did an amazing job planning, and getting the invites out.

He had a really great turnout of friends and family. The kids skated until they were tired. We had pizza, party bags, and a pretty cool Spiderman cake!

I am so thankful that everyone had a fun and safe time. I'm really grateful for the village we have, and that my son saw how many people care for him and love him. He left with a ton of gifts, that we are thankful for.

He really deserves the love he receives. My little man has been through some tough things for a 6-year-old. His resilience is inspiring at times.

He struggles a lot with expressing his emotions and can start crying when he's upset. It can get overwhelming at times, but it's really important to let your kids express why they are upset instead of making them be quiet and shutting off their feelings.

I did get frustrated with him crying seemingly for no reason, but when he and I had some quiet time, I assured him that I wasn't upset with him.

I always want him to know that he can express how he feels without being embarrassed or afraid that I am angry at him.

I love the moments when we bond and nurture our trust in each other. I was really happy to have family time this weekend, especially with it being Easter.

Family is truly a gift, and it is one that I don't take for granted.