Laura's Soccer Career Takes Flight

Feeling fierce before her first practice.

This fall, we decided to bite the bullet and add Laura to the family rotation of activities. The fates took mercy on me by assigning her to a team that practices at the same time and place as Danny's team, which led to a dance of joyous victory on my part.

Although she was verbally not overly enthused going into it, she jumped right in at practice. There was only one practice before the War Eagles' first game, so we weren't too sure what to expect on game day. Turns out she got into it, big time, and never wanted to be on the sidelines! After spending the first few minutes a bit unclear on which direction she should kick the ball, she wound up scoring her team's first goal!

The scoring shot...with Danny standing behind the goal, cheering her on.

Danny was on hand to cheer for her and award her a hug after her goal:

Laura definitely did not shy away from the ball, and if anything will need to be taught the art of passing and sharing with your teammates. But based on this first game, I think the timing was right for her to join the sporting life!

First Day of School 2015: Laura

Last, but not least, and nearly an entire month after Danny, Laura began her final year of preschool! She was perfectly content to go, but not nearly as excited as I was. Fortunately, it was a great day for both of us!

More Caves! (Or, Our Trip to Rock City)

The long weekend meant a great opportunity for a family outing, as did the nice weather, so on Monday we loaded up in the van and headed to Rock City. Situated just on the border of Georgia and Tennessee, Rock City sits high atop a mountain and features spectacular views (theoretically of seven states) as well as some incredible rock formations.

These included many cave-like passages that we all particularly enjoyed watching Tim squeeze through and/or duck under:

"Fat Man's Squeeze"

We ate lunch in the cafe overlooking the place where, during the Civil War, they first discovered you can see seven different states. We remain skeptical, but it was quite scenic nonetheless. After lunch we continued our amblings, including this overlook near a waterfall that height-averse Danny chose to go nowhere near - but Clare was all over it.

I think we all appreciated the opportunity to get away, get some fresh air, and just spend time together. What better way to spend a holiday?

Clare's First X-Country Meet

After several weeks of practice, the Marist Middle School Cross-Country team competed in its first meet - and did quite well! Clare looked strong, and more importantly felt great after the race. There is something very exhilarating about a race - a feeling you just don't get from a regular run.

Her entire family was supportive and proud, and Laura decided her calling is to be a cheerleader. She LOVED shouting, "Go Marist!"

I think we are all happy to be part of this community!