That’s The Way The Ball Bounces

My little guy started basketball today.  He has a clinic today and next Saturday with some dude who’s worked in the NBA (as a trainer).  Then this upcoming week he has basketball camp at the “Y”.  On June 22nd, the actual league starts. 

When I dropped him off this morning, it took a lot of will power not to cry—ME, not him.  He’s just growing up too fast, and my poor old heart can barely take it.  We shopped yesterday for new tennis shoes (wow, are Nike Shox pricey!) and basketball shorts.  He looked so cute this morning.  I didn’t take a picture, but I will when I pick him up.  I was too emotional this morning to be ‘with it’ enough to do it.  I walked him in to the gymnasium and wanted so badly to stay, but I didn’t.  I also wanted so badly to kiss that sweet little face, but I refrained.  I sensed that that just wasn’t the cool thing to do in front of all those boys and men, and Jordan probably would’ve shunned me which would’ve stung badly.  So I leaned in and whispered to him, “I really want to kiss you right now, but I’m not going to.”  Jordan smiled really big and whispered back, “I love you,” and off he went, bouncing his basketball across the court, leaving me standing there, fighting back tears.  Wow, am I a complete sap or what?

I am going back early to sneak a peek.  There are windows that you can look through into the gym.  I want to watch him without him knowing.

I am officially on summer vacay.  I actually packed up my classroom on time this year…first time in fourteen years.  I am always one of those teachers who has to go back on my own time the week after school is out and finish packing up.  Not this year.  I’m not sure how I managed this time.  But it felt great.  I am working this summer but not until July 13th.  I am doing eight two-day writing workshops (giving the training…not receiving) for our county to fellow teachers who sign up.  The training is geared towards motivating writers.  I’m nervous as hell, but I’m also thrilled, too.  Plus, the money is great. But like I said, that doesn’t start until July 13th.  In the interim, I am planning to do some writing, and I have a STACK of books I cannot wait to read.