In an effort to post about something actually happening in our current lives and not from weeks back, here's a short and sweet glimpse into the life of my boys this week. Firstly, Albs took part in his first holiday camp. Having seen a friend post about a football camp her boyfriend runs, just ten minutes down the road, we signed Alby up. (And yes, we were motivated by the fear of how to keep our bag of energy entertained and sane for the 4 long weeks that are pre-prep Easter holidays).
Fast forward to his first pair of football boots (with studs, look at the studs mummy, can I wear my football boots please, can I go outside and wear them now, please?) borrowed shin pads and three days of football skills, Easter games and, most importantly, matches. Albs absolutely loved it. We turned up early yesterday to watch him give it his all charging up and down the field, tackling and even scoring a goal or two in his 3 on 3 matches. Now, I absolutely don't want to downplay his impressive skills but I feel I should highlight that this was a game of 4-6 year old versus other 4-6 year olds, not all of whom take sport or competition as seriously as our little chap. I believe one of his opponents was busy practising her cartwheel skills as Alby ran past.
At the end there were participation certificates for all, handed out with Easter eggs for every child (because they haven't had anywhere near enough chocolate left). Four "player of the week" certificates were also handed out. And yes, you are about to dive head first into a smug me moment. Alby was highlighted for having turned up not knowing anyone or playing before and having been friendly and enthusiastic and for doing his best throughout. Albs was shocked and delighted to hear his name being called for his extra certificate and £10 gift voucher! We were just so pleased for him. He deserves it.
Whilst Albs has been busy wearing himself out, George has been fighting the latest wave
of small people germs. What a stinker this one has been. With it comes extra cuddles and a need to be near mummy at all times alongside moments of utter despair when things don't go his way. It's kept all of us on our toes, and I have to praise Albs for being so patient and understanding when George pushes him off my lap, competes for attention and proves a force of real annoyance when he is trying to concentrate on the reading and maths his demanding mother insists he does!Cuddles and high emotions are something we've become accustomed to when our boys are ill or exhausted. (Even Albs ended yesterday in tears, having exhausted himself on the football field and then struggled with his emotions and tiredness come bedtime.) The new little twist Smalley has introduced to this bout of bugs is his decision that the only way to fall asleep is by collapsing right on top of me. This isn't a little snuggling in. This isn't our normal bedtime cuddle. This is "don't touch me just sit there whilst I claim my territory."
It's gone from cute to confusing to amusing to lovely. I've been a bit emotional in the build up to his 3rd birthday. It feels like a real marker in my parenting journey. Especially as in all other ways he has become so much more independent. This is sweet way to end the day. A great way to end the day.
Love my little champs. x
