Relay for life

Ryk ran in the relay for life at school today.  We all went cheer him on.

First we had to go to the office and get visitors stickers, then Paul ran down the school hall with K and J so we could hurry up and get outdoors so we didn't miss our Ryk.

and he was already rolling.  Kiddo can run!

 Jovie decided she wanted in on the running fun, so Paul ran with her.  All the little elementary school girls thought she was so cute…overheard by a group of girls in R's class - "look at Ryker's little sister, she is soooooo cute!"

 Even the best runners must take a water break...

 Run-by high-five!

 The tongue, it helps him sprint faster, I am sure of this...

 and the tongue, again, for lap 6...

 This little boy, so much love!

 Kip was more interested in the playground than the run.

Ryk ran 9 laps!  So awesome!  I am sure he will be one sore little boy tomorrow.  He was really bummed out because he ran more laps earlier this year.  It presented the perfect opportunity to talk to him about being happy with doing your best.  Even if your best isn't as good as other people, or as good as you have done in the past.  And that as long as you have a fun time and try your hardest, you have to be proud of whatever your accomplishment is.  I was validated that this was the best conversation to have with him as I overheard a mom talking down to her son, saying "hurry up and run, I didn't come her to see you walk."

I just want my kids to be happy in whatever they do, whether they are the bench warmers or the best athletes out there.