Tanaka Farms

I had a special date at Tanaka Farms with these two rascals.  We ran through a maze, went on a tractor ride, and picked pumpkins.  Such a fun afternoon.

Twinkle Stars.

After years of cheering on her brother it was finally June's turn!  She was excited for her first soccer season. 

Charlie was happy to support his little sis.

She had the greatest coach, Shannon, a mother of three, who and loved the girls and made the game fun. 

June was a bit timid on the field but she felt proud every time she kicked the ball. 

But let's be honest, running in the heat was not her favorite.  Her favorites included:

putting on her pink soccer shoes

the team huddle and team cheer

the parent tunnel

being on the same team with her buddy Brinley Blad

and of course, the sponsor for the Twinkle Stars, On the Way Liquor, who provided drinks and candy after the last game.

Good job playing on your first team June-bug.

The Creepers.

Charlie had a fun soccer season.  We were a little hesitant at first because they could not find a volunteer to coach the team and then once they did they named the team "Creepers"... um, creepy!  I learned rather quickly that the"Creepers" were pretty cool because they are these characters on Minecraft, a popular video game with 6-10 year olds.  (My bad)     

Charlie stepped it up this year and played aggressively, like a real soccer pro.  He ran with more speed and kicked with more determination than I have ever seen.  It was quite a contrast from the previous two years of soccer where he picked grass and socialized the entire time.  He got to play goalie a number of times and we were impressed with his drive to keep the ball out of the goal, especially since he is not a fan of pressure. 

All the games this season seemed to be in record heat right in the middle of the day.  Every Saturday we uttered the words: "Why aren't we at the beach?"  but we loved cheering on our Charlie-boy.  In his three years of playing Charlie has yet to score a goal, but the greatest part is he does not seem to mind.  He plays with a smile on, makes new friends, and has tons of fun... what more could we ask for?! 

And as in years past, the favorite part of soccer continues to be the parent tunnel. 

Way to go Mr. Charles.