There's No Crying in Soccer!

We signed Owen up for Soccer this year! We were all a little anxious starting the season. How would he react socially to this team sport? Is he going to just run around bumping into people (just one of the things he does?) Is he going to get mad when someone takes the ball from him? Is he going to physically lash out? These are all behaviors he has exhibited at school and home so I was worried they would translate to the soccer field.

Go TIGERS!

So how did it go? Well he is doing GREAT! Yes he spins around and bumps into other kids at times but he has not physically lashed out at anyone and is not nearly as timid as he was the first few weeks.

As I have watched him with his coaches at practice and at the games I couldn't help but tear up at times. Because of Owen's struggles I just wasn't sure if he would be able to handle a team sport situation.  His coach was so wonderful and exactly the personality that Owen needs. Patient and positive, consistent and just kind hearted. We left the soccer season feeling very pleased about our experience...and hopeful for future adventures in team sports!

Owen with one of his AWESOME Coaches!

      

Attack of the Cactus!

Owen LOVES the outdoors and especially hiking. We've gone on some family hikes but this time Shad decided to just take Owen out for a boys trip. I told Shad to call when they were on their way home. So I get a call that they are just leaving the mountain and I get informed that there was a "casualty" but everything's fine. Owen had tripped and fallen face first into a cactus. "I got most of the needles out so he's ok now," WHAT??? It seemed like it took them forever to get home.

When I saw him I freaked out a little. Blood all over his shirt and scratches all over his face. It was a miracle that the needles missed his eye. I felt for the poor little guy. 

He was so brave and made it through like a champ. He loved telling his story and even asked if that is what he could present to his class for show and tell. A few months later we went on the same hike. I thought he might have some anxiety but he did great! When Shad showed him the catus he was more proud than anything. He did not let that cactus get the best of him!