The Little Girl that Could Do Anything
Ella,
I took you to one of your first Lacrosse practices yesterday. You aren't playing just yet - you're just learning. You have a stick at home that Eddie gave you but you don't take it with you. Instead you use any old stick laying around. I mention that because you are usually so persnickety about your choice of things to use. In this instance - you don't seem to mind.
When we first got there - you were hesitant to get on the field. And I can relate to that - there were big kids, new kids, it was a new place, a big place and I can see why it would be intimidating. I remember not liking going to new big places with bigger people. I understood.
But to break the ice I did something I had never done - and almost vowed never to do - I picked up a Lacrosse stick and started to play with you. Once this happened you fell right into yourself. "Daddy, pass!" "Daddy, give it to me." "Daddy, watch I can shoot!" - You simply move me with your desire to compete and make me proud. It's almost selfish to watch you light up - in your attempt (from what I understand) to make me light up.
Once practice started you of course were fine - you may not remember this but we have a sign you and me. When things aren't going the way you like - or when you do something good - or when you get frustrated you turn to me and give me a thumbs up or a thumbs down. I always try to give you the thumbs up and then you see that and it makes you smile. It makes me smile too.
You compete with the boys that are bigger than you and you hate to lose. You are so competetive - if you miss a shot you insist on going again. You love to be timed for how fast it takes you to do something.
I see great things in you. I see your desire to be good at something. I love you so very much and I will always be so very proud of you. You are my favorite thing - and always will be. You make me a better person just because you are you.
Love always - Dad
