Vivian's Soccer

Vivian participated in a spring soccer session at St. Anthony's.  Both kids have done these afterschool clinics for several years now.  Run by Khary Stockton Soccer, they mostly focus on developing fundamental skills--there is very little actual soccer played. One of the highlights of every session is the parachute sprint, when each child runs around the field with a parachute strapped to his/her back (see the picture below).  The clinics are held in the park across from the school, making them super convenient.  And of course, everyone gets a trophy at the end. 

 

Spring Soccer

Henry started rec league soccer this year.  The season got off to a rocky start with the first week of practice cancelled due to poor weather and the first game held in a steady rain.  Needless to say, Henry was less than excited to continue playing, but after a few more practices and games, he warmed up to soccer and eventually scored a few goals later in the season.  This was our first experience with the Alexandria Soccer Association, and overall we were impressed by the program.  The children in Henry's age bracket play four-a-side scrimmages of 10 minutes each and there is no keeping score (and few rules).  The emphasis is on participation and building fundamental skills rather than strategy.  Despite his occasional reluctance to mix it up on the field, Henry did really well.  We're hoping we can convince him to try soccer again next spring...and hopefully this time we'll have better luck with the weather.  Below are some pictures of Henry in action on the pitch.

 

 

 

Henry's first goal!

Skating Lessons

Another way we kept the kids busy this winter: ice skating lessons.  Both kids had been skating before and Henry had previously taken “mommy and me” lessons, but this was the kids’ first time on their own with an instructor.  We must say, they both did a great job—arguably the stars of their class.  Henry is fairly comfortable skating on his own, and Vivian quickly learned to march and glide while mostly staying upright.  Next up is Snow Plow Sam II starting in May.  Hopefully we’ll all be skating on our own next winter–or at least well enough to help dad.