Fast forward two years later...
This morning while she said the prayer before leaving for school she prayed she would finish close to first (thought it was interesting she didn't ask for 1st). When she was done I had that talk with her where you say, just do your best and it will be good enough, you know that one? Well, I did my best to boost her confidence and also help her understand that being a participant (it's the ribbon you get when you're not one of the top 10) is not a bad thing. You know I'm not sure she was satisfied...she really wanted something more.
All this talk and her frustrated feelings made me feel a bit nervous about this mornings race. She's not very athletic and I knew she wouldn't place, but hoped she wouldn't be close to last again. I got a little emotional as I watch her line up with the kids ready to give it all she's got praying that no matter the outcome she would have fun like she had the other years.
Tess, Megan, and I ran along side her on the course a few times to cheer her on and give words of encouragement. As she ran to the finish line I could see how tired she was, but also how determined she was to finish close to first.
this photo cracks me up. You can totally see how tired she is trying to hug tess and then her classmate in the bg is looking wasted too.
Well I wish I could report that she got in the top 10, but she didn't, not even close. She put all she had into the race and came out somewhere in the middle (at least she wasn't close to last). Afterward I walked up to her, gave her a big hug, and told her what a great job she did. She said "Well I get a participant ribbon." and I said "You did so good! I'm very proud of you for running the whole time" She said, "Yeah, I did my best." Then gave me a smile. "Maybe next year I should practice, it was hard work."
As I walked away from her she was laughing and playing around with some of her friends, so despite the fact that she didn't place like she wanted to she still had a great time. And really that's all I've ever wanted is for her to enjoy the experience.
9 comments:
You're a great story teller (and I've always liked picture books). Ultimately, Bella achieved the victory of being happy with trying her best. Nice job, Mom.
Very cute story. A lot of kids place "participant" and are thrilled, it's the magic of getting a ribbon eh? So funny.
Wow. I can almost see the ribbon of this theme running through her little life, one that she will likely revisit from time to time, and she is lucky to have you so that she has the tools to not just survive it, but to enjoy it. What a great attitude she finished with, and your "And really that's all I've ever wanted is for her to enjoy the experience" pretty much sums up motherhood for me.
Good for her! We find the joy along the way! Not at the end, not a the view from the top, I wish I would have figured that out when I was her age!
Love the pic with the popcicle!
I love the determined look on her face in that first picture. Teaching her to enjoy the experience is definitely a wonderful accomplishment. This was great.
Great images of the day, Amy! I am so happy she really enjoyed her day! I, too think it's sweet that she is already thinking about improving for next year.
Congratulations on your achievement, Bella!
I am so glad I found your blog, I love it. What a cute story and adorable kids. You are such a good mom. I love you pictures.
Lori Baros/Romrell
way to go bella! that's a great accomplishment. love her little prayer. she is such a sweet girl.
Loved reading this post and it made me love Bella even more. What a great kid!
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