Living the dream.

I remember the day like it was yesterday, it was warm out with a tiny breeze and a Saturday. I put on my favorite soccer shorts and my lucky cleats - they made me so fast.
My Mom drove me to competition soccer tryouts. I hadn't slept a wink the night before, I was too nervous and far too excited. All my friends were trying out and although I knew they were better than me, I was anxious to learn what they already knew about the game - the footwork, the tricks, the big kicks.
The day to be apart of their team finally came.
I showed up with butterflies and a water bottle/cooler big enough for the whole team. It was the only one I could find that day. Just before they put me on the field, they asked what position I played. Forward I said, then I hesitated and told them I would play any position.
I was so ready. I saw the coach approach my Mom and I was anxious to hear the gossip. He told my Mom I was very small. Too small. That was it. I never touched the field that warm spring day. We just left.
I continued to play on other teams but always drooled over the thought of being on that team.
I never did play on that team.
I told myself I'd practice and try out for the high school team, I was a sophomore, but when I showed up to Roy West Park anxious to prove myself , those same girls were there. Instead of getting let down again, I turned around and walked home. I never tried out.
A little piece of me regretted that move, every day when I drove past the park after school and saw them practicing.
A few weeks ago I received a text message from one of those girls inviting me to play on an outdoor team.
My heart skipped a beat and without asking if we could afford it, I said yes. I went out and bough new sleeves for my shingaurds and pulled out my soccer bag. I might have also purchased a rubber soccer ball in a net that hangs from my rear view mirror at the same store, it was on sale. (and ... I've always wanted one)
We've played two games. We're not that great but I'm loving every second.
Colby laughs when I talk about it, he teases me that I've waited for this for so long and now I can't stop smiling.
Did I mention it's a co-ed outdoor just for fun team?
Good enough for me.   :)