The Balcony

Max,

Tonight you attended your very first ballgame at HCHS, well your very first ballgame anywhere.  It was homecoming, so the gym was packed.  And you, baby Max, started crying as soon as that loud music started playing.  You love your peace and quiet...hmmm not sure  how you'll react when baby #2 arrives.  I was afraid we would have to leave early.  But, once we settled in the balcony, you loved it.  You were intently watching the game....your head going back and forth following the ball up and down the court, clapping with the crowd.  I couldn't help but be reminded of all the times I had walked up and down those balcony steps in the HCHS gym as a little girl, as a teenager, and now as a mommy!  Tonight, Christy and I followed you, Jack, and Jude up and down those stairs getting drinks, popcorn, and ringpops, and I kept picturing my mom, dad, grandparents, JT, Bonnie, and Johnny all sitting in our regular season seats.  For so many years, that's the way it was.  We were regulars in that gym since Johnny was principal there for so many years.  It was the hours I spent in that gym that made me determined I would be an HCHS cheerleader one day!  As I watched you boys climb the chairs, the steps, and all over us, I couldn't help but think how many memories had already been made in Gamlin gymnasium by our family and now how many more would be made.  As the final buzzer sounded, a lady (who had sat in seats near us for years) came up to me and said, "You grew up in this balcony.  If Johnny were still here, you'd all be sitting in your same old seats."  Maybe we can carry on that tradition with you and the rest of the boys.  We had some fun times in that balcony....I don't remember many of the games or players, but I do remember how much fun Christy and I had every Friday night. 

On a different note, you took 8 steps a few different times tonight.  So, I think it's safe to say, we have a walker!  Really, where have these last 12 months gone?  You will be one this month, and I just cannot believe it...or accept it :)  You are a sweet little mess who is into everything, my little studier and observer.  You want to see how everything works and what everyone is up to.  If the fridge is opened, or any door for that matter, you will, no doubt, be there to get in it or go through it!  I'm wondering if you turned out so sweet and patient because maybe you'll need those traits with baby #2.  I can only pray he is as calm and sweet as you are :) 

I love you, sweet boy! 

Mama