A Story Of Falls And Smiles

Another first that is a long time coming.

The boys had their first skating lesson today. They were so excited. After trying to find skates to fit Matthew's brace, we decided to try without it (but had his foot taped by Steve to help). It took a few tries to get his foot in without the toes rolling under, but we managed and I sent them out onto the ice for the first time.

There was a lot of this.



And a lot of smiles

and some more falls.

I like to call this one "my foot has a mind of it's own"



It didn't seem to matter how many times they fell, they always got right back up with a smile on their faces.

Eventually, they started to get it...and of course had to be faster and farther then the class.




They had a great time and I was so proud.

Now, onto the scrutinizing side.

If you look at every video of Matthew falling (green and grey jacket), you will see his left foot drift forward, knocking him off balance. He fell. A lot. More then any other kid on the ice. But each and every time, he smiled, got up, and worked harder, jumped higher and went faster. Because, that is Matthew.

I asked him after if he wanted me to find a pair of skates that his brace fit into. He thought about it and said no. I think that is a wise decision. Brace free in skates can only strengthen that little foot. Makes me even more proud that he decided that on his own.

Will leave you with Ryan's first jump combination. Double axel double toe I believe...