Pondering Ponderosas

So I was kicking around in the Tumor Tube for the last time yesterday, on this here lake, and I started thinkin', see. What is it about Ponderosa Pines that makes them so cool? Is it the bark? The long needles? The pine-fresh scent? The shade they give in the heat of summer? I'm not sure, but I never get tired of looking at them or being around them.

For The Joy Of It

Friday practice was great. The rain steadily getting stronger until we were down to half-a-dozen kids out on the track. Everyone else had gone for the locker room. A boys relay team was working on their hand-offs, with another boy helping them out, and we were down to one girl who had been improving her hurdling. All at once they began sprinting down the back-stretch in a spontaneous dash unencumbered by peer pressure, self-consciousness, or my voice. Just a wide-grinned race for the fun of it. And I got to see it all, my silent grin just as big as theirs.

These are the moments that make putting up with the idiocy of a government job worth it. There are still these somewhat "pure" moments when the kids are kids and enjoying themselves in a healthy, happy, in-the-moment way. We need more of 'em, but the administrators and politicians can't stand what they can't control.

Back On Track

Yes, folks, another track season is upon us. Have had over 70 sign up, with more than 60 showing up most days. Some of the most fun kids at school with us this year. Going from coaching throws to coaching sprints, hurdles, and high jump will be quite the challenge. Been lucky with the weather, lately. Can hardly wait 'til the meets begin, to see what we really have.

More Spring Break Photos

Feeling Alive

I guess the day-to-day becomes a little too robotic at times and I need to get uncomfortable to feel alive. Take this last week's trip to Stanley. Sub-zero temperatures in April? Snow being driven by the wind into the earhole? Felt boots frozen so solid they feel like wearing ice-blocks! I loved it!

Of course catching fish in crystal-clear water and spending time with friends not seen in five years were happiness-induced experiences. But it was the uncomfortable times, the in-your-face, I-dare-you-to-stay-out-in this that really put the smile back on the old mug.

Absolutely fantastic to spend time with my buddy of many adventures again, and watch him get his first steelhead then many others. Good to know Mick would appreciate it, cold and all, too.

Could have used another week.