Friday Night Lights

Last night was my sons senior Homecoming game. As it was also my step sons Freshman Homecoming game we had a crazy night of football fever in the house. You see, having all the kids in one school would be too easy and normal- so not the way we do things at The Oompahpah. 

One of these games ended up being a Hollywood script, fireworks and all (no kidding).

While the kids just have their one game to worry about Erik and I spend a good portion of our evening timing entrances and departures so we can then drive from one end of Orange County to the other to get from field to field all the while changing our clothes at red lights so as to coincide with the correct fan colors and spirit wear for the next game. It's the behind scenes life of parenting in a blended family 2011.

After a quick stint at the the Freshman game we were a bit psyched to settle in at the senior Homecoming, mainly because this year for John is just so monumental. It’s his senior year. Each day he goes to school I wish for him to be back in kindergarten as much as I look forward to him heading off into the world. I just know the whole being in charge of him and being able to ensure where he is at night is all ending soon and I am just not ready for it. Anyway I am savoring the entire senior year experience with him as much as I can, so this game was a big one for me and I was looking forward to it. Which is why it was a bit disappointing to arrive at halftime being under 0-7, or more so third quarter at 0-28.

The game may have been in the dumps but the school spirit was incredible. Shirts, ribbons, chants, I am sure all the normal at thousands of high schools across the country although I don’t how many high school games have pyrotechnic displays between quarters, golden confetti sprays that rival a Main Street Disneyland parade, or half time shows that include firework displays that I have seen similar at small town 4th of July celebrations. Let's just say there was a lot going on for a high school football game even if it was homecoming.

Halfway through the fourth quarter we scored. Then in the kick off we went for an onside kick and got the ball for another shot that lead to yet another goal. I know that you think you know where this is going and although you are right, you see we didn’t know that at the time- and it was insane! The stands were wild. Kids and adults where stomping their feet and chanting  “I believe that we will win” over and over while we were still 8 points down with only three minutes to go. It was amazing! In the end we got the lead with 41 seconds to spare and a two point conversion after the touchdown. Kids were holding on to one another each time the ball was set down for another play. I swear you could hear each person breath as we all inhaled and exhaled in unison. We were one.

The game was the best high I have had in a long time. The kids in their spirit section were wild with glee and excitement while shirts were ripped off and swung in exuberance. Parents yelled, smiled, and threw their arms up all at the same time in disbelief and excitement texting anyone who had left early or no one at all if only to prove that they had been there in that moment of time and miracles. 

...and all I could think of was how proud coach Carter would have been of this game. 


                                                     Clear eyes full hearts can’t lose. Go Panthers Wolverines 29-28 F.