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Last couple weekends, getting into the transition. We really don't play with her soccer teams during hockey season(sneak in an indoor game here and there, probably 3 this year), but had a free weekend and friends in the town hosting, so jumped on the tournament. Not a bad showing in the soccer, first time on the grass since October. Top bracket, 1 goal allowed in 4 games, Champions! The hockey banner was meh, we ended up in a tourney we were far too good for. Never played in it before, just how that works I guess, but we won't be invited back.

Had the championship series on the weekend (best of three) Game one, went in feeling fantastic. Haven't felt that comfortable in the crease all year. Our opponents best player, has a favourite shot, deep toward the corner, my left side, curls in and almost always pulls the puck across the crease, then back behind the goalie who bites. Less than five minutes into the game, I saw him coming in deep on the breakaway, so pulled out a poke check he didn't see coming, defender finally got to the puck, took it to the other end for a goal. Every time he crossed the blue line after that, you could see it in his eyes that he had no idea where to go :) Let one in the third period, that came off a teammates deflection, just grazed my shoulder and in. Won the first game 4-1. Game two, feeling a little less comfortable, but my team were aggressive and attacking. 34 shots on goal to 17 on me, another win 4-1, and we take back to back championships :)

Sang my very first (in all my choral life, since I was still a treble voice) solo this morning! I was so nervous but everyone loved it - the minister and many congregants came up to me after the service, as well as members of the choir (and folks who are far more experienced and trained singers). My choir director described it as "meaningful and moving", words I know she does not use lightly, so I am very proud of myself. Not sure if I want to do another one soon, but now I know that I could!

Today's the birthday of one of my work-kids- I don't see her regularly now she's in school, but it's break and she came in today with her brother and her friend and friend's little sister. Her mom told me that she had asked kiddo what she wanted to do, like what kind of fun thing for her birthday, and she thought for a moment and asked: "Today's Friday, right?" "Yes, it is." "Friday is Erik's day at the gym! We HAVE to go to the gym and see Erik!" That's just all kinds of cute.

I'm humbled. Got recognized by the Montana association:

Old stock find

She was at our rink when we were away on vacation between Christmas and New Year's. The reports I heard from girls and parents were overwhelmingly excellent. They said she not only pushed and inspired the girls on the ice, but she also gave them some incredible advice and guidance about hockey and life while at the off-ice session. I hope to get my girls to one of her camps/clinics in the near future. Kudos to her. Glad your LO got to hang with her.