Support

“So, Jay…. Paige has a dance show tomorrow,” I said to my husband. And before I could say more, he responded, “ok should we go?” I love that about Jay. He always says that all his aunts, uncles, cousins, would all go to watch any sporting event or activities of any of theirs when they were growing up. Paige is our niece and Jay has said before if any of the cousins of our boys have things going on, he couldn’t wait to go support.

So we went on Friday, and were very entertained with the show that was put on. It turned out to be a competition with kids performing dances to represent their local dance school. They were all so talented! It was a completely different event for Jay and I to attend, being hockey parents of boys. There were a small number of boys dancing, but we definitely realized being a parent of girls is quite a different world. There was a lot of confidence on display and they’d put in the work to perform their art so well. It was fun to see which songs were chosen and the choreography to go along with these songs. We were so proud to see our niece and her friends dance. As we are completely ignorant to the dance world, it was interesting to see how the judge gave out 3rd, 2nd then 1st place to the age categories and the feedback he provided on what was done well, and what could be improved upon.

Over the same weekend, our boys both had hockey games. Owen had two playoff games that they were able to win first place for their age group and division on the Island and the team goes on to the Provincials. Jordan’s game was potentially his very last ‘career game’ being in grade 12 now and this being the end for his team. They have one playoff game to complete but it was unknown at the time if it would be scheduled while Jordan is working. With the boys, they had lots of support show up over the weekend as well. Their aunt brought great grandma out to two games, grandma and grandpa were there for a game and to get final photos of Jordan in gear. And the support goes beyond the in-person. With these milestone occasions, family and friends cheered them on with well wishes sent our way through social media. We felt wrapped in support like a hug. From ‘likes’ from people that you haven’t talked to in a while, from cheering through text or being there, it all counts.

As I left one rink early, to get the other boy to his game at a different rink, my sister in law was able to text photos of the boys celebrating on the ice. That was appreciated. I am definitely grateful for the love that circulates. And it feels good to keep it circulating. Checking in on and supporting others as well.

Sending Love,

Devon