Days Like These

On this hot, late summer afternoon, you finished your homework. You then surprised me with an inviting question: "Driving Range?" 

I'd often asked you if you'd like to join me, but it was usually met with a declination. But last week there was a picnic at Victory Point and one of the activities included chipping golf balls into the pond. You made a few solid connections, and I think you even surprised yourself. 

So we immediately dusted off my golf clubs and headed to Wallinwood near our house. While we were walking out the range, you said, "Jacob and I went golfing the other day, and I almost beat him!" This didn't surprise me because golf is a game of grace, and you have a lot of it! I also liked the idea of you two going golfing together, because it's a great activity for couples to laugh and have fun. You seem so mature and in love with each other and honestly I'm happy for you both,

While we smacked golf balls all over Jenison, I couldn't help but watch you. Making adjustments. Shuffling your feet. Switching clubs. Giggling. 80% of your connections sliced in an unintentional direction... but occasionally you would absolutely destroy the drive and watch the ball sail through the air. I noticed that you love to be affirmed by your dad, so I was your biggest cheerleader. You were rocking your new $100 sunglasses and commented that they had a lifetime guarantee. "Just don't lose them, kid." 

I loved our time together today. I know we don't have many more opportunities like this. You'll go back to school for your senior year, then sports, then college, then I'll rarely see you. And I'm already sad.