Hockey – whiskybaker

We are all hockey people

They talked about the crash at school today.

Q: But I didn’t hear much from the teachers because the kids were talking.

So I did my best with the story. As best I can with a sensitive 7-year-old.

From the Red Deer News online: http://rdnewsnow.com/article/578615/rdpsd-students-show-support-humboldt-jersey-day-thursday

(Mid-way through trying to explain why the hockey team was on the bus and where they were going and so on)

Q: But how did they get to the game?

Me: Dude – they didn’t go to the game. They couldn’t.

Q: But the ones who were still there? Oh wait. They all couldn’t right? They were either dead or really really hurt.

*** Silence ***

Q: There was something about leaving a stick outside?

Me: Some people are leaving them outside the door to show a sign that we’re thinking about them and their friends and family.

Q: We have two sticks. Can we leave one at each door?

Later I remembered we have a side door. So my player’s stick (you know, the non-goalie stick) went out there. #putyoursticksout #humboldtstrong

And it all works out in the end…

To be added to the “it works out in the end” file….

I was half-joking about never having any money ever again thanks to Q’s activities and the house and wanting a new piano etc. And _then_ Q says that he wants to try hockey this year.

Captain Zoom before a Marlies’ game last season

I put off buying equipment. Avoided it for a bit. Especially over the summer when he grows like a weed. And also trying to figure out how to budget for equipment he’ll grow out of in a year. Sigh.

So imagine my delight when I receive the following e-mail:

Hello Parents

I am happy to announce:

The … Hockey School programme, has been lucky enough to be selected this year to partake in The Maple Leafs Grass Roots Skating Partnership. What that means for you, is that among other benefits, your child will be fitted for and supplied with Full Gear (this does not include jock/jill or neck guard). This programme is open to all first time registered Hockey School participants. Full details regarding the programme along with details regarding equipment fitting dates and location will be provided shortly. You and your child must attend!

The Executive … are thrilled to be able to offer this program to you at no cost. Please join us in thanking the Maple Leafs for bringing this awesome and terrific program to our community!

EEK! We’re going to go this Friday to get Q all kitted up. I’m a bit excited. And extremely grateful to the Maple Leafs Grass Roots Skating Partnership. (Not sure where actually to link to so that’s the MLSE Foundation link)

Considering Q still half thinks I’m the goalie for the Leafs this is just adding to the legend.