XC = :)

One of the perks of having a sporty spice niece is that it introduces me to events I never thought I'd have to learn about. Tap. Irish Dance. Track. Soccer. Now we get to enter the world of Cross Country. Since this is Emma's Senior year it may be surprising that she is tackling a new sport, but the reason is there. 

In the words of my sister: 

"Two weeks ago Emma tried out for soccer. She has played since she was 5. Was team captain her freshman year, made JV her sophomore year. Junior year she was a JV/Varsity swing player. This year, her senior year, she was one of two players to be cut. The reason? She didn't have the club soccer experience. Instead the coach put 7 incoming freshman on varsity because they were better and had the club experience he loves. But in Oregon if you don't play on varsity you don't play. You can't play on a JV team.  Needless to say it was very upsetting and a total shock to Emma and to those that know and love her. Instead of sitting around being sad, Emma decided to join the cross country team. This morning she finished in the top ten of her particular race. We are so proud of her. She is an example of trying new things, not giving up and not letting this ruin her senior year". 

I've been to two meets now and my thoughts... It's like Frosted Flakes ... "They're Great"! Everyone laughs, yells for their runner, cheers for other runners, traipse through the course to watch the different points.... It's fun all around! 

Four of the Top Ten of Novice Division! 

Eliza and Emma

Emma and Alli

Focus

Determination 

Perseverance