Summer soccer

Casey had his first experience in an "organized" sport over the summer. It was a four-week soccer camp through the Cross Plains Parks and Rec department--a very casual introduction to soccer. They practiced some kicking drills and played some scrimmages, but basically it was just a chance to spend some time running around outside and meet some kids his own age.

Here he is before his first practice ... that must be his game face.

And here he's showing off his spiffy new jersey. The kids were divided into four small teams, and Casey's team was called the Lizards.

Kicking drills ... aka a lesson in standing in line and taking turns

A new friend? Casey seemed to spend a lot of time wrestling and laughing with this kid.

More kicking drills ...

And still more kicking ... is that all they do in soccer?

Chris and I alternated being able to watch Casey and playing with Darby at the adjacent playground. Casey enjoyed the soccer and says he wants to play again next summer, but honestly Darby is the one who seemed to come away with a passion for the sport. It was all we could do to keep the little guy off the field with the big kids, and now whenever we're outside one of his favorite things to do is kick the little soccer ball around. He's actually a pretty good dribbler, but he hasn't learned the no-hands rule yet.

Also, he looks cute in his dad's hat.