Soccer Wrap-Up: Go Cobras!
We’re wrapping up our fifth soccer season, and what a ride it’s been. After moving up a division last fall, and getting our butts handed to us on a bigger field, I wasn’t sure what to expect this spring. But listen to me—we showed up.
The boys came back stronger, faster, more focused. We’re finding a rhythm, chemistry, and some real growth happening out there. I had 12 players this season (instead of the usual 10) and while managing 12 energetic 8/9-year-olds ain’t easy, it’s been so worth it. I’ve had a few of these young men since the very beginning and watching their progress (on and off the field) is the most rewarding part.
Proud soccer mom moment: Arrington scored five goals in a single game! His attack, focus, and confidence in that outside midfielder role are shining.
This weekend wraps the season—and we could end it in 2nd place! Coaching wasn’t on my bingo card, but I truly love the competitiveness, the challenge, and the bond. Even if I spend half my time trying to teach discipline, teamwork, and how not to leave your water bottles after the game…it’s a whole blessing.
Netflix Nights: To Be ‘Forever’ Young
I love a good teen drama, and Forever on Netflix checked every box. But what surprised me most? How much I was pulled in by the parents.
This series follows high school sweethearts Justin (played by Dallas native Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha (Lovie Simone). But for me, it’s Justin’s parents—Eric and Dawn ( Wood Harris and Karen Pittman)—who steal the show. Their chemistry and care feel so real as they navigate raising a young Black man with passion and compassion—balance. Wood Harris grounds the entire family with calm, steady strength that reminds me of the kind of fatherhood we need to see more of on screen.
I binged all eight episodes while recovering from a 24-hour stomach bug—definitely a silver lining. Can’t wait for season two!
Kickin’ It Into Year Two
This past Mother’s Day marked one year since I first stepped barefoot onto the Taekwondo mat—and I haven’t looked back. Two days a week, me and the kids have shown up, stretched out, sweated through it, and leveled up. It’s been a journey of discipline, grit, and family bonding I never saw coming.
Honestly, I love it. I love the workout. I love watching my kids thrive. I love pushing my body in new ways (even if that body occasionally pushes back—hello sore knees and mystery bruises). I didn’t plan for martial arts to be part of my healing or parenting, but it’s been such a powerful addition. And yes, I’ll be grateful for this two-month break while we’re road-tripping—my hips need it.
But let me tell you…there is something magical about learning a skill you dreamed about as a kid. I was a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan—Michelangelo was my guy, and those nunchucks? Iconic. Now? I got nunchucks too. You should see me spinning them, eyes closed. A whole badass 1980s action movie.
This past Saturday, we tested and moved from blue to blue with white stripe—onward to the advanced class! Just four belts stand between us and black. We’re out here setting goals and kicking through them—literally.
East Coast, We Coming!
Y’all, we’re packed up, passports are ready, and the RV is gassed up—because this summer? We have plans of hittin’ the entire East Coast.
This will be our longest trip yet—about two months on the road, six of us deep, making memories, dodging traffic, and leaning all the way into the adventure. We headed west last time, so now it’s eastbound with a loose plan (emphasis on loose) to hit the Smoky Mountains, Niagara Falls, at least two of the Great Lakes, wild horses on the coast, lighthouses, museums, delicious eats, and maybe even whales. Canada is in the mix too. Don’t play with us—we stay ready!
The RV internet is secured, our guidance app is loaded, and we had a proper family meeting to gather all “must-see” spots. (I’ve been dubbed the Official Navigator.) We don’t do hard itineraries—the magic always lives in the unknown detours and surprise side-road stops. And some of our best memories have come from getting “lost.”
We’re rolling out with a crew of six, high spirits, and one very important family rule: At any point, if you’re over it, say the word—we’ll get you to the nearest airport, no hard feelings, no questions asked. We’ll love you tomorrow.
Also…your girl turns 44 on the road this summer! And—spoiler alert—we’ll be ending the trip with a little cruise action (more on that later). But for now, it’s all about the open road, laughter, snacks, playlists, and adventures. Let’s go!
BTW: “A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.” – Lao Tzu
How are you stepping into summer? Hit reply or drop a comment—I’d love to hear what adventures (big or small) are calling your name this season.
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