The O'Reilley Challenge
Today was the day Sydnie has been anticipating for a long time: her first NASCAR race! Every year she asks to go with Daddy and friends, but unfortunately, has been allowed that rite of passage.
Knowing her dislike of large crowds and loud noises, it was a decision we made very purposefully, waiting until we thought she would actually be able to enjoy the experience. Am I glad we waited. The smile on her face was truly priceless!
Donned in her M&M's race shirt and National Guard jacket, she was so excited on the drive to the race track I thought she might explode! Wiggling, counting down every few minutes, worried we wouldn't be allowed in the gates if we were late to arrive- the anticipation was palpable. Unfortunately, we were a few minutes late. We watched the drive over from the parking lot and were just outside the track when we heard the call for engines to start and the rumble of motors began. "Wow! You can hear them out here. It's so loud!" Grinning even larger, it was looking like a great day unfolding.
Our dear friends the Fikes joined us in celebrating "the first race". We missed the Hatchers, but they were with us in thoughts. Without writing a play-by-play, let's just say it was a success and Sydnie wants to return! She bounced in her seat watching the race; looked at most of the haulers to "get the full experience" but was anxious to get back to the race so she didn't "miss anything" on the track; saw a car catch on fire; and a really good burn-out. 200 laps was a good length of time for her first race and she couldn't believe how short it felt. What's the saying? Leave them wanting more? I think we did. There were no complaints of the noise, the crowd was not bad-I think Tim has a new race buddy!
"It was even cooler than I expected!" We were right to wait. If only all parenting decisions were so clear and easy. We just have to be grateful for those moments and keep them close.
Happy Racing
