Our Littlest Hockey Player (and his gentle side)

We're in a "wake up, go to school/work, come home, eat, sleep" routine this week. I'm still getting over my 4th bad cold in 6 months and am head first in what might be the toughest work project of my career.

Shawn is playing more hockey than usual these days, which brings about today's post. He brought in one of his sticks the other day and Ian had a great time swinging it precariously around the room. In about a year, we'll be able to buy him his first skates and hopefully one day we'll be showing off pictures of our star's beginnings.

He's actually using excellent form in the first picture...and further solidifying my suspicions that he is left handed.

The final picture is an adorable example of how much Ian loves Polli. He put his blanket over her and was rubbing her back while softly la'la-ing what sounded like a lullaby. He was re-enacting when we put him to bed. It was really touching. I think she does so much to teach him sharing and compassion. He loves to do things with her that he enjoys himself...like being chased, tickling, sharing snacks, kisses, and this. He even waves goodbye to her as we go in his room to get ready for bed at night. What greater friend is there for a little boy than his dog?

They didn't list stick handling in the motor skills evaluations

"Sweeping the zone" is an important defense strategy.

Ian prepares to hook the competition. The play was stopped...or else he would have gotten 5 for fighting.

A hockey player is only as good as his coach.

A tender moment between Ian and Polli.