Real Estate in Denver and the Suburbs

So a brief diversion from Denver real estate chat - as our family had a milestone this week. 

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending a short clinic with my son.  He plays ice hockey. 

He started playing roller hockey at about 6 and then at 8 switched to ice. 

Laura, my wife was always a little nervous about that day. 

That day he advanced to checking.

I have to admit, I was a bit as well but not for the same reasons. 

He has always been the type of kid that has shied away from the most physical sports and hockey, although seen as very physical sport - it is not so much at an early age.  I really wasn't sure what was going to happen when he had to learn to check.  He is an excellent stick handler and when the boy gets the puck, watch out.  But he really hasn't been one to get in there & get aggressive.  I have always wondered if he would play once he advanced from the "squirt" league to the "pee-wee" age and needed to learn to check. 

So Laura has always said, well at least it will be a long while until we have to worry about that.

A long while came to fruition yesterday as he attended that first checking clinic.  He actually did just fine and said it was the most fun hockey class he had ever taken.  Shocker.

Laura was sad.  Not just because of the idea of him potentially getting hit, but she and I both realized without even having to say it, that time has passed.  What was once a long time in coming, is here.

At 11, the clock is ticking.  We are enjoying every moment.  We cringe at every smart aleck comeback he has when pushing our buttons (but I secretly chuckle at how funny & clever some of them are).  We revel in the intelligent conversations he has with us about Greek mythology, philosophers and the deep intricacies of science he is now interested in.   We laugh hysterically at the amusing jokes he is coming up with.  We smile to see that he is excited to start middle school.  But the clock is ticking. 

Is it possible to be happy and sad at the same time?