Full Day

Upper Falls … captured on June 21, 2009 - 5D

Well, I was not disappointed. I started my day taking Matthew to soccer practice. The other Dads and I talked about Toronto FC and other such soccer nonsense before taking part a the Father's Day scrimmage. Believe it or not, this was my first ever soccer game. Until today, I've never actually played but watched from the sidelines. I assumed a right-back defensive position, fully in charge of…Matthew, the red team's left-footed striker. We played for probably half an hour and I have to say, it's pretty tiring. Unlike running or biking—which requires constant but steady effort—soccer requires frequent bursts of speed. I was pretty pooped by the end of it but did manage to hold my own, heading away the ball on a set piece and keeping tabs on the Lad. He did, however get around me a couple of times and would have scored had the ball been passed to him.

Behind the Barrel … captured on June 21, 2009 - 5D

Throughout our little match, I kept watching for Jennifer and Marina who had promised to pick us up after the game. I had hoped she'd get to share in this experience. She did arrive near the end of the scrimmage, catching the last five minutes. With her were René, Danielle and Chloe. Gathering our gear, we piled into the van—the two girls in the front and the kids in the back. It was a lovely, sunny day with a high near 31ºC. We headed South to Burlington, stopping by a Golden Griddle for brunch. The meal wasn't all that great, but we enjoyed the company although the kids were certainly antsy.

Marina's Slimy Friend … captured on June 21, 2009 - 5D

After brunch, we drove off along the QEW, rounding Hamilton. I still had no idea where we were going, guessing the Father's Day Hamilton Air Show and Niagara Falls. Waterfalls would play a role as 30 or so minutes later, we pulled into the Ball's Falls Conservancy area. We hiked along the Twenty Mile Creek and took in both the upper and lower falls. The ground cover was unbelievably green—almost too green—and the air was heavy and humid. We eventually walked through a restored village which included a flour mill, a lime kiln, church, family home, blacksmith shop, carriage shed, and more. We took the time to refresh ourselves with a walk across the creek barefoot before driving back to Toronto.

Traffic was pretty heavy but we made it back at our place (a change from the usual) and enjoyed BBQ burgers and perhaps one drink too many. The laughs came easily and the children kept themselves busy turning the house upside down. At least they had a good time; as did the adults. So, all in all, it was a wonderful Father's Day. Although truth be told, I might need another day to recover.

Comments

[Moppy]

So pleased a good time was had by all and that you had a go at playing a bit of soccer.

[Grandpapa]

Well, looks like a full and wonderful day. Glad you had a great time.