So proud

Today my 7 year-old punkin' participated in a local Lego building competition hosted by our local library.  He'd signed up earlier this month and was so excited the day had finally come!  This morning I remember him saying, "I hope I win something!".  I quickly replied to him that while that would be a fun treat, the reason for this event was to showcase all of the kids' hard work while getting inspiration for new Lego creations.  Of course it probably went in one ear and out the other.

We headed out this afternoon to drop off his entry and get him all registered as part of the competition.

 
 First, he was asked to fill out his entry form, complete with his name, grade, and the title and description of his creation.  Of course he used nearly ALL the space to describe it!  He's a fan of writing (this REALLY makes me proud!). 

Then we made our way around the room to check out a few of the other entries in the other grade categories.  There are some seriously talented kids out there!  I wish I would've snapped pics of the other entries, but two of them that stand out in my memory are the Mickey Mouse ears and the Lego easter basket!  

Afterwards, the kids and I headed out so the judging could begin.  We were asked to return around 4 p.m. for the awards ceremony.  I was such a proud mom already that I truly didn't care if Nathan placed in the competition or not.  I truly just wanted it to be about the experience and not necessarily about the competition.

So when the awards ceremony came around, the facilitator called each participant one by one and they received a colorful participation certificate.  It was everyone's chance to have an applause that they so very much deserved! 

Then it was on to the first round of awards, which were for the K-2nd grades, which was Nathan's category.  They called out three Honorable Mention awards and when Nathan's name wasn't called I just KNEW that he had placed in the competition for his group!  And then his name was called -- he placed 3rd overall for the K-2 grade level! 

Oh my goodness, I was so proud to share in this moment with him!  To say that he ADORES Legos and Lego-building is such an understatement!  So he cheerfully walked up to receive his award while the entire room applauded.  A white 3rd place ribbon, a Borders Bookstore gift card, and a keepsake award certificate -- he was excited and proud!

He's so excited to know that his creation will be showcased, along with all of the other winners in his and other grade levels, at the main library for about a month.  He's asked me to take him there once they've set up the display so he can get some pictures along with it and to see his work on display.

I feel very blessed that he's my child and I am so grateful for these years that are filled with wonder, fun, and learning!  I hope that as a mother, I will be able to do my best to continue to encourage and support their successes and hobbies!

What are your kids' favorite hobbies and passions?  How do you help to nurture their competitive spirit while keeping them level-headed?