Bearkat Bash

Klein HS does their annual Bearkat Bash and it is a family tradition to always support our schools and the High School Ehrhardt feeds into.  So, this year Charles ran the 5K and Cade ran the 1K again.  Last year did not go so well as he had just turned 3 and was NOT in to running.  Anyway, we had a brief chat in the car about it being for fun, and just trying our best.  Cade was SO EXCITED to be in a "race" and even Caelin kept yelling "Meeeee too!".  When we arrived, I thought Charles was going to run with him.  My heart sank a little as I watched my baby who just turned 4 yrs old running by himself.  Being so young (I think one of the youngest), he surprised me in so many way!  He NEVER stopped running.  More impressive than that was the fact that he was not upset to be alone.  I thought if he was in a group, it would be fine.  But the older kids quickly passed him up and left him alone running.  GULP!  I of course did the over protective Mom thing and ran across the field cheering him on.  At one point while I was taking pictures, he called out, "Hey Mom, I am just trying my best!"  That is when I began to tear up.  It was kind of one of those moments when you realize they are growing up and can fly a little on their own.  Not the easiest parent moments to go through, but I have never been prouder of Cade.  His confidence and self motivation to keep going even when others have left him, was so astonishing to me and I know Cade will do great things in life.  Throughout the race, Gamee and Caelin yelled for him as well.  Caelin just loves her brother (most of the time).  When he finished the race, I ran to hug him and told him how proud I was.  He told me, "Look Mom, I got a ribbon AND A BOTTLE OF WATER!"  There you have it everyone...case closed.  Congratulations Cade on running your first 1K.  We love you and are so proud!