Tag Archives: Swimming

Art, Creativity, My Story

Life of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 46

1 Comment

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 45

Chapter 46

“So let me understand. You want to be co captains?”

I looked to Chad and he nodded to me. “Yes, Coach. We both want to be captains simultaneously.”

“I had hoped there would be only one leader. However, what is your plan for this arrangement.” Coach settled back into his chair.

“Well Coach. As you know I did not choose my friends wisely these last three years,” Chad had wanted to explain our reasonings.

Coach nodded.

“So you giving us the chance to choose a captain; made me think about if I could actually do the job. Believe me, I didn’t want to listen to George when he told me that he thought I couldn’t do it to the fullest ability. But I didn’t want to blow him off, because that’s what Bryan would have done. I don’t want to be anything like him. So I heard George out. He wants us to co captain. Because then the rest of the team will slowly begin to respect me again. It will help to be working with the person they see as their leader already. George will co captain with me to show that things have changed; that the bully side to the upperclassmen is gone. That things will change.”

It was my turn to bring our proposal home, “so Coach we will co captain until closer to finals. Then around that time we will decide who should be the lead captain. But this seems to me the only way that Chad could possibly be the captain. That he needs to gain the respect of everyone else first.” Now it was Coach’s choice. He could say no and make us decide.

Coach didn’t answer. He just sat in his silent stance.

I can never read what he is thinking.

“Well it’s not what I expected, but I must say I’m proud of both of you. That fact that you didn’t just want to cover up everything; that you actually want to change things for the better is quite impressive. This is why I made you both discuss it. Because at this moment in time I didn’t think Chad would be able to gain the respect of his teammates. That there would be more chaos than leadership. But I also didn’t think that you George were quite ready to fully lead. You partially lead, but to be the full time leader is more work. So I approve of your decision. I think this will work out quite well. Maybe this way will help change everything, because then it is never just one with all the power. It will be kept fair. I do quite like this,” Coach smiled before taking a sip of his coffee.

‘It’s eerie to see Coach smile.’ “So should we announce it officially at the mock meet tomorrow? Or should we just start spreading the word?”

“Go ahead and spread the word. I actually want things to change on this team. I think that’s the only way for great swimmers to come out of this program again. That it’s less about the official roles on the team, but that the environment is more relaxed for you swimmers to focus on what matters. The pool. This is great. I’m excited for tomorrow. It will be interesting to see who will be the A stringers. Anything can happen. Especially if there is no intimidation from Bryan and his gang. Okay. Go back to your dorms and prepare for tomorrow.”

I let the breath I was holding in, out slowly. Relief flooded me. He accepted our proposal, but he seemed very interested in the outcome of this change. That was my initial intention. I wanted things to change. To do what Coach had asked of me. To change this team. And to do that, it doesn’t have to just be because of a new leader; but because of the whole dynamic of the team. That any string athlete can an A stringer. That not one person has all the power and control. That not another Bryan would happen. That swimming would be the focus! How it should be. I too was excited for tomorrow. Anything could happen.

…

Art, Creativity, My Story

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 44

1 Comment

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 43

CHAPTER 44

School yesterday seemed to be better. Maybe without the constant stupidity of running into the upperclassmen, my days were becoming less stressful. I was actually able to focus on my classes; I even was able to complete homework assignments in classes. Which in turn, allowed me to catch a nap in the afternoon before practice. So I was able to be refreshed, and ready to go again.

After the day of helping Chad, the upperclassmen left me alone. Chad had told the other guys to leave me alone; at least until Bryan returns. So hopefully I can figure out college and be better situated for the mock meet.

…

“Everyone gather around,” Coach called out to everyone as we did our stretches.

We all walked over confused at the sudden change. Maybe it was another one of coach’s last minute changes that means death or learning. I’m hoping for learning.

“Bryan has switched schools. He is now leading the Eagles team in Helena. Our rival school.”

‘What? He left?’ I looked to coach but he did not look my way.

“I am guessing Bryan used his family’s name to be able to pull such a stunt. And as you can see a few other A string teammates are gone as well.”

I checked over to where the upperclassmen usually stood, and only Chad stood there. ‘What is going on? Bryan was not the type to run away. He seemed more like the type to be kicked off the team before leaving.’

“I’m telling you all this, just to let you be aware. Not that it changes anything. The mock meet will still tell me who will be the A string athletes. But now there are more spots open, as long as you want it enough you have a chance. Now get in the pool.” Coach started off to his chair. Like all was back to normal.

“Coach,” I had caught up to him. “What’s going on?”

“George. Set an example and listen to your coach. We can talk after practice. Now go.”

Coach was right. No sense in arguing. I walked back over to the top lane. Chad stood there too. The lane beneath me looked to me for the warm-up set. ‘Lead George. You are the leader now.’ “Eight hundred freestyle warmup. Let’s go!” I leapt into the pool.

…

“What happened Coach?” I stood in Coach’s office. Jeremy and Chad had both stayed behind.

“Bryan tried to get you kicked off the team.”

“What! Why and how could he try to do that?”

“Oh, believe me George. If I had not been the coach, Bryan and his father would had succeeded. Had I not been notified of their last minute meeting with the headmaster you would have been probably expelled.”

Coach cut me off before I could respond.

“They I were trying to twist the truth about why Bryan was suspended from the team. That it was all your fault, for manipulating and falsifying what really happened. They painted you in such poor light by the time I arrived. Luckily I had the video on my phone and I killed their scheme. Which in turn made them look bad. And before the headmaster could give them their verdict they exclaimed they quit this school and left the office.” Coach rubbed his forehead and seemed to stare into nothingness.

‘Wow. I knew Bryan was coward. But I never thought him to be a quitter. Really I thought he would be someone to be kicked off the team before just running away. What a disappointment of my rival.’ “What now Coach?”

“Between the two of you, you must decide who will now lead this team.”

I looked at Chad. He seemed determined. But I didn’t know if the rest of the team would listen to him. Since he was originally part of the upperclassman group. Not that I wanted the role. I didn’t think I was ready for that, but everyone listened to me already.

“I don’t want to be the referee on this decision. Go back and discuss it among yourselves. But starting tomorrow this team needs leadership. Now go back to your dorms.”

…

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Well…

Leave a comment

Name the most expensive personal item you’ve ever purchased (not your home or car).

Haha! I was going to say house or car. But since that’s not an option, then…a dress.

It was around the time I was coaching high school swimming. Turned out they needed more chaperones for prom night. I jumped at the opportunity!

I was homeschooled; so I had to be asked by someone who went to a public school to experience prom. I was. My friend’s brother at the time. The getting ready was the best part of prom. But then once there, I was left at a table where I ended up playing Jin rummy all night long with another guy that was left at the table. It was still fun, but I afterwards felt that I never got to experience prom.

So when I heard they needed help at prom, In a heartbeat, jumped at the opportunity. I was told to dress up so that I would blend into the students. So I got to experience everything again!!

I went out to buy a new dress. New prom, new dress. Made sense in my brain. The theme of the prom was Great Gatsby. So of course, sparkly or beaded.

Safe to say I wasn’t paying attention to the price of the dress. I tried it on, and it fit like a glove!

Yeah….it was $300.00! I was shocked. So I had to call my mom first.

“Mom. I found the perfect dress. But it’s $300. Is that too much?”

“That’s a bit much, but if you believe you will wear it more than once the quality of the dress will be worth the amount. It’s your decision. I’m excited to see whatever you decide when you get home.”

‘Neither yes, or no. Had to be my decision. Learning lesson’ “Okay thanks mom.”

I course told myself I would wear it more than once! So they rang me up and my card was denied. ‘What!!’ I knew I had more than enough money to buy the dress. I was currently working two jobs and I was still at home. So I again had to call my mom. Turned out I had a limit on my card of $50 as a precaution. So you can see that I rarely used my card. So as soon as I figured everything out the dress was mine.

Prom was just as exciting. I got to walk around the museum. Look at all the exhibits. I saw some of my swimmers dancing. They were surprised I was in dress. Normally I wore pants or shorts to coach. Some of my swimmers didn’t know who I was until someone called out “Coach!”

But all around it was a fun night. And it made up for my previous prom.

And I did. I wore it once more. So two wears for $300 is more like two dresses for $150, right? That sounds better.

And I took care of the dress. Proper cleaning and storing. But either I’ll wear it again. Or my daughters will have a dress ready and waiting for them when they need one. But my true goal is to shrink back down and fit into it again. My husband will have to take me somewhere if that happens.

$300. That was my big splurge on one personal item. After that I stayed in my safe price range for dresses. $50-$100 a dress. $100 had to be something I was going to wear several times. But usually I stuck to the $50 range. Where I felt more comfortable. Or I would shop in the clearance section. Saving money gives me an energy.

Which is probably why I’m still that way, but also not. I make do. If I want something, I really dwell on if we really need it or not. For weeks. And usually I decide I don’t NEED it. But sometimes I get the urge to shop. And the urge won’t go away. But luckily we have a great thrift store in town. $1 for each item. So I go in there and spend $10-$20. And I get some things for me, for my kids, for the kitchen, for school, for storage. Usually I only spend $10. That’s enough.

That is enough to suffice my urge to spend money. My husband is okay with me spending $10 once every couple months. However, I really can’t wait until we have an allowance again!! Because I also get an energy from saving actual money. If I have a jar and actual hard cash in my hand it goes into the jar. I once saved up $500 and that was $40 twice a month. Needless to say I get competitive with myself. “One more day! One more day!”

Usually I don’t even spend the money on me. I spend it on my husband, my kiddos, my mom. It makes me happy to buy things for others. But this time around I’m going to try and think about spending some on me. Like set aside at the end of saving about $200. That I have to spend on myself. Because when we go on trips or to different places I occasionally find something I want to buy and I’ve spent my allowances already. So I’m going to try; and believe me it’s going to be difficult. Or maybe I won’t, and I’ll save up until Christmas and buy everyone presents. I like the sound of that plan!

So yeah. I’ve changed. I was once someone who would go to Ross, on a Saturday, and spend $300-$500 dollars on a whole new wardrobe. To now, someone who gets a drive from saving money or spends $10 every two months when I need to buy something.

Have a great day!!

The dress…kind of.

I realized it’s been over 10 years since I wore the dress. So I don’t have the original picture on my phone. But I had edited a photo of the dress and this is the best I could do. It was a steely blue. Completely beaded. Floor length. A classic. But heavy!! So even in 10-15 more years it will still be in style.

Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Yes! To Me…

1 Comment

Do you have any collections?

I actually have a few things I have collected over the years.

The first: Glass figurines.

I don’t know why I actually started to collect them. I think it was because my grandma really enjoyed buying them and gifting them to me. I can remember the first one well. My grandparents took me to Disneyland for a birthday, and my grandma bought me a sleeping beauty figurine. That was the start. Then for every birthday she gave me a new figurine. I have so many, but with little kiddos they have been living in a box a few years. Once my daughter is bigger I’ll let her see them.

Number two: Physical Movies.

I know the world has become digital over the years but I love owning dvd or blu ray movies. My family has always done this. I’m always wanting to add to my collection; as I walk by the five dollar Walmart bin. I once dug through that bin and organized it. Tells you what a party person I was when I was a teenager. I found it quite fun to do, a late night at Walmart. Haha!

My husband’s and mine’s movies almost filled one of those sleeved cases. Two hundred total.

Third Collection: Awards

This one doesn’t seem like a collection, but I’ve kept all my ribbons, medals, trophies, and plaques, from my many years of swimming. That bin weighs a ton. But in the past I’ve enjoyed pulling them out and thinking back to those days. They were some of my favorite memories. From the age four all the way to nineteen. I don’t know what I’ll do with them later on in life… but I like them, so I will move the heavy bin around from home to home. (Or the husband will move the heavy bin. It really is heavy!)

I have other things I’ve collected. Decks of cards, dice, art supplies, books, stuffed animals, etc.

I have troubles with throwing things away. Or giving things away. Because you never know when you want to play cards, and I’ve slowly collected them over the years from different places.

When you are about to play a board game and it’s missing the dice….? I can help.

Art supplies. I never have to buy any. I just take the supplies that people are giving away.

Books. I’m planning on homeschooling my kids so depending on where we end up living I want to have almost a library of books. Also…then there is no fear of a weird inappropriate book coming into my home. Every book in our home I’ve read and approved.

Stuffed animals. I kept a large percentage of my childhood stuffed animals. Which worked great with our kiddos. They both love the various animals.

So even though I collect various things they all have a purpose. It works out; my husband also likes to collect things. But his collections seem to always need to spend more money. Haha! My collections are cheap, whereas I try to keep him on budget.

Enjoy your Thursday!! Hubby is home!! The house is a happy house once again.

Fluke Spring Snowstorm

Randomly started snowing today. The snow flakes looked almost the size of my sons hands.

Adventures, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Done Many Dumb Things…But No.

Leave a comment

Have you ever broken a bone?

I’ve never actually truly broken a bone. I’ve been hurt. Severely hurt, but it’s never been broken.

I can think back through my childhood and remember sprains and deep bruises, and torn muscles. But no broken bones.

I wore roller blades in the house without a helmet on the second story, and fell down the stairs. But miraculously I was okay.

I tried the “sledding” when on a skateboard with my dog towing me, and she went so fast I fell off the skateboard and scraped almost all my skin off my limbs but no broken bones.

Swimming, I hit someone in the head with my thumb so hard they got a huge bruise, and my thumb throbbed, but no broken bones.

I ran into a teammates shoulder (with my face) and got my lip pressed into my braces. Lots of blood but nothing broke. Not even the braces.

I punched myself in the face with a paint scraper. Gave myself a minor concussion and lost some blood. An Ambulance had to come and take me to the hospital because I passed out while standing. But no broken bones.

I hurt my back enough that it stopped my swimming career, but the doctors couldn’t find the culprit.

There’s several more things. I know I sprained the same elbow more than four times. But it was never enough to break any bones.

Probably why my kids are so resilient. Their bones are strong like their mama.

I guess the only time it might have counted was when I was really little. I don’t know exactly what age…eight…ten…? Something like that. Just imagine two brothers and one sister. Plus two hula hoops over lapped. The brothers were on the outside, the sister (me) in the middle. The brothers begin to play tug-o-war. The sister trips and falls, and the brothers fall on top of her. Which causes the sister to bust up her lip and twist and chip a tooth. So much blood.

I still have it to this day. I could get it capped but it doesn’t bother me. It also has memories. Yes, some bad memories, but also I remember playing with my brothers. That day was almost twenty years ago. Wow. Time does fly.

So I guess I did break something. One tooth. I’m doing pretty good for being a adventurous child. I did so many dumb things in the past.

Enjoy your Sunday!! I will be having a quiet peaceful Sunday with my kiddos. ❤️ Also!

Happy Birthday Mama!!! 💕

Digital Art
By: emily2jane
5-19-24
Art, Creativity, Short Stories, Uncategorized

Short Story #4

2 Comments

‘Why won’t he notice me? I’ve done everything possible.’ I made sure to be in his classes. Made sure to be his desk partner. I help him with assignments; but I don’t think he actually sees me, just my answers. I try to sit nearby him at lunch; a couple tables away, but he can still see me. I joined a swim team to share his sport; I’m not really a sport person. I’ve attempted to learn about cars and hockey to share his hobbies; that’s not going so well either. But still, nothing. ‘Why not me?’

Instead it’s Lucy Marshall. The popular girl in school. She’s perfect. She has the looks, the smile, and I guess the personality. A personality that doesn’t care about a guy’s preferences; one that is all about me, me, me. But here I am trying to be the perfect girl. But no, I’m not at all on his radar.

Jordan Johnson. That’s his name by the way. He’s the most popular guy at school. He is every girl’s fantasy. But anyone who is not Lucy Marshall has no chance.

‘Here I am daydreaming about my desk make and I’m not at all paying attention to the teacher. Doesn’t really matter. I ace all the tests anyways.’ Probably a result of being homeschooled for my freshman and sophomore years. I think my mom taught me everything I needed to know in two years…

But at least I get to eyeball Jordan at swim practice. Finally the season is here! Three months. Only three more months of junior year. If I don’t get noticed; it’s never going to happen. I’ll have to try now, as I step back onto the pool deck. The pool deck is where dreams are started.

I peek over at Jordan. ‘Wow. His body was made for swimming. His body seemed to be sculpted to perfection.’ Thankfully I was in a pool or people would see the drool running down my chin. How was it possible to be so lost in someone? Especially someone who doesn’t know you even exist. ‘Right. I was going to make that change. But how?’ WHACK!

Throbbing pain! My forehead was on fire. Before I could think to ask a question I just heard laughter. Laughter around me…? No it was directed at me. When my eyes began to focus once more, I could see everyone staring at me. Pointing. Laughing. Everyone. Even Jordan was snickering. ‘That hurt.’ But being hit in the forehead wasn’t enough to cause this reaction…until I felt it. I had reached up and felt where my forehead had been; instead a large golfball sized bump had formed. I knew I probably looked ridiculous, but I was still in pain. Didn’t anyone care that I might actually be hurt?

Suddenly I was scooped up under my armpits, and out of the pool; steadied on the deck, and then pick up by someone. My head was spinning and I couldn’t concentrate. But I did hear the name calling.

“Yeah take away the eye sore.”

Also, “Egg head! Let’s call her egg head!”

I passed out to the giant eruption of laughter. ‘I want to go back to homeschooling.’

.-.-.Senior Year.-.-.

Well I did just what I wanted. It was the first thing I told my mom after I had recovered from my concussion and three day coma. And it being the first thing out of my mouth; my mother did not argue with me. I finished out my junior year being homeschooled. I know I shouldn’t care, and that they are just a bunch of dumb kids; but I reinvented myself. I was no longer the scared, quiet, intimidated girl.

After quitting public school and also the swim team, I realized how much I actually enjoyed swimming. So I have to thank butthead for making me try out something, I originally wouldn’t have tried. I love it! ‘Yes. His name is butthead now. After I saw him snickering at my pain, that was it. The thought of him now disgusted me.’ Also now that I’ve joined a private swim team, and I’ve swam all summer; I’ve met better guys. Not that I’m instantly attracted to them or anything, but that they are actual decent human beings. Even one of them is the reason I have ventured back into public high school. ‘Yep. That’s right. I’m back.’ Because Charlie, my new guy friend, challenged me to go back and destroy the girls’ records. Which I’m excited to do. Swim season starts tomorrow!!

But school. These last six months have flown by. It’s amazing when you don’t focus all your energy on one outlet, that you can do so much more. I’ve gotten A’s as always. But I’ve been apart of different clubs. The dance club, art club, ceramics club, radio club, etc. I thought I might as well try everything before high school is over and done.

I have seen him. Occasionally. Not that I’ve been seeking him out, but that we have crossed paths. The first time I saw him, I got sick to my stomach. Happy to know that the sight of him still made me feel disgusted; how did I ever like him? And I would like to say that my lack of presence around him has not phased him one bit. Thankfully I was not on his radar last year; or the probable constant tormenting would have been unbearable.

Let’s start fresh.

.-.-.-.

Swim season has been underway for almost a month. I’ve gotten better and better. Enough so, that I’m in the second fastest lane. The only people faster than me is: Jordan, Michael, Miguel, Nathan, and Charlie. ‘Yep. My friend Charlie. I don’t know why I didn’t know he had been on the team all four years. I’m blaming it on my lack of good visibility. Haha. That’s a real thing.’ But yeah, I’m the fastest girl on the entire team. And also yes. I’ve been chipping away at the records. I hold four of the eight. I just all depends on what our coach allows me to swim. Or if he is wanting to win the meet; then he puts me in my fastest events.

But I’ve been flying! Really. Swimming has made a huge difference on my life. I’m so happy I started when I did. Because there has already been offers from several different colleges; with full scholarships. ‘I’m stoked!!’ I thought this was just going to be a hobby; but I’m happy it is going to be a life altering thing. And I’ll be possibly going to college with Charlie. He has been an amazing friend through all of this. I don’t know what would have happened to me if Charlie hadn’t been in my life. I’m so happy I met him officially the day I joined the private team.

“ Sarah,” my friend Joyce called out to me.

“Yeah. What’s up?” I was finishing up showering after the grueling practice.

“You’ve been hanging out with Charlie a lot. Anything happening between you two?”

I felt my face flush, but I quickly pushed it aside. Im not saying I want something to happen. But I wouldn’t be apposed to something happening. “No, nothing is happening” I try to play it off cool. “Why do you ask?”

“Well I thought after last year, and now; that something was happening between you two.”

“What do you mean last year. What happened last year?”

“You don’t know? He’s the one that carried you to the nurses office that day. He carried you clear across campus in just his speedo. He was made fun of for the whole junior year. Everyone called out at him like, “Nice diaper.” He was diaper boy for the last three months. Didn’t you know?”

‘He carried me? He was made fun of. He was the one who helped me? No way! Why hasn’t he said anything.’ I needed answers. I didn’t wait for Joyce; I grabbed my gear and ran out of the locker room. Right smack into Charlie.

“Ouch!” I had run into his shoulder with my nose. “Watch where you are going.” ‘That was a stupid response.’

“Sure. Here I was standing still until something flew into me. But sure I’ll watch where I’m going next time.” Charlie turned walking away.

His sarcastic tone told me I could follow. So I did. We walked in silence until I couldn’t take it anymore. “Why didn’t you tell me about last year? I didn’t know anything.”

“Oh. I. Umm.”

Charlie stumbled around with his words. ‘This was not like Charlie. Charlie didn’t stumble. Charlie was perfect. He was a perfect gentlemen. He was a prefect teammate. And he would be the perfect boyfriend. But how do I bridge that subject.’

“I didn’t really know how to bring it up. I know it was not a good memory for you. And since you never brought it up, I just assumed you didn’t want to talk about it again, or that you didn’t remember it at all. Either way I was okay. I was going to be your friend no matter what. You are pretty cool. Even still when your eyes were glued to Jordan; I still thought you were a pretty cool girl.”

Charlie wasn’t really talking towards me. But I knew he was talking about me.

“You just had a bad taste in guys,” Charlie smirked at that last part.

‘Did my heart just flutter? At Charlie’s smirk? Oh no. It’s happening again. I’m going to go boy crazy again. Must distract myself.’ I just start walking forward. I needed to…I don’t know. But staying there looking at him was not the right answer.

“Hey wait,” Charlie grabbed my hand.

‘He’s holding my hand!?!’

“I’m sorry if I made you angry. I just know that Jordan is not the right guy for you. You deserve better. You deserve…”

‘I deserve…? Charlie just stopped talking. Could he mean? No don’t be ridiculous. Focus elsewhere. But not on the hand that still is holding yours. Oh, great. That’s all I can think of now!’

“Anyways. We should get going,” Charlie says as he drops my hand.

‘No.’ I don’t know what I was doing but I reached out and grasped his hand again. Then realizing what I was doing I dropped it quickly. My face was going to turn a bright red color here in a moment. ‘Walk away, Sarah. Before it’s too late.’ “You are right. Yeah, we should get going. Let’s go,” I quickly dashed off. Not really a run, but fast enough that I knew he wouldn’t follow me. He lives in the opposite direction.

I almost collapsed as I made it to the park besides my home. Running after a grueling workout was not the best plan of mine, but I needed to be anywhere away from…

“Why did you run off?” Charlie came running up too, just minutes after me.

‘Oh no. He would see me scarlet face.’ I threw up my hands to shield my face from his eye-line. My feelings would stay hidden. This was not the smartest idea on my part.

“What are you doing?” Charlie probably thought I looked ridiculous. “Hey. Talk to me!”

His hands were holding my hands. ‘No. He’s stronger than me. He’s going to see.’ My hands were instantly brought down to my sides. His hands still held them in place. He was just looking at me in silence.

I couldn’t take this anymore and I decided to look up into his face. But what I saw, I wish I hadn’t looked. He was smirking at me. ‘Agh! He’s probably laughing at me. And here I am thinking his smirk is so cute. Ahhhh! Kill me now!’ I looked away. I tried to free my hands but to no avail he kept my hands prisoners.

“Sarah. Look at me.”

‘Nope. You might be fine with this, but I’m dying inside.’

“Sarah. Just look at me.”

“No.”

“Sarah” Charlie’s voice was pleading but kind.

I had to look. I had never heard Charlie’s voice like this before. I wanted to see the expression that went along with it. I slowly raised my gaze to look at his face. The smirk was gone. Instead I saw a smile. But then Charlie was stepping towards me. I couldn’t move, especially since my hands were still captured. And then…

A kiss. Only for a quick second. But still my first kiss! ‘He kissed me! So it does mean!!!’ I stepped towards him and gave him a kiss too. I wasn’t the same girl as before. I was more daring. I could kiss… ‘I kissed him!?! Why did I just do that. Oh my gosh that was so embarrassing.’

When I looked into Charlie’s eyes that smirk was back. I desperately tried but failed once again to be released from his hold on my hands; I wanted to run away. But instead I was held in place.

“You kissed me back. You know what this means right?”

I could hear the smirk in Charlie’s voice now. “No. What does it mean?” I looked back into Charlie’s eyes confidently. I was not going to cower. I could be brave.

“Your mine.” And Charlie kissed me once again.

Art, Creativity, My Story

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 42

1 Comment

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 41

CHAPTER 42

Bryan got three days excluded from practice. That didn’t seem like enough of a punishment, but it was enough to have the other upperclassmen behave. Bryan’s right
handed guy, Chad, was actually stepping up in the lane to fill the captain role. I was amazed at what a good swimmer Chad was. With Bryan around he was always staying in
a moderate speed or average effort, but today at practice I was actually struglling to keep up with him in lane two of the A-strings. ‘Right, I forgot, I moved up another lane. I guess you could say I moved up another six spots, now I’m ranked 7th in the A-strings.’

“Okay we are going to mix things up today,” Coach bellowed over the chatter after our last set. Everyone suddenly grew quiet. “I’m only talking to Lanes one, two, and three. Coach, “He yelled down to the assistant coach, “Start those lanes on a set of your choice.” Coach turned back to us, “I want to pair you up with another teammate and you will work with that teammate on one of their weakness. Your mission in this time is to help improve your teammate. We are a team! You should always be trying to help a teammate out; up until, of course, you step on the blocks. Okay now,” Coach glanced down at his clipboard, “Harvey with Jackson, Kyle with Xavior, Manny with David,…” Coach continued to pair people together until he said what I had expected, “Chad with George.”

‘I knew it.‘ I looked at Chad and he didn’t show any emotion. I ducked under the lane line and treaded water just next to where he sat on the wall.

“Okay, now that you have your assigned teammates spread out and discuss your problems,” Coach walked away, back to his chair.

Neither Chad or I moved. I grabbed hold of the wall and hoisted myself up. “So…are you going to start or shall I?”

Chad glanced towards me. Then to Coach, then returned his stare to me. I still saw nothing in his face. But he sighed and shook his head, “Sure. What would you say is
your weeakness? Coach is watching, otherwise I would not be talking to you.”

‘Fair. I didn’t really want to talk to Chad either, but I would show respect.’ “I would say mine would be lung compassity. I’ve had a couple of incidents of passing out after a race.” I saw a flash of surprise on Chad’s face, but it quickly vanished. “What would yours be?”

“I don’t really think I have a weakness. Coach has been telling me to correct my stroke as I sprint, but I’ve yet to figure out what is so wrong,” Chad shrugged.

‘At first I thought he was going to say he didn’t have a weakness because he was perfect. Haha.’ “Okay, climb up on the blocks and sprint a twenty-five,” I stood up
on the deck.

“What? Why?” Chad questioned me, but he still got up and started walking to the blocks.

“You said you don’t know what’s wrong. Let’s see if I can see it. I’ve never been able to correct my swimming when Coach Jones says to figure it out; I always end up
having to ask him what it is,” pulled my cap and goggles off my face. ‘I need to be serious.’

Chad looked at me, but he still climbed the blocks ready for my start.

“Take your mark. Go!”

Chad had a awesome start. He threw his head forward which helped him leaped about one foot farther than I could ever. He was flying. I didn’t know I had such a fast
teammate. His head was positioned correctly, his arms were straight just like how I swim, he had a steady constant kick…what was wrong? But Chad was done with the twenty-five before I could figure it out. I walked over the the panting Chad.

“So?…What do…you…think?” Chad manage to get out.

‘Be honest.’ “I wasn’t able to tell. You swam too quickly for me to figure it out, could you go again?”

Chad pulled himself out of the pool and walked over to where I was standing, “You being smart with me? Are you just going to have me keep swimming as a punishment
for what Bryan did? Huh!?!”

“No. That was not my intention. I just couldn’t see what was wrong in that short amount of time. If you could just swim again I should be able to catch it,” I understood
why he might think that way, but I actually wanted to help him out.

“Whatever,” Chad started to walk away, but stopped dead in his tracks

“So George, did you discover his weakness?” Coach Jones had snuck up behind me. “I saw it once again in that twenty-five.”

“See, I knew you weren’t watching. Just tell me Coach,” Chad was fuming.

“No. I’m sure with one more twenty-five George should be able to discover what you are doing wrong. Tell me George, what did you see?”

“Chad was able to do the head throwing in his start that I’ve been struggling to do these last two years. His arms were straight and look strong as he pulled himself through the water. He had a strong steady kick throughout. But I couldn’t find anything wrong?” It was bugging me that I missed something. ‘What was it?’

Chad had turned towards me. I could see surprise but also, maybe slight approval.

“Those are all good to see, but those are not the culprit. I will give a small hint. It is not in his techniques,” Coach started to walk away. He called over his shoulder, “It’s just a habit.”

‘A habit? Hmmm…’ I looked at Chad. The only way to figure this out would be for him to back up on the blocks.”Come on Chad. Get back up on the blocks,” I started to walk back to the other end. Much to my surprise, Chad passed by me and once again took his stance on the block. “Last one, Chad. Take your marks. Go!” Again he was off.

Creativity, My Story

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 41

2 Comments

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 40

CHAPTER 41

I fell to my bed. My last class just finished and I was trying to catch some sleep before afternoon practice. I need to excel in something today, and swimming is my
best option. I didn’t know that college was going to be this hard. Now I understand why the orientation speaker said that grades would fluctuate, because mine have.
It’s only been 9 days of school and I already feel behind in my academic classes. Plus with the whole stupidity of the upperclassmen. ‘Man. Why can’t they just leave me alone.’ I had my eyes closed only for maybe five minutes when there was a sudden knock, and the door opened. I sat up expecting Jeremy or Timothy, only to have Coach Jones standing in my doorway. I bolted up into a standing position. “Coach Jones?”

“No need to be nervous. Sit back down,” Coach left the door propped open and sat down in Jeremy’s desk chair. “Can we talk a minute?”

“Sure,” I sat on the edge of my bed and gave Coach my full attention. “What’s up Coach?”

“Well…I heard about what happened today in the courtyard, but first I want to ask how its been going? Are you managing?”

‘I knew Coach would hear about what happened today, but it seemed like he wasn’t mad about it.’ “I’m trying to manage. College is more difficult than I had expected.
Mostly the morning practices with homework. Physics homework has always been easy to me, but I’ve been struggling to finish. But I should be able to get a handle on things after a few more days.” ‘I didn’t know if that last part was true or not, but I knew it had to be. If I couldn’t figure things out then something would have to give; and swimming was not an option.’

Coach Jones didn’t speak at first, “Hmmm, I was hoping you would tell me you were fine, because I had hope to move you to a new room right after the mock meet in three
days. But Now that I’m hearing this…”

“No, Coach,” I interrupted him. “If you want me to move, I’ll move. Everything is going to work itself out. I won’t let anything hinder my swimming.”

Coach held up a hand, “Don’t worry about that George. I know swimming is still your top priority; I was just more concerned with your lack of sleep. You are trying to figure this out, and if I move you to a new room you would have a new added stress of fitting in with your roommates.” Coach looked around the room. “I will say though. For you having a tough time in college your area is quite in order. No one would know you are having a tough time. His eyes landed on the bed next to mine, “And this is?”

I laughed, “That’s Jeremy’s, of course.” It was a tangled up mess.

Coach Jones shook his head and chuckled. The smile on his face disappeared and he again turned his attention back to mine. “About what happened today, I was surprised at your role in it.”

‘I was surprised as well; what did he mean my role?’

My face must have revealed my thoughts, because Coach Jones held up a hand, “No need to answer. I’m not accusing you of starting things or anything. I was just surprised and your reaction. That you actually retaliated.”

“I shoved him away. I didn’t think that was such a bad response.”

“No. After seeing the footage from a security camera, I was proud you didn’t swing at Bryan. But you should have not done anything. I don’t know if you know this, but
you have a reputation at this school. From your time swimming for me the last two years you are seen as a leader. Racing Kevin the first day of practice, hardworking
and determined. What happened at the cafrateria with Bryan, Brave and strong. But then now today, quick but short tempered.”

I tried to interrupt, but Coach Jones stopped me.

“George,” Coach Jones grabbed the back of his neck,”I know that Bryan has become a problem. There will be repercussions for his actions today, but it is his last year, thankfully.” Coach looked me in the eye, “I hope you can be the change for this school; at least a change for the swimming team. If you can survive this school year without
any incidents I would really wish for you to be the captain on this team next year. You have the skills in the pool to be the captain, but you must use this year to gain the respect from your teammates. All of them. Bryan, may be a lost cause but his buddies were not always followers. The quality of athlete has diminished these last few years. Can I count on you to be a leader of the team?”

‘Wow. I didn’t realize that I was truly leadership material. I know I have been captain before, but I thought I would be on the lower list of candidates for about two
years.’ Looking up into Coach Jones questioning face I knew I needed to step up. That I needed to be the athlete that Coach needed. “Yes Coach. You can count on me
to fill that role.”

“With that said, maybe I should leave you to it; get some rest before practice tonight,” Coach Jones got up from the chair and walked back to the door.

“Coach,” I stood by the edge of my bed, “I am sorry for not being able to keep my composure this afternoon. I will work on it.”

“I know you will. You will be one of the greats. In and out of the pool,” with that Coach exited the room and closed the door behind himself.

‘I really need to work hard this year to be the person and athlete that Coach needs.’ I relaxed back onto my sheets. I’ll rest for maybe thirty minutes and then I’ll get some homework done now; maybe that will make college easier.

…

Adventures, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Favorite Animals

2 Comments

What are your favorite animals?

#1 Easy. Dog. But for me is a very specific dog. My dog that sadly has passed away, Sammy.

Part 1

She was the best dog ever. And she is the dog I compare to.

I got her when I was thirteen from the pound. A funny-ish memory with my dad; that is a scarce thing. But my dad is the one who took me to the pound that day to pick out a dog. I had, had my eye on one; a golden retriever puppy. But sadly the puppy had to stay at the pound another 2 weeks before it could come home with me; that must have been too long because I moved on.

My dad had his own ideas about a dog he wanted a male German shepherd mix. A dog my mom specifically said not to get. That was my dad though. I of course, was not going to choose a dog against my mom, but I continued to walk through the pound in search of my dog. I knew I would know when I saw it.

I walked past each stall; getting more discouraged as I went. until I came up to one stall. The dog was black. A little fluffy. Mangy looking. The sign said lab chow mutt. I don’t know what it was, but I liked this dog. She was just sitting in the corner sleeping away. My dad tried to pull me away, but I stood rooted there. He continued on, and I still stood there looking at the dog.

I squatted down to be on her level when she woke up and almost fell over. The commotion must have woke her up, because suddenly there was a little dog head perked up looking at me. I saw sadness in her face. I was about to walk on, because I thought she was too skittish; but as if she knew, she stood up and slowly walked over to the fence and licked my fingers. It startled me. I had forgot I had my hand there. But she continued to lick my fingers.

I trusted her instantly. I shoved my fingers through the hole in the fence and began to scratch her ear. She almost my instantly collapsed into the fence and soaked up scratches. She pressed her side to the fence and I continued the petting session. I probably squatted there, petting her for almost 15min. I knew. This was my dog. My dad was still off somewhere looking At probably only German shepherds. But I continued to be squatted there scratching my dog. My dog Sammy. I previously had a different name picked out, but I still to this day have no idea what it was. But when I was petting her, I just said, “Good girl, Sammy.” And that was that. This was my dog Sammy.

Finally he came back. “Pop, I want this one.”

My dad looked at the dog , “I don’t think so, I found a really cute dog down the hallway. It’s ready to go home today and everything. Let’s go take a look,” he started to walk away.

I didn’t move; instead I struggled to stand up and pointed at Sammy, “No, I want this one.”

“No. This one looks mangy; probably she will attack you or run away the moment she comes to our home. Instead there is a good looking German shepherd puppy down the hallway. I’m sure you will like it,” he tried to get me to come with him.

“Nope. I’m good. I want this one.” I can be quite stubborn. Haha!

“But, I think you should keep your options open. This one might not be available today. Let’s continue to look. I’m not committed to any dog just yet. Not until you look at the other one.”

I knew that he was not going to be open to my dog until I looked at his…but I was not moving. Thankfully a worker came up to us and asked the question I was hoping for.

“Did you find a dog you liked?”

“No, we are….” My dad tried.

“Yes. This one.” And I pointed at Sammy.

The worker looked at me, then at Sammy, then at my dad, “Are you sure?”

“Yes. I’m positive. I want this dog for my birthday.” Yeah I forgot that part. I was getting a dog for my birthday. My parents agreed I was old enough for a dog. So my dad brought me to find a dog. And I found her! “Can we start the process?”

“Oh. It’s for your birthday. Then of course you should get the dog you picked. Right, dad? If your daughter choose this one, and is adamant, you should trust her choice, right?”

Thank you worker. But oh! my dad is going to be pissed on the drive home. At the time I was terrified for the drive home, but not scared enough to give up on Sammy. My dad just nodded, but I knew he was not happy.

The worker grabbed the small sign and walked us to the office. I looked back and Sammy must have felt abandoned and walked slowly back to to her corner. ‘I’m coming back for you.’

We got to the office and the person in charge handed me a slip to fill out. The normal stuff, but I also got to put Sammy’s name on the line for name!! It was an exciting moment. But then came the time for paying. Thankfully my mom had planned ahead and gave me a $20 bill, because my mom knew that if my dad didn’t get his way he was not going to pay.

The worker said, “Okay, that will be $15. Who will be paying?”

As I expected my dad didn’t react; so I pulled out the $20 bill and said, “Of course me. It’s my dog after all.” It was done. She was mine. I fought for her!! They also let me sign on the dotted line since I payed.

Sammy would be ready in two days. They had to give her, her shots and spay her. But she was mine. It was done.

I thanked the workers and walked out of the office with my receipt. I was so proud, that I forgot all about my dad. I turned and he had not followed me out of the office.

I sung open the door and my dad just said, “maybe have that German shepherd puppy ready to go in two days too and maybe she will change her mind.”

I rolled me eyes. The workers looked uncomfortable. I yelled in the door. “No need. Sammy is all I want. Come on Pop, let’s go home and prepare the yard for Sammy.”

That ended the topic. Sammy was my dog. I would fight for her!!

.-.-.-.-.

I know this post was meant for multiple animals, but Sammy is…well now, was my favorite. I think I’ll continue the story tomorrow. The story of Sammy is a fun one.

But now you got a glimpse into what my dad was like. I think this result only happened because I was his favorite child. Which sickens me. The only reason for that, was because he had control over my swimming. Also (not to brag) but I won races a lot. I gave him so much pride. He gave me too much pressure, but he didn’t care. Which is why I think he allowed my behavior that day. Because he needed me to continue to fuel his vain side in the future.

But I’m happy for that. For once in my life I was happy I was his favorite; because I did get the best dog that day!! My family would agree.

(Also I’m not against German Shepherds. I just for one didn’t want a male dog. I wanted a female. And German shepherds have lots of energy. I wanted a more mellow dog. I wanted a dog that would be content in our small backyard. Nothing against German shepherds.)

Part 2 to follow.

Sammy ❤️
The Best Dog Ever!
Art, Creativity, Daily Prompts, Reflections

Hmmmm…?

1 Comment

Is there an age or year of your life you would re-live?

I think I would choose age 15-17. When I was a competitive swimmer.

I stayed on my swim team because I didn’t want to lose my friends, start from scratch, and I didn’t want to let my coach down.

But if I had switched teams I would have probably gone farther in the sport. Not gotten hurt. And probably would have made it to the Olympics.

But instead I choose my friends. I thought they would be my friends always. But the older friends tolerated me because I was fast. The younger friends respected me because I was fair. But in the end I only have one good friend from my 17 years of swimming; living in a different state, and I only text her. It’s been almost 5 years now since I last saw her.

Another reason for not leaving, was I didn’t want to have to figure out my place on a new team. I knew there were faster swimmers than me. Surprisingly enough, more dedicated swimmers than me. But on my old swim team I was respected.

You can’t really leave one team, try out another, and then return. It would have not gone well.

The biggest reason of all: I didn’t want to disappoint my coach. My coach was my coach for 8 years, I think. She was the one that kickstarted my desire to become great. I always did anything she said. She was the one that was going to take me to the next level.

But like most things, many different events happened that began to unravel my hoped future.

She always wanted me to be the best, but I’ve come to realize it that she just expected the best without her 100% effort to help me there. She had a favorite on the team; and to her, that swimmer could do no wrong.

Another event was that when I was 16, I had finished 3 exhausting swim meets in a row. I had been invited to an invitation only swim meet, that I had to go to as well. But into the first day of the meet I had an excruciating pain in my stomach that I couldn’t even sleep through the night. My mom came to get me and we went to the hospital. Turned out I had a cyst the size of a large grapefruit in my lower abdomen. The doctors were amazed that I had continued through the pain, for this long, while being an athlete. I had to have surgery. So it was quite serious. The doctors said that if the cyst had ruptured I would have died.

But what do you think my Coach’s response to all this was… disappointment. She made me feels so awful for leaving that swim meet. She made me feel like I embarrassed her; and that I should have just sucked it up, and finished the meet.

After that day my Coach gave up on me. The swimmer that could do no wrong was now more than ever her favorite. And I continued to try and prove myself to my coach. I did more in my 16-17 years than I had already done for her from the age of 10 to this point.

And you might be wondering how it ended…

Without any help from my coach. I bettered myself all the way up to the nationals level. That’s one step lower than the Olympics trials. Two steps away from the Olympics. I thought, I would have at least one more year of her help. But instead she took her favorite to the Olympic trials. The swimmer chocked and didn’t perform well, and then my coach retired.

She gave up. She gave up on me. If she had given me some direction the year before she retired she might have taken two swimmers to the Olympic trials. I think I lost my spark after that.

She then sold the team to my teammate. He then made a rule that after the age of 18, if you are not swimming in college you couldn’t continue to swim on the team. So I lost my coach. I lost my drive. And I lost my team. All after I turned 18.

I swam at my community college. I did amazing. But it wasn’t the same. My spark was gone. I broke almost all the records. But then I got hurt. I think it was an old injury from when I tried to earn my coach’s respect back.

Now as I look back over those years I can see that I should have left. I wasted 8 years trying to swim for someone who never seemed to care. But I wasted the best years especially; where if I had just switched I probably would have made it. I know I would have!

But with all things you must go on. I coached. Which I loved!! I will definitely do it in the future if I get the chance. Without the public speaking part. I’m terrified and terrible at that part. Another, I still like to do hard work. Any projects we have on the property I’m rearing to help complete them. My body feels sore and tired afterwards. Most importantly, I found someone who cares for me, who wants me to do my best, but will also accept me as I am.

So yes, I want to change those years. Because I wish I could give my 17 year old self a chance to succeed on the level she desired. But like all things. You learn. You move past it. And you then live your new life.

Digital Art By: emily2jane
11-04-2023
“Stilled Moments”