Rockin' the Reindeer Run

"Are you proud of me, mommy?" four-year-old Danny asked just after he'd run the 100-yard dash event in our city's first annual Reindeer Run on Saturday. "I am very proud of you," I told the boy who beamed up me with pure delight at having won a red ribbon for his participation in an event intended to help fight childhood obesity. Danny also attempted to run the mile event -- like his big brother did -- and while he couldn't run the entire course, he did cross the finish line and earned himself a medal. He's already got it stashed in his backpack, ready for Pre-K Show & Tell on Thursday.

Brother Joey also rocked the Reindeer Run. Like the last time we ran in a race together, the kid passed me right by and never looked back. Impressive for a six-year-old who feels the rush of the crowd and simply must power forward. He's like a rocket, that boy. He makes me proud too.

I love seeing my kids excel physically. I love watching them exert themselves -- after running, they kicked soccer balls, threw footballs, shot baskets, and collected a few blue ribbons -- and I love the fact that the fitness lessons they learn now might just carry them through life.

The signs of a race well-done are displayed all over our house, race numbers hanging on the fridge, medals hanging next to the boys' Christmas stockings, ribbons balancing on our sparkly tree, and race shirts waiting to be laundered so they can be worn again -- and again and again, until next year when they run like little reindeers for a second time and collect a brand new shirt. I can't wait.