What a Bummer

Today should have been a day of nothing but smiles. My precious boy was given a very special accolade. It doesn't happen often in this town of good ole boys, and who you know, and are you popular, and were you born and raised here. My teenager is a water polo player, or "baller" according to his teen logic. He was selected by the local newspaper to be athlete of the week. His quotes and picture graced the local front page of the Sports' Section. Needless to say, mom & dad were very proud. His coach, nor any of his team members said congratulations or good job. You see, we are not popular, we are not part of the group, we are not Lodi. I know all of this because the polo team had a carb dinner for their last game tomorrow. It was sad. The Mr. & I came to the house and sure enough, we were on the outside. We helped clean up, helped select the pictures for the end of season banquet, and tried to be pleasant. I know I'm whining again, and the last shall be first, and it really doesn't matter, but you know it's one of those things I want for my kids. I want them to be appreciated for their talents, their individual and unique gifts, and to quote some favorite young people, "mean people suck!" I am a mom who knows the faults of my kids and I unfortunately I'm brutally honest with them and others. But you know when they deserve to be given an "Great Job!" They should be given a huge hug. I am so grateful for the big bro who called little bro and congratulated him. You see, family has to stick up for family. This town makes me nuts some times. Grapes or no Grapes, some of them still have little bitty minds and hearts.