Walk Back to Third Base

People often ask why I don't challenge an umpire - even when we all 'clearly' saw what happened.

I tell parents all the time that arguing with an umpire - whether it comes from a coach or the stands - changes the momentum. No matter where the frustration is coming from, it isn't helpful. It shifts the energy of the girls, changes the dynamic of the game, and disrupts what was working. We're all human, doing the best we can.

We each see the play from our own perspective. The umpire is there to make the call. Once it's made, we accept it and move on - because much like life, it is rarely one single play that changes the outcome of a game.

I might ask a question or two. Once the call is reinforced, I walk back to third base and let the game move forward. The same applies here.

Just like a play on the field, I took my comprehensive exam. A call was made. I asked a question or two. I stepped back up for the second exam - and the call was reinforced. And I failed my comprehensive exam, for the second time.

Most doctoral programs dismiss a student after failing the comprehensive exam twice. My school offers the opportunity to appeal and attempt a third time. I've chosen instead to respect the call and let my game move forward.

This is not quitting. I would never quit in front of my children or the girls I coach. Hard things have always been part of my story - they don't scare me. But this has been one of the hardest experiences of my life, because it forced me to question something I've always trusted - the very work I do. I also know, I'm really good at it - and I know how meaningful that work is. And at some point, wisdom looks like stopping the argument in my head and listening to my heart.

Getting my doctorate has always been a dream of mine - but more importantly, it was my dad's. It was his dream to earn his PhD. And we're going to let that dream be his.

This is a refocus of my heart. There are so many incredible things in my world right now.

It's time to walk back to third base -
because it's going to be a game.

To all who have shown up for me... over and over, and over again. Please know, it never goes unnoticed. I am who I am because of you and I'm forever grateful.

And tonight - my family celebrates the engagement of an incredible couple.

Still the luckiest girl in the world.

And did I mention...
it's going to be one hell of a game!

Thank you for all of it ❤