The Joy of Grace

Totally Hooked Sep 08

I never would have thought that I could love football the way I love football. Specifically, Tennessee football.  

Up until 4 years ago, the only term I truly understood in football was touchdown .  And, even in that limited understanding, I had no idea how many actual points the team received when they got a touchdown.  It was not that I never watched football or even went to football games. I actually went to every one of my high school's (GO ECS EAGLES!) varsity football games for 3 consecutive years (Oh, yes, I was a cheerleader and totally proud of it.)  The problem was, we always had the football players standing in front of us.  I could never see a thing. No worries~even if I could have seen the field, I probably could not have paid attention long enough to learn what was going on.  Football just did not interest me.  My college years were no better for me.  I went to a small, private college and the mighty Choctaws just did not compel me to want more football.   

Then, I married into the Boeving family and into the tradition to all get together on Saturdays and watch the Tennessee football games.  My initial thought on this tradition: "What in the world?!"  My sweet husband wanted me to love football the way he loved football.  So, he began to explain to me things like defense, offense, the line, field goals, off sides, blitz, etc. etc.  After a few games of that 2003-2004 season, I was hooked.  

And, I am still totally hooked.    Even better, last year I discovered the absolute greatness of  the NFL games.  Tenneessee is still near and dear to my heart, but let's face it-we haven't had the best seasons over the past 4 years (By the way, I am predicting a fabulous season this year!).  So, it's just so wonderful to watch Peyton Manning tear it up the day after I've watched UT  make some devastating mistakes.  

Last Saturday marked the beginning of the season.  We got to dress Savannah up in orange and white (and, thanks to our friends Amanda and Bear, we have another fun UT outfit to wear for the next game) and head over to the Boevings for a full night of football.  She didn't make it past the first 5 minutes of the game (thank goodness for Pack n Plays), but it was still great fun to have her join in our family football tradition.  She even knew to cry when California rushed 44 yards after a fumble by Ainge to score a touchdown in the first 2 minutes of the game.

To my dad and Kacie Wright Miller: if you read this entry, my bell still rings for State.