Sarah Nigbor

This weekend was a busy one for our family and a great reminder to cherish each and every moment.

My husband is the defensive coordinator for the Baldwin-Woodville Blackhawks football team, and my two stepsons play on the team. This past Saturday they traveled to Mount Horeb/Barneveld to take on the Vikings in the first round of the Division III playoffs. They lost badly and seemed to have no spark. Maybe it’s because it was an injury-ridden season for the team, which continued that day. I’m not sure. My two boys were so disappointed; it’s hard to see our children go through things that make them sad, but I keep reminding myself that learning to face adversity and persevere means growth and character. So I was proud when they pulled themselves out of the dumps and proclaimed that next year, they’ll be back with a vengeance.

My husband, who is humble and prefers to be behind the scenes, was named the Middle Border Asst. Coach of the Year. I might be embarrassing him by writing about it, but I am so proud of him. He has gone through so many health challenges this past year, so to be recognized for his perseverance and work ethic is thrilling. I have much respect for the people who choose to coach our children. I see how hard Shane works and the long hours he puts in. While winning is nice, for him it’s more about developing his players into respectful, kind, hard-working young men. Thank you to all the people who step up to fill these roles in our communities. Your hard work does not go unnoticed.

We also celebrated the affirmation of my daughter’s baptism at church on Sunday. It seems like yesterday I was holding her at the baptismal font while the pastor lightly poured water on her little head. Where the last 14 years has gone, I don’t know. She has truly enjoyed attending confirmation these past two-and-a-half years and growing her faith.

When I was growing up, my grandma was insistent that I attend church and confirmation. When I was little, church was boring and I entertained myself by counting letters of the alphabet in the bulletin. But little did I know that a seed had been planted that continues growing to this day. I thought of my grandma and how proud she would have been to see Carolina confirmed. I felt like she was there with us and smiling.

Sometimes I get so lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, that I forget to stop and enjoy even the littlest of moments. Because before I know it, they will be gone in a flash. So I encourage everyone, stop just looking forward to the next event, the next vacation, the next big thing. While it’s nice to look forward to things, make sure you live in the moment now as well. Because those ordinary, daily moments and happenings are just as precious and comprise the fabric of our lives.