Little Man will be a fifth grader this year.  He's played soccer and basketball, but until now hasn't had an interest in playing football. 

O.k.  To be honest with you and myself, he's asked and I've gently brushed it aside.  This year he really wants to play.  I'm worried about it.  He's only 85 pounds.  I don't want him hurt.  These little guys practice in full equipment in August.  They get so hot and sweaty.  Do they get sick from the heat? 

Football is so aggressive.  Is that the kind of sport I want him to play? I talked to his basketball coach this year about it.  He also coaches little league football and Coach assured me it was safe.  It's not that rough at his age and the equipment does protect them. 

Little Man's grandpa on his dad's side is very close to LM and he thought it would be o.k. for him to play. 

I signed him up.  He's on the Vikings and we pick up his equipment next Saturday.  I'm still worried about him.  The biggest challenge I face  parenting my son alone is finding that balance between my natural instinct to protect him and his natural urge to play sports like football. 

I talk to the men in our lives that I trust and try to get a "fathers" perspective.  I want to keep him safe.  I want him to have all the advantages he would have with a full time father in the home.  I'll just cover my eyes when he gets his and keep reminding myself that I'm doing the best job I can being mom and dad.