Challenge Cup: Section v Zebre

Allez Section!

At five o'clock last night, with our tv on the blink, I made a snap decision to head to the rugby. I've not been for months. The games here usually kick off at 6.30pm and it's just been too cold to drag the wee man along. Plus there has also been the lure of Strictly. Anyway, it was a balmy 8 degrees last night and, crucially, dry, so I got William wrapped up and we shot up to the stadium half an hour before kick off.

It was a great night. If I had to tally up the time spent actually watching the rugby, then I'd probably be lucky to notch up 5mins but it was great hanging out with the rugby girls and watching William enjoy the atmosphere. He was mesmerised: pointing and shouting "rugby!", clapping when others were clapping and recognising Roxy and shouting on him from the stands. We went out for chips at halftime and he was delighted to meet the mascot. There were a few tense seconds as they stood looking at each other and I thought that William might scarper but he seemed to weigh up the situation, then just walked up to this huge bear, and gave him a big cuddle. Much to the "awwwwwwwwwws" of the supporters standing around the concourse.

I still take him to the games in our Ergo carrier. I just can't see any reason against it. He's always shattered when we're leaving and he's getting too heavy to pick up and carry around so sticking him on my back, in the Ergo just makes sense. He so used to being in it that it is definitely his safe place when he's tired and there are lots of people around. Last night, as I stood chatting to some of the Section wives and players after the match, he just snuggled in and didn't wrestle to get down. People always comment about how relaxed and happy he looks in it. Sometimes they don't even realise that he's there! Interestingly, this doesn't really seem to be the done thing here in France though, as we always attract a lot of attention and pointing when people realise I have a toddler cuddling into me and we wander through the crowds on the way home.

Chips and Bears at half time

Chips and Rugby

LM.