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Bragging on My Son and A Dance Party, too! Can it Get any Better?

We have been working with my eight-year old son on something called Marathon Kids in an effort to get more exercise for him (and for us, too). The goal of Marathon Kids is to run increments of a marathon over several months and work on endurance and making running a part of your everyday schedule. By the end of the program he will have run 26.2 miles, and there is a large ceremony held at a stadium in Austin to recognize the kids who finish. One of my friends who works there says that the kids feel like rock stars with all of the "fans" cheering for them. I think they also get a medal for completing it.

So far, he has completed 9 miles, and tonight he will run another 1/2 mile, as he has now decided to shoot for a mile a day. When we started, he was having trouble with the 1/4 mile, but now he runs 1/4 mile, then sprints much of the way back! He has always been a big and tall kid, and we didn't want his weight to become an issue, so we wanted to give him some additional incentive to exercise. He got really excited about the marathon idea and he will also get a big prize from me at the end of the program.

Yesterday was the first day that he completed a full mile (1/2 in the morning, 1/2 in the evening). My wife said that she has noticed a marked increase in his speed, which is awesome. He also had his martial arts lesson during the day, so that was a great day overall for him. He actually has a "junior black belt" in Tukong Moosul, which I believe is the 12th belt that he has obtained so far. Martial arts has been great for his balance, coordination, discipline, etc. Good stuff!

So, last night, after he finished his second run, he said, "We need to celebrate! How about a dance party?" Just in case you were thinking this is an odd request or that the Crouches live in an Elvis musical movie ("Hey gang, I just finished my taxes! Time for a song!"), the dance party is something I started in order to have some fun with the kids at times like this. Basically, my wife bought me an iPod deck from Bose for Christmas last year that we keep in the kitchen now, and it is perfect for just such an occasion.

A dance party at the Crouch house is an opportunity for all of us to dance around and just be silly for awhile. The soundtrack changes each time, but here are some of the tunes from our party:

"September" by Earth, Wind and Fire - always part of the playlist

"Night Fever" by the Bee Gees - another one that almost always gets played, so that we can do the trademark John Travolta moves from the movie (this is one of the worst song videos ever, by the way)

"Dance Tonight" by Paul McCartney - This song seems to cut across all generations, as my mom loves this song, as does our toddler. So do I. Maybe that's why McCartney is an uber-billionaire now.

"Makes Me Wonder" from Maroon 5. Honestly, Maroon 5 is starting to work their way into our parties more and more often lately. Even our 20-month old girl dances to them. Last night, we all tried to dance like her, which was tons of fun. She can move!

Thanks for reading about my family time!

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If you're looking for a home in the Austin area, you can visit my primary Austin real estate website at www.austintexashomes.com. Thanks!

Posted by Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) on 11/29/2007 05:51 PM

Comments (54)

dance party, martial arts, marathon kids

Originally posted at: Cool Austin Texas Real Estate Blog : Bragging on My Son and A Dance Party, too! Can it Get any Better?

54 Comments on Bragging on My Son and A Dance Party, too! Can it Get any Better?

NOV

2007

Jason, Your son is learning discipline and consistency...good things. He is doing very well.

That's a brilliant program. When you make it fun Kids wanna do it and don't even realize they are exercising and doing something "healthy". God knows healthy to a child means<ick>

Jason-You and your wife are such wonderful parents. Your example is the reason why so many of us keep coming back for more. Those moments and memories you are creating with your children will be times they will remember forever. I love the marathon idea. What a great motivator for your son. Congratulations to him. You rock little Crouch! (oops forgive the little. If he's anything like my boys when they were that age it was, "I'm not little, I'm big").

You know this is such a great idea I would love to implement this into our family time. Thank you my friend.

That is great and that Marathon Kids is an awesome idea. I hope that they are utilizing that in other areas of the country as well.

Jason.. Running is a great activity. Wish I had started at a younger age but I consistently enjoy my 5 mile run three or four times a week now and have done a few half marathons. Sprinting could be why your son wears out quickly. I'd suggest pacing a little slower to build up distance, if you're going to a track 4 times around is a mile. Try a slow jog for 1 lap, a brisk walk for the second lap, jog a lap and whatever feels good for the final round to complete the mile. See how long it takes and he can gauge his progress as his stamina improves.

KAY - Yes, those are important things indeed. We are very happy to have found an activity and a goal to keep him focused and excited.

DEZ - I agree - "healthy" is not typically a positive word for kids. We are thankful to have found this program, and the dance parties don't hurt either!

JULIE - I would highly recommend the dance parties. Our kids LOVE them! Little Big Crouch does rock! Thanks, as always, for your highly complimentary and kind comments.

MARC - Yes, there are a number of cities using this program right now, and I'm sure that they are looking to continue its expansion.

DAN - I want to thank you for your advice on running, since I know that you are a big-time runner yourself. With regard to the sprinting, we typically jog the first 1/4 mile, then he WANTS to sprint the second part, which is a huge improvement. I am hoping that this turns into something that he wants to continue doing. Right now, he seems to have a great attitude, which certainly helps with his stamina. Thanks again!

Jason,

Congratulations to your son on achieving his goal. The Marathon Kids is a great idea because it teaches kids to be active and to learn discipline. Kudos to you & your family!! Time for another Dance Party!!

Nope it sure doesn't get any better than that. Enjoy. My kids laugh when I dance. LOL

I challenge your son to a foot race.

Jason - my kids are black belts, ran cross country, and I used to be able to get them occasionally to dance with mommy. Not any more - it's very tough.

Faina: I challenge your kids to point sparring matches, cross country races and dance offs.

I'm feeling it tonight. Whose kids are next?

Jason, whatever it takes to get them off of the couch and outside works for me. What ever happened to kids just playing outside like I did as a kid (OMG, that makes me sound soooooo old!)

Oh the pictures running around in my head! Sounds like a fun family you have there. Dance with them as much as you can! How about The Romantics, "What I Like About You" --one of my favorite dance songs from my go-out-dancing days.

Hi Jason,

What a great post! Are you running also? I used to run around a track with my daughter and out of the blue she would cut in front of me. Anyway, it is great to hear of families "playing together."

Jason, The marathon is great for your son and your whole family! Have fun at the dance party!

Paul, take mine...please!

Lisa, if they fall within the age parameters (please no kids over the age of 14) I challenge your children to whatever it is that they do. I am bigger, stronger and faster. I have been successfully defeating children in all manner of physical endeavors since 2003. Sure your kid probably lights up the wrestling competition in 5th grade gym class, but what's he gonna do when I come calling?

Leslie, I challenge you and your daughter to a race.

Paul, my 12 year old son's only ambition in life is to be a professional wrestler...I'm sending him (COD of course) to Scottsdale to practice his "Tombstone" move on you. Do not ask for clarification - tremble in fear of all 72 pounds of him.

12 years old, Lisa? It's on! I can easily withstand 72 pounds of Tombstoning. I just don't want anyone throwing their kid with hyperthyroid issues and 250 lbs at me. No ringers!

Paul...oops...did I leave out the part where I packed his big brother (who used to be a bouncer and is nicknamed Hungry) in there with him? Silly me...I sent them FedEx early arrival and they both like breakfast :)

Jason, your post has been officially hijacked (in case you didn't notice) ;-p

Jason, while Paul is boarding his windows and doors against the Tombstone, did I tell you that I think it's great that your son is participating. Is this program through his school? Is it a national thing or just there in Austin?

Jason, good for you, My kids and I missed the whole sit in front of tv and video games lifestyle too, They are still atheletic and involved with life. You will be glad you spent this time encouraging kids this way. Best wishes

What great ideas-both the marathon and the dance party. But if we had a dance party, my husband would end up laying on the couch with a drink, listening the Jimmy Buffet. We can't win on that one =/

Jason,

Can I be your kid?

You don't want to be his kid, Fran, because I would then have to challenge you to a foot race.

You are welcome!

I was going to mention to you that Santa is bringing my little girl (4) Dance, Dance, Revolution. You know that's not just going to be for her. It's funny, because I'm quite excited to get on there and make a fool out of myself. :) Have you tried that with your kids?

NOV

2007

Jason- Ah! the beauty of homeschooling! Martial Arts is by far the best sport for all children. The self esteem it develops is for sure and I could take any kid on Ritilin and have him off of it with no more ADD within 6 months of training in my Tae Kwon Do school. Katerina

HAROLD - I just went and commented on your post about the cemetery. Interesting stuff! Thanks for stopping by - our dance parties are incredibly fun! Have a great weekend.

MISSY - I am sure that my kids will laugh at me when I dance someday, too. In fact, I kind of try to make them laugh now. Thanks for your comments!

SLAYBAUGH - You aren't man enough to take my kid in a foot race. Poser.

FAINA - I know that those days are coming - thanks for your perspective. I hope you have a terrific Friday!

PAUL - Faina's kids will likely take you to task once my eight-year old beats you soundly in a foot race.

LISA - I must agree with you. It seems like there are too many distractions now. I am super-excited to see my son's enthusiastic approach to this program. Tomorrow morning he will have finished 10 miles.

ELAINE - Your pictures may be accurate ones, but keep in mind that I actually met my wife on the dance floor of an Austin club: Songs from the Night I Met My Wife - A Tribute. Good song choice for our next dance party - thanks!

LESLIE - Lately, my wife has been running with him, but I have gone with him a number of times, too. Thanks for stopping by!

ROBERTA - The dance parties are always a great time, and the Marathon Kids thing has been a godsend for us.

PAUL - You are a smack talker supreme. Nicely done. Lisa is probably shaking in her boots.

LISA - I must admit that I would be interested in seeing the Tombstone move myself.

PAUL - You might consider my kid to be a ringer. He is a full head taller than every kid his age in the immediate area, or so it seems. At eight years old, he is almost five feet tall. Keep in mind that when he was born (not making this up), the doctor said, "Congratulations! You have just given birth to a linebacker!" I am 6'4" and around 230, but he is FAR larger than I was at his age. I have a feeling that he will top out at around 6'6" or better and with the sheer amount of muscle mass that he has, I would think he will end up somewhere in the 265-280 range. Again, I am not joking.

LISA - I think my son could be quite a bit like your bouncer son someday, although I don't know what kind of FedEx container could handle him. And don't sweat it - I like the hijacking of my posts as long as it's funny. The Marathon Kids thing is something we found through a friend of my mom. My kids are homeschooled, actually. They have the program in other cities, but I don't know offhand how many other places. It has been awesome for us.

MIKE - Thanks so much for your encouraging words. I hope we are headed in the right direction - it sure feels that way now. I appreciate you stopping by!

LISA - Thanks! Yeah, the dance party you described sounds very laid back to me. It might not be as beneficial, huh?

FRAN - As long as I don't have to pay for college, you are welcome to come stay with us. The more the merrier!

JULIE - I have tried that one with my kids, and it is a lot of fun. Thanks for stopping back by!

KATERINA - I agree. It has been a wonder for my son's self-esteem. We had some issues that caused us to seek occupational therapy (never medication, which I'm sure you will appreciate) for awhile with my son, but he seems to be past those things now. It was a sensory integrative issue. We really need to talk sometime!

Jason.... okay, they feel like rock stars, but do they party like one.... lol <just kidding> I was tired from just reading all of the running that he has down. Seriously..... this is great. I know my nieces and nephews are getting into fitness at school also... 2 of them are 8 yrs old. This is even something that I should even get involved in since I hit the big 40 this yr.... I don't think golf and beer curls are great forms of exercising. Even is blogging.... in any case, I am sure that he will be happy when he receives the medal when completing this... and your gift. ;o)

JEFF - Thanks for reading and commenting, as always. Yeah, the beer curls probably won't win you any fitness points. Golf could if you walk sometimes at least. I always hit the ball into the craziest places, so I get ample exercise looking for it. Talk to you soon -

Jason: I can see how proud you are of your children. IF I can see it from here...I know that they see it everyday in your eyes. That is so wonderful! I am imagining the dance party! As a matter of fact, we had our office Christmas party tonight. After dinner, they started the music and we danced our butts off. I'm always bugging Diego to take me dancing, but he gives me excuses. (Imagine...I married the ONLY guy from Mexico who doesn't like to dance!) Tonight...we danced till we just could not dance anymore. As we were in the car driving home...he asked me if I planned that. Then, he admitted that he had a blast. I see more dancing in my future!! ;-)

ELIZABETH - I don't remember if you saw this previous post of mine, but I certainly like to dance:

Songs from the Night I Met My Wife - A Tribute

Go Diego go! I am glad to hear that you guys had such a good time dancing tonight. We don't get a chance to dance often enough in public, but we did have a great time dancing at my wife's 20th high school reunion recently.

Hey Jason what a great idea! My son Chandler is a Big and Tall kid and just recently he has started noticing his size. The odd thing is that he gets a TON of exercise (bike riding, scooters, running even when it's a balmy 38 degrees outside, like today!) but he's just a big kid. His doctors not worried, but I have been a little concerned and we've talked about better snack choices and smaller portions but I also remind him that he's supposed to be 6'4" so it's got to start somewhere!!! I love the Dance Party idea. We'll have to give that a try! Give your son a pat on the back from me just for sticking with it and again when he complete's the 26 miles!! Way to go Dad!

Jason, Excellent. Lay the foundation for physical wellness now while they're young. My son's weight became an issue in 7th grade and he was becoming the number 3 target of opportunity for the local bullies. The summer before 8th grade I took him to a nutrionist and exercise expert after he approached me and said, "Dad, I don't want to be heavy anymore. Teach me to lift weights." He's not a body builder but he's eating better, a freshman on the high school football (second string) with greatly improved self-esteem. This post, for me, is so much more important than real estate.

What a great way to encourage children to exercise and starting them young is the best. I wish we had a program in our town when my kids were yournger. This would have been the groundwork for later. One of my boys started cross country in sixth grade and this is the first time he did any substantial running. He put so much stress on his foot, he couldn't even finish the season.

Well, I'm too late....Paul already laid down the challenge:-( So what you are saying Crouch is your son could kick your butt in a race?

SANDY - Thanks for your terrific and supportive comments. My son will likely be taller than I am (6'4"), so he also has a long way to go with the height. I am ecstatic that he is taking this challenge seriously. I guess I will have to set a new goal when he finishes. This morning he finished his 10th mile, which is great for him. We have also talked about the snack choices. It has been tough with him, because he is exceptionally picky. Of course, I was probably even worse when I was a kid. Good to see you here!

ANDREW - Thanks so much for your perspective. I agree - this is more important than real estate any day. I am happy to hear that your son's self esteem is dramatically improved. I remember 7th and 8th grade as a really tough time, as many others do, I'm sure. Have a great weekend!

JUDY - I agree - it is important (and sometimes difficult) to establish good habits early. Thanks for your comments. It sounds like your son had quite an injury to deal with back then.

SARDI - No, I am saying that my son could easily kick Slaybaugh's butt in a race. Actually, it would be close, but my son would prevail. Next year, my son will shame Paul in the rematch.

PAUL - I noticed that you put an weaselly age limit on your challenge. Good thing for you that you know your limitations. My son is a 17 year old, 6'2" baseball player. My fifteen year old daughter is over the limit too. She's a 5'7" softball player. At the age of fourteen, they would have done you severe shame. At the age of eight, they would have done you severe shame.
Please let us know which hospital you are in after you are beaten by Lisa H's kids so that we may send cards.

Jason- I was going to call you this week but I just got 2 new coaching clients and 2 new orders for customizing expired packages this week; the beginning part always takes more time. We also got 2 more listings from our expired letters. So I will work on calling you next week. Katerina

Elaine: Your children are excluded. Should you have any smaller, younger children in the future, preferably with a limp, I will gladly accept their challenge.

Andrew Lenza's football playing bodybuilder son is also excluded from said competition.

Jason, What a great post!I am so proud of you and your little boy. What a great way to teach him how to be healthy and set goals! You are a GREAT Dad! :)

JASON: It's great what you're doing with your son. Anything that brings the family closer together for fun is always worth doing. Personally, we have a lot of choices of things to do here on Long Island. Ironically though, even with all of these local activities available to my kids, all they ever seem to want to do is travel the country watching Paul Slaybaugh race other people's children. Strange, huh? Since Paul always wants to race far away from parking areas, I usually just drive right up to the track and park next to it. The last race was the closest one yet. Paul was racing a toddler, so he thought that he could just cruise along. Well, the toddler was pretty fast, so Paul had to step up the pace. He tripped as he got to the finish line, and ended up winning by a "neck" in a photo finish. I took the photo from my car which was parked nearby. All I can say about this experience is GRRRRRRRRR. Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you that when I was parked next to the track the song "September" came on followed by "Night Fever." Sometimes you hear such great music when you're parked in a car!

That kid cheated, Waldman. Besides, you should have seen the calves on that toddler. He was bred for speed.

Gotta go get my sleep. Some couple from Des Moines is flying their brat in tomorrow for a go.

DEC

2007

Jason~ what a great post with 2 fantastic ideas. I love the marathon idea for kids and it's actually a great idea for anyone. It's great to see our kids excited about getting physically fit.

Who doesn't like a dance party with the kids, great choice of songs too!!

DEC

2007

KATERINA - Thanks for your comments. Just call whenever you have some free time. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

SHANNON - Thanks for your kind words and compliments! You rock!

ADAM - I once beat Paul in a pie eating contest during a tailgate party when he was attending TCU in Fort Worth. He charted a course of action that was simply stupifying. He tried to block me from eating by using a makeshift shield. Whassup with that? As for the tunes, you can hear some great stuff while parked in your car, or during an outing at the park.

LISA - I think you were the only person who mentioned liking the music, and I want to thank you for that. Yes, we have really enjoyed both the marathon program and our frequent dance parties. I think we may be having another one tonight!

Gotta go feed the meter ... okay I'm back. Parked.

DEC

2007

I'm hoping you are not saying there is something wrong with any Elvis movie or I may have to consider you my evil twin! Being I have the bust of Elvis on my mantel and the newspaper from Memphis from the day after he died in glass on my wall. (Big Elvis fan - So be careful what you say)

TODD - I, too, like Elvis, but the movies had a certain way of finding any excuse to break into a song. Actually, that's true of any musical. Now, you must blog about the Elvis bust on your mantle.

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