Ask Ben what he would like to be when he grows up, and his answer is the same that many boys probably give: a professional baseball player, more specifically, a Milwaukee Brewer. Typically I like to have a little laugh about that because, sorry to drag you into this, Mark, between our contributing genes we don't exactly bring a lot of athletic prowess. What I remember most about my middle school gym days is my classmates shouting, "Come on Ceman, hit the ball!" in a not-so-supportive way while playing my most-hated sport, volleyball.
But Ben never ceases to surprise me. This summer he was determined to play in a coach-pitch baseball league rather than tee ball. Though he was younger than most of his team by a year or more, for the aforementioned reasons, I was surprised to see him hold his own. Last week we took the boys to the annual Menasha Park & Rec summer scamper. Ben had taken first place in his age group the year before and very much wanted to again. The race began, and Ben was neck and neck with a girl from his class at school. I tried to cheer, but every time I watch him perform, I get choked up. He overtook the lead and emerged victorious. (Check out the video: http://benpaulandgus.shutterfly.com/393). Now, I know this is just a small race, but it says a lot about Ben. Whatever the challenge, he brings his unique blend of confidence and determination. (After the race, my dad reported that Ben told him, "Not only am I really smart, I'm also really fast!) A Milwaukee Brewer someday? Maybe so.
But Ben never ceases to surprise me. This summer he was determined to play in a coach-pitch baseball league rather than tee ball. Though he was younger than most of his team by a year or more, for the aforementioned reasons, I was surprised to see him hold his own. Last week we took the boys to the annual Menasha Park & Rec summer scamper. Ben had taken first place in his age group the year before and very much wanted to again. The race began, and Ben was neck and neck with a girl from his class at school. I tried to cheer, but every time I watch him perform, I get choked up. He overtook the lead and emerged victorious. (Check out the video: http://benpaulandgus.shutterfly.com/393). Now, I know this is just a small race, but it says a lot about Ben. Whatever the challenge, he brings his unique blend of confidence and determination. (After the race, my dad reported that Ben told him, "Not only am I really smart, I'm also really fast!) A Milwaukee Brewer someday? Maybe so.
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