Today is one I won’t forget.  I’m pretty sure it’s a day Ben will tell his wife and kids about one day too.  It was that good!

It starts about four years ago when Ben started kindergarten and met an amazing group of boys who would continue to be his buddies each year.  We got to know and love the families and have been so grateful for their friendships. One family, in particular, has been paired up with us each year, in the same class.  They also happen to be very involved in the local football team (the coach/president of the program).  That family came to Ben’s 10th birthday party and came up with a plan.  A plan to have Ben participate in the Winfield Cavaliers homecoming football game today.

Ben was an honorary member and was given his own jersey and gear to play.

He was a team captain and participated in the coin toss.

I think his favorite part was drinking out of the water bottles on the sidelines.

He ran a touchdown with the crowd cheering him the whole way.

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He was loved and cheered and high-fived by his best friends and new friends too…and brothers and moms and dads and uncles there to support their favorite player.

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…and he posed for pictures with cheerleaders (maybe that was his favorite part?)

He even was awarded the game ball.

He got all this because he’s Ben.  He’s a team player and a star.  He may not run as fast or catch as well, but man–he’s got the heart of a winner. And he’s got more fans than he knows what to do with.

One of my biggest fears for my kids is acceptance by their peers.  I’m pretty sure we’ve solidified and grew some friendships today and filled our bucket with acceptance and love.

I have visions of future high school games, watching our favorite players that we’ve known since Mrs. Zumbrun’s kindergarten class.  The Larrick family will be on the sidelines in the months and years to come to cheer on this great group of players, friends and families.  Go Cavs!

Besides making my beloved’s day, I’m so grateful for all the love and support from our fabulous Winfield community.  We are where we are meant to be and it’s an incredible feeling to be this kiddo’s mom.

#suckitmenkes