03 January 2010

First Pick

In elementary school, I was always the last one picked for kickball teams; it was a blow to my self esteem every time. It used to hurt, but now I know that I'm just not designed for kickball and I'm okay with that.

I always admired the first pick though. The first name was called and with that the first pick was automatically declared the most wanted asset. He-- I hate to be sexist but in my memory the first pick was always a boy-- was the proven most valuable player. Why was he always good looking too? The first pick always seemed to have it all-- the looks, the skills, the smarts, and sometimes he was even humble. As a young girl, I always had a crush on the unattainable first pick. He was tall.

Until this weekend, I hadn't played kickball in years. And in my leave of absence from the game, my kickball abilities haven't changed. On Saturday, I stood at shortstop uselessly while my teammates fielded the balls. I could never decide whether I should just give up and put my hands in my pockets or whether I should squat down and look ready for the ball. I didn't want to look ready though, because the ball was the last thing I wanted.

The only thing I wanted was Mr. First Pick. He was on the other team. He has it all-- the looks, the smarts, the skills, and even the humility. He's tall. I loved watching him walk up to the plate. The outfielders would holler and back up. He'd kick and the ball would fly way over everyone's heads. It was a guaranteed home run. Every time. I stood at shortstop watching the balls he kicked fly over my head. The other team would score, but I would smile in complete excitement and disbelief.

Because this first pick is mine. He's completely mine. Seven days earlier, he picked me. I am his first pick. He called my name first and automatically declared me his most wanted asset. His proven most valuable player.

We're getting married in the Spring.

9 comments:

Marilyn Lewis said...

I love this post Laura! I've been waiting to see how you'd announce your engagement on your blog!! you did it in such a unique & happy way. Lucky guy to have the good sense to make you his top pick for eternity!!! I'm guessing you are blessed to have him too!

Haley said...

Congratulations! That's so exciting!

Maren said...

How exciting! What a great way to start out the new year!

Unknown said...

I love this post. I have to admit though, I wasn't sure what you were going to end with until the end. That's super cute!!! I love you two together. Its a perfect match!! :) Just make sure you get married before the 28th of May.

Jay said...

Laura! I came across your blog by happenstance and what perfect timing! Congratulations on your engagement!

Rachel said...

hooray!!!!!!!!!!! congratulations!

gigi said...

Yay yay yay! That's so happy! I'm so excited right now and I hardly know you. That is how good at writing you are. Best wishes!

Katie said...

he's a lucky guy. congratulations.

Kellianne said...

I hate weddings. I hate hearing over and over how someone got engaged, oohing and ahhing over some lousy ring, and any other hullabaloo that comes along with the M-word. However, I came across your blog somehow, and this post made me cry. It is beautiful. <3 Looks like there is hope and love in the world after all. :)