October 8

One of Brady's long-term goals was to throw an 80mph fastball before the beginning of his freshman season of baseball.

And today during his pitching lesson --about four months ahead of schedule-- he attained that goal.

Twice.

I didn't catch the exact moment after his coach consulted the radar gun and confirmed he'd hit the mark for the first time (besting his previous official high-water mark by 5mph). I wish I had, because he threw a fist in the air and grinned like the Cheshire cat. But I was happy for him.

Brady is the kind of kid who sets goals and then puts in work to reach them. He has good focus and discipline, both of which are traits that I'm sure God will use. (How, exactly, I don't know. But I'm confident they'll be used!)

It's a blessing to see my kiddos work hard and reap the rewards of their efforts.