two wheels

"Bye Mom!"

You yell back to me as you peddle your 
no-more-training-wheels, bicycle out of our driveway. 

I stand in the front door watching you looking both ways 
on the road before peddling over to play with 

the neighbor boys on your own, across the street.

The neighbors have a cool, huge trampoline and a cool "Miss Teri" for a Mama 

who always likes to feed you fun snacks you're not allowed to have at home.

I shake my head in disbelief as I close the front door and walk back 
into the now quiet house with only cat and dog to keep me company. 

You're growing up so fast.

There are things a new Mom naturally day-dreams about her first child. 

Like first smiles, solid foods, words, steps, and even sports games... 

but who ever thinks of the first time her son will 

have a preference to the colors he will wear,

or ask to be done with his five point harness car seat,

or ride off across the street to play with friends on his own?  

I sure didn't.

And as much as I love the fulfillment of the long dreamed of firsts, 

it's really the unexpected ones that catch me off guard and make me 

the happiest to be alive and right here, right now, with you.

Lately, you're growing taller than I'd yet imagined you. 

You're always analyzing and thinking more deeply than I'm prepared for. 

You never fail to amaze me. 


You're all giggles and sparks. 

And life with you is filled with sweet tender moments, 
and surprises around every corner. 

It is so wonderful to be your Mom, watching you every step of the way, 

pinching your little cheeks, holding your ever growing hand, 

seeing you inch your way taller and taller at my side...

I'm so grateful to have you,

my little "two-wheel" rider.