Those Moments

Before becoming  a parent, you see images/clips/tv shows/movies etc. of parents gushing over those “proud parenting moments.” Before kids, we can all live to imagine what that must feel like, how it must feel to see a part of you succeeding.

But nothing can prepare you for those moments. Whether it’s a first step or a gold medal, watching your heart and soul accomplishing milestones is hard to describe.

One of my favorite characteristics of Gavin is that whatever he tries, he gives it his full attention and dedication. Nothing is ever done halfway with this little guy – like his mama, it’s all or nothing.

Since getting his bike tire fixed, getting Gavin off his bike has become a challenge. Every free moment is filled with, “can I go ride mama? please?” We luckily live on a dead end street and in the last 48 hours I’ve lost track of how many laps he has pedaled. As he crosses the street to enter our driveway (after cautiously looking both ways) I immediately hear, “AGAIN!” And either Casey or I have to say, “Ready….set…go!!!!” And he’s off, pedaling as quickly as those little legs will take him.

If this keeps up, I’d be willing to bet he’ll toss those training wheels aside by the end of the summer. It’s more than fun to watch him enjoy this new sense of freedom, and nothing is better than spending the last few minutes of dusk (in a season before mosquitoes) watching him ride and listening to his little voice singing happily as he circles the block again and again.

Gavin is also finishing up his first year of preschool. After swallowing my fears (and pride) of sending our kiddo with some extra needs into a place I can’t control – my fears were quickly diminished. In this last year school year, Gavin has thrived. He loves making new friends, learning letters/numbers/simple math, and getting some time away from the chaos of our home. He was blessed to have two of the best teachers I could have asked for.

When you see someone everyday, it can be difficult to see the physical changes happening right before your eyes. While I knew he had grown since his first day, seeing the images side by side really show the difference the last few months have brought.

 

The baby face of three has disappeared into the “bigger” kid looks of four. We couldn’t be more proud of the kid he has become.