NO Training Wheels

We are outside quite a bit. We like to ride bikes, scooters, anything with wheels. We also like to ride bikes, scooters, anything with wheels off of ramps. I often hear, "Mom, watch me!" while outside. I don't always give me kids the proper attention as I seem to find ways to be busy in my yard instead. However, one day the end of May made me stop everything I was doing and stare at my 3 year old. He was riding his first pedal two wheeler with no training wheels.

His little yellow balance bike did the trick. He could manage on a two wheeler just fine. I was surprised he was so coordinated at pedaling and braking. It was a matter of minutes before he was pedaling as fast as his little legs could go. I am so proud of him. And I credit the desire and readiness all to Scott. It won't be long before the two are complete mountain biking buddies.

A 360

Growing up Scott lived on a bike, practically. He spent much of his adolescent free time riding a bike, fixing a bike, racing a bike, rescuing a bike. He loved BMX and mountain biking. Anything that really kept him busy. He learned a lot by working in a couple of different bike shops in Elko as a teenager. He made good friendships that helped define himself. This past winter he set a goal to start mountain bike racing again. It is his passion. We are finally in a place that allows this outlet for his energy. His first two races for the season were at Sundance. He was really nervous but excited to again live a dream from so long ago. Watson and I went to his first race. He was in a beginner class with riders aged 19-50+. He did such a great job being focused and driven and placed 4th overall. I am so proud to see him work hard to achieve this goal.

The fearless racer.

Perfect entertainment while waiting.

Always ready to be a superhero.

The final hill and finish line.

The gear.

His next race was at Wolf Mountain. He raced against many of the same riders from his first race. He took 1st! We didn't get to see that one but I felt so happy for him!

A Little More Watson

I've really started to realize how short my time with Watson is becoming. He is really ready to spread his wings and become more independent. I don't think I'm ready. He is changing every day. Becoming more of his little stubborn self (a bit of Grandpa Bee.) But he is also very tender and sweet. I love that he likes to snuggle right after his afternoon nap. He calls me to his room several times at bedtime just to say, "love you." How does growing up happen so quickly? And why does it seem so hard right in the middle of it?

First face painting experience. It lasted ALL day! 

He hopes to follow in Dad's adventurous footsteps.

He thinks he's ready.  I know I'm not.

A little daredevil action on the raised curb at the park.

Signs of summer, and very long eyelashes.

Mother's Day

Mother's Day morning I woke up to fresh flowers and the sounds of Dad and Watson making a special card, just for me. Scott had been working on a special surprise for all the mother's in my family with organizing a one of a kind dinner. Mom, Amy, Challey, Channa, and I sat at a special table by ourselves while all the men managed the kids, the cooking, and everything in between. It was lovely.

I'm grateful for my own mother and her constant selfless service and love for me and my family. She is a great example of how to give with no expectation of anything in return. I'm thankful for my sisters and sister in law for their support and examples in being a good mother. It seems there are many chances to practice mothering around me. I'm grateful for the inspiration Heavenly Father offers and that He is patient with me as I learn how to be the best Mother I can.

Family Fun Time

Thanks to our Pass of All Passes, we got to enjoy a baseball game a little earlier in the season than we usually do. Watson enjoyed sitting in the stands and we ran into friends from the neighborhood. Watching the Salt Lake Bees play at least once in the season is one of our traditions. Eating a churro half your size is maybe Watson's favorite part of this. The weather was perfect and it was fantastic to just be together.

It's Official, He is a Teenager!

This is Chandler when we first became a family. His eyes have always been the clear, beautiful, piercing blue. I can't believe how little he seems way back when. He is what made me a mother first. I remember his sweet willingness to let me become a part of his life. He has always been a sensitive, kind, and loving boy. This happy birthday marks a new era for all of us, teenage-dom. I'm excited for the adventures to come! We love you Chando Mando!

Tripping Through the Tulips

I love flowers, of practically any sort. I love that we live so close to Thanksgiving Point and it's acres of gardens. We visited the Tulip Festival this spring and definitely got our fill of blooming daffodils and colorful tulips. Watson was "crowned" a king and we explored every part of the gardens. It is nice to expose my warrior to the softer side of life. He was good to not battle or destroy any of the beauty all around.

He is pretty brave and fearless, but it's hard to take that so serious when he is wearing a flower crown on his head.

A Little more Silly Science

Watson and I continued our science exploring here and there this month. We attempted fizzy painting. It didn't work out really great, but it was fun to get messy! We also investigated what happens when you poke a sharp pencil through a water filled baggy. It was so great to hear Watson make predictions before the experiment and talk about what happened. He is so curious and I hope to help this always be a part of his learning.