Harrison’s old bike blew a tire last fall and as a result, he had not been able to ride for about six months. He kept asking for us to buy him a replacement, but, instead, we decided to wait and give him a new bike for his birthday. It was not an easy ride (pardon the pun). Try telling a 7 year old, “ good things come to those who wait”. He asked for bikes at yard sales; he borrowed bikes from neighbors; he even asked if we could go “trash hunting” (which is another story entirely, but yes, I must admit that you find quite a few treasures in our neighborhood the nights before trash pickup). The poor boy was desperate for some wheels. But, as time passed, his maturity started to shine, and he grew into appreciation for the date on which he would turn 8. And, that day finally came. We were so proud of him and for him.
If you can imagine a 5 year old girl scaling walls higher and faster than a bunch of 8 year old boys, then you can imagine Grayson at her brother’s birthday party. The girl has “a natural talent”, we were told by those who belay (the process of keeping climbers safe during their climb). We were approached by the climbing coach and asked if Grayson could join the Memphis Climb Team in the fall. They usually don’t take climbers as young as she, but, they were insistent on wanting her. She’ll be the youngest team member if we decide to say yes. As long as its rock walls with climbing harnesses rather than tall trees without any belaying, Mom might agree to let her do it. Dad is so proud.
Harrison’s 8th birthday party was held at climBRIDGES, which is a monthly event featuring a 35 foot climbing wall at a local Memphis organization downtown. BRIDGES works with teenagers to build bridges over cultural, ethnic, economic and other divides. Several friends donated to BRIDGES in honor of Harrison for his birthday. Check out my climber! 
Omi has always been full of life and an actress, no matter in character or real life. Her enthusiasm for hair has spread now beyond the confines of Montgomery, Alabama. Look out Elvis! 
All dressed up in (some of) Omi’s things, Grayson and I went to her St. Mary’s School Tea Party. A tradition for St. Mary’s junior kindergarteners, the girls served snacks and sang for all the moms. This also was her almost last day of school. Summer, here we come!
