Kara learning to ride a bike

Kara was born trying to catch up to her two older brothers. From the beginning, she wanted to be able to do everything that Chris and Jason could do. One of the many things I loved about her was her unrelenting determination once she decided that she wanted to do something. The spring when she turned five she decided she wanted to ride a two wheeler like Chris and Jason did. We had a little red bike that Jason and Chris had both learned on. So we brought it out of the garage. Our street – Lansdowne Rd.- was a gentle downhill that helped provide momentum once you got going. We started off with me holding the seat of the bike and running alongside as Kara fearlessly peddled. After only a few practice rides with me by her side, she decided it was time for her to go solo. I tried my best to talk her out of it but she insisted she was ready and didn’t want me holding onto the bike. Even at five, I knew that if Kara had decided that she wanted to do something, one way or another she was going to do it. With many misgivings but hoping for the best I watched her take off on a wobbly descent down the street. As she gained momentum, unfortunately her wobbliness increased. I tried to run and catch her but she was gaining speed and heading right for a telephone pole. Bang! Sure enough, she plowed right into it. She landed in a heap entangled in the bike. It was a scary sight. I ran to her ready to put the bike away at least for the afternoon. No way! She shed a few tears, but then picked herself up and said that she was trying again! We went back to the top of the street and kept going until she could ride that Bike!! By the time the rest of the family was home to watch, she could zip around on the little red bike all by herself with a huge smile on her face. Kara, you lived your short life with determination and you always wanted to go full speed ahead. I know that you are living in the fullness of God’s love and that you are determined that all your loved ones feel your spirit and love. I love you……Mom