Shannon rides into the Future

Last year, one story in particular stood out to me... a young girl named Shannon.

Shannon had just turned seven, and I got to watch this day in her highlights. It was a bright, sunny day in September and Shannon had just received a shiny, new pink bicycle for her birthday. It wasn't just any bicycle; it was her first bike without training wheels. She had the biggest grin on her face while jumping for joy. She wanted a new bike.

They went in front of the house on the street. At first Shannon was very nervous, she was still unsure of herself without training wheels. It was touching how Shannon's father had carefully, encouraged her to give it a try. "I know you can do it... I believe in you." As he followed beside her, she wobbled, her legs were too shaky. But determination is a powerful thing, especially in the heart of a child.

"I got an idea, Honey... Lets go to the baseball field." Come to think of it, her dad's idea was brilliant. The baseball diamond was where the ground was stiff but much more forgiving than pavement. "Are you ready?"

"I think so" Shannon answered.

He'd give her a running start, a gentle push, and then trail behind her. Shannon made it a few pedals, then put her feet back on the ground.

"It's ok Shannon, you got it. Just keep pedaling and the bike will go with you." A few more tries and one or two falls, but Shannon climbs to her feet ready to conquer it.

"I think I'm getting the hang of this. I can do it." Shannon exclaimed... and five minutes, Shannon was zooming around the baseball diamond like a pro and her laughter was heard echoing across the field.

"She was a natural," I thought. "Fearless and ready."

Shannon's mother had stood nearby, cheering her on, her eyes were brimming with pride. "My little girl is growing up."

It wasn't long before Shannon was showing off her new skills to the neighborhood, inviting kids to race and challenging them to keep up with her newfound speed.

Looking back to that day, it's funny how Shannon had taken a tumble. She'd skinned her knee and for a moment, she looked ready to cry. Then she noticed the look of belief in her father's eyes and the cheers of from her mother. She got right back up, dusted herself off, and hopped back on her bike. That was Shannon—brave and resilient.

I thought about the perfect gift for Shannon this Christmas. A new bike bell and a new bike helmet seemed just right. The bell would be a fun addition to her bike, allowing her to announce her presence with a cheerful ring, while the helmet would keep her safe on her many adventures.

I thought to myself. Safety first, Shannon needs to be protected while she explores the world on two wheels.

I called over one of my more talented elves, Jingle, to discuss the special gift. Jingle had a knack for crafting functional items, our mini engineer. I just knew he would create something perfect for this little girl.

"Jingle, I need your help with a special gift for Shannon," explaining my idea.

The elf's eyes sparkled with excitement. "A bike helmet and a new bell? You got it, I can make them extra special! Add some sparkles and bright colors for the helmet... and a little magic up my sleeve for the bell’s ring?"

"I knew I could count on you, Jingle"

Shannon's story has a special place in his heart, she reminds me of my daughter when she learned to ride a bike. I wanted to encourage her... to keep pushing her limits... keep exploring this world. I remember it like it was yesterday, with my daughter's new bike skills and her 7th birthday, all she wanted to do was ride bikes all around the Ocean City New Jersey boardwalk. And before you know, your children are off to the races

It's now December and we're preparing for quite the delivering run this year. I can only imagine the look on Shannon's face when she gets to open her sparkling helmet and new magical bell.

Then... I start to daydream, when I reach Shannon's home, I can already see her bike resting against the porch, a little worn from her adventures but still shining under the porch light. Then I picture Shannon flying around her cul de sac on her big girl bike, making her presence known by ringing her new bell... ready to take on the world.

Stay safe to all the bike riders out there.