On Sunday, my son learned how to ride his bike without training wheels.
He’s ridden before with training wheels, but recently the bike hadn’t caught his interest. That day, though, he asked to sit outside. My husband noticed him fiddling with the bike on the ground and asked, “Do you want to ride it?”
My son looked up and replied, “But the tires are flat.”
Without hesitation, my husband took the bike to the barn, aired up the tires, and gave our son a little push. In one moment, everything changed. He took off—steady, confident, and free. No hesitation, no wobbles—just pure joy as he pedaled down the driveway.
I was inside when my husband called me and said, “You need to come outside right now. I have a feeling you won’t want to miss this.”
And he was right.
As soon as I stepped outside, I saw my son ride past the house. My heart nearly burst. Tears welled up as I realized I was witnessing a milestone—one of those moments that etches itself into your memory forever.
That night, as I laid in bed praying to Jesus, I realized I hadn’t stopped to thank Him for the small things. I often pray over the big needs, the stresses, and the dreams, but how often do I pause to thank Him for the everyday blessings that make life rich?
I’m thankful for my vision—that I could watch my son ride his bike for the very first time.
I’m thankful for the ability to walk outside and be present in that moment.
I’m thankful to afford a device in my hand that let me capture the memory on video.
I’m thankful for the gift of motherhood, which allows my heart to experience the depth of love and joy in moments just like this.
Life is full of these seemingly small, ordinary moments that end up being extraordinary when we choose gratitude.
So today, I want to encourage you: pause and thank God for the little things. The sight of your child’s smile. The sound of laughter around your dinner table. The feeling of fresh air as you step outside. These are not small—they are gifts.
Because one day, we’ll look back and realize the “little things” were always the big things.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Messy & Meaningful 