Last week the twins spent a few minutes in the local bike shop. Kendra waited in the restaurant for our food so I took the opportunity to go adventuring. Layla made a bee line for the back of the store where she knew the kid bikes were lined up. She hurriedly ushered Easton so he could see the showcase of bikes. Layla jumped on a girls bike and then pointed to a boys bike while bossing him around saying, "Easton you get on THAT bike so we can ride together."
I thought he would be apprehensive, but he jumped on and started riding as though he were professionally trained and skilled in bike riding. They raced around the store for a while. Then the bad news came. Easton said, "Dad, I want to take this bike home!" I had to say no because although it was on sale, I don't pay retail for anything... even something as simple as a $150 bike. Instead my free time that evening was burned up on craigslist as I searched for a suitable bike. I found "the one" and after a few text messages agreed to a price and location. 40 bucks and a handshake later I had Easton's DiamondBack RM12 in my possession without him knowing it. The bike required a little TLC, but after some cleaning and chain lube and adjustments it was almost just like new. The best part is that Easton doesn't care or even know whether it is new or used.
I led the twins outside with promises of a surprise. Somehow Layla guessed or knew what it was because she ruined by saying, "Is it a big boy bike?" She's so smart it's scary. Easton was thrilled and jumped right on it ready to ride.
Layla was as excited as Easton. Maybe even more! She was happy for Easton to get his big boy bike so they could ride together.
Our maiden voyage down to the mailbox was successful. I define success as: no one fell, Easton made it all the way to the mailbox and back home under his own power, and he was excited to go again after the short trip was over.
The danger with trolling Craigslist for bargains like a kids bicycle it is highly probable one will find other bargains. Easton loves dinosaurs and the massive Spike the Dinosaur on display in Target catches his attention every time we go there. I laugh every time we walk by because the price tag is ridiculous and boarder line insulting to think I would pay that much for a remote control toy. As luck would have it I saw one on Craigslist, contacted the seller with a low-ball offer and they accepted.
There is no birthday around the corner or gift giving occasion coming up for him so we decided just to give him the Spike Dinosaur for no reason at all. He got his hands on the remote control and quickly figured out the buttons make him move.
He figured out Spike will chase Layla and Layla Ruth around the house so the evening was filled with dino-growls and little girls screaming and giggling as they pretend to be scared.
Toys and big ticket gifts are rare around our house, but the past two days were extra exciting because we were able to make Easton feel special with the bike and Spike. I know you can't buy love nor happiness, but it sure is fun to give gifts to a three-year-old.
See you soon!
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