It could have gone either way...

For the past week, the boys have been going to ride their bikes with friends in the church parking lot by our house. They make up races and ride for hours. It has been really fun. This afternoon I was talking to a neighbor and watching the boys ride to the church for yet another day of fun. Caleb was already at the church and I watched as Christopher waited for a police car coming down the street to pass and then he headed across the street to the church. To my surprise, the police car flipped a u-turn and pulled into the church parking lot. Uh oh! I quickly walked up to the church thinking that one of the neighbors must have called to complain about the boys. I was so nervous. I didn't know what to say. I really hate confrontation! As I got to the church, the police officer exited the parking lot. Huh? The boys were hurrying towards me on their bikes saying, "Mom! Mom!" Ugh! My palms were sweating. Anxiety does that to me. So annoying!
Christopher came up to show me that the officer had given him his business card and a Subway gift card. What?? You're not in trouble?? He said that the officer wanted to reward him for looking both ways and crossing the street safely and for wearing his helmet. Unbelievable! This is yet another reason why I love living here. I called and left a message for the officer to thank him for what he had done. That was totally unexpected and greatly appreciated! It was such a proud parenting moment. It is nice to know that all of the nagging to "look both ways" and "don't you dare ride your bike without your helmet" are paying off.