That's awesome about the gift! How nice.

I'm sure your mom is still worried to death about you. But loves you enough she just wants you to have happiness--one of any mothers wish for her children. Bike = happy, then gear it is as the gift.

I held off on telling my mom about my recent crash. Even after telling her, I have not seen her because my face is so hideous. When the fm came to pick me up at the ER, DD started crying and just hugged me. When the people you love hurt, you hurt.

However, one can't limit their lives due to fear. To live is to chance. So, good for your mom on doing the hardest thing ever... letting go.

Hope you wear that gear on many safe and happy miles!