Let Her Eat Cake

MJ on wheels

Mira surprises me—her own mother—pretty much daily. About a year ago, she was invited to a roller-skating party at a local rink, and from the moment I received the Evite, my head started spinning. I can barely find sneakers that fit her XX-wide feet—how on earth would a roller rink have skates for her? Her balance isn’t exactly flawless; she still takes the occasional tumble while running. So was putting her on wheels in a crowded rink full of zooming kids really the best idea?

But Mira was so excited about this party, which meant that skipping it wasn’t an option. I called the rink in advance to ask about their skates. The woman on the phone suggested those plastic Fisher-Price strap-on skates—the same ones that, if you grew up in the ’80s like me, practically guaranteed a faceplant. Not exactly the solution I was hoping for.

I scoured the internet for a toddler-size, XX-wide, adjustable, and safe skate—a tall order for such tiny feet. But the very next day, Amazon delivered Mira’s perfect pair right to our doorstep.

That morning, I kept my expectations low. I even reassured Mira that if she didn’t feel like skating, she could still cheer on her friends, celebrate with the birthday girl, and, of course, enjoy some cake.

But after just five minutes of practice—and with the help of an adjustable-height skating aid—Mira took off like a bat out of hell, her tiny pink wheels flashing with every turn. Heads turned as kids watched in disbelief, eyes wide as Mira zipped around the rink, lap after lap, without a single hesitation.

At that moment, I was completely in awe. Mira’s determination and resilience were a powerful reminder that she could do anything she set her mind to. And for me, it was a lesson, too—that sometimes, all it takes is an extra phone call, a few questions, or, in our case, an Amazon delivery to turn the impossible into possible. Shame on me for ever doubting her, even for a second.

Mira has tackled trampoline parks, cooking classes, painting studios, and so many other places that weren’t exactly designed for someone her size. But she hasn’t done it alone. With our support, she has learned to problem-solve, ask for help, recognize her limitations, and push past them. We’re on this journey together, and watching her grow and thrive has been nothing short of inspiring.

Yesterday, she attended her friend’s party at an aerial yoga studio, and neither of us knew what to expect. I dropped her off and returned an hour later to find Mira and her friends joyfully tangled in long silk fabrics suspended from the ceiling. The studio owner made sure she could participate safely, setting her up with a high mat, a lower-hanging fabric, and even a cushioned step stool. It was incredible to watch her navigate the silks with confidence, fully immersed in the experience.

I can’t wait to see what she’ll conquer next.