When Spring Came.

It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.  ~Charles Dickens, Great Expectations

So to celebrate, we bundled up and went outdoors and rode bikes for the very first time this year.

I couldn't believe how much delight this one activity could bring!  We stayed out for nearly an hour--soaking up sunshine and breathing in the freshness of it all.

And I was amazed at how much my sweeties had grown up over just one year.  They were all older, and more confident, and taller somehow. Especially May. She was all grown-up and independent and all I had to do was follow her cute little trike around, as opposed to last year when I would have to chase her and keep her from wandering into the street every few seconds.

Oh lovely Spring I'm so very glad you're here!!!

Tate too???

Tate is learning to ride a two-wheeler too.  Maybe this will be the summer of two boys each riding two-wheelers?  We shall see...(and I have it all captured on video that I hope to someday edit and compile into family movies...)

It's Like Riding a Bike.

Notice the grin on Easton's face.  He's finally learned to ride a two-wheeler and we are so happy for him!  Parenthood has taught me many things and one of them is that children will learn when they are ready.  Forcing them to learn according to our timetable doesn't work for anything--not potty training, the alphabet, reading, or riding a bike.

Last year Patrick and Easton spent hours and hours outside learning the basics of riding a two-wheeler. With Patrick's patient help, Easton grasped everything---except that final push of courage needed for mastery.

But this year he was ready.  And with Papa's and Daddy's help he's now cruising along without any help at all.  And I've learned time and time again that the best way to approach learning skills is to teach lovingly and then sit back in patience and wait for them to spread their wings.