Starting off the New Year with New Wheels

My son had been eyeing a lime green bike on display at REI for almost a whole year, but was adamantly against helmets. We tried all sorts of persuasion, as we knew that he would enjoy having his very first bike. But safety first: no helmet, no bike.

But then on a recent visit to the store, my daughter climbed right on a cute purple bike on display and insisted that we buy it for her, complete with a pink princess helmet. Not to be outdone by his little sister, my son was quietly willing to consider helmets. We hadn't planned on buying bikes on a random day in the middle of the winter, but we jumped at the opening, before either of them changed their minds.

Sure enough, my daughter rode her bike only a couple times before deciding she wasn't interested anymore. But buying it was totally worth it. As we had expected, my son LOVES his new bike, is fearless, and wants to ride everywhere. And this winter weather has been so mild that we've had many opportunities to go out for a spin. His huge, beaming smile and hearty laugh totally warms my heart. I absolutely love these childhood milestones, full of pure joy and excitement about newfound independence. Thank goodness for having my camera on hand so that I can remember these moments and emotions forever!