Milestones

There are so many milestones in childhood. Each one is both a happy and sad moment; except for potty training...there was nothing sad about not having to change diapers anymore. I'm thinking more of their first words, their first steps, their first day of school, and now.....riding their bikes without training wheels.


Jeff decided to let Rachel try riding without her training wheels last week and she did beautifully. Today, he decided to let Anna try. Like always, you can clearly see the differences in personality in something as simple as riding a bike. Rachel is cautious. She takes it slowly and is methodical in her approach. Anna is wide freakin' open from the moment she took off. Jeff could hardly keep up as she wrecklessly zoomed down our cul-de-sac. I had the song "Born to be Wild" running through my head as she barrelled by time and again.


They both bear watching. Rachel hasn't quite learned yet to master the art of paying attention to her surroundings and taking the turns cleanly. While Anna can ride straight and stop independently, she still has much to learn about turning, etc.


What a happy and sad moment for us as parents. I was thrilled that they have mastered this new milestone. But, at the same time, I realize how quickly time goes by and it saddens me that they won't be little forever.


Here are some pictures of my wild women on two wheels. And, yes, the protective gear (helmets, etc.) came out quickly after these photos were taken.