Absolutely Loving their bikes

I am happy to share that our lives have changed dramatically for the better - now that Mattias is riding a balance bike!! It started about two weeks ago (shortly after seeing photos of cousin Abram on his new balance bike) when he asked to get it out, and suddenly was able to sit and control the handlebars. Previously we had gotten the bike out and he would take a few steps with it, and then get frustrated or disinterested. But this time, within a day or two he had got the hang of it, and now he is totally in love with his bike. He has gotten very fast and agile, too. He loves going over bumps and racing with Timo up and down the driveway.

Every day he asks to ride it, and together he and Timo race and 'encourage' each other. The only challenge is getting them to come inside for supper when it is starting to get dark! I foresee a wonderful spring and summer ahead of us!!

this was on the 2nd day that he tried it

going in a loop around the house

Less than a week after he had learned, I took the boys to campus (and we even ran into Jim!). It's the perfect place to ride and practice because of all the safe, open areas and sidewalks. Plus, a bonus: students often smile and say, "So cute!" when they see them (and I get a tea from Starbucks in the dining hall, the only location around for 20 miles).

boys on their bikes, with Jim watching, in front of the student union

Yes - more pics! Here are scenes from their 'race track'. It starts at the door in the garage and goes down the driveway, downhill; all the while they scream and make faces and try to crash in the leaves at the end for extra fun.

Timo is off! (See Mattias waiting his turn?)

Mattias is off! With a happy yell.

When the sun is shining, the hill/driveway is a lovely place to play.

Our independent explorer

Nothing stops them - even when there was snow earlier in the day and the boys are in snow pants, and I am stomping up and down the driveway to keep warm!