Our Big Kid

For the last 2 days Will's been doing "bike practice" with the neighbor. He's taken a special liking to the middle child (Ashlee) who's about to turn 7. "Ash" (as he calls her) has been giving him lessons on how to ride a 2-wheeler. He puts on all her girly gear (helmet, elbow pads and knee pads) and she gives him pointers on how to ride her bike. She tries to run along behind him holding on but has a hard time keeping up. The funny thing is that he's got all his own gear but for some reason "bike practice" involves using hers. Oh well, whatever works. So Scott took Will's training wheels off this morning. I'd seen him practicing at the bottom of the neighbor's driveway and he looked like he was doing pretty well. This afternoon I suggested that he try riding his own bike in the cul-de-sac. I literally held the handlebars and seat while he hopped on and I let go of the front as he started peddling. I ran behind him holding the seat for about 3 seconds and then let go and he was off. No turning back. I'm so proud of him. He's pretty proud of himself too. I can't take any of the credit though. It was all Ashlee's doing. Her big sister taught her, and she taught Will. I told Will that he'll be the one responsible for teaching Alex. But not too soon. I'm still getting a handle on this big kid stuff.

To top off the day, Will's also started showering by himself. I'm not sure why I suggested it today, especially since I'm still trying to come to grips with the fact that my soon-to-be-five-year-old is riding a 2 wheeler. But after the hot 90-degree day and all his bike riding, Will was a pile of sweat, sunscreen and dirt. So, while I got Alex ready for bed I suggested that Will have a shower. He jumped at the chance to tackle more big-kid stuff. That's all I can handle for today. Tonight we all go to bed proud of the day's accomplishments and maybe a little sad that my baby's not so much of a baby anymore.

Next step: potty training for Alex.