Ryan and His New Bike

It's really not new. In fact its about 4 years old. But it's new because Ryan has never ridden it. Sure he rode it a couple times with training wheels when we lived in Guam but ever since we moved here-nothing, nada. It didn't help that both summers that we've been here Jasons been gone. That left me to teach him and well, that didn't go too well. It would have been easier if we didn't live on such a busy street or if there have been a lot of kids riding their bikes to entice Ryan to ride his. That's how I learned. A boy in my neighborhood teased me about my training wheels. I was so embarrassed I went home and taught myself. Ryan on the other hand didn't care. He just rode his scooter.

Not this summer. With rising gas prices and living in close proximity to the YMCA, city pool and library I was determined that we were going to use our bikes this summer. In order to do that Ryan had to learn. Jason and I picked a night and told Ryan this was it. No if, ands, buts about it. Reluctantly he got on and ended up walking his bike while straddling it.

"Ryan, you have to get on the bike to ride it."

Then came the arguments.

"I don't want to ride my bike!!"

"Ryan, I guarantee that once you learn you won't want to get off. You'll love it that much. It's fun!"

"No I won't."

Of course he knew he wouldn't like it because everyone he's seen riding a bike looks absolutely miserable, right?

Anyway, once he finally got on the bike he took off. He's a natural. It just took 4 years to learn. We are having absolutely beautiful weather right now-80's with a light breeze. So today, with Eric and Jenna in the Burley and everyone else on their bikes we rode to the library.

Now Ryan can't wait to ride his bike. He begs to ride it. Because you know what? According to him its FUN! No, really? If only I had thought to mention that.