And they're off!

The training wheels, that is. Ethan has fought taking the training wheels off his bike for so long now. He told me several months ago that he would try riding his bike without them if he had knee pads and elbow pads. Guess what one of his gifts for Christmas was!? Yes, elbow pads and knee pads.

Yesterday, Colin took the training wheels off and we trekked 3 blocks to a huge open area playground where he could learn on soft grass. Our yard's just not big enough.

Of course, he didn't want the pads on, and he was SO ready to learn. He took to it so fast and was flying around the park. We were so proud of him and he was so proud of himself, which is even better.

He had a rough time trying to ride home on the sidewalk. He needs a little more confidence with staying in a straight line and braking. So far, he just slows to a stop on the grass.

Today, we went back to the park and this time, he perfected starting! He needed to be pushed yesterday. Again, SO proud of himself! We ended the day with some ice cream at McDonald's.

Oh, and we've realized Ethan has grown A LOT since we bought this bike a year ago. Guess we'll be looking for a bigger one. We can put the training wheels back on and Silas can ride this one, as he's already pretty keen to ride as he watches his big brother.
First attempt

Within minutes, he's way ahead of Dad.

Proud rider!

Silas chasing Ethan

Ethan fell and was mad. Colin told him to make a "mad face". LOL

Oops!

I think he's done.

Time to play!

Don't you just love this face??

Silas insisted on wearing the pads and ended up looking overly cautious on the playground. What a nut!

Another face to die for!

"Wing! Wing!" (Swing)

"I will not wear my hat! No, I will not wear my hat!" Yes, it's an ongoing battle.

Ethan, also looking a bit overly cautious, not wanting to take off his new helmet while he plays.