Our “Little Flyer” – Ryan’s First Tricycle Ride

Much to my surprise, one unseasonably warm afternoon in early April, Ryan donned his bicycle helmet, dragged his tricycle to the “starting line” (where the sidewalk meets the front stoop), mounted his tricycle, enthusiastically (and dramatically) announced, “on your mark, get set, go!” and began feverishly pedaling. He even executed the 90-degree turn in the sidewalk unassisted and without incident. Once he reached the downhill portion of the driveway and started unexpectedly picking up speed, a look of sheer panic replaced the mischievous dimpled grin and he nervously insisted, “Catch me, Mommy, catch me!”

His ride couldn’t have lasted more than 30 seconds. But during that short period of time as I witnessed his growing independence, I wrestled with the competing emotions of pride, joy, and sadness – pride at his courage for mastering a new skill, joy at seeing his satisfaction and hearing him giggle with complete abandon, and sadness at the realization that Ryan is growing up much too quickly and won’t always need me to “catch him.”

Author Sloan Wilson once said, “The hardest part of raising a child is teaching them to ride bicycles. A shaky child on a bicycle for the first time needs both support and freedom. The realization that this is what the child will always need, can hit hard.” Ryan’s first tricycle ride gave me a brief glimpse into this common struggle of parenthood – knowing when to hold on, and when to let go. It was also a reminder that the road through life can be filled with wonder and delight, but can also be laden with bumps and unforeseen potholes. Luckily, for now, Ryan still needs us to help guide him around unexpected obstacles, tend to scraped knees and elbows, celebrate his accomplishments, and encourage him to get back on his bike when he falls. I suspect he’ll always need this support and guidance from us, although it will likely take different forms over the years. We don’t know where this journey will take us, but we plan to enjoy the ride!