Good times, growing up, and gifts!

Way back weeks or probably even months ago, we promised Dale that we he learned to ride a bicycle we would get him one of his very own.

(We were giving 'lessons' and practice sessions with a neighbor-friend's.)

While at first there didn't seem to be a lot of motivation or progress, one day Dale made up his mind he was ready to learn.

A week or two later, he could wobble from one end of the loooong driveway to the other, and stop (most of the time) without falling.

About that time, Daddy Buffalo found a good deal on a brand new bike, and we knew we had to grab it. (Especially since we hadn't had much any luck finding a decent used one!)

Then came the question: wait the two months for Christmas, or pass out the goodies when ya got 'em?

Well, if we'd waited for Christmas I wouldn't be writing this post, now would I?

We went with the "close your eyes and hold out your hands" method:

(Yes, yes, I know: Alan standing there with his eyes closed is quite heart-breaking. I was so caught up in the moment I missed it when it happened, but the pictures and video show it quite well!)

Anyway, back to Dale. It was his moment.

When he felt the handlebars under his fingers his eyes popped open and his jaw dropped to his chest.

And the very first thing he did was throw his leg over the seat. He was ready to go!

And while Dale admired his new bike from all angles, Alan was trying something else from all angles. Without one whine or tear, he snuggled up to his Daddy and said, "Daddy? Will you get me a bicycle too?"
Don't feel too sorry for him. His birthday is in less than 2 weeks, and I have very good reason to believe something with wheels and pedals will be showing up. :)

And don't let that lip fool you either - you see the grin in those eyes?
In just the few days since the weekend, Dale's riding has greatly improved even from what it was. It makes his day to be able to ride side-by-side with his Daddy, or race with his friends down the driveway.

Dale was thoroughly impressed with and grateful for his bicycle. We couldn't have asked for more, and were so glad we gave it when we did!