Round and Round, Then Straight Ahead

This past weekend we jetted north to Merrillville to spend a little bit of time with Grammy Pammy. The plan was to meet at a Lake County park so the kids could play outside, then to lunch at Red Robin. While both were accomplished, the park didn't last long because of mid-morning temperatures in the 40's.

So we stopped by the mall near Red Robin and let the kids take a couple of rides on the Merry Go Round. This was a huge hit for both Kari and Bryce as it was the closest they'll get to an amusement park ride at this point in life.

We finished the time with Grammy and Dale by feasting on a delicious burger at Red Robin. The kids devoured bottomless mac and cheese like they'd never eaten before. This was a nice way to split the difference between WL and Chicago on a Saturday and get to spend some quality time together.

Tonight, Kari ventured out on her first bike ride sans training wheels. Holly spent the first jaunt from the driveway down the street running and begging K to pedal faster. Then I slowed her down to focus on the aspects of balance, regardless of speed.

While the two adults disagreed vehemently on which strategy was correct at the time, Kari then literally took off on her own (clearly absorbing Dad's knowledge first and then realizing speed was needed to stay steady). She went down the sidewalk gaining more and more speed and was able to go halfway down the block on her own.

This took place 4-5 times with no falls or issues. It was quite gratifying to see how quickly she picked it up, but more importantly how she was able to do it without falling.

Now Bryce will begin his time on Kari's former little bike with training wheels. He's mastered the art of the tricycle, so we'll move towards the loss of a wheel and see how that goes.

Earlier this weekend Bryce thought he'd show he's into the arts. First his ability to draw with markers, followed soon thereafter by some of his dance moves. Mind you near the end of his dance he says "that really hurts daddy" but keeps on showing off his moves!