Milestone madness

Without any planning or trying, this past Sunday turned out to be a big day in our house - both kids hit exciting milestones. I honestly do try to enjoy the smaller milestones and moments that happen on a more regular basis, but the 'big' ones are extra-exciting and they make me want to celebrate.

First, Ella learned how to ride her bike with no training wheels. Her bike hasn't been out of the shed since 2010 - last year was totally devoted to her new scooter. But seeing friends ride their bikes sparked renewed interest and even though she needs a bigger bike, she just couldn't wait to give it a go. It was just like in the movies: the breeze was blowing gently, I held on to the back of her seat while Ella got started and then after a wobbly couple of seconds I let go and shouted "you're doing it!" as I ran along beside her. Only it was slightly less glamourous than the movies: I was wearing my Sunday track slacks, had Ryan bouncing along in a sling on my hip and I'm sure there was a look of pure terror on my face as all I could think was: please don't fall, please don't fall, please don't fall. And she didn't, my big girl.

Not to be outdone, Ryan graduated to a "big boy" car seat. I'm not really sad to say goodbye to the infant car seat, but it's such a physical symbol of his babyhood - one that I used almost every single day for the past 11 months - and packing it away is a reminder that my baby is growing up. Not surprisingly, he celebrated this special milestone by screaming through the whole first ride in his new car seat. Guess he likes change about as much as I do.

We also got rid of Ryan's exersaucer - hallelujah! That big, plastic monstrosity was taking up way too much real estate in our small house, plus it didn't match my decor. (Question: why can't Fisher Price make toys in more attractive warm beiges, buttery yellows and rich purples??) Like the car seat, I'm not sad to see it (or the jolly jumper or bouncy chair) go, but it caused a little twinge in my heart to know that he'll never again be little enough to go in an exersaucer. I love that he's getting bigger ... but I also hate that he's getting bigger.

Last, and definitely least, Ryan capped off this extraordinary day by demonstrating his ability to lean over in his bath and lick the water like a cat. Way to go, buddy, I'm so proud of you!