Moms need training wheels too

May 20, 2007 – 5:00 pm

Dear CJ,

Yesterday we bought you a big-boy bike. It was with a mix of pride and trepidation that I watched you climb on and ride down the sidewalk, knowing that ahead lies an inevitable string of falls, scrapes, cuts, and bruises. I want to wrap you in a blanket of security to shield you from the pain I know is a natural part of this new experience. But I can’t.

I’ll bet you didn’t realize that as I jogged beside you my whole body was on alert in case you needed me to throw myself in front of you to save you from falling, or wildly flying into the street. But you didn’t need me to. You’re capable of more than I realize.

When we met up with your friends, and the three of you furiously pedaled your bikes down the pathway, calling out to each other, laughing, racing… I could feel my heart swelling with happiness at your happiness, and with sadness because you’re growing up. I was even a little worried that it might burst because it’s awfully hard on a heart to be so happy and sad at the same time.

So please, don’t grow up too fast. It’s hard on your mom.

Love,
Mommy

P.S. Be sure to wear your helmet.
P.S.S. Also, make sure to stop when you get to a road, and to look both ways, and to walk your bike across the street.
P.S.S.S. But don’t worry, I’ll be there to remind you if you forget.

***
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5 Responses to “Moms need training wheels too”

  1. By Word Imp on May 21, 2007 | Reply

    I’m really enjoying your blogging style and what a wonderful gift to your child. Well done and I wish you all the best in motherhood. It’s hard, often rewarding, often frustrating, very misunderstood, unpaid and sprinkled with magical moments which need to be snapped up and appreciated. I’ll visit again!

    [Reply to this comment]

  2. By Annie on May 21, 2007 | Reply

    Having a bike is one of those rites of passage I guess. My DH wants to be the one to buy our daughter her first bike. I tell him he’s the one that will have to go out with her on it, for all the reasons you described in your beautiful post!

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  3. By Life As I Know It on May 21, 2007 | Reply

    I love this. Rings true with me too…fortunately, my cautious boy will only ride veerrrry slowly up and down the driveway. But I’m sure the day will come when he will venture beyond the perimeter of our house!

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  4. By Queen Heather on May 21, 2007 | Reply

    awww, that’s sweet. It is so bittersweet to watch them grow up.

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  5. By Shauna on May 21, 2007 | Reply

    Aww.
    Nicely said.
    Where can I get my training wheels?

    [Reply to this comment]

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