Since Micah joined the pedal-pushing ranks we have been riding once a week. I love it. He's on a bike, Levi's on a Kent Super Scooter, and Eve's with me. The trick is finding places for them to cruise where they can focus on their riding skills (as opposed to traffic and driveways and not getting squished). And it's kind-of hilly where we live. Micah, being the youngest rider, has not reached that point where it's a thrill to rush down-hill with the wind in his face, so we are keeping our eyes out for fairly level paths.
This week we tried the Paint Branch Trail. The trail follows a pretty large stream, and goes under the nearest big road, so no car issues. We parked in the middle and tried going south first, but there was a massive incline. Micah made it to the top of the first one, pushing his little bike with help from his brother (who actually ditched his scooter halfway up to run back and help). When I saw that it kept going up after that, I turned the boys around.
We went north, and under the bridge which had them shouting with excitement. That direction was far more level and Micah left his fears behind and really started pedalling.
When we made it back to the van we played for a while and then came home to crash. Paint Branch was great - enough people to make you feel safe, but not so many that it was crowded, the stream was peaceful, there was lots of nature to stop and check out, a playground (not on the map though - weird), and no cars. I think I'll figure out a way to tie our picnic blanket on the bike, so we can stay longer...
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