There are so many children wandering around in helmets. Some have pedal bikes but many have balance bikes, without pedals. Either way, there are often children scooting by with or without wheels, in helmets.

Today I was standing behind one little cutie in the drug store. She was humming to herself and her adult was speaking kindly in German about how she needed to wait in line, etc. I observed this and appreciated what I could, and she moved around while I was chatting with Ben. When I turned back I managed to smack her squarely in her helmeted noggin with the shampoo I was trying to buy. Just, klunk! I of course made a terrified noise, but the kid went on humming along, and her adult was delighted: “That’s why she wears a helmet! People just hit her. Everyday.”

I have no idea if that kid had a bike waiting outside or not.