Hiking on her own

Over the past two years, we took walks in the park with a child strapped to our chest or steering clear of unpaved roads and using a stroller.  My back couldn't wait to have her walking on her own, it's tough hiking with an extra 15 pounds strapped to your front in 85+ degree weather. She was barely aware of, let alone able to participate in, her surroundings in the past.  When we took our first hike of the year, it was surprising to watch her explore without any assistance or regard to our whereabouts.

As we walked through the nature trails of one of our favorite parks, she talked about the trees, the leaves, the mud, the snakes ("Sssss!"), and the bugs (or bees as she kept calling them).

She walked ahead of us, she walked behind us, she was in her own world.  It was incredible to see such a difference from one year ago.  I suppose the fact that she's mastered walking (and running) had a lot to do with it, but still, it's incredible to see.

The only difficulties she came across were small bridges over water (which was more our trust issues than her issues) and roots sticking up in the path.   When we saw a big root coming up we'd all shout "root!" and by the end of the walk she mastered hills, roots, and mud.  She was hiking like pro.

Although it was wonderful to watch our little girl take on the great big world all by herself, I have to admit it stung a little to see her embrace her independence.  Sure she has started to dress and undress herself, she can put her shoes on (and off) on her own, she is starting to take on stairs (up and down) while we stand by nervously, but it's sad to watch her need us less and less.

We had a great day, despite the last 15 minutes that she quit walking and would only settle for "Mommy!" to hold her. Passing on something we have always really enjoy doing together and sharing it with her in a new ways was totally worth the back pain.

"Song of the Entry"

Paper Planes (cover) by The Da Vincis