I learned several important things on this excursion:
1- Virginia in the spring is stunning! I knew it before, but once again I just have to marvel at the beauty of where we live.
2- Taking the kids on a long walk / hike is a great family experience. Why do I ever take them somewhere to sit and be quiet for "fun"? No, good family times are more likely to occur with lots of open space and room to run.
3- My girls are fundamentally different. I must remember that these personality traits are just innate.
Mia cannot, no matter how hard she tries to exercise sufficient self-control, avoid the mud. She must splash; she must feel; she must become a part of the earth. It is how she does life.
Maggie cannot wear pants and cannot tolerate any mess. She must wear a dress, no matter the activity. She will tip-toe around mud puddles and insist on being carried to avoid the chance of spoiling her clothing.
4- Elsie Jane apparently believes she can fly on her own, if she moves her legs and arms quickly enough. Elsie kicked and waved and moved the entire time we were on the trail, while attached to my stomach in her little baby pack. When we finished our hike and I took off her hat she looked up at me with a happy, but astonished expression, as if to say, "Where did you come from, Mom?"
"I've been here all along. What, did you think you were moving on your own?"
5- Never mention treats within earshot of children unless you plan to deliver. There is no backing out once they believe they are going to get ice cream.
1 comment:
Oh how fun. I missed going there in the spring two times. I think we might have gone later but we missed the gorgeous flowers. Your family is darling. Those girls are wonderful and I love how they each have their 'own way' to do things (or not do things). Cute photos too.
Post a Comment