We have some big pine trees up here. And now that we have a hiker, we got to go to the Estivant Pines!
Saturday was pretty glorious, so B and I hopped on our motorcycle and pedaled up Manganese Road. We met our darling Esa at the beaver pond on the way up and pedaled the rest of the way together.
I wasn't sure how Braeden would feel in a new forest. Would he be intimidated by the trees or a new trail system? How would he feel about the terrain?
My worries were moot.
B sat on a log while Esa and transformed from bikers to hikers. "Ready to hike?" I asked the little guy.
"Yep!" he shouted and sprang up, leading the way. He was fully in charge like he built the place. What a little man.
He announced all the bridges and fallen trees for us. He told us which order we should walk in across the bridges. He is a true leader, but he can also be a bit bossy at times. Ha! We play along.
B picked the Cathedral Loop to the right, so right we went.
I was hoping he would make it on his own two feet the whole way. He had a snack half way through the loop, but he sat down to play in the leaves a couple times.
We saw three other couples that day. What a treat! B made sure to meet the people who were not on a mission. (I am trying to teach him the difference between people who want to stop and talk and people who are busily on their way.)
People give him energy, so he carried on for a bit.
He even got to follow the leader!
Overall, he did pretty great, and we all had a good time! We were so grateful to be in such a sacred place in the fall sunshine.
But alas, the little man wanted a ride out of the woods. Luckily we were on the downward slope by then. Esa and I took turns giving shoulder rides.
It is pretty eye-opening to see how Breaden takes charge in new territory. I don't think it matters where we are... if we are hiking, he somehow knows the way and will announce the terrain changes.
I can see this roll over to other parts of his life. It makes my heart swell to see him be so bold and confident. Even though he is small in stature, he has a big heart, big ambition and a strong will.
Maybe he can offer nature tours someday. Hikes with Brady P... hmmm... sounds like a winner to me. As long as someone has snacks!
Here's to your next adventure!
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