I was typing away at a project on the computer after getting Maggie and Heidi down for naps. I’d been trying to think of ways to get Degen outside more often with little-or-no inconvenience to myself over the last few weeks. Then it hit me–outside, exercise! Degen is now old enough to outrun me any day (considering my out of shapeness). A year ago trying to exercise with any of my kids in tow meant dragging them along or getting jumped on in the middle of a yoga child’s pose. With the girls asleep and Grandpa home to supervise the napping, Degen and I could go outside and exercise. Two birds with one stone and all that jazz came to mind. It’s a big deal to be able to have Degen with me and get something physical done at the same time. A milestone, if you will.

We donned sneakers and walked outside. I’m blessed to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world and three houses down the street is a big ol’ wildlife preserve/open space thingy with relatively well-kept, empty, sunny walking trails. Degen and I hopped on to a trail and walked a bit till we hit a flat, straight section and I told him he could run.

Degen loves to run. He runs laps around our dining/kitchen/living room all the time. We don’t let him run as often as we think we should. So, I felt really good about letting him run as long and fast and far as he wanted. And I felt a little bad that he kept stopping and turning to ask if he’d gone too far (not complaining about his carefulness, just feel a little guilty for limiting him). But yesterday he got to run as much as he wanted, as far as he wanted, and as fast as he wanted. His joy was apparent as he paused to yell back to his slower mother about the bird he could see in a bush or the “river” (irrigation ditch) or cow or whatever. I was excited when he told me he didn’t want to go home because he wanted to “explore” some more. Exploring is something I understand and want to encourage.

He probably ran (and I walked) about two miles. If we do it more often maybe I’ll be able to keep up with him. I’d like to be able to run like him. And I like spending time outside with him. Thanks for the fun, Degen!