We spent Sunday afternoon with some good friends, gallivanting throughout the woods near our house at the Schenectady County Plotter Kill Preserve.  This large park offers miles of hiking trails that meander through various valleys along the Plotter Kill and offer breathtaking views of high cliffs and waterfalls.  It was a great opportunity for us to see the changing foliage and to think about the dooming Winter on its way.

Maddie had no problem leading the way for us all through the various ponds and puddles. Our biggest surprise was our little hiker who, having forgone his afternoon nap, was full of energy ready to take on the hike.  Strapped to mom, we took off through the woods and on to the first waterfall where we stopped to rest.  18 pounds has never felt so heavy!

After a few miles of hiking we decided it was best to call it a day and we turned back.  At this point Jenn had taken a break and the heavy load was shifted to my back.  After a few minutes of hiking I felt a big thump on my shoulder followed by heavy snoring.  Unbelievably, the little guy fell asleep.  Now, I’ve never been accused of being overly graceful in the woods (or anywhere else for that matter) but no worries, Ryan could care less.  I spent the last mile and a half walking as if someone had kicked me in the groin.  It turns out, it feels more like someone kicked me in the lower back.  But really the pain of a sleepless baby remains significantly more painful than any lower back pain.  

We had a great time and we built some confidence with our little tyke.  I could see the Adirondacks in our future….though I think we might rent a Sherpa.