These Shoes Were Made for Walking.

The cool weather afforded a great incentive to go out to explore the Kepa Bush this afternoon. It was about an hour's walk with several flights of stairs on an undulating terrain.

We spotted tui, silver fern and a 300 year old native tree along the way. Val came along too and I think it was a game changer. No complaints from the children at all, and our big girl found a kindred spirit in her.. They brought up the rear and took their time pointing out the sights and sounds.

Watching a tui eat berries in a tree

Not to be outdone, our little lady asked to get down from my back and walk towards the end. With great focus, she navigated the stairs and made it to the carpark. Victory! 

        Our little man was in his element. 

Val declares herself our official family photographer. :) 

This evening, our big boy upset one of his friends when he was a little too insistent in his quest for a hug (physical touch is a big love language of his). She ran home to hide in the end.

We got him to write her a letter of apology and apologise in person. 

Over fish and chips, Papa took the lead in discussing the importance of boundaries and respect for the opposite sex. Because it was relevant, he touched a little on puberty as well. It was an engaging discussion that had our big girl leaning in to contribute as well.

Upon reflection, I'm grateful that he thought it important to discuss respect/boundaries/puberty with our children. Besides being a strong male role model for our son, he's also managed to weave puberty conversation into everyday conversation with his open, matter-of-fact approach. A few laugh out loud moments definitely kept it light but meaningful.