Resilience. Wisdom. Perseverance. Strength.

 

We walked through a canopy of wild bushes covered in fragrant white flowers. The air smelled like Jasmine flowers. It was cool in the shade of the wild bushes and large pine trees as we descended Sterling Pass. All four boys made the arduous climb to the top of the pass, not once but twice since it was an out-and-back trail. We hiked from Oak Creek Canyon to Vulte Arch and beyond. I was so proud of these incredible men because they had to push past their comfort several times and in many ways. 

Madigan can officially out-hike me in speed (and almost in stamina). He has strengthened his lungs so much that he has overcome any symptoms he used to have of exercise-induced asthma. He was incredible with Lochlan yesterday; Lochlan started fussing pretty obnoxiously about half way up the steep incline to the top. Madigan started asking him questions. He would ask things like: What color is that flower? Who is our smallest horse? Who are our girl dogs? Who's your favorite dog? Do you have 10 toes or 10 noses? He came up with questions for over 30 minutes. It distracted Lochlan completely and he didn't fuss anymore. 

Declan coached Kelton all the way up, encouraging him to take deep breaths, not whine because it uses more energy to do so and to keep taking small rests to give his body a break. Declan showed infinite patience with Kelton and I know Kelton made it up that incredibly challenging pass because he had such wise guidance and support. Declan has his famous, laid back swagger, hatchet strung carelessly to his hip, pants ripped in some places or another and most likely unbuttoned because... well, just because. He is quick with his smile, always pointing out the smells of the forest which overwhelm and delight us and he simply never complains. EVER! 

Lochlan has the most amazing stamina. We can all be out of breath and that guy is barely struggling. He did get really frustrated twice: while ascending the slope going in and then when he got thirsty and ran out of water when we were almost out of the canyon. Both times he was understandably uncomfortable. Yet, with the help of his brothers engaging him in ideas he set aside his discomfort and powered on. The strength I see in him, the self mastery, the ability to do what is difficult... it brings tears to my eyes. He's a fabulous human and every day he's BECOMING... 

Kelton showed resilience and perseverance in a very real struggle. He can very easily work himself into a state of panic when he feels out of breath, too hot, or looks up and sees a mountain looming ahead of himself. He is learning to focus, breathe deeply, rest appropriately, and take the next step; all important life lessons, I believe. On the way up the pass on the way back, he said, "Mom, this has been an incredible experience. I've loved this trail, and what I've learned. Thank you for taking us out on these adventures." 

I know I won't always be able to adventure thus; each memory is tucked away tightly and I hold these days like the treasures of old. 

I found some wild spearmint next to the creek, so we came home and made spearmint/blueberry sun tea. :-)