chickenfickle

We took the kids to Great America yesterday. Mostly it was what I expected-bad food, long lines, inappropriate clothing. We did some rides, ate, went to the waterpark, more rides. As we were getting ready to leave, the kids wanted to do one last ride. We had passed it earlier and at first, I said no because it was an additional fee. I was mad that some of the attractions weren’t included in the cost of our tickets (hadn’t we spent enough?) but I gave in. I forked over $20 for The Girl, #2 and Husband to do the Ropes Course.

They lined up and waited. When it was their turn, the attendant strapped them into the harnesses and they climbed the stairs. From there, they walked the beams, the ropes, the wiggly steps. Husband went along because he thought #2 would need help. But Mr. 5 year-old didn’t. He left his dad behind and went after his sister. Who left him behind. Occasionally, they would stop to wave at me on the ground below or to make sure Daddy was still alive but otherwise, they were fine on their own.

I couldn’t believe how good they were. How sure of themselves. I would have been scared to be so high up, walking on a beam. I watched my daughter run across one without any ropes. She didn’t even blink but when she made it to the other side, I could see the look of satisfaction on her face. She had done it. All by herself.

A few times, #2 had a little trouble with his rope. I watched as he pulled and pulled and it was stuck. Just when I thought he might need help, he’d give one last yank it would be free and so would he. He’d be off to the next obstacle on the course, much like he and his sister (and eventually little brother) will be off to face the obstacles in their lives. Without us to help them. Sure, we’ll be here and when they look around, we’ll wave and offer assistance but they’ll be on their own.

As I stood holding THAT BABY and watching my two oldest making their way around the course, I was filled with joy that they were able to do it. And, I admit, a little sad, too. They are growing up and don’t need us as much (although #2 still can’t take off his socks and turn them the right way, makes me nuts when I have to do laundry.) He’ll be in kindergarten this year and The Girl goes off to second grade. I’ve still got the little one at home but in two weeks, the house will be so quiet.

But I’m not worried. It’s good to know that they know the ropes.