Natural Adaptation

The variation of the first few days has been like an assortment of colourful pick n mix: From cycle paths and beaches, to busy roads and lay by’s, to the packed pavements and buzzing energy of the big city.

Day one began in a relaxed manner with an undertone of anticipation and excitement. The final adjustments were made to the packing, the straps were tightened on the newly acquired trailer, the laces tied and the bicycle helmets clicked …the first strides of our open ended journey were taken.

It was a leisurely stroll out of town and with each step the atmosphere became increasingly peaceful. A scenic cycle path allowed the kilometers to pass joyfully as the kids cruised along on their bikes whooping with glee.

An opportunity to stop and play on the beach was grabbed by their little hands and the first time out was taken. Sun, sand, sea and smiles; things were feeling good!

After enough time had passed to satisfy digging fingers and paddling toes, a beautiful spot was scouted to spend the night and as the camp was built and dusk fell, the moon began to glisten romantically on the water.

The day of cycling, roaming and playing, resulted in two tired content bodies welcoming sleep at the conclusion of bedtime stories.

The goal on the second morning was to continue moving forward before the heat of the day. By half past nine, the camp was broken down, feet were stomping and the wheels were rolling.

However, not long into the day it became clear that roads would dictate the pace with minimal opportunity to explore for the little adventurers. Trying to cover some distance before the sun started beating down, transpired to a full day of walking with just one roadside stop. The kids accepted the situation without concern and took the opportunity to enjoy a long nap in the stroller sandwiched by some singing and mild sibling bickering, whilst Arian and I simply kept on trucking.

Over twenty kilometers later and with nightfall rapidly approaching the need to build camp was increasing. Never failing to deliver, Arian found a spot that would suffice for the night…it just meant sharing with the current occupants…a small tribe of mosquitos. With no alternatives in the vicinity, Arian erected the tent with expert swiftness whilst the kids took shelter in the stroller and I kept them entertained. As soon as the ‘house’ was ready, the kids were tucked in and any intruders evicted immediately.

The long day was followed by a late night and it was dark before tiny eyelids surrendered.

Despite the challenges of day two, the mood in the camp remained calm. Take charge of what we can control and accept everything we can’t. Arian switched to military efficiency taking care of the logistics (setting up camp, cooking, cleaning and security) and I tended to the kids whilst managing to keep my cool with the later than desired bedtime.

Only two days in and we seemed to be naturally working with our strengths and consequently becoming a pretty nifty team.

Appreciating that the previous day had offered little excitement for keen explorers, the decision was made to make day three a play day with no desire to cover any distance.

We entered the big city and welcomed the offerings of play areas with temporary friends and parks with courts to kick, throw and bounce…it WAS worth carrying the football around with us after all!

The park also provided a space for a make shift kitchen and Arian whipped up another culinary delight whilst the children bossed me around the courts.

After tea, it was time to say farewell to the city and find our base for the night. The location presented itself gracefully and after a playful day, we all settled in for an early night.

Reflecting on the introductory days, the adventure appears to be what we felt it would be during the planning process; aligned for us as individuals and as a family.  The days are rolling by with ease, lightness and enjoyment and the children are adapting naturally.

There are of course moments of disagreement between the kids, however no more than in a home environment and what you would expect from young siblings, and inevitably they get tired, hungry or grumpy…again, just like they would anywhere.

As we continue to find out groove, Arian and I share appreciative glances and understanding smiles knowing that at this moment in time, we are exactly where we need to be doing exactly what we need to be doing.