Day 15: Take a hike...

...really a stroll will do, at this point.

As fall descends on New England, and I regain my strength, I have started playing with taking the baby around the block in the ergo. These strolls are slower and shorter than I would ever have tolerated as a form of exercise pre-pregnancy. Instead, they are a form of meditation.

I relish the warmth radiating from my baby's tiny body against my chest (lesson learned: wear a high cut shirt so the babe isn't triggered by skin-to-skin and start rooting), in contrast with the cool air. I note the heaviness of each footfall as I pace the block. Over time, I recognize new details about the neighborhood- a fledgling apple tree with a single apple, a neighbor I had yet to meet, a set of tiny orange lanterns alongside a driveway. Sometimes I can smell the sharpness of the ocean, and other times the acrid leaf decay.

These walks are so rejuvenating, for her and me. We often go on them impromptu, when her goblin howls escalate and we need to change scenery.

I encourage you to hit the pavement, trails, and sandy beaches to stroll, opening all your senses to your surroundings.