Urban hiking

Jennifer and I took our toddlers out on the town. We went downtown to hear an amazing woman speak, and thought it would be fun, and a great political statement, to bring our children as well. (She had spoken of the marginalization of children while being interviewed that day).

We drove downtown, found amazing parking **right by the venue**. Our little ones were so excited to be holding our hands and walking to the show... and it was sold out.

Alexa and S. were quite amped by the new experience and were not (at all) interested in waiting in front with the other devotees. They wanted to keep exploring. As we weren't in the safest place to wander, we bundled back in the car (Alexa ~ major car seat protest, disappointment at the short excursion), and drove to a mellower place to visit and let the children explore.

The first coffee shop was crowded, and walking to the car we realized that this area was perfect for Toddler Urban Hiking. They ran up and down little paths, and climbed stairs, and walked up and down ramps. They had a blast. They also found a little rockery area. Alexa is obsessed with rock climbing. A little goat, she is a climber, and when she sees a small boulder is adamant she reach the top.

When we actually found a little coffee shop (only two blocks, and an hour of toddler hiking from the first), Jennifer and I were tired. It was fun to get out of our zone, though, and Alexa slept quite soundly when we got home.

I realized that this was the first "non-family visit" evening adventure I had gone on with Alexa. Andy and I do not go out in the evening with our toddler. In some ways, it's a lot of work to go to public places with children, but it's not undo-able, particularly with only one.

I also think a little work can go a long way. A. learns community by experiencing life, culture and community... or so goes the thought...

I've been loving the blog question format, so this is mine. What is the most memorable place you remember visiting as a child, or taking your own child to? Or, in deeper thought, do you feel children are marginalized?