Let’s Inspire our Kids: Running on the Juan De Fuca Trail to Mystic Beach

I remember before we had kids, standing on the beach at Cathedral Cove in New Zealand, trying to convince myself to go for a swim in the ocean.  It was hard, because I am a total wuss when it comes to cold water.  I liked the idea of going in, but wasn’t so stoked about how it would feel.  Though I had yet to experience motherhood, I had a very strong thought that I must go in because I didn’t want to be a Mum that sat on the sidelines.  One that observed, but didn’t want to get involved, get dirty (or cold, or wet or __________).  I wanted to be the Mum that took a risk to have some fun and make a memory or two.

Now that I am a Mum to five kids, I am conscious that I can easily sit out an activity.  I’m tired.  Or I want a few minutes of peace.  Or I would rather indulge my photography passion and hide behind the lens.

Today I was amazed at the kids’ enthusiasm to ‘copy’ a couple of us Mum’s.

I love to run trails in new locations.  It is one of the things that I enjoy most about travelling.  I had a hope that I could run the length of the Juan De Fuca trail.  For family and travel logistics, that wasn’t going to work.  But I at least wanted to run a little piece of it.  I convinced my friend to join me.  She isn’t even a runner!  We set off at a trot, leaving the Dad’s and kids to walk the trail to Mystic Beach which was about 3km along the trail that we were running.

We ran a few kilometers out and back, and returned to Mystic Beach where the gang had been playing for a couple of hours on this very cool rope swing.

When it was time to leave the big kids wanted to run back the 3kms to the car.  Sure!  Why not?!  I loved that they were so determined and proud, and I like to think that it was because seeing their mothers set off earlier in the day inspired them to get their tush moving too.  I think kids expect their Dad’s to be involved, but it’s extra cool when us Mum’s are brave & strong, and our kids get to learn from us about pushing past obstacles and persevering.

None of them had footwear to run.  I dubbed them the ‘flip-flop running club’ as they jumped logs and dodged roots and ran like gazelle’s through the trees.

So I challenge you Mum’s today, to take a deep breath and go inspire your kids.  It will make them smile and you will feel pretty awesome in the process too!! Promise 🙂