Ready Set Hike

This weekend felt like the first weekend of Fall as I was reaching for my fleece and cozying up to a fire. The leaves are turning and the air smells like smoky pine. I was out in the country with my parents and favorite hunk of a brother who made me laugh until I was crying and doubling over. We did everything from drive around, have a dance party, watch movies and, wait for it, played football! Yes, this Bear played football for the first time in 8 years. Since having back surgery and learning how to "be" in my new body, I have remained hesitant to do anything that might cause any added discomfort. But today, the chill in the air and a new found movement between my shoulder blades made me itch to feel the white stitching gently roll away from my palm.

Okay, Okay. Before you get the wrong impression let me clarify a few things. When I say "play" football, I really mean catch between myself, my father, my brother and a football. And when I say that I have been itching to get back out on the field, well its not like I used to play every weekend before my new back and have felt deprived ever since. But there is something very satisfying after you watch the football leave your hand and go swirling into the air. After not being able to do many of the simple things in life like playing football or running after your not so little brother, I am overjoyed at the fact when I am able to now. I was feeling so normal in fact that I surprised myself and did three cartwheels in a row! I was like a little kid who is excited to show off his ability at playing catch. "Look at me! Look at me!" was what my head was saying to my heart. And through all of the giggles, the scene was even more hysterical because I would miss a catch and waddle over to get the ball all the while my father and brother watched me with smiles on their faces.

This cub is learning the ropes and enjoying every minute of it.