The Fearless Wonder.

I often wonder if childhood fearlessness is a genetic thing. If so, then my daughter certainly takes after me. Or at least, the way that I was as a child.

I remember frequent trips to the emergency room, lots of stitches and never quite enough sense knocked into me in the process. I loved climbing trees and jumping off of rooftops with my brother. We were terrible, dare-devilish children and I imagine we drove my mother absolutely crazy.

She tells me that I have a lot of karma coming my way with Jiana. So far, I’m beginning to see the truth in that statement.

We went to Phillipe Park in Safety Harbor this afternoon for an amazing cook-out hosted by one of Jorge’s co-workers. (Thank you Ms. Pat!) Jiana was STOKED to go and play on the slides and in the dirt. She became especially enamored with the “CAD-A-PIDDER” (yes, that’s catepillar in two-year-old speak), though I’m not exactly sure if that’s what this thing was supposed to be.

She also ate her FIRST mouthful of dirt while trying to play soccer with some of the boys. Completely and utterly UN-PHASED, mind you, she got right back up again and wanted to keep going. She landed face-first, and was covered from head toe. So funny!

Here are a few snaps from her high-climbing adventure. Too bad I didn’t snap the mouthful of sand picture. I was busy trying to be the good mom, and get it all washed out somewhat expeditiously. Dangit!

If only we could all take such enormous pleasure in the little things, the way that children do.

Keep smiling…