I have recently been hiking with my newborn almost every day for a variety of reasons, but mainly because it gives him a really solid nap. The hike isn’t strenuous or very long and I really like the fact that I also get some time in nature.

In the same way that I like to measure my sleep, I also like to see if things are improving with my own fitness as I am chunking through sections of the hike. There are a few switchbacks that line the hike and I have set some milestones to see how quickly I am able to run up them. Some days, I am struggling on the steeper switchbacks and as the newborn is growing (almost a heavy bowling ball at this point), the hike becomes harder in those sections. I remember coming back from his two month old doctor appointment and thinking about how heavy he will be when I go in these hikes. It definitely provided a mental block on being able to blaze up the switch backs, but luckily I have went back to not caring about the bowling ball that is strapped to my chest. I just try to block things about and hold onto him as best I can so he isn’t bobbing up and down too much.

My dog has also been enjoying the hikes. I think he has grown to expect them now and on the days where I am unable to take him, I know he is sad. He is also probably getting spoiled with these hikes because when my paternity leave is over, I don’t think these hikes will be as frequent. I know I’ll feel a bit guilty and hopefully I can find a schedule that works so I can bring him a few times a week. If I could ever wake up early enough, it’s a definite possibility on days where work isn’t starting at the crack of dawn.

I am appreciative of the time I have with my newborn and I love having him wrapped up all cozy when I’m out hiking. It keeps me active, keeps my dog active, gives me time within nature (to de-stress), is a 10/10 cuddle session with my newborn, and gives my newborn a solid nap. I can’t find another activity that checks so many boxes. Hopefully I’ll be able to take him on the hike when he is a bit older so he can see the trail for himself and I’m sure I’ll reminisce about these times as well!