Adeline the Brave

I posted this picture on Wednesday of my sweet girl. Now, I need to tell you the story behind the picture. Our friends, the Hollingers, came for a visit Labor Day weekend (I know it's October...don't judge me). We took them to Watkin's Park for the day. Adeline was in a habit of being afraid of any and all new activities. Patrick decided we needed to make her go for a pony ride. We realized this may not go well. She may go into full 2 year old tantrum mode.

Gabriella went first and paved the way for success.

There were two "guides" leading two horses around the track. One was a regular teenager in jeans and a t-shirt. We waited through an extra kid because I just needed Adeline's pony picture to be with the guy with the feather hat. I mean, really....

She said no, but she didn't throw a fit when daddy put her on the horse. I know it doesn't look like she's having fun, but trust me...she is.

At the end, she was so proud of herself. She talked about the horse for days and wanted to tell everyone about what she did. Daddy was oh so right...

On our previous trip to Watkins Park, Adeline would not, under any circumstances, ride on the merry-go-round. She just wanted to watch. Since I already forced her onto a hayride and train ride that day, I decided it really wasn't the time to push my luck. Today was different. I mean, if she could ride a real horse, this should be easy! She still said no. I put her on the horse. She loved it!

Then we went to the playground. No convincing needed here. She's in her element....