Piper hiked to her first waterfall today. It was a little more than a mile up an incline. She was brave and tough the whole way. Every step came with a new challenge.
“Mom, can I run ahead?”
“Yes, with your Sissy or a cousin.”
“Mom, can I climb the rocks, too?”
“They’re slippery. Be careful.”
Then came the big one.
“I don’t want to just look at it,” Piper said. “I want to go in the waterfall!”
Of course you do. But it’s dangerous. And I’m scared you’ll get hurt. “Promise you’ll hold my hand?” I compromised, taking her hand in mine. I held on tight, but not too tight.
Together, with the help of an aunt, an uncle, and four cousins, we took Piper down to the base of this:
When we reached the pools of clear water, Piper peeled off her shoes and socks and went in. “Ah! Cool mountain water!” she yelled over the rush of the falls. She sounded like a commercial for the tourism board. She splashed with delight. She dipped her feet deeper. Then she stuck her head in.
As we climbed out of the waterfall, Piper was pretty proud of herself. So was I. She stopped at the base of the mountain and took a deep breath. “Ah! Cool mountain air!” she proclaimed. And it was.
piperism 
Adventurous one – good for her.
She’s brave! And crazy. It’s a perfect mix. I feel so honored to be in Piper’s presence sometimes. When she’s courageous, I take notes.
You are a good mom to let her adventure–this will stand her in good stead as she grows up
Thanks. That means a lot. I can be a bit of a helicopter, but Piper has mostly cured me 🙂
I still am a helicopter mom and my kids are 21 and 26 – but I try to hide it now
That isn’t Looking Glass falls by chance is it? Looks so familiar. I have relatives in the Asheville area, and have visited several waterfalls. Glad you are enjoying your travels.
I’ve hiked Looking Glass and it does look similar, but this one is actually inside Chimney Rock Park right outside of Hendersonville. Looking Glass is better for swimming. Any waterfall and any moment near Asheville works for me. North Carolina is so dreamy!