Sonning - Shiplake- Sonning

I used to do something different with my children on weekends. But as my daughter is pretty much independent, that leaves only my son. Usually he is quite happy to come for a walk but today he was really struggling. Or was it me? Anyway, he was crying and arguing but finally still came. That's the thing - once he is out, he loves it. But it does make me wonder, how long more can I put up with this kind of fights before he will decide not to come and there is nothing for me to do to convince him? It makes me sad to think that very soon I will be walking alone...
The problem with walking in summer and choosing the unknown paths is that you never know how well the footpath is used. If it's not much used, it can be quite overgrown and sometimes it can be nettles and bramble - like today.

We actually had to turn around as it was full of nettles and we were both in shorts. There were some tears and me comforting by saying it's really good to get stung by nettles didn't help much. Does anyone know if it is actually good for you or is it just old women talk?

When mum can't help, what else is a better help than Pokemon? He became quite happy after I gave him my phone and he started playing Pokemon Go. I hate that I have to do it, but I guess there has to be some compromise. Yes, I would love if he would be nature- and walking -mad child, but I have to be realistic. How many 11-year old go for walks with their mums? How many go outdoors at all?

The walk was a lot between the fields. Sometimes, like in life you're not certain that you are on the right path. There are turnings and description says take the one on left but you have five turnings. You just have to trust  yourself and believe that whichever path you take, it will be the right one.

Our faithful companion

Taking in the countryside while mum is figuring out which way to go

We had a lovely lunch at the Plowden Arms. Loved their sign:)

There is so much beauty around when you bother going out to the country side. The scenery is breathtaking. But for me it's always the little things. Poppies in the field, red kites in the sky...

It's up to you what you want to see - thorns or flowers!

Last two miles took us along Thames Path. There is something magical for me in water - be it seaside or river bank. And there is always plenty of wildlife too. What a cute family this was!:)

Overall another great walk. Many Pokemons found. I managed to walk barefoot, Summer got to swim. It wasn't too hot and it didn't rain. So many things to be grateful for! Find something to be grateful for every day and you will see how you will become more and more positive.