She conquered the hill.

Anyone who knows Rea knows she is what we affectionately refer to as strong willed, independent, unable to be persuaded, which I know are effective traits to have.

She's been watching her friends all spring conquer the hill in front of our house using the purple balance car...always running behind but never wanting to conquer the ride herself.  My gentle prompting...You can ride on the car too!... didn't do much to persuade.

Tonight, when we weren't looking and least expecting it, she flew down the hill!  And then she did it again and again and again...

I love seeing her take on new challenges and conquer little baby steps, like the big slide at the park or saying a shy hi to a friend she sees at the store.

I want her to know that fears are okay but conquering those fears can be so freeing.  Just like riding down a hill.