I also joined one of the Camino forums and asked for advice. The results we mixed. Some people think we're crazy, some think it's a great family bonding experience, and although not exactly stated, I think some think we're bad parents, or at least bad pilgrims, for even considering such a thing. However, one former pilgrim gave me hope:
"Having watched The Way movie
I'd go for a 2 year old any time
rather than the sullen 60 year old brat Sheen.
Toddlers are a lot more fun
and rewarding
they eat less
cost nothing for accommodation
don't argue (unnecessarily)
clothes are smaller to wash
will slot in with your early rise and early to bed routine
fit in with the Spanish way of life
will ensure you don't walk in the midday sun
will be admired by all the wrinkly old women in black
will be a great conversation piece
will get you free stuff and access to the front of the queue of about anything"
Let's hope he's right!
Let's hope he's right!
Quick rejoinders; the Camino often conjures up images of large communal sleeping rooms, and one can only imagine a 2-year-old let loose in one ("hi", "hi", "hi", repeat for next 8 hours). Our family are staying in private rooms where Catie will only have up to the five us to interact with nocturnally. We're hopeful, anyway!
ReplyDeleteThe Croozer's main modification is a plywood floor that makes it easier to stand up in. Catie's fully capable of standing up without it, but she stretches out the fabric that makes up the Croozer's nominal "floor." Because it's designed for higher speed activity (jogging, biking, skiing), the occupant is supposed to be strapped in (and therefore not stressing the floor). Catie sees no reason to stay strapped in when we're walking, and has the ability to enforce her will by unbuckling the straps. We also figure her willingness to allow 8 hours of walking a day diminishes rapidly the longer we make her sit.