Put two of the kids together and it's usually ok. They'll play together or separately. They'll talk. They can compromise and agree. But something strange happens when they're all together. Two will gang up on the third. They stick to their guns and refuse to give in. Just when I have it figured out alliances shift. It's like a three way Thunderdome.

So when only two of the kids want to go on an adventure it's sometimes easier. Not a third easier like the linear math says it should be, but way easier.

Lilly was the first one to express an interest in rock climbing earlier in the Spring. She got her first taste on a rope on the REI pinnacle and loved it. With everything else that's gone on this summer we haven't had a chance to get back to it. Even though we'd returned from our Great Oregon Geology Roadtrip (because every big trip needs a name) just a few days earlier, Lilly and Henry were up for a climbing opportunity at the local rock.

Actually, I think it was primarily Lilly that was ready to go, but Henry has been a bit competitive lately. Probably due to some sisterly teasing referring to him as the "baby boy" and "little Henry." Not nice, but motivating to be sure.

Lilly went first and scampered up the rock without any problems. Henry suited up climbed next. He chose the same route Lilly had, which might have been a mistake. She's just a touch taller and that let her reach past a dearth of holds down low. He struggled until finally getting a finger or two and hoisting himself up. He made it nearly to the top before deciding he was done. Lilly crushed another route and then we were done.

What I liked most about the experience was not seeing Lilly climbing so naturally or Henry trying his hardest. In spite of all the other distractions, both of them watched the other and cheered them on while they climbed. It's always so gratifying to see them building their sibling relationships. When I'm too old to lead them on adventures they'll need each other.

Plus, if they stay friends they can help carry my stuff up mountains for years to come.