superseded?

Last week we (using the term loosely, my involvement was minimal) mustered, preg tested some cows and weaned their calves. Because it was school holidays, and I had other things I had to do, the kids went and "helped" dad.

I had to go and help get the cows into the laneway one afternoon, but Kate had it all sorted with her dad, once the fast riding was done she was going to jump on my motorbike and take over coming down the laneway at a more sedate pace.  This was her first solo four wheeler adventure, and she was very excited about it all.

So was I. I got to drive home two hours earlier than I would normally, and sitting behind a mob of cows walking down a laneway isn't all that exciting when you've a. done it MANY times before b. got many other things that could be getting done and c. the weather was a bit chilly.

Here she is, keeping her eye on the job. More or less.

Mum in the toyota behind her though, was causing a bit of concern. I have yet to run over a child, although one of them claims I once ran over a cow. (I did not, I just gave it a gentle bump to persuade it to move in the direction I wanted it to. Unfortunately, it tripped over!)

My offsider in the ute quickly abandoned ship and went for a ride with dad while he could...

      Eventually I was able to get past the mob, and went on my merry way home (collecting the boy child on my way) reflecting on this momentous day, the day when mum starts to become superseded, in the off-siding stakes at least.

I THINK its a happy day?

But so far none beats that other happy day when I realised they were able to open and shut gates unaided!

I am pretty sure that one is on a par with the event of toilet training!