So, yesterday I tried

to do my best Brian Merklein imitation. Child in a pack on my back, trying to do some yard clean up. I've seen Brian cut new trails with one of his kids in that position. Brian back and forth, bending, cutting, raking, his son bouncing back and forth smiling. Yup, Sam and I are a long way from that at this point. At least we got to talk to some neighbors and clean up the numerous land mines that our two canines leave behind. Went well for about 35 minutes or so before the fussing started. Went about five minutes more before I went back in the house. A little bit more each time and I figure we'll be ready for short family hikes soon.