This year, both of my kids are at the same school super close to our home — which is why I decided it would be a good idea to take advantage and walk to school everyday. Sounds simple until you realize that school is up the mountain from our house. And I’m not exaggerating when I say “mountain.” It’s a solid 0.5 miles of straight incline on our 0.7-mile walk to school every single day.
I know this number precisely because my kids remind me — every. single. morning. The complaints usually start around step 87. So, to distract from the grumbling, we play games: counting our steps, seeing who can run up the incline fastest (spoiler alert: it’s never me), or spotting the first worm of the day.
At drop-off, people often ask how we’ve managed to stick with walking for over 50 school days — almost every morning except one rainy day and one sick day. The truth? It’s become a rhythm. A ritual, even. And these five things have made all the difference:
1. We don’t make driving an option.
Driving is simply off the table. We walk — even when we’re running late (which just means everyone is running up the mountain).
2. Everyone packs their own essentials.
Snacks, water, homework — everyone has a job. It’s part of the morning flow, and it teaches them responsibility (and saves me from hearing “Mom, you forgot my water bottle!” halfway up the hill).
3. No sleeping in — even if they look angelic.
Yes, they look adorable all curled up, but consistency wins. Everyone’s up by the same time every school day, no negotiations. Bonus: thanks to the time change, we’re currently awake way before the sun anyway.
4. Keep breakfast simple.
We save the “Pinterest-perfect” meals for dinner. Morning food is quick, healthy, and uncomplicated. Think bagels, fruit, or yogurt — because the last thing anyone needs before a mountain climb is a cooking crisis.
5. Enjoy the walk — really.
Some mornings are chaotic, some are sweet, and some are just… steep. But I try to make the most of it. We hold hands when they reach for me. We talk about the clouds, the sun, or the smell of the trees after a drizzle. Sometimes we listen to a kids’ news podcast. It’s messy and magical all at once — a little slice of togetherness before the day unfolds.
By the time we reach the school gates, we’re out of breath, a little sweaty, but oddly happy. And while I can’t say I love every uphill step, I do love the memories we’re making — one climb, one laugh, one deep breath at a time.
Because sometimes, the journey to school isn’t just about getting there — it’s about growing stronger, closer, and maybe just a little more grateful for the view from the top.
Always Have, Always Will ~ Kalie