Chasing the Train

Normally during this time of year, I don't go to the malls as a rule. They are crowded and hot and people are never in the holiday spirit. I did, however, make an exception this year since it's been freezing cold and I do need to get in some exercise. So, as we shopped for Christmas presents in a half-hearted way at the Towne Center Mall, I stopped at Victoria's Secret to get some new pajamas. Hunter decided to be a big helper and carried my bag out of the store. I think he was more relieved to go than anything and was willing to haul the bag nearly his size just to get out of the there.

As we left the store and rounded the corner, hearing quiet comments about how I'm training him up early to carry bags, the train went by. Now, they don't have a little train that rides on a track and goes in circles, it's a real conductor driven train that goes all over the mall. Hunter took one look at this thing and took off after it, running as fast as he could carrying my shopping bag with me toddling behind him with all of the rest of our stuff. After about 20 yards of hard running, he stopped and looked at me, put the bag down and took off at full speed again. I managed to scoop it up and increased my stride to keep up with me.

He ran more than half the length of the mall chasing this train and insisted we take a ride once we got there. I totally caved and climbed into the first empty car with him. After speed walking across the mall, carrying heavy bags and coats, I deserved a chance to sit down and relax for a few minutes. Hunter was so pleased to wave out at everyone as we rode around and promptly threw a tantrum when I wouldn't shell another $6 for a ride. Good behavior can't last forever but the picture of the giant smile he gave me while we took our ride will. Too bad I can't get the pics from my phone onto the computer.