With an escape artist, slash runner, in the family; we are always on our toes.  However, this weekend Alex seemed to be doing good.

• Friday - he went to the library and then to the park.  While at the park he did very nicely staying in the barked area.
• Saturday - we went to a fenced park but also road bikes in the unfenced parking lot.  Alex stayed near and responded nicely to reminders to stay near.
• Saturday - we went to the McDonald's in town.  Alex can not eat the food.  But he loves to play with the kids on the indoor gym.  He did very well.
• Saturday - we also went to the store.  Alex stayed with me.  He pushed the cart. Never did he give any indication that he want to run at all.
• Sunday - Matt & Alex put bark in the backyard flowerbeds.  Alex helped his daddy get the bark and spread it out.  He never tried to wander away while the gate was opened (daddy was right with him).  He stayed close, listened, engaged and followed directions.

BUT JUST IN CASE WE FORGOT.... "ALEX IS A RUNNER".....
he decided to remind us (or me).  Feeling over confident in Alex's abilities, I took the boys to the water park with Nana (and his cousins).  For the first 30 to 40 minutes Alex did well.  I was on high alert but he was doing well.

Then he started testing his boundaries. 

1. The first time he did not go far.  Just decided to investigate a nearby party.  I redirected him and watched him more closely.
2. The Second time he decided to go for a little run but when I called he stopped and came back.  I again redirected him and told him if he did not stay with us we would have to leave.
3. The Third time he ran and did not stop until he hit the end of the path and I had caught up with him.

I hoisted Alex over my shoulder as he threw himself to the ground and proceeded back to Nana and our things.  I was officially corrected in confidence about Alex's running (wandering, elopement) getting better. 

Alex screamed and cried the whole the way to the car.  Onlookers clearly thinking I am a horrible parent that can not control my child. 

Humiliated, tail between my legs I went home defeated by a six year old.

AAA AH, the joys of parenthood :-)