The Climb

The bars felt cold on her hands, making them ache as she worked to pull herself up. She wanted to thrust her hands into her pockets, away from the cold, but knew even the tiniest misstep could result in a slip. Finally, Anna reached the peak and slung her legs in front of her, only her firm grip on the vertical handles holding her in place. “Mom!” Anna yelled, “Watch me!” As Anna cautiously released her grip, she felt the weight of her legs pull the rest of her body downwards, and a grin spread across her face.