We got to go anywhere we wanted, the rule was that we weren’t allowed to go alone but there were 6 of us living next door to a family of 10 so being alone was actually a hard thing to do and of course, we had to have permission.
We went to the park, to the pool, the movies and downtown, to our friend’s houses.... When we were older we walked to school sporting events.
It was pretty much the same with us except we lived in a rural area in the middle of nowhere.
My oldest Brother liked to “go exploring” which was nothing more or less than us going on hikes. We had a great old dog who would always lead and who would find any snakes before we got to them.
I did not like to go unarmed. I had a .22 rifle but for some reason did not carry it. Probably too heavy. I had watched “Robin Hood” and noticed some of his merry men carried staffs so I always had one with me. Actually I still always carry one when hiking.
It was great times. Mother would lean out the door and call when Dinner (lunch to many of you), or Supper was ready.
Same. We were definitely “free range kids”. And yea, I hate that term. I had 3 brothers. Next door neighbors were 4 boys. Down the street were 2 brothers and next door to them were 3 brothers. So, we had some great ballgames! As I look back though, I kinda think my parents were a little too...lenient? Maybe Mom was just glad to have us out of the house? Whatever. I wouldn’t change it for the world. Had a fantastic time growing up. Making your own decisions, and mistakes, I think really helps you as you grow into your late teens and twenties and on up in life. If you have someone telling you what to do and when and how to do it all the time, then when you finally have to make your own decisions you don’t have enough experience to do it.
Know what I mean?