For the Love of Spring!

Spring is a time for new beginnings...buds on the trees, grass slowly turning green, flowers popping up and blooming. It begins looking dirty, muddy, and gloomy but soon becomes a temptation, luring us out to enjoy the fresh breeze and sunshine on our faces.

This past weekend spring showed it's face. We were given warmer temperatures that melted ALMOST all the snow away. The sun was shining and my boys begged to head outside. I knew it was spring because they were occupied with bubbles for almost 45 minutes.

I now realize that pulling out the yard toys should be done slowly. They almost seem new to the kids. So why not take advantage of that.   They did bubbles for 45 minutes and then we got out some bikes.  Henry called his "motorcycle" and Charley gave his bike a good run.  I have a feeling that this summer the bike will be big on Charley's outside to do list.

Spring is a time when I think about my role as a parent and how I can incorporate the outdoors into our daily life...will it be to distract from the late afternoon 'bewitching' hour. Or will it wear us out for naps and quiet time in the afternoon. It is easier to make quick spur of the moment plans with friends by meeting at the park.   Hikes, walks, parks, picnic tables, hammocks, bikes, scooters, docks for fishing, exploring in the woods...the list is endless.

Spring also brings the ring of dirt in the bathtub - which has been missing since November!  It means clothing is stained with mud and grass stains.  Shoes are caked with mud and sand pours from them abundantly.  Knees get skinned and hands are visibly dirty!  Spring leaves it's mark. 

Spring has sprung - and yet, I know that here in Minnesota we might get one more big blast of winter.  But it will melt quickly and soon enough - it will be here to stay!

My favorite part of spring is this:

A comfy chair in the sun, my phone, a good book, the sound of my two boys puttering around, and a cold beer!