Come swing with me!

I figured out the other day that my kids are getting bored with playing outside. I felt compelled to do something about it.I felt like I should be more active and play games with them and not spend so much time on my computer. I decided there had to be some kind of middle ground for their free time. I might need to provide some input to get them going but they still need time to use their imaginations and create on their own. My Dad tells stories of when he was a kid and he played outside all the time and I'm pretty sure his mother didn't follow him around giving him ideas and suggestions. His mother probably didn't know what he was doing half the time. Of course, that probably wasn't when he was 6 years old, so I guess I can't quite relate with that. Anyway, I do feel that they should spend time outside playing but there is only so much you can do with a tiny yard and a few sticks.

I got the bright idea to make a tire swing for the kids to help them with their imaginations and give them something to play on and with. We used two of their jump ropes that they were just using as pulleys for their big dump truck. The tire we found in the empty lot in front of the house - it was Ben's idea, I was just going to use a large stick for the seat. So I rigged it and had to adjust it as the ropes continued to stretch out with the weight. But now it is perfect. They'll go out before breakfast and swing and play. They'll go out in the afternoon and play. The hardest part is making sure they are sharing and letting everyone have a turn.























































Xiomara was really tuckered out after playing outside. She actually does this a lot - because I don't put her down for a nap anymore - she goes to sleep better at night time if she doesn't nap. But she has put herself to bed before and today she fell asleep on the toilet. I guess she still needs a nap.