So, I stole Angie's idea about letting each of the kids call the shots one day this week, and it has been a fun week so far. Today Ty picked going to Willow River State Park and picnicking and swimming in the river. It was a gorgeous day, the water was freezing and the kids were braver than their mom. I've got some cute pictures, but my computer hasn't been working, so those will have to come later.
Ty was swimming laps until he met some buddies and starting trying to catch minnows (unsuccessful) the rest of the time. Shayla and Garrett swam, played in the sand and then played on the playground, while Grant swam and then tried to set a new world record for putting disgusting objects in his mouth (rocks, sand, goose poop, cigarette butts...you get the picture). I've discovered that I've mellowed a bit as a parent from 1st to 4th child, and it's okay. Expectations shift from "don't let the baby put anything dirty in his mouth" to "try not to let him swallow it, and if he does, try not to get too grossed out by it and pray for the best." It's not entirely a bad thing, right?!
All in all, it was a perfect summer day--I couldn't ask for more. Tomorrow is Garrett's day--picnic in the canyon followed by obstacle course in the tennis courts. Should be entertaining.
