We live within walking distance of an elementary school. It's one of the main reasons we bought our house. Who knows if we'll actually still be living in this house once Shaelyn is old enough to start kindergarten, but I envision walking to and from school, discussing our day, stopping to collect leaves or flowers or pretty rocks, and spending the time bonding together. Unrealistic, probably, but a dream nonetheless.
Today was a gorgeous day and Michael was finally released from his quarantined status, so I figured a trip up to the school's playground was in order. And speaking of being released from quarantine - Shaelyn, who had no idea that Michael has even been in the house for the last week, squealed with glee when she finally saw her Daddy. Both girls were immediately clamoring for his attention. (Ok, really only one, but he really wanted to see the other too...) He decided to wear a surgical mask whenever he held Rachelle, just to be safe since he is still coughing and wheezing. We thought Shaelyn would be scared of the mask. Instead, she was just happy to have Daddy back, whatever form that might be in.
But back to the playground...
We bundled up the baby in the stroller and headed out. The school's parking lot was semi-full. Confusing to me, seeing as how it was a Saturday and there were no other kids playing out on the playground. Shaelyn quickly started climbing and sliding, the only child out playing. Our family fun was soon interrupted by a group of about 8 boys, I'm guessing aged 7-10, bursting out of the school's gym. The reason for all the cars was soon apparent. I guess the school as some kind of intramural program for boys basketball, and these kids were taking a break between games. They quickly began rough housing, pushing and yelling and being, in my opinion, totally obnoxious. They of course had no regard to the 2-year-old happily playing on the equipment. And their language left much to be desired. (From little boys! I tell you!) Luckily Michael moved quickly and had scooped Shaelyn up and out of harm's way before the gang of hoodlums could overtake the playground.
But this school has two playgrounds, one on either side of the school. So we left said crazy boys and headed over to the other playground, hoping for some uninterrupted family fun this time. We rounded the corner only to find this playground occupied by about 6 girls, aged about the same as the boys. However, the scene was totally different. The girls were adorable, giggling and playing and pulling each other around in a wagon. No rude language. No rough housing. No obnoxious climbing all over the equipment. As we approached, they were discussing what to do next. "Let's go play house" one girl suggested. "Yeah!" was the return response, and all girls soon skipped off together, some towing others in the wagon, to some unknown destination for some good ol' fashioned imaginary play.
Upon seeing these two contrasting playing styles, I said to Michael, "I sure do love little girls." I guess it's a good thing I have two of them.
While at the playground, we found a jump rope obviously left out by some negligent PE teacher. Shaelyn had a great time figuring out how to spin it with Daddy. And by the way, I would love to see someone turn a jump rope like a triangle...
