Playing in the Yard

One thing I've learned about my kids over the past few months is that they are MUCH happier if they spend some time each day outside. I don't know if it's the fresh air, the change of scenery, the mosquito bites, or the exercise, but they are definitely more pleasant if we get out.

Some days it really annoys me. I don't especially enjoy following them around the yard, making sure that Toby doesn't knock Abbie down or that Abbie doesn't put gross things in her mouth. And usually I have lots of other things I'd rather be doing indoors. On days when I don't care if they get completely filthy, I put a couple inches of water in a little tub just outside my kitchen window. That way I can keep an eye on them while I do dishes or bake. They have a grand time, and I bring them inside just in time for baths, lunch, and naps.

We are so glad for our big, fenced-in yard! The only problem is that we share this yard with our landlords, and they have dogs who like to bark and scare our kids half to death. Our landlords are aware of this, and I think they're trying to keep the dogs penned up during the times our kids usually play outside. We are really glad for the protection it gives us to have dogs on the property, but we're thinking of putting up a fence between the yards to keep the dogs out during the day. Anyway, that's another reason I need to stay nearby when the kids are outside.

They love watching bugs crawl around on the ground. Yesterday we found a huge snail shell, and after we gave it some space, the snail came out and crawled around. They thought that was really cool!

Yes, this is posed. How else do you get two kids to sit still long enough for a picture? =)

This is the best "Toby at 3 years old" shot I could get. I love how you can see Abbie in the background, running to get in on the action. So typical. =)