Spring

I think it's safe to say that spring is officially here in Iowa!  It has been a long winter.  Even long-time residents of Iowa were bemoaning the frigid temperatures.  We had school cancelled one day due to windchill, and we had quite a few late starts.  

Still, we weren't as bad off as some parts of the country who are not used to snow but were mercilessly dumped on repeatedly.

The kids did not enjoy walking home from school.  Yes, my guilt was always a little pricked as I watched them plod and wade through the snow up our street.

Usually Ashley's teacher had her wear her snow pants and boots home (both are required in snowy conditions if the kids want to enjoy recess off the school blacktop).  This meant the entire class was delayed getting out the door each afternoon because they were all waiting on Ashley to get her gear together.  When Ashley's teacher (kindly) mentioned this had been an issue, I laughed.  If there is one thing Ashley does not know how to do, it is hurry, especially when getting ready to go somewhere.

Everett and Ashley would finally arrive, pink-cheeked and requesting hot chocolate in their most pitiful voices.  The walk is, at maximum, two blocks.  It would take me longer to get everyone in the car, wait in the too-long line, and get back home than for Everett and Ashley to forge their way on their own.  

I think Ashley's teacher thought I was a little unreasonable to expect a 5 and 7 year old to walk home from school.  She made a few well-placed comments to that effect.  But the one day I felt sorry enough for my kids to actually pick them up in the car (the windchill was about 15 below), Ashley spent the next hour playing outside in the back yard.  

So I didn't feel too bad when Everett and Ashley had to walk home on cold days, especially because it meant I did not have to wake up my little napping boys (often all of them at that time of day).

Besides, they usually came home with interesting finds (or litter, that they'd disapprovingly throw away) like this.  Ashley especially loved picking up a big piece of ice or snow to snack on during her walk home.

But now it is scooter weather!  Everett and Ashley both got scooters for Christmas.  I made a deal with them that if they could collapse and open their scooters with no problems three times in a row, they could ride them to school.  Both kids passed with flying colors.  So I took a hacksaw, etched an identifying mark in each, and sent them on their way.  It has been a great experience.  They used to be the last ones up the street, but now they are one of the first.  Everett is thrilled that the Number One Rule I gave them ("Always stay together") no longer means he has to hang back at Ashley's plodding walking pace.  They zip to school and zip home and are happy to do it each time. 

We take lots of after school trips to the playground at the end of our street.  It has two ponds and walking trails, so it is perfect for all of us.

(yes, that is little James at the tail end, there.  I can't believe how big he is looking these days.)

Everett loves the spring weather.  His wish is to wear shorts year-round, but I keep telling him that is just not practical in Iowa.  As long as the morning temps aren't below forty, I let him.

Everett has a friend who has taught him such gems as "that's cold, man!" and the moves to match.

Sigh. But I think I will always see him as my sweet little boy.

Spring rains are always fun.  I love it when the kids have the opportunity to get messy and have fun outside.

Pure bliss!

And it was even warm enough one day to pull out the sprinklers and water the children.

Spring, we are glad you are here!