Outside

I was reading another friend's blog post about her children playing outside and I got all mushy and gushy thinking of the days when I used to play outside.  This was the time when kids used to walk 2 miles to school, go swimming in the creek, play in the woods all day and our parents didn't see us for hours on end and they didn't worry!  I remember living outside.  Playing in the trees, playing in the back yard, playing in the woods. 

My kids love to play outside!  It is something they prefer to all other activities.  We just recently got a Wii video game.  It has been great for the cold winters here, but honestly, no amount of cold, or snow will deter my kids from going outside.  Our neighbors said that before we moved here, they rarely saw kids playing outside and now there are kids outside all day and all evening.  That is, until we make them come in and go to bed at the unseemly time of 7:00.  Other kids parents let them stay outside til 8 or 9.  We are just mean, terrible parents.  But I am glad we put off the whole video game thing.  And they rarely watch TV.  We removed the TV from the living room and put it in our bedroom and since we have done that, they rarely watch it anymore.  No easy access, no desire!  I am really grateful for this.  I am grateful that my kids know the fine art of playing outside.  That they know how to use their imaginations.  Hilton loves to play a game he calls, "Spider Monkeys."  I don't have any idea what this is.  I just know he loves it!  They play basketball daily, and swing on the swing set.  They would much rather be outside than in.  I wish I were still like that. 

I just hope this desire remains for them.  I hope outside play remains a priority and that they can continue to benefit from the sunshine... whether there is rain, snow, wind, hail or blue skies, I want them out there.  Even if it means muddy shoes.  Even if it means that homework is a little neglected.  My childhood was a magical time full of outside adventures and I want my kids to experience all they can.  As long as it is in the safe little block that is our home.  There are no woods or creeks or huge trees nearby, but you should see what my kids can do with a pile of dirt.