I have been determined to avoid the winter blues this year, despite weeks of rain. I have been reading on other blogs and in book reviews about how it is a good idea to get your kids outside more. Every day would be good. This sounded like a good idea to me, especially after our walk last week when the girls were so much happier all day. Let me tell you how this new resolution of mine went down. The first day, we went outside on our back patio and rode stick horses and played with swords. We were only outside for 10 minutes or so, but we had a good time and I was feeling pretty good about myself.
(Annika is on the attack, and Lucy holds onto her title as Queen of Funny Faces.)
The next day, feeling confident, I bundled up the kids and we drove to the park. The sun was shining and Annika was excited. We lasted all of about 3 minutes at the park before Lucy and Elise were screaming because their little fingers were frozen. See, I remembered the snow coats and hats, but I didn’t think it was so cold that everyone needed gloves. Lucy and Elise were crying and crying in the car because their hands hurt, and Annika was screaming because I made her leave the park. I wasnot quite as pleased as the day before.
I gave up on the “get outside everyday” plan. I’m not saying it is a bad idea, but it didn’t work for me. With no backyard, and lots of icy rain, it just doesn’t seem worth it to bundle everyone up and plead and beg and carry little girls until everyone is outside. I feel grouchy just thinking about it.
So we stayed inside and made the most of it. My girls are really starting to enjoy playing together, and it has been wonderful to experience. Not only do I get a little bit more time without them around my ankles, but I love listening to them laugh and talk and giggle as they make up games or sing songs or dance. Not that it always goes so smoothly. Lucy tends to get left out, and there are always tears, but it gets a little bit better everyday. I hope they stay friends forever.
(When you have to stay inside, nothing beats boredom like books and cookies.)
Today it snowed a little bit and we all went outside to catch snowflakes on our tongues and dance in the falling flakes. Maybe we just need a change in the weather – snow or sunshine would do the trick, I think. Both would be great.
Brad was home more than usual over the holiday weekend and life is so much more fun when he is around. It is also easier to get out the door and I try to take advantage of that. Now that I am always thinking about leaving Germany, I feel like I am seeing everything from a new perspective. Knowing that I will be in the United States soon makes me value all of my unique experiences here. On Monday we drove up to the castle by our house just to play. We’ve been there numerous times, but usually we are showing someone around or eating at the restaurant there. This time we went just to climb and explore and I felt so grateful for that. Seriously – how cool is it that my girls get to go spend the day playing in a real castle?
Can’t wait to find out where you are moving to!
5 comments
Monica - So first, I think it’s interesting that Lucy is the one that gets left out more. I would have though Anni even though I can see her not being left out b/c she’s older… Second, I am so sorry you are battling a little winter blues. I remember feeling like that in Germany but only once I had kids. In fact, I don’t think I ever understood how people could get depressed with the weather until I had kids and understood the need to be outside. I hate to say it but that really makes me think TX would be a great place for you guys… LOTS of sunshine! I also will honestly say a little prayer for you that you have a house with a backyard b/c that has been the NUMBER ONE thing I have loved about this house especially after stairwell living (at least you guys have a little area to be outside…) And LAST in my book, kids getting to play at the castle? FABULOUS!! Enjoy the rest of your time you know you will miss Germany once you are back stateside (although you will not miss SOME things!
) Oh one more thing, your girls are just absolutely adorable! I want to sqeeze them all!
Cristine - Okay, Monica wrote so much and all I can come up with is DITTO.
Love the pic of the shadows!!!! Totally cool! Miss you and hope the sun comes out for you soon!
Mom - I saw this post while waiting for my flight in the airport and it made sitting here by myself not so lonely. I couldn’t stop looking at the picture of Brad and the girls–that image depicts home life as it should be! What a great dad he is. Your girls are so lucky to have you as their parents.
Becky - Let’s make a basket. My “studio” is still pretty portable. I can bring my stuff to you so your girls can have their stuff while you are otherwise occupied. Name the date! Basket making is much more enjoyable outside in the sun, but nothing beats a little weaving to make it through the solstice.
Erica - Just for clarification purposes, I’m really pretty happy. I probably should have titled my post “Avoiding the January Blues.” We’re doing ok here, but I’m even better after everyone’s nice comments. Thank you! And Becky, I’m looking at my calendar and picking a day. I want to learn to weave baskets.