View from a Park Bench

Weather was gorgeous here today.  After dinner we loaded up both girls in the Mac Daddy Sit-n-Stand stroller and headed to the park.  On most trips to the park, I am the one chasing after NHV, pushing the swing, issuing warnings, "Be careful.  No pushing.  Watch the swings."

Tonight, I was able to sit on the sidelines.  Charlotte and I found a spot on the bench ... and just took it all in.

Here are a few random observations:

• Of the five families, we were each originally from a different country.  How amazing is that?!
• One father ran around with complete kid-like abandon.  He chased kids.  He made up games.  He was having more fun than anyone else at the park!  I am also guessing that was quite a workout!  When was the last time I ran around like a child ... arms waving, screaming, laughing?  Need to do that soon :)
• Another father arrived with his two daughters ... one of them (old enough to be potty trained) was wearing footsie pajamas and tennis shoes.  Couldn't help it; I chuckled out loud!  Moms and dads have very different ideas when it comes to appropriate wardrobe choices. And then I thought perhaps she is one of those preschoolers who become obsessed with an article of clothing.  It happens.  I wore the same Mickey Mouse sweatshirt for an entire school year.  And, really, does it matter?!
• Cell phones should be left at home or at least turned off when playing at the park with your kids.  Heard a kid pleading with his mom to pay attention to him, to play with him, to watch what he was doing.  All while she chatted on the phone.  Perhaps there was a really good reason for that conversation. But I wonder if she saw that scene playing out before her, if she'd make a different decision.

I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed my view from the bench.