The Pool

Just before Ellis was born, Ed and I made a quick trip to the KMart about half a mile away to purchase a new kiddie pool for Blanden because last summer's purchases (we had one for Belle too -- and, no, Ella wasn't neglected; she hates the water) didn't make it through the winter -- you know the type, the standard hard-plastic kind that cost about $10. However, after Ed saw the sales, he couldn't resist buying this instead:

That's quite the pool for our itty, bitty backyard! And for our little boy! Blanden was excited. Here he is helping Daddy set it up and fill it on June 5.

And then trying it out with Papa for the first time on June 10.

We teased Papa that we do now have water here in Colorado, the one thing he misses when he comes to visit -- and the one thing holding him back from moving out here someday. So now what is he waiting for? ;)

And back in it again today.

For the couple who just last summer feared the takeover of giant plastic paraphernalia that seems to accompany children (one sandbox seemed like more than enough), it's pretty clear now that between the sandbox, the kiddie picnic table, the new climber, and the pool, our yard has, in fact, been taken over by giant plastic paraphernalia ... and also by one (and next summer it will be two!) very happy, active little boy.

But we figured that as much as we all love Washington Park, and as close as the park is, there will be days this summer when it will be easier for Mommy and Ellis to set up camp for Blanden in our own backyard. It's worth it. (Although perhaps not for Belle, as this is inflatable and she isn't allowed in...But she is growing ever fonder of her growing playmate that is Blanden.)