Playground

Because the ground of most playgrounds around here are lined with wood chips and Ryan doesn't wear shoes yet, our normal playground trips have consisted of me carrying him in my arms so that he can watch the other kids, playing on the swings, and going down the slide.

Last week I took Ryan to the playground again, but this time fitted with new shoes. I was hoping he'd just jump right in, start climbing on things and playing with the other kids. Instead, I was shocked to see how shy he was. He started to cry as soon as I pulled him out of the stroller, he didn't pay any attention to the other kids, and he definitely wouldn't walk. I thought the problem was the new shoes at first, but even when I took them off, he wouldn't walk or play....

I continued to take Ryan to the playground everyday for the remainder of the week...and with each day he became more brave and more social. By the fourth day, he'd immediately walk up to to other kids and begin interacting....


This car belonged to a much older boy, but Ryan was able to bully his way into it. He seemed to understand that it was Flintstone-powered, but he was only able to make it go backwards....


Ryan really likes the slide. After sliding down, he'll immediately head back up the stairs. It takes him several minutes, but he's been able to climb all the way up without any assistance....

Beach picnic with A/C and the twins....


This picture doesn't fit with the "playground" theme. I just like it because I think he looks like me....