at Duke Gardens

Sometimes with kids, you get excited about an idea, throw it out there, hear grumbles of protest, and push forward anyway. Last week, I suggested we spend the morning at Duke Gardens. It had been awhile, and I wanted to be outside. They whined, they said no, and then, with a bribe of a snack, they half-heartedly agreed.

We looked for frogs, fed a turtle and some ducks, admired flowers and the blue heron. They waded in the water, collected shells, and played "Three Billy Goats Gruff". I think we found the perfect balance. I was able to enjoy talking and walking with them, and they were able to play and have fun. When it was time to go, they didn't want to leave, and neither did I. Maybe we should go again tomorrow . . .