Spring break has officially started, even though it doesn't look like spring here in beautiful Baraboo, Wisconsin. My brother's yard is still covered in a blanket of snow, and while it is beautiful to look at from inside in front of the fireplace, it would be nice to see greening trees and perhaps a crocus or two peeking out through new grass.
However, I'll be keeping my glass half-full this spring break, and so far the best part our our mini-getaway has been listening to the four kids play together. With the exception of a few howls of pain coming from the other room, most of the noise from the kids, ages 7-11, has been laughter. My two girls and my nephews play incredibly well together, especially now that the youngest is old enough to keep up with the other three. They invent all kind of games together; right now they are upstairs, probably building something out of legos or the giant wooden blocks. While I'm curious to know about the game they've invented, I'm also loathe to go upstairs and spoil the mood.
I treasure these days my girls get to spend with their cousins. Not just because Kyle & Kris have the best couches for snuggling in and reading in front of a raging fire on a cold afternoon or because Kyle cooks my favorite foods when we come to visit. More than that, it is the low-key atmosphere that lets the kids just spend time playing together and having fun. They see each other about 5 times a year, whenever we can find time in our busy schedules to make our way to Baraboo and then when they all go away to camp together in the summer. They are together often enough that their relationship is easy and they fall right into games they've played before but also allows for the invention of new ones. I love that when we're here at "Uncle Kyle's farm" they can all go run around outside and I don't have to worry about anyone being hit by a car or wandering off with a stranger; I just have to remind my girls to stay away from the donkey and not to go too far into the woods.
The kids decided to take a break from playing to take a picture:
I love these kids!
This sounds like the perfect vacation for everyone. Your family is making memories that will last a lifetime--and cementing important relationships that are the treasures of humanity.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a warm getaway. Enjoy the family, food, and fun in Baraboo!
ReplyDeleteWhat great memories for all! Being with family and letting the kids just be kids and play is the best way to spend a break. Enjoy your break with your family!
ReplyDeleteLooks like everyone is having big fun! And if it's any consolation, we started spring break in Denver with a foot of snow. Current temperature is about 15 degrees. Brrr! Good news is, my taxes will be done tonight.
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing to have this time with family. Reading it was like cozying up to contentment. Thank you for sharing. :)
ReplyDeleteChildren's laughter might be one of the best sounds on Earth. I can't hear a child laugh and not laugh myself. It is raw and real! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThe time I spent with my cousins are some of my fondest memories of childhood!
ReplyDeleteSweet picture - and sweet memories being made! I hope you enjoy every minute of your break!
ReplyDeleteOne of the neatest memories I have from childhood is playing on the farm with my own cousins. We didn't see them often; I only remember visiting the farm one time. But I still remember the hay loft, hanging out with the pigs, getting chased by roosters, and running after the sheep. I couldn't have been more than 5 or 6, either.
ReplyDeleteHere's to "quiet" days and good memories!
It sounds like everyone is having loads of fun. This reminds me of the summer vacations we take with my husband's family. We see each other at Christmas, but it is rushed, Our week vacation during the summer is when we have time just to hang out.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to spend vacation. Your girls will always remember this trip. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteHow fun that your kids can enjoy time with their cousins and that they get to go away to camp together. Time running around on the farm in Baraboo is probably much different from their normal activities and I am sure they have a blast.
ReplyDeleteCousins are the best! I have such fond memories of getting to visit with my cousins and all the crazy stuff we did. Memories that last a lifetime!
ReplyDeleteCousin love - some of the best slices of my life!
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful to read about children being creative and spending time with family playing and building memories! So much of kids' time is spent on technology! Thanks for sharing!
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