Toddler Equations

A bucket of water + old pastry brush = 2 hours of pure delight. I'd like to thank my high school friend, MH, for giving me a heads up on this simple, yet genius toddler pleasing activity.

Peanut had the best time last Friday playing outside, especially in the water. I get such a kick out of watching him discover new things. Now that he's mobile, he loves to walk around, exploring leaves, sticks, rocks, grass blades, cracks, tree bark....It wears me out just following him around and guiding him around piles of doggy poo landmines. That's why the bucket of water is sooooo incredibly genius, see. Peanut stays in one place. For more than 30 seconds! I can sit in a chair and watch him, it's truly delightful.

There were a few hitches in an otherwise perfectly lovely activity. The need for really, really frequent bathroom breaks is a sure way to tick off a content, playing quietly toddler. A beer would have been a lovely addition to the day, but no such luck there (thanks, Petunia). I also couldn't help but wish that I was heading out on a date to an outdoor restaurant with only Tate. Is that wrong of me? Here I was, enjoying my son's company, but still wishing I was somewhere else. Am I a bad Mommy? Beautiful Friday evening - Babysitter = TV night again.

As a public service announcement, it is imperative that I share with you the following equation: unhappy, interrupted toddler + pastry brush = painful bump on Mommy's head. Hope this information comes in handy for you one day. You're welcome in advance.