Springing Forward

We put up our new trampoline today! It was a special Christmas gift from Charles. It was not what I was planning to do today, but the weather was so beautiful, and the kids really wanted to try. I thought for sure we would need some help to get it together -- it is a heavy, awkward, thing! But then I took a good look at my kids, and their willingness, and I thought, "We can totally do this!"

The instructions said it required three physically fit adults to put it together. Well, we proved the instructions wrong. Luckily for me, two of my children are the size of adults, and they are super strong -- so I felt we would be able to make it happen. I was right. We made it happen! Yea for us! 

It took about 4 hours to get it all together. Getting the safety net secured was one of the longest parts, but the kids stayed totally focused and with me the whole time. In fact, after getting the trampoline springs on (which took a bit to figure out) the kids pretty much handled it from there. I was so proud as I watched them use their abilities to work hard and put something challenging together. 

I am so excited to have the trampoline up. I love to watch the kids jump, and I love to play on it too. What I especially love is getting out sleeping bags, laying out under the stars, and contemplating the Cosmos. I cannot wait until it is a bit warmer so we can star gaze. We have a wide-open view of the sky, so it makes it perfect. 

We spent so much time outside today, we all got some good sun. It felt so good to be outside, and to breathe in the fresh air of spring. We also tidied up the yard to prepare for the new season of growth and beauty. I love spring so much. It is the best. There is something truly magical about the smell of warm dirt. 

Did I mention how much I love my children? They are so awesome. I feel so blessed that I have been given capable and obedient children. They are so willing to help, and they are so wonderful. I had to smile as Daniel tightened all the screws, and Sammi diligently "sewed" the safety net on. William helped too, he brought us all the pieces to everything. It was a family effort. It was even fun! 

I sat on the trampoline with William, tossing a ball back and forth. Out of the blue he said, "Even though daddy died, we still have an awesome life." 

And you know what? 

He is right. 

We have an AWESOME life! 

Thanks for the trampoline Charles! You're the best! We love you! 

P.S. Notice how Henry is jumping on the trampoline a week after surgery... yep, he is super resilient. I knew his extra energy would come in handy for healing. The doctor said I should let him recover at his own pace. I think Henry might have Wolverine-like healing capacity. :)