So somehow our house has become playground central.  Which really is fine most of the time.  I like having all the kids over here.  I like hearing what they are up to, what games they are playing, just getting to know them all.  And you know what?  I really like kids.  They are all good kids.  There are a couple that might be a bit rougher around the edges than I like, but I see this as an opportunity to model the sort of kind, compassionate behavior that would better serve them in life.

In an effort not to go broke handing snacks out the entire neighborhood I bought those ice pops that come in the plastic sleeve.  You know that ones that I mean?  I am sure that they have a name, but we just refer to them as ice pops.  They had them on sale at the grocery store a box of 100 for under $3.  That is a small price to pay to keep all the neighborhood kids happy.  None of the other neighbors hand out snacks, why should they I guess since I always am! 

Our neighborhood is really big on sharing. All the kids play with each others toys.  At the end of the day if there are toys in my driveway that don’t belong to us I just stick them in my garage.  I know that the next day the owner will come over and find it. 

Everyone gently reprimands the kids should they need it.  I have no qualms with someone telling one of my children to stop whatever it is they might be doing, nor do I have any hesitation about doing the same to one of the other children.  it really is a fabulous community and we are blessed to have found it.

Now if I could  just convince all of the kids that doing yard work is REALLY REALLY a fun game and they should all do it.   Weeding… it is the new jump rope.