magnificent & marvelous

like you can't even imagine, because it has been SO long...weather that shines down and makes you smile is something we made sure not to let go by without soaking it up like a bottle of water.

Even my sweet-faced, baby girl decided it was okay to smile for a posed picture today. And how glorious! There can't be much better on Earth than coming home after a full day and running outside to play amongst the blue skies without layers of clothing. (In my mind, my agenda was already set, as I had the camera ready and waiting before I was even through the door.)

If you know me well, you know I am a super fan of brick backdrops...so having the opportunity to catch the kids on the front steps was perfect. (Keep your eye out for some more brick work - I have something in the works.)
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But we spent the afternoon well with chalk...

...bikes...

...it wasn't long before shoes came off and...

...skates were in check.I had a kid complain that his Mom made him wear his "gear" before he took his skateboard for its first outing. He got over it.

I found myself chasing them up one side of the sidewalk and down the other way throughout the afternoon sun. I learned to catch the blown out effect of the sunny rays - where the orange glow harken back to the pictures of my childhood in the later 70s and early 80s.
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Brandan practiced a bit, but got frustrated with keeping the board straight down the narrow path of sidewalk.

We noted the setting sun's glimmer and made sure to catch our shadows that chased us around during this marvelous. magnificent - wonderfully spent afternoon.

Can't you see the sparkle in his eye? He's serious about staying outside.

So, there is no need to tell you he had to throw a fit before getting him in for the night....

No worries, boy...Spring is a' comin'.