Today Smootch and I discussed what she would like to do over the summer. Without hesitation, Smootch generated an eight point list of things she'd like to do and learn:
-learn how to read
-do yoga with a video and mama
-read more books, more often
-have treats more often
-learn to sew with a stitch witch
-go to fun places like museums
-go to rec center for playtimes and to swim
-learn a musical instrument
Everything on Smootch's list is more or less do-able. What struck me, though, most about the list is how balanced it is. She's covered music, motion, nutrition, intellect, and spirit. This is me learning to trust Smootch's judgement, trusting that she knows best about her own self. It's an unfamilar leap from popular parenting philosophy, which is about micromanaging and hothousing children's intellectual growth. Smootch's plans feel calmer. More balanced. And it includes more treats. I'm in!
Camp was set up in a field of dandelion puff balls. Yet, our hayfever sufferers remained healthy. 
Camp also came with an extremely convient fence, handy for climbing, jumping, performing, and time outs.
Down by the river the dragon flies were shucking their nymph skins and taking their maiden flights.
To save them from the clompy sandled feet trouping down to the river to cool off, Smootch and her gang of friends were picking up the new flyers on sticks and carrying them around while their wings dried and were ready for flight.
(yes, he's naked under there. Some of us don't wait until after dark to go skinny dipping.)
You are wondering if there actually was 5 or 6 thousand other people there sharing 3 days of music. NCF has 4 stages going most of the time. This year the family stage was all supped up, with new playground equipment and a fully stocked children's tent. 
Both kids were very much into the music, dancing and general festival atmosphere. Birdie boy still wasn't into the sheer loudness of some of the bands. 
