Our tree

Here we are.  Dirty faces and all.  I wanted to get a really cute picture of all four kids.  But, this one makes me smile so I will post it. It's how we were one cold afternoon in December.

After our attempt at a picture, I promised the boys we would go outside for a little while.  It's cold and the wind is howling.  Too cold for a walk around the lake.  We settle for the path to the school.  The path we walk everyday.  Sheltered from the wind.

The boys want to climb trees.  There is something about boys and trees.  They have to climb, to master it, to be in it.

And, when they do make it to the top.  They have conquered the world.

And, the little ones want a turn.  Even if they need help.

So, I push and encourage and become frustrated but, we do it.  Mom on the ground, 6 year old in the tree.

Then we wonder how to get down.  Big brother has to help.  And, after all this effort, littlest brother decides that crunching leaves is more fun.  He no longer wants to climb.  And, I know that someday he will master this tree.  In time.

And the wind is still howling so we head inside for a Bronco game.  Daddy is waiting for us.   A little colder then when we started but knowing we have mastered the tree we can enjoy the rest of the afternoon.