Lessons from the Playground {Part 1}

I have a feeling we will be spending lots of time at the playground this summer. And since I just got a new lovely to play around with, I thought it would be the perfect time to take the camera off Auto and start shooting in Manual.  {yes, I'm scared... but surprisingly happy with most of my images}

So, I have thousands of shots.  {yes, thousands - thank goodness for digital and the delete button}.  Enough to bring you a ten part serious on the playground alone.  You'll indulge me in oohing and aahing over them with me, right?  {I'm kidding about that ten part series... probably just five}.

Today we'll focus on the swings.   Hey... maybe you'll get a new idea for a photo angle {if you're a wanna be momtog, like me}. 

There is something about a swing that is relaxing and freeing for both the pusher and the swinger.  The swings are relatively safe.  I don't have to worry about treacherous ladders, steep slides, or rambunctious 15 year olds that shouldn't be on the kid's playground.

And for the swinger - they are solitary.  They are predictable.  They defy gravity.  And they are way more enjoyable while wearing a Dinosaur Hoodie.

You can be with someone, but in your own world at the same time while on a swing.  My definition of bliss.

Jonah's first time on the swing always starts this way.  I don't even think he has ever seen anyone do this - he just instinctively knew it would be fun.  I envision a face plant each time he chooses this position.  So far, so good.

Clara is the age Jonah was when I had her.  Practically a baby.  I would NEVER have planned to have her when we did.  But, I can't imagine life any different now.  15 months apart is perfect for us.  While one has no hair, and the other could afford a hair cut every week, their spunk feeds off each other.  Their excitement for life - for swings - is fresh and tangible.

Approaching the swings.  Clara is screaming her war cry of excitement and Jonah is intent... focused on the goal.  A perfect picture of their ever budding personalities.

Until part 2...

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