Reflections and Responses

Mild days have been a rarity around here lately, so as soon as we see that glorious sun appear and the temperature isn't too frigid, my little family heads to our backyard. My husband likes to tinker with his Big Green Egg or mess in the yard, and Olivia and I camp out on a large blanket with some toys. This set-up worked well a couple of months ago when she was younger and less aware of her surroundings. She would focus attentively on whatever colorful toy I placed in front of her, regardless of how many times she had seen it, and be amused for a substantial amount of time. It was a win-win: mommy got some vitamin D and a change of scenery, and baby was entertained. Lately, however, I haven't been as lucky. Now that she is more mobile and able to engage with her environment better, our blanket time outside is more exhausting for me as I try to contain her, and it's also become more messy. Yesterday, for example, Olivia ignored the load of toys I'd carted outsid