I must admit I felt a sense of urgency today when I looked at the weather forecast for the next few days. Today was predicted to be the last mild, sunny day for a while.

And since the new arboretum membership card (thanks, Mom and Dad) was burning a hole in my pocket, the kids and I stole away for an hour to enjoy the outdoors. Never mind that one child is emerging from sickness and another one entering it; I decided that the fresh air was good for the soul today.

They were set loose.

They love the maze. It never changes, so they know the layout like the backs of their hands, but it’s nevertheless great Tag territory.

Peter was Ruthie’s escort for the trip.

And was she ever in for a ride. There ain’t nothing that’s going to slow Peter down.

The little squirt held onto her sandwich quarter the entire time. She eventually fell asleep while keeping a firm grip on it.

These two have been bonding lately.

While Jake enjoyed some solitude hiking on the trails, the younger guys climbed around the trees.

We saw many squirrels, and they were surprisingly unafraid of people. I have a funny story (with pictures) about one such bold squirrel to share with you another time.