Hampton Park

Today we took time to visit our new library, something we haven't done since the big move. Yep, it took us too long to do this. But now that we know how close and easy it is, and how wonderful the library is, we'll probably be going about twice a month. We used the odometer and measured seven miles to the library, which is pretty close to us. Also, it's a brand new library - only two years old right now. It is so crisp and clean, and bright too. Madison, Daddy and Mommy walked in like those folks that walked into Willie Wonka's place for the first time, eyes wide open and jaws dropped open. There are plenty of nooks for quiet reading, and plenty of places to read with Madison. Also present: activities for the kids. There are readings each Friday, and even movies on Saturdays. This Saturday, for example, they are playing "Darby O'Gill" for the younger kids, and for the older ones: "Green Lantern" and "Green Hornet." Hopefully you've picked up on that theme there.

The library has a whole lot of children's DVDs there. We picked up a few DVDs of the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and a few other cartoons for Daddy too! Also there: soundtracks. Daddy found the new Muppets CD, "The Green Album," which is absolutely awesome. Of course, with a title like that, it's just in time for St. Patrick's Day too. But this music collection seriously is great to listen to. They've taken old Muppets songs and put a contemporary twist on them. We've always enjoyed the old songs, so it is great to hear them again.

Yes, obviously we checked out some books too. Madison picked out several books, and also spent some time on the library's computers, engaged in some of the activities while Mommy and Daddy explored the grown-up section of the library somewhat.

Bottom line: it's a great library.

While we were there, it rained really heavily outside. It was one of those really big thunderstorms, but nothing as threatening as the recent one we had the other night. In fact, it was downright pleasant. It just felt like the earth was being replenished all around us, the water just pouring down from the heavens, and the crack of thunder echoing across the land. It was kind of like spring fever, I suppose. The weather was really nice today, even with the rain.

Tonight was another ballet practice again - Madison has been enjoying that. The end of this class promises a recital. That makes two recitals for Madison upcoming, because the other one is Madison playing the piano. We'll be very proud parents at both of those, as already Madison is doing very well with her piano practice. In fact, today she practiced some more. She was anxious to do so, in order to get some more Mombucks. This in turn gave her the license to play some games tonight, which we did: we bowled! Mommy loves this bowling game, as does Daddy now. Madison does a completely wicked knuckleball throw with that bowling ball, putting a ridiculous spin on it. We had a great time doing that and a few other Kinect activities, like boxing. More on that some day later, but for now, just take my word for it: Madison loved boxing!

We had a very nice day today. It was so pleasant to be together throughout. Time to sit down though, and read a nice book to wrap up the day. Daddy's currently working on a Terry Pratchett book. Madison is working on a Rosemary Wells book from the library!

"There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates' loot on Treasure Island..."

- Walt Disney