Dream Park

It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain an exciting array of parks in our repertoire. When Angus was really little, he didn't seem to mind which park we went to. As long as it was outdoors, had a swing and a slide and some bark chips to gnaw on, we were set. At almost 4 years old, he is somewhat more decisive when it comes to park choices. Lately, every time we mention going to the park, he chimes in "I want to go to a brand new park Mama!". The pressure! Can't say I blame him though, same old equipment, scenery, people... I find it monotonous. Our local street park also happens to be a disgrace at the moment. It's been gradually deteriorating, with broken and missing play equipment. And the council's seemingly rehearsed response... "it is due for a complete refit 'sometime' in 2013". Councils!

The park we visited today is admired every time we drive past it. Angus never fails to trumpet insistently, "I would like to go to THAT park!" This morning his dream came true. Actually, this place was a dream come true for Mama also. An extensive variety of play equipment, all modern, clean and challenging. Plenty of grass to run through and benches to sit on. And to Angus' sheer delight, a duck pond... complete with pretty boardwalk bridge across it. Every bit THE dream park. 


It took almost our entire stay before Angus plucked up the courage to ride the giant flying fox. I'd watched him eyeing it off. Checking out others shooting through the air with shrieks of laughter. I kept quiet on the subject, rather than make a big deal of it. I wanted him to initiate the move towards it. And he did. In a big way. After eight solo sails on the thing, he was still keen for more. There can never be too much of a good thing.