on the river

We spent the weekend with friends, along the Ohio River. Hank carried around an old yellow Care Bear - Sunshine Bear, if I remember correctly - and it was merely one of MANY things that felt reminiscent of my own growing up. I remembered how to drive a wave runner, the way the muck felt beneath my feet, how easy it is to become absorbed scooping and pouring, to lose track of time.

I was thrilled to see all three boys take to the river right away. 

Two baths later they still have dirt in their ears and under their nails, and I completely understand why my argument "but I went swimming today" never held up to my parents' bedtime directive to hop in the shower.