Spring: The time of year when you fully understand how much stamina your kid really has

Though it has taken its time in doing so, spring has finally arrived in Normal.  This has been a greatly anticipated event, as the blustery, rainy days leading up to spring have forced children to resort to D-list toys.

I knew we had reached the peak of cabin fever when Wes insisted on helping with chores on garbage night.

Winter (or perhaps children's television programming) had also taken its toll on adult sanity.

But alas!  We have shed our hats and mittens and have busted out our tennis shoes and sunscreen.  We spend hours outside each day, resulting in far fewer bouts of whining (until, of course, it's time to come inside for lunch or even worse, nap).

We kicked off the good weather by participating in an electric car parade.  Sorry son, you don't ever have a chance of being cool with these parents.

Garage sales have become an anticipated event each spring (think Black Friday for the pseudo-employed).  With our newspapers highlighted and our route mapped out, we hit the road to find some deals.  And oh the deals we find.

I mean, who doesn't need a baby roller coaster?!

Or a sweet play house?

That has windows,

and a doorbell...

all of which we surely use according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Spending so much time outside requires proper UV protection some cool-guy shades.

Oftentimes we like to end the day with a spin around the neighborhood.

At the end of the day, everyone is tired.  Very tired.  But with the next sunrise comes another day of unbridled outdoor adventures...and a large cup of coffee for Mom and Dad.