Celebrating free play

Well- the first of my 3D creations photographed in the flesh. Will admit to being fairly proud of this one. DD got this wrapped up for her birthday- don't think it quite sunk in that Mummy had actually made it- but DS1 was enamoured and has put in a request for a Guinea pig for his birthday (have just finished that- will photo that one next time). Quite enjoyed doing this one anyway and seemed to come together quite quickly. The book has a reindeer done in more or less then same pattern which I may have a go at for this advent.

Anyway life has been trying to be full of free play- lots of garden time and lots of mummy free imaginative play- which I am trying to celebrate and value- but sometimes feel guilty that we should be 'doing' more (why I don't know- 'tis the mummy guilt thing). M had been doing some strimming in the garden (sounds extreme I know- but when your garden backs onto woodland with voracious brambles- it is sometimes the ONLY way) and had chopped off lots of these long leaved stems. Found the younger two being birds ( both had about five stems tucked in their pants- just visible at back- plus their wings)

TP very proud of being able to join in with most games nowadays...

SJ, however, as usual went down the crafting route and decided to plait his together.

Feel slighly like I am struggling with balance this summer- between doing activities and having free time. Am trying to do a little decluttering of the house- or 'simplifying'- have addressed some un-utilised toys by putting them away- to see if they are missed. Need to maybe address the book shelves next- but know that I will struggle with this. I can't quite sort this in my mind that- if we have something already- whether it is better to hang onto it- in case someone may value it at some point or to get rid so that the groaning shelves may be rearranged to make things easier to access and friendlier on the eye.