Just the Girls.. and a Baby Boy

The past two years I have labeled this re-occurring post as "Just the Girls". Not this year. While Ryan's having his yearly MotoGP fun, we're having our own shenanigans and moto-races here at home.

It's Olympic style this year, with some balance beams.

The judges checked out the beams beforehand to make sure they meet regulations.

And to finish off the day, the swing competition!

It was very close. In fact, both of them won for having the most fun.

The Ol' Oak Tree Swing

The tree swing is finally up. It was more of an ordeal than I expected. First thing is figuring out how to attach it to the tree. I think most people just tie a rope around the tree. But some say that this could eventually harm the tree if the branch's growth is restricted by the rope. So the preferred method is to drill a hole through the branch, and use eyebolts. I found this method on the "This Old House" website.

Since the branch is about 8" in dia, I had to get a really long drill bit to drill through it. The rope is 5/8" polypropylene - not the best choice, but maybe the most economical. I expect I'll be swapping it out for something better sometime down the road. I used some oval carabiners and quick links to connect the rope to the eyebolts and chain.

Here's the completed installation...

The eyebolts go completely through the branch. Some people use lag bolts, but it feels safer to have the bolts going all the way through the branch.

The bucket seat seems to be the safest for kids this age. There's a lot of room in it so I think it will last her a little while. And it can easily be swapped out for a regular swing (or tire) when she's old enough.

And here's Emilia enjoying the ride...

It's reversible...

The downside of the swing is that she cries when I take her out. So maybe I should just leave her in it, and check back every hour or so. Just kidding, momma! ;^)