Dear Sandbox,

Dearest, Darling Sandbox,

Thank you so much for the 40 or so minutes of sanity you gave me today. You will never know how much it meant to me. I was only interrupted once in my vacuuming by a screaming H ("S frew sand on my shut!" "Oh no! Why did he do that?" "Um, bekuss I frew sand at him." "You threw sand on his head?" "No! Not on his head! I frew sand on his shut!")

I know we have sadly neglected you through the harsh winter months, but you were never far from my thoughts. Hibernating beneath a layer of dead leaves and snow, I knew that one day you would awaken and again be my sons' best friend. How beautiful was the cry this afternoon that lit upon my ears: "It's dry!! It's dry!!" followed by the happy sounds of childish conversation as they pulled the sprouting maple tree and weeds from you. I hope in the next life you are rewarded by being a beach in Hawaii. Until then, I promise to rake you clear of the dead leaves, keep the lawn edged around you, and supply you with children to keep you company through the spring, summer, and early fall months.

Bless you and bless you again, beloved Sandbox!