Many days, my own laziness and a strong desire for serenity wins out over common sense. When my boys are outside and my house is peacefully quiet, I say yes to many things that I should probably reconsider.
The zipline was one of those moments…….
Don’t try this at home!
It all started with their passionate desire to conquer the "unclimbable tree." For this reason, they decided to build a ladder to the lowest branches. Being tired, I agreed, "Sure. Great idea." In my mind I was thinking, 'Hammers, nails, hmmmmm.....I get a break AND it can counts as Woodworking class. Double-Bonus!" Off they scampered to proclaim dominion over the tree........
After their creation was complete, they took turns hanging from the branches. Guess how long it took them to decide that they needed MORE adventure?
String a rope between two trees. Grab a Y-shaped tree branch. Add in some crazy testosterone. Voila! A zipline!
Isn't this safe? I told you it was questionable parenting........
My middle son, who is cautious, waited to see if my oldest son, the daredevil, lived. After confirmation that his brother didn't die....he proceeded to take a turn!
Upside down? Where are that kid's parents? Really....kids today......
How to Build A Zipline
For the record, I warned you NOT to try this at home. It is dangerous. Injury is likely. Your parenting skills will be questioned. Yet, if your boys happened to see any of these pictures…..you know what is coming, friend!
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Build a ladder. I have no idea how my boys did that. I was inside drinking tea! All I know is they left my house with boards (provided by their dad, of course…..the chief daredevil) and an hour later they had a ladder. Fasten the ladder to the tree. (Hubby did that.)
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String a rope between two trees. Hang it at an incline.
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Find a strong branch shaped like a Y.
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Create a cover story for the ER, in case it goes awry….. (just kidding!)
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Place the branch over the rope. Hang on tight…….Pick up your feet……
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Zip!
FYI…….As of this moment, no children have been injured in the making of this post………..
lol, this is AWESOME! And it’s not questionable parenting…you have three BOYS. I would rather my guys get hurt doing something that took thought, creativity, experimentation and engineering than be perfectly safe plopped in front of the TV or the Xbox! I did have to keep that in mind when my 5 year old sliced two nearly-stitch-worthy gashes into a couple of his fingers with his pocket knife this weekend. A 5 year old with a pocket knife…..How’s THAT for questionable parenting?!?!
Danielle
organizationalhysteria.com
Danielle,
Thanks for the encouragement! I completely agree! I would much rather that they get hurt while using their brains than be safe in a video game bubble! My 5yo has had some not-so-safe toys as well! Glad I am not the only questionable parent!
Jennifer