We invited another couple from church over Saturday night and got to try out having small children in the house for the first time. (They have a 3-year-old, a 1-year-old, and one due later this summer.)

1. I might wash the sliding glass door once this summer, but next year it will be pointless.

2. A house that one can traverse in a full circle is an incredible asset that, by itself, can keep small children amused for hours. When you add a dad to chase, no other toys are needed.

3. Small children suffer minor injuries once every 20 minutes and major ones once every other day. Eventually you cease to be traumatized by it.

4. Throwing an afghan over one's head creates a surprisingly effective hide-and-seek location.