down by the bridge

Down the bank at the foot of the stone bridge, there are things to do.

These things involve sticks. And frigid water that dashes merrily past sneakered feet.

Here are two entirely happy brothers.

As their dad looks on, they hit things with sticks. They throw stones and sticks into the river. They climb on rocks. They ask if they can go wading, fishing, swimming, exploring.

Please, Dad?

They stop their important work to smile for the camera.

Oh, to be the fortunate boy to have brought his boots!

Then there are those who are too cool for boots.

The camera did not manage to catch the Great Nerfball Toss, an epic event which involved fishing the ball out of the raging stream. With a stick.

A good time was had by all.