BACKSTORY: I wonder how many pounds of sand were transported into my house before I figured out, to prevent cosmic remnants all over, I should strategically time the sand play immediately before bath time. If I could manage it before swimming time, the clean-up was even easier.

I accidentally stumbled upon another sandbox hack. One day, the sand toys were MIA and I had to improvise. I scavenged a piece of aluminum foil, a bag of mateless socks, a bucket of crayons, and a tray of ice cubes. It seems the universe can make planetary systems from anything. Who knew?

As much as I like to play in sand myself, I think it was loads more fun when I stayed out of the way and just watched. Amazing things happen in a sandbox. It’s an honor and a marvel to witness. Even the bickering parts.