Just about a year ago, Pittsburgh’s steady rain inspired me to make a short film, Rain Break, featuring my then 3-year-old, Jonas.

Yesterday, we had a sudden downpour of rain, and then I made another film. But this time, it wasn’t the rain that inspired me. Not directly, at least. It rained so hard that water was pouring off of the roof of our house and over the front door. My 7-year-old, Leo, was just about to do his homework – he was walking over to his bookbag – and then the waterfall caught his eye. And the next thing I knew, he was saying, “no shower for me tonight!” as he dunked his head repeatedly. And cackled and laughed hysterically.

You know, it never even occurred to me to say “GO DO YOUR HOMEWORK RIGHT NOW!” That laugh was infectious! Next thing I knew, Leo asked if he could go get his swim trunks on and play in the puddles. Sure, I said.

And then we made this movie.

It means so much to me to see kids outside enjoying nature and appreciating simple joy! And it’s extra sweet when it’s all their idea and all those smiles are spontaneous and real. I love you, my boys.