This slide has the best view ever—the top looks out over Christchurch and what’s left of the city center, backed by snow-capped Southern Alps. Amelia is our 5-year-old friend, dressed up in pink for a day at the Victoria Park playground with 4 of us Moms and our kids. Playgrounds are perfect spots for mommy chats because as long as we come armed with crackers and water the kids are happy!

Whee! Milo’s not what you’d call timid when it comes to climbing and sliding. I turned around and first thing I knew he was on his way down by himself, grinning from ear to ear.