Neighbor Logan (8) came over to visit, and we got a good geriatric workout. He was looking for something active to do after reading a book with John. His eyes lit up when he saw the red balloon in my hand. John and I remained seated as we batted the balloon around, while Logan was on his feet. I’m always surprised at how much energy it takes to reach out for a wild shot or kick the balloon up from the floor. I missed a few as I aimed the camera, trying to catch the action.

Logan didn’t miss a thing. His bare feet were slapping on the hardwood floor, running first one way and then another. He made dramatic saves to keep the balloon from touching the floor, something like a man sliding into first base. It was amazing that he didn’t run into furniture or slam into a wall. The balloon was a blur in this shot, taken without a flash. Logan was a blur to us as long as the balloon was in the air.

When John called for a break, Logan played with a radio controlled truck left out on the credenza. He made it zip around and under every piece of furniture in the room. For added excitement, he put the balloon on the floor and herded it with the truck. To our delight, the balloon moved in unpredictable ways.

Logan’s parents will be pleased to find out that he said without prompting, “Thank you for having me.”