Kids climbing up the flower pot at NorthPark Center.
Northpark Center — it's got everything: small marine animals, an artful interior landscape, women with fancy baggage, Neiman's. It was built in 1965 by art patron Raymond Nasher — the same dude behind the Nasher Scultpure Center. On weekdays, you'll find a decent size crowd of kids and mommies hanging out by the faux pond that's stocked with ducks and turtles.
I've always thought it was a little bit tacky, but I am nonetheless very happy it's an acceptable practice; Dallas parents know what I'm referring to:
You see, we have this habit of allowing our youngins to ascend, mount or otherwise climb that large flower pot statue thing that's situated in front of Neiman's.
Yep; that's right. We'll even go so far as to let the kids to take off their shoes and socks (everyone knows that bare, moist feet increase traction). Eiseman Jewels shoppers have a lovely view of these shenanigans while they're buying Rolexes.
I'm not sure when we began allowing this, but I remember climbing up that large flower pot statue thing circa 1995*.
Whoever it was that first allowed this practice, we salute you. You're a true pioneer in the continuing effort to find stuff for the kids to do during Texas summers. We Dallas parents know that this practice is tacky, but we're still glad you found it.
*OK, I climbed it again two weeks ago. But I resisted the temptation to remove my shoes and socks. Gotta have standards.
Dallas parents: How do you feel about children climbing (and sliding) on the "walls" of the flower pot structure? Do you let your kids participate? Sound off in the comments section below.
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