Nature Explorers

Over the Summer Rebecca and I plan to continue her math work and sharpen her reading skills, then this Fall, when the new school year begins, I'm going in a new direction. We're going to begin following Charlotte Mason's theories of education for at least the next couple of years. It makes it easier for me to incorporate the boys into our school day and also I love the ideas of this 19th century educator. Already we've begun reading different books to Rebecca, heavier reading, old original fairy tales and even some abridged Shakespeare, and we are both enjoying them so much! One of the big things Charlotte pushes for young students is lots of time exploring, journaling, observing, and soaking up nature. Today we found just the place to help us practice! Reedy Creek Park is over 700 acres of woods, a nature preserve, nature center, ruins of an old plantation, playgrounds, lakes ,etc. They offer lots and lots of free and inexpensive classes for children. Things like journaling and sketching nature, identifying trees, and classes devoted to just insects or butterflies etc. Storytimes too! I can't wait to get Rebecca and Levi into some of these classes! So here are some pictures from today with more to come over the year I'm sure.

 Lunch after church from Cook Out, Isaiah likes his chili and fries.

 Let's go this way mama.

 Dusting off his hands after a tumble....Levi fell that is, not Aaron. ;)

 Giddyup!

 I can't believe she used to fit so nicely in this stroller. Getting too big!

 Can you ever have too many tall pines, I can't!

 I wish I knew enough people to plan a party, these shelters were so great!

 Wonder what's down this trail......

 Just the coolest treehouse EVER!

 There were several xylophones in the park. This one was old wrenches, but my favorite was the wooden one....great sounds.

 I'm coming back to this bench with a book someday.

Betting bracer these days.

 Look, a snake.

 Little naturalist.

Have to go home sometime...we'll be back!