Nature Walk

With money tight for the next two weeks and summer coming to an end we're trying to make the most of our time right now. Today we wanted something we could do with the girls that we didn't have to pay to be able to do and that could also serve as some form of educational purpose for the girls as well. After some discussion we decided on Big Falls Park about 10 miles from us which has trails to walk along, rocks to climb, some beaches, and of course waterfalls. We took the girls to walk the trails and see the waterfalls. When we got there, we had Ashlyn listen for the water and lead us there by following the sound. She found the water in no time. We climbed around on the rocks for a while before heading back on the trails and on our way back up we saw a toad. We tried to catch it, but we were too slow. It was really nice being close to nature just the four of us.

There are times like today when I am reminded of Ashlyn's wealth of knowledge that seems to continue to grow on a daily basis. She has such a strong desire to learn which I hope will never end. Andi's curiosity is growing rapidly as well, and I believe will continue to grow as long as she sees her sister questioning how and why things work the way they do. They both have their own interests and styles of learning, but share the same overall goal: to discover and to learn.

At this point in the game we are introducing them to everything possible so they can decide for themselves what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what their greatest interests are. It's important that we have a balance of family activitives and shared experiences, and opportunities for the girls to be their own unique self.

Although we havn't officially started the school year yet, so far the girls are loving the school activities we've done, and say they can't wait until we get her classroom finished. I want them to understand that learning is not limited to sitting in a desk, nose burried in a book and so far I think Ashlyn in particular is really beginning to comprehend this idea, and I think it has made her appreciate homeschooling even more. This weekend we'll be going on a picnic with some other homeschoolers, and going to the orchards to pick apples, go on a hay ride, and run through a maze. Ashlyn's excited to know other homeschoolers and is looking forward to meeting more! It's been a great day, and we look forward to many more great days to come. =)