Lest I Forget

On one of the first truly spring days, we joined our Catholic Homeschool group on a field trip to the Wildpark in Potzburg. Being my introverted self, I was nervous about going. But I am so glad that I got myself and the kids there because it was a fabulous day! We started with a hike that was at least 2 1/2 miles. It was invigorating, and as I was huffing and puffing that last bit, I realized I have been like a hibernating bear through the winter. I have been very sedentary these past months. Then we saw the animals! Did you ever see the original Disney's "Jungle Book"? The scene with the buzzards trying to decide what to do, shrugging their shoulders, saying "I don't know. What do you want to do?" Buzzards walk just like that! Imagine! Then came the part that my kids will not soon forget. They got to actually let falcons fly up and land on their arm! Owls too. Oh, what a joy watching their faces. Me, I am not so brave, and I must admit I was a little...

Looking at the forecast, I knew that our only chance for a sunshiny day was right that moment. It would be cold, only 37 degrees. Donning heavy jackets, scarves, gloves, and generally being well bundled, Jack, Therese and I set out on a nature walk. I have been nervous about starting a nature journal with the kids. Not to mention that every moment is precious in our homeschool day and I struggle with getting all that math and reading in. However in the world would we find time for walking and drawing? You just have to do it, my friends. And it was worth every moment. Cold noses and fingers were a small price to pay for the joy of discovering all that we did. The sky as we stepped out the front door. We discovered that the puddle was partially frozen. These plants still had frost on them in the afternoon, for the sun had never shone on them. Leaf with frosty edges The side of the path had no sunlight. Another puddle, this one thawed thanks to the sunlight....

This afternoon, while I was running an errand, I entrusted my husband with the task of re-reading "Leaf Man" to the kids and to then go on a leaf hunt so that we could make our own leaf creations. I caught up with them while they were out. I must admit that at first I just wanted to herd everyone home because, well because we hadn't done much schooling and I started to feel the pressure to get more done. But I had to tell myself to stop and let them explore and play and just deal with the fact that I was very chilled. I still have that little nagging voice telling me "you aren't doing enough", and I am trying to quash that voice and just celebrate whatever we accomplish. It is not an easy thing to do when the rest of the world is telling you just the opposite.