Darren and I decided last night that it would be fun to take the kids on a field trip today. So this morning, after bible songs and breakfast, morning chores, and math and language lessons, we loaded up the van and headed over to Dripping Springs, a beautiful trail system located just a short drive from our home. Dylan and Caitlyn were so excited, and both wanted to take their new backpacks along for the hike! Dylan studiously enclosed his butterfly and bird books, while Caitlyn chose to leave hers empty so she could store found treasures along the way.
The visitor's center had so much to see that we lingered there for a long while, first outside, where we were enchanted by the panoramic beauty, the number of butterflies, grasshoppers, and hummingbirds, and the lovely gardens. 
When we finally made our way into the center, we were greeted by the kindest lady, who generously showed us around and took special care to point out and explain things to both Dylan and Caityln. At last we ventured out onto the trails, where again we encountered numerous grasshoppers and butterflies, many of which we had not previously seen. My kids thought it was so hilarious to discover that some butterflies are actually attracted to animal droppings! But actually, even I have to admit that it really was rather fascinating to see in nature that which I had only ever read about in books. Kind of gross, but neat! 
We hiked for a while, stopping many times to investigate all the critters that crossed our path. We turned back when it got too hot, but agreed that we will definitely head back once the weather begins to cool a little more! 
7 comments:
Looks like everyone had a great time. What beautiful views! I'm sure it was breaktaking.
So beautiful!
Okay, so I have tried about three times to leave you messages on your last couple posts but they wouldn't work. Something must be going on with blogger.
Anyway, I hope you get this one:
You are amazing. You're an amazing teacher and mom. I have no doubt that you are doing exactly what the Holy Spirit is inspiring you to do. We all doubt ourselves and whether we're always doing exactly what we're supposed to be doing. Don't doubt this, Melissa. You are a blessing to your children; your patience, your enthusiasm, your dedication. Traditional school or homeschool, either way children must be taught with those qualities. For me?
I cannot wait to homeschool!....in another six years. I have a feeling I will be much better suited for homeschooling pre-teens and teens. Now that makes me excited!
I love all the photos documenting your days!!! And your sharing lesson plans and activities. Don't apologize for a moment.
Hugs, friend.
Shoot! Sorry about that. That Steve guy? Yeah, that's me. ( I should check who's signed in before I decide to write a novel on someone's blog!)
Ditto on Nicole's comment. The photos are gorgeous! I love everything you photographed. Your dedication and enthusiasm is contagious. And I am moving to where you live! Your nature is so beautiful! I love it there! We may be vacationing New Mexico way sooner that I thought!
What an awesome field trip! What gorgeous scenery! My husband LOVES New Mexico. Now I can see why.
It looks like an amazing field trip!
You have so many neat parks and trails and places of beauty out there! What a perfect place for a field trip and lots of learning about the natural world.
I'm just loving your homeschool life!
Post a Comment