Jan. 27, 2008 - Back from a mini vacation...

We just got back from our winter getaway at an indoor waterpark. The boys had an absolute blast! They are really growing up, and it's so fun to see them try new things and enjoy this time together. We met up with another hs family, and the boys loved playing and exploring with their friends.

Now, it's back to the daily grind (can you say laundry?). We're starting "Owl Moon" this week. I'm so excited to have the boys dissect the owl pellets (I ordered them online). I know they will love that! Also, my dad is going to take the oldest out hunting for animal tracks this week if the weather cooperates. I hope they see something interesting... my dad is an outdoorsman so I know he'll enjoy this time too.

Jan. 20, 2008 - It's Sunday, and we're stuck inside...

I've been stuck inside the past couple of days because of a cold snap.

Today I cleaned out one of my pantry cabinets, and I organized all our hs materials in it. I'm also working on clearing the desk and organizing the desk apprentice (from Staples--I LOVE IT--check it out!). The desk where my dc works has become so overrun with piles, books and projects that it was almost unusable. I hope to finish it up tomorrow. Not sure how to do it yet, but maybe I can get some pics of our finished area uploaded!

My other goal for this week is to get our field trip journal caught up, pics and all! I want to make the journal something that my son can particpate in... maybe I'll do it in a notebook and let him add pics and other souvenirs?

Jan. 13, 2008 - FIAR Winter Nature Study

I just dowloaded the Winter Nature Study by Jane Claire Lambert at the FIAR site... it is awesome!!! I'm so excited to get outside with the boys and do some exploring and journaling. I've requested some of the books she suggests in the nature study and purchased a couple others from Amazon. When I receive the books, I'll let you know what I think of each of them.

My 6 yo is really interested in photography, and I think I may let him try his hand at trying to use the digital camera to complete a winter scavenger hunt. Jane Claire has some wonderful journaling and record keeping pages included in the nature study, and I know he'll have fun with those.

Also, we've been very inconsistent about feeding the birds this winter, and I've really missed seeing all the feathered visitors we had in our yard this summer. I plan to get out in the morning and get stocked up on lots of goodies for our flying friends. The boys are wanting to make pinecone feeders (with peanut butter and seed), and so we'll whip some of those up tomorrow too.

More about our winter nature excursions to come in the near future...