Apple Orchard

Last week we went to the apple orchard with our friends. It was a chilly morning that slowly warmed up. We had a wonderful time and the boys could remember some things we had studied about apples at the beginning of the school year.  Another field trip success! 

 Our gang! Baby Caleb was staying with his grandmother that morning. Also, getting Thatcher to smile on demand can be a challenge. 

 Waiting for fresh apple donuts!

 About to go on the tractor ride through the orchard. 

 Chickens, roosters, a peacock.........we saw a variety of animals!

 Abby and Elle petting the sheep

 Don't worry. We did not damage the bamboo!

Gem Mine

We got an opportunity to go to the gem mine again, this time with our friends Abigail and Madilyn! Besides having fun, it was perfect because we were studying rocks and gems that week in our homeschool. A fun field trip!

The Museum of Life and Science

Another highlight of our trip to Durham was visiting the Museum of Life and Science. I love this museum! It is engaging, educational, and there is plenty to do. Since we have last been there they have added a treehouse addition, which was a hit with the children of course. 

Hampton and Everett at the farm exhibit. 

 I think the pig was Eleanor's favorite animal. Although the alpacas had her laughing pretty hard. 

 The children loved playing in the boxcar. 

 Train ride! This was the best part of the day for our Thatcher Reid. 

 Noni and the big boys. 

 Climbing and exploring in the treehouse. 

 Thatcher is quite a little climber. He did all he could to keep up with the big kids. 

 Exploring barefoot in the creek. 

 Uncle Scott assisting our baby bear. He loves his Uncle Scott. 

 Playing hide and seek

 Reptile gazing

 At the butterfly exhibit the children were most interested in the coy pond. 

 With ALL the babies!

 Cooling off (which was needed at this point) in the "hill of mist."

We had so much fun at the museum! As we were leaving I even let the children pick out a small souvenir to remember the day. 

Meeting Baby Keller

My sister Mary's sweet baby was born (6 weeks early) at the end of July. Last week we finally got to meet this precious one. I was beyond excited and so were the children! We travelled to Durham and got to spend a few days visiting. Keller Shay was very loved!

Of all the children, Hampton was the most into loving on Keller. He kept asking to hold him every chance he got. I love his caring and nurturing heart. 

 Big boy and littlest boy.

 Note the fact that Keller is smiling. Love!

 Swoon and be still my heart! I just love this baby so much. What a sweet temperament he has and I was sure to store up on cuddles and snuggles. 

And it should be noted that Thatcher Reid is in none of these photos! Not so sure he is ready to give up his title as the "baby." Ha!

Homeschool Enrichment Classes

We feel very blessed that the children get to participate in another year of homeschool enrichment classes through our church. And this year Eleanor gets to join in on the fun and learning! Here is their class line up:

Hampton/Eleanor:

PE

Art

Swimming Creatures

Everett:

Astronomy

Critical thinking/logic

Drama/pantomime

They all have an excellent first day last week (they go one morning a week) and it gave Thatcher Reid and I some special time together. While the children were at school Thatcher and I went to Target, Hobby Lobby, and then home where I cleaned our home and he watched Mickey Mouse. A very peaceful and productive morning. 

Pairing these two up was very intentional. She felt less nervous with him by her side and I am hoping this will bond them (they can be at odds!)

 First day of classes!

Chef Thatcher

When your 3 year old requests a chef's hat because he wants to be a baker, you happily oblige........