Law, Liberty and Government

Today's lesson was about The Law, conscience, property, pirates, and plunder...an intro into understanding the principles of liberty and the proper role of government. 

Her assignment was to interview someone who could impart wisdom on these topics.  I asked her to think about who that person would be, and before taking her next breath, she said, "Pastor Doug."

She compiled five thought-provoking questions, and called Pastor Doug to see if he would be willing to be interviewed.  He was "honored" that she chose him, and the interview took place in his home this afternoon.  

I was proud of how she handled the entire process, and she walked away a wiser little girl.  Thank you Doug Tipps for caring, sharing and helping us teach Ella the importance of becoming an independent, capable, responsible thinker.  

Back to School

2020 has been less than perfect.  So many unexpected things have happened in our world since it began:  horrific fires threatened the south coast of Australia and New South Wales, President Trump was tried for impeachment, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down from their royal duties, Kobe and GiGi Bryant died in a helicopter crash, our country shut down amid the coronavirus pandemic, sex trafficking heightened, and the list goes on.  

In the midst of all this heavy stuff, we step out in faith--and clearer vision--knowing our journey has a purpose.   During uncertainty, we tend to seek out all that is sweet and familiar to us.  

This morning, our 5th grader, asked for a back-to-school sensory bath. The kind of bath she's had since she was a toddler; the kind of thing that brings her pruny hours of peace, joy, and comfort.  

So, in the back-to-school spirit, appeal to the senses...

... Sight ...

The Buddha Board is a reminder to live in the moment.  Once the water evaporates, your art disappears and leaves you with a clean slate (sound like a familiar story?)

... Sound ...

The Trumpet of the Swan:  

https://www.amazon.com/The-Trumpet-of-Swan-E-B-White-audiobook/dp/B000LV6QCE/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BVF92VCSGHKC&dchild=1&keywords=the+trumpet+of+the+swan+audiobook&qid=1597255898&s=books&sprefix=The+trumpet+of+the+swan+audio%2Cstripbooks%2C221&sr=1-1

... Smell ...

... Touch ...
School related items that sink, float, spell words, play music, etc.

... Taste ...
Apple Fries

Research shows sensory play builds connections in the brain's pathway and is crucial to brain development.  Gonna play our way through 5th grade;).  We've got this!

We didn't forget...

The pandemic and rain didn't stop us from honoring some heroes--heroes from the Texas Revolution to World War II.

We know they looked down from heaven and smiled knowing we didn't forget them.

Since flags and Memorial Day go together, seemed like the perfect opportunity for a flag folding lesson and explanation of what each fold represents.  

For all you did, we honor you--today and always!

Spring Equinox 2020

Goodbye Winter Socks, Hello Spring!

And, just like that...she shed her old socks and tossed them in the fire.  This is what you do when you're quarantined for weeks, hoping Covid 19 fades with the brown of Winter and a healthy green takes its place.

Day by day, little by little (except for pollen--which is in abundance) spring begins its journey from the sleepy earth to the lively sun.  

In this time of darkness, let God's light give you hope. 

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." 

—John 8:12

We earned our wings...

...chicken wings--that is.  Ella and I are officially country girls! 

Due to the graphic images in this post, viewer digression is advised;)

Today's field trip was at http://www.plumfabulousfoods.com in Plum, TX.  One of our homeschool moms lives with her family on this wonderful organic small working farm.  

Today three of us homeschool moms--along with kids of all ages--rolled up our sleeves and humanely prepared 47 chickens from farm to table/freezer.  

I'm a rookie at this (and like it that way); the other two moms are way more seasoned.  In my mind, I was there to observe, Ella was there to participate.  Well, that ended up not being the case.  I have to tell you...when we first arrived upon the bloody scene, every inch of my being wanted to vomit.  Those who know me well know that I'm not really a big meat eater, and I never touch raw meat without gloves.  

As I stood there and fought back the urge to make my getaway, I couldn't help but notice these awesome moms/kids taking care of business (with their bare hands😳🙈) and enjoying their time together.  

Ummm...not wanting to go home feeling completely inadequate, I convinced myself to do the right thing and get my hands entire body dirty, as well.  

So...I...did, and I survived.  AND, my family is having the freshest chicken dinner and salad (compliments of Plum Fabulous farm). AND, I will never look at chicken the same way ever again.  AND, I may never eat it again either. 

Let me be honest, I much preferred picking the lettuce from their beautiful garden over bird duty, but I've been invited back...and next time I won't be such a   

chicken!

I obviously couldn't document the entire process from start to finish because I HAD BLOOD AND CHICKEN PARTS ON MY HANDS😝😝😝.