school time

The first day back to school looked something like this.  We brought blocks, a book and ourselves outside and enjoyed some warm florida sunshine under Ian’s tent.  Ian was building an Age of Empires gate out of the cool blocks Sean got for Christmas.  They are architectural blocks with columns and arches and pediments and such from Melissa and Doug.  I think I wanted them for myself more than for the boys, but nonetheless they were used just as I thought. 

I am hesitant to use the word school, but don’t have another one to use for what it is that we are back to.  We had a break for two weeks because Daddy was home, some of the time, and family was here and we had late nights and parties to go to. The reading did not stop, the playing was still there and the learning was there too, just in a different way.  When I start to think of homeschooling as school and work and start wondering if we spend enough time “learning”, then I dread it; but when I think of it as a lifestyle, the reality is, there are no boundaries between learning time and not learning time (thanks Lori).  Check out Lori’s newest project all about nature and join the Flickr group and share pictures of your time outside.

I’m getting really excited about a project that is in the works, not by me, but by my Dad.  He’s working in his workshop and making a little something for a special little girl who’s turning two tomorrow.  Stay tuned for the reveal.  Not sure when that will be, but the spot is ready and waiting for the fine handiwork of my swell Dad.