a first masterpiece

We set up the finger paints and had a go. Harkin was a bit unsure at first but when he saw his big brothers painting he followed suit. He had lots of fun. The boys made signs for their dad while Harkin created a wonderful painting. 

Years ago William used to not like to finger paint, he didn't like the paint on his fingers, but now that is all changed. It was fun to watch the older boys get into as much as a 15 month old.

We have had these same finger paints forever. They were a bit thin. My goal this summer is to use what we have and to create on a more regular basis. Like everyday would be nice. Early in the morning when everyone is fresh really is the best time- but it is also the best time for so many other things, so we will try to fit it in when we can.

dairy parade

Two weekends ago the big dairy festival was going on in the next town over. Landon and Eric were out of town for the day so William, Harkin and I went to enjoy the sights. Harkin was very much into watching everything. By the time the parade was over he was waving to all the participants. It was a nice way to spend a Saturday morning.

shelburne museum

We went to the home school day here at Shelburne museum. They had different workshops throughout the day. Some of the things we learned about were contra dancing, the food chain, bartering goods, a printing press, pulleys, and were even judges sending criminals to jail.

The museum is made up of old buildings that were meant for destruction but instead were saved and all moved to these beautiful grounds. After all the workshops we just went for a walk to check out all the other buildings. They each had a theme, such as circus, blacksmith, art galleries, a lighthouse, a gun collection, vintage toys, etc. The shuttle tour guide(because you know we had to try it our) summed it up pretty nicely. It is a collection of collections. We thought of how much our Grammy would enjoy it- a visit during the summer is needed though since it is only open May- October(hint, hint).

We ended the day with several rides on the carousel. The big boys were so excited for Harkin to go on it. It was a long day but full of fun and excitement.

doings at home

Our days at home can be so good.

I had wanted to have our very own garden this year but we just do not have a space that gets very much sun, so I started to look for CSA's. To our luck we found one that was our neighbor. So the boys take the wagon across the street and fill up on our fresh veggies. I made mint iced  tea all week long with the fresh mint. I think it is our new favorite summer drink.

There has been fort building and research on the computer on how to make star wars origami figures. Sparked by a book series that he is reading.

Many days I fret that we don't do enough- more book learning I think- but when I truly relax I can see all the learning in just living this wonderful life of ours. And we all have a bit more fun together. Which is what I really want, for us to be a close family that enjoys being together.

fun with shaving cream

We have been hosting an activity/play day here with a group of our close friends. This week we were making marbleized paintings with shaving cream. Harkin really wanted to get in on the action, so we set him up on his own little table. Oh, the fun he had. He was just so excited. It was so great to watch him. I just love days like this.

first bike ride (memorial day)

So we were all excited about going for the first bike ride of the season. It took us Eric a little bit to get everyone's bike in order. I haven't ridden mine in almost 2 years. We were finally ready........

 

 OK so maybe not everyone was happy about it. Once we actually started riding he stopped crying and was very happy. He even fell asleep for a little while. Really.

We are hoping for more family bike rides as the summer goes on. There are several bike trails around that we would like to explore.

sunday smiles

I have been finding Harkin in this chair so often as he sits and reads to himself. It is so wonderful to see him loving books. He wants to be just like everyone else in the house. He was pointing and moving his lips as he looked through the books. Just amazing.