Tennant Lake

Last week Garreth was in northern Alaska for work, and by Friday we were really missing him something fierce.  So after school we tried to distract ourselves by going walking around Tennant Lake.  

But before heading onto the trail, we took our time at the lovely Fragrance Gardens.  

Everything planted there has a strong scent and is marked with little signs so you can tell what plant it is as you lean over to smell it.

It is a very fun place to explore.

Then it was onto the boardwalk for our walk. 

Tennant Lake is not so much a lake as wetlands, so most of the mile-long loop is on a boardwalk and over little bridges.  

The signs say there are many cranes, frogs, beavers, and other animals, but let's face it, they hear our little family from a mile away and have plenty of time to hide!

We spent a lot of time studying water-skipper bugs, and Grace tried in vain to catch a fish.

We are blessed to live in a place with so many places to indulge our young naturalists' curiosity.

Daily Walk

With the kids back in school, the little boys and I have restarted our daily morning walks.  After we put Grace and Liam on the bus, we load up the stroller and set out.  I love the sweet conversations with these two.  Sometimes Declan even makes up a song for us on the way.

We walk until we get to one of our favorite places ever,

and when we reach the trailhead, the boys are set free.

The trail loop is about 3/4 mile, the perfect length for two year old legs.

We watch for signs of fall,

and pet mossy logs,

and study mushrooms

and plants.

We look at spiderwebs,

and stop in the trail to build things with sticks, pine needles, and leaves.

Sam balances on fallen trees,

and practices his bull riding

and mutton busting.

Then it's back in the stroller for a snack

and home we go.

First Day of School

Grace's first day of 4th grade.

Liam's first day of 2nd grade.

Sniff.

Sam's First Day of Preschool

Today was Sam's first day of preschool.  It was a "getting to know you" day, so parents got to come with the kids, and Sam and I had a great time exploring his new school, Christ Lutheran Preschool.  I tried not to get too emotional, but I was just so proud watching him.  He was so grown-up and cute! 

He loved playing on the very fun playground.

We met lots of new friends,

and his teacher, Mrs. Johnson.

Circle time.  (This is where I began crying at how big my little boy has gotten.  Would you just look at how darn CUTE he is?!)

Lining up to wash hands.

Snack time.

I don't know how he's going to make it until next week, when he gets to go back all by himself.  He is so excited!