Grandparents' Day 2014

I probably say this every year, but this one felt like it was one of the best Grandparents' Day we've had. The kids did SUCH a great job on their class song (This Land is Your Land)...but have you heard about their incredible finale? Wow...they blew us away and had us in tears when they sang "God Bless the USA". Mrs. Jacobs video taped our class song for us, so as soon as I get that from her, I'll post it. I have asked the school to post the finale video, perhaps on our website. Whatever happens, I'll be sure to get the link to you:) 

In the meantime, enjoy the photos below. It was such a blessing to have the grandparents and relatives in our classroom! We had 3 stations: Make Your Own Trail Mix and Interview Your Grandparent Station, Double Dice Math Competition Station, and...keep scrolling until you get to the last station...

...the Let It Shine Photo Booth station! I absolutely love the goofiness and fun that came out! I hope these pictures will make you smile :) 

My favorite part was the end of our classroom time when the kids got to present all of the Bible verses that they have memorized so far. It was great to share God's Word as a gift to them, and to explain some of the Gospel to them as well. 

My heart was moved to hear the children's tenderness as they earnestly prayed for their grandparents, and blessed them in a very special way as they thanked the Lord for them. 

I'm telling you...your kids are simply amazing. 

Riley's Farm

Our field trip to Riley's Farm was WONDERFUL! We could not have asked for better weather. 

The children learned A LOT about life in the colonial days. Below are some photos from the various stations that we visited. 

First, we learned about proper manners. George Washington's Rules of Civility were followed by the early settlers...there were 110 rules that he listed when he was only 16 years old. 

The ladies even learned how to capture the attention of the gentlemen by fanning themselves and batting their eyes:) 

What a proper bow to the lovely lady!

And what a beautiful curtsy in response.

We also enjoyed a demonstration of social dancing!

Next, the children learned how to weave using the loom.

Goose feathers were used to write letters. The children had the chance to use the quill and ink, and dated their paper as October 13, 1775.

The station after that was butter-churning. Wow, the colonists had to work super hard for all of the things that we take for granted today!

We even got to dip our own candles, too! 

It was great to see the students enjoying some outdoor games of the olden days. I hope they got a small taste of the fun they can have without computer games!

These apples were used for the apple cider pressing demonstration. 

THANK YOU to all of the parents and grandparents who came with us today. I hope you sleep well tonight:) 

As for me, I'm about to go and get some whip cream and vanilla ice cream, warm up my Riley's Farm Apple Pie, and go to my happy place!!!!!