Chicago's Field Museum

We went to the Field Museum today and got totally overwhelmed. At least I did. Amazing how many animal names the kid's remembered. Their grandparents were impressed. :)

Visiting a Wetland

To wrap up our study of wetlands, we went to a local nature center that had a pond with a walkway. The kids successfully identified the green stuff on top of the pond as duckweed! I was very proud. Since it was fall, we were unable to spot much wildlife. Too bad...we'll have to visit again in the spring!

In Search of Cattails

Our science journal put us on assignment...to find some cattails. Not too far from our home was a drainage area that had developed a small wetland! It was a little too late to see any wildlife since summer was over.

Lots of cattails!

Pretending to be in the desert

Throwing some rocks

Supervising...

Fall Cupcakes

"First you take caramels and roll them into a ball."

"Momma washes the leaves and covers them with colored chocolate."

"Dip the caramels into the chocolate..."

"...then into the sprinkles."

"Ta-da!! You have acorns!"

Little One cheered them on...and wanted one!

The finished product. A yummy display of cupcakes celebrating FALL!!!!

A Visit To The Zoo

Our local zoo developed a new indoor play area. We had to try it out! Of course, we had to visit the animals while we were there. It was a beautiful day to go to the zoo!

See the black bear in the background?

Penguins...

Zebras...

I wonder if they want to be veterinarians one day?

Little One sorts the vegetables...or makes a bigger mess?

My kids have turned into animals!!!!

Grandfather Mountain

What a perfect day! We tried to go to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina two days ago and we couldn't even get to the gate!

Our first stop after lunch was the Nature Center. There we found white-tailed deer, otters, black bears, and mountain lions. The kids were so excited to see the animals they just studied.

After that, we went to the top of the mountain where the Mile-High Swinging Bridge was located. The view was clear and beautiful!

First Day Of School!

I had to get a picture of everyone as we started the first day of our school year 2010-2011.
Here's my Kindergartener...

My Pre-Schooler...

My Toddler...

And me.