the great apple experiment

 Every time we go to the store the kids argue about what kind of apples we buy.  So we decided to buy one of every kind and taste test them.  Now the kids are super confident about the types of apples they like.  And they don't agree on any one kind.  I don't think my plan worked very well!

And we're back to homeschooling.  I guess old habits die hard.  It's not that we didn't like public school.  The teachers were nice.  The kids were friendly.  The free time was intoxicating.  Seriously.  I think we're just used to setting our own schedule and learning at our own pace.  I thought I was the one hanging onto homeschooling but it shocked me when Bennett was the one who pulled the plug on public school. I think the experience was positive enough to leave that option out there for another day. 

I spent 2 days cutting a 3x8 foot area of sod.  It was hot.  95 deg hot.  And it was hard.  Bennett decided on going a different route.  I like his route.  And anytime he complained about the sod cutter, I was there to defend it.  Because I knew the alternative.

 Along the way he found a buddy.

 By the end of it, Bennett was just fine with moving over and letting the hens have a go.

Public school.

And yes, they had a great day and I am totally lost without them.  I guess that's how it's supposed to be.  I hung on to homeschooling too long.  If we need to do it again, I know that we can. 

Nathan

 

 Nathan has never been conventional when it comes to his birthday.  I think he likes to see me go the extra mile and make him feel special.  He also LOVES fruit.  So he was super excited about his birthday 'cake' and his fruit 'pizza'.

 

 So were the rest of us!

 It definitely pays to have a birthday in August when one wants a fruit 'cake'. 

 

 These are just some extra pictures I felt like posting.  Nathan loves legos and wanted a picture of himself with his creation.

 This used to be a 25 lbs box of peaches.  Hmm.  I'm pretty sure he put a large dent in them!  I wasn't opposed to making a large dent myself.  He has been asking me for peaches all summer.

 A picnic at the new sprinkler park.  And yes, I was scammed.  "Mommy, make us a picnic.  Please.  So we can go play at the sprinkler park."  I did and brought a book along.  They ate.  I read a page or two.  And then they wanted to leave.  Bennett said it was because my picnics are soo yummy.  I'm sure it was all for the cake.

 Can I just say how much I love this little guy!  And I love his birthday cuddling.

 He had a blast playing in the sprinkler.

 But he loves watching his sibling and the dog getting wet a whole lot more.  And the more he laughed the more they were willing to entertain him!