indian day.

One of the best parts about homeschooling is getting to do it alongside dear friends and their children.  One of my sweetest friends is a homeschooling mom of five little ones.  She has been a trusted guide and patient mentor as I've pummeled her with question after question about the ins and outs of homeschooling.  This summer, amongst our chatter of curriculum and scheduling and theory and the like, we decided we would plan several outings for our kids to do together throughout the year.  It is always so much more fun to go on adventures with other people, and they are some of our favorite people to adventure with!

Yesterday was a highlight of our year so far for sure.  We planned a little morning of Thanksgiving fun and activities for the kids to enjoy.  And enjoy it they (and we!) did.

We started the morning reading "The First Thanksgiving" and talking a bit about the Pilgrims and Indians and why we celebrate Thanksgiving.  Then it was off to transform ourselves into Indians by making traditional Indian vests, hats, and arrows!

Once we were fully into our Indian gear, the boys headed outside to bob for apples and pop corn over the open fire.

Next we worked on our rock climbing skills and shared the things for which we gave thanks to God.  We hung our thankful leaves on our Thanksgiving tree.

Pretty soon the boys heard there was trouble lurking.  A buffalo herd was encroaching on their territory!  They took off with their arrows, ready for a hunt.  After putting on their best hunting faces, they were able to swarm the herd and took down two big buffalo.

 They roasted the buffalo meat and then settled down for some popped corn straight from the fire.

The morning was a success!  Our little Indians had a great time.  We can't way to celebrate Thanksgiving with our friends again next year.