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The Ultimate Tool

There are some tools that profess to be the ultimate tool–the thing that could do everything. While reading this library book about kettlebell workouts, I laughed at all that sandpaper could do to fix the handle. “Sandpaper is used for finishing touches to make the handles exactly as you like them to feel. If they are too rough, you can smooth them. If they are too smooth, you can rought them up a bit so you can find a better grip.
One minute to read

Your Family Wants You To Work Safely

While hiking in New River Gorge this summer, we saw this sign at the abandoned mine site of Kaymoor. A reminder to be safe. I found myself wondering, “Why do we need a reminder? Are we forgetting safety?” According to the National Park Service , which maintains the Kaymoor site, The mine site of Kaymoor One was once one of the most successful and highest producing mines in New River Gorge.
3 minutes to read

Invasive Problems

Do we actually have a problem? I have seen signs warning about the spotted lantern fly since 2019. This insect can be very damaging to agriculture. It wasn’t until September when I first saw just how invasive the lantern fly can be. While in Antietam National Battlefield, we went up into an observation tower. The ceiling was covered with lantern flies and they landed all over us. Unlike a housefly or a mosquito, they seemed to land without any attention to detail.
2 minutes to read

William Mckinley Presidential Library

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, is memorialized in a monument and museum in Canton, Ohio. Perhaps, like me, you struggle to remember any important facts about this president. Here are a few things I learned. McKinley served from March 4, 1897, until his assassination on September 14, 1901. Under McKinley’s leadership, the United States became one of the world’s colonial powers. After the Paris Peace Treaty was signed in 1898, the United States obtained Puerto Rico, Guam, and—for $20 million—the Philippine Islands.
3 minutes to read

Getting Started With Kindergarten

So, you’re interested in homeschooling your five-year-old? Here are a few ideas to consider. Homeschooling is not about choosing a curriculum. Homeschooling is about paying attention to your individual child and noticing what they need now while also anticipating what they will need in the future. Listen to the questions your child asks and allow that to be your guide. Consider not signing up for too many things outside of the house.
3 minutes to read

Math in Public Places

Here’s what is working for me right now: doing math in public places. Homeschoolers don’t need to do all the academics at home. One of my children has built up some fear and anxiety about math. Taking this child into a public place to do math is our key to success. Being away from home means the child is more committed to completing the one hour of study (since getting home is an “event” that involves a car ride.
One minute to read

Review of First Ladies National Historic Site

The First Ladies National Historic Site began in 1996 with a noble goal: increase awareness of the influence of the First Ladies. This site has two buildings that commemorate their contributions. We visited only the free visitor center and did not enter the Saxton House, which has an entrance fee. The museum is engaging. Children can view important historic relics and easily identify the time periods represented. Even better, though, are the hands-on displays upstairs.
3 minutes to read

Billy Goat Trail

The Billy Goat Trail is a hike we love to do multiple times each year. The hike follows the Potomac River right along the Stateline. In fact, even though you are in Maryland, you can see the visitors to the Great Falls Park on the Virginia side directly across the river and they’re even close enough for a conversation! We love getting to say “hi, Virginia!” and hearing their responses.
3 minutes to read

What Is a Community

While browsing a forgotten shelf of children’s books in a community college library, my child discovered this book about communities. Originally published in 1967, the book has a positive message overall, and my child enjoyed reading the way it summarized human’s transition to more permanent cities. There is a strong emphasis on teamwork and the importance of the contribution of each individual. The illustrations are engaging and have a fun pop of color.
2 minutes to read

Open-Mouthed Learning

The hungry baby birds are expecting their mother’s return. Did you know each bird needs at least 15 worms a day as they grow? On Mother’s Day, my neighbor offered to let us join him on his rounds for monitoring bluebird nests. My children were fascinated. We followed him around on his 40-minute walk to check six nesting boxes. At each box, he would approach carefully, stand safely to the side, and unscrew the front.
2 minutes to read
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