Strawberries and Chickens

What better way to instill in a child the joy of eating food from your backyard than by growing strawberries?!?  Last year, I set out several plants, fed them kelp and alfalfa meal, and covered them with pine straw.  This spring--voila!--a bumper crop of strawberries, which we have enjoyed devouring and sharing with others.

Fresh picked strawberries

Fresh strawberries for Papaw's birthday present

We also got a new batch of chicks this spring to replace all the chickens I had to cull over the winter because of an infectious bronchitis outbreak.  Luckily, my pet banty hen--Hoecake--never contracted the infection.  Thomas and I have been enjoying spoiling her with meal worms.

Thomas and the little diddles

Thomas and Hoecake

Here, have a meal worm!

Kindermusik Graduation and Theatrical Debute

After almost 7 years in the program, Thomas graduated from Kindermusik this spring.  For his recital, he played a song on three instruments:  "Spring is Coming" on the glockenspiel; "Hot Cross Buns" on the recorder; and "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" on the dulcimer.  We both will miss our weekly trips to Princeton Arts Center and all the wonderful teachers Thomas has had over the years--Miss Sonya, Miss Jodie, and Miss Jennifer.  I think Thomas will especially miss getting rewarded with candy when he plays a song (something Mommy does NOT do at home!)  

The Kindermusik graduates with Miss Jodie and Miss Jennifer.

The obligatory "silly pose."

This spring, Thomas also made his theatrical debut as a hyena in the Jonesborough Repertory Theater's production of "The Lion King."  Performing on stage was a huge challenge for Thomas, though the maniacal laugh of his character seemed to come natural to him!

Thomas and fellow hyenas Caiden and Joseph

Thomas and some of his homeschooling buddies at a JRT play--"Commedia Dell' Robin Hood"

Scouting Adventures

Thomas has been enjoying following in his Daddy's footsteps as an enthusiastic Boy (Cub) Scout.  Here are some photos of his recent adventures.

PINEWOOD DERBY

Thomas's car--"Zeppelin Train"--raced 15 times and won 13 of the races!  

He couldn't resist putting a Lego man driver on the car.

Thomas and "Zeppelin Train"

All the derby participants

KNOXVILLE ZOO FIELD TRIP

In March, Thomas and his pack visited the Knoxville Zoo and learned some really cool facts about animals--Did you know that a beaver's anal glands smell like vanilla?

Thomas posing with a fierce bronze reptile

CUB SCOUT CAMP

In June, Thomas participated in a week-long Cub Scout camp where he sharpened his archery and hot-dog eating skills.

Watch out Robin Hood and William Tell!

Thomas gloating about eating a hotdog and fries.

Racing hex bugs

ONE GOOD TURN

A good Scout is a community servant.  

This year, Thomas and I began volunteering at the Kitchen of Hope, a local charity that provides meals for those who need them. Thomas particularly enjoys handing out the desserts!

Would you like a cookie?