The Gift of Brotherhood

We're just about two months into this homeschooling journey and it never ceases to amaze me the fluctuations in our good and bad days. When we have good days, they're really good; and when we have bad days...well, they're really bad. At least it seems that way to me.

We've hit this stride of realization that this, in fact, is our reality. The "newness" of the situation has worn off a bit for all of us and often times I have to remind myself that I'm still learning. I don't have to have it all figured out. It's ok to not know. We'll learn as we go.

I've noticed that there are two things that play a large role in which side of the fence our day falls on. Those two things are:

1. A good and predictable "rhythm and flow" of our day (I've learned that this is essential regardless of if we're homeschooling or not).

2. A laid-back approach and the self-assurance that what we're doing is "enough".

Generally speaking, when we all get outside for fresh air and exploration, we're simply bound to have a better day.

Today, that meant we hiked up the road to the county park.

There's a dirt road that's covered in rocks, perfect for rock-throwing into the stream that runs through the park. One thing is for sure - these two boys could be occupied for hours throwing rocks (and other various things) into the water.

Now before you think our days are filled with wandering mindlessly around the countryside (which wouldn't be all that bad in my opinion), our morning was comfortably packed with morning chores, a hearty breakfast, reading, a main lesson, some of the Little House on the Prairie series on audio CD, dog walking, chicken feeding and some math practice.

Aside from all the technicalities of the day, mostly it's fun to see the boys' relationship develop and grow each and every day. I recall, not that long ago, I worried (as I do about most things) about if it was to Odin's "disadvantage" to spend a majority of his time with his 4-year-old brother. I wondered, "would it developmentally delay him?", "would he learn to interact only at a 4-year-old level?", and so on. Then the Hubs looked at me blankly and said in a very straightforward and simple way, "Sarah, they're brothers." That's all it took to quickly remind of how I just need to chill out. It's NEVER a bad thing to spend time with those you love - especially your only brother.

So, today...hiking through ditch puddles...

...and, finding "slugs" amidst the slimy moss...

...and discussing the numerous things that could get tossed into the flowing stream (naturally discovering what sinks, what floats, what makes big splashes and what makes smaller ones).

After some solid time outside, we headed back home to do the afternoon Waldorf lesson, paint, and read a book off of our library reading list. We finished up with some yoga, stretching and "shaking our sillies out".

Needless to say, I'm happy to report that I've stopped worrying about if spending time together is at any disadvantage (or advantage for that matter) to either of them. They are brothers. Some days they are each other's best friend and other days they can't stand each other, but it's all a lesson in relationships and social interaction. Regardless of age, I'm happy they get to discover that together.

I only hope they will look back at this time in their lives someday and remember the wonderful memories they had together - just being brothers.

#Family #Nature #familytime #Homeschool #Explore #Outdoors #simplethings