We have been enjoying the outdoors for the last few weeks, learning that with the severe winters you enjoy the nice weather when you can! We are all slightly bronzed with the sun, and have our fair share of bug bites to prove it. We enjoyed the town's Memorial Parade, the lake's sandy beaches, the strawberries in the side yard, and gardening and outdoor fun as much as possible.
Safety first Noah!
We attended a birthday party at the Ft Rickey Game farm in Rome, NY and the kids enjoyed the hands on feeding and petting the animals. 
Here is our garden in the back of the house. I have been noticing that pretty much everything I planted has been growing, and I am amazed! 
As I was trying the weed in the heat today I found myself wondering why I was so surprised that things were actually growing. We worked hard to get the land cleared, pick out the seeds, plant them, and maintain. The only thing I couldn't control was the most important part, the growing of the seed. God in His wisdom used this illustration to point out a weakness that I have. I try very hard to keep control of the things around me, which I am sure has it's place, but overall God is still in control of everything. I have to admit, as much as I am ready for homeschooling, the thought of it scares me. I can prepare the material, the space, and set the goals, but only God can see inside the children's heart and grow and teach the most important parts. And there is where I need to let go, and let grow :-)