'16/17 Weeks 27 and 28

A lot can happen in two weeks. A boy can get a year older, for instance. Last week was a very sweet one for all of us. Andrew had cupcakes galore for his birthday and a four-layer cake for his party. He made all the calories disappear at the baseball try-outs. Yes, the season is about to begin again. 

Spring is here. Sometimes, it is more fun to do math outside.

First base at the try-outs.

I believe, they are readers. Enjoying a cup of hot chocolate and a good book.

A very special time in Texas.

Among other accomplishments this week, the children finished exploring all the 50 states. 

The beginning of many treats.

The Republic of Texas 181

Texas declared its independence from Mexico 181 years ago. We took a day trip to Washington-on-the-Brazos where the declaration of independence and the constitution of Texas were written in March 1836. 
The place was a beehive of activity - blacksmiths, potters, weavers, and other artisans were giving demonstrations of their crafts There were booths giving information about people and events surrounding the birth of Texas. And as a cherry on the top, we watched a play portraying the debates, arguments, discussions that went on between the delegates of the convention who signed the declaration and wrote the constitution. 

Inside the Independence Hall

An ox in training from the neighboring Barrington Living History Farm.

A scavenger hunt for answers inside the Star of Republic museum.

The children have seen the museum's exhibition a couple of times already, but there are always new things to discover or things we had missed before. 

Live music.

We learned how bonnets were made and used.

The inn had a welcoming fire burning.

I loved that the audience was included in the play as the 'delegates' and we got to say our Yays and Nays.

Sam Houston reading one of Travis's letters.

The last missive from Travis from Alamo.