Today we went to kidart--it is always such an enjoyable time.  The kids really love their classes plus we get to go TOGETHER which allows for special time with just MOM.  Nana went with us today and we always have a great time with her too. 

After Kidart, we went to the fairgrounds for the local farm festival.  This was a very exciting and educational homeschool fieldtrip.  We saw lots of animals and got to touch every one that we saw including:  sheep, pigs, goats, cows.  The local zoo even brought a few animals--alligator baby, snake, and Macaw.  We saw how wool is spun into yarn.  We saw some men carving wood sculptures.  We learned about water polution and poison safety.  The county sheriff AND state police were there handing out badges, stickers, safety coloring books, and of course temporary tattoos.  The kids were in heaven.  We saw what soybeans, wheat, oats, and corn looks like after it is grown and then as seeds.  We saw several beekeepers with honey samples.  We even got to choose a plant seed and plant it in a little paper cup--of course all the kids chose pumpkin seeds.  The man who helped us plant them said to keep them in the cup until the first week of May or so and then plant them outside--I think we will have them grow up our fence.  We will see what happens.  I just love it when there is something going on that is really worthwhile and educational at the same time as the kids are having a BLAST!  The best part of the whole experience--it was FREE!!!!

I have been looking at the Titus2 website and I think I am getting interested in their products.  They offer all kinds of organizational ideas and tips.  Their newest book called Keepers of Their Chores shows you how to organize kids' chores and get them to actually do them.  Their other book Managers of the Home shows you how to organize and plan a family schedule, which sounds good to me, but I'm not sure if I really want a schedule or not and whether or not the kids will even respond to one.  I would appreciate any advice anyone could give  me on this subject.

On the other hand, I need ideas for my DS first b-day party.  I don't generally do a huge party for them when they turn 1, but we have so many family members who live close by esp. on hubby's side who want a party, so I need some original ideas.  I don't want to overwhelm the little tyke and would like to have a quiet, home party--so any quiet, easy, inexpensive ideas would be welcome. 

I think that's all for today--have a good one!