Thankfully, Hamilton is able to make or fix just about anything, and he doesn't mind the kids observing his projects and asking a zillion questions. One afternoon, as I watched the faces of my children watching their daddy repair the lawn mower, I realized they probably took more away from the mechanics lesson than anything they did with me in school that morning. Yes, reading and arithmetic are important, but don't under estimate the lessons to be learned from lawnmowers, squeaky dryers, broken ice makers, attic shelves...
The kids love to tag along with daddy on trips to Lowes. I never know what random item they may bring home from their outing, but it is always something hands-on the kids would enjoy helping with. Last time, they returned with some kid projects to do together while I was at a meeting. They had a great time assembling these little crafts and were so proud to show them off to me when I got home!
Daddy has been gigging for a few years now, but he has recently also developed an interest in scuba diving/spearing fish. Of course the kids are fascinated with all the new gear and thought it was hysterical when he got stuck in his wet suit. He is great about thoroughly explaining his hobbies to the kids, and he welcomes their participation. Belle recently went gigging with daddy and granddaddy, and she couldn't stop talking about their successful adventure. She also gained a lot of knowledge about the river, fish and the hobby. Although she stayed up until after 11:00pm "on a school night," I just accounted for some tiredness and made the next morning's schedule lighter. Such is the beauty of homeschooling! Glad daddy snapped a picture of her excitement out in the boat!
Although daddy works a lot, we are able to work around his schedule for family time because of we are not tied to traditional school hours. If he is home on a weekday morning, our school usually looks a little different. Sometimes daddy helps instruct our kindergartner or sometimes we just play a little more. One such slow day, our persistent kids persuaded daddy to put on some camouflage for a game they had in mind. He usually does indulge them, especially in their love of playing board games.
We recently enjoyed a fun family lunch at a Japanese steakhouse to celebrate Hamilton's 34th birthday. I am so blessed to have such a supportive hubby!
