S.T.A.R.S. Ranch Day

We started a tradition with our homeschool group last year to go to my parent's ranch as sort of an end of year celebration. One more big hoorah so to speak before everyone splits for the summer. This year we added on an overnight stay with a campfire as an option and I was very glad that a few families took us up on it. Before everyone else got there though, my kids got to play and enjoy their Uncle Adam.


I really thought he would make them sick as much as he spun them around, but they just kept begging for more. Crazy kids! :)



My brother's dog, Pepper, is learning to share her love with someone other than Adam. He is still number one of course, but the kids are beginning to get a pretty good reception as well.

When two of the three overnight families got there, we took the hayride trailer for it's maiden voyage. It was a beautiful night and between the sound of the motor from the tractor and the swaying of the trailer, we all got pretty relaxed.

Overnight family number three got there just in time to start the campfire. There was lots of giggling, playing and smores eatin'. Good times!

The next day started bright and early and the rest of the crew came. There were eight families in all...15 adults and 16 kids. Who says homeschoolers aren't socialized?! :) The kids played so well together. They dug in the dirt, pushed each other on the swings and let their imaginations run wild. We took another ride in the hayride wagon, did a scavenger hunt, and fished. This little man can catch just about anything with his bare hands. Last year he caught a baby turtle. :) This year, he found this net and he could get things a lot faster. He ended up with several minnows, a frog, and an empty turtle shell. You can't get much more hands on learning than that!

S.T.A.R.S. moms enjoying watching the kiddos have fun and interact.

Princess was very intrigued by the live minnows that were being caught and just had to play with them. I couldn't believe she was willing to hold them in her hands. She's always surprising me!

Mr. Alan supervising and helping anyone who needed help. He is the original "Mr. Fun".

Several people enjoyed the paddle boat but I think this dad was doing the work all by himself! :)

After fishing, we headed to shoot guns. Almost every kid tried it out and some liked it. Since my hubs couldn't get off work to join us this day, another dad helped Princess shoot. I didn't think she would like it much because it involves loud noises....

...and this time I was right.

More imagining going on....

This couple is super cute together. This was her first time to shoot and he was so good and patient with her. I think she ended up doing really well but I'm not real convinced she liked the loud noise either.

It was a wonderful day and yet another great reminder of what a blessing it is to be apart of this group. We get along well and enjoy the same things which makes these little gatherings a lot of fun. The kids learned things without even realizing it, grew friendships and the adults enjoyed some big people time. Thanks mom and dad for helping this happen! We love you!