Away to Play

A few weeks ago, our family took a trip to Navarre, Florida to hang out at the beach, explore and spend time with Grandparents. We had a great time relaxing and playing.

The coast offers great learning opportunities. The kids like searching for critters and inspecting new finds.

 

One of our favorite hang-outs is in Destin, Florida. We enjoy snorkeling and playing in the calm waters of Jetties East. The water is beautiful and crystal clear. The sun and tide cause the water to change from emerald blue to green-brown. It's fun to sit on the beach and watch the gradual change in the water. This quiet place is becoming popular,  but if  you go in the early evening, the beach becomes a private oasis.

 

 

Much of our time in Florida is spent at Navarre Beach/Gulf Islands National Seashore . We happened to be visiting during the off-season, so the beach was quiet and spacious, besides the day the sea slugs invaded. The link for Gulf Islands Seashore is filled with information about the area, as well as a link to homeschooling ideas and plans.

 

Hermit crabs are easy to catch at the Jetties.

 Papaw and Samuel had a good time waiting to be seated for dinner.

While on our trip, we took the opportunity to experience a history lesson. Fort Pickens was built in the 1800's to protect Pensacola Bay and the Navy Yard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eli has been collecting Junior Ranger books. His aunt gathered books for him while she travelled out West. The Junior Ranger program gives children the opportunity to learn about the park they are visiting, while also learning to preserve and care for it.  

 

Fort Pickens was also used during WWII. We took time to explore the batteries around the park.

 

 

We relaxed, explored, visited and played. When we returned home, the weather was a bit cooler and the feel of Autumn was in the air. The familiar smells and sights welcomed us home. Or, shall I say, the goats and chickens welcomed us home. We are happy to be home and settled back into our routines. We've made beautiful memories and are looking forward to making more. Plus, I already miss my ma.

 

The last two pictures were from a fun competition Da and I were having. We wanted to see who took a better sunset shot.