Great First Days, Food Thanks, Weather

Of so much that has blossomed in our first three days together, here are some of the many aspects I appreciate: children mixing freely together, a great comfort of older children and younger children playing together, veterans of the school with new students playing together, boys and girls playing together; a general contentedness with what is happening now mixed with an eagerness for what is next; strength and willingness to move ahead as we have taken far longer hikes than I anticipated we'd be ready for so soon; a pleasant rhythmic oscillation between more active and vigorous play and more quiet play, a sense of balance; a general comfort with using words and problem solving when conflicts arise; a willingness to put conflicts aside in the interest in having fun now; cohesiveness in the forest that allows us to walk and play and explore together while giving each other space; a willingness to challenge oneself at just the right level (reaching a new milestone without being reckless), whether climbing a tree or rock, hanging, crawling, running, jumping, and more.

Thanks you for providing an abundance and variety of food. Many children have feasted on the variety of juice, smoothies, crunchy foods, sweet fruits, and hearty nut and seeds and dips. All children have found something they like. It is wonderful if we can keep this pace.

Last week (with just the oldest children) I cancelled a walk in the woods for the first time in 6 years because of lightning; I had a long, Norwegian folk tale I wanted to tell, so the time was good. This week we have not needed rain gear. Thank you for having gear ready. While shorts will likely be more than enough for tomorrow, early morning cool or damp weather can be with us at any time. After September 29, we will wear rain boots and gear every day.

With appreciation,

William