Wolfe Lodge - Extreme Makeover

As mentioned in the last post, we have been enjoying super weather here.  It feels like fall with much cooler temperatures, much lower humidity, and nice breezes blowing.  It's a beautiful time to live in the woods, and the kids have been taking full advantage of it. 

You've seen earlier pictures of Wolfe Lodge, but the most recent spurt of activity from this little nook of our woods has been filled with home improvements, new creations, and hours of "labor". 

Some of the many recent improvements are:  wild grape vines trained to cover the back of the fort, an irrigation tube that allows water to be poured out from inside, a system that collects and filters rain water and runs inside, a kitten play area, indoor fall decorations, an outdoor grill and roasting area, a window, and always more waterproofing.  

This day they were working on their mosaic tile factory, creating clay tiles to later paint and use in their fort (yes, we've been studying Greek and Roman mosaics in school!).  They were "crushing" dirt, filtering it through the butterfly nets, adding bits of water, then forming and cutting tiles.  You can see all the itty bitty tiles on the boards between Johanna and Ami.  Lots of tedious and dirty work!

Benjamin fashioned a water bowl for Twix, complete with name etched on the side.

Elijah is busy "crushing' dirt to smooth it out for the tiles.

I never tire of watching this bunch play together and seeing what creative things they come up with.  Over this last year we have really made an effort at cutting back on our extra curricular activities.  That has included church activities, sports, home school group activities, and other things we have found we can say "no" to.  It has been a refreshing break and has allowed us more time together as a family.  We haven't cut out all extra activities, and we sure still have plenty of things to fill our calendar, but the difference in our schedules has been certain, and the difference in time spent on relationships at home has been rewarding.

P.S.  Michaela heads out to Wolfe Lodge once in a while to give ideas and encouragement.  :)  Also, I must try to get a video that better shows off some of their lodge improvements!