The weather is hot, the garden is whithering,everyone is home from their travels and school has begun. That all said, I thought I would take a few moments to focus on some fun we had this summer while we were participating in "Summer Unschool". Unschooling is when you let your children pick and lead the activities they would like to experience and learn about.
This summer saw us staying up all night making cakes for the edible cake contest at our library. We travelled near and far but the most important, inspired, idea was the "Big Project."
This is the sort of project that you turn the pages of your idea book. You start drawing and designing on paper to evolve it into your own. You sleep with the book for further inspiration. You inspire those around you just because you are inspired. You build a team of helpers to share a project together.
We have been working on our big project all summer. Aunt Ruthie, cousin Gillian, mom and sisters all gathered to saw,glue,hammer,sand, and dream with a 10 year old boy. Ever since he was little he loved the movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. When we found the Buffy Porson book we knew we could build this. It has taken a lot of updating, since this book was written in 1973. The skills that Omi has learned will last him through his whole life., me too for that matter. They were the basics of measuring, pattern making, problem solving,construction, and confidence making.
I feel inspired watching all of my children learn that if you can think it you can make it happen. All of these sketches have now become a real tangible car. From his imagination to the garage floor. Very Cool and Very Real.
As with all big projects, this one needs a couple more weeks work but it's nothing a little painting,and mechanics can't fix. It's not how fast you make it, it's that you make it. We will show you the finished product in a couple of weeks. We are so excited!
I've been reading all of the unschooling families and enjoying their projects. This was such a great way to spend the summer. Much thanks to Eren over at Vintage Chica for organizing such a wonderful moment for all of us.
Happy Discoveries !
