Our first "official" homeschooling field trip was to Kingdom Kids Farm in Connecticut. It's a great family run farm with excellent workshops, specializing in homeschool visits. You can click on this photo to visit their facebook page for more information.

The kids loved visiting with and learning all about Dwarf Nigerian Goats.

The kids had so much hands on experience at Kingdom Kids Farm. Here Jake is milking a goat, assisted by Mrs. Lyon, who does a wonderful job teaching the kids. *And the children ;)

One of the mama goats had to have a C-section delivery. Because of that, she abandoned her babies. The Lyons hand fed the newborns, who are thriving. The visiting families got to share in the joy of feeding them as well.

Did I mention our Rebekah is terrified of anything with fur that is alive? Daddy gets a good workout wherever we go.

Jacob's not though. Can't get enough of every member of the animal kingdom we visit. Thinking farmer or vet with this guy. Maybe goat whisperer?

Stinker & Doodle got to jump right in and try their hand at making goat's milk soap. They were so proud of their finished products. :)

As part of her Little Flowers group, Rebekah visited with the Little Sisters of the Poor at the Jean Jugan Residence in Pawtucket, RI. It was an amazing experience. The girls joined the residents for mass in their beautiful chapel. They got to do the readings and sang the Communion hymn. They also served lunch to the residents, and made a few new best friends for life. I've never visited a nursing home so overflowing with love, hope, and happiness.

Rebekah served lunch along with her friends to the residents of the Jean Jugan Residence. This lovely lady was quite smitten with her, and the two became fast friends.

The kitchen staff was so sweet and helpful. The food is all cooked fresh at the residence. Here, Rebekah waits for a hot bowl of soup to serve residents. This moment made me realize I could trust her with a little more at home. She didn't spill one drop :)

Rebekah and friends took menu orders from the residents, then gave the order to the sisters and staff, and in turn, served the meals to the residents. (There were about a dozen girls. I just don't want to share other children's photos here without permission).

"... you gave me to eat." Sister Maria was a wonderful teacher and guide. Her gentle, yet non-babying manner with the girls gave them strength and confidence. I was touched to see my little one bloom under such wise mentorship.

Rebekah enjoyed her visit at the Jean Jugan Residence so much, she proclaimed, "I want to be a waitress when I grow up." Ok. Well, I had hoped that homeschooling would inspire grander dreams. But I'm glad she has a heart for service. It was, indeed, a very special afternoon.

The grounds of the Jean Jugan Residence are so serene and peaceful. One would never know that we were in the midst of the inner city. Residents have a save haven to enjoy, and the children who visit are welcome to picnic, play, and enjoy the company of their new friends.

We met up with some of our dear friends from Maine. They're another homeschooling family. We had the best day learning hands on at the Aquarium, seeing Great White Sharks at the 3-D Imax theater, and having lunch in the heart of Boston's historic district at Faneuil Hall.

The kids all enjoying hands on interaction with sharks and manta rays.

Having a fascinating lesson on turtles. They loved it.

Second generation friends for life!

Learning about Star Fish and Crabs

Up close and personal with the star fish and crabs!

Enjoying the hands on experience!