Sprouts: October 16, 2025
Morning Fire and Familiar Favourites
The kids arrived bundled up. Our mornings are definitely getting chilly now! I had a fire going, and before long someone asked if we could make applesauce again. So we did. And pancakes! And hot dogs! Why not?
They took turns mixing batter and cooking pancakes over the fire. It turned into such a cozy morning, everyone chatting, telling stories, singing a bit, and just enjoying being together around the fire.
Feathered Friends
The blue jays were out and about again, getting braver each week. They came in close for their peanuts, giving us a great view of their beautiful feathers. We even had a visit from a downy woodpecker, which was fun to spot.
Imagination in Full Swing
After breakfast, the pretend play took off. Lucy (my black lab) was cast as a black bear, and she played her part well! One boy declared he was a witch, which of course meant the mud kitchen instantly became a potion lab.
We took the play over to the playground, where they decided to build a home for an animal. It ended up involving several splashes of a “Home Comforts Potion.” I didn’t ask what was in it, but it looked very powerful.
Heron Flights and Leaf Piles
At the playground, everyone burned off some energy jumping in leaf piles, rolling down the hill (“Watch out for the loose boulders!”), and taking turns on “Heron Flights,” our forest school version of airplane rides. Lots of laughter and rosy cheeks by the end of it.
Lunch and River Explorations
After lunch in the sunny dome, we headed down to The Flats. At the bottom of the hill, the kids found a little mouse who had passed away. They were very gentle and curious about it, wondering what might have happened and taking a quiet moment to look before moving on.
Down by the river, our duck friends showed up, including brave old Leo, the one missing feathers on his left wing. A highlight of the day was when one explorer found a crayfish under a rock; he quickly learned how strong its little pinchers can be!
Following Curiosity
We decided to wander farther along the river than usual, following it toward Troll Bridge. The kids noticed pavers under the water and decided it must be a secret sidewalk for underwater creatures. We didn’t make it all the way before it was time to head back, but it’ll be something to look forward to next time.
Wrapping Up
It was one of those perfect fall days. Fire, food, friends, and a good mix of laughter and adventure. Thanks for a great day, Sprouts!
