Hard Work, Creativity, & Generosity

As Spring sprung forth, the frenzy of activity in our family's life reached yet another peak.

Maya had many rehearsals for Ballet West Academy's Spring production.  It was a splendid three-day run, with many impressive performances by dancers ages 8-20.  I am always heartened when teachers allow children to reach beyond expectation.  The level of technique demonstrated by these students was tremendous, and I felt honored to be in the audience, as the experience was authentically breath-taking.  Not something generally said about a school recital, but repeated by everyone I talked to who had attended. 

After a long week of late nights at the theater, a dip in our friend's neighborhood pool was delightful.  We are fortunate to be part of the Carlson "surrogate" family. 

Chad and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary in Idaho, courtesy of another set of amazingly generous friends.

Maya was so excited to sleep in a loft!

We biked around Redfish Lake, and enjoyed the stunning scenery.

Peaceful moments are great gifts to young and old alike.  Though we could have used this visit to Idaho to reinforce factual concepts learned through our home school, this time we took an opportunity to quietly contemplate.  Here and there I may have directed notice to an interesting rock, mass of moss, cloud, or sap-exuding tree, but no quizzing ensued.  As an always-learning, always-teaching sort of person, sometimes it's hard for me to be still mentally (and physically).  But it was easy in Idaho.

I'm not a trained birder, but I am very interested in these descendants of dinosaurs.  Ravens and crows seem to follow us wherever we go, often making me think of Native American spirit animal tales.  Idaho was no exception to this recurring experience.  But this time we also were visited by 3 ospreys.  The birds were taking advantage of easy prey at a fish hatchery pond.  Watching the ospreys dive into the water was breathtaking.  Listening to them communicate with one another was fascinating, as well.

A bald eagle also flew overhead and circled for a bit, but was too high for my camera to capture adequately.

Maya wanted to learn about fishing, so Chad put on his grandpa's fishing outfit, got out the antique gear, and gave it a whirl.

Maya was terribly concerned about not hurting the fish, and also about what sort of bait to use.  Being a life-long vegan, it's difficult for her to avoid thinking about such matters, which is a good thing, but I've always encouraged her to follow what her heart tells her.  I personally think the most important ethical act a human can perform is truly conscious decision-making.

In our historical studies, Maya has learned much about the impact of the environment on culture, and how in contemporary times we sometimes forget how tied to the land people have mostly been.  I thought it was good for her to experience this primeval activity, to develop greater empathy for our ancestors and for those on earth now with limited mobility and opportunity.  And, of course, she could catch and release! 

Namaste, little fish.  Thank you for helping my daughter learn.  And good work, Chad, at helping Maya release so quickly!  Boy, did that fish swim fast!