Westward Ho! Trailblazing Pioneers

We started school two weeks ago and this year's school theme is: Westward Ho! Trailblazing Pioneers. It started off as a California History year, but when we found out the Christensens were moving to Utah (sob, sob!), we decided to turn it into a study of the western states. We introduced it to the kids by heading up to "Mormon Rocks"-a place founded by early Mormon pioneers in our area- and going on a little hike. As we hiked we stopped to tell stories of real pioneers and some of the lifeskills they needed to be successful on their journey.
Afterward, the kids each choose a western state that they will become an "expert" on by the end of the year. Tanner chose Idaho and Hunter chose Montana. We are excited to trailblaze through this school year!

The Big Boys

The Little Boys

I try not to be biased, but... These are my favorite two Trailblazers!

These trailblazers spent a day in the Channel Islands the day before starting school. Can't wait to explore more of California and the West this year!