Feeling like Bird Brains

We don't choose themes--they choose us. Several things have come together this week leaving us with a flock of handmade birds.
First, we have started going to a Charlotte Mason homeschool group that is a terrific addition to our laid back waldorf-y style education; (very liberal arts friendly). The group meets every other week & there are loads of kids of all ages there. This is great for Naomi who thrives on the influence of well-behaved older children. (not saints, mind you, maybe just a little more mature). Anyhow, we learn traditional songs, study a major artist for a session, study & draw/paint different subjects, read poetry, etc. The first week we studied chickens--learned all about eggs, laying, life-cycle & someone even brought a hen to class--so neat!

The artist we're covering for this session is John J. Audobon, therefore birds. Most recently we learned about the cardinal.

Next week, the robin.

Several weeks ago we bought a Martha Stewart kit from Big Lots for $2. It's just pom-poms, felt scraps & a few pipe cleaners, but seemed like a simple thing for Naomi & I to do together. Well, I'm glad I did it because it came in handy & really flowed right in with the group study. Perhaps she'll want to bring her little Robin in to show next time.

& I've been meaning to pick up the needle-felting hobby for some time. & can I just say, it TOTALLY suits me. It's got everything--sculpture, natural fibers, danger, free-spirited material...thanks to the local yarn store I finally found the needles required & following a simple pattern from a mentor, ta dah:

i altered him a little from the pattern by making his wings & back black, which is more like a real penguin, right?

Having enjoyed the last riddle, here's another: What's the best way to carry water in a sieve? post your answer!