Austin Field Trip

The day finally arrived for the much anticipated field trip of Anthony's school career. At the beginning of the year we learned that in the Spring the fourth grade class would make a trip down to Austin to visit our capital in conjunction with their study of Texas History. From the beginning of the school till now Anthony has developed a love for Texas History and has soaked up every word from his teacher and from various books that he has read. He loves to talk about what he has learned and especially loves to learn more. So going to Austin was a special treat. Anthony was so excited about going on his field trip that he had no problems going to bed at 7:00 and waking up at 4:45. In fact he suggested it and set his own alarm clock. He was also excited to know that he Dad was going with him and that they would be able to do the activities together with no one else in their group. I don't think Daddy could eat breakfast fast enough for an excited ten year old boy; nor could the bus driver drive fast enough. Before the tour of the capital they toured the Bob Bullock Museum where they could learn through interaction exhibits more about Texas History. This was a self guided tour so the various groups split off on their own to explore and learn. After lunch they headed over to the Capital where they had a tour guide waiting for them. During the tour the tour guide would ask various questions and with every question Anthony's hand was the first to be raised with the desired answer. The tour guide picked up on real quick how sharp Anthony is and had to tell him that we need to let the other kids answer a few questions. However, if no one would answer the tour guide would ask Anthony if he knew the answer; which of course he did. Grant said it was neat to see his excitement for learning and for history. One of the parents commented to Grant that Anthony sure knows his Texas History which Grant replied that is what happens when you take your history book home over the Christmas break to read for leisure reading. After the tour of the Capital it was time to head home. Shortly outside of Austin they stopped for dinner before making the three hour trip home. They all left the school at 5:15 in the morning and returned home at 8:30 in the evening. Anthony had a full day with lots of learning, experiencing, and not to mention lots of walking. He had no problems going to bed that evening, in fact he asked for it.

I know he enjoyed himself immensely because the smile of his face said so. I am so glad that my children are able to experience such good learning opportunities.