VBS

We attend a rather large church. So, VBS is a HUGE endeavor. It's such a blessing to be able to be a part of something with this magnitude. I should have looked at attendance totals when the staff newsletter came around each morning. But, here's some numbers to ponder. I worked in 5's class (those going in to Kindergarten). There were 14 in our class...and there were 2 kindergarten classes. I think I may remember a number like 131 for attendance one day in the pre-school (you can only attend VBS as a pre-schooler if your parent is working). I saw an attendance sheet for 1st thru 6th with a number like 742. So, basically...we're talking 900-1,000 kids (that doesn't include the teen helpers or adults). VBS is run like a small city. I totally applaud those who have been working very hard since April to pull this off.

I know the big kids have tons of fun...but being a staff kid has it's privileges too. They've done several crafts each day. Heard a Bible story each day. Miss Pockets (a high schooler with an apron that has a pockets all over the front...each pocket holds a piece of her story) talked to the kids about William Carey each day...the kids offering is going to India with some college students this summer. Their singing time was lead by puppets. Thursday was bounce house day. And today...WATER DAY. The kids came in their swim suits and during rec time, played in little pools, sprinklers, and slip-n-slides. Perfect for the 95 (feels like 101) weather today.
This year our theme was SONFORCE. My boys really liked the spy theme. (the program was great for girls too with stories of Mariam (Moses' sister) and Esther.) I'm counting on the excitement over space to continue long enough for me to cover this as an early unit in our school year. My kids don't want VBS to end, but I'm not sure I could continue at this pace for very long. I really didn't enjoy shoving breakfast down the kids to hurry them to the car...to be at church by 8am (it's a good thing we live less than a mile from church). This is just another confirmation that I've made the right choice for our family...homeschooling. I love spending time with the kids in the morning...and feeding them a good breakfast. I feel that we're rushed enough as adults...there's no reason for me to hurry them through their childhood.

I hope my thoughts are cohesive. I'm super tired from this week. But, this is such a 'good tired'. I love feeling like we've had fun as a family. Now as I sit here typing, listening to Disneyland fireworks...I'm ready to get back to my knitting. I've made lots of progress for this being such a busy week. I'll post updates soon. Good-night.