Cliff's Amusement Park~Homeschool Band

On Friday, we joined the kids and adults of our Homeschool Band group at Cliff's Amusement Park in Albuquerque, for a fun- filled, exciting day.
One of the best things about the day was that John was able to join us, too. It's so wonderful when our entire family can do special things together.

Daddy & Daughter: Beautiful! I took this photo after we all rode the Galaxi Roller Coaster. It was a pretty tame coaster as coasters go, except that it spun in corkscrews for a long time, which makes me a little ill. Jenna didn't like it at all. She didn't like the end part of the log flume either. Of course, she rode in the very front with a first-hand view of that steep drop, so I don't blame her at all.
Jackson & Jeremiah getting ready to take-off on the Galaxi coaster.
Up they go!
And around and around they go! They both rode this coaster 4 times!
The Carousel was more Jenna's pace. And John's too, ever since he got the shunt placed in his head several years ago. John and Jenna spent alot of time in Kiddie Land while I rode the faster rides with our boys.
But we all rode the carousel. Of course, the boys had to try out some stunts to make it a little more exciting. The ride for me is very relaxing and nostaligic, but mostly I just like riding any horses I can.
Then there was a go round on the jeep ride. But later, Daddy and Jenna rode it a few times again. There were no lines at all on Friday, so we basically just walked on all the rides or just stayed on to ride again.
Just clownin' around.
Jenna absolutely loved this puppy ride! And she always chose to ride in the black and white puppy. Of course, she is the 'founder' of Laughing Orca Ranch, and would probably choose to have all of our critters be black and white! hehe
Jenna rode this so many times we all lost count.
Jenna liked this balloon ride, too. I rode it once with her...it is very very very very sloooow. Did I mention how slow it is? John took Jenna on this ride several more times. I don't know how he managed to stay awake during the ride.....
This is probably the last year that the boys will be able to ride any of the Kiddie Land rides, unless they ride with their sister. They seemed to know this and tried to ride every ride in Kiddie Land, just because they still could.
They also tried to act cool while riding these silly rides. But anyone could tell they were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Both of them were making everyone laugh with their silliness.
These two sons of mine are the ultimate clowns! They are always doing silly things and making everyone laugh.
Jeremiah had an awesome time on the bumper cars. He and his brother rode these at least 5 times. Thankfully there were no lines to wait in.
Jackson was in his element cruising around. Ironically he didn't like bumping or getting bumped. He just want to drive fast!
And just to let their sister know he loved her, Jackson took Jenna on the carousel ride so they could ride together.
The New Mexico Rattler Coaster is a screamer! During the entire ride there are no breaks to catch your breath. You just keep whipping around and up and down and under and over, all around the entire park! It's a blast! My boys and I rode this coaster twice and probably would have rode a few more times, if it hadn't been getting late. We wanted to ride the Big Flush (basically a rubber raft ride through two pipes that twist around, one pitch black and one green) before we left. Both were very fun!
All 3 of our kids wanted to squeeze in one more Kiddie Land ride on the bumpy ATV's. Jenna hated it and wanted off right away. Jackson thought it was great.
The ride attendant had to turn off the ride for Jenna. Jeremiah was sort of bummed, but at least my kids were the only other ones on this ride.

We rode a few other rides and ate corn dogs and drank slush puppies. And then we drove back to the mountains to watch Jax and Jem play a 3 1/2 hour baseball game.
When we finally got home, it was dark and we were exhausted!
But the horse, goats, sheep, llamas, chickens, chicks, dog, cats, fish and guinea pigs still needed to be fed and tucked in for the night.
Such is the life on Laughing Orca Ranch!

Homeschool Band Spring Concert

I'm still catching up with photos, videos and end of the year homeschooling activities.
So here are a few videos taken during Jackson's Homeschool Band's Spring Concert performances.

Jackson is in the beginner band group and plays trombone. He's pretty good, too.
This video is a good representation of how well these kids have progressed from not knowing anything about reading or playing music just 9 months ago.

The ending of this video is also a little funny because you can hear my 5 yr old daughter proclaming that someone spit on her. Lovely.



And this is another video of the beginner band group, but with a 'guest musician'....ME! hehe
Yep, that's me playing the maracas. And I even get to bow at the end! hehehe


This is a window to the future for Jackson (and us, his parents). It's just one song played excellently by the advanced band group. The advanced band played several songs and just impressed everyone with their skills and talent. Wow!

You'll also notice how large the group is. Students are permitted to remain in advanced band until they are 18 yrs old, once they pass their audition. Some students do just that, while some choose to start over again in beginner band with a different instrument and work their way back into advanced band. While a few students decide to keep their spot in advanced band playing one instrument, and also playing another instrument in beginner or intermediate band.

So check out the video. I bet you'll be blown away!


For more on our homeschool activities, you can click on the link in the "Postings Catalogue' in the left side column called "Why We Homeschool". Or for more info and pictures of the homeschool band activities, just look in the same 'catalogue' in the left-side column and click on "Homeschool Band".

Homeschool Band Picnic

I'm a little late in posting these pictures from our end-of-year Mid-Rio Grande Homeschool Band picnic. Someone recently asked about the band and reminded me of these photos that have been sitting forgotten in my computer.

So here they are:

Our homeschool band got together one afternoon about 2 weeks ago for a picnic. The kids had a terrific time socializing, catching-up, playing and visiting.

There was frisbee.
There was football and baseball, all coordinated by the kids.
There was soccer. (Little Jenna even got invited to play, too)
There were singing 'hand-games'.
I'm always impressed with how most homeschoolers don't discriminate based on age. They also seem to realize how to treat the youngers kids and are always fair and gentle.
Jackson and a friend. Isn't that cute?
There weres light saber duels. (Jackson & Jeremiah both, playing with friends)
Everyone ganged-up on band instructor, Mr B., who was happily playing frisbee with the kids.
And there were water-games (as you can tell from Jackson's wet clothes!) We are all so happy to be involved in the Mid Rio Grande Homeschool Band. Mr. B. gives off such positive energy, is kind, fair and loads of fun. He's a child-at-heart who is in complete support of homeschooling. Can't beat that! hehe

Letterboxing, Fire and Driving Home

After leaving the Homeschool Band Camp, we stopped by the Smokey Bear Historical Park, in Capitan, NM, which just so happened to be celebrating 'Smokey Bear Days'
.
But we were there to search for the Smokey Bear Letterbox. We almost gave up due to the fact that the area where the micro-box was hidden had been tidied up, with the rocks mentioned, removed, and the area planted over with wildflowers and other plants.

But with some 'scuffling' through the pine needles and some close-up sleuthing by Jackson we finally found the letterbox, but then we weren't able to re-hide it because one of the park staff came out and asked us to stay out of the area so the flowers and plants wouldn't be damaged. And the inside of the box was soaked due to the sprinklers.
We made a joint decision, based on the much used and exposed original hiding place and direct view towards the park museum doors, to re-hide the box just a little bit southeast of that location, in a less busy location. So, after re-hiding, we headed back on the road towards home. But it was nice to pay our respects to that historic, cute little bear cub on such a special day.

I've wanted to visit the Gran Quivira Ruins for years now and was hoping that we'd make it to the location, just south of Mountainair, by the time they closed at 5pm. But once again, we didn't make it in time and pulled up 3 minutes after 5pm. Darn. We did see the ruins peeking through the trees, which made me yearn to visit even more, but we had to settle for some placard pictures instead.
And with my camera's zoom, I could just make out the ruins up on this ridge, from the road below. One day I will return and finally experience beautiful Gran Quivira.
Just above the town of Mountainair, we could see that the Trigo fires were still burning, but at least, under control now.
A crazy little shop on the outskirts of Mountainair.
Just after we passed Estancia, NM and headed west, we could see the Trigo fires a little more clearer. I was worried that our route home, north on 55 would be closed due to the fire.
And right there at our turn off was the road closed signs along with police cars, fire vehicles, and news crews.
But, thankfully, we were able to head north to our home. Home is such a wonderful word.

Lone Tree Homeschool Band Camp

Whoooeee! We've had a crazy busy last few days! First there were the fires (which are still burning, but under control, and no threat to us, at this point....thank you to everyone who were so concerned about our safety).

One of my twin sons', Jackson, had his Mid Rio Grande Homeschool Band Camp to attend down in beautiful Capitan, NM, at the Lone Tree Ranch.

We left home on Thursday afternoon, drove east to Moriarty, then south to Estancia.
Once we got south of Estancia, things got a little bit tricky. The air was thick with the smoke from the Trigo fire, just 25 miles east in the Manzano Mountains. So thick that the air was yellow and brown and we had difficulty breathing, even with closed windows. Our throats felt raw and I felt bad for those who lived in the path of the smoke 24/7.

Then when we got to Willard, our first choice to reach Capitan, because of it's more direct route, we ran into a road block, which was due to another fire, though unrelated to the Trigo fire.

It had burned out-of-control and jumped the road.(click photo for larger view)
The Willard Fire Department showed up to make sure the fire was extinguished.....Willard might have a population of 200...maybe 300.

So we were told to divert to Mountainaire, NM and then drive south to our destination. This route added an additional 20 miles and 45 minutes to our route because of the zig-zag road we had to travel on.

But Mountainair was an interesting town with some unique artwork and a fun western feel.

We finally got through Carizozo, NM and then drove east to Capitan, reaching our destination about 6:30pm. About a 3 1/2 hour drive.

As soon as we parked, Jackson spied the cool x-large Chess Set. And of course we had to play a game together while waiting for some of the other band families to show up. And of course, I lost.....I seem to always forget to pay attention to my opponent's possible next move. sigh.
Then more games were played as more players showed up, dividing into teams.

That evening there was time for a few games of dodge ball, basketball and a few bucks on the mechanical bull, too (photos forthcoming)
The next morning, after an uncomfie night on thin mattresses over plywood bunk bed boards, we enjoyed a yummy breakfast of french toast and sausage. Then I mosied over to the corrals to commune with the horses with my hot tea. The horses were enjoying some morning naps.
It was such a peaceful way to start the day.
This poor old horse, over 26 years old, found a way to relax with his stiff muscles.
After free time, Jackson gathered up his Trombone for some practice time, while Advanced and Intermediate Bands had their time slots with Mr. B's practice in the Worship Center.
Then it was time for Beginner Band's practice.Such a gorgeous place to practice, with mountain and valley views, and hawks and eagles soaring just beyond the picture windows.
This was my room, shared with 3 (female)roommates, a Mom and her 13 yr old daughter, in Intermediate band, and a 10 yr old girl, Jackson's friend, Fawn, in Beginner Band with Jackson. That's my bed on the bottom left side. Jackson slept in the Boy's dorm of the Bunk House.
A shot of the bathroom and shower in our room. All of us ended up sneaking out during the second night, into a living room area near our bedroom, and we all slept well on the comfie sofas.
For lunch, we ate delicious mini-pizzas, and stacked up a plate with healthy salads from the salad bar. All meals were served Family Style. Meals were lots of fun!
After lunch, the kids and adults got to choose 4 adventure activities to participate in. While waiting to start, a bunch of kids and adults jumped onto a sort of 'teeter-totter' and through teamwork.....
....finally got it balanced. Notice, Mr. B, the Band Instructor in the dark shirt and baseball cap. It never failed to impress me, how, for the entire weekend, Mr. B was fully participating. He did just about every activity with the kids, from the Screamer, to the teeter-totter, to riding the mechanical bull. The kids just loved it!
Then it was time for the Alpine Tower and Scream Orientation. Have I mentioned before just how AWESOME the staff are at Lone Tree Ranch? Well, they are. They were fun, patient, silly, caring, helpful, supportive, laid back, and just plain wonderful to everyone. Beautiful Christian people, there to make sure each person's experience was a God-filled, happy, safe, and fun experience.
Jackson & his buddy, Fawn on the Teeter-Totter thing.
Then Jackson got harnessed to climb the Alpine Tower.
He was very nervous and unsure.
He started up.
But got stuck at this spot and decided to turn back. He was disappointed and I was sad for him.
But it time to shoot rifles. Jackson was very excited. (The gal behind him is one of my roommates, the 13 yr old girl, daughter of my buddy, Denise)
I signed up to shoot, too. What a blast! (literally! hehe)
My pal, Denise, and I laughed like hyennas. We weren't very good at shooting, but did get very close to hitting a few targets. We had a great time, though. And our instructor seemed to enjoy our silliness, too, and gave us a few extra rounds and offered a some aiming tips.
Jackson taking aim.
He was pretty good and hit a couple targets, too.
One of the signs along the trail leading to the activities.
We passed by the Rock/Rapelling wall on our way to the corrals.
First there was a simple orientation for the horse-riding. A few kids had never been on a horse before. The horse-riding activity was the most popular one, so none of the adults had the opportunity to ride, instead giving all the spots to the kids. They all seemed to have a terrific time.
Funny story about the horse given to Jackson. The kids were asked who was the most aggressive, and he, thinking he'd end up with a spirited horse that needed control, raised his hand.
Instead he was given the fattest, laziest horse at the ranch. Wanna know what the horse's name was? Wolf......because he 'wolfs' down his food! hehe
Most of the time Wolf preferred to just stand around. But Jackson thought that was boring. Shane, the riding ranch-hand encouraged Jackson to keep asking Wolf to move by kicking him in the sides. It worked a few times, but only got Wolf taking a step or two.
So, I suggested that Jackson try smacking Wolf on the butt to get him to move. It worked! Of course, Wolf didn't move very fast.....just a slow, plodding walk, but at least he moved! hehe
Lone Tree had recently got in couple of llamas, too. They were hoping to train them to pack. These llamas weren't able to get close to any visitors, but were very curious and seemed to want to either say Hi to all the people, or maybe spit at them! hehe I was told by Shane that they spit at the horses on a regular basis. Because of my infatuation with llamas, I still wanted to get up close and personal with these llamas. Probably a good idea I couldn't, though. I've been spit on once by one of my own llamas...and it was very unpleasant. Very unpleasant.
This is one crazy-looking llama!
Notice the black llama's side in the photo. See the long scar on it's flank? It was attacked by a bear a couple years ago. Llamas are tough cookies!
After the horse-ride, Jackson, helped out with the rope-pulling for the Screamer Activity. Notice he's wearing a harness for his turn on the Screamer. Also notice Mr. B. on the rope-pulling team.

Then it was time to ride the Screamer!!! Ryan was an awesome staff member and was totally upbeat, funny and encouraging to all the kids. Here he was talking to Jackson as he got Jax's harness hooked up to the ropes. The other two men below the ladder are some of the Dads assisting the staff. Everyone pitched in and helped and supported one another.
The rope-pull team hoisted Jackson up high.
And higher....
Until it was time for Jackson to release the rope and go flying! And screaming!! Wheeeeee!
Jackson was loving it!
He decided to do is own happy dance called "the chicken" bawk, bawk! Everyone was laughing at my silly son! hehe
Then it was time to remove the ropes. Ryan has a great demeanor and laid back way with kids. Have I mentioned before that the staff at Lone Tree Ranch are AWESOME?!
Since Jackson's friend, Fawn's parents weren't able to be at band camp, we hung out and took pictures of her on the Screamer.
Jackson and the pull-team hoisted her up. And she flew like a bird...whooping with joy!
Afterwards, Fawn was able to have a turn on the Alpine Tower, because someone else had backed out after signing up. She was thrilled! See her there climbing the pole?
Fawn's determination and joy encouraged Jackson to try again on the Alpine Tower. They were going to close down the tower after Fawn, but the staff knew that Jackson badly wanted that chance to conquer his fears. So, up he went!! And he got past that place that had stumped him the first time!!
He climbed higher and higher....
And higher and higher. Notice that his pal, Fawn is up there with him and they are both encouraging each other to get to the top.
Jackson went still higher.
And onto the twisty, wind-blown cotton rope.
Almost there!!
Yay!!!
That's one proud, happy boy! (Jackson's band buddy, Ryan is just getting to the top with him, too.)
Preparing to rapell to the bottom, after enjoying the breathtaking view.
Jackson (on the left) and Ryan rapelling down.
Whoohoo!! He made it!!! Way to go, Jackson! I was so so proud of him!!

Afterwards, we decided to take a hike around the Lone Tree Ranch to explore the place, while Jackson's legs stopped wobbling and his adrenaline had a change to dissipate. He was so pumped with excitment from his accomplishment on the Alpine Tower!
Here's one of the bunk dorms in an old caboose.
Hooray! Lone Tree Ranch!!
Before dinner, Shane, drove out the tractor and wagon for hay rides.
But first there was time for a game of ping pong.
While some other kids played piano.
And Jackson and other kids cheered on Mr. B playing table soccer.
And some other kids played a game of pool.
All of our band kids and families enjoyed a delicious meal of country fried chicken, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, rolls, and salad. I'm sure everyone ate like tigers after such an active, fun filled day! I know I did! hehe
Then it was time for hayrides!
Jackson had a blast riding in the back.
After the hayrides, everyone gathered in the gym for a few games of dodge ball.
Because of the fire danger and the National Forest, surrounding the ranch, not allowing campfires and closing the forest, the ranch decided it shouldn't ruin our S'Mores plans and we lined up to make 'cold' S'Mores. They were still yummy!
Meanwhile the staff set up the mechanical bull, and Jackson took a turn.
He did really well and didn't even fall off, like he had the night before.
Yeehaw!!

The next day, was filled with band practice and a band student performance concert, with solos, duets, and groups doing musical performances. They were all so GOOD!

Then, it was time for lunch...delicious ham and croissant sandwiches and salads.

And next it was time to pack up and sadly say good bye to our friends, old and new.
My roommates and new friends.
Jackson's pal (and my roommate), Fawn.
My 'old', dear friend, Nancy, who I've known since we first met as Docents working for the Rio Grande Zoo, before we even had children yet. Now here we are, not just homeschooling our kids, but involved in the same band group, too. Funny how life comes around full circle sometimes.
Ok, so now I understand why Danni over at Critter Farm's Donkey Rescue is so enamored with donkeys. I fell head-over-heels with this loveable guy during our stay an wanted to figure out a way to pack him up and fit him into my van. You better believe.....I would have, too!Isn't he ADORABLE?????

Just before everyone packed up and headed out, we gathered up the kids for a group shot. Our entire Mid-Rio Grande Homeschool Band!! (Jackson is above and to the left of Mr. B)