Our grade 3 students at Outdoor School report that they are having a great time. I went up to Paradise Valley yesterday after school to teach their evening session. The drive up was very nice, and it turned into convertible weather just north of Lions Bay.

The students were all starting to line up to go into the dining hall when I pulled into the parking lot. Their counsellors were playing games with them, as they waited for other cabin groups to come to dinner. Some spotted me early, and turned to wave, and I went to say hello.

“Come join us for dinner Mr. Beveridge,” said one student. “You can sit at the teachers’ table.”

“Thanks,” I answered, “I think I will.”

Dinner was a louder affair than I am used to. There were approximately 120 children at 15 tables, and they did not seem as tired as I might expect after two days at Outdoor School. They sang Johnny Appleseed, and then got down to dinner (chicken and rice).

After dinner, the grade 3’s joined me for their 30 minute class time. We went for a walk along the river, with frequent stops for sharing what they have learned. They shared about birds, farm animals, rivers, ponds, cabins, counsellors, chores, and many other topics. The walk went quite well, but I must admit at times it was like herding kittens. They were very active when we walked along the dike.

We returned and they reunited with their cabin counsellors, and then went off to the campfire. That’s where I left them, singing “Wild Thing” in their best voices, and having a good time.

We shall see them again this afternoon, and they will have many stories to share.

Take care.