- Get link
- Other Apps
Departing from Fort Worth, our journey took us to the picturesque Hill Country of Texas. Anticipation filled us as we prepared to reunite with friends who had traded Joshua Tree, CA for Fredericksburg, TX. Eager to immerse ourselves in the town's rich blend of German heritage, live music, art, and strong sense of community, we eagerly awaited the adventure ahead. As one friend aptly described it, Fredericksburg is a city that "unapologetically serves God." If this resonates with you, join me as I delve into our firsthand experiences and insider tips from a local.
Because Fredericksburg is a destination spot in the Hill Country of Texas, RV sites in this area are a bit our of our budget, but thankfully our friends let us stay on their property. Maneuvering our fifth wheel onto their property was quite an adventure, but Scott did it! I often marvel at his abilities. Our friends’ live on such a special property, featuring an old German home that adds to its charm.
Tip: If you need to find an RV spot in this area I suggest looking on ALL STAYS.
Hike Enchanted Rock, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Tip: Make reservations in advance
Walk Historic Main Street where you will find restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic buildings.
* We don't drink, but if you do this area is known for their wineries.
One of the homeschooling methods I adore is the Charlotte Mason approach. My kids truly embraced the use of living books, nature study, and the emphasis on character development. Charlotte Mason advocated treating children with respect and fostering their curiosity through what she termed "living education."
When my friend mentioned a Charlotte Mason school in her town, I couldn't resist visiting. It was a delightful discovery—from the serene classrooms to the garden and even the chickens. My daughter remarked that if she ever attended a brick and mortar school, it would have to be just like that.
For those intrigued by homeschooling the Charlotte Mason way or wishing to incorporate her principles into family life, here are some suggestions:
1. Embrace Living Books: Opt for quality literature that ignites passion and engagement. Some Examples include: "The Story of the World," "The Magic School Bus," "The Secret Garden," "Anne Frank," and "Pilgrim's Progress."
2. Nature Study: Encourage exploration and connection with the natural world. Spend time outdoors observing, sketching, and journaling about plants and animals.
3. Short, Focused Lessons: Keep lessons brief yet impactful, dedicating 15-20 minutes to each subject throughout the day.
4. Narration: Replace worksheets with narration exercises, where children retell what they've learned in their own words.
5. Character Development: Prioritize kindness, responsibility, and attentiveness, focusing on one habit at a time.
6. Art and Music Appreciation: Introduce children to great works of art and classical music, fostering discussions about emotions and aesthetics.
In essence, the Charlotte Mason approach nurtures the holistic development of children through meaningful experiences and rich literature. It's a wonderful model to incorporate into any household, whether homeschooling or not.
Recourses:
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in the Hill Country and recommend anyone who is visiting Texas to check it out.
Isn't it amazing how God brings the right people into our lives just when we need them most? Though we only met our Joshua Tree friends a few months before they moved, they left a lasting impact. Their creativity and unique outlook on life challenged me to see things differently. They showed me that life doesn't have to follow a conventional path of 9-5 jobs, homeownership, and retirement. Their fearlessness and authenticity inspired us to embrace our own lifestyle. I love my friend’s vulnerability and authenticity allowing instant connection in our lives where we have faced similar trials. Isn’t that just like God?
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.
Where we stayed
Because Fredericksburg is a destination spot in the Hill Country of Texas, RV sites in this area are a bit our of our budget, but thankfully our friends let us stay on their property. Maneuvering our fifth wheel onto their property was quite an adventure, but Scott did it! I often marvel at his abilities. Our friends’ live on such a special property, featuring an old German home that adds to its charm.
Tip: If you need to find an RV spot in this area I suggest looking on ALL STAYS.
What to do
Hike Enchanted Rock, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Tip: Make reservations in advance
Walk Historic Main Street where you will find restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic buildings.
Take a short Hike up to the Cross at Cross Mountain Park. Our friends were part of our homeschool hiking squad back in Joshua Tree, so it was fun to be able to do a hike with them.
Suggestions from a Local
- Pacific War Museum and Japanese Garden
- Pioneer Museum
- Marktplatz Farmers Market ( Dancehall Nights and outdoor skating rink around Christmas)
- Pedernales Falls State Park- has a swimming hole and camping!
- Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park- has it all ( including an RV park)
- Don't miss the Gillespie County Fair if visiting in the fall!
Food Scene
- Coffee Shops: RockHaus Coffee and Sunday Supply
- 50's Style Ice cream and food- Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery and Deli
- Italian: Pasta Bella
- Pizza: West End Pizza
- German Food- Friedhelm's Bavarian Inn
* We don't drink, but if you do this area is known for their wineries.
Homeschool- Charlotte Mason
One of the homeschooling methods I adore is the Charlotte Mason approach. My kids truly embraced the use of living books, nature study, and the emphasis on character development. Charlotte Mason advocated treating children with respect and fostering their curiosity through what she termed "living education."
When my friend mentioned a Charlotte Mason school in her town, I couldn't resist visiting. It was a delightful discovery—from the serene classrooms to the garden and even the chickens. My daughter remarked that if she ever attended a brick and mortar school, it would have to be just like that.
For those intrigued by homeschooling the Charlotte Mason way or wishing to incorporate her principles into family life, here are some suggestions:
1. Embrace Living Books: Opt for quality literature that ignites passion and engagement. Some Examples include: "The Story of the World," "The Magic School Bus," "The Secret Garden," "Anne Frank," and "Pilgrim's Progress."
2. Nature Study: Encourage exploration and connection with the natural world. Spend time outdoors observing, sketching, and journaling about plants and animals.
3. Short, Focused Lessons: Keep lessons brief yet impactful, dedicating 15-20 minutes to each subject throughout the day.
4. Narration: Replace worksheets with narration exercises, where children retell what they've learned in their own words.
5. Character Development: Prioritize kindness, responsibility, and attentiveness, focusing on one habit at a time.
6. Art and Music Appreciation: Introduce children to great works of art and classical music, fostering discussions about emotions and aesthetics.
In essence, the Charlotte Mason approach nurtures the holistic development of children through meaningful experiences and rich literature. It's a wonderful model to incorporate into any household, whether homeschooling or not.
Recourses:
- To find brick and mortar schools- https://amblesideschools.org/
- Free online curriculum and resources- https://www.amblesideonline.org/index
- Paid curriculum- https://www.alveary.org
- Podcasts- ADE- A Delectable Education and Charolette Mason Poetry
Overall Experience
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in the Hill Country and recommend anyone who is visiting Texas to check it out.
Isn't it amazing how God brings the right people into our lives just when we need them most? Though we only met our Joshua Tree friends a few months before they moved, they left a lasting impact. Their creativity and unique outlook on life challenged me to see things differently. They showed me that life doesn't have to follow a conventional path of 9-5 jobs, homeownership, and retirement. Their fearlessness and authenticity inspired us to embrace our own lifestyle. I love my friend’s vulnerability and authenticity allowing instant connection in our lives where we have faced similar trials. Isn’t that just like God?
Bible Verse
1 Peter 1:3 (MSG)
What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now!
Reflection
- Jesus conquered death by suffering for our sins, being buried, and rising on the third day. This truth is corroborated by historical evidence, eyewitness accounts (including over 500 individuals), the transformation of fearful disciples into bold witnesses- who were all the sudden willing to face persecution, the undeniable reality of the empty tomb, and the fulfillment of prophecies.
- How does Jesus' victory over death affect how you see the challenges and difficulties you encounter in your life?
- In embracing this reality, we receive a new life abundant with purpose and promise. While worldly pursuits like work, possessions, and status are temporary, we can invest in eternal treasures by living each day with unwavering confidence in Christ, both in our present and future.
- How does embracing the promise of a new life in Christ change your perspective on the pursuit of worldly achievements and possessions?
- Identifying those who have a deep, meaningful relationship with God can be discerned by observing their fruits—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
- Do you believe those closest to you would recognize the fruits of the Spirit in your life? How about strangers or acquaintances?
- If you are anything like me it's an ongoing journey, guided by the Holy Spirit. My desire is for others to see these fruits in our lives and be drawn closer to Jesus through our example.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I praise you for the resurrection and the new life granted to me through Jesus. You have triumphed over death, and your desire is for me to share in eternal life with you. I ask for your guidance in maintaining a heavenly perspective amidst the distractions of this fleeting world. May I walk in the footsteps of Jesus by extending grace to all, embracing the marginalized, and bearing the fruits of your Spirit.
Thank you for desiring a personal relationship with me, for hearing my prayers, and for caring about even the smallest concerns in my heart.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.
Enjoyed this post? Subscribe now for more insightful content.
Comments
Post a Comment
I would love to here from you!