Seasonal observations, nature notes, and homeschool reflections from the week outdoors.
Noticing the Week · Summer Solstice
We closed out spring with a hike on the neighborhood trails, noticing new growth, blooming flowers, and cherries ripening on trees. Warm weather stayed with us all week as we approached the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.
What We Noticed
- Found a bumblebee in the driveway
- Seeds sprouted: broccoli, peas, corn, and radish
- A robin eating ripe cherries
- Hydrangea bushes starting to bloom
Weather Conditions
Steady temperatures in the mid-80’s all week, with no rain.
Summer Solstice = Longest Day
Sunrise 5:14 am
Sunset 9:09 pm
Almost 16 hours of daylight!
Field Notes
On our hike we saw:
- High cirrocumulus clouds
- Trees fully leafed out
- Lily pads and algae in a pond
- Wildflowers blooming
- Tree tunnel covered in leaf litter
Wondering About
Why are foxgloves called that?
How do tiny slivers of bark get in skin?
Reading Together
- Dandylion Summer – Frann Preston-Gannon
- The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read – Curtis Manley
Find our related seasonal book lists and story reflections at our blog: parMINDary.com
