Seasonal observations, nature notes, and homeschool reflections from the week outdoors.

Noticing the Week Autumn Equinox Featured Image

Nature Notes ยท End of Summer

Autumn arrived with a beautiful Harvest Moon and a blast of strong wind. We noticed more seeds ready in our yard and looked for changes along our local trails. Collecting samples of the many leaves we found and observing the moon were the highlights of our week as we welcomed fall.


What We Noticed

In our backyard:

  • More leaves on the ground now
  • Aster and lettuce seed puffs
  • Dark clouds and strong wind
  • I saw the full Harvest moon rising at bedtime in the eastern sky, and again in the morning to the west
Full Harvest Moon on a September Morning

Weather Conditions

We had sunny days, followed by a BIG wind storm. After the storm it was sunny again.

We had just over 12 hours of daylight on the autumn equinox.

Child Holding Fallen Pine Branch in Autumn

Field Notes

I went on two hikes this week: the last hike of summer and the first hike of fall.

I collected 12 types of leaves, also pine branches, lichen, and seeds. I saw fruit, berries, moss, and mushrooms. There were cute little brown squirrels and birds singing their songs along the trails too.

Red Squirrel with Pinecone in Washington State

Wondering About

Were the animals busy all night during the full moon?

Reading Together

  • Pondering โ€“ Paul Paolilli
  • Bothered by Bugs โ€“ Emily Gravett
September Homeschool Field Journal Notes with Bug Book

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