Washing the Tractor

E came in very excited after lunch.  "Mom, G'pa said we can wash the tractor if it is all right with you.  Can we?"  How can one say no to that request?!  In my head I jumped to the number of tasks that I could do if everyone was busy 'washing' the tractor.  So, of course, I said, "Well, you still have a book report to do today and science.  So, if you wash the tractor, you have to do everything else later this afternoon."  And she was off like a shot…with some mumbled affirmative answer blown to the wind and slamming door.

So, after I had supper started, lunch dishes washed, laundry switched and bread started, I went out to see how the job was going.  I found three very happy, very busy, and very wet children with a dry G'pa  keeping an eye on the proceedings from a safe distance. After an hour + of entertainment, I told everyone it was time to come inside and have some 'rest time' and to finish school.  No one complained.  Everyone was all smiles and did exactly what was asked.  A wonderful activity for a wonderful day…and G'pa washed the rest of the tractor when all his helpers were inside.

It counts as vocational training, right?!  I love the flexibility of homeschooling and being able to enjoy beautiful fall days!!!