19th Century....That's How We Roll

4th grade has offered many challenges for both Dominick and myself.  Whether we are struggling through math homework, labeling folders and dividers or buying endless amounts of school supplies, we are definitely kept busy.  A couple months in to the school year the teacher informed parents and students that we would be able to experience life as early California settlers, and what better way to do this than an overnight trip to Sutter's Fort!  The lead up to the actual field trip was long, involved and educational.  As a volunteer, I was obligated to attend various meetings including a several hour long training day at Sutter's Fort in the beginning of January. Dominick had to complete an era appropriate journal detailing the life and times of John Sutter, since Dominick volunteered to play the part of the famous Captain.  When the day of our trip arrived we showed up early at school in our pioneer woman (me) and military (Dom) garb. Parents loaded up all the supplies needed for the all day and overnight trip while the students stayed behind and listened to all the rules just one more time.  The class finally arrived at Sutter's Fort via horse and wagon, it was a great sight.

Once everything and everyone was unloaded the students began their station rotations. Each parent manned a station, mine was the wagon station, I know it sounds super exciting.

As the day progressed I addressed eight different groups of kids and told them all the wonderful and fascinating facts about the covered wagon.  It was an awesome experience.  I loved watching my son from afar as he interacted with other kids, participated in activities from 150 years ago and expanded his knowledge of the California Gold Rush.  As John Sutter, Dominick had the task of giving a speech in front of the whole group. For any other kid this may have seemed a little intimidating, not for Dominick!

The day was a success. I could not bring myself to endure the early February chill and stay the night but Dominick was more than happy to.  So I left him around 5:00 with sleeping bag in hand and wished him the best.  The morning report was a good one.  Despite little sleep, a bout of vomiting and smelling real bad, I think he had a great time.  I doubt that I would have fared so well.