It’s funny how 60F in October feels so much colder than 40F in April! We enjoyed a fairly warm and wind-free September, but today definitely felt like Fall: crisp air, many colorful leaves on the ground, no yellow jackets (too cold). It was nice to see new faces and reconnect with old friends. Once again, we had a strong Magic the Gathering contingent, a group of kids enjoying the beach, another at the playground, and several groups of parents chatting and drinking tea. It was especially nice how comfortable many children felt moving between different areas. In a time when many neighborhood sidewalks are empty, Houghton’s Pond has become our own neighborhood, that exists on Friday afternoons, where our children can safely run and play, with a great degree of autonomy.

Homeschoolers are very independent people, with diverse schedules that often leave little free time. Families who attend come from as near as Milton and Quincy and as far as Arlington and Bridgewater. I am grateful to everyone who comes for making an effort to be there; for prioritizing free play outdoors, and making it possible for our children to feel like Houghton’s Pond is their domain.

I will see you all next week, rain or shine!