St. Patrick's day

The kids and I enjoyed a short afternoon study of St. Patrick. I was relieved when my friend emailed me the website for a free download of a St. Patrick lap book project. (see sites below) I knew that I did not have time to make the lap book, but the information was very interesting to read to the boys. And my reserved library book did not come in until this afternoon!

We were very inspired by St. Patrick's missionary work in Ireland. He was actually kidnapped from Great Britian at the age or 16 and forced into slavery in Ireland. After 6 years he escaped, felt called to study religion for 12 years in France, and went back to Ireland as a missionary. He "planted" over 200 churches and schools in Ireland! Ireland went from being a pagan island, to a Christian society. Irish life was forever changed by God's work through this man. What an encouragement!

Not only did we learn many interesting facts about St. Patrick, but I shared with the boys pictures of my own trip to Ireland. Fifteen years ago, I was in Ireland on St. Patrick's day to dance in the St. Patrick's Day parade in Dublin with my high school dance team. I actually took some really great pictures of Irish houses, castles and pubs that the boys enjoyed.

Just for fun, we made green slushies, a rainbow craft, and found Ireland on the globe. All in all, our celebration came together nicely, being both fun and educational.

Inspiring web sites:

~http://www.currclick.com/product_info.php?products_id=1055&SRC=greeting&affiliate_id=12147&it=1

~http://belladia.typepad.com/crafty_crow/