As has been the tradition virtually every year this past decade, we took part in not only the East Orange Library book sale (yeah, got some gems there), but also the Cherokee Nation of New Jersey's powwow. It was beautiful, as usual. The children were so excited, like they had never been before.
M. and B. had fun inside the teepees.
The traditional dancers were awsome,
and M. and B. even mustered up the nerve to join in the circle when the audience was invited. R. didn't, but was doin' his thing outside the circle though. (You betta work!)
We met a woman there who is a 19th century re-enactor (?), and had some of her wares displayed.
One of the cool things was that I recognized a few of the things from my great-grandmothers kitchen when I was growing up. Also, on another table she had a basket with actual cotton plants inside, and gave me a two or three- with some of the stems still attached. I can't wait to incorporate them into my upcoming history workshops! I don't believe most children understand what it was like for African-Americans to pick cotton before and after emencipation; I myself was an adult before I actually felt real cotton. I think this will help put somethings in better perspective.
Well, anyway that was Saturday, and we had a great time. Now for today...
It used to be that we went hiking on a regular, until I took an outside teaching job, started a new family business, got pregnant, etc., etc. Sooo, three years later, and I finally catch a scheduled guided hike that coincides with a day off, and my not being to tired to actually go. Well, of course we missed the guide -5 people trying to get out in an hour, & R. needing to stop for film was bound to not be on time- but we ventured out on our own anyway.
We hiked the Rahway Trail at South Mountain Reservation. I thought I remembered it being rough, and I was right. Well, most of it was alright, but there are definately challenges- especially if you have a baby on your back! In one area a big tree has fallen since we were last there, and we had to climb over it.
Besides all of that though, it was a beautiful day. The weather was wonderful, the sights were awsome, and I got to spend quality time with my babies. Isn't life grand?
Check out these sites for more info. on South Mountain Reservation:
South Mountain Conservancy- can get guided hike schedule & trail map here
Wikipedia
NYC parks info.
NYNJCT Botany
bike trails- helpful info. for hikers
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