I often say that I write this blog as a love letter to our boys. I also keep a little journal in my purse to write down all the funny things they say (when I can remember to get it out or find a pen that actually works in the bottom of my purse). And, I write them letters on their birthdays. I know, I am sentimental.
I am blessed to have married a man of integrity. He is a wonderful dad and is diligent in helping to provide a wonderful, Godly foundation for the buckaroos that is full of fun and adventure. From a zipline in our front yard, Bible studies in his lap on Sundays, building a cabin on our land as their physical inheritance, a work ethic beyond compare, and so much more. He overcame a troubled childhood to become an extraordinary man. I think part of the reason for that is because he had a grandfather (his grandparents were the stabilizing force in his life) that taught him how to be a real man. His Mamaw and Papaw gave him the foundation that we are striving to pass on to the Buckaroos – love, compassion, dedication, the power of creativity and lessons that can only come from example. Big Buckaroo is a hero in our book.
As we began our homeschool year, I thought we should introduce the boys to other real life heroes. So, the boys and I will research and write about those brave souls who strive for something greater. Stories that are not lectures, but show that if they work hard, are determined, not afraid of failure, the impossible becomes possible. And, it is not about being famous, thank goodness because I think we are lacking in real heroes that are “famous” these days.
I will share a brief description here on The Park Wife of who we are studying.
We begin with:
Neil Armstong, Test Pilot, Astronaut, Space Traveler.
Photo courtesy of NASA
It was not just the one small step that made him great, it was the thousands before that.
He started working at age 10, cutting grass at a cemetery so he could save enough to buy a model airplane. At fourteen, he WORKED three jobs to pay for flying lessons. At sixteen, while his buddies were learning to drive cars, he EARNED his pilot’s license. At thirty, he FEARLESSLY tested 200 different aircraft. At thirty-nine, he floated down the ladder, his voice calm, unhurried in his movements. He took a small step and began walking on the moon.
“I think we’re going to the moon because it’s in the nature of the human being to face challenges. It’s by the nature of his deep inner soul… we’re required to do these things just as salmon swim upstream.“ Neil Armstrong
Thank you Neil Armstrong for a real-life adventure story that inspires us to reach for boundaries far beyond what is known. We honor your example of service, accomplishment, and modesty. I pray the Buckaroos will work hard to make their dreams come true, be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly serve a cause greater than themselves. Just as you did.
Oh, we have been Lost in Space before. Check it out.
The Park Wife
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Just checking out to see if you have the Love Story Linked… can’t wait to read it!
I love this. It reminds me that I need to revisit and think about the heroes in my life and perhaps even blog about them. Thanks for a lovely post!
I love this! And, I am incredibly sentimental too. I love the idea of keeping a little journal in my purse to write down the adorable/silly/funny things my boys say. I always try to remember them and then forget to write them anywhere. I’m going to start that one right away! And, I love the idea of studying real heroes…so awesome! Thank you for sharing wtih all of us