Sticks, mud, gardens, hens, horses and butterflies! At the heart of the Stable Days programming is the philosophy that we all, children and childlike, flourish when given the time and space to play in the God-designed, sensory-rich, experiential-learning, nature-based environment that is found on the other side of inside.
Outside, in the winter, holding witness to the rising of the sun, while dawn becomes day; a new story unfolds. The crisp air, a most perfect refreshment as we listen to the hens cackle their greetings telling us that morning has begun. Each sunrise of winter, with the wind at our back, we seek new mercies and the promise of snow filled playfulness. We can find drive for our novel mind and peace for our soul.
Outside in the spring, as the earth seems to come to life again, buds bloom with the hope of longer days. The dawn chorus has ended, and mid-morning has begun. The new greens brighten the fresh fields as the grandness of nature cannot be ignored. Each morning of spring with our face tipped to the sun, we can find respite for our overactive mind and refreshment for our soul.
Outside in the summer, damp from the sweat of the day we pause for a moment to catch a fresh breeze. We sit watching the wind bend the corn stalks in emerald waves, hearing the unrestrained guffaws of laughter while we settle deep into play and drink in the sweet garden smells. There are no words to describe what our heart can sense. Each day of summer, with the sun kissed flora as a backdrop, we can find inspiration in the daisies, focus for our engaged mind, and strength for our soul.
Outside in the fall, waiting for the day to become night, the sun lowers as it heralds in the silvery moon. The turned leaves glisten as the shadows of the trees begin to dance, dappling the wood as it creates a new picture with each moment. We can find new joys to brighten our dreams, we can speak prayers of thanksgiving for God’s unending grace, we can find peace for our laden mind, and yes, it is well with our soul.