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Leaving Fort Worth, we headed to the beautiful Texas Hill Country to visit friends who had moved from Joshua Tree, CA , to Fredericksburg, TX. Known for its German heritage, live music, art, and strong sense of community, Fredericksburg offers a unique charm. As one friend put it, it’s a town that “unapologetically serves God.”
Because Fredericksburg is a destination spot in the Hill Country of Texas, RV sites in this area are a bit our of our budget, but thankfully our friends let us stay on their property. Maneuvering our fifth wheel onto their property was quite an adventure, but Scott did it! I often marvel at his abilities. Our friends’ live on such a special property, featuring an old German home that adds to its charm.
Tip: If you need to find an RV spot in this area I suggest looking on ALL STAYS.
1. Hike Enchanted Rock, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Tip: Make reservations in advance
2. Walk Historic Main Street where you will find restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic buildings.
3.Take a short Hike up to the Cross at Cross Mountain Park. Our friends were part of our homeschool hiking squad back in Joshua Tree, so it was fun to be able to do a hike with them.
* We don't drink anymore, but if you do this area is known for their wineries.
1. Embrace Living Books: Opt for quality literature that ignites passion and engagement. Some Examples include: "The Story of the World," "The Magic School Bus," "The Secret Garden," "Anne Frank," and "Pilgrim's Progress."
2. Nature Study: Encourage exploration and connection with the natural world. Spend time outdoors observing, sketching, and journaling about plants and animals.
3. Short, Focused Lessons: Keep lessons brief yet impactful, dedicating 15-20 minutes to each subject throughout the day.
4. Narration: Replace worksheets with narration exercises, where children retell what they've learned in their own words.
5. Character Development: Prioritize kindness, responsibility, and attentiveness, focusing on one habit at a time.
6. Art and Music Appreciation: Introduce children to great works of art and classical music, fostering discussions about emotions and aesthetics.
It's a wonderful model to incorporate into any household, whether homeschooling or not.
Jesus conquered death by taking our sins to the cross, being buried, and rising on the third day. This truth is backed by historical evidence, eyewitness accounts (over 500 people), the bold transformation of the disciples, the empty tomb, and fulfilled prophecies.
• How does Jesus’ victory over death shape the way you face life’s challenges?
Through Him, we gain a new life filled with purpose and eternal promise. While work, possessions, and status are fleeting, we can invest in what lasts forever by living confidently in Christ, both now and for eternity.
• How does this promise of new life in Christ reshape your view of worldly success and possessions?
A meaningful relationship with God shows in our fruits—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
• Do those around you—friends, family, even strangers—see these fruits in your life?
If you’re like me, it’s a work in progress guided by the Holy Spirit. My hope is that these fruits shine through us, drawing others closer to Jesus by our example.
Join me as I share our experiences and insider tips from a local!
Where we stayed
Because Fredericksburg is a destination spot in the Hill Country of Texas, RV sites in this area are a bit our of our budget, but thankfully our friends let us stay on their property. Maneuvering our fifth wheel onto their property was quite an adventure, but Scott did it! I often marvel at his abilities. Our friends’ live on such a special property, featuring an old German home that adds to its charm.
Tip: If you need to find an RV spot in this area I suggest looking on ALL STAYS.
ACTIVITIES
1. Hike Enchanted Rock, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.
Tip: Make reservations in advance
2. Walk Historic Main Street where you will find restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic buildings.
3.Take a short Hike up to the Cross at Cross Mountain Park. Our friends were part of our homeschool hiking squad back in Joshua Tree, so it was fun to be able to do a hike with them.
Suggestions from a Local
- Pacific War Museum and Japanese Garden
- Pioneer Museum
- Marktplatz Farmers Market ( Dancehall Nights and outdoor skating rink around Christmas)
- Pedernales Falls State Park- has a swimming hole and camping!
- Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park- has it all ( including an RV park)
- Don't miss the Gillespie County Fair if visiting in the fall!
Food Scene
- Coffee Shops: RockHaus Coffee and Sunday Supply
- 50's Style Ice cream and food: Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery and Deli
- Italian: Pasta Bella
- Pizza: West End Pizza
- German Food- Friedhelm's Bavarian Inn
* We don't drink anymore, but if you do this area is known for their wineries.
Homeschool- Charlotte Mason
I love the Charlotte Mason approach to homeschooling.
My kids have thrived with living books, nature study, and a focus on character development. Mason emphasized respecting children and nurturing their curiosity through “living education.”
When a friend mentioned a Charlotte Mason school in her town, I had to visit. The peaceful classrooms, garden, and even the chickens were a joy to see. My daughter said if she ever went to a traditional school, it would have to be like that.
If you’re curious about homeschooling the Charlotte Mason way or want to bring her principles into your home, here are some tips:
1. Embrace Living Books: Opt for quality literature that ignites passion and engagement. Some Examples include: "The Story of the World," "The Magic School Bus," "The Secret Garden," "Anne Frank," and "Pilgrim's Progress."
2. Nature Study: Encourage exploration and connection with the natural world. Spend time outdoors observing, sketching, and journaling about plants and animals.
3. Short, Focused Lessons: Keep lessons brief yet impactful, dedicating 15-20 minutes to each subject throughout the day.
4. Narration: Replace worksheets with narration exercises, where children retell what they've learned in their own words.
5. Character Development: Prioritize kindness, responsibility, and attentiveness, focusing on one habit at a time.
6. Art and Music Appreciation: Introduce children to great works of art and classical music, fostering discussions about emotions and aesthetics.
It's a wonderful model to incorporate into any household, whether homeschooling or not.
Resources:
- To find brick and mortar schools- https://amblesideschools.org/
- Free online curriculum and resources- https://www.amblesideonline.org/index
- Paid curriculum- https://www.alveary.org
- Podcasts- ADE- A Delectable Education and Charolette Mason Poetry
Overall Experience
We loved our time in the Hill Country and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Texas!
Isn’t it amazing how God brings the right people into our lives at just the right time? We met our friends from Joshua Tree only a few months before they moved, but their impact has been lasting.
Their creativity and unconventional outlook challenged us to see life differently—beyond the 9-to-5 grind and traditional milestones. Their courage and authenticity encouraged us to embrace our own unique path. My friend’s openness and vulnerability created an instant bond, especially as we connected over shared trials.
Isn’t that just like God?
1 Peter 1:3 (MSG)
What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now!
Reflection
• How does Jesus’ victory over death shape the way you face life’s challenges?
Through Him, we gain a new life filled with purpose and eternal promise. While work, possessions, and status are fleeting, we can invest in what lasts forever by living confidently in Christ, both now and for eternity.
• How does this promise of new life in Christ reshape your view of worldly success and possessions?
A meaningful relationship with God shows in our fruits—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
• Do those around you—friends, family, even strangers—see these fruits in your life?
If you’re like me, it’s a work in progress guided by the Holy Spirit. My hope is that these fruits shine through us, drawing others closer to Jesus by our example.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the resurrection and the new life I have through Jesus. You have triumphed over death and invite me to share in eternal life with you. Help me keep a heavenly perspective in this fleeting world. May I follow Jesus’ example, extending grace, embracing the marginalized, and bearing the fruits of your Spirit. Thank you for seeking a personal relationship with me, hearing my prayers, and caring for even my smallest concerns.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
- I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below.
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