I am ashamed to admit that last week was our first visit to the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock. How have I lived in Greenville my entire life and not been? Surely this is a crime.

The grounds are breathtaking. The only thing missing on this day was the sun.

Okay. Put your listening ears on for a minute. Do not, I repeat, do not wear flip flops or sandals when you go. You might regret it. Mom did. The trek up the mountain to the actual house is not paved all the way up. Also, it’s a bit of an incline. Not a steep one, but an incline, nonetheless. It wasn’t a huge issue for us – the physically fit – but I’d hate for you guys to struggle. (I hear you laughing). 

Before I get to the goats (because that was everyone’s favorite), let’s talk butterflies! There’s a Monarch Butterfly habitat inside one of the buildings closest to the house. Preston was enthralled. I can’t wait to take JP. He loves Monarch Butterflies.

I picked up this puzzle to use as part of JP’s science curriculum. I don’t know if you can see, but it is full of information.

Carl Sandburg’s wife loved goat farming. That was actually the reason he purchased this home.

 The farm was completely open. I didn’t realize we’d be able to walk around with the free-roaming goats. For typical people, this wouldn’t be a big deal. To someone who is skittish around livestock, it was bit of a challenge. I’d like to take a moment to pat myself on the back. I overcame my nervousness and was able to enjoy myself. Thank God there weren’t any cows. 

Guess who was excited to get their Junior Ranger vest and badge?!

As I said in the beginning of this post, it’s a SHAME we are only just now visiting the Carl Sandburg Home. The site is rich in history. I’m purposefully not sharing it with you, because I’m working on an article that I will share once it’s published. It’s a must see! 

Carl Sandburg Home is open seven days a week – closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.