Slowly but surely we are creeping out of Winter and into Spring. I realize that without the contrasting seasons we would likely take our favorite temperatures for granted. But I am ready for the increasing warmth and daylight. I am ready for all things green and full of life. Just yesterday we all rejoiced after noticing the tomato seeds we planted last week had sprouted.
Here we are in February and starting to have longer days and
some are feeling warmer than others. The
warm days draw us out to take in the sunshine and even do a project or
two. It’s rather sad how much the
weather affects my productivity. I don’t
seem to thrive in the winter months like I do the rest of the year. Needless to say, I look forward to
Spring. I think the animals will be
grateful for the change of seasons as well.
Recently we were able to enjoy a couple of those nice warm
days. I cleaned the barn porch. I had to scrub the chairs and nesting box and
floor. Everything was covered in red
dirt from the chicken run. We also ran
electricity to the barn. We now have a
light and some plugs which is amazing! I
also planted onion starts in the garden and they are still green, so that’s a
plus!
The kids had a couple days out of school due to the
weather. Despite the cold temps and
wintery mix falling from the sky, they were out exploring the creek multiple
times a day. I decided to go with them a
few times just to get a change of scenery.
I love nature. It’s beautiful even
when everything is brown, but especially when highlighted by snow, sleet and
ice.
During the inside time, the kids found interest in sewing. They cut up old clothes and made things for
their babies/stuffed animals. We did a fun experiment using milk and vinegar. We also
let the kids make peanut butter cookies by themselves (except putting them in the
oven and taking them out). They did
great! We are learning to let them try
things even if it means letting them fail.
It can be hard not to hover over them but it is good for them to build
independence.
The kids have also had some fun sitting on the back porch shooting
BB guns and learning about gun safety. I
love the back porch of the house because the North wind is blocked and we get to
bask in the sun. It is also peppered
with muddy boots from exploring the creek. Note to self:
don’t leave the boots out or the dog will chew them.
All in all, I am thankful for the rain for our land and the extra
time I have gotten to spend with the kids this week. Spring is on the way and soon we will be busy
and look back at these cold months of inactivity with fond memories.
My Take-Aways:
- Don’t rush life. We have different seasons of life and they are all beneficial to who we are. Find the good and savor what each season affords.
- Let the kids get muddy. Let them explore nature despite the extra loads of laundry it may bring.
- Just as the rain and sunshine bring about life, the extra time spent with family leads to deeper relationships. Embrace it!
