So the daffodils are blooming and I remember planting them right before Poppy was born, knowing (hoping) that I would show them to her in the early spring. It would be, I hoped, a signal that it was time to come out of my winter sabbath. I think I’m ready. I already have the doors and windows open in the midday, cleaning out the air inside. And Poppy is in my arms, thanks be to God.
It’s a bit of a mess outside. So much rain this year means plenty of fallen trees, broken branches, and copious amounts of MUD. Oy, the mud and the flood and the whatever-else-rhymes with that. We’ve brought in several loads of rock to re-find and re-pave the walkways, and added some gates to keep the toddlers safe as they play in the backyard.
The driveway gate practically disintegrated so that was replaced. Hopefully it will keep the neighbor dogs from visiting and having spats with my maremma (who could chew their heads off, really). I was sad to lose the hops that was growing up the sides of the old gate, though.
In the back, we are bolstering up the raised beds. They’ve been topped with cardboard, and we’re in the process of filling it with fresh topsoil and compost. It’s nice to see chard from yesteryear coming up. I’m not quite ready to take on the whole garden project as I am still dealing with the house itself, and of course I’m mothering a 3 month old in addition to a 2 year old, and Ruby (six, but acts like she’s 2). So this year I’ve handed the whole garden project to my 13yo and 17yo girls. Have at it, I say. I’ll just be here to manage, give advice, and write the checks for seeds. Better to let them learn and make mistakes here, before they begin their own homes. Right?
I’ll get my own chance to get my hands in dirt, though. This is one of the spots I’ve claimed to rejuvenate and grow some herbs. There’s a lot of buttercup in here so my work is cut out for me. Hmmm, maybe I can give my boys a job…
It smells like spring, and I’m just starting to stir. What a wonderful landscape I’m in. I’m thankful for what’s here, and for the opportunities. I’m also thankful for the help we’ve gotten in these projects, and am very much looking forward to tackling the house with gusto too. It will make for some good blog reading, I’m sure! 🙂
Blessings,
Looks like you guys have been busy. I’m trying to talk myself into getting some seeds started inside. I’m so tired with this fourth preegnancy, I’m having a hard time talking myself into much. Lol but I know my eight year old son loves to garden and will water for me all summer happily. So for his sake I’m sure I’ll talk myself into it. Thanks for the inspiration…..
Well, the collective *we* have been busy…a friend helped us with the gates and I personally haven’t shoveled any dirt yet. I’m gonna let my daughters play with seeds…I think I’d like to just use some starts. I just don’t have the energy for it all yet :/