Shrinking the Piles

In amidst all of our other shenanigans we've been clearing the yard of large branches and excess piles of leaves. Most of these pictures are from one rather long and dedicated weekend, but it's been replicated a couple times over. :o) Generally Hannah helps for a little while, but then she wanders off to play with her crafts or Little People. (As long as she's happy to occupy herself with a sweet spirit, we're quite content with the arrangement!)
Peter, on the other hand, is limited ONLY by his size. I keep forgetting to take pictures, but he's been out there right next to Daddy for the full experience every time Daddy's out there. We saw a picture of a rope the other day, and immediately he starts urgently pointing out the window where Daddy used a rope to pull down a dead branch the previous weekend. Chris followed that up by asking what you do with a chain saw, and Peter pointed out the back window and made a sawing motion. He's a quick study! :o) This particular weekend we also found a box turtle! :o) (Nope! We didn't keep him!)

We've now burned two large piles of yard waste, just one more big one to go. :o)

I bought chocolate bars today so we can make smores at the next one! :o)

It's been tiring work, but the Lord just keeps reminding me to be thankful--by His grace, we are more than able to do it! He's blessed us with good health and strong bodies. We have many friends who are not able to do be out and "doing" due to illness or injury. We're thankful for His strength! :o)