"Live in each season as it passes;

breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influences of each. Let them be your only diet, drink, and botanical medicines".

Henry David Thoreau

I thought I'd come by for an early morning hello, after a good long while away. It's beautiful here. Very much so. This morning, the sun's once again shining intensely warm and bright, after a couple of gray days of here and there blustery winds and stormy rain. I'm hoping to get things squared away and make my way out the door and to my 3 mile walk of the road, soon.

I've been walking nearly every day again, enjoying the time with either Rosie, or Julia, while the other kindly stays back at home, to tend to the little ones and hold down the fort 'til we return. The couple of days back, before the rain set in for a time, seemed to be the official turning point of Spring having come, to stay. I walked along with Julia, and the beauty that met us was so profound that we spoke barely a word our entire walk. Lushest greens in every shade. Apple trees in blossom on either side, so lovely. Their scent so sweet. Marsh Marigold (perhaps you've seen it, too), in cheerful profusion. A chorus of bird song (neighborly friendly and singing in perfect harmony), rising and falling, steadily all along our way. The sky, a vast expanse of "Raleigh scattering" bluest of blue, not a cloud to be found. I closed my eyes tightly, like a little girl with not a care in the world, face upturned softly kissed by the sun, breathing in through my nose...... a chest full of that singularly delicious Springtime air. Drinking in every single drop of the too-good-to-be-true wonder, all around. It was magical. It really was. More than a few of those, "Time out of mind", must be heavenly, illuminated moments, that you wish you could capture and take away with you, to hold for always.

James, and Joseph, (and their good buddy, Rudy) built a  nice big greenhouse  as soon as the ground was warm enough to  work, and it's now filled to overflowing with good things.

There are some more photos of James plowing the upper field with the horses, here, for those that have the time and would like to see them. It's continually amazing to me, how very uniquely different even the children of one family can be from one another. People overall, really. How special that it's so. I always pray that I'll hold my own hopes and dreams and plans for each of my children ever so loosely, allowing them to blossom and become just who it is that God created them to be.

I find that I'm so strong in what I believe, in what I like and love and enjoy. And, it seems the more naturally, gently, softly-in-love, that I share--as friend to friend--the more closely my dear children listen, hear and attend to what it is that I have to say, yet still freely journey along each on their own way, of individualism, and in time step-by-step, on into adulthood. It really is a day-by-day becoming and letting go, as they, and we, make our way. Such a wondrous thing.

Though everyone joins in and shares in just about everything, homestead-wise, around here, there are definitely some strong bents one way or otherwise, inside and out of each one of the children. Wesley, has his own computer-based business, that has allowed him, Claire, and the girls, to live wherever they like (which is, thankfully, just down the road from us. And, from Claire's wonderful parents, Jim and Linda, as well.). Joseph, would have so similar rumblings to Wesley, inside, and is blessed to work for and learn from, Wesley. That, think, think, think, and sit in that chair and think some more type of wiring. While James, on the other hand, though he loves to read, read, read, cannot be bound to the computer, or even the house, for any length of time at all. He loves being outdoors--in the extreme. Loves, wide open spaces, fresh air and sunshine, cold of winter, heat of summer. Organic farming, has been so delightfully the very thing, for him.

I watched, through the eyes of a mother's heart, (the day I took the photos of him plowing.....a friendly hello and thank-you, Mark) which filled with tears, as he looked to be the very definition of contentment, to me. He was in his element, and his joy seemed to know no bounds. What a precious thing when the work of our hands, and minds, is a sweet pleasure to us and not a burden, as our true God-given bents and giftings are what are employed. This, is what I pray for each of my children, in His way, in His time.

Our days continue to flow along the steady same, comfortably familiar stream, of early rising, breakfast together, then chores, and farewells for those that are to be off and away for the day. Some table time, and lots of reading with the little ones, while the older ones study, for the most part, independently on their own. The garden is in full swing. Baby goats being born, being bottle-fed, hugged and lugged, sprawled out sunning themselves on the back porch landing, and occasionally bumbling and tumbling in through the back door, with a jumble of carelessfree little ones. Doors and windows are opened wide with freshest air and sunlight streaming through. So nice. Bread's in the oven most every morning, buttered and enjoyed as soon as it's pulled out of the oven, with enough left over for lunch, and again, for supper time, for those that might like it. Good hard work, good food,  endless gifted bouquets in mason jars, good books, good conversation, good friends and kind neighbors.

I thought I'd share a couple of the simplest poems that I wrote, not too long ago--for the little ones to memorize--as those first gifts of the rumblings of Spring were beginning to stir in my own heart.

Spring's Song, and Spring's Dance.

Spring's Song 

********** 

Somewhat sleepy, still

Spring is yawning awake.

There is so much to do

That can no longer wait.

Birdsong, bud-swell,

Bluest sky,

Dark, rich earth,

Infused with her wonder,

Warmth bringing re-birth.

As slowly with grace,

Legs swung over the bed

She stretches her arms

Up above her head.

She smiles.

She sings.

It's the loveliest song,

That we all have been waiting for

Cold winter long.

She slips into her sweater
And wraps it 'round tight,

But, as she keeps singing

The sky fills with light.

As the days each grow longer

She goes later to bed.

And, she's tired, but pleased,

For with pleasure she's been

Working hard at her play,

Her toil her delight,

The fruit of her labors

Such a magical sight.

At this point, I must take pause and say, not only was "Spring" still snuggly wrapped 'round in her sweater, but was still donning her striped tights, as well. This said, I'm happy to report that I am beyond-a-shadow-of-a-doubt certain, that she has at long last shed them both, and is now running at full-tilt, bare-armed, bare-legged, and bare-footed, through the tall green grass (which will this very day, be cut, it's so long) having set all in motion, with much of her most difficult work now behind her and done.

 
And, this next poem....

Though we are not Amish (which I only mention, because a dear friend told me that the blog can have a feel to it which somewhat gives that impression ;o), we do live in an Amish community, so, many of our friends/and neighbors *being* Amish, we do have alot of day-to-day involvement with them.

This said, James, and Joseph, were busy one early spring day, on the next road over from ours, working with their dearest Amish friend, Rudy, taking down a great big old barn, and silo. Rosie and I, were heading out for the day, on our weekly off and away shopping trip, and had to stop by so she could discuss something with the guys. I stayed back in the van with the little ones, and while I waited I sat quietly by and watched as a young Amish friend walked on ahead and down the road.

It was one of the very first warm days in farewell of Winter (that was to "smile upon us" with snowfall, several more times, again, before all was finally said and done) though not yet Spring, and the promise of new life, in just poked out burgeoning emergence, and to come, was palpable. He was about 10 years old and had a truly carefree  heart, as light as a feather--this in itself was so precious to see. The quiet country road was a long rolling ribbon stretching out before him, and as he made his solitary way along, he stepped merrily, not merely ahead, but back and forth as well, bobbing in dancing, swinging his arms wide. I watched him go for about 5 blissful minutes--suspended in time, until he came, all too soon, to the crest of a hill and finally disappeared to the other side. Rosie, climbed back into the van, mid-stream, and I shushed her, and drew her attention to what was to be the sweetest gifting of the day. I wiped tears away. We both smiled wide. I'm sure I bit my lip, my tell-tale expression of overly much soft feeling, inside. These words are the simplest littlest remembrance of that loveliest of late Winter giving way to early Spring, days.

Spring's Dance

***********

Spring, winked at me,

And smiled, today,

As a young Amish boy

Was makin' his way,

Down the long country road, finally free of snow,

Carefree in childhood, not a worry or woe.

Bent knees, swinging arms.

Bobbing, dancing, he strode.

And, again for those that have time and inclination, Just a few random photos of life, here at home. This fine day, in Spring. If I took the time to put all the photos on the post this morning, I wouldn't be walking, (and, shortly after that I have to head out shopping for the day) and this post, most likely, wouldn't be. ;o) Just "sticking my big toe back in the blogging waters". Wish me well.

Thanks, so very much, for all of your sweet notes in the comments and emails. Thanks for the thoughtful, loving, Easter and Mother's Day notes, and occasional notes of caring concern. You're very kind. I will be sure and post as often as life allows. Thanks for being so understanding of the fact that it seems it sometimes just doesn't too often. I miss sharing and visiting as often as I might like, but am grateful for the time that I am able to do both. The seasons are ever and always changing, and it is my true desire to  "Live in each season as it passes", fully and well.

I hope that each of you, and yours, have a beautiful day, today, and each day, until I "see you" again (and, you never know, it could [far more amazing things have happened] even be tomorrow ;o).
The Lord bless you and keep you.

Thanks, for the time and thought that you take, in sending your friendly hellos. I appreciate and enjoy each one, so much.

Lovingly, Jewels

P.S. It feels so strange to be hitting publish, with only 3 photos on the post. I just don't do such things, (c'mon, you can say it) do I?  Wink and a smile.

And, that said, well, hey.....I guess I'll pop on this last photo, recently taken of, from left to right, Rosie, James, Joseph, and Wesley--deep in thought (each apparently, about something different and somewhere else. Interesting, I know :o). Just what, and why they would, each one, have these particular(ly) sour-ish expressions on their faces, I do not know. Smile. What I did find interesting to note (which I haven't ever had occasion to take note of before) is the fact that each of the brothers are standing, nearly identically, positioned the very same, weight on left leg, right leg shot out to the side ;o) Though Rosie, it seems, all girl through-and-through, has taken to doing her own thing, of the hand on hip while standing on one leg variety (which she so often does, and would apparently have in common with, hmmmm.....who what would it be?? A stork? A crane? Flamingo?  ;o) I will hasten to add, in publicly pointing out her uniqueness, that I can only imagine, that it requires some very real (and God-given) talent, to stand thus, especially with your hand on your hip, while in deepest thought over "whatever".

Well, If I'm really going to be going, I'd better get goin' off and out for my walk, because when that's done, it's back, and time to set to packing everyone up for our big day away shopping (as the "country mouse goes to the city", you know). Our Amish friend, Ada, (who happens to be, the dear Rudy's, dear wife) will be going along with us. I'm feeling those happy rumblings inside, of, *it's going to be a really great day* ;o)

So, that said, I am now

really, for surely,

going....
going....
gone....

Jewels

Comments

[Kay]

It's lovely to see you posting again - you have been sorely missed.
Kay - Cornwall, England

[Jen]

What a blessing this was to me today. I too will be going, going and gone - to create my own wonderful day with my kids :) I am happy to say that beginning this summer or fall, or whatever, we will be homeschooling our children! Oh, my heart leaps with joy that I will have them with me again all day :)

Blessings Jewel :)

[Mamalama]

Yay! A new post! :)
I just last evening enjoyed watching the bread-making episode of the sweet West Ladies' Homestead Blessings series (my 5yo son enjoyed it, too!), and had come over here to link to the pics of your visit with them.
What a happy surprise it was to see you'd found the time to share a bit with us!
Thank you for the lovely pics, and for sharing your lovely life.
Have a wonderful Town Day, Dear Jewels! :)
(p.s. after noticing your friend's name is Ada, I just have to share...we are 30 weeks along with our 8th baby blessing, and were fortunate to be able to have one of those AMAZING 4-D ultrasounds for the first time ever. It's a girl!! Our sixth, and we've decided to name her Ruby Adeline after a grand- and a great-grandmother.)
Happy Spring! Robin

[Erin]

Inspired again by your choice to find beauty and joy all around you. I'll have to keep a more watchful eye today.

Thank you,
Erin

[Karen]

Yahoo, you are back! What a beautiful post today! My husband and I had our "coffee time" today and he shared with me from the lovely book he's reading about the Celts. We talked about fully BEING in creation and it jives with your heart today, too! I hope your walk was wonderful. I am loving my blog, too. So creative and real it is to share our observations with others, don't you think? I'm off to school, so happy you had time to post again! Bless you, sweet one.

[shelley p]

Dearest Jewels, what a lovely surprise to see you had posted, just what I needed after lunch with a coffee a lovely read. To see James with the horses plowing...spring time is lovely with all the new growth and knowing that under ground treasures are waiting to pop their heads through the soil. I'm glad you and your dear family are well, growing up with the years and willing to take on new adventures. I hope you had a good day in the city. Prayers and blessings to you all.

Shelley p
from over the pond.

[Cinnamon]

I am so glad to see you're back for a bit. I do enjoy your "ramblings"......they are so peaceful and cozy~

~Cinnamon

[Ronda]

Good morning my sweet friend :)

I have missed you so. Missed hearing (reading) your thoughts, happenings, lifes words that you share and so on.

I love the greenhouse that your boys built, it's lovely and will be greatly used I'm sure.

You have been in my thoughts and prayers for many, many things, yet especially for your health. I pray that the winters cold, harsh, and damp, did little to cause you discomfort. Although I know how those things can, and often do affect certain conditions. I know you are a very strong woman, and filled with great faith in Our Loving Lord. That, as it is for me, is where I know your strength (in all areas) comes from. Yet you have been and shall continue to be, ever in my prayers.

I just so truly enjoyed hearing about all of the new goings on in your life.
Please make sure to continue to enjoy ALL the tiny details of all your children, for as you know, they shall all to quickly be gone from your nest, (as mine are). Enjoy my sweet friend. What a bounty of blessings you have.

Thank you again for sharing yourself with us. You touch our lives in ways that are often hard to explain. What a gentle and wondrous blessing you are. Thank You Jewels.

Love & Prayers Always,
Ronda

[Rain]

So happy to see a new post up. Always such sweet encouragement. Blessings to you and your lovely family!

[Jackie]

So happy to see a post from you. I checked on a whim. Thank you for brightening my day. Jackie

[Mandy]

I was so pleased to see that you had posted today, it gave me such joy. Have a wonderful day.
Mandy
Outer Hebrides

[Deanna (Mrs. Rabe)]

Dear Jewels,

Welcome back...I was just thinking of you last evening, hoping we would hear from you soon!

Spring is a delight and life is so full....take care and enjoy your family! Maybe you will be able to pop in a bit more often! That would be so fun!

[Vanessa]

What a beautiful description of springtime! I love your description of family life. It gives me hope for the future!

[Angela]

Its lovely to see a new post from you, before I head off to bed (Australia).I love your Spring-time poems. Enjoy your walking. I love to walk too and sometimes bikeriding.The photo of your son with the horses is fantastic. It's really made my week to visit as it's been a tough one. I appreciate you allowing us to visit. Thanks so much Jewels and God bless.
Angela

[Corrina]

God bless you and your family....such a continual source of encouragement for myself raising a young family! I was delighted to see that you posted again! I find myself coming to your blog over and over, if not to look at old posts but just to listen to the beautiful music you have on here. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. With much love and deep gratitude that only Christ can provide, Corrina

[Kimberly]

Oh Happy Day!!! A lovely note from a true Jewel! *smile*
Early quiet time, exercise, time in the garden, blooming iris, breakfast with my sweet boy, and a post from you. All in all, a wonderful start to a glorious day!

[Sarah]

I hope you had a wonderful treasure hunt. So lovely to 'see' you again, and visit your cozy corner.

[meredith]

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

You too. Thank God for providing what I needed today in your post. He is ever present, ever loving. Thank you for following his will. :)

[Mary]

Dear, Dear Jewels,
What a joy to see you back! I loved the poems and your comments and especially loved the photos of James plowing the upper field. I grew up on my Grandparents' farm and remember my grandfather plowing with a horse. What wonderful memories your children will have of life's simple pleasures.
I am praying you and your family will have many more joyous times together this Spring and coming Summer.We recently have been blessed by the arrival of our 10th great-grandchild, Josiah.
Love,
Mary

[Kathy]

It's so wonderful to hear from you again, Jewels!
What lovely photos! My Mary is the same way, about not being able to be indoors for long. She loved that picture of James driving the team.
Your post was inspirational and beautiful, as always.
Blessings to you and your family,
~Kathy

[Cheryl (Copper's Wife)]

So fun to see you pop up on Google reader late this morning just as my daughter and I are preparing to head to town for our own "mega shop" that we do once every two weeks in the city. Your posts are something to look forward to!

Love the photos, and I don't mind a bit waiting for them to load on Flicker!

God bless you as you look well to the ways of your household

[Katy]

Loved your post...loved your poems and loved the pictures...as always! ;) So glad you are doing well and I was thrilled to see an updated post from you! I, too, have less and less time from the computer it seems. Life does, too quickly, pass us by and I know I want to experience it!

I love that you have baby goats being born. I would love to have a goat or two...smaller sized ones. I try to convince my husband...but still not taking to it yet. Although...years ago, I had wanted chickens and he was totally against it. Then months later, out of nowhere he said he would like to get some chickens! :o) Now we have many...and have had them for a few years. Getting fresh eggs daily is absolutely wonderful!!!! We have an over abundance of eggs. We sell the rest or else give them away to family and friends.

Gosh...look at me...going on and on! I just wanted to truly say "hello" and so glad you are well! Have a fantastic weekend!!!

[Islandsparrow]

*Happy sigh* a visit with Jewels

[Islandsparrow]

You would smile to see my straining my neck to read the titles of the books on your shelves - what a lovely bunch of Happy Hollister books and a Beany Malone too. Some of my childhood favourites. You must have found a good library sale :)

[Kelly]

Oh, I'd love to see what you're doing inside that green house. It sounds exciting.