The weather was raining today, so we are hoping that April showers bring May flowers holds true soon. Yesterday, though, we were able to work outside and in the gardens. The compost piles have been sifted through and turned for the spring, with wonderful rich compost spread over the garden beds. We had so much ready this year that some went into the outdoor chicken run. The chickies have been having a field day scratching through it for insects and treats.


Simon is getting the hang of walking on the uneven ground outside finally. At first the vastness of the outdoors seemed to scare him, but now he is enjoying being out there. He complains if the older children are out and he cannot go as well. I am hoping he will not have his older brother's love of eating dirt, sticks and rocks.


When I was clearing the leaves out of the front flower bed, I was thrilled to spot countless ladybugs under them. After seeing nothing but Japanese beetles in recent years, or so it feels like, the plethora of ladybugs was fabulous.

Breezes play melodies of light on petals
Each note calling to birds, bees, and lady bugs to linger awhile
Drink in the nectar and radiance of spring.
~ excerpt from Promise of Spring by Ann Winter