Hay, there!

Twenty to twenty-five of our acres are hay. 

Our neighbor just happens to be a "hay farmer," 

So he cuts and bails the hay for us and then Steve bought a hay elevator so that we could boost it up into the hay lofts of the barns for storage. 

If you look closely you can see the hay bail that has just shot out of the bailer 

and into the air to go into the trailer.

The elevator hooks up to Steve's tractor and move the conveyer.

The kids all helped load the hay onto the conveyer

Connor to drinks to the workers.

(Our neighbor had a couple of friend working with him too.)

Jake managed the loft. Making sure the hay was all stacked in even piles in the correct places.

It was a loooong, hot, exhausting day! 

But, I think everyone enjoyed this new adventure.

Jake even joined the older guys in taking off his shirt and lifting hay.

He later found it was a very itchy way to go, but he was very "cool" while he was doing it!

This is Paigey just realizing that she lost her flip flop in the hay bails. 

Oops! Guess we'll see that next Spring! :)

The Woodshop

The kids have been hard at work this week in their "workshop."  

They have each created some pretty neat things. 

It's amazing what a little imagination, determination and wood can put out!

Paige made a treasure box, complete with hinges!

Connor made a chair and stool.

Or lap desk (it's got a dual use!).

He even sold his first piece to Mrs. Jobmann for $15

He named his company "Made It Myself."

And Jake made his very own bat box for the loft of the barn!

You just have to love how God gives each one of us gifts, abilities and interests and when we put our minds to it...no matter how young or old, He can use those gifts to bring about great things. I'm sure this is just the beginning!

Horseback Riding Lessons

The kids are taking Riding Lessons and the LOVE it!

Paigey.

We are learning ALL the responsibilities that go with owning a horse!

Jake.

Connor.

Florida Fun & Games

A little playground fun!

Tennis, anyone?

Basketball?

Sunbathing?

It's a rough life, but it's been a wonderful refreshment for us!

And when we're not outside enjoying the fun activities before us, 

we're inside listening to Jonathan Park or the CD story of Hudson Taylor and drawing.

(Oh, yes! And we're doing school, too!)

A little drawing time, poolside.

Best Buddies!!

We received pics today from back home. 

Things are starting to bud.

Sad to be missing it, but we really are enjoying this time!

Jake found a little baby frog.