Kids keepin' busy

I can't believe it has only been two weeks that we have lived here, I can't believe how much our lives and daily routine have changed.  There is so much work but also so much fun.  For the most part it is the adults doing the work (which Paul is finding surprisingly satisfying) and the kids are off having their fun.  I need to find a large dinner bell to call them all back in.

The littlest ones are still by my side but wait at the gates for a chance to roam free with the big kids.  Here is George in just a diaper, breakfast soaked jammie top and probably bare feet.  He is quick and cheerful in pointing out toads and butterflies, and even quicker with his kicking and screaming as I carry him back to the fenced yard.

Clara is helpful but often distracted by anything that flowers. 

Here is Henry roaming free with his harmonica.

William's constant companion has been his North American Wildlife book.  He is quick to reference anything unfamiliar and quick to share proper identification (and size, and habitat, and diet, and life span....).  Here he has identified some raccoon tracks.  And come to think of it, I am just now identifying those shorts as the same shorts he's been wearing day after day after day, the boy must have been busy this week!

James has confirmed raccoon droppings with the scat guide.  There is talk of all sorts of predators in our area so the boys are always looking out for fresh droppings.

Peter is anxious to catch a fish.  We were told the pond was well stocked with perch and bass but so far we've only caught weeds, but just sitting by the water and waiting is still fun.  I promised I'd help him push out the row boat one of these days.  But I've been busy too.  I'm anxious to find my feet here and join in on all the fun.