We’re spending our day today cleaning up some trees that fell over last winter & this past summer on our land.  We gave away the last of our wood pile to some friends a couple of weeks ago so we need to replenish our supply for this winter.  I spent part of yesterday moving all of my plants away from & off of the wood stove & getting the wood holders ready.

We recently were able to buy 3 1/2 more acres of timber from our former neighbor who sold their property.   Outside of the timber around our property is a lot of agricultural land; mostly corn & bean fields.  We’re always worried someone will buy the land that meets our property line and clear out the trees.  That is our biggest fear.  When the opportunity to purchase the extra few acres arose we jumped at the chance.

This past winter we found a lot of red elm trees that had fallen.  We try to only use wood from trees that have fallen on their own.

Grease Monkey inspecting the elm

I’m also spending some of my day getting our new windows ready for our shed.  We made the not so wise choice of purchasing windows with no stain or varnish.  While it is nice to get the satisfaction of doing some things on your own, this is one task I would be happy to not partake in.  🙂

I took a break from window staining to sit by our pond.  It is days like today that force me to remember how lucky and grateful I am to be surrounded by nature everyday.  We all are.  I know how hectic our lives can be, but it is so vital to take some time out of your busy schedule to soak in the sun and the beauty that surrounds us.  I find it’s what keeps me sane sometimes.  I’m not a huge fan of hashtags, but if I had to choose one for today, it would be #grateful.

~ Lacey ~