Sunday Afternoon "Rest"

I know it seems sacrilegious, but one of the most restful things Joe and I can do on a Sunday is to work around our little "farm". Today, after a full morning with church and our final Quizzing obligations, we came home to "rest".
We rolled up our sleeves, donned our coats and work gloves, grabbed our young helpers and set to work pouring bark in the garden and around the backyard trees. I was able to put the slate steppers down on my newly laid path through the garden with the help of little muscles. Isabelle and I planted the garlic, radishes, and peas as well as a few cold-hardy flowers to add some color in our yet dreary and brown landscape. The sun was trying hard to warm us in spite of the chilly wind; and in the end, we all shed our outer garments once the warmth of hard work set in.
The porch rugs made their first appearance since late autumn and the porch furniture was set out, awaiting its turn to be cleaned and cared for. These are the days that bring me most joy -- the pleasure in a job well done, and one that is accomplished within the togetherness of family.