I am just stopping by to update...it seems everything in my life has to be done very quickly!
Right now every one else is downstairs in the basement, even Bradyn, in the baby swing. I left saying, "All right guys, he is in your care!" (don't think any one heard me) They are 'hunting bears' on the computer. But if he has any needs; he'll be sure to let them know!
Once again today Jason went to church with the children we decided are (hopefully) healthy enough, which was only the two oldest. By this Wed. it will be two weeks of the stomach flu hanging around our house. Not to mention it being the second round, a few weeks ago every one, except Jennika got it! although this time only the littlest ones were sick. I keep looking into these little white faces, and feel so bad for them! They want to eat; at least a little bit, but always end up with a tummy ache. I am doing everything I can think of to help them get better. Probiotics, and the 'BRAT' diet, lots of fluids, ect.  Venesa had diarrhea for an entire week. So glad she was quite willing to do her stuff in the toilet! No diaper could've held it in! Eric has thrown up three times this week, each time with a day in between.  
So anyway, this winter has been long for everyone....and if I think we got hit hard by sickness,
my brother's family had plenty of the usual sickness plus chicken pox and whooping cough!
There is always something to be thankful for that inspires us to count our blessings!
Last week we got a start on garden planting. We planted peas, onions, brussel sprouts,some spinach, and lots of flower seeds. I gave the children room for their own mini gardens. It was a sacrifice of space, but I remember how happy I was as a child to have my very own garden! 
This morning I walked around outside discovering all the things that have budded or made their way out of the ground. I was pleased that the rhubarb plant my sister gave me last fall is growing very nicely. In fact, I think it made my day! :) Close to where that is growing, I have a lavender plant... oh, it is so fragrant when it blooms! The meadow tea is growing, and the lilacs are budding. It is hard to believe that in a month they'll be blooming.