leaves

Whenever we consider an easier way around the mountains of leaves in our yard... like buying a leaf blower, renting one, or even borrowing one for that matter... we always end up saying 'but raking is good exercise' and pull out the splinter-giving tools every year.

This is our yard. We live in the woods...and come fall, a new chainsaw starts looking like the perfect gift once again.


But with such perfect weather last weekend...we were able to accomplish this: All pumpkins were thrown away, all leaves were meticulously piled and bagged, and the lush green moss carpet that was hidden under the sea of brown was exposed and vibrant. We all stood around admiring the work, smiling with a sense of pride that we had done it.


It's amazing how a clean yard calls us out of our dusty home to do this:


And encouraged by his father, Joaquin even rode down the steps of our porch on his bike. Three times.
Until the wipeout.
A few tears were shed, and several bruises added to the collection, but I'm sure he'll be at it again. After all, it is Evel Knievel we're raising here.

But the winds have stirred, and now the rest of our unraked yard is slowly covering up that beautiful green. Just a few more weekends, and hopefully we'll have it up before the first snow.