Natural Fun

There are definite advantages to having a farm in the family. This is the gravel pit where Grandpa Mike stores lumber, hay bales and firewood. Since his retirement as an accountant, the gravel pit is also the home to a sugar shack used to make maple syrup. As a result, there is no need for a school trip to the sugar bush for these kids.

Benjo lagging behind with his Mommy in tow.

Past the hay bales.

Past the firewood.

And on to the sugar shack.

Joseph insisted on parting ways with the backpack and walking on his own up the hill and into the bush. In this shot, he will have nothing to do with the offer of his father's hand. As a side note, we have never used the safety straps in the backpack as none of our children ever showed the desire to launch themselves out of the paternal roost. Then we met Joseph. Luckily, when the ejection took place, I was standing next to Dave and was able to catch the flying baby. Joseph's reaction was to look slightly perturbed at both of his parents for trying to ensure his well being.

Flying solo.

Joseph also has a habit of discarding his winter apparel. Alas, I am on his trail.

Grandpa and his friend, Herman, were beginning to install the taps and buckets. J and H carried the buckets from tree to tree with offers of help. Jacob became increasingly silly as time wore on and began to suggest that the saplings be tapped. Oldest son found this extremely funny as the taps are longer than the saplings are wide. Sigh, northern Ontario humour.

I believe that Joseph is searching for the ejection button. Remind me to sue the backpack carrier company for not equipping the pack with a parachute.

Checking for sap.

Riding on the tractor with Herman.

Ben thanking God for tractors. No wonder Fr. Galen is his godfather.