Why Hay and Yoga Pants Don't Mix, and Other Things I'm Learning

Looking over the garden.

Back in February my parents bought a home on 4 acres.  We moved with them and now live in the basement apartment portion of the home.  My dad is probably the most motivated person I know, and he hasn't stopped improving or adding to this already awesome place.  Animals will be on the way soon!  The mini farm life is still getting running but honestly this lifestyle is a dream.  It has been a huge source of happiness, and a boost while we are working through Taylor's mystery illness.

Hay bales ready to be collected.

My dad had the field mowed, and then several days later the loose hay was turned over. Who knew they had to do that!? The hay had to dry out apparently. Next the hay was baled.  Then the field was left with a sprinkling of long cubes which I have discovered is a look I have a particular love for!

Last night a bunch of us in the family got out there to collect the bales.

We had been swimming earlier that day and afterwards I came in and changed into comfy clothes. 

Now, countless articles about yoga pants circulate the internet and most of us have probably read at least one of them.  But no one can deny the wonder they possess and the happiness felt by those wearing them when the day is winding down.   Nacho Libre knew what he was doing.  

"Stretchy-pants."

They are great for winding down, but NOT great for working and playing with hay.  Ouch.

 I now know why farmers wear what they wear.  After just a couple of minutes of walking around in that field and trying to pick up several bales of hay, all I wanted was a pair of overalls, a long sleeve shirt, boots and gloves.  Just dress me like a scare-crow!  A t-shirt, spandex capris and Nike running shoes were NOT working for me.

 We all took turns going for "hay rides" but after sitting once with the kids on a hay bale, I had to go inside and change.  That was the only way to be rid of the many little hay needles poking me in my hind-quarters.

I put Theodore to bed and went back out to drive the truck while they loaded and unloaded the hay.

Empty field, ready for horses.

The sun set just prior to finishing the field, and the hard work (done mainly by the men in the family) was done.  I've continued to learn that hard work with family is such a blessing.  I've learned that this life is especially great for children, and above all I've found that peace can still be found in hard times.