One of the first things people say to me when they hear that we have so many animals here is something along the lines of "That's so great for your kids to grow up around all that!"

I couldn't agree more. Of course, I never know exactly what lessons the person might have in mind when they say that, but I can think of lots.

The kids learn responsibility. They learn husbandry. They learn an appreciation of local food. They learn how rewarding it is to work together on a project. They know the satisfaction of eating food that you've raised yourself. They know the joy of new life and the pain of life's end. I could go on and on.

And, they're not just fair weather farmers. Girl 1 has been in the milking shed with us in 20-degree weather at 5:30am nearly every morning since Nutmeg came home. And, she's smiling about it!

I'm pretty sure Nutmeg is smiling, too, as Girl 1 spoils her with peanuts before heading off to feed all the other animals. And, she's not the only one. Girl 2 loves to help Daddy outside in anyway she can, and Little Boy is always eager to chase off "bad cats" or play tag with the chickens in his own little 4-year-old version of helping. ;)

Seeing my kids partake so joyfully in this homesteading lifestyle makes my heart happy. So very, very blessed am I.