gardening things

We spent time outside over the last weekend, working in our gardens. We spent most of the day on Saturday, getting the blueberry plants in the ground. I also did another round of planting seeds in my raised beds, putting in carrots, green onions, and Swiss chard. I also cleaned all the weeds out of the raspberry patches so Brad could lay down some leaf mulch. 











We also moved our little chicks out to the chicken yard Monday night. They seem to like their little chicken mansion that my handy hubby decked out for them. Snickers (the rooster) is hilarious! He knew something was up the moment he heard the first little chick chirp and he was down off the roosting bar that is in the big coop and came flying back to the little chick house to see what was going on. He kept pacing around the cage, voicing his annoyance that we would permit something in the yard without first getting his permission. He definitely thinks he's in charge. He's made me laugh more than once, that's for sure! Roosters are definitely entertaining!










Brad and I walked around the perimeter of our property early yesterday morning before he had to leave for work, just breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the sunshine. I was reminded again of how thankful I am that I live out in the open spaces of the country. We spent the previous day in Pittsburgh for one of Ian's neurology appointments. Most of the time was spent at Children's Hospital, but we hit the local Whole Foods and Starbucks up as well before heading home. But, boy oh boy, was I ready to head home when the day was ended! The city is just too congested, too suffocating for me! I've always lived in the country so I'm so used to lots and lots of green and fresh air and big yards. 







Ian's appointment went really good. This appointment was with a new neurologist. We made the decision to stop seeing his old neurologist because the doctor and her nurse were so negligent in returning phone calls (among other things.) In like, there were times that I called that they never even called me back. Plus, the doctor was slightly rude to me when I refused to put Ian on an anti-seizure med back in 2011. I just had not been happy with her at all. But this new neurologist is absolutely amazing. He was so kind and compassionate, speaking not only to me but also to Ian. He took his time; never made me feel like I had to rush. I'm just so thankful to God for providing us with such a wonderful doctor. We will continue to follow up with him every six months, and Ian will also follow-up with the neurosurgeon every 18 months for MRI's, with his next one due in about 6 months from now. 

We're in the early stages of a new diagnosis for Ian. But I really hate to use the word "diagnosis." It makes it seem like there's something wrong with him. But I'm feeling so much more at peace with this doctor, and I feel like we're heading in the right direction.

We would also appreciate prayers for some major issues we're having with our older adopted son, Sergei. We're at a crossroads, waiting for God to show us where to go from here. We need prayers for steadfastness, perseverance, and direction.

Today is another gorgeous day in Western PA! After our school lessons this morning, the kids and I will be heading to my acupuncturist appointment. I can't wait for them to see me all decked out in the needles, and only because I totally feel like a catfish when she puts the needles in my face. I have whiskers, and it always makes me laugh! This is the first time the kids will be with me, and I think that they'll have a good ole' laugh on account of their mama and her whiskers!

Have a blessed day!