A few questions (: Options

[wings]

Hurray, it's finally here!
And so are the overflows of questions. (:

Welllll, I've just got a few things on my mind,
most of which is probably just common sense failing me. D;

First, how do I get to the hot spring? That darn root is in my way, and I haven't found another way around it.
Second, does anyone know if as the game goes on, the main character will become stronger? As in, simple things like pulling weeds won't suck down her stamina quite so much? It's really rather annoying.
Third, just out of curiosity and an attempt to salvage stamina, how many chops does it take to cut down a tree with the axe you receive from Luke? And how many pieces of lumber do you get from it? Same questions for stones, if you don't mind. (:
Fourth, is there a time limit on the resurrection of the Mother Tree? Like, if I don't make all the rainbows by a certain time, the game will end?
And fifth, is the game/strategy guide book worth purchase? It's been calling to me from the shelves..

Thanks a bunch to anyone who helps. (: