Reflections on 2009

Today is the end of this year and in less than 5 hours we will begin the new one. It's been a fairly good year for the most part. Some sadness in my father-in-law's passing and at my brother's passing shortly thereafter at the beginning of the year, but even this was followed by joy and gladness that they would have loved. We celebrate life in many ways. I met a new grandson this summer. Polux is the shining star of the family. Such a little guy, but always happy and laughing. I retired from 23 years as a Registered Nurse. My household menagerie grew to include over 2 dozen chickens, a duck and 2 more cats that we found orphaned in Tennessee. Our beagle (surprise, surprise) is expecting her 1st litter of pups by the male male pup mate she shares a pen with. We didn't even know he was old enough. Surprise of all surprises, he is!!! When you ask him if he's going to be a father, he actually bares his teeth and smiles! The beagle, beaglett as we call her, Maggie, is tiny. We're watching her closely. I suppose my nurse's training may come in handy again. :-( Our middle daughter is expecting her 3rd child, a daughter, after 2 boys who are ages 8 and 11. This darling granddaughter is due mid next April. It was a rough go getting her going as Sara was on bedrest for over a month in the beginning. She and baby Aimee are doing fine now and Aimee is growing by leaps and bounds. If you don't believe me, just look at her mamma's tummy! I 'm learning more and more about homesteading and loving every minute of it. We make our own soap now, I canned all of our summer garden veggies, helped dress a couple of roosters that went into the freezer, made a good part of our Christmas presents and am stocking the pantry. It's been a labor of love, but well worth every second of it. looking back on this past year, I remember all the friends from Utah and Kentucky who have given grace and peace to my life. How much of a blessing each and every one of them are! And, internet friends, 1 of whom I was blessed to meet this past summer, and all those whom I would love to meet, I say prayers of thanks for their contributions to my life as well. Workmates, dearest friends, church family, our family, all of you I wish a New Year of peace, love, health, happiness and prosperity for each of you.
Candy