Going into 2006, I had my doubts it would be a good year. We ended 2005 with a huge grass fire that nearly wiped out my whole ranch (but thankfully, and amazingly, spared my home). And we went from October 2005 to June 2006 with less than an inch of rain or snow.

But then we got enough rain to plow. Then enough to plant. Then enough for our crops to grow. And cut. And baled. And SOLD! It's been a good year for the farm. And as for the ranch, we only lost one calf all year (still born, we had to c-section. I wish vets delivered humans, it was just a couple hundred bucks! LOL!). We got a tractor paid off, paid off all the credit cards, and have almost all new fence on our ranch (after 70+ years, the old barb wire fence was going to need replacing soon. The fire wasn't all that bad for that!)

As for my family, they are growing and changing and learning in leaps and bounds. DD9 is TALL--4'10" and finally learned to jump off the diving board. DD7 is really coming along learning guitar. DS4 finally started talking coherently. And DS1 went from a newborn infant to a walking and climbing toddler. In fact, he is the most bittersweet part of the year. The fact that I'm not going to have anymore children (planned ones, anyway. LOL!) has upset me and I'm trying to enjoy everything he does that much more.

We hope 2007 will bring some new things around the farm. Like finally building DH his big shop/barn. And me remodeling some in my house (turning the garage into a music/family room and finally redoing my 1960 kitchen). And of course, the usual trying to stay more organized, pay off more stuff, pray for a good crop, health, cleanliness, etc. I would really like to find the time to focus on my small sewing business venture (baby items) and scrapbooking. Ride my horses (that depends on DH watching the baby). Have a successful garden.

I hope all of you have a safe New Year!! Go Vols! (LOL! Tennessee vs. Penn State tomorrow).