Sarah in Illinois is here today with her final post for 2016. Thanks for being part of the blog for the past year, Sarah. I’ve enjoyed the peak you’ve shared into your life in Illinois.
The year is winding down and since this is my last post until the new year, I thought I would take a minute to thank Julia for letting me guest post and share a little of my rural living. I have really enjoyed being a part of her blog and I am excited to continue on in 2017.
This past year has felt like there were many detours and setbacks. In fact, most of the year I felt like I was changing plans, adjusting to a new normal or just trying to keep some sense of order to what was going on around here.
“You can’t plan life. Because no matter how perfect your plan is, life has a way to rearrange it.” — Mina Deanna
There were definitely some things that went according to (my) plan, like getting chickens and adding Blitz to our family. But it felt, more often than not, we were paddling against a raging river.
So instead of sitting around being grouchy about failed plans, I am going to focus on good things in my life.
I am thankful that our family is healthy and we have a warm house to live in and food for our bellies.
I am thankful for family gatherings like the one we had today where I got to spend time with my 91 year old grandmother.
I am thankful that my family has an annual tradition of collecting and donating baby clothes to families that need them.
I am thankful for my close group of girlfriends who are there for me, always.
I am thankful for the treats that a neighbor left on our doorstep today that remind me that I live in a wonderful neighborhood.
I am thankful that Steve and I have jobs that allow us to buy the things we need. And even some things that we don’t need.
No, this year did not go as planned, but I am thankful that each day is a new day to try again.
Thank you to everyone that read my posts this year and followed along with me. I’ll be back in January to start a new year with new plans!
Thanks for the reminder to focus on the good, Sarah. Merry Christmas to you, Steve, Blitz, the chickens and all the rest of your family.
Home on 129 Acres 
Merry Christmas and/or happy holidays, Sarah!! It seems 2016 has been a difficult year for a lot of people. Funny how the pendulum seems to swing some years. I’m glad you’re able to focus on the good in your life. Regardless of where you are, that point of view will help you get to where you want to be.
Blitz has grown so much! He looks big and healthy and happy. I hope you have a wonderful holiday, and that 2017 is filled with happiness and dreams come true for you and your family. 🙂
Well, thank you so much! And Merry Christmas to you and your family too.
Blitz is a whopping 41 pounds now. We went to the vet this week for his final puppy shots and the vet said he looking really good. He is such a good boy!