Thankful for the past year

Reflecting on the past year, I once again realized how lucky I am to have the family, friends, and neighbors we have.

Of course, in September, Sarah was born. A healthy baby girl to complete our family.

A while back my truck broke down and last week I desperately needed hay. Friends of ours had their truck loaded with their hay and ready for me in no time. I just asked and it was done as if this was the most normal thing to ask for. Compensation never came up.

After my horse passed away this weekend a hired hand showed up to retrieve her body from the field. But due to the snow the truck couldn't make it down the slope. My neighbor pulled up in his tractor and did it for me. I never had to ask, he was just there.

This year we were invited for Christmas diner with good friends as we have been for the past years. Clearly, much effort went into their preparations. All we had to do was show up (which still took well over an hour with Thing One and Thing Two). We exchanged gifts, nothing over the top, just right. Very pleasant and warm.

We're all in good health. I have been able to provide for my family as my wife is a full-time mom.

It's been a good year.