I know it’s been forever since I’ve posted, and I apologize. I am still trying to find my groove with working, renovating (sort of) and keeping up with everything I used to do.

We had a nice long break from school over the Thanksgiving holiday due to so much illness in the schools. I didn’t get the bad stomach bug, just some minor stuff and a few terrible headaches.

I got some things done on the house, which is what I really wanted to do. I made progress on the guest bedroom. We also finally moved out of the living room into the bedroom and I’m getting some much needed rest. The living room was too light and too loud. Now I can sleep in on my days off. (I wish).

I’m happy with the way things are looking. My many plans are finally starting to take shape. It took me forever to find the paint color for the guest room, and I’m not sure it’s the exact shade I wanted, but it’s close enough for now.

We have been up to the mountain property a few times in the past month, but we don’t stay for any length of time. It feels deserted and forlorn. We have tossed around the idea of not coming back. I feel guilty for even admitting that. We worked so hard and dreamed so big, only to give up when it got so hard.

I am very happy to not have to be there this winter. The road and the mud would be impossible with my new job. Thinking back over last winter when I had to get the laundry loaded up and drive out before the road would thaw, only to come back to the mess later in the day.

We had to plan out our water, and the propane delivery times. Hoping he could get in and out without tearing up the road completely. No, I don’t miss that. What I do miss is the dream and the determination we had to make it work.

We haven’t given up completely. We are now talking about this being our retirement home. It would be a good one, since we wouldn’t have utility bills and we could grow our own food. Our home would take care of us instead of vice versa. I guess the dream is still alive, somewhere buried underneath my contentment to have a full-sized kitchen. A laundry room, more than one bedroom, a real bathroom with a huge tub.

Here is the real kicker, my grandkids told me the other day that they love coming to my house. They didn’t come out to the camper very much. The real world has dragged me back down into the pail and I’ve let it.

I hope we can reignite the fire we had for that adventure.

Christmas is a time to reflect though and I am so very thankful for the life I’ve been given. I love my job, even though it has many challenges. I love my new house and the neighbors are so friendly. Most of all I love my family, and the gift I’ve been given of being closer to them. Sometimes dreams die, but sometimes they just fade until the time is right.

Merry Christmas my friends. I pray your lives and loved ones are blessed this holiday season. Hold them close and be thankful for each one of them.

Peace, Vickie