It's the new year and I haven't had a chance to rest. During this week off, I have hunted, shopped, cleaned, visited, celebrated, cooked, repaired and created. Not much time there for rest and relaxation...well except during the hunting.
We started off the holiday week with a visit from Jennifer's Grandma, Cora. We had a great visit before she went on the Albuquerque. She celebrated Christmas with us which was truly a blessing. I know Jennifer really enjoyed having her here.
The weekend after Christmas, I went hunting in Groesbeck with Benton; great time. As always we had long conversations about strategy and tactics. His wife, Holly, even saw what we think was a cougar. Benton called Texas Parks and Wildlife to report the sighting and they did not seem surprised. The most exciting point for me was a 14 yard head shot on a squirrel with my bow. It was a shot to be proud of; at least is was for me!
The remainder of the hunting has taken place at Lake Bardwell as Koby and I chased ducks. I haven't really duck hunted in about 6 years, but it seemed to come back. Maybe my calling was a little weak...OK it was really weak. But that did not stop a few from decoying. Nathan went with me one morning. As usual, I had to constantly remind him that if he was up moving around the ducks would see him. It is hard to convince an 11 year old that the ducks can see him before he sees them. Anyway, after it was all over, which soon was due to cold toes, he mentioned to me that he had fun...it was worth it! I have one more outing planned, maybe two, maybe we can repeat the experience.
Several months ago, Jennifer had the kitchen floor tiled. When I got home, I thought it looked great. The I noticed that the base trim was not re-installed. "When are they coming back out to install the base trim, Honey?" "Oh, they're not. I told them you could do a better job and I wanted new trim anyway." SO...I started the project. I got most of the way through the kitchen except behind the refrig. And, I can't lie. It took several attempts at coping the trim at the bay window. I never really did get it right, but it's close enough that a little painter's caulk will make everything alright. After I finish the kitchen, I'll still have the laundry and the half bath to go. Hopefully, I'll finish before Monday.
As usual, I cooked my mashed potatoes for Christmas. They really aren't that special, but people seem to like them, so I do it every year. Butter, pepper, sour cream, oh my!
My last project during the break, is to make some background boards for Jennifer's mosaics. She has promised several to people over the last few months and I am the hold up. Yesterday, we outlined what shapes she wanted and the sizes. I think after I get the kitchen trimmed, I'll work on the mosaic bases.
Kinda scattered, but that has been my life lately. I believe that in spite of the hectic nature of things, I am doing better at getting it all in order. I am continuing to organize my time better and focus on balance. It will continue to be a challenge and it in one I must accept. Maybe that will be my New Year's resolution...
