This is a very special time of the year at Sandhill Farm. The busy harvest season is past, we are keeping occupied with seasonal and indoor tasks, and it is definitely quieter with fewer folks here. It is really nice for all of us to be able to sit down together at meals at the kitchen or dining room table. We value being more like an extended family than many communities and this is the time for us to enjoy that feeling to its fullest.

It has also been good to have everyone home from their lengthy travels after sorghum season. We have been catching up on everyone's stories of their travels and adventures. One of the nice features of our community meetings is that we make time for everyone to check in and update us on what has happened while they are away or how things are going for them currently.

We have a additional "member" in our community now. Renay's new puppy, Cole, joined our circle a couple of weeks ago. He is a very perky Jack Russell terrier/beagle cross and we are all enjoying getting to know him. The cats seem to be making their peace with him. Lee and Max Bob have actually been hanging out with Cole.

We have also been enjoying spending the holidays with our friends. We had the Rabbits over for a celebration on the 21st. Michael, Laird, Gigi and I did some of the cooking and the folks from Dancing Rabbit brought some lovely dishes and homemade bread. Renay's dad French also joined us for supper. There was skating on the "new" pond, socializing before supper, and a sharing circle after the meal. That day was also mine and Michael's fourteenth wedding anniversary, which made it even more special.

Our St. Louis friend Matthew arrived on December 24 for a holiday visit. He was a resident of Sandhill for several months a few years ago and we always enjoy having him here. The last time he was on the farm was during sorghum season. He hopes to be with us for about ten days.

Susie left on December 21 to spend the Christmas holiday with her family in Chicago. She plans to spend time in Madison, Wisconsin with friends and a cousin who recently moved there before coming back to Sandhill Farm on January 3.

Stan did a two day inspection trip to Kansas on December 23 and 24. This time of the year he works with organic processors rather than farmers. He also visited our friend Everett in Kansas City while he was on the road.

Laird left for Kansas City this morning (Sunday) with Cecil from Dancing Rabbit. They are both going to play in a four day bridge tournament there. This is a chance for them to earn some of the coveted "gold points". They will be staying with Everett while they are there. Laird will then be going down to Columbia to visit with Ceilee and Ann, who is on a holiday visit from her home in Virginia.

We want to wish all our friends and neighbors the very best for the New Year. I look forward to visiting with all of you some more during the coming months.