My small brain has been racing all day about what to write. Once again, it is time to write our column. I just could not believe it until I saw LaDonna's e-mail. I know time really does fly whether you are having fun or not. Every idea I would think about just did not seem to work. You see, I usually come up with the main idea and Keith fills in details or humor. The column really is joint effort between the both of us. Sometimes hard to complete with his travel schedule and his computer being with him. But alas that problem is solved as we got a desk top for Christmas. When we write, our goal is to try to write something people will want to read, informative, but interesting and funny too. Every idea I would think about just didn't seem to work or we already written about the subject. Hence the title, random thoughts.

Resolutions-Yuck, who wants to think about them much less write about them. No one ever keeps them and for  me they were a source of frustration. Plus everybody writes about the in January, so toss that idea.

Technology- Yes, it is great, but for me also a source of frustration. I really do not live in this century in this area. My 8 year old is more advanced in computers than I am. He recently had to help me with my photo order at Wal-Mart. E-mails is also another area which drives me crazy. I would rather pick up the phone and have a conversation instead of writing back and forth. To impersonal for me. Besides you do not always know someone's tone when you read a message. Plus we do not always check ours in a timely manner. For example, if you place an order to pick something up from us on a particular day. If we don't check our e-mail in time then we are unaware you want to purchase something on that given day. However, while running all these scenarios in my head , I did come to the conclusion technology really is wonderful thing. It allows Keith to work at home versus being at corporate in Tampa, Fl.   He's able to have conference calls versus driving there for meetings. We are able to e-mail our column to LaDonna and I just love spell check. Excel is a wonderful tool. Our kids love playing with their Webkinzs they got for Christmas. Plus, I do appreciate the internet. I'd prefer to live in another century, but I live in this one. Therefore, I must adapt and come to view technology as my friend.

Farming- Well not much to report in this area. January is a very slow and restful farming month for us. A slow income month too. However, expenses remain the same.  Several of our Farmer's Markets are seasonal , so I do get to sleep in on Saturday. A joy that I do relish. We have a small garden, but not enough to preserve. The unseasonal early freezes we had took most of our lettuce and stunted the growth of brussel sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower. However, we are enjoying fresh collards and kale. We even had fresh cabbage tonight. Boy, I sure could go for some fresh tomatoes right now.  Food really is best when you are able to produce it yourself.

Weather- I was thinking about this winter and it seems like we have had a lot of grey days. I made the comment to Keith and he reminded me we need those days for rain. Rain, ahhh, a precious resource. Something we can truly appreciate here on the farm. Our fall and winter rains helps replenish water tables, etc.** So, the next time you mutter about oh no not another rainy day, just think about the farmer and how the rain not only helps his family , but yours too.

Reminders- Life is good. That's really what this column does for us. It makes us stop think and reflect and remember what is good about our life. Yes, we have responsibilities, problems, trials and bills to pay. But, we have a wonderful life too. We are so blessed and thankful for all we have.