Happy New Year!

  There's so much hype about moving into 2021 and bounding out of 2020. I get that! Our business has struggled also. I have teenagers who are not able to have a normal social life, etc. My 15 year old will be 16 before she can even get her driver's permit due to the DMV waitlist! My boys have pacified themselves with perfecting rubber-band hunting (of their sisters!), trying to snare turkeys, or other random and boyish projects. Lately, they've learned to tan hides which delights me to no end! But wait - is this suppose to be a list of the downsides? 
 OK, so reevaluating. The wool business has struggled, but I've had more time with my kids and enjoyed them more (as long as I can get off of marketing on the computer.) They have been able really dig into some deep personal interests like learning to paint with acrylics and oils or helping with construction projects in a more meaningful way. Peter is doing so, so, so much better in reading - a used-to-be-sore subject here indeed! We preemptively are pursuing some serious education in alternative health treatments to get an early start on careers. My eldest has taken on some serious sourdough duties - not one person here complains! John David was able to get his first deer this year, and Elizabeth and I have found some undiscovered common interests that have been delightful! 2020 was not perfect, but it was in many ways such a great respite and vacation from the "businesses" that we often think are so important. In fact - it was a "great reset" for  us!!!
This coming 2021, whatever it may bring, I believe can be used to continue to strengthen the most important things. I love my family. We are thoroughly enjoying our new Orthodox traditions and the deep meaning and love and renewal that we find in them. Honestly, 2020 was perfect timing for endless seas of growth and learning more about love and what is important. You know, in the presence of these feelings, I am reassured that there are many reasons to be looking forward to the great 2021!