Typical Winter Day

The hambone is in the large pot and will simmer all day. After I remove the bone, the broth will be put outside overnight. Tomorrow the morning I'll skim off the fat layer that came to the top. Then I'll put the dried split peas and chopped onions in and simmer them until they have all completely turned to mush. Salt and pepper will be added. It is a time consuming, but not laborious project and always a wonderful and tasty treat for us. Two and one half quarts of delicious soup!

While this is happening indoors, the Mister is completing the driveway blow out with his new machine that was used only once last year.  A nearby neighbor with his truck-plow has generously opened the drive at the roadside. The neighbor's wife even asked if we needed anything from town as she was making a trip in. How nice is is to be thought of in these ways.

The reflection of the storm window annoys me!

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Sad news...We just got word that our wonderful vet, Doctor Joe has died. He is so loved by the entire community as he was an extremely caring and nice man. He took care of our pets, both large and small for over 25 years! 

"In 1962, Dr. Joseph C. Crowley graduated from Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine and returned to his hometown to practice. He began a career based on the principles of hard work, empathy and respect for pet owners and their animals, and honest, dependable service."