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Good Morning and Happy New Year!
January 1st, 2025, has arrived, and with it, a crisp, quiet morning here in the country. The kind of morning where the snow glistens like diamonds in the first light of day, and the world feels untouched. The old wood-stove hums its comforting tune, and the smell of fresh-brewed coffee fills the air.
So, here we are on the first day of 2025, waking up to a fresh coating of snow. We got about 3 inches overnight, and it’s turned all the green grass into a nice blanket of white. I have to say, it sure looks good—snow hanging on the branches of the pines and resting on the bare limbs of the other trees.
It’s the kind of morning that gets you moving. A clean slate, a fresh start—makes you feel like doing something worthwhile. Whether it’s tidying up the shop, starting a new project, or just taking a walk to enjoy the quiet beauty of the countryside, it feels like a good way to kick off the new year.
On another note yesterday, I spent the day working away in my woodworking shop. That turned out to be a good thing—it helped take my mind off the not-so-good things. Over the years, and especially lately, I’ve come to realize just how strange the mind can be. Left unchecked, it has a way of turning things into a nightmare.
I got to thinking back to when I was a young lad. I remember an old feller telling me once, “George, we aren’t responsible for what enters our mind, but we sure are responsible for entertaining those thoughts.” That bit of wisdom has been rattling around in my head lately, and I’ve made up my mind to stop entertaining the not-so-good ones. Letting them go is easier said than done, though—damn hard, if I’m being honest.
Today—well, I suspect I’ll be heading out to my shop after breakfast. I lit the stove about an hour ago, so it should be nice and warm by the time I get out there. There’s something comforting about walking into the shop with the wood-stove humming along, taking the chill out of the air.
I’ve got a few projects waiting for me, and I figure keeping busy is the best way to spend the day. Nothing like the smell of sawdust and the feel of a well-worn tool in your hands to clear your mind and set things right.
The temperature this morning wasn’t all that cold, sitting at -0.9°C (30.38°F). It’s expected to warm up a bit as the day moves along, which is always a welcome sign this time of year.
Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning, so anyone heading out will need to take extra care. It might just be one of those days best spent at home, which is exactly what my wife and I plan on doing.
With that, I’m off to enjoy a bite to eat, prepared by my wife. Afterward, we’ll sit down together for a cup of hot cocoa and a nice chat. From there, we’ll see what the day has in store—aside from my plans, of course. You never know what might come up.
Well, that’s it for now. You all have a great day, and remember—sometimes the best moments come from the simplest things. Stay safe, stay warm, and take the time to enjoy the little bits of life that make each day special.
Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW