Rain is streaking my window, and I love it. Spring finally graced the Midwest with its presence this week and the burst of fresh air tinted in green sprouts and melting snow as it gurgles in little creeks out in the pasture makes me ready for new things and fresh starts. 

The farm is teeming with lambs and pretty soon hundreds of fluffy chicks are going to arrive at the post office. We've been boarding a sweet little filly at our place and watching her goof off with my other horses was the highlight of my morning. Besides that, this summer is gearing up to be crazy. Along with the usual farm work and haying season, I'll be juggling two jobs (actually...make that three. Thankfully two are seasonal) and trying to keep up with all the fun on weekends. 

I've also been exploring ways to expand on my writing a little. Monetizing an art form is never easy. :/

BUT GUESS WHAT?!?!

Upon request (thank you for your comments! It seriously means to world that you still enjoy reading my posts, despite my long absence) I have compiled a list of my favorite podcasts, from theology to politics, to writing and life hacks. 

Disclaimer! I am recommending these because they have encouraged, inspired or entertained me, not necessarily because my beliefs align with those of the podcaster. As a general rule, I will only recommend content that I respect and consider appropriate for any range of listeners. 

Now on with the show!

I work part-time for a little coffeehouse. Days spill over with the toasty smells of coffee beans, learning the differences between a latte and a Capaccino, doing my best to memorize all the "regulars", and watching from behind the bar while the latest news flits around a table, connections spark, and even a few tears are cried. 

The American coffee shop has become something of an icon...or maybe a stereotype to play off of in a hundred different ways. Where I work, we serve more than coffee. Experiences come free. 

Here in the Midwest, winter is special. Cold bites any available skin the moment you step outside and snow piles higher than the fences (thankfully all of our animals know to stay where they will be fed...). 

I'm doing my best to appreciate this winter wonderland, but for the days when I forget what sunshine looks like, I fall back on a cozy winter afternoon standby.  

If people are upset because you've forgotten something, console them by letting them know you didn't forget - you just weren't remembering.
-Winnie the Pooh

I could go into a lengthy description of my forgetfulness...my procrastination, lack of organization, dreadful time-management etc. But one of my many thoughts for the new year is that it's time for me to stop chattering about my shortcomings. Not to sugar-coat them or act as if they aren't there - simply to think of them less. 

After all, who wants to hear a girl rant when there is so much beautiful life to be lived?!