Snow, A Wood Cookstove, And We're Snug As A Bug.....

We're still here, the snowflakes are falling, the new/used wood cook stove is working out wonderfully, and we're "snug as a bug in a rug".  And I can't tell you how happy we are to be heating with wood and with not having a heating bill.  Several months ago we were blessed with a beautiful wood stove which was being sold by a local Amish family.  Because it provided too much heat for their home, the price was incredible and now we're learning to cook and bake with wood and realizing that we have lots to learn and that the learning is lots of fun.

And friends and family, I can't believe it's been such a long time since we last posted, and I so appreciate the kind emails received asking how we're doing.

Like most, we've had an extra cold winter, and today we're watching it snow and staying near the wood cook stove in order to stay snug and warm.  We former Alabamians are still in awe at the site of snow, and the younger kiddos are anxious to get out and play before all the white wonder disappears.:)

We also had a new momma cat give birth to kittens this week and she and her babies have settled on a warm spot by the toasty fire.  And of all days, a baby jersey heifer was born today, and we are so excited!  Since her momma just arrived from Georgia, we figured she might not be to used to the cold either.  But she and baby are NOT joining us by the fire.  They've been given a warm spot in the barn.:)

With winter being a time for catching up on projects not easily done during the busyness of spring, summer and fall, we've been busy as bees around here and can't believe spring is just around the corner.  Many projects have been completed and there always seem to be more to be done on this pretty old homestead.  We are thankful for the work opportunities, thankful to be here, and hope to post about some of the frugal projects done during these past five or so months.

And while on the subject of work and being busy, as I know we all are, I was reminded these past months, and especially during this mornings devotion time of how when there are to many things to do, I must not follow mans natural response which is to fret and fear. According to Elisabeth Elliot, "The plan of God for me, for this one day, is meant not to trouble but to GLADDEN my heart.  Christ's yoke, according to His own promise, is not hard but easy--if we bear it together with Him and if we bear it as Christ bore it, in meekness and lowliness of heart."

And, "There will be both time and strength to do the will of God.  The course He sets for us in His commandments is not an obstacle course, but one carefully planned to suit our qualifications -- that is, not too rigorous for our limitations, not too lenient for our strengths".  --  Elisabeth Elliot

I don't know about you, but those words greatly encourage my heart.  And remind me to always be seeking His face and His will for the day.  And to pray.  And that's always a good thing to do!

Other happenings since our last post include the birth of many piglets here on Leegacy Family Farm, and they are growing nicely!  Johnathon's momma pig also had a nice big family of nine piglets which have been sold. and there's also a couple of adorable twin lambs in the pasture:)

Boy, it's cold out there!

And the farm chicks started laying again in January.  Yay!!  And I suppose that's the end of this update.  I do hope you are all well and warm, and I've very much missed you all.  Blessings,  Sherry for the family