2016 word of the year

2015 was a whirlwind of selling, packing, moving - repeatedly packing and moving. Hurry up and wait seemed to be what we did a lot. Now that we are moved and mostly settled I want to focus on a new word for 2016.

Slow

I want to do a lot of things slowly this year. I want to eat slowly and enjoy my food. Slow down and listen to my kids even when they seem to go on forever. Take our time going places, and enjoy the slow pace my younger two give me when we are out and about. Slow down and cuddle with my husband and kids. Slow down and think about what really needs to be done *right now* and what is just fluff that can wait. 

Sure, sometimes we will need to pick up the pace and get somewhere or get something done. But my focus in 2016 is to slow down and be more mindful. So my word for the year is slow. Do you have a word of the year or a focus you will bring for 2016?

It's just "temporary"

We brought our chickens home in late October, and - against my better judgement - went ahead and used our previous run. "Temporarily" of course. Just until we get the new run up!  

Well, it is December 7th and the ladies have turned everything that was once green into a lovely shade of brown. They are also restless and tired of their 18'x6' accommodations. Unfortunately we do not feel safe free ranging them here for a couple reasons. First, there aren't any trees near the run, and I feel like they would be huge prey to the many predators. Second, I have seen several stray cats and dogs around. My neighbors dog also is incredibly smart and climbs his fence. I don't know if he would hurt the chickens but I'm not willing to take that chance. 

So, what is a crazy chicken momma to do?  Install yet another "temporary" thing, obviously!  I was desperate the other day and used garden fabric and clamps. It worked okay for that day, but wasn't something I could use often. 

Saturday I ran to Lowe's and picked up 100' of lovely construction fencing and 4 t-posts. Voila!  Instant run!  It is not predator proof, and I will only let them out when I am right there, but the ladies sure were happy with their extended buffet!!

Of course, this is only temporary... 😉