Hard to believe my first (of 3) daughter turned 39 yesterday. She was conceived in Pomona, California, born in Frankfort, Indiana. We moved back "home" (for me, anyway) over the summer.
While I enjoyed my 7 years in California (teaching), I was sick of (and sick from) the smog (really bad back then). I had heard on the news that an autopsy was to be performed on an unidentified person to determine how long she had lived in Southern Calif.
How could they tell? By how "black" her lungs were from inhaling smog--the blacker the longer!
I thought, my child's first of many breaths will be filled with polluted air. And what about MY lungs? Ugh. So, we decided to get out.
I was lucky to get a job in my home town. And fresh air!
So yes, I've been here for 39 years, and in my current house for 35 of them.
Since I inherited the farm land, it's a good thing I'm close by. When I look back over my life's major decisions, moving back was the smartest thing I ever did. No regrets.

Speaking of the farm, Nate and Emily (my 3rd oldest) have completed the 2012 market season as of Saturday. Now they can concentrate on making the big move to the farm where they'll set up operations. We are all very excited.

As a sideline, on their way back from Michigan last weekend (to pick up a humongous wood burner), they stopped at Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve (on my suggestion) to do a tour. Emily said Nate asked all sorts of questions regarding raising buffalo!!! He's thinking of his ol' father in law! Perhaps my dream will, at long last, come to fruition! Now that's reason to be excited--and to live to 100!!

Have a good week.