August at a glance

Yes, I am alive and ta da! posting again. I am sorry to those that I have failed to do this more regularly. I decided over the next couple of days that I shall update you all about life in the sandhills and all of the mischief I've been up to. :) Last time I let you know what I did in July, so this is my tale about August.

I was able to go back to Lincoln for the weekend during the end of July/beginning of August to take care of business, check in with professors, and see friends and church family. I even had the opportunity to play guitar and sing on our church's worship team. I know...I'm a bit over zealous, but it was some much needed fellowship and spiritual filling up of my spirit! I ended up house/dog sitting for the people who are watching Bella for me this summer/fall and she could not believe that I was actually there! I miss her dearly.

The month plugged along with continuing to feed my cattle daily, collection periods, and the beginning of school. Most of the schools in the midwest begin classes at the end of August. I am enrolled in one class, Feedlot Nutrition and Management. Since I am still at the ranch, we decided to try to use Skype for me to 'attend' class. It sort of worked. Unfortunately, the connection did not work well or consistently. This has become very disheartening in trying to learn material, hear and see what is going on in class. Thankfully my professors and AMAZING TA have been very helpful, supportive, and lenient in me getting work to them.

All of the other graduate students and undergraduate worker have gone back to Lincoln for school. It became very quiet after they all vacated the dorm. It wasn't too bad. I have realized that I am a social person, loving to be with people, interact, and mentor them. Yet, I also like peace, quiet, and my own personal space. I'm definitely learning and have a better understanding/grasp of the balance of what it takes for me to be sane, healthy, and happy. :)

There is a ranch practicum class that I am attending through the university extension services. It primarily meets at the ranch (major convenience for me) and have been studying plant ID in the sandhills prepping for an upcoming exam in September. Fun fun...walking around on hills carrying my notes on a clipboard and looking at plants. I think I have the 20 or so that we are supposed to learn down fairly well. We shall see how the test goes. FYI..there are over 400 species in the sandhills alone! Thankfully I don't have to learn them all.

God continues to stretch me in all areas of my life. Relying and turning to Him first has been a biggie lately. Being in his word and keeping my focus and thoughts on Him is definitely a challenge being out here in this remote area. I am confident that He who began a good work in me, will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ's return! Learning from the past, God has used events and situations in my life to prepare me for the future and the people that come into my life. It's all part of the journey. Gotta make the most of it and look for the little blessings each day that He provides us to help us get from one day to the next.