Mistress Mendy's Maxim: Six Month Update

It's been 6 months since we first made the decision to close the ranch and began selling off the horses. Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night, missing that old life. Most days, I'm very happy. It's not meant as a slight against anyone to say that, it's just that I prayed very hard about things over the last several months....even back further than July.....and I really am much happier today than I was six months ago......for certain.......and even a year, two years, and longer. Significant changes and accomplishments below:

The only livestock left now are horses, the pony, and Harry Llama. We found homes for the sheep last month...they are doing great.....and it's amazing just to worry about our own stock. We're looking to a fun spring and summer of just riding for our own amusement and enjoyment.
Though our winter is not over yet, Oreo is holding his weight this year. Since his diagnosis of diabetes nearly 4 yrs ago, we've battled ups and downs with his weight. He seems to have stabilized with a new grain and careful management of his exercise. He's doing fabulous and our worries of him are lessening day after day.
The house is coming along nicely. It's only a rental but with free rein to fix it up as we see fit, it's feeling more and more like our home and less like a crash pad. The master suite is well under way, with only one more room left to paint. We hit Pier 1 Imports the other night to check out some home decor. I might need a 2nd job to pay for all the wicked cool stuff I found. Also, my Christmas fish tank is finally up. It's got a sucker fish, 2 fire platys and these awesome guys, balloon mollies. It's also close to gardening time. We're all excited about working on the patio and garden.
Work is great.......for the most part. I am not going to complain about the little drama that's been going on, this weekend may have leveled some of it out. I know that pulling a night shift is not my gig. The overtime is going to be sweet and I will jump right in to help again if duty calls, but I am in no way cut out for the graveyard shift!! As far as my "regular duties", I love my role as therapist. I have the best job....not only on our unit....but probably in the hospital. I know that because I go to work someone's day is better. My mere existence makes other people feel better, smile and laugh. This is rewarding, fulfilling, and I normally wake up every day happy to go to work. There have been a few challenging days recently but what job does not have some challenges.
Harley did it!!!! Yellow Dog is a certified therapy dog. He will start work as soon as his documentation and paperwork is in order. He loves to work. He enjoys spending time with people who need love and support. I am totally excited about how he may bring positive energy to work.
PC is crazy busy with work and school. I don't see her very often anymore between my work schedule and her school/work schedule. It stinks.
Little Bit is continuing to thrive in school. She's got a new crew of friends, is active in FFA and Choir, and grades are at the top of the class. She also has very strong thoughts about a college. We cannot be more thrilled. Hopefully, the college can come up with the scholarships they anticipate offering. She's also running for Miss Teen of Missouri again this year, by invitation.
Mr. P is happy with his new job. It was touch and go for awhile. Change is hard; even when you are the one in control of it.
My books are well on the way to being published. This is exciting for me and a long term labor of love. If they sell well, things may really look up for us in the future.

I suppose that's where we are at this point..........realizing that changes was good for us, no matter how hard it's been. It's been hard; but we are all happy.......ready for the next 6 months and the fun we hope to have.