The end of the year is traditionally time for evaluation of the past year and forming plans for the New Year. 2014 has been an extraordinary one. Having been in our home for thirty-seven years, we had to replace some basic infrastructure. First, the bridge on lane leading to the farmhouse washed out during the rain and snowmelt. More burdensome, our septic system, which was three years old when we moved end, malfunctioned.
When we investigated replacing the system, we learned about the BAT laws. Best Available Technology meant that we had to install a nitrogen reducing system with an electric motor, pumps, and a vault as big as a small house. All the required digging left our yard a muddy bog. However, we did receive a grant from the much-derided flush tax to pay for the HOOT; that is the name of the system. Once spring comes and new grass grows, all evidence of the ordeal will disappear.
Another big event this year was self-publishing on Kindle and Amazon. On one hand, I checked a major item off my bucket list. On the other hand, I resurrected the battle with my archenemy dyslexia, and with that came all the tension and paranoia I thought that I had put behind me. My husband helped with the proof reading, and I appreciate his efforts. But, as any spouse knows, fault finding is hard on the relationship. If I ever decide to write a sequel I will hire a professional.