Another year, another birthday

There's something about the passing of another year. With the nation's economy in a deep free fall, there hopefully will be "one more year, another year wiser". I don't know if it really means "smarter" or not, but I do know that it means paying closer attention, choosing the battles more carefully, and living wiser.
Other than the mortgage and car payment, debts will be zero month to month. I do enjoy the privilege and convenience of credit card purchases. As long as I pay them off before interest accrues, I feel comfortable managing them.
The garden is expanding to continue to provide some relief on the food budget. I learned a lot about growing food and storing it for Winter last year. While there was not that much put up, the experience will be very helpful for the future. Lots of fruits and permanent crops are being added this year to continue the plan toward greater sustainability
Adding in chickens and a few rabbits will also be a help. The chickens will be providing lots of eggs and between them and the rabbits, both garbage disposal and compost building will be greatly improved. There may even be surpluses available for sales and barter once everything is finalized.
All in all, the coming year is looking good and build upon the goals I have laid out - chiefly to have great sustainability and self sufficiency now and in the future.