Fire on the Porch

Everyday as I wash the dishes, I see smoke on the porch. For a split second, I am alarmed. It's not smoke. Our puppies are curled up on a pillow there on the porch sleeping. It's the heat of their breath rising. It is so cold that their breath rises about 5 feet before it dissipates and is gone.

Our washer drain froze yesterday. I had to move the washer (while full of water!) next to the fire and let it melt for a long time.

Today our bathtub didn't drain- we had to thaw it with the space heater.

Have I mentioned it's cold here? The Mongolian news says this is the coldest winter in 30 years! It has been -40 to -60 for about 4 weeks. Sad.

That is why we are heading to Thailand in 16.25 days, not that I'm counting. I am so excited. The anticipation of a vacation in a warm place and fresh food, is really more fun than I can explain.

When I find a frozen drain, or I am struggling to dress my kids in 3-4 layers, or my toes are cold, I just think, "In ___ days, I'll be in Thailand." It is part of my sanity to know that I am going to have a rest soon.

We are going to a conference about homeschooling. The children are going to VBS! We are staying at a place that provides all our meals and laundry. They return the clothes clean, ironed and folded at the end of each day! :) *happy sigh*