Wow! Writing 2015 on correspondence is taking some getting used to. It does not seem like it has been that many years since we celebrated the arrival of a new century. As we reflect on one year and look forward to the next I hope you are reaching some of your lifelong ambitions. Working as an Extension agent allows me to continue learning through in-service trainings scattered throughout the year. Another opportunity I am excited about is the study leave I will be taking from January 8th through the 23rd. For two weeks I will be working away from the office to complete another fact sheet and leader’s guide for K-State Research and Extension.  
The fact sheet I am writing focuses on a favorite topic of mine; nutrition. My goal is to help families see the benefits of eating more seasonally. Research shows that building your diet around foods that are in season can add nutrients and flavor to your dinner plate. The color, texture, and flavor of food that is in season will surely nudge you toward a healthier diet. Plus, there is an added benefit of lower cost food when it is purchased in season.
Another project I will complete while I am on study leave is to present the nutrition segment at a Regional Farm to School workshop in Hutchinson. For 20 plus years we have been involved in the Kid’s Ag Day program targeting 4th graders here in Barton County. I was able to collaborate with agents and specialists from across the state and we have put together a presentation that will share some of the successes of our local farm to school activities.
So I will be taking a week off from writing my Sunday column but you can be assured when I get back to the office 2015 programs and learning opportunities for you will be in full swing. Here’s hoping your year is off to a great start. Take some time to reflect on the year just completed and look forward to learning something new in the months ahead.
Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Barton County. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu