Here it is January 2nd, 2000. A new era. May the new year be blessed for you and yours.

I like many others here prepared for possible problems relating to y2k. It was hedging a bet. One looked at the available evidence on both sides and acted accordingly. I applaude those that worked hard to keep the basic system infrastructure up and running.

What am I out? The cost of a hand pump for my well was the major outlay. Big deal--if the electric pump ever goes out, then I still have water as my hand pump is in line and fills the pressure tank.

I have a full pantry. Good.

Our power did go out on rollover night, for little more than an hour. It was a great laugh between Mrs. Peace Farmer and I. Here Gambia an all the other postage stamp nations report all systems green and we are in the dark.

Will there be other problems? Sure. Will they be manageable? I sure hope so. As long as the juice flows things should be manageable.

We did not return to the stone age (Thank God!)

Spikey Haired Mutants did not loot and pillage.

Martial Law was not declared.

We should be thankful that money was well spent in keeping things running. Although by the tone and tenor of some of the posts, there are some looking vainly for problems--insisting that somehow its a media conspiracy. Perhaps it is a wide and vast conspiracy to make all those who purchased four tons of spam to look foolish.

Yes, I know that there are still hurdles to pass regarding potential date/system problems. But crews around the world will be diligent in attempting to stamp out those fires.

I have to honestly admit that I was very surprised that the roll over brought nary a problem. Yeah, some doors failed to open or close, a few other reporting problems, but nothing anyone would really care about and certainly not the end of the world.

Its getting about that time to move on from y2k. Personally, I have a other things to do then worry about telecom in Botswanaland. I have done what I thought was appropriate. I do not feel deflated. I truly hope the good times continue to roll. But I know that life is full of unknowns, thus now I am somewhat prepared for those unknowns.

It is now time for me to grab the new era with both hands and shake it heartily for there is much to do.

Just a

Peace Farmer

-- Peace Farmer (peace-farmer@usa.net), January 02, 2000