Happy New Year!!

2008 was a year full of challenges. I tend to be an optimist though so looking back I reflect more on the good than on the bad. It was also a year full of changes. Our little guy, for one, has changed from a toddler just embarking on the exciting journey of walking to an adventurous and inquisitive two year old. We love him more every day! I switched jobs at the beginning of 2008 and that has proved to be a great decision for me and for our family, as I am much less stressed and actually enjoy my job. We sold our first house at the end of June and broke ground on the house of our dreams in mid-August. We are excitedly waiting to move in to our new home, hopefully by the end of February. We have learned that building a custom home is a challenging but rewarding experience. We are starting to see all of our choices come to light in the house and we are pleased with the decisions we’ve made. Moving, building, parenting a one turned two year old and other issues definitely put our marriage to the test this year. While there were points when the outlook seemed dreary, we have overcome the obstacles, continued to put our faith in God and grown even closer as a couple and as a family. We are learning to, as my Mom always says, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” We have been blessed with a second pregnancy and are looking forward to making preparations for our second child when we get moved to the new house. We will find out if we are having another little boy or a little girl on February 3rd and are expecting his or her arrival on May 23. 2009 will be another year full of changes, though I am looking forward to them. We have definitely been blessed more than I can even fathom at times. We both have good jobs that seem stable, even in this awful economy; we are building a beautiful home, and have an amazing son and another child on the way. We are thankful for all the ways that God has blessed us and for the family and friends that continually support us in all that we do. Here’s to 2009! Happy New Year!!

I am not usually one to make New Year’s Resolutions but there are a few things I’d like to attempt this year (and posting it on my blog will be a reminder to me):

*Don’t sweat the small stuff and stress less.
*Worry less about things I can not control, and enjoy life more.
*Find a church near our new home where Hubby and I both feel comfortable (and attend regularly).
*Read the books on my “to read” list.
*Attempt to find a good balance of time spent with my hubby and son, our extended families, and friends.
*Have regular “date nights” with my husband.
*Have regular "girlfriend days (or nights)" to stay in touch with and connected to my girl friends.
*Plan a family vacation!