So I blogged last year on Jan 7th about my new life goals. Not resolutions, goals. They were:
build better relationships with the people I love
take time to develop my strengths and talents and put them to use
take time for each of my kids one-on-one
to try at least one new thing (hubby would be thrilled if I tried kayaking with him this summer)
to take a healthy action and turn it into a habit (8oz of water anyone?)
to read and study my Bible more
join at least one women's group for support and friendships
I can honestly say that I've done each and every one of these things. Maybe not enough that they are habit, but definitely more than I did before. We didn't go kayaking because we were too busy, not because I wouldn't so maybe this next summer (but we have to finish our house first!!).
The kids and I are all getting along really well now-much better than a year ago. The oldest is having "oh I'm leaving home in 2 years and every day is basically a countdown" thoughts. It's fun to actually see the maturing and growth before your eyes. So many times you look at your child and see them as 4 or 5 and you turn around and they are grown but I'm trying to really take the time to notice the kids and their individuality.
My beautiful cousin Rachael has won her victory over breast cancer this year. We got to see her more this year than any other year but she's been an amazing warrior and it's been a battle no one wants to go through-but if I had to, I pray I would have the strength and determination to make it through as good as she did. And she gets the great boobs in the end so I'm almost jealous ;-) Seriously, I love you Rachael and I pray 2010 will the most amazing year for you and your family.
My bio-dad somehow beat his terminal cancer diagnosis. His wife said it was the natural herbs and Native American healing rituals that she was able to cure him. I believe either Jesus wasn't ready for him to leave this world, or he was mis-diagnosed. This kind of cancer doesn't just go away, but I know his wife didn't heal him.
My marriage is as strong if not stronger than ever before. We celebrated 2 years of marriage in September and I can honestly say I've never known a love like the one we share.
We were able to buy a house this year. It's been a project and then some. We currently have no floor and we've had to remove some walls. We've had to replace some rotted floor joists but we'll be putting flooring back in soon, adding walls where we need to and then working on getting the rest of the floor done and walls painted. We might be able to move in at some point after that. :)
The kids are doing well academically and adjusting really well at their new school. Lexi is having the hardest time but I think it will get easier for her in time especially as she gets to know more kids here.
Our business is growing and is very successful. I sold 3 houses last year (unheard of for a rookie realtor in 2009 I think) and am actually looking for 3 different properties for 3 different clients right now. I could be happy with 3 deals a year in this economy. :)
My little sister is in beauty school and I had her give me hi lights the other day before Christmas. She did an amazing job and will be great at hair. I'm so proud of her. She also graduates high school this summer. I can hardly believe this little 6 year old girl that came to live with my parents 12 years ago could be such a cool and talented little sister.
It's just been an awesome year-not without tears and pain, but I feel blessed to be saying goodbye in one piece and I am anxious for the new year to begin. I am starting school Monday, with the plan to get a degree. I will get a 2 year here and then transfer for my 4 year to another college that I could do online or satellite. I'm just worried about getting through Math. :)
I've spent some new years eve nights thinking about how I would miss the last year but I am looking forward to moving on and growing this year.