2009

Each New Year's Eve, I'm always curious what will lie ahead in the year to come. I usually predict "same, boring, usual" type things and usually ... I'm VERY WRONG. On the eve of 2009, I never would have imagined the "life stuff" that would get packed into the past 365 days.

In January, our J. How turned three. Two was easy in comparison. Three was a year that took our parenting skills to a whole new level.

In February, an executive decision was made to remove the mullet from the back of Eli's head.

In March, we ventured outdoors. Tried new things like t-ball and soccer. And tried our hardest to figure out some activity that would actually EXHAUST our children ... we're still looking!

In April, we shed the long pants and welcomed the early summer. Anything relating to water was on the agenda.

Our May was a bit messy. It also included a LOT of processing as I had a second miscarriage. But it also brought me to an understanding of thankfulness unlike anything my heart has ever experienced. God remained faithful ... and drew my heart to do the same.

June was a welcomed month of CRAZINESS. We weren't on a schedule ... we had no plans ... we just let the day take shape.

In July, our children discovered SeaWorld and developed a new LOVE for underwater life. Shamu became a quick favorite and Eli became our little marine professor.

In August, we took a last minute trip to Montana and loved the slower pace of life. Fishing, boating, backyard ice cream cones ... besides our luggage getting lost and our flight getting canceled ... it was a great family memory.

In September, I regained my need for organization and took on some house projects. I became a serious fan of a good basket and label.

In October, I met my nephew for the first time. What fun to be an aunt!

In November, my parenting skills took a break and I found myself feeding the kids M and M's at 8am.

But given the news we announced in December, it all makes sense.

And in January, we'll start the year off with another birthday ... a MOVE ... and finding out whether the baby within will complete our family with "My Three Sons" or if we'll add a bit more pink to the picture.

It's been a year. One of super growth for me. And seeing as I already know a little of what 2010 will hold ... I'll stay away from predicting a boring year. I have a feeling ... things are about to get crazier by the minute!