Happy 2012

2011 was a great year, I was sad to see it go. Hannah Kate is doing well in school and her activities, she's spirited and spunky and her character is beyond anything I ever hoped it would be. So proud of her! Luke has a heart of gold and his curiosity for how things work and why things are inspires me to see the magic in the everyday, mundane things. His enthusiasm for what interests him is so fun. I love how caring and empathetic he is. Ryan came into the family and I'm in awe of this new life - his wonder at new sights and sounds, and those precious giggles and smiles that feel like are only reserved for me. We are in a good place, God has been gracious and we are happy. I enter the new year with a slight fear that all of that could change, and it could, quickly and without notice. Tragedy, illness, job loss - who knows what tomorrow may bring. But I will try not to worry about the things I can not control. I will not let what feels like massive to-do lists and carpool duties and baby feedings overwhelm me. This year I am determined to live more simply and I hope that I will be a more patient wife and mother because of it.

Each NYE Michael and I talk about our hopes and dreams for the next year and recap the good, the bad and the ugly of the previous year. Some years we get out the pen and paper and write it all down, we make a plan, we get serious. This year we went out to dinner and had our annual discussion, but made no firm resolutions. Just a commitment to enjoy this feeling of being settled - no more babies, no job searches, and just focus on family and health.

I've recently found Pinterest and a few popular blog posts came across my friends' boards. Normally I don't get caught up in the blog world. I only blog to document our family happenings. But for some reason I read these and I am glad I did. They actually spoke to me enough to warrant their own post. Ha! I hope to keep these words at heart as the year goes on.

This one not only applies to sons, some points definitely apply to little girls and life in general. So refreshing and such a good reminder as to what is truly important. 25 Rules for Mothers of Sons

I just love this phrase "Do Less Be More" . I've adopted it as my 2012 motto. I resolve to de-clutter, say "no", get healthy, and streamline wherever possible.

Cheers to 2012!