Saturday, December 31, 2011

Farewell, 2011

What an incredible year this has been.

A year ago tonight, I was getting ready to brave the crowds at the Rose Parade for the 3rd year in a row.  I was 24, working in a Special Ed classroom and loving every minute of it, excited about my new Etsy shop and filling my head with ideas of what I would do to make Happy Homemaker Me a thriving blog in 2011.

Tonight, I'm up in the Sierra Nevada mountains with my parents, my sisters, my Handsome Man, and the most precious rosy little girl in the world.  There is so much to reflect on and be thankful for!

I'm in love with a wonderful man who cherishes me, provides for me, and works hard so that I can stay home with our sweet Kayleigh Grace.  Nothing much happened with my Etsy shop (and I'm ashamed with how neglected this blog was for the majority of the year...) but I didn't mind much that the distraction that kept me away from both was the joy of the preparation and arrival of my first child.

God was so faithful to protect me and Kayleigh during the whole pregnancy, and to bring her safely into our world three months ago.  He has provided for us even when we're not sure how we're going to make ends meet, and we know that He will continue to take care of us.

2011 was a year of changes.  Jobs, homes, moving from "just" being husband and wife to also being dad and mom.  As exciting and wonderful as this year was, I know that next year will be even more exciting.  Kayleigh's first steps, first words...so many firsts!  As I tucked Kayleigh into bed tonight, I teared up.  For some reason, it breaks my heart to put a close to the year she was born.  How did that happen so quickly?  It's only been three months, but it's been three beautiful, treasured, wonderful months.  The coming of a new year means that my baby is going to grow even more.  I wish I could keep her as this precious, soft, pink little armful.  But I'm also excited to watch her experience new things, to be there for so many of her firsts.  To teach her so many wonderful things.

God is good.  He provides for us, He leads us, He gives us challenges among the wonderful.

As this year comes to an end, I'm going to go join my family and enjoy our homemade pizza and reminiscing.

Blessings to you in 2012!  See you soon :)

3 comments:

  1. Your family is just precious!!! I pray 2012 brings more blessing than you imagine!! Enjoy your time in the Mountains!! It looks lovely!

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  2. Happy New Year! I kind of know what you mean about being a little sad that such a good year has come to an end. I always struggle with that too, while trying to remember how blessed we are because we have another year to live!

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  3. Wishing you the best in 2012! We love you and hope to see you soon!

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