Our Lil' Lovebug: Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!

Goodbye to another year. It is hard to believe yet another decade has come and gone. I look back over the last year and realize that it was one of the most challenging and rewarding year for me. There has been a lot of joy, a lot of tears, and a lot of hope. 2009 made me realize that I have a lot to be thankful for, no matter what life brings me, I have my friends, family, and most of God on my side. Instead of worrying about my resolutions or my new goals this year (I have many, I will post a blog about those soon), to close out the year, I am going to focus on what I am very thankful for. (Thanks to Liz and Nicki for the idea!)

Grace Anna-With each passing day I am more thankful for this bright ray of sunshine in my life. She has brought the joy and happiness that Matt and I longed for. Gracie is so happy, we are very lucky to have her as our daughter.

For Matt-He is the most wonderful husband. I loved him for longer then a decade, but that love has only gotten stronger. That love has gotten us through some really tough times, but love will carry you through. He is my rock, my best friend, and the person I always run too. I could not be happier then when we are together. I miss him when he is not with me. I am so thankful he is in my life!

My family-Each and every one of you have touched my life in a way that is unique and played a part in who I am today. I look forward to being closer to all over you in the future so that many more memories can be made. Thanks for all the support and love you have given me over the years, it is noticed and appreciated.
My friends, near and far-Your always there to lend an ear for advice, stories, or memories. I love that I can laugh or cry with you. I miss my shopping buddies, I miss the long talks, or the many dinners out. Thank you for all that you are and I look forward to all our good times in the future!
God-even though my faith has been tested a lot this year and I am not the most faithful Christian, I always know that in good times and in bad times, God is always by my side. I grew up in a Christian home with a family that loved God. I only hope that I can give Gracie the same kind of home to love and grow up in.
Life-life is short, even on those days that seem like they are never going to end. My new favorite “quote” is-Life isn’t about waiting for the storms to pass, it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” Treat each day like it could be your last; enjoy each and every moment.

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Our New Year’s celebrations were very quiet this year. We went to the Sun Bowl this year since I was able to get some tickets from work. It was a great game! David Archuelette (probably didn’t spell that right) from American Idol, performed the half time show. That was Gracie’s favorite part, outside of the playing with the pom poms Oklahoma provided for the fans.

At first, we had intended on it just being the two of us, but then we got a call from the daycare saying Gracie had broken out in a head to two rash. She did have a rash from some time of allergic reaction but it wasn’t anything serious so we decided to just take her with us. Gracie had a great time with the exception of the sun being in her eyes so much. (You can tell by the pictures…there are very few of her smiling…just a whole lot of squinting.)

After the game, we came home and just relaxed watching movies. I have to confess, we didn’t make it to midnight. We were exhausted and I still had to get up at 5 to go to work for a couple of hours. Not fun. But all in all it was a great way to bring in the new year. I loved being able to spend it with the two people I love being around the most.

We hope that all of you have a very delightful year full of joy and happiness! Happy New Year everyone!!!!

Running out all of her energy after being smooshed between Daddy & Mommy at the game.