good night 2011. good morning 2012.

as i look back upon 2011, i am happy. great and lasting memories were made. birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings were celebrated. families were increased, babies born, babies first steps. the days were filled with  hugs, kisses, and "i love you's." 

i am excited for this new year and all it has to offer. i am not naive enough to believe it will be without it's trials, hardships, tears, and desperation at times - but i am prepared to gather my strength, and allow myself to look upon these upcoming challenges with optimism.

my new year's resolutions?

simply to be a more loving and happy person.

i will work on putting my family first, above the frivolous and meaningless things i've currently allowed myself to waste my time upon.

i will work on improving my relationships, whether acquaintance or long time friend or family member.

i will work on being more patient and flexible, not allowing a little blip to become a great big volcano. just breathe.

i will continue to take lots and lots of pictures of my family to record the happy times.

i will continue to blog frequently, simply because my children love the stories and photos.

i will give out more hugs and kisses to my babies, read more bedtime stories, sing more bedtime songs, take more walks to the park.

cuddle more, smile more, laugh more, love more.

more adventures, more trips. it's beginning to sound like this year will be the year of "more."

i will take care of myself. more rest, more nutrient-rich foods, more exercise, more outings with friends, more date nights with my hunny.

this year is going to be a big one with lots of unknowns. a new baby on the way, sam's graduation, a new job (crossing our fingers), and a new place to call home. i hope i have the stamina to take it all in stride and grace.

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today i am grateful for:

*the wonderful time we've had so far in arizona. i love that my children have two sets of loving grandparents.

*the warm sunshiney day. although it hasn't felt like christmas (anywhere, for that matter), it gives my children and i a chance at exploring and running around my parent's acreage.

*mimzy's ear infection medicine. she is feeling loads better and back to her fun-loving self.

*a new year, filled with new and exciting possibilities. it's strange how the motivation overflows at the start of a new year. in any case, it's great to feel motivated.