
Tag by Katie Pertiet designerdigitals.com

...I can truly say that this year has been one of the most interesting years that I can remember. A lot has happened that I can note as memorable milestones in my life and the lives of those I know and love. Some were joyous while others, sorrowful, but still they have changed my life forever.
Do YOU have a life changing experience that stands out in 2009?
As the New Year looms around the corner I'm reminded of all of the past goals that I had set for myself.

Christmas Eve 2009
2006 it was "completion", to complete the tasks set out before me. I'm still in the process today, and I'm doing pretty good, too!
In 2007 I "reflected, released and rejoiced" I believed that I CAN do it (and I did!)
In 2008 it was a new season for me, a season of "expectation" and "preparation", I quit my job and went back to school, and changed my career. (AND I'M LOVING IT)!!!
In 2009 I set my attainable goals as:
- Spend more time with family (i.e. travel, vacation, conversation) (Did it)
- Read more, and turn the TV OFF!!!! (oooooh this one was HARD!!!)
- Spend less money on scrapbook supplies...(AARRGGGG! that was a hard one to write down)! (Yep, I can truly say that this was achieved)
- Happily dedicate myself more toward my responsibilities (i.e. home, church, community) (happy and dedicated, too! LOL)
- Pray more (And I did more publicly...yay ME!)
Next month I'll share what goals I've set for 2010. Feels weird saying and writing 2010! Speaking of which, My hubby and I are going to our 30th year Class of 80 Reunion in July! Who's OLD?!!! Not ME!!!! Got to lose some weight, though, I got to represent! LOL!
How was your Christmas? My parents, Sissy & BIL came to stay and I enjoyed the preparation of their arrival and their stay.
"how DOES this thing work?"
Of course there were some stressful moments, like their flight here. NWA lost my Mommy's luggage, delayed them in Detroit, they had to pay an extra $10 for a ride to their next gate, AND...my Dad forgot to pack his undies!!!! LOL! Whooooo! What an experience! But they arrived safe and in good spirits. I love having them and wish they all lived closer to us. Their trip home was safe and with a lot less drama.
On Christmas Day we gathered at my home to exchange gifts:
The Real Meaning of Christmas
Each of us drew names and bought 3 items off of that person's list:
Happy family
Sharing the Love
Trying to keep things within our means and not over spend. I was concerned with the cost of travel and the debt that comes after the holidays. It seem to linger on through half the year. NO MORE!!! We have to be more wise in our spending. We are going through some troubling times in the economy...
The Sushi Caper!
It snowed here on Christmas Day just while we were opening our gifts. It's as if someone said : "Cue the snow" I loved it cause it didn't stick!
Trey really impressed us with his thoughtful presentation and gifts. It really warmed our hearts. I love handmade gifts! They are so meaningful. My kidults really played "Santa" well this year! Love you guys!
We cooked, baked, and ate like crazy. We had friends over and shared in good times. All in all it was a great holiday.

Pop-Pop prepares the Sausage Gravy
Nana helps Trey bake his Sweet Potato cake
Bro made his famous "Turducken"
Hubby gets coffee ready
At first, I didn't think that it was a good time to, but now I'm so glad he did. It looks great. He's putting some finishing touches on it right now. Post some pics of the completion later.

Christmas Day 2009
So, the Holidays are almost over and the new year is upon us. What do you do to prepare for the coming year? What were YOUR goals and resolutions from last year? Whatever they were, did you follow through? What do YOU think the year 2010 will bring? Well, whatever it is, we must make the best of it. And as we do, remember to always...
...Let LIFE inspire YOU!











