Farewell to 2009

Well, as everyone knows it was a rough year for us. Financially, medically, mentally, it was a rough year. Through all of our trials though I am so grateful.
It all could have been so much worse. I am grateful I still have a husband to sleep beside everynight. He could very easily have died or been paralyzed or something so much worse.I am grateful that Kris still gets up each morning and goes to work to provide for us even though he is in pain and his knee hurts among other things since his accident. I am grateful I haven't lost my house and I still have a place to call home. I am grateful for my kids for teaching me patience. I am grateful that I still have a car to drive and it wasn't totaled. I am grateful that my kids are learning so much in school and teach me too. I am grateful that Kylie has been able to do gymnastics and will be starting piano as well. I am grateful for my parents and their unconditional love and support I dont know where I would be without them. I am grateful to everyone who has put up with me even on my darkest days. Lets face it, I know I wasn't a peach this year. The saying what doesn't kill you makes you stronger is true!
I hope that 2010 will bring a year of Peace and Joy to everyone.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Grandma

I have been thinking alot about my grandma. my dad's mom. We went down there for omelets like we do every Christmas morning and I had a good talk with her.
We talked about pets, and things from her childhood. Then I asked to go see her jewelry. Grandma has promised each of her granddaughters a ring that is their birthstone. For as long as I can remember we have tried on grandma's jewelry and sat and talked about where she got each piece whether it was from grandpa at Christmas as a gift or from somewhere she vacationed.
While we were sitting there talking grandma said she would be happy to only live another 4 years. My heart broke..I have had a special bond with my grandma. I loved going down to my grandma's as a little girl. I loved to stay up late and watch Mash with her and grandpa. Play cards, make candy,puzzle, tie quilts, borrow books. Even now I call my grandma and tell her about my crazy life and I know she is only a phone call away. I dont always agree with her, and I dont always like her advice because she doesnt sugar coat anything. I love her dearly and I will have a void in my heart when she is gone and it made me so sad to hear her say she had bought her last couch and that she would be glad to get 4 more years. I hope she has more than that alot more than that!!

Gingerbread Houses

This year we decided to start a new tradition...gingerbread houses. This year we made it easy on ourselves and did a premade kit. It was actually really easy and I think next year we may venture out a little bit more. Wish I would have thought to take pictures while we are actually making it. Oh well, there is next year.

The Stockings Were Hung

Love these stockings! My aunt handmade them and I have one for each member of our family. Behind the handmade ones are the cheap ones from Target that Santa will fill for the kids.