Goodbye 2010

New Years Eve was low key this year since we were heading out early, early the next morning. The kids loved the fireworks (Thanks Charlie) until it go too cold for them. Thanks Grandma for the Chinese Percussion drums. We ate Black Eyed Peas for "good luck." We all loved it which is great because the kids don't always like beans.

I am so grateful for each and every experience we've had together as a family. We've learned, we've grown, we've faced challenges together and we've made so many memories together this past year. I'm looking forward to 2011 and the memories that we will make.

One of my little struggles in life right now is figuring out how to fit everything into my routine. Sure, I’m busy. But the bigger obstacle is my sweet babe who is two years old and doesn’t like the idea of me getting anything done or doing anything that doesn’t involve holding her, entertaining her, or otherwise giving her my full attention. My only break is when I let her watch tv or play sesame street on the computer. But, I admit I feel guilty when she does that. It is a huge complex in me. Get a few things done in the day while holding Rachel or let her watch tv and I can conquer the world. Not really. But I love the feeling that I'm getting things done and not falling behind. This has been my challenge of 2010. I'm still looking to find that balance. I'm sure I'll find it in 2011.

Top Ten Memories of 2012 (In No Particular Order)

1. Nathan almost winning the spelling bee, starting AIM (Acquiring Intelligent Minds), elected treasurer for school, great season in swim team (endurance swimmer), and always on Honor Roll.
2. Emily - last year of preschool and started Kindergarten, Princess theme birthday party, and many playdates with friends. Such a good sister to Rachel.
3. Record breaking snow in Texas in Feb. 2010. 6 inches. School was canceled.
4. Flying to Washington DC for my brother Gary's wedding and seeing tons of sights. Great memories of the special sealing, delicious luncheon, bridal shower, man feast, get-a-way car, talent show, and so much fun playing with the cousins.
5. Allan playing first season of flag football, great season of swim team, top classes at school with all A's, many awards in scouts, turned 12 and received the Aaronic Priesthood.
6. Goodbye Boon, Hello Cheatham. 4 kids opening a new school in our neighborhood. Love walking to school (1/3 mile away), the best teachers (Handselected by the Principal), and latest technology.
7. A ton of changes to the house. New wood in dining and family room and furniture throughout the house.
8. 3 Trips to Utah - 4th of July, October for Bonnie's wedding, and Christmas.
9. Joshua - First time on swim team, started second grade, top reader in his class and often has to be challenged, baptized in Nov., loves to read, legos, and scouts.
10. Rachel - tries to talk in sentences, loves peek-a-boo, sleeps in her own bed and shares a pink room with Emily, loves Twinkle Twinkle Star, has a best friend that we do playdates with - Addie, and LOVES going anywhere.
11. Goodbye minivan. We made so many memories in this van and had great roadtrips. But with so many things broken, power windows worked only on drivers side, A/C worked only on high, and alignment repair would be $800. Then the transmission went. It was time to say goodbye.
12. Attending General Conference with the boys in Oct. 2010.