a new year.

I have to admit: 2011 was rougher than anticipated. 

There were some truly fantastic experiences Gid and I were able to share, but in hindsight I'd have to say I'm glad to have a new year to look forward to.

I can't explain it, but I have the most delightful anticipation for the upcoming twelve months. I don't usually feel particularly excited, but this year I do. (odd- since a lot of people think this is a bad year, with the world ending and all...)

I got the most beautiful 2012 calendar from my parents for christmas. Don't you love looking at brand new calendars? I love looking at the pages of the future and wondering what will happen on those days.

Normally, I don't make new years resolutions; or if I do, they're half hearted cliched repeats of the last 15 years: 

"Go running."

"Eat less."

"Only drink water." 

They never last more than a few weeks. I'm actually quite proud of myself every time for making it as long as I do. I have a nasty adoration for eating often, drinking various sweet things and above all else: not running...)

Resolutions don't work, wouldn't you agree? It seems like an awfully good way to disappoint yourself during january. At least, that's how I've felt in the past.

This year is different. 

My mind is wild with exciting challenges to give myself; ways that I can become the best person I can possibly be. Looking in the mirror, something about myself even seems the tiniest bit different. More of a sparkle in my eye? (Probably not with the sleep I've been getting lately.) Maybe a little more determination? A hint of mischievousness? (Gid would say that's always been there...)

Perhaps its the excitement of setting the sparklers off tonight.

Perhaps its the anticipation of being kissed at 11:59:59 PM by a handsome man with green eyes.

Perhaps its the joy of being able to dance for yet another lovely 365 days.

Perhaps its the realization of just how unbelievably wonderful my life really really is.

Whatever the reason for my new year jitters, 

I'm just so happy for it to be January already.

Have a lovely new years dear friends,

flying high...

You may not have known, but my nephew is in training to be a rocket engineer. 

Sure he may seem a little young to be studying such science.

But he seems to enjoy it so much, we don't discourage it.

I must admit: being an aunt is SO much more fun than I anticipated.

And forgive me for the silly placing of baby gabe as a superhero in an illustration of new york city. 

I simply could not help myself.

A superhero day to you all,

dear christmas 2011,

thank you for bringing us a white christmas. 

even though we're in texas.

thank you for bringing my sweet family together. 

including (perhaps especially) my sweet niece and nephew.

thank you for the unforgettable Christmas morning memories, full of pjs, giggles, and bad cases of bedhead.

(winner of best morning hair)

(grandma is singing a song. naomi is clapping along- and gabe seems a little confused...)

(gabe loves playing with anyone's toes. naomi does not like having her toes played with...)

thank you for giving me good reason to watch "Its a Wonderful Life". 

three times. 

so far. 

I cry every time, but thanks just the same.

thank you for another holiday season with my handsome sweet husband. 

can not believe its our third christmas as a married couple.

2011 Christmas- you're my favorite Christmas so far.

Be sure to have an extra thank you in your prayers tonight, friends. 

A lovely Christmas to you all.