Happy New Year!

First I have to tell you that we had a wonderful Christmas. The girls had a wonderful time, we didn't go too crazy with presents but the girls love what they got and have been playing constantly since the toys were opened. This year was also the year we worked really hard to make sure that they understood the true reason. I don't know if they truly understand yet but knew that it was Jesus' birthday. And at 2 and 4 that was all I really was hoping for.
Happy New Year! Our family had a quite new years night. Our neighbors set off fireworks but we didn't stay up to watch them. The girls actually stayed up until just after 10 pm, which was very unusual. Typically they are in bed by 8:30 but we decided to let them stay up for a while since it was News Years.
So I am going to take the advise of Fox News this morning and dwell on the good of 2008 and not the bad! The past few days I have been dwelling on all the struggles that 2008 brought but today I am here to say that I am so thankful for those struggles as well as for all the wonderful things God has given to me and my family.
We have 2 healthy beautiful girls that I am so very thankful to have in my life. I am also thankful to have a wonderful and patient husband that I love so very much. Also in 2008 we finally decided to become official members of our church. In doing that we have found a wonderful family, our church family! We go to church with so many wonderful families and friends. I enjoy being able to help teach the 3 year old Sunday School class the last few months.
In 2008, the girls had some new things happen. They both took Swim Classes for the first time as well as Gymnastics for the first time. Elizabeth took her first (and second) long drive trip, to PA and to IL. Allison was on those trips also but technically her first long drive trip was when she was 2 months old moving from Charlotte, NC to Valdosta, GA, which was a 9 hour drive.
We have many wonderful things to come in the New Year. We are hoping no more diapers will start in 09 for starters. We will also get to celebrate Elizabeth turning 3 and Allison turning 5 this year, of course Jim & I will also be turning a year older (but we wont' talk about that). My hopes for the New Year is that I spend as much time as possible with my family and friends. Also Jim and I both have made a commitment, along with people in Church to read the bible in one year! I am looking forward to a Christ Centered 2009.
I also pray that everyone that might be reading this has a healthy, happy and Christ centered 2009.
With much love... Happy New Year!