Well said

I don't make New Year resolutions, because then I never disappoint myself. I do set goals though, and there may be no better time than January to try and change up the routine or way of embracing life. Enjoy a little inspiration, words from history past as we look forward at all the wonders 2010 has in store for us.

I can barely wait.

Take it slow

Be a good friend

Be present

Enjoy the little things

Have realistic expectations

My hope for you

The stockings were hung

This past week off work has been a blur; non stop errand running, visits with friends, early Christmas with my grandpa, haircuts, baking and cleaning!


Our Christmas tradition has always been a big Christmas Eve dinner and then a relaxed Christmas day brunch in your pj's. This year, we are trying out something a little different for Christmas Eve dinner- my mom, sister and I decided that we are sort of over the turkey and sides (had it already twice in the past two weeks), so we are doing homemade Chinese! I couldn't be more excited! I am in charge of the dumplings, friend rice (making from scratch eeee), edamame, and crab rangoon. My sister (the culinary school graduate) is in charge of the homemade egg rolls or spring rolls or something and that delicious ginger salad like shogun. Mom is in charge of the main dishes (beef broccoli, sweet/sour chicken), and matt's bringing the saki of course! He may not get to partake as the road scenario with the so called snow should arrive around dinner time, hurrying him on to Fort Smith. But I sure will!!


I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas with family or friends. I am ready for all the hub bub to start, then on to Matt's 30th Birthday next week!! So much to celebrate!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!

These are the days

This is my favorite time of the year,
because of the people that I get to spend it with.

So thankful for...

Dress up reunions

Welcome home parties

Cheers and laughter

Singin' and Dancin'

Sweet family time

Homegrown beauties

Lifelong friends

Hugs after such a long span of time

The one by my side

Wishin' you a Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Homeward Bound

I still haven't pulled pictures off my camera from Thanksgiving, so my posts will be slightly out of order, but I COULD NOT wait to welcome home Joanna and Richy stateside! The long journey of foreign approvals are finally behind them, and they will be arriving in Fayetteville this Thursday. I know life in Dublin was more than an adventure, and I can't wait to hear Joanna rehash everything. As for Richy, I know he will be experiencing a lot of the "newness" that Joanna lived through in Ireland, hopefully we can all help him with his transition!

Hugs to you both, see you SOON!

Peaceful

May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.




Just a little quote I received today from my mama

Bumps in the road

I have been missing for a few weeks, literally from life in general. I won't go in to all of the details, but I had a strange sudden problem last week that I thought was a torn muscle (you know from all that tennis I've been playing), which in reality was an awful infection. Needless to say last week ended with me in the hospital for a few nights, had surgery, and now on strict orders to rest at home for this week until I heal. Sometimes when life throws you lemons, instead of getting really down about it, though I've had my woe is me moments, I just feel really thankful. Thankful that I have never had any other reason to be in a hospital before now, thankful for amazing family and friends who are still cheering me up, thankful for matt as always- still trying to make me laugh even if it hurts, and most importantly to my amazing mom who has been my nursemaid for two weeks- taking care of duties way above and beyond.

This unsolicited down time has also reinvigorated me in the work out department, and I really want to get into running when I'm all better (ask me again in two weeks if I feel the same way...). I'm sure it has a lot to do with the fact I am still hobbling around, a far cry from jogging much less breaking into a sprint. More realistically, I have been wanting a bike for a few years, a Crossover I think. We have an extensive trail system all around Fayetteville that I haven't even explored. I can think of nothing better right now than hopping on my bike, taking a ride downtown for a little art show, glass of wine and cheese, then peddling home again.

I digress... Thank you for all of your thoughts, concerns and offers over the past week to make my life better. I feel like my cup is very full and I am extremely blessed.

For the love of costumes

Yes I love costumes. Yes I realize Matt may not share that enthusiasm. This is my standing round of applause for his effort and approval to let me deck him out in western wear to become Woody Pride from Toy Story. Jessie didn't come along until TS2, but I thought we made a nice duo. Enjoy!

Pretty good outfits, no?
I only wish you could see his boots over his Wranglers,
it really made the costume complete!

Courtney and I

Sarah and I- Wish I had gotten a picture of Juno and Bleeker together, they were priceless!

"There's a snake in my boot!"

Dustin and Morgan, Storm Chaser and Tornado

Em and Steph -aka 80's rocker or Cyndi Lauper!

Em and Cody- what a cute blond as Sandy from Grease!

Allison threw a great party as always!