I'm kidding. I think that it's clear that we are all stuck with the me that I am. Here's my New Year's Resolution. To actually write on this blog. And who will know if I don't?
I'm looking back on a year that seems to have been pretty challenging for every single person that I know. Reflecting on the facebook statuses of people, the common thread was "hey, 2010, don't let the door hit you in the butt on the way out." I would have to agree. For me, we have had a pretty major course correction at our house. Financially, things were pretty dim in 2009 but that had nothing on 2010. With Jake's injury, it seems clear that we needed a different plan. Or, any plan at all. Both Jake and I enrolled in Master's programs and added that to our already hectic schedule. There have been days that were pretty dreary emotionally for me. There is always someone out there, though, who's problems and challenges put our own challenges and heartache into perspective.
I know someone who lost his father and someone that's mother was diagnosed with cancer. A friend had a baby dangerously early. The same baby went back into the hospital with RSV. Two people that I know were audited by the IRS. A young adult with all of the talent and opportunity that anyone could ask for took a major step backwards on the road to success by making really bad choices. So many people are struggling financially. I know three marriages that are ending after many years.
When things are put in to the proper perspective, here's what's true about my life. I have a husband who loves me best and has since high school. I have had five healthy babies who are growing up a little each day and what I see amazes me. We are (generally) healthy. We have a large extended family that offers love and support even when they think we're being stupid. We live in one of the most beautiful places with so much opportunity. Where else can you be in Tahoe or San Francisco in a short drive? A little farther - beach. We have knowledge of a Heavenly Father who loves us and a Saviour who is there to pick up the pieces of the messes we make of our lives if we do our part.
I hope that 2011 is less stressful than 2010 but I seriously doubt it will be. I'm pretty sure that all we can do is figure out how to cope with what life throws at us and every once in awhile look around and realize that we probably are better off than we think.
