A Resolution Worth Keeping

In 2011, I am only making one resolution...

I resolve to slow my life down and enjoy the precious moments I have with my little kids. I resolve to cherish every spontaneous snuggle, kiss, and "I wuv you, Mommy". I don't want to get so absorbed in the hustle and bustle of life that I miss watching them grow up.

Goodbye 2010, you've been great!

Welcome 2011 and all the amazing experiences you promise!

Christmas 2010 Highlights

• Andy had to work on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day which stressed me out, but he was able to go to work on Christmas day from 4 am until 7:30 am, come home and do Christmas with the kids and me, go to my parents' house and then go back to work from 4 until 7. Not too shabby.
• Jackson seemed to understand the excitement of Christmas and that Santa comes and gives presents to good boys and girls. He was excited to meet Santa and then called Santa on Molly's toy phone to say "Hello, Santa? Fank you for my presents!" and we didn't even tell him to.
• I made the Christmas tree kid-proof and I'm glad I did since they were very interested in the ornaments. I also didn't put out my Christmas stars this year for fear that making a little 2010 star would make Natalie come early (her birth would mean that I would make a big Natalie 2010 star and the little 2010 star would be null and void).There is a note in the star box that I didn't make a star this year and will need to make a 2010 star next year.
• My favorite thing this year was making a "special project" with the kids for the Grandmas and Grandpas. The kids painted their handprints onto ornaments and then I turned the fingers into snowmen. Jack LOVED helping with this project and the mess wasn't too bad!
• Andy and I decided not to get each other anything because we're cheap...errm frugal... and are planning on buying a new washer and dryer (maybe tonight!).
• Andy's favorite gift = beer making kit. Stacey's favorite gift = weekend away with no kids (after Natalie sleeps well). Jack's favorite gift = remote controlled tractor from Santa. Molly's favorite gift = all Jack's toys. Natalie's favorite gift = Christmas cookies.
• Both kids loved putting stickers on their Advent calendars each day, watching "A Very Monkey Christmas", going to see Christmas lights, wrapping paper, anything penguins, and the special treats they got (M&Ms, popcorn, etc.).

Overall, Christmas was wonderful and magical and exhausting (especially for 35 week preggo Mommy) and we're already looking forward to next year.

On a baby note, Christmas was my unofficial goal, so Natalie is welcome to arrive anytime!

A Letter to my Husband

Dear Andy,

Thank you for being such an amazing father to our kids. As I type, you are in Jack and Molly's room making a "Cave of Darkness" and snuggling and making them giggle uncontrollably. You already told them that you missed them so much this weekend while you worked and asked them what they did today. You let them pick which pajama pants you would wear this evening and you encouraged them to pee pee in the potty. All this shows that you are an awesome daddy who encourages our kids to make their own choices, scolds when they make bad choices, shows them just how loved they are, and brings joy to their lives.

I can't wait to have another little baby with you in six weeks.

I love you.

Me