family, food and the new year

Here it is 2009 - amazing to me.  I really wonder where 2008 went - it was so busy with a new baby, and a handicapped one at that, and adjusting to a large family...and all that goes along with that.  I don't usually fall into the "resolution" category when a new year starts, it becomes more of a reflection time for me = I really had an amazing and wonderful year - even if it did fly by at lightning fast speed.  My beautiful Anne, nearly 12 will be going into to mutual and is growing into such a sweet young lady.  I just am so thankful for how much she helps me out.  Michael is developing into a young man and, even though he's only 10, calls himself a "pre-teen"...I think I'm in trouble there.  Sydnee is so infatuated with High school musical (1, 2 and/or 3) that I swear if I hear "get your head in the game" one more time I will literally pull my own eardrums out and throw them at her :D.  Coleson is just mr. independent and so artistic and sweet - I absolutely LOVE his spontaneous laughter.  he sees the funny in things that other's might miss - he amazes me!  Joshua is the largest child I have - at 5 years old he already towers over his 8 1/2 year old sister.  He is the "ham-bone" and loves to be silly... Then, last but certainly not least, is my amazing little Jacob.  How I earned such a spirit is beyond my comprehension - he is a very different person than my other children and I will be forever grateful for my abilities as I see him struggle to do what I've always taken for granted. He makes me a better person, without a doubt.  

I am so thankful for my blessings!  I'm thankful that the Lord has carried me through so many hard times and taught me to trust in Him. I am without a doubt, absolutely, positively, beyond measure - thankful and grateful for my husband, Marshall.  We've been married for 13 years but I feel the strength in our marriage - like we've been together for 50.  He strengthens me, lifts and supports me, and is there for me 100%.  He has helped me see the beauty in marriage and family - and for that I will be eternally thankful.  I truly love him so much.  I love my children - I never realized a human had the capacity to love this much.... Ok, I know, it's super cheesy and "drama", but this is what I do when a new year rolls around....  so now you know what to expect January 1, 2010!!