Happy New Year!!

Every year around this time I spend time looking back on the year by going through my blog posts and wall calendar. It's been a busy one! I think the best part of this year has been the growth we've all experienced and, NO, I am not talking about the hair growth on John's upper lip during November & December.
This year Kate grew into a preschooler. Most of the time, she's obedient, helpful, happy, caring, and compassionate. At the same time, she struggles with being argumentative, ornery, and annoyed by her little sidekick. She's growing into quite the little leader (read: bossy) and, while she so wants and needs to do the right thing, she often has a hard time with her main authority figure (yours truly). I can see the internal struggle she sometimes has when she doesn't want to obey, but her personality just won't let her be that defiant. I can clearly remember that feeling....she is so her mother's daughter. =)

Luke has grown from a baby to a toddler this year. He has become quite a talker and such a boy! He loves all things cars and is as rough & tumble as they come. He keeps us on our toes and we came to the realization this year that that may never change. My doctor gave me the perfect statement to describe our Luke..."tender & terrible". That's it! In the good moments, he is the sweetest, most loving, charming little guy...and, might I add, is deeply in love with his mommy. =) But when he gets mad? Take cover! We're learning and he's maturing so it's getting better.

The kids have grown into such good friends and playmates. As with any sibling relationship, they can be each others worst enemy but they will defend each other to the end. I love it!

Our family has grown, as with every other year, into a stronger unit. We enjoyed a lot of family time together this year. John and I celebrated 7 years of marriage and entered our 30's (well, technically that was last year for John but that's ok). As we reflected on how far we've come from those 16-year-olds who got this whole thing started, we recognize how truly blessed we are. God has been so good to us! He has provided far above and beyond what we could have expected. We are blessed with a supportive extended family and great friends. 2009 was a good year and we're looking forward to 2010 being even better!

Happy New Year!!