Didn't I just write my 2008 New Year's post? Don't I still have to look at the front of a calendar to make sure 2009 is the correct year? Usually this settles in by May-June. Not this year. Thank God Steve does not judge me.
You really packed it in though. As I think back to all you've given to me, I am truly in awe. And I wanted to say thank you for a few things. Before I forget them. Or they go unnoticed by the sexy- glam-rock that 2010 promises to bring.
Thank you 2009 ...
- for giving me back my husband. Less travel, no grad school. I'm confounded and amazed at how I much more I can continue to love him. And to be a little more selfish - I could really even take more time 2010. If you will let me.
- for back-peddling my way into a Book Club. What a fun way to spend a night a month. And a great way to start reading books I would have *never* read before. I owe Twilight to you 2009. And that choice quite possibly changed my (and several co-workers) lives. Thank you also for Good Reads.
- for taking away some of my pride, and reminding me that forgiveness and understanding are two of the most important parts of a friendship. I am so incredibly lucky to be back in contact with truly wonderful friends that slipped away in previous years. I'm not sure how you did it, but my heart has softened and I am so grateful. I will never hold another grudge in my life.
- for reminding me why I never need to visit Las Vegas again. It is not my kind of town.
- for great concerts. Big Head Todd, ZZ Top (Storytellers), Skynrd, Sara Bareilles ..
- for trying to teach me golf. I hope to learn, one day. I really do.
- for some incredibly fun friend visits to Chicago - like Andrea & Erik and Karrie & Steve. And for some awesome BBQ's on the back deck, when you decided to let us have a taste of summer. We truly are lucky to have such a great group of friends in Chicago.
- for the best gift you will ever give us. Although at the time, we might have been a bit dazed at those two little blue lines, we are forever thankful. Now we just hope and pray 2010 carries its side of the deal and we have a happy, healthy baby in March. Even if she does have a crooked head like Steve did when he was born. It obviously straighted out, eventually ...
- for giving us someone we can trust with Vinney, George, our house and all our fosters. I am not sure WHAT we would do without Aggie.
- for proving to us cancer is not a death-sentence. And showing us strength and will come in small packages of love and determination. It also comes in Mom's, sisters, wives and friends. Donna we are still so proud, and amazed at all that you have done.
- for letting us see, if even for a short time, our team of nieces and nephews. We may not be close in terms of states, but we are still a close family.
- for the Chicago English Bulldog Rescue, and the opportunity to take on a greater role as the Volunteer Manager. I have never met a group of people who care this much about bullies, and rescue and am astounded at their capacity for service and volunteerism. A trait I will be honest, I was worried some did not care about anymore. Thank you 2009 for showing me I was wrong!
- for knocking me back a peg or two. And giving me little to no hope in Seattle sports. No really. Who needs a winning team?
- for prenatal vitamins and the magic that they are. My hair has never grown so fast, or been so strong!
- for so many friends who are also pregnant and having babies around this time. It's been so wonderful to track this progress with other friends, in the state, out of the state, due before me, due after me. What a great bonding experience and hopefully will lead to many friends for Jane.
- for the entire country tanking. Honestly. It was a wake-up call. I am thankful to still have a job, I truly am, but it was also a strong reminder to live within my means.
- for my favorite word. Chillax.
What do you want to thank 2009 for?!?
