Some Perspective & A Holiday Top 5

This time of year I always find myself putting things in perspective, focusing on the things that really matter and sharing my heart. Last year, it was a revelation about my weight, body image and setting a good example for my girls. Looking back I can't help but smile, 2009 was the year I took control. I grabbed on to my resolution and kicked some major butt! But, there is still work to do... we always have work to do. This year it's all about living in the moment. Trying to be 100% present, enjoying the here and now. The last couple weeks were a great reminder.

This year was by FAR the best Christmas with our kids yet! They got into it more than we could have ever imagined and made it magical for EVERYONE around them. The energy and spirit was contagious. I found myself sitting back and taking it all in. My heart has never been so full.

As we sat here tonight talking about the last couple weeks, Conor and I took a crack at Our Holiday Top 5...

(in no particular order)

1. Holiday cards: No better way to get in the spirit of the season than to see family and friends on your wall each day.
2. Caroling in Quadville: We had four designated carolers each day, belting out a steady stream of holiday hits, and correcting you if you sang the wrong words!
3. Christmas Eve: Awesome family gathering, complete with "Reindeer on the Roof." An old family tradition featured a ladder, lots of footsteps, and instant delight and excitement for the kiddos!
4. Deer in headlights: We expected to hear shrieks of delight and screams as the kids came tearing out of the room to find gifts from Santa on Christmas morning. Instead, they were simply awestruck for a good 3 minutes. Russ didn't blink, and sat there with his mouth open in amazement while staring at the new Handy Manny tool bench. Absolutely priceless to witness.
5. Princess on the potty: After finding new Disney princesses and a sweet new (infamous) doll house, the girls spent the rest of the day teaching Snow White, Belle, and Cinderella how to use the potty, take a shower, and sleep "like big girls" in their own beds. It's hilarious listening to the running dialog all day!

The one constant throughout all these memories was family. It was awesome to have members from all sides around to celebrate and enjoy!

We hope you all have wonderful new memories of your own and enjoyed each moment.

Here's to a happy, healthy and fun loving 2010! Carpe diem!