Happy New Year!

Hello everyone! I hope that you had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year's Celebration!

We counted down last night at 7 PM as it was midnight in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. When the new year came we jumped 7 times and threw (Prima) flowers. (According to my Brazilian source (aka google.com) it is a tradition there.) I'm pretty sure that Prima never thought of that use for their flowers! (giggle...) The kids enjoyed jumping and tossing flowers so much that we ended up doing it about 10 times. This may become our new tradition.

As it is the new year, I've thought a lot about 2009. It was a challenging year for my extended family and I and honestly, I'm really glad that 2009 is over.

In 2009, I injured my knee resulting in a 2 months of pain, surgery and 5 more months of beastly physical therapy. (Not fun.) I'm just now using it normally-ish again.

My mom injured her same knee. (Apparently, knee injuries are contagious.)

My grandmother-in-law broke her hip. (Ack!)

My mother-in-law fell and broke her leg twice. (Double Ouch. She wins the award for worst injury. Congratulations K!)

I'd say we've contributed enough to the orthopaedic surgeon fund. What do you think?

On a happy note...because aside from the challenges, we were also very blessed in 2009.

My brother had his first baby giving me my first nephew that lives near me. I love seeing Nate as a daddy.

My other brother got engaged to a wonderful woman. I can't wait to get to know her more!

The kids and I spent a fun-filled week in Cape Cod with my family.

The entire family had a lovely trip to Utah to see Todd's family.

We got a backyard.

All the kids are healthy and happy and doing well in school and life.

Todd has a wonderful job and because of that I'm able to stay home to raise the sweeties.

I feel that my art continues to improve and I'm pleased with the path my design career has taken.

Despite all of the bodily injuries, the year was a success. However, I'm still glad it is over. I'm very excited to start afresh.

Speaking of starting afresh, I've got a few goals this year that can be shared without too much personal embarrassment...

1. Decrease the gap between project-start-date and project-completion date. In December 2009, I finally completed a few projects that I started in January 2009. I've got to do better with that.

2. Organize my life. We moved into our current home in March 2008. I had baby Quinn in October and hurt my knee January 2009. With all of these major events, the house and my studio have suffered greatly. It's time that I take control of my environment. On the same note, I'd like to beautify my surroundings. I'll be spending a lot of time on home decor projects this year.

3. Find my place in the art world. I've been bouncing around a lot and I'd like to focus more and take on projects that bring me happiness and personal fulfillment.

So here's to a New Year!

To all of you sweet readers...thank you for visiting my blog this year. I'm really honored that you would take the time to read my ramblings. It has been really fun getting to know all of you and reading about your projects and thoughts. I know this is a little sappy, but it is quite fulfilling to "meet" other women with the same interests, goals and sometimes the same challenges. All of you are amazing, amazing people and I just love having you come visit me.

Have a wonderful New Year!

xoxo

Bethany