Sunday, January 9, 2011

2011

2010 was a great year. It wasn't perfect. There were a few hiccups along the way, but nothing we couldn't overcome. It was a nice change of pace considering 2008 and 2009 were pretty rough. This past year we went on some fun family adventures, explored Central Florida, went on a few vacations, spent a lot of time playing and enjoyed each other's company like never before. It was a good, good year.

2011 started with a bang, and things are definitely on the upward trend. I can't say that this year won't hold any disappointments or heartache...but I know that my family is incredible and we can survive anything.

I don't like to make resolutions. I've tried the no soda resolution, the lose weight resolution, the spend no money resolution. They always fail. It's just impossible. However, I believe in setting goals for myself and making lists of things I'd like to see, do and experience throughout the year. Nothing I have to stick to...just things that make me happy.  Here is my list:

1. Spend more time outside. Some ideas:
  • Tubing at Kelly Park
  • Revisit Naples Beach
  • Explore Bok Tower and Gardens
  • Take more walks
  • Go camping
  • Fly kites with the kids
  • Rent a pontoon boat off Disney property
2. Celebrate More...even the little things:
  • Eat @ Ohana for our 5 year Wedding Anniversary
  • Celebrate Christmas in July with decorations, turkey dinner and small gifts
  • Throw a BBQ with family and friends
3. Explore more:
  • Revisit Siesta Key
  • Go to Disney parks at least twice a month
  • Vacation at Vero Beach
  • Vacation in NYC
  • Swim in as many pools as possible
  • Take  to a baseball game
  • Eat around the world at Epcot (again)
  • Visit the Orange County Historical Center
  • See the Titantic Experience
  • See, eat and do more at the Florida Fair
4.Learn new things:
  • Read 24 books
  • Learn more about my camera and how to take better pictures
  • Learn how to sew using my thrifted sewing machine
  • Make more projects using Amanda Soule's books
  • Try to master the art of French cooking with Julia Child ;)
  • Blog more
  • Incorporate more science projects in homeschooling
5. Get on a better sleep schedule.

6.Shop less at retail stores and more at thrift stores, Craigslist and yard sales (or just make some of my own things).

7.Finally watch classics I've never seen like Casablanca, My Fair Lady, Sunset Blvd and Roman Holiday.

8.Declutter the garage, kitchen and the overwhelming amount of toys in my home!







Here's to a terrific year!!!! Cheers!



Saturday, January 1, 2011

Christmas

Christmas was fantastic. Words can't even express just how very good it was! We have been waiting for my brother to be matched with a kidney donor now for over 2 years....and just a few short days before Christmas, we received word that he has a match!!!! My Aunt's partner is going to donate her kidney!!! It was such a joyous celebration on Christmas Eve when we all got together to celebrate.



As always, the boys had a blast opening their presents. I love seeing the innocence, wonder and pure joy in their faces when they open something they absolutely love. There were a lot of those moments this year!