2008 has been one of the most rewarding and challenging years I've ever lived.  I probably said something similar in my 2007 entry, but believe me when I say I had no idea back then how rich and precious and incredible life is - through both pain and pleasure. We're inherently built to find beauty on both sides of the fence, and I am glad I have!

Here's my official 2008 reflection and goodbye. May everyone have an amazing and safe New Year's this week! <3

You Rock My World

Sam, I have never in my life loved someone as much as I've loved the 8 pounds of sweetness that is little you.

The birth of our first child in July obviously was a huge part of 2008. His unexpected arrival 2 months early (I guess my baby shower was just THAT much fun that he wanted to come out and party... ) completely stunned us, but also blessed us tremendously as we realized what a tenacious little fighter he was.

He's home, healthy and through it all we learned what an AMAZING support system of friends & family we have, as well as what a remarkable gift it is to be a parent!  

He is my little man, my knight in cotton onesie, and I am so amazingly grateful for him. I wake up every morning and cannot believe he's here!









We will never have anything in common. I will always think she is a complete freak, and she will always think I am a shallow snob. But for some reason, we still enjoy each other's companionship whenever our paths cross.

She's in Santa Cruz, I'm in Sacramento, I am jealous she lives 10 minutes from the beach, and she agrees that she's in a pretty good spot :) I love my baby sister and admire some of the tough choices she has made this year.

Good job Becky, you're one of my roundabout heroes. Now get out of bed.


 










I have the best friends in the universe. It is pathetic that I cannot figure out how to layout just a handful of photos correctly, but here are just a few examples of the most amazing women in my life, which is probably a mistake to post because there are too many to slap up a photo of. I am so grateful for the impact they've had on me. There are so many weekly and monthly traditions that make my heart so happy. And for those of you who are out of state and far away......you're never really far from me at all <3.


 

My dance ministry has continued to revolutionize my life. I am so excited to be committing time in 2009 to expanding and developing it more than ever before. There are so many inside jokes and special moments with this wonderful crew. From the youngest child in her first pair of ballet shoes, to the dancers that are older than me and have taught me how to be stronger and more confident as a leader, I am forever grateful to them. They are my joy and remind me of God's love and His miracles every day I spend with them.




Things I Loved in 2008

According to Frank, I am the only person on earth who thought The Brothers Solomon was funny. I don't know if it was because I was pregnant or just plain loopy, but I loved it. The Secret Life of Bees was oh so melancholy, but beautifully done, and I definitely want to watch it again! Walk Hard and Step Brothers win the award for most inappropriate yet hilarious films I saw in '08, and well, you've gotta rent Tropic Thunder.



We axed the cable in 2008, but I still managed to maintain these addictions.



Books I am so glad I read: The Irresistable Revolution and The Heart of the Artist. I am relieved to know I am not the only moody, renegade Christian in the world :) 




Why I Already Love 2009

1) Going to the Caribbean in July
2) Going to Hawaii for Christmas
3) Project 365 is going to be amazing!
4) I'm going to get to write and dance more than ever before.
5) I might even........get some sleep :)