Looking back over the past year, there is much to be grateful for.
First, that I still have a job and well-paying one at that. Its clearly been a tough year for many people and maybe not that productive of a year for me, so I'm glad to still have a job and the opportunity to maybe still make a mark on the world.
Second, that we are all relatively healthy. AM had two major medical procedures this year, a kidney biopsy and her gall bladder removed, but has recovered from both of them. Although her kidney disease hasn't improved, it hasn't worsened either. ME recent EEG showed she needs to continue on medication, but she has not had any additional seizures. While we have certainly had lots of colds and allergies, overall we have come through the H1N1 season alright. We have also been protected from harm. Despite a tree falling down on our house, and a car accident and several near misses, we have been relatively unscathed. Passing 40 has been less kind, but still relatively benign.
Third, we have had some great family or individual trips and adventures. Chicago for JPD and AM, the Smoky Mtns for the rest of us, Hilton Head as a family, Chattanooga for the parents, backpacking and hiking in the Cumberland for JPD and SD, Cancun for the parents, Boston and Providence for JPD and SD (with DC and PA thrown in for SD). San Diego, San Francisco, and Philadelphia for SD. Travel and adventure is something we have wanted more of in our lives, and we feel blessed to finally have some opportunities.
Forth, the kids are doing great in school and with their hobbies. Both JPD and JA made the honor roll. JPD got a bunch of awards when he graduated from middle school. JPD has been excelling at playing the clarinet and saxophone. JA does wonderful drawings, is an awesome Boggle player, and is doing well at soccer. ME is learning to read and do math. We are proud of our kids and recognize that their success has little to do with our parenting skills.
Fifth, we have loving family and friends. Although our family is spread out from coast to coast and north to south, we have seen many of them this year, if only briefly. The same is true for our friends who have moved on from Utah and Tennessee. Thanks to blogs (and grudgingly I admit even facebook) we have felt connected even when we have been so far apart. We are also grateful for friends that still remain in TN. Thanks for your love and support.
So we close out this year grateful for the blessing we have been granted and looking forward to the opportunities the new year may present.
