Sunday, January 2, 2011

Good Bye 2010...Hello 2011


Rob and I just the other day were sitting and talking about this past year and how quickly it flew by. It is not a stretch to say that 2010 was a blur. As I look back I am amazed at how much has changed in such a short period and feel content in knowing we made it though stronger then we entered. As I look forward I am excited about the unknown of what this next year will bring and for what God has in store for our family.


2010 started with Cooper turning 1. We have had a blast this year watching him change and learn so much. He has a zest for life that is contagious and I love watching him experience the world. There is a sparkle in his eyes that gives you a glimpse of his joyful spirit. He is such a loving and caring child with a tender heart and desire to make people laugh. We have been blessed beyond measure by having him in our lives.


We then welcomed Cadence into the family in March of 2010. From the beginning she had to fight for everything. From eating to attention it was a battle between her and Cooper. This has made her tough and determined. She is also a very mild and calm child, compared to her brother. She has a smile that lights up a room and you can't help but smile back at her. She gets so excited at just about all things. She loves her big brother and is loved so much from him. They already have that special sibling bond. She has melted our hearts and already gets away with so much more then we ever allowed Cooper to get away with. We are so excited to this next year and all the 1st that will come along with it.


We then had a big move to the Orlando, FL area. This was a huge leap of faith but has really brought our family together and forced us to really depend and rely on one another. We have been amazed at how quickly we were able to feel "at home" and really get adjusted. Rob is doing great at his new job and has really made some great connections in the community. I have joined a few playgroups as well as the YMCA and MOPS. These outlets have been a huge help in my adjustment with the kids and helped us get connected.


I have been blessed with a fantastic Husband that is also the World's Greatest Dad. He has such an amazing bond with both of our children and these past 2 years has really opened him up and allowed him to show that softer side. He has been an amazing provider and has given our family the love and security that we needed to make it though the move and the adjustment period. I feel incredibly blessed and overwhelmed by the love that he gives me and that it continues to grow stronger each day. He continues to make me a better person and I am amazed at how our marriage continues to grow stronger.


2010 also brought along with it some heartache. Rob lost his Grandmother this year and it was a terrible lost to the entire family. Grandma Schaal had the most amazing spirit and soul. She touched so many lives and we were reminded of that the week of her funeral. 2010 started with us talking about how blessed he was to have 3 out of his 4 grandparents still alive. We had also had the hard talk about being prepared for losing them in the upcoming years. We were not prepared for the lost of Grandma Schaal and there is a definite void in our lives without her. I am reminded of her often when I look at my children and they have a mannerism that is similar to one that she has. She was a blessing to all she came in contact with and we were all better for knowing her. Though she never had the chance to met Caddie we take comfort in knowing there is an incredible new angel up in heaven that is looking down and watching over both her and Coop. Grandma Schaal you will forever be in our hearts.


We must say weekly how amazed we are at the level that God has provided for us and the blessings that he gives us. We could not ask for more...2 healthy children, a steady job, money to pay for our lifestyle, and the love and support of our family and friends. All of our needs are met!


So with the start of 2011 we look back with grateful hearts and look forward to the blessings and challenges that will face us in the upcoming year. We pray that 2011 will bring many blessings to those we love and hold dear. CHEERS to the close of 2010 and to the beginning of 2011.

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