2008

These trees were given to me by my mom.  In fact, all of the classy Christmas decorations I own were given to me by my mom.

I will remember this year as "The Year of Many Firsts".  

The first year that I started to feel better about losing my mom.  I don't mean that I forgot her, or that I don't grieve for her still, but I don't have the deep sadness I used to.

The first year that I have ever owned a dog.  Ever.  She is a lot of work, and fills the house with black hair, but I wouldn't trade her for anything.  She has brought so much to our family.  She has been one of the best decisions we've made - and we don't make positive choices too often!

The first year I haven't worked full time since I was 22.  My part time job from home has become pretty part time, about 8 - 10 hours a month, so I was able to start my photography business.  Have I made any sales?  Taken any photos for money?  Have a website?  No, but that doesn't mean I haven't started something!  2009 will be the first year I make money from it!!

The first year I've regularly volunteered in the kid's classroom's.  I'm teaching art.  Poor kids.

The first year that I peed in our SECOND BATHROOM!  The toilet is in.  We don't have a vanity, sink, shower, door, woodwork or tile, but the toilet works.  That's all that really matters in this household.

We're having a quiet evening at home tonight with neighbors.  We won't make it till midnight, but it doesn't bother me at all.  This is also the first year I've been able to catch up on my sleep - why would I stop now?