:: THIS YEAR WAS A BUST ::

I didn't complete my 2009 Resolution of 50 projects. I believe I completed at least 50 projects, but I did not document, make tutorials, and all that I was planning... so I lose. I don't feel bad. I did other things instead.

I had the cutest little baby on the block.

I took my little family back to McCall Idaho and we all went camping for the first time.

Cohen started Kindergarten.

I got a new sister in law - Yay for Missy and Andy.


We moved in with Grandma.

A lot of other things happened, too, that I don't have photo proof of:

• My car broke down a few too many times
• We almost bought a house (we were under contract and everything)
• We finally moved out of our apartment
• Mike grew a pretty burly beard
• I got a new cell phone
• I lost two pant sizes
• I gained a pant size (but I am still down one)
• I cut 11" off of my hair
  
• I had strep throat for the first time in my life
• I finally found a pair of tall boots to fit my XXL calf (this in itself is a miracle)**
• I learned the excellence of crockpot cooking
• I learned how to say no
  
• I didn't write on this blog much
• I started stretching - what a difference it makes
• I went away on my first "scrapbook retreat" and I really enjoyed it
• I met many new friends
• I got a new church calling working with the Young Women
• I embraced my inner nerd and started playing some of Mike's weird games

I'm sure there are many more. I didn't just sit around reading your blogs all day - okay, that is my biggest time commitment.

As we move forward in 2010, the only resolution I am making is to do things with more heart. I often do things half way and I want to change that. So... Happy New Year to you all! May 2010 bring you what you want.

** EDIT ** Avenue.com is the source for large calf boots. I actually had a choice. There you go for all of you who have asked.

:: OH MAN ::

The worst blogger of the year goes to .... LORI! Man - I know there aren't too many of you out there, but I apologize for the lack of commitment to the blog lately. I've been so busy with my life, as we all are, and have had to put a few things on the back burner. I think I am getting more settled now and hope to get in my regular swing of things soon.

I'm entering the contest below because they are offering a little too much to even believe. It would be a Merry Christmas if I won. I never win, but now you all know what to get me for Christmas. :)

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?

• digital SLR
• new bike (mine got stolen last year)
• brown boots
• deep saucepan
• my wedding ring fixed

2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?

• a beautiful pair of earrings from a friend. I wear them all of the time

3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?

• I want to make a beautifully pieced quilt with machine quilting for my mom

4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?

• My sisters and I all got Cabbage Patch kids one year. My mom fought off crowds to find them.

5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?

• All Cohen wants for Christmas is a Nintendo DS with a Phineas and Ferb game. I'm sure we'll get it for him, but I still think he is too young.

6. What is your favorite holiday food?

• Ham and home made candy (obviously not together) - Divinity, Marshmallows, Chocolate pretzels. DELISH!

7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?

• All of my gifts for friends will be hand made. Scarves, mittens, headbands... yikes! I better get knitting.

8. What is your favorite holiday movie?

• Animated original Grinch

9. Favorite holiday song?

• Bing Crosby's "Silver Bells" & Karen Carpenters "Merry Christmas Darling"

10. Favorite holiday pastime?

• Sitting around and enjoying each other. I love driving around and looking at lights, too.