the daily dose

2008 was a busy year for us, bringing many changes and ‘firsts’ for me…

February….son flew for the FIRST time across the country with his fiance to meet her family.  Hard for a Mom to let her lil birdies fly away!

March….17 year old daughter enters her 2 photographs in the county fair…wins FIRST place for one of them, and third place for the other.  A new-found hobby/interest she loves and is quite good at it!  Yah daughter!

April….FIRST-born son and fiance get married.  Alas, time to cut those apron strings.  The wedding was planned quickly, and although it rained (outdoor ceremony/reception), it was still a beautiful day!

May….daughter graduates High School.  We homeschooled her from 5th through 12th, and are very proud of her accomplishments. 

June…same daughter turns 18.  Wow, both my ‘babies’ are grown!! 

July….much needed vacation in Orlando with sis and her fam.  Launched my FIRST co-owned online Scrapbook Store.  Son also turned 21…yikes!  Mom isn’t so excited her ‘boy’ is now old enough to drink.

August…son and wife move into their FIRST place…30 miles from here.  Seeing his room empty for the FIRST time was very hard for me…..my FIRST-born has moved on to begin his own life.

September….FIRST time in 7 years, I do not homeschool.  The chapter in that book of my life is closed. 

November….a mixed-emotion month for us, we had to put-down our beloved dog of 13 years.  Also the same month that my Dad passed away unexpectantly 10 years ago.  And a very close family member had to endure a very serious medical procedure.  We also enjoyed a wedding celebration for my brother in law, and a wonderful Thanksgiving with family, friends, good food, fun and games.  Always a great way to kick-off the start of the holiday season!

December…my favorite time of the year.  This was our FIRST Christmas Eve and morning spent without our son here.  It was weird, and he was missed….but I realize it’s time for him to begin his own traditions with his wife. 

As the new year approaches, I am filled with happy memories of 2008 and am optimistic and hopeful that the next year will be full of new opportunities, precious moments, healthy minds, bodies and spirits! 

HAPPY 2009!