The New Year

Well, it's a new year once again. Boy, time sure flies! Can't believe that Christmas has come and gone already. So much time is spent preparing, shopping, baking, etc. for the season, and then 'poof'-it's over. It was so nice to be with my family in Ohio for the holiday. We had a wonderful visit seeing family and friends. It was busy and went too fast, but we had some great conversations, game playing fun, and LOTS of good food to eat!
Now, it's back to the reality of the everyday, normal routine. School is in full swing, although we've already had a snow day and a 2 hour delay since vacation. It's wonderful to be on vacation, but always nice to return to the routine, as well.
We spent a lot of time outside today after church. I tested out my snowshoes (one of my Christams presents) on the lake and around the yard for about an hour. I like them! The kids enjoy sledding in the yard and being pulled in sleds on the lake. What a workout!!

We look forward to what God has in store in 2009. My theme this year is "encouragement". I did away with the 'new year's resolutions' a few years back and decided to prayerfully choose a theme for my year instead. Last year was 'boldness' and this year, with Kevin's help, we came up with encouragement. I want to work on encouraging others more, especially my husband and children. A positive theme for the year ahead. The kids made goals, as well, and I am going to put scripture verses along with their goals and hang them in their rooms so they can be reminded, as well as some encouragement scriptures for myself.

Well, Happy New Year to all! May God bless you in this New Year!