New Beginnings...

New beginnings...I guess January 1st is as good a day as any to start new habits, or attempt to create them. I've never really been one to make resolutions. I try and start habits when I have the mental energy to begin them and when I can muster up enough enthusiasm and motivation to begin. Like exercising. Ugh. Like organizing my house. My house is neat, my house is tidy, as long as you don't open an cupboard or a closet, then you better stand back. But, that's not what this posting is about. I will save that for another time...

I've been thinking about new beginnings in our family. We have some exciting things coming our way...a new baby...Stacy starting at the UW...and then there is Lute...he's full of new beginnings every day. Every time I see him he's doing something new. The latest is 'I want'. He's got that one down. "I want a cookie" or "I want to take a shower" (dont' ask).

Carina and Nick are anxiously awaiting news of their adoption (you can read updates at Carina's blog -- NickandCarina.blogspot.com) Every day I wonder and pray for my new little grandbaby and his or her mother. I wonder if s/he will be at our family reunion in June. I wonder how old s/he will be next Christmas. I wonder what Lute will do when he realizes he has to share his mom and dad.

Stacy will be starting classes at the UW Bothell on Monday. Wow, hard to believe my youngest is going to start at the University. I'm so proud of her! Working and putting herself through school. I don't think I could do it. I hope she is able to balance everything...work, school, and some sort of social life. Oh, and she better not forget to chisel out some time for her parents.

--Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending --Maria Robinson

I am proud of my girls for their new beginnings. It sure keeps my life fun and energized and gives us older folk things to look forward to...I hope all of their dreams come true...and they live happily ever after...

"This is a time for reflection as well as celebration.
As you look back on the past year and all that has taken place in your life,
Remember each experience for the good that has come of it and for the knowledge you have gained.
Remember the efforts you have made and the goals you have reached.
Remember the love you have shared and the happiness you have brought.
Remember the laughter, the joy, the hard work, and the tears.
And as you reflect on the past year, also be thinking of the new one to come.
Because most importantly, this is a time of new beginnings and the celebration of life."

--Taylor Addison