Reflections of 2011

Wow- another year has come and gone! It's been quite a busy one for us, but then aren't they all? I love this time of year as we "wind down", hopefully take a moment from the craziness of holiday shopping, parties, and stress and reflect on the previous year, and make goals for the next.

For me, I feel so blessed to have attended 29 births this year (3 more if everyone delivers on time!) Helping families through the magic of birth is literally my life's passion. Despite the weird, unpredictable (and often LONG hours) I couldn't be happier. Still teaching Childbirth classes, and providing postpartum support to families as well. Thank you to all of you who have opened your hearts and homes to me! My spare time- ha! Sleep, yoga when I can (should do more), read.

AJ still plugs away at TEA, his 11th year. There were layoffs, so he's got more responsibility for the same pay, but grateful for the job, which he also loves (the geek). He's constantly studying and working towards continuing education, a new certification, or professional development. In his spare time, he's making some sawdust, working on the boat, or watching an episode of the X-files on Netflix.

Kelsey turned 18 as you can see in my previous post. She's a senior, contemplating college... St Edwards in Austin seems to be the top choice right now... not sure of a major, potentially the healthy sciences or psychology. (Don't tell her that's what mom took!) She's growing up into a beautiful young woman... hard to imagine her not being at home next year! Her favorite things to do-- go out (anywhere) making sandwiches for "the gang", reading, and cutting up t shirts into interesting designs. (Also hanging out w/ her best friend, Nathan, aka "Hobo".

Nathan is 15, only 3 months from 16. He's got a drivers permit in the works for Christmas break. That's hard to think about my baby behind the wheel! He's a kind, sensitive guy-- much bigger than mom now-- he thinks that's so cute! He's an avid video gamer, plays the bass guitar, and likes to entertain "the gang" here at the house. It's rare for the game room not to be full of teenage boys!

For 2012-- I look forward to celebrating my 23rd anniversary, watching my daughter graduate from high school and send her off to college, helping my son learn to drive a car and get a license, I hope to spend more time with my parents and in-laws (the only down side to my job is always being "on call") and some wonderful family summer vacation to ... California? Colorado? Or something new like Florida? Many adventures await us!