Happy New Year- Reflections of 2013

It's become tradition that I post a reflection of 2013, which is great for posterity and myself in seeing how we've grown and changed over time.
Shelley
I turned 46 this year (I thought I was only turning 45 so thanks Mom for reminding me) celebrating with friends downtown (see earlier post), attended a record number of births (33) plus 3 more thanks for my partner doula Allison who takes call for me 3 days a month now! I have a thriving doula business -- doing the work that I love. I also supported families all year during their postpartum period, and taught plenty of childbirth classes, all of which give me great joy. I've committed myself to self care, a lesson which took many years to learn. So eating well, doing yoga, regular massages (thanks Sally) and chiropractor adjustments are keeping me healthy and happy and feeling good! I spend a lot of time cleaning up messes, grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning up meals, but in between I try to take time to enjoy my wonderful family and friends with both quiet time and loud parties!

AJ (Tones)
Still works for the Texas Education Agency, doing some kind of software engineering stuff, which I don't really understand but he seems to love it and from what everyone tells me, he's good at it. He's also on the board for ASQ, a quality engineer association, so gets to hang out with those who actually understand what he does. He loves mountain biking and taking care of this house (never ends). He spends way too much time in front of a computer for my taste but I still love the guy. We will be celebrating our 25th anniversary this year (holy guacamole) with a tropical cruise! We sold the boat this year, so I am looking forward to whatever adventures are ahead of us especially as the house gets quieter (Fall 2014, see below)

Kelsey
Turned 20 and is in her second successful year at St Edwards. She chose a major! Kinesiology! She also has committed herself to self care, eating well, exercising, doing yoga, and meditation. She has blossomed into a beautiful (inside and out) young woman who is really finding herself. She worked as a lifeguard over the summer at Volente Beach, babysits for many of my friends and clients, and is hoping to do a trip through school to India next year!

Nathan:
Turns 18 in a little over a month! Finally got his drivers license and his first car this year, to my great relief. (Tired of taxi mom), took his first college class and got his first job. He's grown physically into a big guy-- loves weight training at school, and eats us out of house and home (thank you Costco and Sams) but also loves his video games. He and his band "Something Like That" use our game room for practice most Friday nights. He's planning to graduate this May and attend UTSA in the fall!