2009 Highlights

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

2009 Highlights

As another year comes to a close and I reflect on these past 364 (almost 365 days), I'm reminded of how fortunate I am to travel and enjoy wonderful memories with family and friends. Here's a look back at our 2009 highlights (some pictures in slideshow above):

Angels fan cruise to Ensenada

Betsy's 30th birthday party in Big Bear (my first trip to Big Bear and Lee's first
time in the snow)

Angels Opening Day (always a highlight!)

My "niece," Mila's birth and my trip to Chicago to meet her

Dad's lifesaving award ceremony

A weekend getaway to Paso Robles (one my head hasn't forgiven me for)

Dana Point Relay for Life to benefit our friend, Holly

Lee's 40th Birthday Parties (yes, two surprise parties!)

Lee's Mom's surprise visit

Big Bear with Julie and Bruno

Our five-year wedding anniversary

Our annual pilgrimage to Charleston for some R&R, Lee's second surprise party & Lee's
Dad's 75th birthday

Holly & Clint's wedding

Lee's trip to Charleston for Brian & Amanda's wedding

Our pre-Christmas weekend getaway to San Francisco

Many special holiday dinners and gatherings with friends and family

My "nephew," Chase's first birthday party extravaganza (the most elaborate party for a
one-year-old that I've ever been a part of)

May 2010 be just as exciting. Happy New Year!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

2009 New Year's Resolutions - revisited

It's been a while since my last post, because I haven't felt very inspired or had any new favorites to share. So, here I am, back in the saddle...for now.

As we approach year's end, I wanted to take a look at my 2009 New Year's Resolutions to see how I was coming along with meeting my goals.

1. Find a new job - haven't been successful with this, but not without lack of trying. When the time is right, it will happen!

2. Get better control of finances - for the first half of the year, we were well on track with this; however, if you read #3, you'll see why it's been tough this year (a LOT of medical bills). BUT, we've cancelled all credit cards and have set ourselves up on monthly payment programs. Slowly, but surely, I'm seeing a dent being made!

3. Try to have a baby - Most of you know I had to have surgery this September to correct some issues. I've just recently been "cleared", so this will be a goal for 2010 now!

4. Eat healthier - I must say this still is very difficult. I do my best to incorporate healthier items at lunch vs. fast food (a lot of Subway, Soup Plantation, salads), as well as more chicken, turkey, brown rice and veggies for dinner. Not entirely where'd I'd like to be, but definitely better than the first part of the year!

5. Exercise more - This definitely still needs improvement

6. Donate more - I certainly accomplished this goal for the year and still have more to donate before 12/31.

7. Spend more "date time" with Lee - This is definitely a completed goal. Lee and I had some great trips this year, and we're looking forward to San Francisco next weekend!

8. Help Lee's business grow - Wow! Can I say that this has definitely been achieved? By promoting Lee's website on Angie's List, Merchant Circle, etc., as well as continuing e-marketing, Lee has been swamped. At one point, he worked three weeks straight without a day off.

9. Drink more water - along with the eating healthier, this could use some improvement; however, I must admit that I've at least cut out a significant portion of soda and alcohol, and replaced it with iced tea, lemonade and green tea. I'm getting closer to water, but not entirely there yet.

So, there you have it. Overall, a pretty good status. Can't wait to see what 2010 has in store for me.