Without the Bitter, The Sweet Just Isn't as Sweet...

Ever since I was younger I've always tried to look for the positives that come out of negative events in my life. My ability to do this was strongly tested in 2009 with the loss of our first pregnancy early in the year. I will admit, it was not easy, but with the help of family and friends I was able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Now I look at it with a whole new perspective in that our first baby was not strong enough to do all they wanted here on earth. But God works in mysterious ways because he has blessed Ryan and I with two little miracles. Words cannot describe the excitement and joy running through my heart everytime I feel a little poke in my belly. I don't know if it's because of everything that happened early in the year that has helped me appreciate this precious gift or if I would feel the same if I was blessed with twins the first time around. I feel no worry, no fear because I know these babies will be born with so much love surrounding them that they will be stronger than they'll ever know.

In looking back through the year, there have been so many wonderful events. I have seen family and friends marry the ones they love (12 weddings to be exact) and I couldn't be happier for all of them. Marriage is such a wonderful gift and it always finds the soft spot of my heart when I see someone I care about find that person they want to wake up to for the rest of their lives. So many new babies have entered the world this year including a new baby niece, Ava, for Ryan and me. Ryan and I were fortunate to keep our jobs this year and we are both very thankful for that as well. We are both looking forward to all the excitement 2010 will bring to our lives!

All in all, I think 2009 was a year of tests of strength, courage, and love and I wouldn't change a single day. Here's to a Happy and Healthy 2010!

"Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to mind? Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And auld lang syne!

For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne. We'll take a cup o' kindness yet, For auld lang syne."