Last post of 2012

2012 has been an interesting year for our family. To be honest, it is not a year I would willing live through again. It was stressful both personally and financially. But am I sorry we lived through it? No.

As I have said after many other struggles in our life, while I would love to undo the painful parts I likely wouldn't as they are what shapes us and makes us who we are.

The "house" dominated our lives last year. Wes was absent most of the year and all of our efforts were poured into that one endeavour. It was very hard on many fronts. I always suspected my husband could do wonderful things with a home if given a chance. The reward I have gained from this last year is confidence in Wes. Now I don't suspect he is good at this, I know he is. And I am very proud of him. I am proud of myself for managing our rather tricky family finances throughout that time. I am proud of my parents for their unfailing love and support. They really truly are exceptional people.

Sorry this is sounding like an award speech.

I guess this year proved that we still have much to learn as a family and as individuals. Did we do everything right this year? No. But we continue to learn and journey. The trick in life is not to think you are ever getting to a point where you have arrived or reached the height of wisdom. Cause as soon as you hit that spot you look up and see another mountain.

I am thankful. We have been richly richly blessed. Our family is healthy and intact. We have lived yet another year with each other, growing and learning.

I was telling Wes this morning that I am thankful God has placed him in my life. Life can be a troubled road and I have been blessed with a wonderful traveling companion. This is truly a blessing.

So, what does 2013 hold for us? No idea.

But bring it on, cause God is with us and he is steadfast and he will sustain.

Annual Christmas card

I have once again failed to send Christmas cards. So here is our virtual card. The photo session was rather painful as several of our children (all but Bronwyn) were not interested in being cooperative. At least we are all together!

We would again love to hear from you - so if you can leave us a greeting in the comments, even if you don't know us. Its a global village and we'd love to hear from you.

God bless you all this Christmas season. May you have peaceful, joyful and safe holiday.

Long weekend, sort of

Wes is taking tomorrow off. We haven't had a long weekend as a family in a very long time. So I am excited. Mari has school and we have to go for parent teacher interviews for the older two. But by 11:30 all that will be done and it will be all party for the Davis family.

I will make it my mission to take photos this weekend.

I am frantically trying to get caught up and organized for Christmas. I am normally way ahead  of the game. I think by this point last year I had all my presents and they were all wrapped and most that needed shipping were already shipped. This year... not so much.

I'm blaming the house project, although that excuse will only last so long.

We are having a quiet at home night tonight - just what the doctor ordered!