2009 has got to be better than 2008...

For the first time in 13 years of marriage Jim and I went out on New Year's Eve. Nic spent the night with Grandma & Grandpa while Jim, Sophie and I went to a gathering at our friends' Bob & Jodi's house. It was so nice, several couples and some old friends to ring in the new year with. Many of the people there were former employees of AT&T, recently laid off in the autumn with very little notice. Knock wood, Jim is still employed and we haven't heard anything about layoffs. In such stressful circumstances for these people it was nice to spend time having fun, playing cranium and eating treats and goodies. Bob & Jodi are new friends to us, but awesome people and I'm glad to have gotten to know them. We had a blast laughing and trying to learn to play Euchre and just generally enjoying the evening together. For the first time in a long time I was awake at midnight and shared a New Year kiss with my sweetie.

So, 2009 has to be better than 2008. After seperating many times in the past couple of years I think Jim and I are on the right track and going to stick it out. If Jim and I can both stay employed for 2009 our financial situation should continue to improve. Nicolas is doing the best he can, but to see him gain and achieve new things this last year before high school would be wonderful - and I'd love to see Sophie grow in church and grow in herself as well.

The tree and decorations are down and put away, the kids go back to school tomorrow and hopefully life will just stay on the smooth path it is on now.

Happy New Year to everyone near and far - may your 2009 be better than your 2008 - whether 2008 was rough or wonderful!