2010 in review

2010 was a good year to the A family.  We had many ups, a few downs, and one of the lowests we've ever experienced.

Let's review!

January brought snow, and Marc had an eager helper.  Jack really, truly loves his daddy, and any chore is fun for him...with Dad.

February brought Jackson's 3rd birthday.  A train cake and a gathering of friends at his favorite place (the bounce house) proved to be a great day to be 3!

March brought a trip to see Jack's cousin Mattie to play for a memorable time. They played and laughed and enjoyed each other.  This day was so very special, as it was the last time Jack was able to see his beloved cousin.

April brought preparation!  We had a lot of fixing and "nesting" to do, as our days were growing short for the upcoming change....

May brought our beautiful Claire. The sweetest baby and wonderful little sister.  The perfect addition.

June brought heartache and caused our hearts to break.  We lost our precious niece, Mattie, to brain cancer.  At age 5, it hardly seemed fair.

July gave us long summer days, trimmed with grilling out, baby pools, and back yard fun.  Lounging on the deck became requisite, and routine.

August was full of digging in the sandbox and talk of fall. Plans for long weekends and lots of baby grins.

September took away our baby boy and handed us a preschooler!  We watched our hearts grow legs and close behind a classroom door.  Even if for only 2hrs and 30 min, twice a week....

October entailed pumkin patches, apple picking, and costumes.  A tiger can still be seen, creeping through the halls in our home...from time to time. 

November was the beginning of hustle and bustle for holiday preparations, and seemed shorter than ever.

December came and went, and left behind a mess of wrapping papers and ribbons, but didn't forget the feelings of generosity, love, and gratitude. 

We survived renovations (a new bathroom, a nursery, a roof, siding, and a new driveway!), gained new friendships, lost some loved ones, and learned a lot about living this year.  We had our hearts broken and had our hearts swell with pride.

Thanks to 2010 for all of our gifts, and welcome to 2011...this will be the best year yet.