Welcome 2017

With the start of the New Year, I wanted to try to get in the habit of writing things down again. I love being able to document what happens to me and our family so I can look back on it, and I did not do so well in 2016. So, as a wrap up and to start the year off right, here is what I remember, and learned the most in 2016.

First off we gained two new full time students in 2016. Dylan started kindergarten, which taught me that time is so very precious and the time we have to be the only one in their world does not last long. Ellis also became a full time student when he started a new career path and he has learned that time management is important.

Lauren became a middle schooler this year, and with this I learned that kids become more independent and have their own thoughts, idea, and responsibilities and you are not really a part of. You go from being head coach, to a cheerleader.  You might get a consulting position from time to time, but for the most part, you are on the sidelines. Lauren sends her own emails to the teachers, she tells me when things are due and what I need to do. It’s great to see her taking responsibility for her own education and I’m thrilled she is doing so well. Again, time is precious.

Aaron turned 9 and started 4th grade. He also graduated from speech and does not have to go anymore. He was thrilled and I can see his confidence growing all the time. He still loves soccer and I love that he has found something he loves. I learned that I’m grateful for his “coaches’ that help him to gain confidence and that luckily he still lets me be one of them, for now.

Dylan, well he had a lot of first this year. He started kindergarten and he got to go to St. Louis for the first time. He also got to go to the circus for the first time. That kid loves life and learning. He is not afraid to speak his mind and share his ideas. He is brave and tough, but is also compassionate and loving. I learned Dylan loves to dress up and be a character. He also tried T-ball for the first time and got to play with is cousin. He still lets me fully be his coach and I will take that job as long as I can. Time is precious.

For me, in 2016 I became a mom with all her kids in school. It is not easy, or fun, or relaxing to have all your kids in school. It is hard, exhausting and stressful. I also learned that you have to just do your best, spend as much time as you can with them, be organized, and just be there. I also became an Aunt and found out I would be again in 2017, and it will be another nephew. I can’t believe that my Colton will already be 1 year old in a couple weeks. Time is precious.

Happy new year.