2008 In Review

In 2008, I gained more knowledge than a lay person should have about antibiotic resistant bacteria.

I lost my patience more often than I wish, but less than ever before.

I stopped worrying as much about the kooky Mayhems.

I started using my credit card for all purchases, and tracking my spending quite easily.

I was hugely satisfied by the family vacation--baby and kids on a plane with no problems!

And frustrated by MRSA.

I am so embarrassed that I didn't finish a novel for the first time in four years.

Once again, I wished for more time with my MacStewart clan.

Once again, I did not lose those last 5 lbs of baby weight.

The biggest physical difference between me last December and this December is my lovely scar! Said with sarcasm because of two doctors who didn't do what needed to be done thus leaving me in the hands of a surgeon.

The biggest psychological difference between me last December and this December is my fear of bacteria.

I loved spending time reading with the children and watching them grow.

Why did I spend even two minutes worrying about the kids in school? They really like it and do so well there.

I should have spent more time keeping things organized. The laundry room is a disaster and has been these past three months.

I regret buying birthday party hats. Almost no one wears them anymore.

I will never regret buying my yellow peep-toe shoes even though with that money I could have bought a lot of diapers!

I thought about writing way too much. I should have actually been writing.

I didn't sleep enough.

The house repairs drove me crazy.

Was the rain crazier than ever last year? Or was it me?

The most relaxing place I went was Paradise Island, Bahamas.

I feel so glad when I write that down. Everyone had a great time.

Why did I go to those meetings that reminded me of the hint of hopelessness that clings to public education?

The best thing I did for someone else was offer my help. I could have easily NOT offered.

The best thing I did for myself was give myself permission to let go of this year's novel. It was not easy, but I believe my sanity was maintained.

The best thing someone did for me was save my baby from ending up with a hideous scar. Dr. Wonderful is looked at with awe by his fellow pediatricians, too.*

The one thing I'd like to do again, but do it better, is plan family meals. Easier on the pocketbook, and the kids eat better when they know what to expect.

*Caryn self-published a book we wrote together, and dad and Uncle R helped with the parapet wall. Everyone who babysat. It's hard to choose just one thing.