This year was such an emotional roller coaster. I need 2009 to be quieter. More like the Small World ride — sweet, educational, fun for all ages. — than like a huge scary roller coaster.
On the plus side:
- Baby Josie, born healthy, still healthy
- Baby Josie gets 2 legal parents
- Noah thriving, in spite of a lot of challenges
- House sold, in spite of the insane market
- Good severance package
- Living conveniently to grandparents, extended family, and long-term friends
On the negative side:
- Losing my job
- Moving 800+ miles with an infant and an almost-3
- Leaving our wonderful church and day-care communities
- Renting (although the place is very nice)
- 2 feet of snow in our first month of living in Milwaukee
- Single parenthood, even though only temporary
In 2009, here’s what I’m hoping for:
I want my family to thrive in 2009. I want our careers to thrive — for both of us to be working in jobs we love and can imagine being in for 10+ years. I want our health to thrive. I turn 40 this year, and I want to turn 40 with a BMI in the normal range, and for the whole family to be active and healthy. I want our relationships to thrive — regular dates, time with friends, and time with family — both here and back east.
February is going to be a big month here. Jill will be here permanently 2/3, Noah turns 3 on 2/10, and our 6 year wedding anniversary is 2/22. After that, I want peace and uneventfulness through the spring. Maybe the whole entire year.

here’s to a totally BORING 2009!
I hear you, sister! With the exception of Baby Brother’s birth, I want to be able to think of 2009 as “The Year of Equilibrium.” No new variables, just capitalizing on what we’ve already got.