The one thing I did plan was to have a baby. Ricky and I decided that in vitro fertilization was the right choice for us. This is what I focused my time and energy on for the first several months of 2012. I put everything else on the back burner. After many doctors appointments, shots, and medications later it did not work. It took a toll on my emotions, and I just kind of went with the flow of whatever happened next in life. Work, family events, whatever...I went through the motions to get through it. So there's that.
Moving into the summer, I had two opportunities to travel to places I had never been before. They were both work related, but of course I took time to see the sites!
First I went to Washington, DC. I really enjoyed this trip, and I'd like to go back. I was able to see several historical monuments, but for a short period of time.
The second place I went was New Orleans, LA. It was SOOOOO hot and humid there. It was a cool trip because I got to go with my teacher friends. Here's a couple of pics from there. :)
Then came fall. It was rough for me. I took on an extra job, which took up all my free time, and when I wasn't working on it I was stressing about it. I'm thankful for the opportunity, and equally thankful it's over!
On August 24, my grandmother passed. She joined my mother in heaven on the same day my mom entered. It was a very emotional time. A good thing that came of it was some very special time with family that I don't get to see much. We also got the rare everyone is here and dressed up pic.
EDIT: I almost forgot to mention that I raised $1300 for Race for the Cure! Most of that amount came from the sale of this t-shirt.
Time for the Holidays!
My family gathered at my Grandmother's house for Thanksgiving. It was nice to cook in her house again and I think she would have loved the thought of us being there. A highlight for me is that I taught my niece how to make the deviled eggs. I love spending time with her!
My Christmas holiday was really great. I got to spend several days with my husbands family as well as mine. A highlight with the Thompson's was that we took a big family pic with Santa. I loved it!
A highlight with the Jackman's was that we gathered at my Grandmother's house again, and my Dad was able to give out some Christmas gifts that were very meaningful to him.
As I began writing this post, I noticed that it started out sounding like a big pity party. The deeper I got into the post I was reminded of something that I already knew. The highlights of my year all involve my friends and my family. Especially family.
I have not thought out my plans for 2013 yet, but I do know that I will cherish the time I get to spend with my family.
