Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Ringing in 2014? Really? Already?

REALLY hard to believe that 2013 has come to an end. 
2014? Wow! Time is not standing still and each year seems to go by faster and faster!

We've spent the last few days in Idaho - trying to slow things way down. 




We took our annual sleigh ride. This year we planned ahead and made our reservation during daylight hours. 


Not so cold. Not so hungry.


A little time to enjoy!
Time to enjoy a drink or two...



….time together as a family


…and time to enjoy the view.

New Year's Eve day we decided to play in the snow...


or lack there of. 






Even with so little snow, we were able to sled, make snow angels and even make a snowman. 
(My camera ran out of batteries five minutes into our snow adventure.)
It was a fun afternoon regardless of the snow level. 


We had a quiet evening in to send off 2013.
Charlotte led the sleep brigade and I don't think anyone made it to twelve. At least I know I didn't!

I haven't yet reflected on 2013. I think I'm still recovering from Christmas.
While it felt like a "quick" year, I know each day was filled with love, hard work, appointments, commitments and family. 
We moved. Grace had her surgery. We traveled a bit. Stranger and Hiccup joined our crew - as did the chickens. Sewing projects were completed. Birthdays celebrated. The girls started piano…

Full and fun.
I am so very grateful!

When I woke up this morning, I found these words of wisdom in my inbox. 

As the year comes to an end and a new one lies ahead take time to: Cherish the words and memories of those who have left us. Embrace the sunrise. Marvel at the sunset. Wonder at the stars at night. Read. Look at the little things. Step back and take in the big picture. Give back. Be kind to yourself and others.  Do not count the days, make the days count. Treat your body well, good health requires effort. Never give up. Do something different.  Smile. Laugh at yourself. Respect others and yourself. Make new friends and reach out to old ones. Tell the ones you love, that you do.

Great words to kick off the new year, don't you think?

I wish you a Bountiful, Healthful and Happy 2014!