The single act of chucking last year's calendar was such a release that I dare say my 2011 is already complete. 2010 was such a crazy mix of things I couldn't change no matter how hard I tried and those I tried to change but failed b/c I had no idea how to start. And the worst of all were those that I couldn't change b/c I had no control over them. (Those are the ones that I am the worst at accepting.) So basically, it's probably pretty safe to say that 2011 will be better simply by NOT being 2010.
We're off to a good start already on this January the first. We finally found a preschool willing to nurture and love our child instead of one desperately trying to find something wrong with him just to get funding for a 'labeled' student. We're out of the terrible three's and into the loving, hilarious, and more mature four's. Basically, we have our sweet, compassionate goof ball back. Who, by the way, has taken to calling me "Em". "Hey, Em? Can I have some water please?" I'm also known as "Emilie", "Honey" and my fav, "Feetie pie" (sweetie pie).
The other big change that guarantees this year will be better is a mother-in-law-free home. Having not only survived two years of living with my father but actually coming out of that experience completely unscathed, I don't think anyone could have predicted just HOW wrongly things would go by inviting MIL into our home. What was supposed to be a healing period for her turned into a test of our marriage that at times looked like we really were not equipped to pass. Never has the adage "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger" been more apropos. While she only physically stayed with us for 6 weeks, the emotional damage she created is only now, many months later, fading away. In these last months our almost 10 year relationship has taken some heavy blows. But our communication skills have improved immensely and our (okay, MY) tempers have tapered. I dare say we're starting to feel invincible.
Some of the other things that I know are going to make 2011 a better year are: the continued growth of friendship btwn my neighbors AK and JK; the amazing awesomeness that is my job and co-workers; and another year spent only 3 1/2 hrs away from my dad, his wife and their fabulously relaxing and welcoming home away from home.
Oh yeah, plus all the things I'm going to continue to make myself appreciate daily.
Today's appreciation: My life.
Happy New Year, friends. I love you all.
Great post, Em! I know just how difficult this past year has been for you (and Mike) -- you two should be very, very proud of yourselves for coming through and being stronger people for it. I know it wasn't easy, and I suspect most other couples wouldn't have been able to pull through it like you guys did.
ReplyDeleteAnd I know this wasn't the moral of your post, but I love that Grant calls you "Em." I think he should do that all the time. :)
Whaddya know, you are more tech savvy than I.
ReplyDeleteI think you did a great job reassuring G, and I hope he has his mom and dad around for a long, long time.
I hope 2011 is a wonderful year for you.
love,
K