Happy New Year!

Usually at this time of year, we look forward to our new goals and resolutions.  However, my mother-in-law had the unusual perspective to look back on the past decade and reflect on her blessings.  As I read her list, it was amazing to see how full ten years can be; but at the same time, seem like "just yesterday". 

Here are some of the things that have blessed us over the past 10 years. (In totally random order)

-Lauren was born.
-All three kids were baptized.
-Cade received the Priesthood.
-We built our home.
-We all had the chance to visit Alaska numerous times to enjoy family and nature.
-Between Ryan and I, we lost 3 grandparents, but are blessed by our knowledge of the Plan of Salvation.
-My parents moved home from Alaska.  It was great having a place to visit, but much better having them here!  (Thank goodness we still have Cortney up there!)
-Cade's sports teams won 3 State Championships, with the lessons of hard work, teamwork and dedication.
-Gained 2 brother-in-laws, 1 sister-in-law, and 10 nieces and nephews.
-I earned my Master's degree (more like a miracle!)
-Ryan and I celebrated our 8th-17th Anniversaries.
-Syd graduated from 8th grade as the Valedictorian developing the work ethic that will serve her throughout her life.
-I served in various Church callings, among them Den Mother, Counselor in YW, and Primary President (twice).  In each one I've been blessed to develop relationships with new people as I've learned new skills and lessons of my own.
-Ryan killed (among other things):  a desert bighorn sheep, an elk, a Dall sheep and a buffalo.  I may not call them blessings, but he sure would!
-The kids and I went to Disneyland 3 times.  If Ryan had gone with us, he would have considered this eternal damnation.  I, on the other hand was blessed to enjoy my kids.
-I found new friends and reconnected with old ones.
-(Hopefully) I gained a little more wisdom, a little more patience and a little more kindness.

As I've read through my list I've realized that many of these things are the "big ticket" items that mark the time in our lives.  However,  I know that each day I am blessed with simple yet profound experiences.  The sacred chance to raise these kiddos of mine; the beautiful relationship that I share with Ryan; the wonderful extended family that I have; the friends that surround me;  the opportunity I have to teach children both at work and in the church; and finally, the eternal and enduring invitation I have from Christ to "Come Unto Me".