Saying Good-bye to 2009

Wow, that was scary. I almost titled my post; Saying Good-bye to 2008. I'd even thought of a clever rhyme with eight. But instead of feeling smart, I feel like 2 years just blew past me. I wanted to put together a video slideshow to recap the year, but before I got to March I had way too many photos. So instead, here is my shortened list of highlights instead.

In January, we said good-bye to Sarabeth, as she donned her wings and ventured in to college dorm life.


In February, we said good-bye to Christopher & Lauren, as the newlyweds embraced the challenge of living & teaching English in South Korea.


In March, Hilary and I celebrated her birthday in Arizona. I had a birthday too and learned to Skype.

In April, we said good-bye to wheat gluten, and began the journey of eating gluten-free, as this was the month Elisabeth was diagnosed with Celiac Disease.


In May, Michael and I went on a much welcomed trip to North Carolina. We fell in love with the beach and islands that don't allow cars. I could get used to driving a golf cart to the local cafe for breakfast on the beach. Christopher & Lauren visited China.


In June, I attended the circus with Ethan & Christina. We also had the pleasure of hosting Michael's niece, Rachel for the summer.


July was a month of family time; both here and in Arizona

August ended our summer of late night puzzle building and Hilary began her senior year of high school.

September

October was a month for rewards, travel, and more beach time. Disneyland with my parents, Ethan, Christina, & Elisabeth. Christopher and Lauren celebrated their 1st anniversary abroad.


In November we hosted a surprise 60th anniversary party for Michael's mom and dad.

In December we said our final good-byes to my father-in-law; a wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is greatly missed.