Happy New Year

Today as Jon was driving me to work we talked about tonight and what we would like to do to celebrate the new year, and it occurred to me that I would rather stay home and spend a quiet evening with Josie in bed, than try to go celebrate with friends or family with a cranky baby. All of a sudden I felt old. Well, my quiet evening started when Jon went to bed early (he worked the grave shift last night, and then watched Josie all day), I then put Josie to bed and took a long bath and read a book...and then Josie woke up. She is now sitting next to me playing with her doll, and I am so happy that I am "old". I live a comfortable, happy life with a wonderful family, and my best friend as my husband. So in honor of the end of 2009 I want to take some time to remember what happened this year, and show my gratitude for what I do have.

At the beginning of the year, Jon was laid off from Enterprise-Rent-A-Car, but then shortly got a job with Chrysalis, an independent living program for mentally and physically challenged individuals. He works in a house where three guys live. He likes his job, most of the time, and since the hours are mostly evenings a weekends, it has been a blessing. In September he started his Senior year of college at BYU, he is extremely anxious to graduate in April. I am so proud of him for his hard work and persistence in his education. In August Jon became a daddy, and took on full responsibility. His fatherhood became official when Josie was 1 week old and left her stamp of approval for Jon as her daddy by pooping all over him. He is a wonderful and loving dad and he has been so willing to take her to his classes, and work grave shifts so we don't have to get a baby-sitter.

Josie was born on August 2nd. She came into the world at 9 lbs 2 oz and she has been growing like a weed ever since. She has quite the personality, and she is one of the happiest babies. If you are ever feeling blue, you just have to talk to her and she will give you one of her contagious smiles, and talk back to you. About a month ago she decided that she didn't want to drink from a bottle anymore. We tried many different nipples, but it's a no-go! This is a problem since I work 10 hours a day (M-Th). But somehow we have managed, and again it makes it a little more bearable with her happy attitude. Josie loves to talk and experiment with her voice (even the high pitched screams). She is almost sitting up by her self, and we have started feeding her rice cereal this past week, and she loves it.

This whole year for me has been devoted to Josie. Between being pregnant, giving birth, and then caring for her, I feel like have haven't done much else. I am very grateful for the fact that I had a healthy pregnancy, and I was able to give birth without complications, and on top of all of that Heavenly Father gave me the most beautiful, happy, and precious spirit to raise.
I have been working for the State of Utah for 2 years now, and although my job is frustrating at times, I am very grateful for my job and the fact that I can provide for my family. Because of my position I see TONS of Utah families that struggle with paying bills, personal relationships, and just life in general. This is an odd blessing in disguise, because I always come home so grateful for Jon, Josie, my family, my home, and the life I had growing up.

Thank you everyone for being such good friends and a good support. Thank you for helping us in our times of need. Thank you for being such good examples. Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing you lives with us. We love you, and look forward to spending more years with everyone.

** Well I have finally calmed the dogs down from all the New Year fireworks, and I think it is time for me to celebrate by going to bed!
** I just realized that 8 years ago from tonight (this morning) Jon and I had our first kiss! :D
** I have some super cute videos and pictures to post, but it is too late and I will try to post them soon.