Stealing in 2010- I've gotta do it!

Today during sacrament meeting, I took Alyssa to the mother's room so we could fight over the bottle vs the breasts (yes, I'm done nursing). It was quiet and I was enjoying listening to the testimonies shared. Suddenly, I recognized the voice of one of my dear friends and neighbors, Jen. As she shared a beautiful testimony, she mentioned that she appreciated the friend in the ward who allows her to go to the temple every week. For a brief moment, I found my mind starting to say, "Man- Jen has such the princess life where so many people, including her husband, allow her the time to do everything she desires...." In the next moment, I stopped myself and quickly celebrated the life which I embrace! It is not perfect, but it's mine. And do I have the same free time that other friends have? NO, but that is okay because my life is so blessed and I love it. And I certainly embrace it!

Embrace

I'm going to begin this 2010 year by stealing. I'm going to steal a word and an idea from one of my dearest friends, Rachelle. Last year, she shared with me how she was going to choose a word to live by for the year instead of making resolutions and she chose the word, "embrace." I loved the idea at the time, yet being 8+ months pregnant and in pain, the only words which came to my mind were "defeat" and "DJSJDJFJHAUHAUDHHS." Today, in the mother's room at the church, I couldn't get the word "embrace" out of my mind.

Embrace

So what do I want to embrace this year?

My husband, Dave! He is the world to me and I want to embrace every moment we spend together, whether in the thick of raising children or in the quiet moments of the day.

Taylor! I want to embrace her last years as a little girl before the "tween" thing sets in too much more! I want to embrace the fact that she loves to hold my hand when we go out together and loves to kiss me.

Jaxson! I want to embrace his open mind and his creative edge. I want to embrace his excitement of life and learning. I want to embrace the love he shows me and his family.

Austin! I want to embrace this year where his mind is still so open! I want to embrace every time he says, "Mom, I just love you! May I give you a kiss?" I want to embrace this phase of moving from a 3-4 year old son.

Alyssa! I want to embrace her last stages of a "baby" before the toddler phase begins. I want to kiss those little cheeks, teach her songs, read her books and film her little giggles. I don't ever want to forget her as a baby.

ME! I really do! I want some things for myself this year! I want to grow spiritually, mentally. I want to be a better neighbor and teacher.

"Embrace" is the word I'll live by this year. And embrace I will!

So there, you have it. Stealing in 2010. What a great way to begin the new year....