I know everyone says it...but holy cow, where did 2013 go?! Seriously, life is speeding by and I sometimes feel like I'm barely hanging on for the ride. Nevertheless, another year has come and gone. While reflecting, I can truly say that this particular year has been a defining time in my life. I have learned and grown through failure, loss, heartache and triumphs.
Over the past year...
...I have so loved watching Ethan and Micah (his cousin) grow in a close relationship. They have formed such a sweet, young bond at such a young age and it has been a true joy to watch. We've enjoyed sleepovers, trips to the Zoo, Chuck E Cheese, play dates, library time, amusements parks and countless other fun memories together. I wouldn't trade any of those lasting memories for the world.
...we had the opportunity to fly out to California and introduce Ethan to Matt's side of the family. It was a special and memorable time for us all. We even squeezed in a trip to Disneyland while we were there. Ethan was only 8 months at the time so he wasn't too sure what was going on. Little did we know his obsession with Mickey Mouse would so quickly ensue.
...we traveled up to Boston with my parents. My dad (the incredible athlete that he is) invited us to Boston while he ran the Boston Marathon. Strolling the cold and historic downtown area, taking a duck tour and gorging ourselves at Max Brenner's were a few of the highlights. On the day of the race Matthew, Ethan, my mom and I "posted-up" and waited for dad to run by. Remember, this was a marathon so we were sitting there for hours. Little did we know that we were sitting less than 100 yards away from hidden bombs. My dad finished his race about 30 minutes prior to the attacks. We were around the corner, past the finish line and waiting for my dad to shower when we felt the bombs detonate. My phone immediately started blowing up as I was unaware as to what was going on. A lady ran inside of the building and started telling us that there had been an explosion and "people's limbs are flying off." The city was in complete pandemonium and I remember being so scared. I hugged my family close that night as I knew we were lucky. It so easily could have been us...I will never forget this tragedy.
...we took our first family vacation and headed to Myrtle Beach. This was quite the adventure with an 8+ hour car ride each way. But alas, we made it and it was SO fun. Watching Ethan dig his toes in the sand and eat shovels of it at the same time were some of the highlights. Also, eating an ungodly amount of king crab legs...delish!
...Matthew and I discovered that we were expecting #2. We were thrilled, surprised and THRILLED! We kept the secret for nearly a month until I decided to let the cat out of the bag. Unfortunately, I did it a tad prematurely as God had different plans for our little family. Only July 4th, I miscarried at approximately 10 weeks. That was a truly painful moment in our lives but the Lord brought us through the heartache. I know we will see our little angel baby one day:)
...I decided to jump back into the theater world! I auditioned for Godspell and was casted! It was an intense and FABULOUS two months of my life. I made lasting friendships and got to enjoy one of my first loves. I have been scoping out my next opportunity for an audition this coming year.
...our little man turned 1!! We had a fun carnival themed birthday party complete with a photo booth:) Burgers, hotdogs, beer, popcorn, cornhole, party hats and a pinata were the highlights of the day. Ethan's birthday also brought another big milestone as he took his FIRST STEPS only 2 days shy of his big day. Luckily I caught it on camera!! Once he took those first steps he never stopped...and boy does he keep me on my toes!!
...Matt and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary with a mini trip to Pittsburgh! Man was that a fun trip!! While Ethan was being spoiled at Grandma and Grandpa Wasson's house, we were wining, dining and having a great time! While in Pittsburgh, we got to attend a Steeler home game! This was Matthew's 1st NFL game....AND WE WON!! It sure made for an awesome trip. After the game we had the privilege of running into the famous Franco Harris and were even able to grab a quick picture with him. We traveled up to the top of the Dusquene Incline and even hit up Primanti Brothers. It was an unforgettable trip. So happy to have had the opportunity to rejuvinate with my hubby.
This year brought many more memories...too many to mention in a journal/blog.
As we move into 2014, we are making some more big and life-changing decisions. All we can do is trust the Lord through the decisions and ask for your prayers of support:) Here's a toast to 2013 as we package away all the goodness that came with it.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
