Santa arrived bearing excellent gifts for our family this year. The boys, of course, made out like bandits and were riding their new bicycles, scooters, and skateboards within no time. The older ones loaded up on clothes and electronics while I was estatic with my new Nikon camera, pandora bracelet and various items from Victoria Secret. Tommy had his new flat screen TV set up within an hour....funny how a new TV seems to motivate men! It was an upset this year with our annual family Christmas game. Miss Amanda thought she had it in the bag (for the 3rd year in a row); she studied the gifts under the tree all month. But it was Josh that was declaired the winner of the $75 bonus, while Amanda did win the $25 bonus to the bonus. Poor Samuel and Carter will never have a chance as long as Tommy plays for them!
As most of you know, my family owns two Carquest Auto Part Stores. I have spent the last 7 years managing the one in Austin. My parents have decided to move back to Colorado and retire for good, therefore we have sold the Austin store. I will be transfering to the other store, located in a small farming town 80 miles west of Austin. Since Marble Falls is in between, my commute to work will be the same; just in the other direction. It will be a big change from what I am used to but with this economy, I'm just happy that I have a job.
We come to the end of 2009 - Yes . . . a bit “bruised” by life, but perspective brings wisdom. This year has definitely been a unique year, full of “life-changing” events! But, some years just seem to stand out compared to all the rest. As we close 2009 and look forward to 2010, time is moving way to fast . . . and then, in other ways . . . the days are never-ending! However, through it all, I would like to “dig in my heels” with Father Time and slow down one particular part . . . my children's zealous push through Life. :) Somedays I have a hard time with the fact that my children are now 19, 16, 6 and 5 years old. Where did all those years go? Reguardless, I treasure all of our wonderful blessings . . . health, accomplishment, growth, purpose, childhood, family, laughter and love. And, yes, moments of sadness, challenges, disappointment and pain, but opportunities for blessings as well.
