Reflections of 2016

Wow! What an interesting year 2016 has been. As I look towards the New Year, I always try to reflect on the last 365 days. Where I have been, who I have been with, what has happened, how I've grown. 

I feel like the beginning of 2016 was a time for personal growth. I felt challenged with my fertility, and being the controller and planner I am, it was not easy.  

In the past, if I ever wanted something, I would almost always get it. And get it right away (a job, a dog, you name it!). I don't know if it's "youngest child syndrome" or what, but I have always been pretty lucky (and a little driven and determined too!).

So when pregnancy wasn't the answer, and God didn't open that door, I felt totally defeated. I almost became a little depressed. Each day had its ups and downs, but I feel like my down days outnumbered the ups. 

I don't really know what kept me trying. I never stopped fighting and kept looking for answers, even if they didn't solve the problem right away. I am so glad I didn't give up, because I sit here today, 18 weeks pregnant, and feel so incredibly grateful. 

If I were to talk to myself one year ago, I would say, "Keep going! Keep trying. Find the positive even when everything else feels negative. Be an advocate for yourself and do not give up. What you have been praying for is just around the corner and His timing is perfect."

September 6, 2016: This little miracle line turned into...

September 30, 2016: A little, beautiful yolksac...

October 13, 2016: An adorable, dancing jellybean....

November 8, 2016: A pursed-lip little baby!

In the spring of 2016, we welcomed a furry addition to our family. Winnie, or Wooski as we call her, has been quite a little bundle of fun. (I'm shaking my head as I write this, reflecting on my morning of reluctantly chasing her through the snowbanks.) She is a ball full of energy, but also finds time to relax with her brother, Cal. (They are both snoozing away on the couch as I type.) 

We took Wooski to puppy training class this summer, and we have taught her how to sit and lay down. Her newest trick is dancing alongside her brother. Last week, we did not crate her while we were at work and she did awesome! No accidents or chewed furniture (as far as I've seen!).  I am really proud of her and how far she has come!

In the summer, Seth and I traveled to Boston, went to the Minnesota State Fair (twice!), saw Metallica in concert, celebrated a few (six!) weddings, spent time with lots of family and friends, and traveled to the cabin a few weekends. 

My mom met a new guy and he is great. He is really good to her. This is very exciting for my sister and me, because ever since my dad passed away, she seemed really lonely. This new man in her life has brought her a lot of happiness and it is so good to see my mom happy. 

This fall, my Grandpa Fred passed away. We had just celebrated his 97th birthday. He lived such a great life and left an even better legacy. I will miss him very much, but know that he is in Heaven with my grandma, dad and uncle smoking a Muriel (he quit in the early 90's, so I'm sure he's treating himself) and hunting some deer. 

I am getting antsy to start on the baby's nursery. We have slowly started to purchase items for the little dude (or dudette) and I cannot wait to deep-clean the room, paint and organize. We are waiting (Seth-gladly, Me-impatiently) to work on the nursery until we find out the gender. January 7 cannot come soon enough!

Goals for next year: 

1. Write more on the blog. Green Olives, I have neglected you this year!
2. Become a Momma.
3. Take time each day to be grateful for what I have.

Here is to 2017! Cheers!