Since we are half way through the second week of 2008, I thought it an appropriate time to share my (Anne's) thoughts on 2007. Here are my thoughts......
1. Our Marriage
In March of 2007 we celebrated 10 years of marriage. At that point had known each other for over one third of our lives. What encourages us, is that over the past 10 (now almost 11) years, we have grown and developed in ways we never would have imagined, all because of the influence we have on one another. I believe our marriage is stronger today, than it was 10 years ago, and I'm convinced it will be even stronger when we reach the 20 year mark. In 10 years time we've...
...had 6 different 'homes'.
...had 2 children.
...made 2 major moves (from OH to NV to OR/WA).
...joined staff with Campus Crusade and held many multiple roles within the organization.
...bought our first home.
...allowed Copper, our boxer, to tag along with us most of that time.
2. Our Children
Last year, Alex turned 6 and Allison turned 4. Another major milestone was that they both started school. Alex started in the T1 (full-day kindergarten) program, and Allison is in preschool 3 mornings a week. They both have fantastic teachers, which helped make the transition simple for us. Plus, they've made great friends, and they both really enjoy going to school (which is the most important thing). I, now, have a whopping 8 hours a week of free time (in between running the shuttle to and from their schools), and for the first time in 6+ years we DO have to get up and get dressed EVERY day. It was an adjustment, but a good one.
3. Our Lifestyle
In April I finished my fourth marathon and in October Adam finished his second. Mine was of average speed, but Adam actually clocked in at an impressive 3hours and 22minutes. Most importantly, though, is that we continue to make health and fitness part of our family lifestyle. Both Alex and Allison enjoy being active, and on top of their karate and dance schedules, they too have participated in several 5k events of their own. They desire to play outside, ride bikes or go for walks/hikes more than spending time indoors even in the rainy, Pacific NW. Another 2007 benefit was that we had our large gravel driveway paved last April. This allows for outdoor play even if our yard is full of mud.
4. Our Travels
At times all our traveling can seem to be a burden, and to be honest, there are days when I feel that myself. However looking back, I am grateful for all we get to do and experience as a result of being on staff with Campus Crusade. In 2007 we journeyed to...
...Walt Disney World
...Lake Tahoe
...Colorado Springs
...Ft. Collins, Colorado
...Rocky Mountain National Park
...Silver Lake, Michigan
...The Tetons and Yellowstone National Park
...Olympic National Park
...and I'm sure the list continues. This does not even include any day trips to Seattle, Mt. St. Helens, the OR coast, Hood River, Multnomah Falls, etc. And, this list is just mine and the kids. Adam's is even more extensive including a trip to South Africa. I once had an acquaintance tell me the furthest she traveled one summer was to Janzten Beach (a shopping center less than 20 mins. from our house). Imagine that!
5. Technology
2007, for me, is definitely the year I became technologically advanced. I've enjoyed spending hours on the computer at a time. From blogging, to digitally formatting our pictures, to downloading music and creating playlists on my MP3 player, etc, etc., etc. I've especially loved the social networking that the Internet now provides. 2007 saw me spend a fair amount of time on Facebook. I've come to check that more regularly than my e-mail. My favorite part has been connecting with past friends from college, high school and even my youth. For me, its been a blast!
6. My Hobby
This is just a quick blurb to let you know I accomplished something this year. I am an avid scrapbooker, and in 2007 I was able to scrapbook all our pictures through the year 2005. All told, its over 1,000+ pictures that comprise 5 different albums. This really means nothing to you, unless you are also a scrapbooker, and I need to add that many, many domestic duties were neglected in order for me to reach this milestone. Let's hope I have 2006 finished by 2008. And, because of my advances in technology in 2007, I'm thinking most albums from here on out will be done digitally. It sure does save a lot of time!
7. Our Future
And, finally, I'm excited for what's to come. In 2004, Adam began to think about obtaining an MBA. Due to a role he had that year within Campus Crusade, he began to see that he was gifted in the areas of strategic planning, operations, and the like. He desired to develop those skills. Early in 2007, God gave him the green light to begin pursuing his MBA. His first step was to take the GMAT, so for nearly 7 months he diligently studied for this test. His hard work was rewarded! He scored an impressive 700! And, the Friday before Christmas, Adam received the best Christmas present. I will let him fill you in on all the details, but let's just say, this time, all his hard work PAID off. It was immeasurably more than we could have asked or imagined. We are looking forward to a GREAT 2008!
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