2012

I've been contemplating what 2012 has brought our family, my first reaction is a difficult year of learning.  I spent a lot of the year uncomfortable; the first with horrible morning sickness, then carrying two healthy boys to 38 weeks while caring for two healthy toddlers around the house, and learning how to care for our new household once the babies did come.  Yes, it hasn't been the easiest year, but it's been one of the most rewarding.  Shall we recap.  (along with some pictures from throughout the year to prove my points)

Jacob got a steady job in February.  One we never thought he'd get, it's near perfect.  He's been really busy, but for the most part he's enjoyed what he's been doing; which makes all the difference.

Steven turned into such an adorable boy.  He is still so caring and sweet for the most part.  We've had our struggles with whining, not always listening, but he's grown up into quite the little boy.  I can't believe he'll be going into primary next week.  He also learned to share a room with his brother, Christopher, which was rocky at first but has been a joy for Jacob and I to watch.  We love shutting the door and hearing the conversations and games they play together.  It's priceless.

Christopher seems to have grown the most.  He had his first birthday in 2012.  He couldn't walk, couldn't even crawl, couldn't talk, and now I have to remind myself he's not 3 like Steven.  He loves to play with Steven and will often rub it in Steven's face when he gets to do something he knows Steven likes to do.  "I say the prayer, Steven.  I say the prayer."  Christopher is the cutest almost two year old we know.  He is so smart and cute and knows how to use that to his advantage.  I love his run that has a little skip in it, and the twirling game he loves the play. (rolly rolly sandwich)  His smile can melt anyone's heart, then when he opens his mouth to talk to you, you're a puddle in no time.

William and Ryan started out the year the size of the head of a pin and now are 14 lbs (I'm guessing they have their 4 month check-up in a week and a half.) of pure precious love.  We were so blessed in the safe pregnancy and delivery that I had, and the health they continue to have.  I often stop and stare at them, captivated by their adorable smiles and angelic faces, I feel very blessed to be their mother.

This year has been a HUGE growing experience for me.  Not only did I get this big physically, but I feel my heart and understanding grew enormously this past year.  I've come to understand what matters, what to not stress over, and what embrace.  I still have a long way to go, but I'm happy with the progress I've made.  Now if only I can be as pleased with the progress of my physical appearance  but that will just have to wait till next year.

I was worried about this year and the year coming.  I knew it would be rough having new born twins along with my other energetic boys, but it's hasn't been nearly as bad as I thought.  Hopefully next year will prove to be true as well.  The divorce rate goes up by 50% for those with twins, and I can believe it; you're kind of running on fumes and survival mode.  I'm so glad I chose a partner who would be my better half through it all.  I truly feel like we are a team, more so than I ever have.  During the hard times you find out what you're made of, and our marriage and friendship is pretty strong.  I'm so grateful for that.

So to recap:  At first glance all I think of is the raw emotional ups and downs we went through, but when I take a deeper look I see blessing beyond compare. We were given everything we could have wanted:  healthy arrival of William and Ryan, health of Steven and Christopher, friendship and love from those around us as well as within our little family, happiness along the way, wonderful steady job, and now a home.  I'm excited to see what this new year will bring, though after the whirlwind of this year I hope it's a lot of normal living.