My Word for 2018

My sister always sums up her year with a word. When she asked me what word described my year, I was stunned. After some thought, I decided that the word "SURPRISE" explains 2018 well.

Here are some surprises that caught me off guard and some drastically changed the course of my year:

• My Grandpa passed away unexpectedly in March. SURPRISE! This loss was more difficult for me than I imagined. It has also resulted in an added role and responsibility to be there for my grandma.
• Andrew's car broke down this summer and it wasn't fixable. Suddenly, we were in the market for a new car. SURPRISE! I'd been expecting his car to die since the moment we bought it, but it lasted years longer than anticipated. If we had to go through the process of buying a car again, I think we would put less money down on the car. We have been trying to play catch up ever since we purchased the car. We now also have a car payment which isn't my fav.
• We finally went on a cruise. SURPRISE! This has been something we've talked about doing for 6 years. I'm shocked it happened! It was worth the wait.

After experiencing the loss that I did this past year, I have learned to cherish the time you have with your family, and always remember to say "I love you."

We were able to spend lots of time with family this past year and I'm grateful for that. 

--In January, we went to St. George with my parents, so my dad and I could run the St. George Half Marathon together.

--In February, we traveled to Spokane to be there for our niece, Claire's, "No More Cancer Party!"

--In April, we went to Disneyland and enjoyed relaxing in CA at my parent's condo.

--In August, we camped near Spokane with Andrew's family which shows you how important family is to me-- I went CAMPING with a toddler.

--In September, Andrew was able to go kayaking with his brothers on their annual trip.

--In October, I spent some time in Leavenworth, WA with Andrew's sisters and mom relaxing.

--In November, we went on a cruise to the Bahamas!

--In November, we also flew to Spokane for one final Thanksgiving hurrah before Debbie leaves on her 18 month mission.

We don't plan to travel much this year as we intend to save money to visit Debbie in Barbados. We're also having a baby in July which complicates travel and life in general.

As Andrew and I looked back over some goals we made in 2018, we were both a little shocked at how many of our goals were forgotten. This year I'm going to do a better job at having my goals visible.

So far, some of my goals for 2019 are going smoothly. (knock on wood) Some have already fallen off my radar though... My main goal for the year is to renew my teaching license which expires in June. This isn't necessarily a fun or easy process, but something I find valuable. I feel secure in knowing that if needed, I could resume my career as a teacher and earn money.

Even though 2018 wasn't what I anticipated and was full of SURPRISES, I love my life and look back on my year with fondness.

We'll see what 2019 has in store for me...