reflection of 2011

I thought since we are mostly all sick in this house, and that we are just having a tv day, that I would reflect a little on 2011.

2011 was a good year for all of us. We did many things as a family, including another trip to Disneyland. Plus many day trips to Riley park, and Calaway park. We welcomed Sugar Bear into our family for mothers day, and got our house to the way we like it!

For Bryce, the year started with him starting to talk, and walk a bit better! In 2011, he got a big boy room, with some sports wall borders, and grew into a big boy by growing a ton (we carry id for him because no one believes that he is only 2!), he also started potty training and does VERY well. He did take a swimming class, but would rather just play in the pool, but at least he got over his fear! He had many fears in 2010, like swings, and well, pretty much everything. But 2011 showed us a different boy, he has no fear, wants to try everything, and will even do things that Danika will not do- including slides by himself. We found this out at Tommy K Play when he went down the huge slide by himself while I was getting ready to take him and Danika down with me! For Bryce's second birthday, we celebrated at the house, with a hockey theme, he is a big sports fan! He also really likes spiderman and Cars (the movie stuff).

For Danika, the year started with her taking some gym and swim classes, and then some summer camps which she loved! She really enjoyed our trip to Disneyland because this time she was able to remember it all, and she got to meet all the princesses- her Oma and I took her to brunch at Ariel's Grotto and she loved ever minute of it. She over came some fears of rides there, and had a blast! She has grown more independent, trying many things for herself! She also enjoys playing by herself in her room, with her my little pony's (boy do I wish I saved mine!), barbies, Strawberry shortcake and princesses- as well as her newest addition- Lala Loopsy! She loves playing with her friends, and helping take care of the younger kids- particularly Neely and Brooklynn! Danika also started preschool, and is loving that too. She definitely enjoys the school days more than being at home! She is also in Dance, which is her most favourite thing to do. She is always singing and dancing around. We can't wait to see what she has learned at her recital in June!

Brett has spent 2011 keeping busy! Not only with work, which it does seem like he is always doing, but he has also been working on his fish tank in the basement. I am happy to say that as of just before Christmas, the bigger tank is up and running and the smaller one is out of my living room! With doing the fish tank, also came starting to develop the basement. He loves doing things like this, and has done a great job. Now we just have to find time to go through all of our accumulated junk! Brett is still working for xpan, which has been great. They also had a great Christmas party this year, they took all of us to a drag show. And while we were all a bit scared, it was the best night out we have had in a long time! Brett also started working for another guy in 2011. It was a web design, but has turned into more of a part time job as well. So, between working for his clients, and the basement- fish tank included, he has been busy- and that is how he likes to be! Although- I think if I asked him, he would say the best part of 2011 would be the trips to Calaway park. Each time we went, I could see the joy and excitement on his face, going on rides and playing games with the kids!

And as for me, well 2011 brought me back to a normal world. I started working again in 2011, which was great. It proved to be a bit difficult at times, but I think that we have figured that out now. It is different from before, because I have to work in school- I have never done school runs before. But, it is figured out now. I also got a new computer, and have really enjoyed making little videos of things that we have done. I also had the chance to take the kids on their first road trip. In June, we flew out to Abbotsford to visit my mom in White Rock. We stayed there for a few days and then drove back with her, stopping to visit family along the way. It actually went better than I thought! And in September, my mom, aunt and I went to Vegas for a girls week! It was GREAT! It also gave me the courage to leave the kids for a holiday, so much that I surprised Brett for Christmas with a trip for him and I to go to San Francisco in March! In health, I am doing great. I go for phlebotomy's to help with my iron level, and was going to my doctor once every 3 months.

What else did 2011 bring- well we got a new car- a Matrix. We do love it. We raised a bunch of money for the light the night walk- with help of many great friends. We have figured out a good budget for us- with we have been trying to do for many years now! And, life finally seems to be where it needs to be! We are all happy!



Now, here is to 2012, may the memories and joy be bigger than 2011!