Another year has flown by, leaving it’s footprint in history. Another tick in the wall, another ring on the tree. A little older and a little wiser, I feel empowered and welcome the challenges of the coming year.  I would like to take a few moments to point out the most memorable highlights of this year.

• I was able to see two good friends from Florida, when they came to visit me earlier in the year. I saw Brad and Heather and loved spending quality time with them.
• I was able to witness the inauguration of the nation’s first black President. That will always be a major historical event in our history and I feel proud to have been a part of it, living here in our Nation’s Capital.
• My niece, Krystal spent her entire summer with us.  We hadn’t seen her in years and it was nice to play catch up. She got to spend time with my sisters and create memories that will forever be cherished.
• I experienced the Grand Canyon, The Hoover Dam and Las Vegas for the first time, all in one week! Spending my best friend, Lisa’s, 30th birthday with her was exciting for me. And, I will always keep those pictures of us posing with the Chippendale Dancers. Wink Wink
• Dave and I received our passports and traveled out of the country for the first time this year. We traveled to Nassau, Bahamas via Carnival Cruise Lines and what a trip it was! I definitely want to go back someday.
• Using Facebook, I was able to find and reconnect with an aunt and cousin that I had thought would be lost forever. I can’t wait for the day I’ll  see them in person again.
• The best part of this year (hands down) has been the adoption of our beautiful baby girl, Annabelle.  She has been so sweet and fits so well into our little family. Having her and Jack to come home to every day has got to be the most wonderful feeling in the world. I love them both dearly and will always appreciate the time I have with them and David.

In the coming year, I hope to travel more, reconnect with more old friends, make new lasting friendships, and pay off the rest of some old debts. Ideally, I’d like to start saving for a down payment on a house, but we’ll see what time and the perilous economic stability of our nation brings us. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Hug a friend. Kiss a lover. Give your change to the Salvation Army volunteers, no matter how annoying their bells are. Make time, don’t waste it.

Merry Christmas,

Brandi