Goodbye 2008!

Happy New Year! And what a happy new year it will be. Good riddance to 2008! 2008 has, by far, been one of the toughest years for Matt and I. However, even due to the "Detro family Recession of '08", we did have some great highlights. And those are what I am going to focus on. :)

Tyler: Jan of '08, Tyler was a 10 month old kid who couldn't quite walk yet. He has now developed into an amazingly smart 22 month old, who can spell his name, count to 14 (yeah, random, I know), and sing his ABC's, along with about 20 other songs. He talks non stop, loves to make up his own bowling games, loves horses and slides and being outside. He is a people pleaser, although watch out for his glare if he doesn't know you. He remains wary of strangers, but once he warms up, will make you smile.

He turned 1 back in February, learned to walk shortly after, started nursery, and luckily for me, still loves to snuggle. What a joy it has been to watch him grow and learn this year. We feel so blessed to have Tyler in our lives.

Jordyn: Wow, Jordyn has also had quite the year! She turned 3, finally potty trained, and has become a social butterfly. She got her first real bike, learned to write her name and loved nursery, although in two days she will start sunbeams! Ahh! She learned to love making phone calls (often without my knowledge) and playing dress up as a princess (her fave being Cinderella). She loves to play with her many friends, watch football and basketball with her dad, sing and dance, color, and more. It has been fun to see Jordyn grow up, and I often feel like she is not really a 3 year old, she seems much older than that. She is a great big sister, always looking out for Tyler. We love her, so does Ty!

As for Matt and I, well there were good times too. Matt was called as a ward clerk last March, and that has been a huge blessing for us. He loves his calling, and the bishop just loves him for his work and what he does. I was called to Enrichment committee, and while it keeps me on my toes, I love it. We were also able to take vacations this year to many family reunions, all around Utah and in to Colorado.

And amazingly, through the hardest times, we have found the true joy of our lives. We are happier than ever! We have really realized that nothing matters more than your family, your loved ones at home, your true character, and the Gospel. We have learned that the Lord will bless you and happiness will come if your foundation is solid. It is hard for me to explain the love and appreciation I have for Matt, for being my rock. He is amazing, and I feel so blessed to be married to him. And, I feel more grateful than I ever have for my family, especially my parents. They are wonderful, and have been a huge support to us. (love you guys!) I can't even write this post without getting emotional, gee I'm lame! :)

So, I guess 2008 may not have been so bad after all. :) We have come out stronger, wiser, and happier. But here's to 2009! Happy New Year!