Giving 2008 the boot

Good-bye 2008.

Though there were some good moments this year, this wasn't the greatest year on memory. In fact, I think most would agree this year was pretty lame.

2009 has to be better. It be better immediately, at the stroke of twelve, but eventually things will get better for many of us.

I have my grapes ready. I'll be up for the New Year - PST! (I don't care that it was midnight hours ago in New York.)

And though I complain, most annoyances didn't touch Amelia and Diana. There may have been times when we couldn't afford this or that, but in general this was a fun year for the girls.

Amelia and Diana loved going to Disneyland during the holiday season and recount their memories often. (Diana never forgets to mention that we had popcorn in Tomorrowland, some of the best ever.)

The girls had a great Christmas, Amelia got everything she wished for, and Diana was thrilled that Santa's reindeer found our house after she left a sparkling trail on the front lawn Christmas Eve.

For me, 2009 is going to start with a diet. I know it's better to say, "lifestyle change," but the first phase of this plan is a diet, plain and simple. Right now my refrigerator is full of sweet treats, but beginning tomorrow I'll be enjoying a few days' worth of whole grains and fruit.

In 2009 I'd like to continue searching for California historical markers. This is something I've really enjoyed this year that didn't cost much and taught all of us a lot about the history of our most excellent state. I'd also like to write my first children's book. And then there are the standard promises: to lose weight and exercise more.

Most importantly, I just want 2009 to be a helluva lot better than 2008 was, for all of us.

Lisa

P.S. These photos were taken of the girls today at a local mall. As you can see by their faces, they don't care how much our home has been devalued. And they love mommy, no matter what she weighs. I guess this is a wonderful time to be a child.