Wow – what a year it’s been!

Alex – November 2008 (~20 months old)

 

Wow – what a year it’s been.  I would easily say that this is one of our most challenging years ever.  Let’s start with a brief recap:

 

1). Lance was laid off in November 2008 – totally surprised by this one!

2). Allison was laid off in April, but had to keep working until July. 

3). Lance found a new job in January (although, didn’t like it and thought he was going to get laid off again, but luckily found…) another new job and started in August.

4). Allison found a new job and started in August.

5). Alex started a new preschool in January after we had to pull him out of his old daycare because it was near Lance’s old job and we just couldn’t take him that far anymore.

6). But, then had to start another one in September after the owner decided to only offer part-time.  Whew!

7). Allison got pregnant, faster than expected, and knew she was pregnant on her first day at her new job!  Sounds great – but was actually very stressful.

 

Whew!  I couldn’t have predicted this year and the challenges we faced.  But, we knew there was only one way to get through it all – together.  There were many times when we didn’t know HOW we were going to get through it all.  I don’t have any secrets, just a day at a time, one problem at a time, sacrifice and compromise, encouragement and listening to each other, remembering what is actually important in life.  And that’s just what we did.  I would definitely say that we are more careful and conservative with our money, and we also know how lucky we are especially in this economy.  We have a house to live in, food to eat, company to share, and lots and lots of giggles to be had.  The hard times definitely make you appreciate the good times. 

Here’s to another year – what ever it  may bring!