According to Maryann: December 2013

Good bye 2013...

My year started out great. Rang in the New Year with my husband & Monster watching Ryan Seacrest's Rockin' New Year's Eve Show. We toasted, kissed, hugged, and of to bed we went.

After much planning, only Stacey & I ended up going to Cancun, Mexico and we had a blast. We made a pledge that every February we would go on a girls only vacation. February 2014 it will once again be Stacey & I. I was a little disappointed because there were at least 8 people that said they were interested but when it came time for the deposit - only Stac and I came through. I know we'll have a blast again :-) We're pros now!

My Dude & I celebrated our 5 year anniversary. I surprised him with a weekend getaway that comprised of a night just outside of Buffalo, a day at Niagara on the Lake, and sight seeing in Niagara Falls. His facial expressions and enthusiasm spoke volume. I know he loved it. He also got his license (yay/long story) & a car! No more waking up at dawn for me. Praise The Lord - because without Him none of this would have taken place.

We also went to Washington DC when we took Hannah home who came up for the summer. That was an adventure. I had never been to DC before. Next year, I'll be needing better walking sneakers.

There were some heartbreaks & sadness in 2013 - it wasn't all wonderful but I'm not going to focus on those events. We live and we learn. One things for sure - never again!

I've been having monthly girls only get togethers. There were a few times that I almost scrapped the entire idea but the few faithful ones kept me going. Some would say yes and not show up (not even a phone call). Some miraculously 'forgot' and that makes me laugh. I say that because those that have been invited AND a part of, know that I'm always sending reminders whether it's through FB or texting. I will continue having the events & whoever shows - shows. When the invites stop altogether please don't wonder why.

Professionally and academically I've been blessed. I'm graduating May 2014. {Save the date graduation party 5-10-14}. There are exciting things coming that can't be shared just yet...but I truly have been blessed. I'm excited about what God has planned for me. For a minute there I flirted with the idea of getting my Master's. After much thought and prayer, that will not be happening. I need to be true to myself and getting a Master's degree was never a goal or dream of mine. Pursuing my Bachelor's degree has been a goal and I am thankful that God has provided and that goal turned into a plan and the plan into a reality. I will say this professionally speaking, I will get my notary and I will continue to enhance my skills and the learning will never stop. If God ever puts it in my heart to pursue a Master's - then let it be. Until then, however, I am content.

I turned 40 this year. Yay! In addition to having a photoshoot for myself by the talented Colleen, I celebrated with several friends...but nothing could top, My darling's surprise of a bed & breakfast stay at Niagara on the Lake and it was beyond amazing. Oak Haven was quaint, and Dennis and Christine were absolutely great! I honestly don't know why people, especially women, fret getting older. It's a blessing-be thankful. For my 45th birthday I will be celebrating both my 45th birthday & 10 yr anniversary in the glorious islands of Tahiti, Mo'orea, and Huahine. The research and plans have begun!

There were some things that were not accomplished like getting out of this apartment & into a house, losing the amount of weight that I wanted, but I managed to drop a few pounds so I'm overall thankful for that...having my Hannah move back home...but what has been accomplished has been wonderful! Traveling, car, paying off some debt, good grades, a roof over my head, food on the table, turning 40, surprises, promotions, a clear vision of my future, new friendships...rekindled friendships, and growing closer to God...and truly knowing He will never forsake me!

2014 I'm ready! The best is yet to come. Happy New Year!