Looking Back to the Future

Anyone following my blog knows what a rollercoaster my life has been over the past 4 years.  The biggest benefit of this writing experience for me is that I am able to look back over time and see how far I have come with some insight into the possibilities for my future.

As I head into the final month of the year I am going to enjoy this Christmas by just counting all my blessings.  Who needs expensive gifts when you feel content within your heart?   Afterall, it wasn't that long ago when I was the closest I have ever been to bankruptcy and unsure of how I was going to pay any of my bills.  As life would have it an opportunity presented itself that was not only good for me, it provided me the chance to improve the lives of others. 

So let me take a moment to actually look at some of the blessings this year has brought.

•  My house did not sell...a blessing in disguise
•  Income opportunity appeared
•  Enjoyed a week in Ontario
•  Got two awesome housemates!
•  Met my new grandson Jaxx...perfect
•  My health did not let me down when the going got tough
•  My kids are in happy relationships
•  The house is warm and cozy
•  Brooke moved back here and found full time work

To celebrate the Christmas season I have decorated a tree and the stairs...looking very warm and inviting with a nice fire going at night.  Of course no holiday season is complete without a bunch of yummy baking to give away to some of my closest friends.  Britni is looking forward to helping with this and I know Billy will love delivering the tasty packages as much as I do.

This is my build up to Christmas 2012...it's sure to be a great one!  As for looking to the future, I now have some definite goals to reach and look forward to.  A trip home with everyone as soon as the weather clears in the new year...hoping for April, some more home improvements and lots of happy days!  Simple and attainable...my kind of goals!  Merry Christmas!

Better Late than Never

What an exciting two months it has been.  October began with my daughter Brooke moving back down here with me and she brought along my son's girlfriend and my new baby grandson with her for a two week visit.  How absolutely amazing it is to be a part of my son's life again and to have the opportunity to get to know Brittany and Jaxx.  He is such an adorable little guy (I suppose every grandmother thinks that of their grandchildren).  It was also heartwarming to see that Brad has a terrific girl in his life now.  She is very grounded and sensible, a treat to visit with!!  Their two week visit flew by and in no time we were seeing them off at the airport with the hopes of getting together in the not too distant future.

Brooke found a full time job in Saint John working in the billing department for Bell Mobility.  It may not be a life long career but it is a good start to getting back on her feet financially and then hopefully school again next year.  It has been awesome having her back here and Britni is enjoying her company.  I am enjoying the extra help around the house but my favorite part is just having her here to spend time with.

November has also flown by with a week long visit from Brooke's friend Emmi. Of course there were lots of day trips to Saint John, Calais and all the scenic areas Charlotte County has to offer.  Just like Brittany, Emmi fell in love with New Brunswick and wishes to move here...time will tell I guess.

For the first time in 4 years I have a christmas tree up and am looking forward to a good old fashioned Christmas. The turkey is in the freezer and I have a good start on the Christmas shopping.  Our newest addition to the family, Charlie, especially likes the tree.  Charlie is a Bichon Frise/Malteese dog which is loved by the whole family.

Overall, I am really happy with the changes that have occured over the past year.  It seems hard to believe that at the same time last year I was hoping against hope that my house would sell and I would be able to move on alone and get back on my feet.  As fate and a lot of hard work would have it I managed to hang on and now life has done a complete turn around.  The people I have living with me enjoy being here and are reaching for their own goals with great success.  I have been able to retire from the work force and stay at home just taking care of my gang. 

Well, I guess that's my update for October and November..sorry for the delay.  My life feels full again as does my heart.  Life is good!