Lightening Online

2009 has been a momentous date in our minds for quite some time now.

The first thing I whispered in my children’s ears this year?

“We’re going on our big trip THIS year!”

For so long it has seemed like 2009 was so far in the future and now it’s HERE!

Of course, the scary thing for me is that now it’s here, I’m afraid it’ll all be over before we can barely blink.

But I’m determined to savour every moment.

Hopefully you don’t get sick of me talking about our “big trip” before we even leave as I suspect you’ll all be my sounding board as we make preparations (and it feels like there are a LOT Of those to be made).

Christmas this year had a distinct “trip” theme about it. The kids each got their own toiletry bag, complete with toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap and a face washer. We’ve already been giving them a good workout at the shack but their primary purpose if for the “big trip”.

They also got a digital camera each so that they can record the trip through their own eyes. Already I’m amazed at their photography. It’s a great way to see the world through their eyes.

Next on my list of things “to do” is to look through the Back To School sales for school supplies we might need during the trip. I want the kids to each keep a hand-written journal/diary of the trip, complete with photographs and other pictures. I’m not sure yet what to use for these journals. On the one hand, I think something with a plastic sleeve would be good to keep them protected (as I imagine they’ll be read over and over). On the other, I’m thinking a book with lined pages will be easier for them to write in. I’m kinda hoping something will magically jump out at me but if you have any suggestions, I’m all ears.

Now will somebody pinch me because I’m not sure I can actually believe we’re going to do this trip - THIS year!!!

It’s moments like these when I’m totally IN LOVE with where we live!!!

Smiley Saturday is currently “On Vacation”. If you would like to post a Smiley Saturday post, please feel free to do so and link to your post in the comments section below.

I hope you’re all finding plenty of reasons to Smile in this New Year.

Image via WikipediaI’m choosing a theme for myself and this blog this year:

“Let Your Light Shine in 2009″

I feel like the butterfly has finally unfolded it’s wings and is ready to take flight.

2008 was a year of struggle and a year of healing. There is still work to be done but I’m feeling stronger and more confident.

I’m slowly discovering more of who I am and who I can be.

2009 is going to be a big year for me. I can feel it in my bones. Most of the focus for the year will be on our “Big Trip”. Preparing to go and then actually GOING!!!

But on a more personal level, 2009 is about ME. Finding myself. Working out who I really am and understanding myself more. Continuing on my journey of learning to love myself so that in turn I can share that love with others. Finding ways to make people smile and shining a light to brighten their day.

What about you? Are you with me? Will you let your inner light shine in 2009?

Happy 2009 Everyone! It’s going to be a GREAT year.

A few weeks ago, I became a Grandmother! To Kittens that is. The kids have been having a wonderful time playing with them and watching them grow and develop.

We tried to set up a lovely bed in the cubby for Charli to use when the kittens were born. Instead, she chose here:

Of course, they’re very safe from predators in that spot. Well, predators other than Farmboy who had to do some sneaky detective work to even find them. We moved them to our small garden shed and they were quite happy there.

Here they are at only a few days old:

I’m so thankful that they’ll mostly be going to family as it’ll mean we get to see them grow up. It’s hard not to get attached but 2 cats is really enough for us for now.