Happy New Year!

Last night we had our annual "Family Home Evening Goal Night." We reviewed our goals from last year and gave them a percentage rating. When the goal for a monthly trip with Dad was read, Dude proudly proclaimed, "We did 100%!" He was super excited for that one. We then decided on some new goals for 2008. I'm so proud of my kids and the goals they helped set for our family and for themselves. I was impressed at how much they comprehended the need for improvement in certain areas, and by the same token, the ability to rejoice in their successes. My husband deserves the credit for this, as he is the one who encourages goal setting so fervently. When we were first engaged he brought over some paper to my house and said that he would like to write down the goals for our future. I rolled my eyes. I am not one to set goals for myself. I fear failure to much to allow that kind of set up for myself. But, I loved this man so much that I obliged his request. Among our goals for our future family was the afore mentioned family home evening once a year. I imagined to myself a painful night of boring goal setting. Amazingly enough, though, this is our most successful FHE of the year. I have actually come to enjoy it. What an amazing husband I have. I am truly blessed to be his wife.
After the signing of the 2008 goals (yes, we type them up and all sign the bottom), we decided to ring in the new year with a toast. We had sparkling white grape juice. Ignore the messy kitchen, and enjoy Dude's expression after taking his first sip.

After we were done, Princess asked, "Are we going to make toast, now?" :)