Loving this Life: 2012, so far...

Goals are the fuel in the furnace of achievement.
-Brian Tracy

Well, so far, 2012 is turning out to be a pretty decent year. It's flying by, but it seems as we get older it just does!

My oldest daughter, who is away at college, will be finishing up her third year, and I can't believe it! My younger daughter, has only one more year of high school and then she'll be off to college too! This is an important time for her as far as school goes, so much pressure on her to get good grades, taking SAT's, and finding the right college.

I worry so much for my girls...I want them to have every opportunity in life that they possibly can. I want them to be HAPPY, and INDEPENDENT, and just do what they LOVE for a living. That's not asking too much, is it??

Sometimes I just have to stop and BREATHE!!!

The bottom line, though, is that they are good girls, I couldn't be more proud and more pleased with how they are turning out. I am truly blessed!

For me, it's been a very busy year. I have a summer job!! Wooo hoooo! I'm pretending that I'm completely excited about that :) Which I am, really, but it will be different this summer, working on the weekends, probably every weekend.

I am at that point in my life, though, that I really don't have a choice. With one in college, and the other starting college next year, I desperately need the extra money. I will be working at an event venue, it's outdoors, so I'm happy about that. The last thing I want is to be stuck inside during the summer. I will be doing a lot of hard work, setting up tables and chairs, serving and cleaning up during and after weddings and events, and even cleaning bathrooms. A little hardwork never hurt anyone, right?!? I am excited to be part of people's important day though, and I love celebrations and parties, so I think it will be really fun!

My youngest just went to prom Saturday night, and I paid for her dress and all the "accessories" with money from my "other" second job :) It's just temporary, but I am working for one of my best friends from high school at her Tuxedo Rental and Prom Dress shop. Perfect, right?? I literally "worked off" my daughter's dress, shoes, & jewelry.

I've discovered this Author and Artist, Karen Salmonsohn, she is so positive and inspirational.

It's funny how life works out when you need it to. I am by no means out of debt, I still work more than I play, but we do what we have to, and I am lucky enough to get to work with nice people who I enjoy spending time with. I can't really ask for more than that.

Above all, I firmly believe in the old adage, that hard work pays off.

Someday, maybe I can save enough money to take a real vacation...I dream of Europe, I have always wanted to visit Italy, France, England, Greece....and let's not forget Spain!

Little inexpensive treats I sent to my two sweet nieces, I miss them so much!

But for now, I need a new washer, dryer, oven, and the list goes on! I guess we are always in need of something, it's what keeps us motivated and working towards a goal. And I'm ok with that at this point in my life.

Andes Chocolate Mint cupcakes I made for the kids going to Prom.

In my spare time, yes, there's a tiny bit of it....I am still baking and crafting, and just started with all the yard work that comes at this time of year. I am already dreaming of homegrown tomatoes and evenings on my back patio with a glass of wine and my favorite magazine or book....