Reflecting on 2011

I will have to say that looking back to 2011 has made me realize how blessed we are!  It was a very productive year to say the least.  Barry and I had been trying to sell our home off and on for about 2 1/2 years.  It was a beautiful home, but daunting to others since it was built in 1919.  We had alot of wonderful memories in that home but were ready to move into something a little newer.  We were able to sell this past year and buy a newer home on the other side of town.  We often reflect on why it took so long, but we have had that aha moment when we realized God's plan and why it was His timing and not ours.  We ended up with a home that I had fallen in love with when we first put our house on the market and never realized at the time it would work out to be ours those long 2 1/2 years later.
-Shortly before selling our house, we decided to pursue adoption.  We started the process in May, thinking we would adopt from Jamaica and now look where we are..... adopting from Haiti.  Who would have thought Haiti, yet even adopting at all.  Barry and I were obedient to what God was calling us to do and we couldn't be happier!  And after meeting our precious son, we are living everyday with much anticipation to have him home with us!
-Also, prior to selling our house and choosing to adopt, Barry's company became "for sale" and it was definitely overwhelming to know that he could potentially lose his job.  Wow, perfect timing!  But through prayer and faith that it would all work out, Cardone sold in November to a company in Dallas and Barry still has his job.  Thank you Lord!  We know that changes are to come, but for now things are looking positive.
-August 2011 marked the 1st year after Barry's best friend, Ryan's, passing.  We often say to each other that we hoped that the time would heal our sadness, but have to admit we still really miss him.  Barry has read many books on heaven and talks often about looking forward to seeing Ryan again soon!
-Barry's parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past October and what an amazing story and legacy they have provided us with.  To see where God has lead them and to see the legacy they have created is amazing.  I will say I have wonderful in-laws!  All the family was able to make it back to Watertown to celebrate.
-One more thing I forgot to add, Barry and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary in May this year.  Not quite 50 but getting closer.  We took a trip to Puerto Rico for the first time.  Our resort was amazingly beautiful and  relaxing.  El Conquistador was located on a high cliff overlooking the ocean with breathtaking views.  We took a boat to our own private beach with a restaurant, so we stayed all day.  Awesome!  We reflected on all that has happened in that 10 years.  Wow we've been busy.  Now to look forward to the next 10 years and many more!  Alot can happen in that time :)
-Now looking forward to 2012............We are praying that our adoption process goes exceptionally fast and that Junior will be home with us before 2013.  I will be going back to Haiti to see him in April.  I am celebrating my 20th High School reunion this year (in Carlisle, PA) and am not sure where the time went????????? Barry and I are taking the kids on a Disney cruise.  We are looking forward to some time away and to spend some good quality family time together.  Oh, and quality time with our good friends from Kansas City.   We will be spending time with my family at Smith Mountain Lake this summer where my mom and dad live.  We really enjoy our time there every year.  Especially seeing how our families have changed.
-I am excited to see what 2012 will bring.  Will it be as adventurous as 2011???????