The End of An Inning

In the movie, "Good Morning Vietnam"one of my faves, the superior of an army radio d-jay says to him, "Do you know what three up and three down means, soldier." The d-jay responds, "yes sir, the end of an inning." That's it for us. Almost 3 years married and no children over and onto a new phase of life. So I thought I would post some of the things I've learned at the close of 2008...as I consider what our new baby girl will teach us in 2009.

*Dave usually knows what he's talking about! -key word being usually. He really knows a lot of information, some which people might think useless but no doubt trustworthy. He is dependable and very wise. He's my rock and my best friend-I am very grateful to have married such a patient, kind, humorous and loving man.

*Jesus loves me-really! Not going to church will make you question how much God really loves you, but this year we have been so blessed. I work part-time, we own a home now, and we are expecting a child-there is enough money to go 'round, even the dogs still eat well! They even get treats. I think there is something to be said about the wisdom of living life to the fullest and following a few simple guidelines.

*Learning to love myself, has helped me love others more. Dave has really helped me to see that who I am is good enough! I still have complaints about my weight and my attitude sometimes, but as a whole I feel much better about who I am. That has made me much less critical of others and surely less judgmental. I can only hope to keep improving.

*Money and Sex won't ruin a marriage if you talk about them. We've had our share of discussions about the top two issues married people argue about, but we've made it so far. And I am learning to realize that all things can be talked about-if you set aside your pride and try to focus on what's important. I'm not saying we've found some key to marriage that I will write a book on, we don't pretend to have THE BEST MARRIAGE, or that everyone should do as we do. But I've learned that humor and honesty can get two people trying to become one through a lot of things!

*Basset Hounds can make the world a better place. Loretta has been a fun addition to our lives, she's even stopped chewing shoes! Now if we can keep her out of the kleenex.

*Family shouldn't be taken for granted! We've lost a lot of people we love this last year or so. My Papaw and Dave's Dad being the two that have made me think the most. Our child will not ever know Dave's parents, they are both deceased now. Dave's Dad will not impart his love for Johnny Cash or bits of wisdom, and humor on to our baby girl. Papaw will not be there to bounce her on his knee or buy ice cream from the ice cream man, and that has made me think of all the times I could have, should have, and didn't! I am going to try no to take for granted the love of family, and spend as much time making memories for my cousins, nieces and nephews and our kids as I can.

*Finally life isn't that serious! There are things that happen some because of my choices, others by accident...but no matter what life is meant to be enjoyed. Dave has helped me not be so afraid of ruining my life, making one mistake that will mess everything up. Humans are fragile, but life is meant to be lived, an adventure-and no matter how long I get to live it. I hope to enjoy it!