An ode to '09

The end of the year brings out something crazy in me. I want to wrap up the year in a neat little bow for myself, and for you. But, that's not so easy.

So, are you wondering how this crazy blogger with unrestricted access to a keyboard will wrap up the year? I'll do it similar to how I did it in 2008.

A lot went down in '09.
- We bought, renovated and found renters for our second house, the little house.

- We jet-setted to the exotic locales of Atlanta, Ga., Phoenix, Ga., Memphis, Tenn., and Galena, Ill.
- Ryan rocked the dining room with wainscoting.
- Kim learned the joy of having two heated blankets at her disposal, along with a Snuggie.

- Three of Ryan's fingers were broken.

- We grew our first vegetable garden and had an abundance of produce to show for our hard work..

- Kim read the Twilight series. During which she refused to shower, clean the house or cook.

- Kim painted every piece of oak furniture within a 20 mile radius.

- We built a rain garden. (Actually, Ryan built it and Kim planted.)

- Kim showed off her stylish work wear. Everyone rushed out to get a Woodward University sweatshirt.

- Kim made it into the newspaper... twice.

- The delay timer on the washer revolutionalized Kim's life.

- An upholstered headboard was born.
- Ryan gallivanted around on his death machine diesel motorcycle.
- Kim put up 12 Christmas trees.

- Ryan went to Yellowstone solo. (Kim is still bitter.)

- We made at least 12 new recipes.

- Franco nearly met his death when he knocked over the Christmas tree.

- Lola humored her momma by posing for hundreds of photos by the Christmas tree that remained. That dog warms my heart.

- We celebrated a wonderful second year of marriage.

Thank you for reading about our adventures in 2009.

The journey continues.

Happy New Year!

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Goals - how'd I do?

Wow.... time to talk about goals for this month already.  Hope you had a successful and productive month.
The Wife's December Goals
Fun:

Plan and enjoy anniversary trip. (More on this soon)

Entertain.  (Christmas and other small get-togethers.)

Read two books.  (The Shack  and The Next Thing on my List )

Learn a new technique with my camera and practice.  (I played around with aperture and Googled ways to take photos of my trees. It's getting better, but I still need more practice.)

DIYing/Crafting:
Sew something new. (My sewing machine got a workout this month - including these reusable snack bags and sandwich wraps.)

Paint something. (I painted some gifts for Christmas, including a raised dog bowl for my mother-in-law.)

Make a Christmas quilt and pillows.  (FAIL! I have the fabric, so maybe next year?)

Make homemade Christmas gifts. (Go me!)

Continue organizing photos. (I've got a long way to go.)

Gardening:

Write an overview of gardening. Make a list of what to plant next year. (FAIL! I gotta do this. I just have so many other things I wanna post.)

Keep houseplants alive.(NOTHING DIED!)

Home:

Curtains in office. (FAIL! I cannot decide what I want to do.)

Complete HolidayPalooza.

Cooking:

Make a new healthy recipe.  (Recipes coming soon.)

Wellness:

Go to yoga each week. (FAIL!)

As an aside: during last month's goals post, I had a few friends who didn't like the word "fail" that I use when I didn't complete a goal for the month. They suggested using another word or ignoring it. The truth is, I purposely make a lot of goals each month. It doesn't bother me if I don't complete something, and saying that I've failed is just a drama-queen way to portray it. I usually leave most months feeling good about my accomplishments. So, I'm going to stick with it for now. I know that goals posts aren't the most popular posts anyhow, so I'm more doing it for me and to give me accountability.

And, here's next month's goals (I'm consolidating to try to keep your boredom to a minimum.)

The Wife's January Goals

Fun:

Have fun in Kansas City with Ali.

Entertain.

Read three books.

Practice something new with my camera.
Write in my 5-year diary every day.

DIYing/Crafting:

Sew something new.
Practice machine quilting on something small.
Take a crafty class.

Paint something.

Continue organizing photos.

Gardening:

Write an overview of gardening. 
Make a list of what to plant next year.

Home:

Organize files.

Organize crafting supplies.

Cooking:

Make a new recipe.

Wellness:

Eat fruits and vegetables daily.

Do not eat at McDonald's. (This may sound ridiculous, but this will be tough. I'm craving a McChicken just thinking about it.)

Work out weekly.

How did your December look? Tell me about your plans are for January.

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Review: 2009 Goals

In January, I wrote about goals for the year. It's been hanging out on the sidebar all year, to remind me. I find much more success with monthly goals than with goals for a year. Things change, my priorities change. I'm still deciding how I want to handle goals or resolutions in 2010. But, let's take a look at my focuses from the start of the year and see how I did.

As a whole, I think I did relatively well. The major goal not reached was starting a workout routine. This went NOWHERE. I also could have done much better with budgeting. I stopped writing down purchases entirely. I also didn't learn to crochet, although I do have a class scheduled for January, so I'm giving myself half-credit.

I think this is all that needs to be said about this. Take a look below if you are interested in reading more about my goals for the year.

I want to learn:
- to crochet (I haven't done this. But, I actually have a class scheduled in January. Half credit?)
- to grow my own food and herbs (Yep.)
- to "not sweat the small stuff" (Is this measurable?)
- about ways to be better to the environment (Yep. I definitely did a lot more reading and researching about this in 2009.)

I want to read:
- two enjoyable books each month instead of zoning in front of the tv in the evenings (For the most part, I did well. I finished more than 30 books in 2009. I watched very little television this year.)

I want to make:
- a crocheted blanket (See above.)
- homemade gifts for family and friends next Christmas (Yep.)
- a new recipe every month (Yep.)

I want to visit:
- the local farmer's market regularly (Yep. Almost weekly in the summer.)
- primarily locally-owned restaurants (Pretty good, but we could do better.)
- a vacation destination with hubs (Atlanta, Arizona, Galena, Memphis.)

I want to change:
- my workout routine (just start it) (ROYAL FAIL.)
- my carbon footprint (reduce it) (The rain garden, vegetable and herb gardening and composting were the biggest developments.)

I want to be better at:
- picking up and cleaning throughout the week, so I have weekends for relaxing and activities (Yep.)
- sticking to our budget and writing down all purchases (Nope.)

I want to do:
- an organizing overhaul in closets, drawers and cabinets to eliminate clutter (Yep, although it may need to be done again.)

Most of all, I want:
- to love and be loved (I think my husband helps a lot with this one.)
- to achieve balance in life, school and work (Work in progress. I think I'm getting there.)

How did your year go?

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Lovely little lovelies

I recently won some lovely West Elm candle holders from Ashley in her blog giveaway.

Since I don't have a West Elm nearby, I was even more tickled.

I happened to receive the package ON Christmas Eve. Our awesome postman actually brought it back after he got off because he saw it came in and wanted to make sure we got it in time for Christmas. Isn't that sweet?

The wrapping itself was lovely.

And, the candles are so cute. They look so nice in our bathroom, by my snowmen.

Love it. Thanks again!

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365 x 2

It's our two-year anniversary here at NewlyWoodwards.

Our wedding took place on a cold but lovely December day.

It's hard to believe it's already been two years. A fun, exciting, happy, challenging, busy, blessed two years. A wonderful two years.

To many more years... with only increasing love and respect for each other.

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What? Mwa?

My new friend, Stephanie, just let me know that I was nominated for a Homie's Award on Apartment Therapy in the Home Design category. I thought it was kinda like an exclusive party that only cool kids are invited, too.  I guess not. ;)

I totally went online and added NewlyWoodwards as a favorite. Is it wrong to add your own blog as a favorite? I don't know. I added a few of my others favorites, too. People that are probably far too cool to care.

If you have a chance, go over to the Homies and add NewlyWoodwards as a favorite in the Home Design category. Or don't. I'll still love ya.

And, thanks so much to whoever nominated us. We really appreciate it.

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Da Bears! Reusable Lunch Bags and Sandwich Wraps

Tonight, Ryan and I will be freezing our butts off enjoying ourselves in Chicago, cheering on da Bears. Ryan's thrilled beyond belief.

Beyond belief. He's hoping his snot freezes. I swear to the Big Guy in the Sky, he said that. (I know - it's disgusting.) He has some strange excitement about being at a Bears game when it's cold and could snow.

I never really had the dream to go to a December football game. But, I love a man who crazily wants to go to a December game. So, off we go. And, actually, I'm getting kinda excited. Kinda.

I've packed my long underwear, layers of clothing, hand and foot warmers, wool socks, a down coat.... and my Snuggie. I hope I don't die of hypothermia. That would be a bummer.

But, in honor of the big Monday Night game tonight, I'll share what I made for Ryan for Christmas.

They are reusable snack bags and sandwich wraps. Ryan tries to be green, so when I saw these tutorials, I knew they'd be perfect for him. I ordered PUL fabric from ebay (the same fabric used for cloth diapers, they are vinyl lined so they'll wipe clean). Then, I used Chicago Bears fabric as the outside. So, they are extra cool and manly. (Insert "Tim the Tool Man Taylor" grunting.)

I also made a simple, drawstring bag for him instead of using gift wrap or bags. I hope that Ryan will use it in his car for garbage. I'm seriously considering whipping up tons of these with fabric that I have on hand to use for gifts instead of gift wrap. They are so easy and quick, which makes them very satisfying.

Here are the tutorials that I used. They are all quite straightforward. I will note, I didn't follow them to a letter. I referred to them, then I did my own thing. I don't follow directions well. However, I'm a very beginner sewer, so I know you can do it, too. Think of all the Ziplocs you will save from the garbage.
Reusable snack bag
Reusable sandwich wrap
Drawstring bag

(And, here's another tutorial for a snack bag from French Sleep Deprivation Study . I didn't find it until it was too late, but I will try this next time.)

GO BEARS!

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Dear Santa:

Dear Santa:

You've got a lot to live up to, old man. This Christmas was pretty awesome.

We spent Christmas Eve at my grandpa's. During the cousin gift-swap, I ended up with Cranium (must-have) and Ryan came home with a massaging, heating neck pillow. =)

Gifts - Check.
Prime rib - Check.
Family - Check.

Ryan and I also exchanged gifts on Christmas Eve. Because I was too excited to wait. We both got Bear's hats and gloves for the game on Monday night.

Ryan also made me a set of family ornaments. I loved them. He welded them together out of bolts and nuts. The pugs have squiggly tales. So hilarious. I made Ryan a Chicago Bears ornament. (My hat/gloves/scarf set is made by Etsy seller Funkie Fresh)

On Christmas Day, lunch got moved to our house from Ryan's parents because their power was out. It was a bit of a crisis for them, but it was easy-peasy for me. We got the turkey roasting and finished setting the table. Lunch was lovely, and having electricity was a plus.

Then we opened many lovely gifts. And, for your enjoyment, Ryan took an ongoing series of photos of me opening a gift. I get excited easily. Ryan's mom said it's fun to give me gifts. I guess it may be because of my expressions?

After gifts, we broke out Cranium. So fun. You must play. Ryan and I dominated. Just saying.

It also snowed ... about 6 inches. So, Franco geared up in his sweatshirt to help Ryan shovel. Such a good helper.

Then, for the second year, we hosted a breakfast on the morning after Christmas. I love hosting breakfasts. We served egg/potato/sausage casserole, sausage in a blanket, cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit with dip. An added bonus, our Christmas dishes got another use. =)

So, all-in-all, a great few days, with family, great food and lovely gifts.

And, did I mention -

Oh, yes. I'm rocking my Chicago Bears Snuggie. I'm not sure I'll ever take it off.

So, Santa. I'm not sure you can top it.  Good luck trying.

XOXO -
Kim

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Merry Christmas from Lola (and the rest of the Woodwards)!

(An aside: Franco was far too busy knocking over a Christmas tree to be in the photo.)

Have a lovely holiday!

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'Twas the night before Christmas (NewlyWoodwards' style)

'Twas the night before Christmas

The Woodward house was dark,

The pugs were a'snoring,

The humans passed out.

Franco has been naughty,

Lola has been sweet.

But, Santa will leave them both some gifts,

and definitely some treats.

Outside it's cold, but in, it's warm.

The Christmas joy is here.

The time to eat, open gifts,

and spend time with family is near.

So, Happy Holidays. Ho-ho-ho!

And, Merry Christmas to you.

From Ryan, Kim, Franco and Lola,

may your holidays be bright, too!

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Last-minute, homemade Christmas cards/tags

These are some cards I put together for a card swap. They turned out pretty fun and were so simple. I just used a square bunch to cut out lots of different Christmas scrapbook papers (the idea was birthed from the Christmas Advent). Then, I added a stamp, a little ribbon and voila! I am going to try to put together some for tags, too.

Merry Christmas!

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Holiday home tour: the last six trees and ornament miscellany

I know that some of you were counting the number of trees in our house (My eyes are on you, Mrs. Adventure). We were at three last week (Dining Room, RIP: Living Room and Kitchen ).

Now, the last six trees, which are in sets of 3. So, do you count them as 2 or 6? These are the quandaries I deal with on a daily basis. It's a rough life I lead. Rough life, friends. Get our your violins.

Anyhow... here are the trees in the office/crafting/dog's room. (I should also show you the other side of the room. It's a disaster.) These trees were my mom's. I always loved them.

And, here's our set of trees at the top of the landing. This is where we put our sentimental ornaments (so Franco doesn't destroy them). The tree toppers are pew bows from our wedding. The two poinsettias are actually our altar arrangements. Note the tulle - I love the stuff. It's magic fabric. I'd wear it if that wasn't weird. Heck, I may wear it anyhow.

And, now.... our ornaments

Thanks to my friend, Susie, for one of the most thoughtful ornaments I've received. It's a laptop, which she outfitted with our blog header. I *may* have jumped up and down when I received it. I just love it. She also included the lovely heart, which is perfect for our dining room tree.

Now, a few more ornaments that I love love love.

Marriage and home

1. Our wedding photo, from an ornament swap in 2008. 2. Our First Home, purchased after Christmas last year.

Random fun

1. Ryan's gift ornament to me, 2008. 2. My gift ornament to Ryan, 2008. 3. Franco - The Demon 4. Our Hometown Christmas Walk Ornament from the year we began dating, 2001

Trips

1. San Francisco, 2. Atlanta - Coke Museum, 3. Kansas City - Lightbulb from Christmas display, 4. Memphis, Ducky from Peabody

Tell me about your favorite ornaments.

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Dare to... have traditions! (Dare to DIY week 6/6)

Can you believe it's time for the last week of the Dare to DIY blog party? Thank you for spending the last six weeks with me... daring...to...DIY. ;) I hope you had fun. I know I did. I really loved "meeting" a lot of you and seeing your fabulous ideas.

I kinda wanna sing.... "Now it's time to say goodbye....." (Mickey Mouse Club). But, I won't. Cause I'll still be seeing all your projects on your blog. So, I don't have to say anything, except.... it's time for:

Dare to... have traditions!

Is anyone else currently singing: "Who day and night must scramble for a living, feed a wife and children, say his daily prayers? And, who has the right as master of the house, to have the final word at home?"

"THE PAPA....THE PAPA. TRADITION! THE PAPA... THE PAPA. TRADITION!"

(As an aside, I love Fiddler on the Roof. And, it may be because I played Golde as a junior in high school. I think I was a dang good Golde, as far as Goldes go. I may even have a video of it somewhere. But, unfortunately - you'll probably never see it. Sorry.)

Back to why you are here.

Dare to... have traditions!

Everyone has traditions for the holidays. Tell us about your favorites or start a new tradition to share. Do you eat pancakes on Christmas morning? Do you sing songs from Fiddler on the Roof? Do you open one gift on Christmas Eve? Do you play a certain movie or listen to certain music? Do tell...

Last year, I talked about our traditions for our first Christmas here. Most will be continued this year.

- Spend Christmas Eve at my grandpa's home.
- Spend Christmas Day at Ryan's parent's home.

- Spend Christmas evening together (possibly seeing a movie again).

- Host the world-famous, 2nd Annual day-after Christmas breakfast at our home.
- Find an item/ornament during every trip we take to put on the Christmas tree. In 2009, we picked up ornaments in Arizona, Starved Rock State Park and Atlanta.
- Exchange special ornaments with Ryan for Christmas and date them.
- Send out Christmas cards to friends and family.
- Display all of our Christmas cards and choosing a favorite after the holidays- The Favorite Holiday Card Award.
- Take a post-Christmas getaway for our anniversary.

And, as a new tradition - I picked this up to document our holidays (because blogging it just isn't document enough).

The Christmas Memories Book is from Potpourri Gifts. I've spotted the un-personalized version at a local gift store (and purchased it several years ago for a gift for Ryan's brother and sister-in-law). I decided that we needed one of our own. It documents 20 years of Christmases. So, I went ahead and filled in last year (our first Christmas married). And, I'll continue this tradition of writing it down. You know, for future generations. Because... they will care.

Inside, each year includes 5 simple pages - The following prompts with journaling space - "Holiday Visits and Visitors," "Christmas Eve," "Christmas Day," "Christmas Dinner," "Special Gifts," "Things we want to remember." Plus, space for a family photograph and a favorite Christmas card. Isn't that fab? Just enough space to journal the overview and things you want to remember. Then, we'll just store it with the holiday decorations for the next year. I'm pretty excited about this.

Now, it's your turn. Tell me about your traditions. 

A few guidelines:
1. Please link to the specific post, not your general blog address.

2. Please include a teaser of your post in parenthese - for example, I would write NewlyWoodwards (Traditions and a book to document them).

3. Link your post back up to NewlyWoodwards with text or this button.

<a href="http://newlywoodwards.blogspot.com"><img alt="Dare to DIY" width="240" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2631/4079810980_0374bbceb4_m.jpg" height="160" /></a>

Also, please visit at least one other blog below and comment! This will help us all meet each other.

This is the last week, friends. Please comment and let me know how you liked it/what your favorite Dare was/how much you love me. XOXO - Kim

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Did you dare?

Thanks for all the great links this week. I hope you got some inspiration. I know I did.

Here a few of my faves:

Ashley@ Little Moments' Christmas Card Display

The Redhead@RedHeadsCraftMoreFun's Crystallized Candle

Lisa@MooreMinutes' Hot Pink Wreath

Erin@Domestic Adventures' Subtle Stocking

Leslie@Our Soft Spot's Annual Photo DIY Ornaments

Keri@The Ronks' Ornament Swag

If you didn't get a chance to check out some other blogs, please take a moment to do so. The fun part about the blog party is meeting new people. So get out there and comment. =)

What was your favorite?

Don't forget to post on Monday about your holiday traditions and link up to the last week of Dare to DIY!

Happy Weekend!

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Holiday home tour: Outdoors

We only do a little outdoor decorating. I'd love to do lights, but it's a lot more work than we want to put into it. But, here's what we did this year:

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(As you can see, it snowed before I took all the photos.)

Do you decorate outside? 

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Holiday home tour: Kitchen

Now, the holiday home tour takes a turn into the kitchen. I decided to get creative and make a kitchen tree this year. I used a stainless pot as the base and added lights, bubble lights (which I discovered in a box), cookie cutters, wooden spoons, a rolling pin and an oven mitt as the topper.

I lined the small cookie cutters with scrapbook paper to make them stick out. (A quick project with the help of hot glue.)

All-in-all, pretty cute for $0.

A few other kitchen views.

Thanks for joining us on our home tour. Next up - outdoors.

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