BEST NEW EDITION ~ Hunter and Spark
The Hughes’ household welcomed two new editions to the family this Christmas. We can’t believe how quickly we’ve become “dog people.”
BEST MOMENT ~ Watching Simone Sing “Peace, Peace”
Simone has learned under the same choir director for six years, from 7th grade through 12th grade. And every Christmas concert finishes with the combined choirs singing “Peace, Peace.” Knowing it’s their last Christmas concert with Mr. Helm, many seniors have tears through the last stanza. It’s always a special moment. But this year, it was Simone’s moment. She sang a beautiful solo at this capstone concert.
We’re so thankful for the amazing musical experience Simone has been able to be a part of. And in 2013, we’re traveling to New York City to watch Simone sing at Carnegie Hall.
BEST GIFT ~ The One Year Chronological Bible
Last Christmas, Jeff gave me the One Year Chronological Bible as a gift. Going through the chronological Bible, in 365 readings, has become my favorite new morning habit. I’ve loved reading the Story in the order of actual occurrences. I plan to read it again in 2013, and I’d love to have you join me!
BEST NEW TRADITION ~ The Chinese New Year
The kids thought a food fight sounded like fun. We said “next year,” thinking they’d forget all about it. They didn’t. So the Chinese New Year has a whole new level of anticipation this coming year. The kids are already making plans for Round Two.
BEST DAY ~ A Walk Through Central Park
Jeff surprised me with a trip to New York City for our 10th anniversary in June. We saw the typical sights. The Brooklyn Bridge. Times Square. The Statue of Liberty. And, of course, a Broadway show. We also happened to be standing at the top of the Empire State Building when it got struck by lightning. No kidding. Thankfully, everyone was safe.
Our favorite part of the trip, however, was the day we spent walking around Central Park. It was the most serene setting. A beautiful oasis among the urban landscape.
BEST PURCHASE ~ The Kindle Fire
I’m a devoted “book person.” I never thought I’d actually enjoy reading an e-tablet. But I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how quickly I’ve taken to it. Now I’m writing my first e-book. It will be released in the early part of 2013.
BEST SAVE ~ Parker’s Smile
Two days before school started Parker attended a friend’s birthday party. While going down a large slide, he somehow managed to lose his adult front tooth, root and all. It was huge. The tooth was over an inch long! Parker brought the tooth to Jeff, with blood all over his face, and said, “Dad! I’m gonna’ get like 25 bucks from the toothfairy for this one!”
But he didn’t.
Jeff quickly asked the host for a cup of milk and placed the tooth in the milk. I called my friend who’s a dentist, and she dropped everything to meet us at her office. She was able to put his tooth back in, and four months later, it’s still there. The tooth hasn’t died, and the x-rays show that the nerves have re-attached to the root of the tooth. Jeff’s quick thinking and my friend’s quick response helped save Parker’s smile from needing dental implants for the rest of his life. We’re so very, very grateful.
BEST Déjà Vu ~ Brynn’s Concert
Brynn is now in the fourth grade, and she has the same fourth grade teacher Simone had eight years ago. She also has the same elementary choir teacher Simone had too. So Simone has been going to Brynn’s school once a week to help in Brynn’s choir class.
At Brynn’s Christmas concert, I kept remembering how I attended these same choir concerts with Simone all those years ago. Now it’s Brynn’s turn. It’s so sweet to watch Brynn sing with her friends and dance to the choreography.
BEST DECISION ~ Going Local
One of our goals for 2012 was to invest in our local community. Now we’re leading a group of Cub Scouts from Parker’s school. We’re going on trips with families from the surrounding neighborhoods. We’re making memories with friends who live close by. It’s been a beautiful thing.
2012 has been full of some favorite moments.
And we’re looking forward to many more in 2013.
What have your favorite moments of 2012 been?
Reading all your good news delights me, Denise! My husband and I were just talking about how instead of looking ahead to the new year’s plan as much as usual, we were each looking back on the multiple amazing blessings of this past year. I love seeing you doing that, too–and the way you did it, with all these wonderful ‘bests.’ Daughter singing at Carnegie Hall! Whew! Kinda breath-taking! And that tooth event: breathtaking in another way! Ooch! As for the Chronological Bible: I fizzled out in 2012. Maybe I need the actual printed copy–which it seems should be a great reference tool to have on hand. So, I’m game to try again, joining you. Congrats on your stick-to-it-iveness!
Denise, I loved reading the Hughes news! I also have taken to the Kindle Fire. However, I have so many books downloaded that I don’t have enough hours in the day to read all I want to read. But I try …
Since I grew up in New York (on Long Island), I understand how awesome a trip to NYC really is. So much to see and do. I love to sit in Central Park, a little respite in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.
I started reading the Bible each morning on http://www.youversion.com. However, I still continue to have my morning quiet time with my worn Bible in my lap too. I also love to read My Utmost for His Highest.
Thank you for sharing your heart and your family with us. Happy New Year!
Blessings and love,
Debbie