Year-In-Review Mantel

Today's Mantel Monday is happening on Tuesday. But, next week I promise to move Mantel Monday back to Monday and make right all my wrongs.

You have to admit the week between Christmas and New Years is an odd time of limbo for the seasonal decor. After Christmas I immediately begin plotting the break-down and packing of my Holly Jolly stuff. I am definitely (oh-so definitely) NOT one to let my holiday decorations linger. On the 26th of December I stop turning on my tree lights. And, a sad, un-lit Christmas tree is a wonderful motivator to get your gears into gear. Know what I mean?

So, when it comes to mantels, I'm moving on. I'm looking ahead to the future, but not before taking a look at the past. I decided this mantel would be best served as a tribute to 2011 as we prepare for 2012.

The biggest thing to happen in 2011 is the birth of my first daughter. She was born in February and changed my world forever. Needless to say, this year-in-review features a heck of a whole lot of her sweetness.

Good thing she has a lot of sweetness to offer.

In 2011 I went from pregnant, to mom of a newborn, to mom of a 10 month old. Watching her first 10 months has been pure joy.

In 2011 I experienced my first Christmas from the eyes of a little soul. And, I got to anticipate the Christmases to come. Christmas with a child renews the magic of my first Christmas memories.

2011 also turned me from a full-time nurse to a momma who gets to stay home 95% of the time. Now I only work outside my home a couple days a month. A huge change, for sure!

Oh, I also turned 30 in 2011. But, because it happened when my lil' punkin was only 10 weeks old, the birthday went by without too much fanfare. And, I was happy to let that one slide by without a huge production.  For sure.

Another fun thing about 2011? Getting to watch my hubby turn into a father. He's a natural, which I expected, but I've thoroughly enjoyed being witness to his metamorphosis.

This past year I have been showered with so much love, support and friendship. I've been beyond blessed in 2011.

Do you have any traditions or ways in which you'll review this past year? What events happened in your 2011? Do share!