Hello!
It’s been about a month since I last linked up with Joyce, so I’m doing so today.

Here are this week’s prompts:
1. What’s one thing you want to get done before the calendar flips to a new year?
I can’t wait to have some downtime this weekend and after the holidays., I haven’t watched a single Christmas movie yet and hope to do so during the time off…even if it’s after Christmas.

I hope to go into 2025 feeling refreshed.
2. What’s something that brought a smile to your face this year?
Going on our summer vacay to Oregon and Washington was definitely a highlight of the year. We enjoyed all of it from the city to the college town to the outdoors and more. Going to the Olympic Track Trials was an amazing experience as well.





Another highlight of the year has been seeing my kids adjust to high school. The transition from middle school to high school has gone pretty seamlessly. Now, I’m spoiled seeing them and their friends at school, and it’s been a highlight of my teaching career!
3. What do you like on a cracker? Do you have a favorite cracker variety?
I’m not much of a cracker girl. I usually like Ritz crackers if my stomach is unsettled or I don’t feel well. I’ve picked up the little “Balance Break” snack packs, and they have a Triscuit and cheese one that I like.
4. Do you have plans for ringing in the new year in a fun or special way? Are you typically awake at midnight on the last day of the year?
The past couple of years, our friends have invited us to their side of the neighborhood for a progressive dinner. It’s always so fun to hang out …we start at a place for apps, then eat dinner, move to another house for dessert, and end the evening toasting to the new year. So, the past few years I’ve made it to midnight. If it wasn’t for that get together, I’d be fine to be in bed my 10!




5. What are three words that describe you in 2024?
Oh…this is a good one –busy, proud, growth.
The kids keep us busy, I’m proud of them for the people they are becoming and the milestone of high school, and I’m growing professionally thanks to a new schedule (that I’ve enjoyed) this school year.
6. Insert your own random thought here.
I feel like Christmas season has gone by too quickly, and we still have a few traditions/activities to do before the Christmas season is over. I know there’s still time, but it’s fleeting!
Well, the next hodgepodge will be in 2025!


I think a neighborhood progressive dinner is basically the perfect way to ring in the new year – if you have a good ‘hood with good neighbors. jealous of that! We just don’t hang out with any of ours. We’ve got some weirdos and the constant leaf blowing neighbor. I really don’t want to listen to that on NYE.
I think your trip was epic! And, so glad you are enjoying having your kids at school. it was a fun almost 4 years for me – cut short due to pandemic. There were stressful times when i stepped in a bit much, but for the most part it was seamless. There was one time freshman year when Mason couldn’t be found in first period because he had not noticed it was time to go – he was reading in the library!
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So many of our good friends live in the neighborhood…like all our fall break crew. We are very lucky.
So far I haven’t had to step in…but I’ve “nudged” both kids to talk to teachers at certain points — but that’s a life skill!
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That’s incredible! We thought we would have that with living in front of the elementary school and we do like some of the people and have gotten to know some more in recent years.
You really are!
It does put you in an awkward position with colleagues. i did get to basically handpick teachers all 4 years so my kids got the best of the best for the most part.
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A big trip is always a highlight for me too. I love that mug : ) I hope you enjoy time with your family, movies, and rest once school wraps up for the holidays. Merry Christmas!
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Thank you! You too.
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I LOVE the sounds of your New Year’s Eve plans! What a fun way to ring in the new year!
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It’s been really nice! The time seems to fly by
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A progressive dinner is a good way to ring in the New Year. I will probably be in bed before midnight this year. Have a Merry Christmas.
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It’s a nice way to wrap up the year.
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Big trips are so much fun!
I hope you get to enjoy some good Christmas movies soon. 🙂
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Thanks! Should have some time this weekend 🙂
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It must be so nice to see your kids randomly throughout the day, a bonus of being a high school teacher! I’ve seen a few of the kids’ Christmas movies but need to settle in with The Holiday and The Family Stone!!
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Oh I haven’t seen the Family Stone in forever
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I feel like this Christmas season is not the same, it feels rushed and not very festive for some reason! Only have a few days to try and do some Christmas Bucket List items!
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I agree. It does feel quick.
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