Welcome, 2010.

As each of you rings in 2010 tonight, in your own cities, in your own special way, I wish you nothing but love, laughter and happiness for 2010. So many of you and your posts have inspired me to embrace 2010 with wide open arms, and invite this new year to take off its shoes, kick up its feet and stay awhile. Perhaps even for dinner.

So, 2010, I am ready for you and whatever you may bring. I am hoping that, like a good houseguest, you bring me:

* My first year of marriage, as I continue to grow with and love my best friend. Perhaps some discussions about children as well?

* A kick-a$$ 30th birthday and the mindset that 30 is the new 20.

* A trip to Europe.

* A new challenge at work.

* And the constant remembrance of this saying: "Too blessed to be stressed."

However, I am also going to do a few things to make your stay more enjoyable:

* I am going to eat breakfast each morning AT HOME, and NOT in the car on my way to work. And while I will NEVER give up my Starbucks habit, I do promise that I won't count my sugar-free vanilla latte with soy milk as breakfast alone.

* I am going to re-design this bloggity blog. I am tired of the default template, and 2010 is anything but boring.

* I am going to run the Indy 500 Half-Marathon AND sign up for the Chicago Marathon. I cannot guarantee that I will run the full marathon (I've trained for two but never actually ran them), but the third time's a charm, right??? And I intend to stay positive.

* I am going to save $________ from each paycheck. Don't worry, I have that number in mind. It's big, but I think I can do it. We need to save for Europe, lofts and babies, y'all.

* I am going to sit in silence for 10 minutes each day. I know that's not a lot, but hey, it would make all the difference to my mental stability.

* I am going to cook one new meal for my hubby each month.

* I am going to read one new book each month. (Any suggestions???)

Whew. Ok, 2010, I think I am ready for you. And if for some reason, I should become irritated by you and your extended stay, perhaps you can help me to remember what's important in life:

(image via we heart it)