Top Picks of 2007

Ten Events of 2007 in the Life of Becca Maddox (some amazing, some incredibly painful - all life changing- changing my perspective forever)

1. My trip to Colorado with 16 amazing women on a 6 day hike in the "wilderness". Never did I expect to be moved and changed so much. I will forever hold these special memories in my heart.

2. I fell head over heals in love with my baby Caleb. I will admit that our first year as son and mother was hard. This second year has been a blast. He melts me with his smile and the way he says my name. I love him so much I could never put it in words.

3. My baby started Kindergarten. It was painful to acknowledge that he was growing up, but I am so proud of him. He is growing up and learning so much. I could never put into words either my love for Foster. He is my little man. (Perhaps in 2008, he will stay on the "Happy Road" more often at school)

4. I was reunited with my long lost 1st Grade teacher - Miss Fitzgerald. If you haven't read the story, scroll down to September. Janet and I talk every once in awhile and I love every second of it. She is everything I remember her to be and I still find myself looking up to her. I hope she knows how much she is loved.

5. Our tennis team went 19-0 this year. We made it to Sectionals and lost by 1 line to go on to Districts. Although we were sad to lose, I couldn't be more proud of who we are as a team. Most of us were moved up to the 4.0 level. We are going to stay together as a team and compete this coming USTA year. I couldn't ask for a better group of girls to be on the court with.

6. My mother-in-law passed away in October. I still feel in denial at times that she is really gone. I learn more as time passes how much I loved her. I am also learning more about the woman she was as we clean her house and prepare it to sell. There was so much to admire and some things we roll our eyes at; she was unique and corky in many ways, but I loved her so much. She will forever be missed.

7. God blessed us with new friendships this year. We feel like we have moved into a new level of friendships with people at church. There is a group of us who have started playing tennis together as couples. It is comical as we mix tennis players with non-tennis players. In my book, there is no better way to spend time with friends :)

8. My sister came for nearly 3 weeks this summer. I love every moment I get to spend with my sister. I also love every moment I get to spend with my niece Maggie. Scott, my brother-in-law isn't bad either :) We had a wonderful time being together. In a few weeks we are going to be making a road trip to Florida to see them. We can't wait!

9. I lost 25 lbs on Weight Watchers. I did gain a few back with the Holidays, but they will come back off. I plan to jump back on track and take a few more off to get back to my high school weight (or at least close to). I was tired of feeling uncomfortable in my own skin. I never want to be obsessive about my weight, but I want to be healthy and feel good. It is hard to find that balance, but I am going to keep giving it a try.

10. Jason and I celebrated our 12th year of marriage this year. I can't believe we have been married that long. I am blessed to be loved by such an awesome man. He still makes me laugh and he is a great father to our boys. I couldn't imagine life with any other person!

That sums it up. It has been a year of ups and downs. I am looking forward to 2008. Hopefully it will be filled with deeper friendships, fun memories, wins on the tennis courts, maybe another adoption, success in Jason's career, some home improvements, some great vacations, a deeper walk with our Savior, and some unexpected blessing for the Lord.

Picks for 2007

Best TV Show - Comedy: The Office

Best Sitcom Rerun - Reba (I'm watching all of them for the first time)

Best Talk Show - Ellen

Best Reality TV - The Biggest Loser and Dr G, Medical Examiner

Best Male Comedian - Kevin James

Best Female Comedian - Paula Poundstone

Best Podcast - Relevant http://www.relevantmagazine.com/podcast.php

Best Book: Broken In The Backrow - Sandy Patty

Best Band: Benjamin Del Shreve

Best Female Singer: Kelly Clarkson

Best Male Singer: Don Chaffer; Shane and Shane

I know these picks don't make a bit of difference to you, but it is fun to put the list together. Everyone, have a blessed 2008.

Until Next Time,

Becca