New Years Eve

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We had a very special New Years Eve this year. We spent it quietly with my folks and the kids.
We (okay, the guys) braai-ed and the girls lent a hand in the kitchen making dessert.


I did some Pintrest prep beforehand and came armed with 'worksheets' and coloured pens for some interesting family activities later in the evening.

Each one of us (kids included) filled out a sheet looking at how to set goals. We also looked back at 2013 highlighting our favorite memories, our sad moments and lessons we learnt. For 2014 we each chose a word, outlined our hopes and brainstormed personal, practical steps to ensure success in areas that are important to us.


This is the first time we have ever done something like this.  Goals. Resolutions. Plans. All this jargon often attract criticism but We NEED goals. That is how we, personally,  are wired.



 Once we had all completed our questionnaires/activity sheets we all took turns to read out our answers. There is a real vulnerability in this and it was very special to have this multi-generational experience. It gave the kids a chance to see us (their parents and grandparents) as real human beings with strengths and weaknesses. With struggles and heartfelt desires. With joys and regrets.


It also gave me the chance to witness the true giants that reside in my kids.  Yes, they call each other names and do ridiculously annoying things like put empty cereal boxes in the cupboard BUT they are truly remarkable. Set the bar high and they will rise to it. 



okay, we let him sparkle at 2315 because he really wasn't keen on the midnight wait!

three sparkly, awesome little people

We had no plans to stay up and see the new year in but somehow we all found ourselves awake as midnight fell upon us. (barr Levi who simply said NO MORE at 2315 and put himself to bed!) 

We celebrated with some sparklers and thanksgiving to our Father who takes us forward into a new season in 2014.

Comments

MrsLG said…
Lovely way to spend NYE. We also had sparklers and it was just the three of us - but fun because some legit fireworks appeared unexpectedly.
January 6, 2014 at 10:18 PM
allie. said…
An unforgettable evening
In so many ways.
The exercise sure sparked something in me and I agree, it was remarkable to see what your children came up with. I was gobsmacked at their ability to think so clearly about things.
Sparkly little people indeed.
And their mama is pretty sparkly too!
January 6, 2014 at 11:29 PM
Unknown said…
Sounds so amazing my friend!
January 7, 2014 at 12:01 AM
Raine Edwards said…
Flip, I LOVE what you did!!!
January 9, 2014 at 8:23 PM
Lynette Jacobs said…
What an awesome way to spend the last day of the year....and what is your word?
January 17, 2014 at 1:08 PM
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