So, apparently I cook now. Who knew?

It was one of my New Year's goals - to actually make an effort to cook. I wanted for so long to be the one that fed my family. I was just always so lazy after a long day at work and then getting home to Ronnie already cooking dinner nearly every night just gave me an easy out. See, I don't cook and never ever have. Up until maybe a year ago, I'd never even cooked pasta for crying out loud! I could make eggs, bacon, pancakes and oatmeal though. Oh, and I CAN bake. I do that all the time! Baking's not the issue. It's cooking a meal that I just couldn't do. Or never really tried to do, I should say. It just didn't excite me and I just let myself ignore it but oh how that's going to change this year!

Ronnie has his new part-time evening job sooo who's gonna cook if he's not here? Having no choice was basically the best way to get me cooking! ha. And guess what?? I actually like it! I'm excited to try more recipes! So far this week I've made a meal every night. That's HUGE around here. They've been pretty basic, super easy meals but STILL. Mama. is. actually. cooking. I even had to document it on Instagram the other night, because that's what I do.

I'm proud of myself! Y'all don't even understand! I know cooking's just a thing that everyone does but not this girl. And my night was made that first night when Ronnie got home and I was already in bed but I get a text saying "Dinner is so good.". Night made, y'all. Then on Tuesday he complimented the meal again and said that he was really liking my cooking. He liked last night's meal too! It just makes me so happy to cook for him rather than the other way around. I feel so domestic!(ish) :)

I've started food boards on Pinterest that I'm excited to keep using - three of my meals this week have come from here!

Follow Jessica's board Crockpot on Pinterest.
Follow Jessica's board Healthy Yummies on Pinterest.

I have a few more goals for 2014 that I'll talk about soon but this was one of the biggies! Now, if I could actually get my child to eat those meals, I'd consider this a real win. She's the pickiest eater ever and rarely wants to eat anything but that's a whole 'nother post for another day. Ooh and if you have a favorite, go-to, super easy recipe, send it my way! :)

Bring it, 2014!

2014.

Can you believe it?!

I graduated high school in 2000, y'all. Excuse me while I go vomit. 

How in the heck did this year fly by so fast? I feel like I was just planning Violet's 1st birthday party and here I am, thinking about her 2nd. Slow. Down. Time. 

Definitely the most notable "memory" of 2013 was watching our baby girl turn into a full-fledged toddler. She started 2013 as a 10 month old and ended it as a 22 month old. Insane. I'm sure you can imagine how hard my mama heart is taking it but I know we enjoyed this year with her to the fullest and that's really what it's all about. I will always hold these memories with her close to my heart. She's just such an amazing little girl and I'm truly excited (and maybe a little broken hearted) to see her turn into a KID this year. It's already been such an amazing journey with her and I know next year at this time, I'll be shaking my head in disbelief again!

As for me, I've grown plenty too. Weight wise, well that's been up and down, but mentally, emotionally, professionally, I've seen so much change in myself. I have worked every day to become a better and more present mother, better organized in all aspects of life and much more focused on and excited about my career. All of those things need continued work and focus in 2014 and I also have a few other important goals for myself and my family.. and really, that's a whole post on its own!

Ronnie had to deal with some setbacks this year when it comes to school and his graduation date has unfortunately been moved a year (oh, another post for another day) but I think truly, it's been a blessing in disguise. He needed some time to recharge. He was stressed and some breathing space from school has been good for him. He ended the year by getting hired on as a part-time FedEx courier and we're SO excited! Great pay, great benefits and it'll work with his future school schedule.

In 2014, Ronnie and I will celebrate our 8th anniversary (!!), Violet will turn 2 and we'll celebrate 3 years in our home. Tons of good stuff and we have a couple of major things to work on this year. Details coming soon :) (and no, baby #2 isn't one of them, you insane people ;)

Here's a good chunk of our 2013 wrapped into 15 seconds. Kinda crazy.

I love my little family, our life and 2013.

It's been an amazing year but I'm ready for you, 2014!!