Top 10 Extraordinary Little Things I was Grateful for in 2010

The holidays came and went and 2010 ended as best as it could get for our family. I didn't get a chance to write a Thanksgiving post. I thought about it. Sure, we're all extremely grateful for family, friends, and good health but sometimes it's also a few of the little things that come to mean the most to us. Now we're in a new year and I think I have to pay written homage to the uncanny'things I was grateful for in 2010.  So, here is my list of the Top 10 Extraordinary Little Things that made my year.

1. Little Fingers and Toes: There is nothing like small hands that wrap around your neck in an embrace or small fingers that touch your face to explore (or innocently scratch or hit). Such small fingers and toes are a reminder of time and that they do not remain that way for long.
2. Noise: It is life. Sometimes, it is life on overdrive.
3. Silence: It is golden. I revel in it and enjoy it it in small doses. 
4. Being My Father's Daughter: My Dad lost his manufacturing job in mid to late 2009 at which he had been employed for more than 10 years; but he did not lose his optimism. He attended classes, learned new interviewing skills and compiled a resume. In February 2010, at age 60, he started a new career at a new company and I couldn't be prouder of him. He is the essence of poise.
5. The Science of Parenthood: Just when we thought we knew what were doing as parents of one child, Chris and I finally realized we were outnumbered with three this past year. It's a formula we're hoping to figure out.
6. The Art of Marriage: What began as a clean slate when Chris and I were first married five years ago has become a compilation of work in progress. It does require work and patience, but I wholeheartedly believe that this life - our life together - will be a beautiful masterpiece.
7. Our Own Supernanny: In February 2010 we hired K when I returned to work after my maternity leave. She loves our kids just as much as a supernanny can love children and it comforts me to know that they are in trustworthy care while I am away. She was the undeniably the right choice for us.
8. Wine: Merlot or Chardonnay? Why, yes, thank you.
9. Wine Accompaniments: The perfect pairing after 8:30/9 p.m. when all the kids were in bed were DVR'd shows like Dexter, Mad Men, Bravo marathon reality shows, AND yes, Jersey Shore. All mindless, guilty pleasures.
10. Lip Gloss, Haircuts and Color: I only get a few minutes to put on make-up, if at all. Thank goodness for Burt's Bees lip shimmers! And finally, ANY woman, especially a mom with kids, knows the feeling of going to get an overdue haircut and/or color and then stepping out of the salon feeling like a new woman. Which reminds me - to do: schedule appointment for 2011.

May your 2011 be full of extraordinary little things!