Goodbye 2012, Hello 2013

First of all, let me apologize for my lack of blogging in the past couple of months. This happens to be one of my resolutions, so hopefully I'll get better in 2013. 

Since it is New Year's Eve, I thought this would be a perfect time to reflect on what an amazing year 2012 was for the Clayton's.

2012 was an exciting year to live in Indianapolis - the host city for Super Bowl XLVI. Although the committee planned this event for years, the final touches on plans and prepping the Circle City were in full force in January. Kudos to the committee for hosting one of the most successful Super Bowls in history and putting Indianapolis on the map for large-scale events. We had the pleasure of experiencing Super Bowl Village numerous times throughout the week. Our favorite part... the Zipline! I'm thankful I did my research and pre-purchased tickets - they were sold out everyday. 

After the excitement of the Super Bowl died down, we were putting the final touches on the next big event of the year (well, at least to us!) - our wedding! After a year and a half of planning every little detail, it was finally time to say I Do. From the bridal showers and bachelor/bachelorette parties to the ceremony and reception, we loved every minute of this time and feel extremely blessed for the special people we have in our lives. April 28th, 2012 was perfect. 

With all of the excitement of a wedding, there's also a ton of stress. What better place to relieve that stress than Jamaica? I can't think of a better place. We started our journey to Ocho Rios, Jamaica at the break of dawn on Monday after our wedding. (P.S. anyone getting married and planning a honeymoon, don't plan to leave on Sunday - you're WAY too exhausted.) After two planes and a bus ride, we finally made it to our fabulous resort. We adopted the country's motto, "No Worries," for the week and had the best time on the beautiful island. We didn't want to leave and can't wait to plan another trip back. 

After the honeymoon, our lives seemed to settle down and get back to our routine. In July, Ryan received a call that would end up taking our lives in a completely different direction. He was offered a job in Houston, TX and a month later we packed up our entire lives and moved across the country. It's been an exciting journey and we love our new home. We had the opportunity to travel back to Indiana for the holidays and it was very special to see familiar faces. A little too much snow for our liking since we've been spoiled with tropical temperatures, but it was a beautiful holiday. While driving back into Houston, Ryan and I both felt a sense of home. It's funny how somewhere you've only lived for a few months just feels right. 

2013 will be full of new experiences for the Clayton's and we couldn't be more excited. I have accepted a full-time marketing position at an energy company and will be starting in January. I'm thankful for the opportunity and ready to get back to work. 

Happy New Year!

Much Love,
The Clayton's