The Best of 2016

I always love the “best of” lists people write: best photos, best blog posts, best recipes, best everything. It’s such a glimpse into life, isn’t it? 2016 was beautiful, and hard, just like most years. With age, I’m starting to truly understand that no year is perfect, rather it’s our perspective that changes. We learn to soak up the joys and live in the moment for we know no milestones are guaranteed.

This was the first year, in nine years of blogging, that I haven’t religiously checked my blog stats. I think I just stopped caring so much about the numbers and started focusing more on what I was writing rather than how often I published it. For those that are new here, I’m so honored you found this space. For those that have been around for a while, I’m honored you stay. Truly. I can’t tell you how much I am humbled each time a blog reader emails me, or stops me at church, and says, “thanks for writing.” In the deep, dark vortex of the internet, I always wonder if what I’m saying ever gets read, and if it does, if it’s reaching anyone. So, thank you for being the best readers ever.

Best/Favorite Posts
There was a tiny chuckle as I pulled up the top five. All but one were written prior to 2016 and I suppose I can thank Pinterest for that. Ha! Below, I share a few “best of the best” in 2017 according to WordPress along with some of my favorites.

Disney, what’s not to love?

My love for Catholic schools is apparent and this post really dispels some myths (I hope)

Europe, we adored you. But, you don’t have to go across the pond to nurture your marriage.

Stellar still. Get those wands up.

Allllll the Europe posts. I just can’t help myself. Those 9 days were magic. If you’re on IG, just click on the #TexasinEuropefor20

Hat Tip to these Referrers
Isn’t it fun when people who aren’t related to you share your stuff? I remember back when my readership was four people: my mom, my mother-in-law, my husband and me. Not kidding. My biggest thanks to Pinterest, Facebook, Blessed is She, Twitter and Carrots for Michaelmas for sending folks this way.

Pinners Unite
I do love me some St. Pinterest. These pins were tops and I love the variety.

Pin it! It’s true, I’ll always love Harry. Right Snape?

Pin it! I just can’t quit Disney.

Pin it! Go ahead and get a head start on Lent this year.

Pin it! Admittedly, this was my favorite, right behind Harry.

2017: What to Expect
Honestly? I have no idea. Some bloggers write to support their families (which I think is awesome), but I write because I love it. At present, I think the blog breaks even monetarily. A few years ago, I used to map out blog posts and try really hard to make what I wrote match up with the liturgical year, motherhood struggles or birthday party ideas. Now, I just write when I feel like it. That might mean you hit the jackpot and get three posts from me in one week, but it’s usually more like five or six a month. And I’m 100% okay with that. I hope you are, too!

I have no doubt you’ll see some birthday and party planning posts (poker night is coming in January!), raising teenagers, navigating driver’s ed, parenting toddlers, home improvement projects, getting fit and the usual sassy Kathryn. If there’s something you want me to tackle, put it in the comments. I’m always up for a challenge.

There are a few speaking engagements and radio shows on my calendar for the new year, namely the Jennifer Fulwiler show in late January, and the Austin diocese women’s conference in September. I promise not to make Jen cry like I did last time I was on the show. I’m helping plan and host the Blessed is She Beloved Austin retreat on April 1 (please come!) and there’s a 10-year-old trip to organize.

We’ll see what God has in store for this space. I sure hope you’ll join me in 2017 as we ride the {virtual} waves of parenthood together. Happy New Year, y’all!