How did the year go by this fast? It’s like I blinked a few times and suddenly the end of December is here and it’s time for a new calendar. Looking back through this year’s calendar brings back so many memories like my daughter graduating from kindergarten, my son’s first Holy Communion, our California road trip and a long list of wonderful moments that I don’t want to forget.

For as long as I can remember, we’ve kept our past year’s calendars as keepsakes, and of course we have hundreds and thousands of pictures that capture special times. I look at our Snapfish album throughout the year but the calendars get stored away somewhere that I don’t even remember so they’re out-of-sight-out-of-mind.

But 2013 is going to be different! Have you seen this fun memory jar idea floating around Pinterest? I actually saw it this time last year but didn’t make it happen. Next year, we’re going to make a memory jar, though. I love the idea of collecting our special moments in this visual way. Have you done something like this before? It’s something fun that we can add to our dinner conversation too.

Memory Jar by Stephanie Moore

This is a bit of a strange week with holidays, hopefully a visit to the snow, kids out of school, me working (a bit) so here’s a meal plan that should cover it all.

Monday – Short ribs from Pioneer Woman over rigatoni pasta, salad on the side (yes, this should look familiar. We had these short ribs for Christmas and loved it so we’re making it again, over pasta!)

Tuesday – Hoppin’ Johns (happy new year!)

Wednesday – Winter minestrone by the Barefoot Contessa (she’s one of my favorites!)

Thursday – Roasted chicken with crispy smashed potatoes (haven’t tried them? so fun and tasty!) and salad

Friday – Pizza and game night!

Short Ribs by Pioneer Woman

Here’s to a fabulous year ahead for all of us! Happy new year!