Well, 2011 sure was a wonderful, crazy year! I got to marry my best friend and begin our lives together! It was a year of endings, beginnings, mountain peaks and valleys low. The Lord has been so good to me. He has remained faithful, even when I have not. He has provided for Jared and I in ways that have strengthened, and continue to strengthen, my faith. I have learned that He likes surprises, and yet, nothing is a surprise because everything is possible with Him. He has assured me of His plans and reminded me of His goodness. I have seen Him work in the lives of my family in powerful ways. He has shown me that trials are there to develop perseverance and to deepen my trust and reliance upon Him. Although that isn't the easiest thing to learn. It will continue to take work in considering it joy when there are tough things happening. Yes, the Lord has been good to me indeed.
I'm not sure why, but this year, more than any other year, the new year has refreshed me. It really does feel like a fresh start. Not that I needed one, considering last year was definitely one of the bests. But I have spent more time considering what I want to focus on this year, changes I want to make, new adventures, and discovering more and more where the Lord wants to use me. I'll be honest, things are quite uncertain for me about this coming year. It surprises me that I am excited about what's to come because I have no idea what exactly that is. But God has given me a sense of peace. I know that He is in control and is faithful and it is because of this that I can live an abundant life, even when things are not so clear.
So here's to a fresh start. I'm learning to live this life how God intended. I'm excited for a year of new adventures with my Husband! I'm excited to meet my niece, who will grace us with her presence in a few weeks! I'm excited to start some new projects (more on that to follow later this week). I'm excited to grow closer to God as He challenges me more every day. And I am humbled, that He makes everything new in His time. I am blessed beyond words can explain.
