2011...2012

I did this last year, and thought I'd take a moment to reflect and look forward to this coming year as well! Happy New Year! :)

11 Words to describe 2011...

1. God-filled

2. Amazing

3. Challenging

4. Bittersweet

5. Changing

6. Persevering

7. Rewarding

8. Grateful

9. Cherished

10. Blessed

11. Perfect

11 Things Learned in 2011...

1. God can and will make things happen! Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

2. Be grateful for friends...moving away from friends helps you discern the difference between good friends and mere acquaintances. And that's ok.

3. You won't and can't agree with everyone. Realize that sometimes people will rationalize and justify anything just to be right...let them. The important thing is that you do what is right for you and your family.

4. Shane and I still are an incredible team, when I'm with him, there is nothing we can't conquer!

5. Enjoy this "never to be returned to you" season of life. These memories are priceless - write them down!

6. My new job rocks! It may be 24/7 with no pay and no vacation time, but all the other benefits are out of this world! It's sad, but I rarely think about or miss my old job...I only miss the people.

7. I've found a new level of respect for my husband, as the sole provider of our family, he works hard. I appreciate all he does for us!

8. My son is incredible! He is simply the best. Spending my days with him and seeing him grow and flourish lights up my life. I am so grateful that I am able to see him learn and discover everyday. And so proud when he obeys and his personality shines bright!

9. Finding time to spend with God is important! It's how I get filled up, recharged and focused on what is important.

10. It doesn't have to be well with your circumstances to be well with your soul!

11. All burdens and blessings come from God. And his grace is sufficient for me to carry each burden and blessing. Praise him always!

12 Hopes for 2012...

1. Intentionally be more prayerful and in the Word...continuously growing towards God. (This seems to remain at the top each year)

2. Look for ways to express more love and serve my husband.

3. Love on my son as much as humanly possible...I want to seize these fleeting moments of his toddlerhood.

4. I want to learn more ways to cook for Zay and our family. New recipes, new foods and new ideas for making food for our entire family.

5. Carve out time for more exercise.

6. Read, read, read. I did better in 2011, but I would like to still make time for more.

7. Tune into where God is leading our family. Find a church home and become involved. Possibly find a permanent home and town this year? And hopefully find a small group and/or friends to 'live life with'.

8. Achieve patience and consistency in parenting our toddler. Along with learning how to teach him everything from the ABC's to important character qualities.

9. Enjoy family and friendships...and hopefully make some new friends in our new community...wherever that ends up being!

10. Organize and continue to simplify our home and life!

11. Document more...pictures, stories, memories! I want to remember everything from this season of our life!

12. Embrace all of life's blessings and be thankful.