Happy New Year!

I love New Year's Eve.  It's a time to reflect, remember and look forward.  2012 brought so much change to my life.  I gained a lot of family, but I also lost my grandmother.  I am so thankful to have gotten to know Effie and to have spent 26 years with her on this earth.  She knew I was pregnant and was so excited about baby Raleigh.  I wish they could have met!  I wish she could have been here for at least the rest of the year, to celebrate with our family as we grew.  She passed away in March.  In May, my sister Amy got married; in July, Raleigh Katherine was born and ten days later, my sister Courtney got married.  Another one of her grandchildren (Alan) also got married over the summer.  In October, another great-grandchild was born.  Even with all the joy during these celebrations, there was always some sorrow because of her absence.  So, we've celebrated new family members, new life, and we continue to remember the ones who are no longer with us.

And now, we look forward.  Most people come up with resolutions, goals, hopes and plans.  I don't (come up with anything specific), because they're usually out the window come March January 2nd.  I look forward by envisioning myself as a better wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and most of all as a better Christian.  I will strive daily to glorify Christ in all that I do, even on the days when I don't leave the house.  God has blessed us more than we deserve and I want to show Him (and it will never be enough) that I am extremely grateful.

Matthew 5:16