This
past year I learned that I am stronger than I thought I was. I learned better patience,
and abundant love. I learned how to trust God more with my finances and the
health of my family. I discovered the true meaning of self-sacrifice while my
body was not my own for quite some time. I grew closer to my husband, even
though I thought we couldn't get any closer! I spent a lot more time with my
crazy but charming parents, siblings, nieces and in-laws. I excelled at my job
and was offered a new position that I'm excited to begin soon. I played games,
went on dates, shopped, cleaned, cooked, and nested. I gave birth to a sweet
baby girl and recovered from surgery. I breast fed, changed diapers, and conquered sleeplessness. I provided for my family, paid all my bills, and still managed
to celebrate Hanukkah and Christmas ... with presents!
I
am blessed, and I know it! The Lord has certainly provided for us in miraculous
ways, and I am grateful for all the opportunities I have been given this year.
The fact that I can bring my daughter to work with me, (and that her Daddy,
Uncle, and Grandpa can stop in and see her all day long!) is probably the most
unexpected blessing of the entire year. I'm sure there are many who wish they
had this ability, so I will not take it for granted! It hasn't always been easy
to work full time, take care of my family, and generally function as a new unit
of 3, but I wouldn't change one bit of my circumstances.
Having
a child is like baking a cake. Sure, you have to dirty the pans, the spatula,
the mixer and the bowl. You have to use up all your ingredients and waste electricity
heating the oven. You have to wait and wait until the cake bakes, and then wait
some more as it cools. You have to mess up the counter to spread the frosting
and add the sprinkles..... But then you get to eat cake.
..........
Anyway! .......... I hope everyone else had a fantastic year! Take a moment to
think about your blessings and accomplishments. If there seem to be too many to
count, thank the LORD! On with 2014! May it bring you great joy.
xoxo
Liz
