Reflecting on 2006

This is a blog that I found that I had posted at the beginning of 2007. I was reflecting on what I have been through in 2006. As I am reading this it begin to stir up in me the same feelings and emotions that I felt back at that time. God has begun to show me new things just from this blog that I wrote 3 years ago. He is reminding me of how hard things were at that time. Being a single mom, getting back in the work scene after being a stay at home mom for over 5 years, trying to raise my children the best I could and trying to help them through their struggles of having divorced parents. At the same time learning to cope with feelings of failure, guilt, shame, loneliness and the loss of friendships. 2006 was a very hard and trying time for me and as I look back and see how God has taken care of me and my life, I smile. God has always been on my side and he continues to heal my soul!! God is going to use what I have been through for his glory.

January 01, 2007

A NEW YEAR..A NEW BEGINNING Looking back on the year 2006 I realize all the things that I am grateful for and all that I have been given. I have 2 wonderful children who are the joy of my life. They are God's gift to me. They keep me on my toes and keep a smile on my face. Riley has grown up so much during this last year and has just amazed me at how smart he is. He loves outdoors and sports. As long as he is running he is the happiest kid in the world. Alexa is just your typical girly girl. Loves to pretend and be a princess and loves to play with her dolls and dance with her mommy. As I sit and think about my life in 2006 I wonder what I could have done differently and what I could have changed. I come to realize that I would not change anything. The good times and feelings of happiness will turn to memories and will bring a smile to my face. The hurt, pain, tears and mistakes of the year will only serve to make me stronger. I feel I have accomplished alot during this past year. Going to Angola and having the opportunity to impact a prisioners life and reunite them with their children was a huge blessing for me, but one of my greatest accomplishments is understanding that I have a voice in life. I don't have to sit and be silent. I can make my own choices, decisions and I can be happy and confident with myself. I look forward to the amazing ways God is going to use me this year and the people that I hope to impact in a positive way. During this year I have come across some amazing people. People who have made a huge impact on my life and for them I am so grateful. There are so many that have taught me so much and have given me listening ears, understanding, patience, shoulders to cry on, a kick in the pants when needed, laughter and most important helps put a smile on my face. We should always remember that God determines who walks into our life..its up to you to decide who you let walk away and who you let stay. Always surround yourself with people who lift you up and encourage you. Don't let those who bring you down and discourage you stay in your life. I am anxiously looking forward to this new year and what God is going to do in my life. I have alot of challanges to face this year but I have faith that God will do exactly what he says he will and that is take care of and protect his children. My prayer for us all is that we chose to be happy in this new year we have been given. Happiness is a choice that we have to make. Enjoy life and enjoy the freedom that we have. Look at everyone through God's eyes and don't judge people for their past mistakes. Let go of your anger and bitterness and turn it into forgiveness and love and your year will be blessed beyond measure. Most importantly keep God first in your life and always praise him for what he has given you. This is a new year and a new beginning.... Happy New Year