'Tis the Season!!

I know it has been such a long time since I've gotten the chance to blog! Life has a way of keeping you super busy--but I always say that if life isn't keeping you occupied, you should be worried!  I've had so much on my mind to share lately, but I had the chance to read a devotional that a friend posted the other day, and it really sums up everything that's been floating around in my head:

"My plan for your life is unfolding before you. Sometimes the road you are traveling seems closed, or it opens up so painfully slowly that you must hold yourself back. Then, when the time is right, the way before you suddenly clears--through no effort of your own. What you have longed for and worked for I present to you freely, as pure gift. You feel awed by the ease in which I operate in the world, and you glimpse My Power and My Glory.

Do not fear your weakness, for it is the stage on which My Power and Glory perform most brilliantly. As you persevere along the path I have prepared for you, depending on My strength to sustain you, expect to see miracles--and you will. Miracles are not always visible to the naked eye, but those who live by faith can see them clearly. Living by faith, rather by sight, enables you to see My glory."

What a perfect thought to embody this time of year--for what it means--the gifts that we have been given so freely that can't be wrapped and put under a tree.  If anything, I definitely rejoice this year at the amazing gifts that I have been given by God that I absolutely and most definitely do not deserve.  New babies (so excited to be a Tee Tee!), new friends and new relationships, and new memories that make even the most difficult of days from my past seem so much further away.  Turning around and looking back down a road you've walked down doesn't make you weak or wistful--I think it actually makes you stronger--to be able to look back at a time in your life where you weren't where you weren't at a place of peace and not where God wanted you to be. It makes me so much more grateful for where I'm going.

Christmas time is such a happy time!

During this season and as we charge on to the beginning of a new year, I am so glad that God kicked me in the rear and moved me one step closer to where He ultimately wants me to be. I'm thankful for the moments of absolute despair and self doubt--and weakness--because those moments have allowed me to truly learn about who I am and how much I really don't control--and let me tell you, the sooner you realize that, the quicker God is able to move and do some pretty awesome things. :) I'm still awestruck by the things that have been happening in my life everyday that make me realize God wants more for me than I could have ever imagined for myself.  Surrendering yourself and acknowledging your limitations is probably the most powerful thing you can do for yourself.  Living in the peace of your faith and knowing that God has your back, no matter what, is an amazing feeling!

I hope everyone has an amazing holiday season filled with family, smiles, good food, but most importantly...love. :o)