One year ago today we were living out of 3 suitcases in a hotel eating breakfasts at the buffet and doing laundry in the sink. The boys were navigating their way through the first day at school full of complicated schedules, multiple uniforms, and new expectations. Micah was beginning his job with new responsibilities and staff. And I was holding my breath as I learned to drive on the other side and prayed that we would find our place.
Sometimes it feels like we've still just arrived. I find myself still telling people "we are the new family." But then I look back at where we started and I can see how far we've come.
A year ago I would never have imagined having a job that I enjoyed and challenged me so much. A year ago I would never have imagined that the boys would take off to friends houses on their bikes as soon as they got home from school. A year ago I would never have imagined our new favorites--an Indian meal, a quiet secluded island, a comfortable and loving church in a strip center above a restaurant.
This reflection is so needed for me right now.
Guys. Let me let you in on a little secret.
This year has been HARD. Like, crazy hard. Everything feels so difficult and I am truly exhausted. We've had some great moments and experiences but we've also hit some bumps in the road. Housing problems, illnesses, frustrations, homesickness-sometimes it's felt more than overwhelming. We've had to change the way we live. We've held on tight to each other and drowned whoever was struggling in love as we dragged them along. It's been an adventure, to say the least.
There have been days that feel never ending. I can't possibly make it through. Yet, here we are. The moments we've experienced, good and bad, have led us to today. Today one year later.
God is amazing. He has provided every challenge, smile, frustration, hug, tear, and peace. Even when I think I've figured it out, He throws something unexpected at me. I am not the person I was one year ago. What God has given me has changed me, made me grow. I am becoming...
I don't know how to finish that sentence. I honestly have no idea what I am becoming. I have no idea what this next year brings. But God does. He leads me, and I follow. He accepts me as I am, in my bad days and good days. He gives new grace every day and I desperately accept.
So bring it on, 2016. I don't know what struggles and joys lie ahead but I trust in Him and remain faithful. I am grateful.
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8.
