Goodbye 2011...

Well...there are only about 5 hours left in 2011. I can't really say that I'm too sad about that. I think it is safe to say that 2011 has been the most difficult year to get through so far. We have had so many trials this year...Ashley's mental health battles, Matt's dad passing away, difficulties at work, more of Ashley's mental health battles, financial difficulties, contention with Matt's family, Ashley leaving, and finally, Matt's hospitalization. I have definitely learned not to say that things can't possibly get worse, because every time I do, they do. This has definitely been the year of praising in the storm and dancing in the rain! I have cried more this year, been at the end of my rope more this year, and been in survival mode more this year than any other year I can remember...

But, a lot of positive came from all the hard situations we went through.

For starters, the more I face difficult situations, the more I feel drawn to God. Needless to say, I feel closer to Him than I ever have before. I have truly had to place 100% trust and faith in Him and His plan. I have laid my worries and concerns on Him, and relied on His grace to sustain me. He is my lifeline, and I know that I can do anything, be anything, and get through anything when He is on my side!

I have also been drawn closer to Matt through all of this. I can only thank God for giving me such an amazing partner in life. I don't know of many couples that would have survived everything we have been through. Most would have either killed each other or thrown in the towel and walked away. But, we are different. When the chips get down, he is the first person I turn to. He is my anchor, and we get through things together. He gives me love and support like I never imagined possible. Every day I fall more in love with him, every day I feel closer to him, and every day I learn just how much we can actually endure when we do it together. Every trial we face only strengthens our love and committment.

For me, personally, I have learned just how strong I can be when I have to. I wish I had a nickel for everytime someone had said to me, "I just don't know how you do it all." I would be able to buy a private island and live on a beach somewhere for the rest of my life! But, I can't really blame people for asking me how I do it. I do have a lot on my plate. And, if I really stop and think about it, I get overwhelmed with everything I have to do on a daily basis. My answer to that question is easy, though. I don't do it by myself. God helps me with everything I do. It's truly amazing what you can accomplish with His help. By myself, I would never be strong enough to have made it through this year. I would have crumbled a long time ago. But God continues to show me how strong I can be if I lean on Him for help.

Even still, I am very ready to bid 2011 a fond farewell! I am thankful for the lessons I have learned and the positive things I have gained, but still ready to turn the page and start writing a new chapter! In the last few hours of 2011, here are my closing thoughts...

• Surround yourself with positive people. Life is too short to spend your time on people who tear you down and make you feel bad.
• Hold on to the people you love with all your heart. When things get tough, they are the ones who will hold you up.
• People are not always who or what they seem on the surface. Take your time to find out the truth before making assumptions or judgements.
• Love with all your heart, even if you get hurt in the process.
• Don't give up on the people you believe in. It may take awhile, but in the end they will not disappoint you.
• I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:13
• And, most importantly...when you find yourself in the middle of a storm, continue to praise God!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!