"Last year at this time..."

It's that time of year again, we're all making resolutions, discussing the past year, committing to make the next year different, to finally break that habit, to finally take that trip, its an exciting time of year for sure! One phrase I seem to hear a lot in December is, "Last year at this time..." we all love to reflect on what we were doing 365 days ago, so much changes in those 365 days! I personally have been thinking A LOT about last year at this time, and I decided today was a good day to finally stop and write down what's been churning in my heart as I remember, last year at this time.

Well..... last year, December 29th, 2013 I was supposed to get married meaning today would have been my 1 year wedding anniversary - I would be living somewhere in Florida, a military wife. It's pretty difficult to put into words all that I've learned over the last year, and all of the ways that God has blessed me. When I was left un-engaged, unemployed and living with my parents, I was pretty sure there was no pleasant way out, but God had a different plan. I've often compared my recent story to that of the Israelites, God rescued me and then provided for me in ways I could never have imagined! I was only unemployed for two months, and while this left me with some uncertainty it gave me some focused time to grieve, wrestle with and grow close to my Savior. Then God blessed me with the perfect nanny job, I got to snuggle with, tickle and play with a 3 month old baby, I could wear sweats, cry, read, sleep, it was the perfect way to slowly heal! While I was caring for baby Kate God blessed me with the perfect home, he laid it right in my lap! I love my cozy condo! Then, my favorite, completely out of the blue God blessed me with my dream job! I absolutely LOVE working for College Park and am daily blown away by God's provision for me in this job. Not to mention, it's across the street from my condo.

In addition to all of these tangible blessings, God has placed some absolutely incredible people in my life! I do not know where I would be without the support of my family and friends! Thank you Mom, Dad, Erin, Tyler, Jacob and Jack for sticking with me through those long months, for crying with me, giving me a roof over my head and continuing to preach truth to me, even when I didn't want to hear it! Thank you Jeri, Janna and Amanda for being there at a moments notice whenever I needed some distraction! Sara for the weekend get-away, Sally for hanging with me on that yucky day, and so so many others! I am blessed, so blessed!

A friend told me the other day that she often forgets what I went through just a year ago because my life is so full - what a miracle! I have to tell this story because it's is such a powerful story of God's love and mercy. He didn't have to do any of this! I am overwhelmed at His love for me and how He chose to rescue me and bless me beyond my dreams! There are still lonely days, and painful memories, but He is healing me, walking right beside me every step.

Thank you Lord for the last 365 days, I am ready for whatever you have for me in the next!