Moving on from 2013 to 2014.

I realized after reading my last post that I sounded way more cynical than I intended.  I don't want to give people the wrong idea.  I'm not a gloomy person, in fact I like to think I'm a glass half full kind of person most of the time.  I guess what I was trying to get at is that 2013 presented itself with challenges that at times defeated me and got the best of me.  Through my experiences I've learned that I need to change my perspective and realize that everything always works out.  Sometimes not in the way you imagined, but God always works it out.

 "We know God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them" Romans 8:28

I'm very hopeful and excited to see what 2014 brings.  Over the last few months I've realized the importance of having an eternal perspective rather than a worldly perspective.  It seems I've done Bible study after Bible study that teaches this very thought and just now I finally truly get it.

"In His great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.  This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by Gods power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  These have come so that the genuineness of your faith...May result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed...for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your soul." 1 Peter 1:3-9

That was a long couple verses to type, especially on the iPad, so excuse the dot dot dots, but I had to cut that one down :)

I want to make it my goal this year to remember our Heavenly inheritance He has provided, and that the trials we face will only mold and refine me into a better person. A person of stronger faith.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let your perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" James 1:2-4

These three verses really explain what I have learned and what I hope to keep with me through out 2014 and on.

On a lighter and fun note I thought I would list my top ten favorite moments of 2013 (in no particular order)

1. Camping - my dad was kind enough to give us his pop up camper to use this last summer, and we had a blast camping at different campgrounds with friends and family.
2. Samantha started kindergarten!  Its so fun to see her interact with her classmates and it's a joy to watch her knowledge grow.
3. Going to Victor ID/ Jackson WY to visit my best friend Kacey.  I love you and miss you!
4. Kacey getting engaged!  Couldn't be more happy!
5. Realizing we want to extend our family and add another crazy kid to our already crazy family.
6. This one is kind of weird; successfully potty training William.  Such a relief!
7. Having the best neighbors move in next door.  They have quickly become our great friends and their children are our children's best friends.
8. Receiving word that World Market is finally coming to Missoula.  This might possibly be Steve's nightmare.
9. Steve's new job that he started in February and has loved ever since. Plus he gets to work from home so me and the kids get to see him more, and he's always around when a spider needs to be put to death.
10. Surprising Steve on his birthday with a trip to Las Vegas.
11. (I know I said ten, but I can't leave this one out.) Being part of a Bible study that has not only taught me lots of Biblical truths and knowledge, but has produced amazing friendships that continue to encourage me and life me up.

Whew.  I'm done writing.  Happy New Year, again!