On the first day of this new year, I want to take time to adequately reflect on 2013 and all the blessings I experienced. Thinking about this past year, I can honestly say it was a year full of amazing moments, although it took me time to fully embrace this perspective. At the same time, it was filled with many challenges that were both incredibly painful and filled with sadness. There were many moments where I couldn’t figure out what God was doing or why He allowed some things to happen the way they did. Here I am of so little faith, but I am grateful that I continued to trust that His plan was sovereign. And like every other situation, it turns out He knew exactly what He was doing.
Now on the first day of 2014, I can look back and see all the hidden blessings and memories created. That’s right…even in the moments of pain I still felt so incredibly blessed.
I am beyond thankful for my family and friends who support and love me so well. I couldn’t do this life journey without each and every one of you by my side! Above all, I am so thankful to serve a gracious God who is always faithful.
And just like God tells us that “the old is gone, the new is come,” (2 Corinthians 5:17) I have closed the chapter of 2013 behind me and am fully moving forward to bigger and better things. And this year I mean that with every piece of my heart.
I have to be honest that I have never been great at setting new year’s resolutions. I probably should, and I am beyond impressed with those that do, but this year I am just going to focus on these simple things:
- My slate is clean and I am accepted.
- Grace abounds from our Heavenly Father.
- Fully embracing who I am.
- Continuing to grow closer to God as I follow Him.
These are enough new year’s resolutions to keep up with!
Last night was an introduction to how wonderful 2014 is going to be, as I rang in the new year with family and amazing friends. So, so blessed!
Here is a short clip of some of the blessings and wonderful experiences I had in 2013.
I am happy that I can say that I have finished this year stronger than ever. And I am so excited for what the future will bring.
Cheers to 2014 – I know it is going to be the best one yet!
Bring It On.
Angela
Iowanderlust 
Was just thinking of you today and was making a point to remember to touch base with you tomorrow.
2014 WILL BE YOUR YEAR, girl. I feel it. You’re just where God wants you to be, and where you need to be. Your confidence has flourished more, just within the last couple months, and I am so excited to see what you have in store for us this coming year.
You got this. Own it.
Thank you, friend! I appreciate your encouragement more than you will ever know. This is my year to own it…and that’s exactly what I am doing! Full speed ahead, this is my year and I CANNOT wait to get started. xoxo!
You got this. I know it.
“My slate is clean and I am accepted.” Wow…so much power in that statement! God’s sweet grace penetrates all of our hurt, dark, messed up places. Can’t wait to see you live this, Angela!
It feels so good to be able to say that! God’s grace penetrates it all, and it is so incredibly beautiful. Now you get to keep me accountable. 🙂
This is beautiful, Ang. I just want to copy and paste your first paragraph and take it as mine because it is much of what I experienced last year as well. Your resolutions are a great challenge, but you can do it!