2009 Reflection

(from Christmas, 2009)

What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

-It's a tie between all things Bible study and getting engaged.

What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

-I decided that this was the year I would get serious about debt

What was an unexpected joy this past year?

-Meeting some of the most genuine and amazing friends

Pick three words that describe 2009.

-Growth, Nurture, Dedicate

What were the best books you read this year?

-I posted a few earlier this week, but didn't include them all; The Shack, Same Kind of Different As Me, Crazy Love (hands down a life changing book for me), The Heart of Christianity, Food Pets Die For. Each of these has truly helped shape who I am, from sorting out my faith to understanding food. I read another book about pet food but don't remember the name of it so it didn't make the list - after reading about what goes into pet foods, I changed Nola to Honest Kitchen, a raw, dehydrated, human grade food, and never looked back! (She still actually eats Wellness in the morning.).

With whom were your most valuable relationships?

-Bible Study girls, Chandler, Sister

In what ways did you grow emotionally?

-I came to grips with growing up and started a private blog to journal my feelings about moving to Boston... we now know, it will be Virginia - a much easier transition.

In what ways did you grow spiritually?

-I joined an online Bible Study that I found out about via Compassion's blog, met some amazing women, and found exactly what I was looking for and more than I ever imagined. I started reading The Heart of Christianity and learned about faith in general, and I am almost finished reading the Bible, cover to cover.

In what ways did you grow physically?

-In what ways didn't I grow physically? I became the most out of shape I've been in years. I didn't gain weight, but it's still not good!

What was your single biggest time waster in your life in the past year?

-Facebook; I enjoy reconnecting with friends, but probably spent too much time reading status updates, etc...

What was the biggest thing you learned this year?

-I realized that my life truly is not my own and defined ME

In 2009, my word was dedication. I think I did okay. As always, there are some things I would change if I could go back, but overall I believe I accomplished what I'd hoped. Moving into 2010, I've chosen simplicity and contentment. I'm excited about all the changes that will be happening, but I think these two words will keep me grounded. Chandler's word for 2010 is birth. I laughed at him so he changed it to creation. Umm...it should be an interesting year! ;)

What's YOUR word for 2010?