2013.

It's the last day of 2013, and honestly, I'm kind of relieved. I've never really felt this way before about closing out a year, but I am pretty happy to put this year behind me and move into another. Not that there hasn't been a lot of great memories, there has, but 2013 was probably the most challenging year for me personally as an adult. Between moving twice, health issues, emotional, mental, and physically changes and the hardships of parenting and marriage--it's been a long and trying year.

Though, with that said, I wouldn't change it. Without this past year I wouldn't be where I am today and here I sit finding rest in love. Without the trials I would never moved forward and learn what it means to love, find rest, be joyful, content and thankful. 2013 was a refining year for me, and though it's always hard to make changes it's always a good process and I have learned so much about life and love that I wouldn't trade it for an uneventful year. :)

For me, the year closes with a new move and settlement in a new house. But one thing I now know; home is not about where I live or what house I live in. :)

At the beginning of 2013 I wanted to slow-down…and looking back I think throughout the year I have been learning that very thing. I am thankful for that, despite that the year certainly didn't feel that way.

I am excited to open the doors to 2014. I don't normal set any resolutions, however I do think I want to step into this new year with the intent of living more simply, purposefully and with love.

One day at a time. Being present. Loving. And finding joy in all things. 

Happy New Year to you! :)

A Little Moment.

As my daughter grows older and changes constantly before my eyes I am often reminded of the fact that her character is blossoming and being defined with each passing moment. Amidst the emotional meltdowns, chaotic days, and the "Mom. Mom. Mom. Mom. Mom's" that make me want to pull my hair out. It's easy to overlook our child's chatter...especially when they talk all day long and especially when you're in the middle of doing something you need/want to do.

My girl was hanging around me today while I was doing some painting in our new bedroom, chatting away and asking lots of questions, like usual. Honestly, sometimes moments like these wear me out...the sound of constant talking while chasing around the 1.5-yr-old turkey while trying to finish what I'm doing and pay attention to "Mom, look at this! Mom, look at me! Mom, what is this? Mom, can you do this? Mom, mom, mom..."

But this time it was just me and her. And it was nice. And it made me realize that this little heart is being influenced by my actions day in and day out. I really should listen more.

Otherwise I'd miss conversations like this:


V: "Why does God live in my heart?"

Me: "Because he loves you so very very much."

V (entirely sincere): "Aww. That's so sweet."

Pause.

Then...really quietly...

V: "Mom?"

Me: "What, babe?"

V: "Why am I beautiful?"

This is when I stopped and realized that we were in the middle of a moment that was impacting my daughter's heart on a great level. I put down my paintbrush, bent down and looked her in the eye: "You are beautiful because of who you are.. You are caring, you are loving, you are nice and thoughtful, you are smart and funny, you are sweet...all of those things make you beautiful."

And I saw something amazing happen. I saw her little heart shine as she accepted my answer and soaked in its truth.

Yes, baby girl. Accept that beauty. Embrace it. And shine.

Always.