Lessons from a Father: 2013

http://tcpca.org/sermon/the-pursuit-of-solitude-and-solidarity/

This was last week's sermon from the church I have been attending and will most likely join here in the next month or so.

I listened to it this morning and was partially convicted but more than that I was encouraged. I have been in a semi dry place in my relationship with God where I just haven't made time to pursue him and sit down to read his word.

My goal as directed by the pastor is to make this happen in this next week to block out no less than an hour from my week to go to a quiet place and meet with my God. I smile when I think about this because I'm sure those first few moments will be almost awkward as it is so out of the ordinary to be completely and utterly alone but I also smile because I know the peace and rest that will come from that time as it has in the past for me.

6 months ago yesterday I turned 22. Ten years ago I would have said 22 is a ripe old age but i'm now thinking I was very mistaken. When I look back on the past 6 months and 2012 as a whole have included some big changes and lots of firsts! I graduated from college, got into grad school, turned 22, moved to a new state, started a REAL job (well grad assistantship), started my masters degree, living in a house(not a dorm), have 3 new random roommates, have a whole new set of friends, live 5 minutes from my sister (haven't lived in the same state for the past 11 years), spent Thanksgiving away from my parents, saw my new baby niece Abigail Claire (twice!), a first visitors (Leeann & Luke!) tried new churchs(still trying to find a permanent one), and lots, LOTS more!

So much as changed and although hard at times I'm learning to accept change knowing it only draws me closer to the Lord. I'm so thankful for the many people I have in my life who are spread throughout this country and world. I look 1 week back and 51 weeks ahead with bright eyes and excitement knowing that this year has so much to offer!

Here are some photos of the past six months..

Hiking and Making Friends

Bourbon Country

Road Trip to first NFL game!

Pumpkin Carving & Seed Roasting

Making Pretzels with these precious 2

Abigail Claire

These boys and sunsets I will forever cherish. They welcomed me with kindness, laughter, forgiveness, and a whole lot of grief (the good kind). I will never forget my first team.