Happy New Year 2014!

My posts are usually a bunch of Wilson pics with an occasional word describing each one.  Before I unload all the Christmas fun we had (because it was AMAZING), I decided to give New Years a little attention.  We rang in the new year at Cameron's house in Lexington with some friends.  We met my parents for dinner before the party and sent Wilson home with them.  He prefers that anyway.  It was a fun night!

New Years is the perfect time to remember the past and start new.  2013 was a a great year for us.  It was filled with joy, laughter, tears, and lots of learning.  I know we became a family of 3 in 2012, but it wasn't until 2013 that I felt like we really clicked.  And believe me, we're still clicking.  I learn something new every day about being a wife, a mom, a daughter, a sister, a friend, and most importantly, a Believer.  I hope to become better at all of these roles.

We made a big change last year spiritually when we left our small group.  We are still going to the same church (First Baptist Spartanburg), but we did make a change leaving some of our closest and first friends in this city.  It was hard to say goodbye to that comfort, but I am thankful for the new friendships we've formed.  God always knows what He's doing, and He doesn't make mistakes.  I'm thankful He led us to these new friends, and I pray He grows us in many ways this year.  I hope to be intentional with my quiet time every night.  I want to attend church every opportunity we can get.  Wilson was not a fan of the nursery last year, and we allowed that to limit our church attendance.  Luckily, he's getting more comfortable there.  I want to learn to have complete faith in the Lord and to fully rely on Him.

Lots of learning that happened in 2013 is in regards to parenting.  Ask my dad, and he'll tell you.  I read way too many parenting books.  I also think I listened to way too much advice.  Don't get me wrong.  I LOVE advice, when it's asked for.  Being a mom is so rewarding, but equally challenging.  I am finally learning to do what I think Wilson wants and needs, not what my best friend did, what the book says to do, and even not what my mom did for me.  I am Wilson's mommy, and Wilson is my baby.  There's no other mother-son relationship out there that is OURS.  I am beyond thankful to the Lord for blessing me with that child, and being his mommy is one of the best things that ever happened to me.  I pray I can grow as a mother and learn to give Wilson the love, discipline, and knowledge he wants and needs.  I welcome the learning opportunities the Lord will provide, and I hope Wilson knows how much he means to us.

2013 was a big year with regards to being a wife, too.  There's a new balance to figure out, and I am certain I will forever struggle with it.  Wife, mom, and physician assistant.  My time, energy, and love is divided.  I don't want to give 100% at work and be left with 0 when I come home to my family.  I currently work 3.5 days a week, and it seems to be a perfect balance for our family.  I am able to get out of the house and help my patients yet still have time to be a wife and a mom.  I hope Caleb understands why I'm snappy in the morning when I'm trying to pack Wilson's lunch, kiss Caleb goodbye, and still make it to work only 15 minutes late on time.  I think it's very important for us to still make time for that simple kiss goodbye and that kiss hello after a long day.  Even if we're running late, Wilson's screaming, or whatever else, I love that we both value that.  

So, in 2014, I want to cherish the small things, like Wilson grabbing my hand to take me wherever he's going, Caleb taking me on an impromptu lunch date, and the dinner my mom surprised me with when I get home.  I want to be more intentional to count my blessings. And I want to slow down and enjoy all these blessings!

Happy New Year to you all, too!  

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11