Happy New Year!!!

I can not believe this year is over!!! What an incredible ride it has been!! I can not remember a time that has been so fulfilling .  A year ago today we were one week away from a journey of a life time.  On January 8th we boarded a plane ( the first time for my Scott ) and flew half way around the world and landed in Beijing, China.  And there we started the most incredible 2 weeks of our lives.  I will post more about that in the coming weeks as we celebrate the anniversary of Sierra's homecoming.

Lots of wonderufl things have happened:

I was able to take a leave from work...with a job guaranteed when I return

In April I started working weekends at Kelders Farm...by far the best job, working with the best people, that I have ever had.

Our understanding of the plight of orphans has grown and we now have such a spot in our hearts for those children without Moms or Dads.

We met amazing families and acquired lifelong friends( that would be you, John and Diane and all the others!!!) on our trip to China.

We are sponsoring a beautiful little girl who resides at the same orphanage that was Sierra's home for 3 years

I am looking at the world agian through the eyes of a toddler/preschooler...and oh it is such a reminder of how life should be.  Just the other day after I scolded her for something Sierra said."Mama please don't talk so hard.  Please talk softer!!!" I promise Sierra.... I will try!!!!

My understanding of just how much God loves us and what He has done for us has reached a new level.  I am looking foward to finding ways to serve Him better.

I have talked with people and "met" people in the adoption community all over the US and abroad.  It is awesome to share stories and reach out to others for support.

I have grown myself as I try to be the best Mom and wife and self that I can be.

And.... oh yeah....  I turned 50!!!!!!

And of course as in every year their have been sorrows as well:

In April I lost a good friend Art, whose wife and family and friends still miss him tremendously.  He was one of a kind and his brave, long, battle with brain cancer will be forever an inspiration to me.

My father in law is facing a reoccurance of his cancer that he first had 7 years ago.  We pray for a good outcome this time as well.

And the sorrow that is still fresh  in our hearts, the too soon passing of our sweet friend Grace.  Her family has taught me the true meaning of God's grace and I am in awe of their unwavering faith and love.

And so we will usher in a new year...a new decade.  I am grateful for all that I have and look foward to the new adventures that are in store for me.  I know there will be sorrows too and I pray for the strength to face those trials.

I wish to you all, my friends, a very, healthy, and Happy New Year!!!