New Year = A Time To Reflect

As 2010 drew to a close I found myself with many moments left for reflection. Contemplating a year with more ups and downs than I may have ever anticipated at its beginning. It was in mid-December that my third Blogiversary also went without mention, mostly due to Advent and Christmas preparations and general slowing down of the season. It was this place, With A Hopeful Heart, that was sparked by an unexplained infertility diagnosis, an unknown territory for me. It was also here that I was drawn to more faithful reflection, new friends and more heartfelt writing and posting than I had anticipated.

In pondering 2010 and looking ahead to 2011, I couldn't help but be fascinated by God's grace and His perfectly knit plan. I do not take lightly that I am blessed beyond measure with an amazing husband, two healthy children and a little one stirring in my womb. I do believe I couldn't have become more grateful for all of these if I hadn't become more drawn to the crosses laid before me, but also the graces lavished upon me to carry those crosses.

The road has had plenty of bumps and many of them I shared here with you. The second half of this year was also filled with many roses amongst the thorns that were scattered upon my path. With watchful eye, many of these were not lost on me.

I look ahead to eagerly embracing what lays ahead of us in the new year. We mostly wait in anticipation that 2011 is the year in which our prayers are answered and Baby Blessing arrives. That alone makes this a year to definitely look forward to in our house!

Because, in His perfect timing and many lessons along the way, He fulfills His promise of LAUGHTER again.

Oh, how we are enjoying the laughing...


May your 2011 be blessed with health, happiness, tranquility, peace and lots of laughter!