Looking Back to Look Ahead for 2020

It's a new year, friends! Happy January 1st! 

Here's what I was thinking about this time last year.  

I love seeing everyone's top nine from Instagram. Overdone? Maybe, but I think it's fun to be reminded of moments, both mine and other people's, from earlier in the year. It’s no surprise that Clara dominated again this year. Coolest kid, hardest worker, and wisest teacher. Clara sure is easy to love! But, I love that Camille is sprinkled in there, too, because her joy, tenderness, constant compassion, and forgiving spirit (usually gifted to me, ahem) keep us all grounded and running. 

Wrapping up 2019 thankful for all the memories made, milestones achieved*, lessons learned, and yes, even the growing pains. Pruning stinks (as does potty training a child with special needs OMGOSH), but it typically always develops fruit (if we let it).

I'm not really sure what 2020 will hold, but brave obedience and an abundance mindset are two themes God keeps bringing to mind for me this year. I'm sure He will give me plenty of opportunity to live both of these out in real time, hahahaha. (A lot like when you pray for more patience and God doesn't just give you more, but instead gives you opportunity to practice more patience. Fun times!) I/we  usually work through Jennie Allen's New Year Dream Guide, and will be working on it over the next few weeks. No crazy resolutions like in year's past (I die reading some old blog posts omgoodness), just overall themes and taking inventory of what worked well and what needs improvement in all different life areas (spiritual, relational, personal, health, and work). I have found this approach so helpful and useful to truly creating a life of direction and purpose. The guide is free on Jennie's site if that's something that would be helpful to you. 

Here's to an amazing 2020!

And who knows, maybe I will blog again before summer. :) 

*I took on a part-time freelance interviewing/writing job this year (one I can do from home around the girl's schedule), and also went into business with my sister selling Crowned Free, which has been so fun to do together. I do have some writing goals and projects for 2020 on my mind, so that is exciting, too (more to come)!