2011 is going to go down as the year of my dad. I would love to wax poetic and say how amazing this year was because through the trials, it caused me to grow, to gain a deeper sense of the Lord, but the stark reality is… that it just plain sucked.
Financially we hit a wall, and continued to hit it time after time with my dad’s situation.
We lost another pet.
My personal family was apart for far too long, though we would do it again… for family.
I held my dad’s hand as he took his last breath and moved on to the next chapter of his journey. Leaving far too soon.
I had to look my babies in the eye and try desperately to explain why their prayers weren’t answered the way we all thought they should.
Continuing to struggle with that – trying to help them maneuver through the mine field of grief while not even able to deal with my own.
On the up side, and yes, there are positives…
I QUIT SMOKING! I am closing in on the 3 month mark, woo hoo!
We have chickens, bok! bok!
My mom is (for the moment) living with us.
My college education is going to continue in the next few weeks (decided to go with computers for the time being).
I have an amazing husband – he puts up with me, makes me laugh, and is such a wonderful dad to our girls.
God didn’t answer my prayers about a job in the time I thought he should, because if he had, I would never have been able to be in Montana all summer.
I got to be in Montana all summer showing my girls as much of my growing up years as we could. Trips to the park, Shakespeare in the Park, Yellowstone, Bridger, old haunts, Lewis & Clark caverns… the list goes on and on.
My husband has a good job, great insurance.
Knowing who your friends are, and they have your back. The true ones always come back, no matter what separates you.
Most of all… seeing first hand, the power of Jesus, manifested through you, my family and friends as you have wrapped your arms around myself, and the entire family this year.
What’s up for 2012?
Living boldly, intentionally.
Without fear or reservations.
Being everything I can be, and everything I never thought I could.
Going beyond where I am today, where I will be tomorrow.
Living Strong.
About Dana
Congrats on quitting smoking Dana! That is a great accomplishment.
Thanks, Beth!