As 2016 comes to a close and I reflect on all it brought myself and our family, my gut reaction is to scream “good riddance!” This year was one of loss and heartache, struggle and fear. But it was also a year of hope and relationship. This was a year that through leaps of faith and leaning on God, our family unit grew closer and our relationships deepened, both with each other and with God. There are many areas of my life that I will continue to strive to improve upon in 2017. And I think I will have 2016 to thank for that. For without the difficult times, truly enjoying the good times life brings us and embracing life fully, in both beautiful and in difficult times, would be near impossible. For me, I press on and look forward to being vulnerable and letting God work out the details of this life. I aim to let go of my desire to manage what it is that He is doing in us and through us.

From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Blessings and love.