27 and Wierd

I think it is fitting around your birthday to do some reflecting on the last year and everything that has happened as well as set some goals for the upcoming year. This last year has beenvery tough emotionally, physically and mentally but some really amazing things have happened as well.  I graduated with my Master's, took on some new responsibilites at work, started my Specialist degree, went to Harry Potter World with the hubbs and Vegas with dear friends, spent quality time with family and friends, became more involved with ministry at church, learned I can and enjoy baking, and made some healthy choices by starting WW. Next year, I hope to keep the momentum of positivity started at church by continuing to work with both the children and young adult ministries. At work, I hope to become even more dedicated to my craft of teaching and become a better mediator of my responsibilites in and out of the classroom. I hope to keep working on my Specialist degree, sticking with the WW and taking time to enjoy baking, reading and spending time with family and friends. Before my next birthday, I hope to have run in a road race, crocheted my first blanket, and maybe even get a second tattoo!

But most of all...I am praying for God to give me the courage to be WIERD; to do things different and break the status-quo. I am tired of being held captive by the why me's and why not's of this earthly world. I have allowed fear, bitterness, and anger to consume parts of my heart. But over this next year, I want to take those parts back and give them to God. In Romans we read "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-- his good, pleasing and perfect will."

During my 26th year, I spent too much time thinking about why some things weren't happening for me like for everyone else; why Kevin and I were facing such hard times. Well the answer is that the tough times make you stronger and they have united Kevin and I in a unique way. So during my 27th year, I want to stop comparing myself to others, claim God's plan for my life, and believe that Jesus will serve as my strength to be WIERD enough to walk through it all.