Under Construction + 10 Intentional Questions

As you can see, this blog is in the process of being updated.  I was inspired by my sweet friend Lorraine at As the Resin World Turns  to give the blog a facelift for the new year.  Don't worry - it isn't finished.  And no, that is not a picture of my hair.

Also inspired by two of my favorite blogs, No Sidebar & Cait Flanders, I am posting the answers to End Your Year Intentionally With These 10 Questions which was written for No Sidebar by Daisy.

1.  What makes this year unforgettable? 

This is the year my family got a second chance.  If you read this blog, you know that my Dad has faced a lot of health challenges this year.  He "left this world" on August 19th but, thanks to God and a wonderful medical team, he is here today.  This year has been hard and full of change but, it has also been full of second chances and joy.

2.  What did you enjoy doing this year?  

I really enjoyed hiking with my friend Christy.  Who knew I'd love to hike?  Hiking with a good friend is great therapy as well.  I also enjoyed catching up with an old acquaintance, Miranda, who is now a dear friend.  And...not least...I enjoyed celebrating my friend, Barbara and her beautiful heart.  

3.  What/who is the one thing/person you're grateful for?  

Mom & Dad.  Period.

4.  What's your biggest win this year?  

This year I found out that I am stronger than I ever thought I was.  With God's help, I can handle what ever comes my way.

5.  What did you re/watch/listen to that made the most impact his year?  

Hmmm....I love to watch documentaries however, I just can't seem to think of one that stands out.  I can't think of any books that stand out either.  I'm going to say the Jesus Calling Devotional.  It really helped me through some tough days.

6.  What did you worry about most and how did it turn out?  

I worried that I "can't handle" certain things that may or may not happen.  My therapist, Debbie, taught me that is a false statement.  The true statement is that I CAN handle them, I just don't want to.

7.  What was your biggest regret and why?

I regret wasting too much time watching television.  I think I could have gotten off the couch a few more times and worked toward my goal of becoming a minimalist.  I could have purged a few more things.  I also regret not spending more time with friends.  I have some very dear friends I didn't see much of this year.  I plan to change that next year.  

8.  What's one thing that you changed about yourself? 

I became a Sunday school teacher to a sweet class of 4 year olds.  I never had any desire to teach a children's class but, due to someone's illness, I took over a class "temporarily".  That turned into a permanent position.

9.  What surprised you the most this year?  

That I am good at teaching 4 year olds.  Who knew?

10.  If you could go back to last January 1, what suggestion would you give your past self? 

I would remind myself to trust God and take every day one at a time.

This year I plan to be more intentional in getting together with friends & family.  I have enjoyed getting to see my Dad's side of the family on several occasions this year both joyous and sad.  In July, my cousin Jeff was promoted to Colonel.  We took the short trip to Columbia, SC to see him take his oath!  Also in July, my cousin Daniel was married to a beautiful young woman named Hannah.  And in November, we got together to celebrate the life of my Aunt Isabelle.  What a Belle.  

What are some of your hopes for 2018?