2015 - Year of the Sheep

The other day, I was driving in my car and thought of how great it would be to start vlogging this year.  Then I realized, I haven't blogged in forever.  Actually, I didn't blog once last year.  Although surprising, it actually coincides with the year I had.  It was an amazing roller coaster of events and emotions.  It would take tooo long to recap - but I will sum it up in these few words.

• 1 job change
• 3 car accidents in a 1 month period
• an MRI
• too much stress and worry
• set up for success

I am unbelievably grateful for where I am now.  God has truly kept me and blessed me and shown me favor in more ways that I could every imagine. 

2015 is the Year of the Sheep according to the Asian zodiac calendar.  Some sources say that it is a symbol of peace, tranquility and healing.  That is something I truly need this year.  At my church's watch night service, some of the sermons preached were so timely. 

• Don't Forget to say Thank You - Luke 17:11-19
• For all that God has done in our lives, don't be like the 9 who refused to acknowledge the healer..say Thank You.  I think of the times where this was not the case for me.

• One More Year - Luke 13:6-9
• We are being given one more year (or more..) to get it right.  Don't waste the time.  Do what you have been commanded to do - bear fruit for the Lord.

There were other sermons, but these truly touched me.  If you only knew what I went through last year...but I made it through! Praise God.  I look forward to so much this year.

And I promise not to be a stranger!

Bracing Myself

For the past week, my left knee has been bothering me.  I didn't hit or anything, just it became sorta sore.  Thanks to my employer, we receiving excellent health care benefits at the beginning of this year.  So armed with my new health care card, I was able to call my new Kaiser doctor, make an appointment and be seen.  Long story short, I came home with meds and a knee brace.  As I rest my leg, I started thinking about all of the recent changes in my life.

Changes for the better.

My Faith:
- God has been more than patient with me.  Despite what I intend to do and don't do, the Lord is truly my Shepherd.  He keeps me and I need to do my part by doing what I said I would.  It's by his grace and mercy that I am still here

My alumni group:
- We just had a new year planning meeting for my alumni group.  It was a wonderful success.  The year is starting off with some great events and I am grateful to be in a role of leadership.

My job:
- Armed with new responsibilites based on my boss' new roles and our aquisition a year ago, I feel like the sky is the limit on opportunities for us.  As I embrace the change I have to remember to stay focused and on top of everything.

My family:
- As we grow older, staying together becomes so much more important.

I don't have to brace myself for the future because that could imply that something unfavorable could be in store.  But it also could be something wonderful that I have no idea or any comprehension of.

What are you bracing yourself for this year?