I’ll have to say, our family hasn’t experienced a year like 2013, in well, ever. Before the year started, lots of people were dreading the year because of the number 13. I laughed at them- first of all, I’m not superstitious, and secondly, 13 has always been my favorite number since my birthday falls on the 13th of the month.
Well. I’m still not superstitious but I’m pretty sure 13 is no longer my favorite number!
This year, we lost both of my grandparents within 11 weeks, ending an era in my extended family’s lives. In between those 11 weeks, we lost our dog of almost 12 years, the one we got only weeks after our honeymoon. My brother-in-law lost his father at a very young age due to cancer. I went through post-partum depression. We’ve seen several marriages of friends fall under attack. A friend whose baby had the same disease as our son lost her baby only last week.
Yet through it all, I’ve undoubtedly seen the faithfulness of God. This world is full of things that we’d rather not see, but that makes the prospect of Heaven, and forever with our God, so much sweeter.
We’ve also seen good this year- we watched our fourth baby grow and bring much joy to our home. When my grandparents died, it was good to have a baby- new life- around the family. We vacationed twice to beautiful locations and able to get a break from the year. Two sets of our close friends had their first babies this fall. We celebrated our 12th anniversary just two days ago-
with a horse-and buggy ride in downtown Galveston
and a really nice dinner.
I am excited about 2014. Both Ben and I have mission trips coming up in the early part of the year. We are also hopefully taking our very first sabbatical. And there is lots in store that we don’t even know about!
It will also be a fun year on the blog. I have a few challenges for myself I’ll be introducing in the next week or so and lots of helpful info for you! As always, feel free to drop me a line with any prayer requests, comments, or suggestions!
Oh, and here’s quick tip for a kid-friendly drink for NYE, or any special occasion- mix equal parts of chilled grape juice and strawberry sparkling water. It’s truly delicious!
Most of all, be safe tonight, and enjoy a beautiful Jan 1 tomorrow!
About Kelli Hays
Love this post- it all goes back to God’s faithfulness, doesn’t it? Praying that 2014 is full of God’s presence and joy!
Where are y’all going on mission trips?