New year New me

Happy new year everybody! I actually can't believe we are into another year, where did the last one go? I'm usually on a downer at this time of the year, christmas trees and decorations are down which makes the house look so bare, work starts back, I feel sluggish after over indulging on all the festive treats.

We are just back from our skiing trip to Bulgaria which was class (apart from the lack of good snow), and on our last night (2nd January) Kerry ann, Laura and myself found ourselves in our room reflecting on the year gone past and the brand new one we are entering into. 2008 was a year which had many ups and downs, Scott's mum was diagnosed with breast cancer, his dad attented 2 funerals including that of his father in the space of a week, my friend Aaron Montgomery had his life taken in Feb. On the up side though, Scott's mum kicked breast cancer's ass, I got to experience Africa for the first time (one of the highlights of my life not just 2008) and we got to see lots of our friends get married.
2009 is a brand new year and so the 3 of us decided that instead of the usual resolutions we all make, we are going to make a list of 3 things which we must strive to do in the next year, and at the beginning of Jan 2010 we are going to see how we have done. I will tell you what 2 of my things are, but the 3rd will have to wait til Jan 2010 (sorry!)

1. I want to spend more time with God, in His Word, talking to Him, talking about Him. I want to grow so much in my relationship with God. Last night at church Alain was talking about "Shalom" and I want to feel that. I want to Rise up and go from here and experience more of God every day.

2. I want to be a healthier person, be more active and get outside more (hopefully i will lose a bit of weight in the process as I have the most beautiful bridesmaid dress to fit into in April!)

And above all, as Alain said lastnight, I want to do everything with a thankful heart. I want to spend less time worrying about myself and my situations and start thinking more about others. I want to live out 2009 like this...

..."Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with eachother and forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdon, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

I hope everyone has a happy and blessed 2009.

Love love love!