Brin Girl

It’s New Year’s Eve, 2008.  This has been a very eventful year for my family.  Looking back, I see God’s hand in all of it.

We lost our beloved grandfather, “Poppop,” in March and six months later his lovely wife and our grandmother, “Mommom,” went home too.  The memories that I have of them will forever live on.  My children will know who Mommom and Poppop were and we will keep the beauty of their lives a part of our family.  They were inspiring and I miss them.

Our “baby,” Evan, turned 3 this past April.  We had a party outside.  This was a first.  Usually the parties are inside since April isn’t always the warmest month.  This year it was surprisingly warm.  But I remember it was a bit windy that day so we moved everything into the garage.  Not the best setting for pictures and whatnot but we had fun.  That’s all that mattered.  My parents were able to come to his party, as they do every year, and that made for some nice memories too.

Evan started preschool this year.  He’s flourishing in that environment and he loves going to “school.”  Taking him to school that first day was emotional.  Just seeing him with his back pack on and in line with his peers really made us realize he’s growing up.  And we couldn’t be prouder of the little person he is.  My father-in-law put raising kids this way, “It’s like an airplane that you can’t put on auto pilot.  It’s always in need readjusting.”  He’s a dad of four boys.  Dan and I are right there to help guide Evan and help mold him into the man he will eventually become one day.  It’s an amazing journey.

July 4, 2008, at 2:55 a.m. Tanner James Byron entered the world.  Such an unforgettable day.  He came in with a bang that’s for sure.  Only five hours of labor after having 20 with Evan.  He was born on Mommom’s 90th birthday, his great-grandmother who passed away earlier this year.  That is so very special to us.  And let’s face it, he will get fireworks every year for his birthday.  Having Tanner here this Christmas was simply the best.  Our little family.  (smile)

I turned 30 this past October.  I’m happy about it.  With each passing year of my life I feel like I am becoming who I was made to be.  I am learning things about myself and discovering new hobbies.  My life is in a constant state of growth.  I don’t want to be stagnant.  I want each day, month, year to hold moments of true learning and humble adjustments.

Our church has gone through some growing pains this year.  It’s a good thing.  Great things are on the horizon for Gateway Church.

So as I sit here reflecting on this year’s events I feel utterly blessed.  I’m confident that 2009 will be a memorable year for my family too.  A lot can happen in a year.  I imagine myself this time next year reflecting on 2009 and I know it’ll be a blessed year no matter what happens.  I am His.  With that, life is good.

May your New Year be abundantly blessed with His riches and may you come to know Him even more this coming year!