...and it's 2014.

2013 has seemed very full.  I've made mistakes.  I've been forgiven.  I've loved and have been loved.  I've won a few, lost a few.  I suppose the list could go on and on, and it would sound similar to the year before.

However, it IS a new year.  New beginnings.  A fresh start.  Time to try something new... or maybe try something again.  Love.  Learn.  Grow.  Make a decision.  Stick to it.  Fail.  Try again.

I'll be truthful... I don't really feel very "new beginning"ish today.  I awoke to being snowed in, afraid for my husband to drive to work on the nasty roads, and later to have my oldest son come from his room with a 102.6 temperature and an excruciatingly painful headache.  I could see it all over his sweet face.

I haven't done much since.  I sat with him for a couple of hours, waiting for medicine to kick in... feeding him, keeping him hydrated.  I don't care how old your child grows to be (he's nearly 14  now), a mommy's heart breaks when her baby doesn't feel well.

After awhile, he was doing a bit better, and I decided to do a few housechores.  I made some lunch for my other two little ones, started a load of laundry, and felt comfortable breaking away for an hour of mindless cardio.

That's when I stumbled upon this:

http://www.trailheadonline.org/the-advent-of-freedom

I say "stumbled," but I searched for it, truly.  I like to keep up with this pastor.  He was a teacher of mine in highschool, and he played a very influential role during my teen years.  He continues to bless me now, when I randomly decide to catch up with some of his messages or the progress of the church where he pastors.  Again, I thank you, Mr. Mizel.  :)

And here I am, at 3:01 pm.  The day still seems long.  I'm still in need of a shower... and I really haven't accomplished much... but my son is feeling better.  My husband made it to work just fine.  I've been blessed by the words of some very special friends.

Not a bad way to start of 2014.

If you have a moment, take a few minutes to listen to the link above.  God spoke to my heart.  Maybe He will yours, too?

Happy New Year!