I can hardly believe we've arrived at the end of 2011 and are awaiting the beginning of 2012! What a year of mixed emotions it has been! God has lead us on a winding road of trial and blessing this year that has left us strengthened and renewed.
"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
James 1:12
We began 2011, snuggled up in our warm make-shift beds in the missionary house in Lima, Peru. As we journeyed home, little did we know that 2011 did not hold a return to the mission field as we had planned, but three hip surgeries for Ella, five full-body casts, two different wheel chairs, ten trips to Salt Lake City, and five times that Ella went under anesthesia. And that was just Ella!
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
2011, was a time of re-settling, if that's a word, for our family. We had to start over. Plant new roots here in the States, which included job hunting, house hunting, school hunting and soul-searching. Where did God want us? It turns out, He wanted us right smack dab in the middle of Nampa, Idaho with Calvin working at his old trucking job, Ariana at our local Christian school and us in a cozy little home four blocks away from our church! Praise Jesus for faithfully answering each of our prayers.
"Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!"
Isaiah 30:18
In 2011, we celebrated Ella's 3rd birthday and Ariana's 5th as well as Cal and my 7th wedding anniversary. 2011 marked the year that we enrolled Ariana as a kindergartener for her first year of 'real' school!! AND 2011, hosted the writing, editing and publishing of my book and 2011, was the year in which several people committed their lives to our LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ because of the Holy Spirit speaking to hearts as they read my book!!!
"Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!" Revelation 7:12
2012...Top that!
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