New Year, New Beginnings

Well I can honestly say that 2011 ended with a huge bang.  New year, new beginnings is going to be my motto for 2012.  I am anxious about the new year and wondering what is in store for me in 2012. Things I am looking forward to in 2012:
1-Trip to see my sister and brother'n'law in CT
2-Graduation in December with my FNP
3-Ski trip with my family for Christmas
Only three things thus far, but I am sure as time goes by more things will be added to the list. I am currently reading a book by Linda Dillow, recommended by my friend Rachel, which I have to say has been very good for me over the past few weeks. Calm My Anxious Heart is a great book toward finding contentment.  This book has been my daily devotion for the past two weeks and will continue until I finish. 
With all the happenings over the holidays, my heart has been on an emotional roller-coaster not ever stopping.  I am truly grateful for friends and family who have helped be my rock throughout this difficult time in my life. I have good days and bad days, but I choose to continue forward-for I know God has something  better for my life.  James 1:2-4 is my verse for the year and is a constant reminder that even though we go through these trials in our life-our faith grows and we are better because of the experience.
One of my favorite exerpts thus far in Dillow's book is one from a few days ago.  She talks about categorizing our life in both positive and negative ways.  She encouraged you to write down both positives and negatives in your life.  My eyes were opened when she asked 'which list do you spend the majority of your time dwelling on?' This was a harsh statement for me to swallow, because I definitely see me dwelling most of my time on the negative aspects of my life over the past few weeks.  Dillow goes on to tell a story... "When two women looked through prison bars, one saw mud, the other saw stars."  We all have a choice of how we view our lives and whether or not we see positives or negatives. I'm choosing to look at the positives.
As Paul writes "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God"-Philippians 4:6.
I am truly grateful for everyone who has said a prayer, sent a text, called, or has just been with me over these past few weeks-you are wonderful and I am truly blessed. One day at a time-is what my sister says.  Each day it will get better. I know I deserve better and hope with time my heart will heal.