I can finally post that the kitchen project is complete. I'm happy to say it was a success, and worth all of the time and effort. We had a lot of company over the holidays, so it was well used and appreciated. Love it!
As it is the eve of the Eve, I am thinking about the new year. What will it bring? And, more importantly, what will I bring to it? I find myself thinking about who I am. I am a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend. I have loved those roles, but find myself wanting to expand my horizons, if you will. I've been thinking about the gifts that God gives to each of us, and what mine are. I think I figured out that our gifts are what we love and we were meant to use them to enjoy our life fully. They are not burdens to be avoided, but rather what will help us rise above our burdens, if that makes sense.
So, what do I love? I love to have people into my home. I love things that bring comfort and warmth, and try to offer that to my guests. I love to create. I love to make something beautiful out of something not so beautiful. I love old, weathered things. I love old people - people who have been through life and have something to show for it. I love to encourage. I sometimes get down and don't do such a great job, but in my heart, I always feel uplifted if I can lift a spirit.
So, these are the things I'm thinking about. I'm hoping to make a difference this year. I believe God always wants me to make a difference and has some way for me to do that. I think about all of the people who've made a difference in my life, and they've made my life so much more full, just by being who they are. Those who come to mind are of course my husband, the man who loves me more than anyone has ever loved me. My children, who bring me life and laughter every day, and keep me out of the pit. My dad - the most generous man I know. My mom, who has listened and become the best friend she could be to me. My sister, who is the greatest encourager I know. My brothers Scott and Jeff, who are 2 really awesome guys. My friend Corrine, who is a constant blessing in my life. My friends Keith and Maria, who give so sacrificially to help others. The great teachers and staff at Lincoln Prairie, as well as all of the parents I know. I love that school, and am forever grateful for the caring people that are a part of it. My dog Peanut, who brings a smile to my face every time I see him.
Of course there are many more people to thank, that I love, and that have made a great impact on my life, but these are a few of the people that come to mind that I am inspired by in many ways. So, I hope this year I can make a difference to someone, in their life, and that I will bring a smile to their face, as these people have brought to mine. I pray to use the gifts God has given me - whether big or small, it doesn't matter...just as long as it makes a difference. Oh, I do want to mention Tom Simms who has helped me start this website, using his time and talents and energy to do so. I have never met him face to face, but I feel like I do know him by his kindness and generosity. It's people like that that I want to imitate, because they are willing to make a difference to people they have never met.
So, I pray this year is one that I use the gifts God has blessed me with. I don't know what 2008 will bring, but I know I can bring whatever God has given me to 2008. And my prayer is that I'm a better wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend. And, of course, I'm willing to paint. And, remember - paint is like love - a little goes a long way.
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