today begins a new season

Just yesterday I was 24 and I claimed that 24 would be "my year of possibilities". And it was just that. I put myself out there and tried things I'd never done before, accomplished goals, and grew up a bit. But today I am 25. This day is bitter sweet because 24 was so great and I let me be me and I opened myself up for change. I was excited and joyful for a whole year about the possibilities life might throw at me. So I sit and think why should 25 look any differently. Over the course of the past year I have begin to see that the Lord does not want anything but for me to walk in obedience and seek opportunity in each day. This truth has opened me up to enjoy life and all that my God has created! This year the Lord has just as much or even more in store for me than the last. I am excited to begin this season and walk on the path the Lord has planned out for me.

Also, this weekend I was able to not only put on my 8th bridesmaid dress but I was able to celebrate the marriage of 2 very special friends. I have had the joy to love and encourage these friends in their relationship not only with each other but also with the Lord. They have been dear to me for several years now. Their relationship has had there ups and downs like any other relationship but I will say that I have never seen such a relationship that speaks the gospel so clearly. The way they were pulled apart for seasons and kept fighting for each. They love each other with all their being. You can see the joy that they bring each other through their love for each other. Just like the Lord delights to love his children and Christ fights for a relationship with each one of his people. Watching these two individuals be joined in matrimony was a beautiful celebration! The vows that said to one another and before God brought tears to my eyes. These who were once far off have been brought together and made one. Their story speaks forgiveness, redemption, and now victory. I was overjoyed (and a little anxious) all weekend just knowing that their marriage will do wonders for the Kingdom of God.

so a new season today. another year. another friend married. the Lord continues to teach much of him and much of myself. He continues to stretch me and take me places of humility and growth. I am excited for this new year I'm excited for new friends and old friends and being joyful for friends who are also walking into new seasons!

 Ben and Kay's wedding reception! She was one beautiful bride!

 mom and dad stayed all day sunday to surprise me for birthday dinner!

my friends helping me celebrate! the Lord has blessed me with some pretty great friends and this is just a few! thanks for celebrating me!