2011 At-a-Glance

I promised a Christmas letter on my Christmas card via my blog, but it didn't happen. 
From October to the first of January, life took off at a pace like never before.
SO - here are my reflections from 2011 as shared with my family on New Year's Day:

"But Mary kept all these things,
and pondered them in her heart . . ."  Luke 2:19

THINGS WONDERED . . .
What will you be happy to see unfold in your life when you look back on 2012?

My greatest joy will be to see my children walking in truth . . . truly!
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." 3 John 1:4 

What is your greatest prayer for the new year?
Continued wisdom and provision.  I would love for God to open the door for Isaac to attend Liberty University.  The passion to write and encourage widows, young moms, and my family continues so I hope to make this a priority.

THINGS PONDERED . . .                            

How did God care or provide for you in practical or in supernatural ways?  Two international mission trips this year (Jamaica Cruise with a Cause and Romania)

God brought along another precious little girl for me to care for as a nanny. 
We were able to take a couple of small vacations: 
Creation Museum and a day ski trip in NC over Christmas.
The Mailbox Miracle! At the very last hour, God provided the exact amount needed to pay the bills.  It’s been a long time since I was completely and utterly dependant on Him with no way to help God out J!

What was your biggest lesson learned?  Experiencing and continuing to learn first-hand about God’s amazing grace.  I continued to learn of my need for humility . . . no Lori and ALL God = humility

THINGS TREASURED . . .
What was your biggest blessing in 2011?
TWO new grandsons ~ Adrian Samuel and Levi Daniel

Brandon’s girlfriend ~ Brittany . . . a sweet blessing to our family!

A new embroidery machine from family and friends – purchased and delivered as a complete surprise the week after Christmas.

What were your highlights from the year 2011?
·         Becoming a Gramsie

·         Micah’s blessing trip – the last one

(we peaked out with SIX TEENAGERS in the home at one time)
·         Romania (hearing God – obeying God – experiencing God)
·         Lifeway DVD taping of “Five Converstaions you must have with your Son” with Vicki Courtney
·         Physical healing of:  a broken rib, torn rotator cuff, blocked carotid arteries, cracked tooth!