it's my birthday! :D

Wow. One minute it feels like we were just waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls on Christmas day, and now I am being showered with a chorus of "Happy Birthday!" This year has been exhilarating, full of smiles on our faces, tears falling down from our eyelids, and the hope of Jesus Christ running through our veins. I'm listening to one of my favorite songs "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey as our family naps from the adventurous day. Sitting here all alone with Journey blasting through my eardrums allows me to truly reflect on my blessings throughout the years.

1. Christ Jesus
Wow. I don't even know how to start with this one. God has been there for me when, to be transparent, no one was. God has held me through the hardest storms and picked me up when I was crying out to Him on my knees. His grace has remained sufficient through the crucible, through the fire, and through the famine. His love has remained when my whole world was shaken up. He is the reason I am here. He taught me that I am more that what I've done. He taught me that it is never the end,  just a new beginning. He outstretched His hands saying "Would you trust me?" and it is my prayer that I will also outstretch my arm and say "Here I am." He is the reason why I sing. He is the reason for everything. I am the clay; and He is the potter. It's my prayer that when all is said and done, that I can look to Jesus and He'll say "Very well my daughter." I love you Jesus.

2. My family
I am convinced that I have the best family in the world. From Daddy to Coby, every day spent with them has been like Heaven on Earth. I am so blessed to not just be their sibling on Earth but also through Christ. My family is the type of family that are a shoulder to cry on when you need it, laughs are always sufficient, and fellowship with one another. Mom, Dad, Darin, Jayden, Avonlea, Keely, and Coby...you guys are amazing! You've pointed me to the right direction when I wasn't sure where I was going. You've made me smile when all I knew what to do is cry. You've loved me no matter who I am or what I did. And I am eternally grateful. God created all of you guys so beautiful both inside and out, and He is going to use you to do amazing things.

3. My friends
My friends are the best. They know all about me and still are my friend. :) Whether it's hanging out, writing plays, performing, sharing corny jokes, or even studying for a test, I always have the best time with them. You know who you are. Whitney, Kristen, Teal, Maddie, Claudia, Katy, Adam, Slater...I love you guys. <3 You're the best! 

Through the fire and the flames, the safeguard and the strong tower, I've realized how short life is. I've realized how sweet God's grace is. I've realized how crucial human relationships are. It may not be time to look into nursery homes yet, but its my prayer to use everyday to glorify God, that I am consistently praying for an opportunity to share Him. Why? Because the birthday gift God gave me is too good to keep to myself. I want to proclaim it on the rooftops His grace and how good He is. Christ be glorified through every ounce of my body! :)