Happy New Year!

Fresh Vigor,

New Beginnings,*

Cozy Memories,

Abundant Blessings,

These things I carry with me across the bridge from 2008 to 2009.


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As the feasting and joyful celebrations begin to abate around here (remember we have chosen to celebrate for 12 days -- a WONDERFUL decision), as the trips back and forth to the airport cease, as the rich and sumptuous meals kneel to lighter fare, I struggle to capture and retain all the blessed memories that have spilled forth upon my sweet family over these past days. Our internet connection froze up (literally, I think) providing no access to blogging over the holidays, so I merely followed Mary's example on that first Christmas Day:

But Mary kept all these things,

and pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:19

I have so very much brimming in my heart that will spill forth into a plethora of posts in the coming days, but for today I merely wish you the most JOYful New Year!

A list-maker by nature, I have learned to drop the pen and numbered tablet ruled by my head and let my heart cry out for something special each New Year. This year I see the need to hold everything around me with an open palm, rather than a clutch or grasp.

My precious Mentor, Rachel W, once shared that she had to learn to keep an open palm in order to be poised to receive blessings from the Lord. A tight-fisted grip, desperate clutch, or even firm and unflinching hold will keep the hand closed and the gentle blessings like raindrops will fall to the ground and be lost. Though I long ago pledged to release possessions, I strive this year to release the dreams and hopes and relationships and sticky-wickets found in my daily life. I set them all free to be what they are meant to be instead of continually molding them according to my short-sighted desire.

Many years ago I learned to dance with joy in the moment, but even now I continue to keep busy with the tidying and reforming of that moment. This year I set out to toss aside the encumbrances to joy and stand open-armed, palms-up in anticipation of what the Lord may rain upon me.

Do I expect only good things? Of course not! (Though I wouldn't hesitate to drown in joy alone.) Rather, I believe that each step along the way holds joy for me in this moment or in the seeds of a tomorrow filled with blessing. I will follow God's lead alone in this year's dance.

In 2009 . . .

* I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. (Psalm 143:6)

* Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust. (Psalm 143:8a)

* Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee. (Psalm 143:8b)

* Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good. (Psalm 143:10a)

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* YES! I do have daffodils beginning to bloom in my gardens as the roses continue to put forth blossoms even in the snow. : )