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Reflecting on a decade

We're reaching not only the end of a year, but the end of a decade!  Goodbye 2010's, and hello 2020's!
Wow, what a decade it has been.  I look back on these last 10 years and see a theme of GROWTH.  My 30's were spent growing my family, growing my career, growing as a Mom and wife, growing my faith, growing my confidence, growing my love for running and travel, building a house, and just growing as a person.  We have parented 2 daughters through their first 8-10 years, watching them take their first steps, lose their first teeth, and grow into the little girls God made them to be.  What a blessing this journey has been so far.  We have run several marathons and dozens of half marathons as we have developed a passion for running.  We have seen 18 states with our girls as we have made traveling the country a priority.  We've gone on 10 annual beach trips with the treasured friends we do life with.  We've spent 10 years on social media, been introduced to GPS and selfies, grown a love for audiobooks and podcasts, and can't imagine life without our iPhones.  It's been quite a decade.  It's also been a season of sad goodbyes, as we've said goodbye to 3 very influential people in our lives including my father in-law, precious Grandma, and our beloved pastor of 20 years.  We've also lost 2 fur babies, but gained an amazing one.  Life is full of seasons, and this has been a season we will look back on with fond memories and also some tears.  It was wonderful, but also tough.  It was fun, but also busy.  I am older, but wiser.  I am tired, but stronger.  My heart is full of joy for everything that has been and everything that is to come.  I look to 2020 and a new decade in my 40's with more confidence in my identity as a Christian, mom, wife, healthcare provider, friend, writer, runner, and more.  This next decade will be our last 8-10 years with our girls at home, preparing them to leave our nest and fly on their own.  We will be preparing them for their journey, focusing on what matters, creating meaningful memories, and serving our God.  Cheers to 2020 and making each day and each year count!


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