2012

I usually don't set a lot of goals for the New Year (I know, that is not really American.  Or not really anything for that matter)... but I did set a goal of trusting Jesus more this past year.  I wanted to lean on Him and His plans more than anyone else(s).  I found my life to be much more fulfilling and calming when I did so.
I have a goal to be the Mom and Wife I want Grey to be one day for 2013.  Humbling - and yikes.

January
Chet started his job at Weaver Construction/WSI.  Huge blessing to our family, that even allows me to be a stay-at-home mom!  The blessings of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.  Proverbs 10:22  We might not be "worldly" rich, but staying home with Grey makes me feel like the wealthiest girl alive!  One of the greatest gifts in my life is having a hard-working, diligent husband, who wants the best for his family.

February
Bed rest gave us time to rest in His promises and strengthen our faith.  I missed the Hope Mommies 2012 Winter Retreat and my nephew Cohen's birthday, but I did not miss out on being Grey's caregiver as she grew strong in my womb.  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7

March
Last day of work before Spring Break, and hospitalized for the rest of the month, waiting on Grey.  Welcomed 5 pound 2 ounce, beautiful Grey Danelle into our family on the 22nd, the best day of my life.  Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly gifts, who does not change like shifting.  James 1:17

April
Learned how to manage our lives with a precious newborn who had colic and reflux.  Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have the great endurance and patience. Colossians 1:11 
Celebrated Easter as a family.  Grey was still too little to bring to church, so we had an Easter service of our own at home, thanking Him for dying an unthinkable death for our sins.  He is not here; for He has risen. Matthew 28:6a  
Celebrated other new babies with several baby showers!  Behold children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.  Psalm 127:3

May
I resigned from my position at Upward Bound.  Bittersweet to leave an amazing job, but so wonderful to be a full-time Momma to Grey.  She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.  Proverbs 31:27.
We had the honor of dedicating Grey to the Lord on Mother's Day at church!  Truly one of the happiest moments in my life.  For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him.  Therefore I have lent him to the LORD.  As long as he lives, he is lent to the LORD.  1 Samuel 1:27-28

June
Chet and I celebrated 4 years of marriage with a little getaway to Fredericksburg.  It was our first night away from Grey, although we enjoyed our needed couple time, and Grey loved being with the Shuffields.  Love never fails.  1 Corinthians 13:8a  

July
First 4th of July with Grey was a fun success...until the fireworks.  :)
Celebrated my 29th birthday.
Spent many days outdoors in the early mornings and late evenings.  Loved learning about God's nature with a 4 month old in the Texas warmth.  When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?  Psalm 8:2-4

August
Celebrated Holden's second Glory birthday!  What a gift to have his sister celebrate the day with us.  You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.  Psalm 16:11

September
Met our niece Hannah Grace for the first time, and celebrated her first birthday (a touch late) here in Texas!  Joel, Charity and Hannah flew in from Cali to spend a week with us.  It was wonderful to have all the cousins together in Brady, and of course Hannah is the most beautiful little girl!  But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children.  Psalm 103:17
Joined the Snyder MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group.  It has been a huge blessing and encouragement in my life to fellowship with other mommies and their children!  Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.  1 Thessalonians 5:11


October
Celebrated Chet's 30th birthday.  Traveled to Brady for nephew Kayson's birthday.
I started working for Holden Uganda on Tuesdays and Thursdays, meaning Grey was enrolled in daycare.  (This only lasted a few months, as Grey's little immune system was premature for daycare.)
Our family was a little down and out with sicknesses throughout the whole month of October, although we enjoyed the most gorgeous month in West Texas nonetheless.  A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.  Proverbs 17:22
Grey's first Halloween was so cute!  She was the most adorable grey bunny.  Ever. :)

November
First time to really love the holiday craziness.  Having a baby makes things a thousand times more fun! :)
I flew to Houston for a friend's wedding dress/bridesmaid dress shopping for a weekend.  Enjoyed the girl time, however I did miss my little miss and her daddy quite a bit.  I also did not feel well most of the first part of November - never got sick until I had kids?!
Spent Grey's first Thanksgiving with both of our families.  Precious memories.  Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.  1 Chronicles 16:8

December
Holden Uganda celebrated it's second year with 100 water projects completed!  Thanks be until God for his unspeakable gift.  2 Corinthians 9:15
Grey's first Christmas was perfect.  Absolutely perfect!  We spent time with both of our extended families before and after Christmas, but Christmas Eve and Day were just us...priceless family time.  Grey was full of excitement (probably reflecting ours') opening each gift on Christmas morning.  For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:  and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6

Full arms.  Full hearts.  Thank you Jesus for JOY in 2012.