It's My Birthday!

It's my birthday today! I normally don't make a big deal about it. I would not normally write about it or tell people about it but this year I feel like I should. 

I've been going through a lot of tough times over the past year. I don't share publicly my struggles yet I do publicly offer encouragement to other people if they are struggling like me. I feel like I need to share what I'm learning as I go through this. It's hard to remember that He is in control and that I'm going to be fine. He will take care of us and provide our needs. He reminds us of this in the Bible yet I continue to be "oh ye of little faith"...ouch! 

Anyways, I was talking to a friend today and I was reminded that last year I remember crying multiple times on my birthday. Call me Negative Nancy. I will share that I also lost my job one year ago just a few days before my birthday.  How much I have grown in one year! How much faith I have had to have and how much trust and humility and prayer have been in my life. I'm growing but I can't stop now. I have to keep my eyes on the prize and know that He will fulfill the desires of my heart. 

I've been blessed with another year. I'm another year older and I hope, somewhat wiser. I am still making mistakes. I still get frustrated and anxious and upset when things aren't going my way. I am not perfect by any means. I strive to do better and live better for Him. 

Last year I didn't know why this happened to me. This year I don't either. But today, I'm laughing and smiling and enjoying life. It's not what I thought it would be. I never thought I would be here in this situation at my age. Yet here I am. He has a purpose for me and that is to somehow use me while I go through my battles. 

I may not have much, but I'm feeling better than I have in a long time. I think I look better and act better. I'm still learning and growing but I'm feeling more confident and in charge while learning to still depend on Him. 

Last year I bought this dress- I thought I'll never be able to wear this! Yet here I am today in it and feeling great! I really do think that we get better with age! Looking back, I'm proud of all I have accomplished this past year. 

Dress- eloquii (last year online)

Shoes- Just Fab (online earlier this year)

I hope you've all had a fantastic day too! Take some time to celebrate on my behalf and do something fun! We went and ate ice cream and I read my book and took a bath and just took care of myself today. I even found a fun new hat at DSW using my birthday coupon! I'll share it with you all soon! 

Thanks for reading and following along with me! 

Sandae