So, as we are at the end of a decade, I decided to make a "Top 10 List" from 2000-2010. It is hard to put them in order of importance, aside from the last 3 but I'll have to say all have been some sort of event that has changed or molded my life in some way. So, here goes:
10. In 2001, by faith I finished out the year, and quit my first job as a teacher. We were truly stepping out on faith that we could make it on Jason's salary but I was so thankful and blessed to be able to stay home with Peyton and just work part-time. God provided!
9. Throughout 2001-02, I was enjoying my time with Peyton but Jason's schedule was one that kept him away a lot. As the schedules conflicted, and all that comes with being a new mom unfolded, I began to get very discouraged and just found myself being discontent. God placed Melanye in my life, at first as a mentor, but she has grown to become a very dear friend.
8. 2003 - We sold our house, quit our jobs and moved in with Jason's parents. (and I was pregnant!) We both went to work at DAC, and stayed with my in-laws for 7 months. It was a huge learning time for me to wait on God's timing and again, His provision, and a special time for preparation of what was next.
7. Illinois - 2003-2007- There's too much to write about these years in our lives, but when you move that far away from everything you've ever known, it causes you to appreciate what you have and totally depend on each other and the Lord.
6. Nashville- Ok, this one may seem silly, but over this past decade, Nashville has become one of our favorite cities. (However, we don't get to too many other cities,so maybe it wins by default!) Either way, we have been able to take many trips there, some for fun, some for Youth Minister conferences, but always enjoy a refreshing time away, and I also got to reconnect with a long, lost friend there!!! Love you, Amy!
5. Donya- I have no doubt that God planned for two southern girls to be in Illinois at the same time. Donya has been a friend who was there at the worst moment of my life. I cannot even put into words what she means to me other than saying that God sent her there, and knew that she'd be there to walk with me thru the sunshine and the rain. I love you, my friend. We'll always find something to celebrate!
4. 2008 & 2010 - Ecuador: I was able to take my first mission trip out of the country in 2008. I overcame my fear of flying!! What a life changing event! Unless you've been, you cannot describe it. I was able to go back this past year and will never forget this experience. I hope to get to go back!!
3. Over the past 10 years, God has slowly worked in me in spite of myself and allowed me to lead ( I prefer the word facilitate) several Bible studies. It started at Trinity when I SO did not feel like I should be leading those awesome college students; Then I had such a sweet, vivacious, and crazy Bible study group in Chatham, that I miss so much!! Now, here, I am still "facilitating" groups here, and God constantly slaps me in the face with each one we do!!
2. I count it an honor and privilege to be able to minister along side Jason. I know not everyone gets to do what we do, and we have so many "spiritual" children that we've been able to watch grow up. It is a blessing to be able to serve in the places that we've been in. I am grateful for each one and each person we've met along the way.
1. Probably the number one thing of this past 10 years is the birth of our three children. Peyton, 2000; Presley, 2003; Pruitt, 2005. I am blessed and pray I never take that for granted. My lifelong dream was to be a wife and mother, and I am so thankful that God has graciously answered that prayer. Each one of our children have a story of their own. Peyton, our little man- I can't believe he is 10 years old. He gave his heart to Jesus this year. What a praise! Presley, our sweet girl- to know her is to love her! She has such a big heart, and constantly makes us laugh. I can't wait to see how God uses her. Our baby Pruitt- his story is another whole list in itself. The things God did and continues to do thru him amazes me. I look forward to see how God will work in all three over the years to come.
"I said to the Lord, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing."
Psalms 16:2
Love this! Blessings to you guys in 2011!
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