Happy 3rd BMT Birthday to Me!!!

I can hardly believe it has been only 3 years since one of the worst days of my life. It seems like eons ago even though the memories are still quite vivid. It feels good to say that I have finally made it back to some semblance of normalcy besides a few bumps in the road (i.e. pulmonary embolisms and Coumadin). One of the best things this past year has brought me is some slivers of the silver linings  that I have been praying for. Through my own struggles, I was able to bring some hope, encouragement, and love to others entering the world of cancer, and some people were brought back to a place of faith in the Ultimate Healer. Though I have been thankful for each new day I have been given, I feel as though I am finally in a place of no longer surviving but actually thriving.  It is amazing to me what the difference a year can make.
    As with any new year, there are new goals to set,resolutions to keep, and mantras to add. One thing that has really been heavy on my heart is first Chronicles 4:10 " Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request"  I feel like I have so much more to give, and I desire to have God expand my boundaries. I have an amazing testimony and a coffer full of grace, hope, and love that I would love to share with those in need. One of the first steps in enlarging my territory is becoming co-coordinator of my MOPS group for the upcoming year. I pray that I will be a blessing to all of those mommas no matter what form it may be, and I pray that there will be many more boundaries to expand.
    Secondly, Luke 6:31 is being added to my list of life's mantras. It says " Do to others as you would have them do to you." I know this is so cliché and it makes you feel like we are back in Sunday school, but there is so much truth in it. We all know that life is so short, so we only have a small window in time to change the world for the people around us. I know how much I value the admiration and the affirmation of my friends and family. I want to and need to be told sometimes that I make someone's day or that I am needed. I am blown away by the little gestures of a text, email or handwritten note encouraging me or covering me in prayer. If I cherish these moments so much, how can I not go and do the same for others? I want the people in my life to know that they are loved, and appreciated, and that my life is better with them in it. So If I get the thought to reach out to someone, I'm not going to put it off. I am going to send a random note of encouragement because we all need to be told that we have value and we are beautiful people.

So here's to celebrating another year covered in grace.

This is my fruit tart treat for my little birthday celebration.