A Merry Christmas indeed

Surreal. Thankful. 

Those are the two words that describe this holiday season and the past months. It's been so overwhelming at times that I can't fully express it. When I think back to a year ago and remember how broken and fragile I was and how all I wanted to do was survive the year...and then to see now where I am...it just blows my mind to see how God has rebuilt and restored my life in just 12 months. I'm not sure everyone gets to see things come full circle as fast as I have and I can only thank God for all of that.

If I ever doubted my decision to quit my job and stay in TN I was reaffirmed that I made the right decision when I was asked to return to Gotee Records a few months ago. I am grateful beyond words to have a job that I love what I do especially in these turbulent times and in an industry that is struggling. Surreal was the word that popped in my head last week at The Tonight Show. I never would have thought a year ago, when I was desperately looking for a job just so I could eat, that I would be back at the job I love and at The Tonight Show with some of my best friends. Surreal indeed.

I have been blessed with a family that loves me and has supported me immensely this past year. I remember my sister in-law saying "great things in '08" at the start of the year and thinking to myself "yeah right, I'm gonna be officially divorced in '08, what's great about that?". But great things did indeed happen. I grew closer to my family. We had open and honest conversations we never had. I saw strength in my mother that I did not know existed. I watched the bond between my father and I grow. My sister in-law has become a voice of wisdom in my life. And my brother? Well, he's the best and I love him more than anything. And then I got the news that I would become an uncle. For all of that, I am thankful.

To my friends, you know who you are, thanks for your prayers, meals, hang time, and all you have done for me. I am so proud to have you in my life. Here's to another year of more Thursday mornings, 2-4-1's at Jonathan's, LOST parties, St. Augustine trips, and T-Mac pool parties.

And then there's sweet Sara. A woman of God who simply just glows. A friend of over 7 years. A woman who I find myself drawn to more and more each day. I have yet to meet somebody that knows her that doesn't say the word "amazing" to describe her. I am thankful for her patience, her giving heart, her convictions, and the full of life spirit that emanates from her. 

Despite the fact that I will turn 31 in less than 2 months I feel more alive now than I did 5-10 years ago. I have been through hell but I have come out stronger and better. I have seen the worse in life this past year and also the best of life. It has been surreal and for all the blessings I am thankful. 

Here's to the future!