In a few short hours, 2016 will be upon us. How can this be? Is it just me or are the years flying by? I can't grasp how quickly this life I'm living is passing me. Like every year before, there were fortunate and unfortunate events which occurred in 2015.
My beloved Uncle Leon was killed in a freak car accident days before one of the biggest work events I host each year. My heart is still mending and my Aunt Neda will never be the same, nor will the rest of us.
Two more of my four daughters were married. Unfortunately, during the wedding of my 3rd daughter, Kendra, I had to be rushed to the hospital and missed the whole ceremony (you can read more about this in a previous blog "September Sadness"). It was devastating. This one still stings. It will for a very long time.
Teryn, my oldest daughter, started a new company "Stay Local Nashville" and they're breaking their own records. Her real estate career is exploding. She and her husband, Chad, who owns Pro Music Academy and is a musician with the Ben Folds Band, are better than ever and I'm so proud to watch them as they honor each other and their marriage, while parenting my grandchildren, Salem and Shepard.
Tawni, my second daughter, and her new husband, Matt, became first time homeowners and hosted their first Thanksgiving for our whole family. Tawni began working as an Emergency Room Nurse, which is the perfect career for someone with a heart as big as hers. Her husband, Matt, is thriving in his career as an Engineer and I'm thankful they found one another.
Kendra, my third daughter, and her new husband, Brandon, are living in Maui. She started her own Jewelry Company "Kenmie & Co" and her original pieces are stunning. Brandon is also thriving as an Engineer and I love how he loves my Sweet Pea. We miss them being closer, but they'll be "home" soon. I'm so happy to see them living their dream.
Kolby, my youngest daughter, moved into her own place a few months ago. And, although, she's only 5 minutes away, its been an adjustment, as she was the last one to leave the nest. She's continually writing and recording original, profound songs, which move and touch my heart beyond explanation. Her music continues to flourish and her first single, "Grow" was just named the 8th Best Christian Song of 2015.
My family is well, as am I. Brenda, my younger sister, is my best friend and we get together as often as we can, without allowing the miles between us to interfere with our Skype visits and hour long phonecalls. My work continues to challenge and inspire me and I'm waiting patiently for what direction The Lord takes my career in 2016. Speaking engagements continue to take me around the country and I'm working on my 2nd book. I finally purchased the car of my dreams, a 250 IS Convertible Lexus and unless it's raining or snowing, you'll see me riding around with my top down! I may be wearing gloves and a coat, but there's nothing like the wind blowing through your hair when you're driving to pick up bread! This year, I've gained some new, incredible friendships. My life is nowhere near perfect, but it's quite satisfying.
Sweet, well meaning friends tell me "Your girls' are on their own now, you've done your "job", it's your time". I understand what they mean and I know their intentions are good, but my life hasn't been on hold because I've been raising daughters or chose to stay single since a horrible break-up four years ago. My life has been enriched because of it. Deciding to take the time I've needed to heal a broken heart and take care of myself before getting involved with someone again has been one of the best decisions I ever made. And my girls are truly four of the best things I've ever accomplished in my life. I've much to be thankful for.
I sense many good changes coming in 2016. Maybe it'll be a new relationship, career, more media opportunities, another radio show, a best selling book or another business venture? (I'm still determined to get on The Walking Dead, even if I have to be a Zombie and bite people!).
I'm thankful to have a relationship with a God who adores me, in spite of my shortcomings, who encourages and believes in me. It's humbling He still chooses to bless me, even when I don't deserve it. He's a God who only wants the best for me. When others have broken my heart, lied about or failed me, He never left my side. Jesus never said this life would be easy, but He promised He'd walk right beside me every step of the way. And He has time and time again.
Although, I'm not sure exactly what's coming, I do know this. Whatever the cards hold for me in relationships, career, etc. in 2016, it's not "time for me" because my girls are grown. It's "time for me" because I'm more than ready for whatever God has. When you find yourself in a place of contentment, you're able to offer more to others than ever before.
And in the waiting for what comes next, I can promise you, I won't be sitting around waiting. I'll continue to live my life to the best of my ability, help others when I'm able, choose what's right, continually work on myself and enjoy every minute of this incredible life and the wonderful people God has given me.
I would encourage you, my friends, to do the same. Embrace your life, don't waste it. Dream again. Take risks. Life is valuable and so very short. Don't sit around expecting something to happen, go out and make it happen. With God's help, ALL things are possible!
Happy New Year Everybody!
