Growing Up

Childhood. When does a person leave their childhood behind? Legally, its probably going to happen to me tomorrow morning at 5:55 when I turn 18 years old... People grow up - this is one of my least favorite facts of all time, but its true nonetheless! On this day thirteen years ago I remember hiding under my mom's desk and crying. She asked me what was the matter and I angrily declared that I didn't want to turn five! I wanted to stay four forever! I've struggled with the same feeling every birthday-eve since then... as much as I love birthdays, I hate the idea of leaving another year behind.  I used to claim proudly that I'd play with my baby dolls and doll house forever and never grow up.  And yet, it has been years since I've even thought about playing dolls.  Growing up is a process that can't really be stopped, it just happens when you least expect it.  One day you are learning how to ride a bike and the next you are learning how to drive.   

I'm currently listening to 'Christmas like a Child' by Third Day. The lyrics say he wants to feel Christmas like a child, why? Because when your a kid, Christmas is all about the wonder and excitement... the nativity story doesn't grow old, the lights are enchanting, and the snow is magical. As an adult the chaos of the holidays and the stress of Christmas get-togethers overwhelms the once perfect holiday.  

Someday I'll probably realize that I've grown up, but I don't plan on leaving childhood completely behind... I want to remember the joy and wonder of the experiences I had as a child. And I want to always enjoy life like kids do. 

Seventeen was an amazing year! It was a year of "new" and learning to appreciate, even love, the discovery of new things. New experiences, new friends, renewed faith in my Savior, it was amazing to see God's faithfulness and His care for me through it all! I have no doubt that this year will hold many new, exciting things as well... it's an adventure!

17 highlights of this past year (not in any particular order):

1. Christmas caroling on Christmas morning

2. Seeing my cattle business grow with the 3 calves born this past spring.

3. Applying, having an interview, and getting accepted for Camp Barakel Summer Staff 2012

4. Graduation! And my Open House 

5. Giving a speech at the graduation dinner - such a time of growth for me! 

6. Paintball for the first time... so scary and fun!

7. Working at Barakel for 9 weeks this summer

8. Seeing Brian Regan LIVE AND seeing Tim Hawkins LIVE (only one week later!!!!)

9. Attending the 'Don't Waste Your Life' seminar and hearing John Piper

10. Doing numerous photo shoots with 'Indelible Images'

11. Moving into my own room

12. College Days, driving to and from LCC with Mo and Nate is the best :)

13. Keeping in touch with and spending time with Barakel friends after summer

14. Nannying for 3 different families, I love those kids!

15. The Avengers

16. Getting a laptop

17. Reading through journals and posts from this past year and seeing all the ways God has grown my faith and trust in Him! It's always such a blessing to realize that He's been at work in me in so many ways over the past year...

Life is short, I don't want to waste the life that God has given me. I can't wait to see where He will lead me in this upcoming year!