one year changes everything

About a year ago I posted this on our blog. We had just moved to our new small town and were starting over again. I believed with all my heart that God had a purpose for us here. At the same time I looked back at on our previous 2 years as Hawks and was really sad to leave that life behind. But still I knew God had a plan. So for the record, one year later I can now recount more blessings than I ever imagined. Here's a few:

AMAZING CHURCH Never, ever did I think we would find a church in this small town. Looking back now, how snobby of me to think that a small town church wouldn't be 'good' enough for us. Thankfully God is much bigger than me and He had the perfect plan! We are more involved here than we ever have been in a church. Keri and I are both teaching and are in men's and women's bible studies. I'm on the worship team, and the kids love going to the childrens activities. Addie and Doak are learning so much truth that we are reinforcing at home - it's been wonderful to watch them learn and grow. Our pastor preaches straight from the Word and challenges us each week.

TRUE FRIENDS In each season of our life we have had great friends. We are blessed to have friends all over Texas and we love that we know someone in almost every town around north Texas. The friendships made here in our small town are genuine. Something about the people we meet here is different. I feel no pressure to "keep up with the Joneses". Most of our friends are single income families and it is a relief to have people over and not feel like weird about our 9 year old couch or garage sale kitchen table. It's good to be accepted and loved for being just who you are. Another cool thing has been friendships made with people in later stages of life. Our small group at church is formed of all ages and stages and we've learned so much from a wise 80-something lady and some couples our parents' age too!

SCHOOLS Obviously we moved here for Keri's job at the high school. And we were hopeful that all the schools we were a part of would be excellent. We were right! Addie's elementary is wonderful! I've never worried about her at school because I know she is safe and loved and being taught by a great teacher! Doak's preschool is beyond spectacular. His teachers are so patient and loving and they come up with such fun activities to promote learning.

HOUSE Our house is great! We are leasing it and the owner wants us to make it our home. She doesn't mind if we paint or do anything with the house as long as we are taking care of it. We've had fun painting and decorating here.

NEIGHBORHOOD This neighborhood is such a friendly place. Kids and parents are all out in the front in the evenings-the kids ride bikes or play while the adults talk. We love our neighbors : ) We love to take family bike ride/walks in the evening and the streets are safe for our family.

GROWTH There have been many blessings-even more than those listed. This has also been a hard year in some ways. There have been challenges with Keri's job, changes in finances, and some difficult situations that can only be explained as spiritual attacks. But the growth from these things has brought about humility, helped us be better stewards of our money, and led us to fully depend on God to supply all our needs.

What a difference a year makes! I'm so glad we took a leap of faith one year ago!