At the beginning of December I was so happy I was ahead of schedule with a start to my goal setting etc. but sometimes life takes its own twists and turns as things pile up on the back burner.

My husband badly broke his right leg the week before Christmas, requiring surgery and a fairly long recovery. The usually quick, fiercely independent man suddenly became dependent, going through the mundane with painfully slow effort. Being self-employed and very hard-working, this has been a challenge. As you can imagine, it has been quite an adjustment for both of us. In spite of that we had a wonderful time together as a family over the Christmas break, actually more peaceful because we could not do things we normally do. But at the beginning this New Year I felt a bit overwhelmed and out of sorts. This wasn’t what I planned. I have to let go of my expectations for myself, learn to be better at serving, and look for the lessons and relational blessings God has for me during this time.

So instead of having my one page 2011 goal sheet posted and ready to go, I am humbly asking God what He wants to say to me. I am letting go of being bound by a “to do” list. My theme for this year is “Hearing God’s Voice”. Already God has brought me people, information, and experiences with Him in a new, although quiet way.

On Sunday at Church Pastor Kevin talked about having faith, not fear; that “Obedience is not measured by adhering to laws and principles. Obedience is measured by responding to God’s voice.” It was just what I needed to hear. So I enter this year with my hands open and empty and my heart filled with longing for more.

My Art News & Upcoming Events:

Art Media Demo on Saturday, January 22nd from 2-4 pm at the Beaverton Store
Upcoming Art Journaling Workshop, offered on Wednesdays February 9th-March 16th
An article published in the current Somerset Art Journaling Magazine, Winter 2011

Beginning this new year…not quite what I expected