Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone! 

Last night we rang in the New Year with our favorite people here in Birmingham: the Wikles, Greens, and the Jacksons. Unfortunately, the 4 children there were so entertaining that we forgot to take pictures of the crowd, but I did get these pictures before the festivities started.






Hutson loved the horn!


So happy!



He wanted to celebrate. I wanted a hugging picture. So, we got both.


And this picture of Garrett and Hutson pretty much sums up the night. 

2012 brought many new adventures to the Faucette house. We moved to Birmingham in June. We love the area and have found wonderful lifelong friends here. Phillip began his residency at UAB in July, and he is absolutely loving what he is doing. I taught seven dance classes and have returned to work as a nanny 22 hours a week, and I bring Hutson with me, which is a blessing. Sewn Love Monogramming has grown tremendously. We welcomed our niece Flynn into the world on December 16th. We continue to watch our parents and Nana grow older and wish we could be closer to comfort and help them through the frustration that this stage in life brings. And the greatest light in our life had his first birthday. It has been such a joy to see him grow into toddler hood and watch his personality form. 

But I have to be honest, this last half of the year and the adjustments to life with Phillip back in school has not been a cake walk. However, I have learned SO much about myself, the strength of God, and the strength of our marriage. I can honestly say that I am a much better person, and am that much more appreciative of all that I have. This year is best put by a card the office manager gave to Phillip with a goodbye gift on his last day. If I had only known how true it was going to be, I probably would have dug my heals in a little bit more in Nashville, but I am so glad we took this leap of faith. The card went like this...

God has not promised
skies always blue,
flower-strewn pathways,
all our lives through;
God has not promised sun without rain,
joy without sorrow,
peace without pain.

But God has promised strength for the day,
rest for the labor,
light for the way,
Grace for the trials,
help from above,
unfailing sympathy,
undying love.

So I start the new year with this knowledge, that God truly laughs at my plans for my life,and that he knows what is best for us. That is why this year instead of making resolution I can't keep I will try my best to follow the path that He has created for us.

May 2013 bring you joy, love, and lots of laughter!