What I Have Learned in My 35 Years

In my 35 years, I have found:

My fears are actually smaller than dust bunnies when faced. (and when sprayed with hair spray - they ignite when ran over with roller blades)

My family has always been entertaining and never without value, however, they have become much more precious over time and safer when left in God's hands rather than my own.

Strengths I never knew I possessed, that turn into Collosas when backed by God and are unstoppable by the enemy.

I can be wounded to a depth in my core whose depths of existence were previously unknown - and I can survive.

I choose my friends now much more wisely, their value is unmeasurable and gold doesn't even come close. I keep them close to me and love them like family. (you know who you are - don't make me name you)

God can take what has all signed, evidence and proof of a failure and produce an incomprehensible blessing and gift from it, which can keep me continually awe-struck.

With and through Christ - I truly can do all things.

Absolutely NOTHING is impossible with God. (proven here)

Surprises continually lie around the bend (and because God calls me friend, most of them are enjoyable)

I can love deeper than I can be wounded.

Age truly is an attitude and I am still just 19. (many will agree in maturity level as well)

The past is just your past and often times needs to be aggressively taught to stay there so it doesn't muddy up the beautiful and often enjoyable present.

All things should be enjoyed - regardless of what anyone else thinks. only you choose to allow them to take that enjoyment away.

Life comes once. In full force. It's short. It's quick. And should be lived with little to no regrets.

I have held the most beautiful babies ever. have endured more diapers, teething, strong wills and terrible two's than I thought possible to prove Dr. Dobson is right. I currently enjoy the most precious children ever conceived, constantly stand in awe that God would have chosen my womb to house such individuals.

Am constantly surprised at how God brought the one person who could match me in wit, stubbornness, and attitude; the only person ever to calm my fears and make me feel protected.

I was once asked what I wanted in a soul-mate...my answer was easy.
Someone to walk beside me.
Not behind me as a slave or whipped 'yes-man'.
Not in front of me as a bossy dictator.
Someone who would climb the mountain with me as my friend.
Encourage me when I doubted.
Have the strength to argue with me when needed.
Who knew more than me.
Trusted my opinion.
Laughed with me.
Someone strong enough to carry me at my weakest point.

Before meeting him, I never truly believed this person existed - yet I hoped.
There have been ups and there have been downs, though now they don't tend to have anywhere near the space between as before. Truly the best roller coaster ride ever.

God can change all things for the good of those who love Him and serve Him.