Goodbye 2016

2016 was quite a year for us. 

It brought a lot of change, it brought happy times and many tears. .

2016 

we celebrated our oldest son, Ethan as he graduated 

from Branson High School

 and 

was accepted to UCM to study acting.

I have seen him grow, change and become a man this year. 

2016 

Cameron started body building and we have seen him blossom.

He will be doing some modeling in the year ahead for a local magazine. 

2016 

Madison began her Sophomore year and fell in love with game of golf. 

 She tried out and made the Branson High varsity golf team. 

2016

brought a new business for Nate,

One built from an idea, hard work and with friends blessings.

2016 

brought the promise of a palliative care team

at Cox in Branson 

And 

that I may possibly once again have the privilege

to hold  hands with the dying, and the grieving 

and somehow make a difference, (my heart was made for this).

2016

brought a cancer diagnosis to Nates Mom (my Mom)

and 

serious illness to my youngest sister.

These things have been difficult, painful and 

have brought many tears...

However

They have also brought Faith, Hope and Strength

like I have never witnessed.

2016

You have been a rough one in many ways

But

you have also opened my eyes to beauty 

And

the power of Prayer, of Love, of Faith.

2016

you leave us with fond memories of silly times, 

laughter, dreams and goals yet to accomplish. 

You gave us 

good friendships, the notion that change is good, 

a strong sense of adventure and more love.

I leave you with this 2016...

You made me stronger. You made me love more, 

You made me understand the power of slowing down 

And

to just be.

2016 

you made me bitter at times, angry and even afraid,

I cursed you, even hated you once in a while 

But

I leave you with this

2016

you didn't break me, 

you challenged me. You taught me.

You made me stronger. 

So goodbye 2016...

I Look forward to 

2017 

with open arms and an open heart

To face what's next.

To love more, do more, dream more, be more. Help more.

Happy New Year

May Gods love light your path.