Here's to another chance to get it right.

"A good life is when you assume nothing, do more, need less, smile often, dream big, laugh a lot, and realize how blessed you are."

Over the last year, I have been extremely touched by some profound events happening in my life which has created a burning desire to record them.  This past year has been full of some amazing experiences with my sweet husband between traveling, enjoying the company of friends and family, and taking care of our energetic puppy.  

Riley is continuing his work at the bank and despite some discouraging moments, he is really enjoying some of the changes that have taken place.  It is incredible how things just tend to work out.  Not necessarily in the way we imagine, but we have learned to accept that everything happens for a reason.  We are forever grateful for the people he has the opportunity to work under and side-by-side as Riley continues to grow as a banker and a leader.  He is the hardest worker I know and I am grateful for his example.

There is nothing more important to me than education and I am grateful for my family's support as I started my masters program in 2013.  I had been seeking out the Global Energy Management program in Denver for almost two years, so to be accepted and have the opportunity to be among some extremely intelligent and accomplished individuals has been a rewarding experience.  The best feeling when you are sitting in your first day listening to the professor's overview of the course and just knowing this is where you need to be.  The energy industry is in a pivotal moment right now and I want to be a part of shaping its future.  My courses have pushed me to limits I never thought I was capable of and I look forward to the next year.  Most of all, I am so very grateful for the support that Riley provides while pursuing my goals.  

This isn't to say that 2013 didn't pose just as many challenges.  Over the last couple years, my faith as been tested to the extreme.  Slowly, we are learning to overcome certain challenges that have come our way, whether it be with work, school, family or friends.  I am so lucky to have married the man that I did.  He is my rock and my voice of reason, while also the supporter of my dreams.  Riley continues to amaze me with his optimism, even in the darkest of days.  Not to mention, the constant support from my sweet mother, sister, and in-laws.  In particular, my father-in-law.  With the absence of my father for the last three years, I have been so grateful for my relationship with Rick and his advice.

Unlike 2012, I was blessed to have the health that I did in 2013.  Many of my close family and friends understand the extreme difficulties I went through with my chronic staph infection.  Due to my fight with this infection, I can truly say I hit moments of my life that I would consider rock bottom.  They are moments that I pray I will never have to go back to ever again, nor would I ever wish it upon my worst of enemies.  I am grateful to have so many angels in my life who provided strength and encouragement, as well as never giving up on finding a cure.  I have my mother-in-law to thank for discovering the treatment that has broken what I would call "the curse."  I am currently preparing a post about my experience with my staph that I will post at a later date.  

There is so much more I could share, but overall, it has been a great year.  So many things are changing around us, but I know we are right where we need to be.  I am looking forward to continuing our journey into 2014.

Happy New Year!