A look back at 2013

2013. What a year! I can honestly say that 2013 was the most challenging year of my life. We became parents for the very first time after an incredibly difficult pregnancy and an even more difficult post-partum period, with Jonah spending time in the NICU. And nothing could have prepared me for coming home with a 4 lb preemie that still wasn't very good at drinking a bottle without choking. I will never forget the desperate, hormonal prayers I sent up to my Heavenly Father during that time. In 2013, I found God in a new way. I found him in my most needy place.
Psalm 18 was my theme for 2013
"I love you, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer, my God is my rock, in whom I take Refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies. The cords of death entangled me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me. The cords of the grave coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me. In my distress I called to the Lord. I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice. my cry came before him, into his ears. "
He has been my rock,my fortress, and my deliverer. I wouldn't want to relive 2013 again, but I would simply for the fact that it brought me closer to Christ. It made me a stronger woman. It made me a mother. It made me appreciate my husband in a new way.
I never would have guessed that I would be thankful for struggle and trials, but I have learned to appreciate them for what they bring. They bring character and they help mold you into the image of Christ.

Here are a few pictures of our 2013

We are so incredibly thankful for the trials and miracles that 2013 brought our way