Out with the Old

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It's hard to believe that we are at the end of 2025. We are going out with a bang as we are in the middle of a lake effect snow event with anywhere from 1-3 feet expected. So our celebrating will take place at home, hunkered down. 

Out with the Old

This has been a difficult year in many ways with loss and change. My mother-in-law passed away and we moved my father-in-law into an assisted living facility. Their house and most of their things have been donated or sold. He is struggling to adjust to not being at home and not having his wife with him and he takes a lot of attention and time.

My stepfather also passed away this year after struggling with Alzheimer's. He was such a sweet man and I grieve the loss of his influence in my life. I know loss is part of life, but it really is difficult for the ones left behind. 

This past weekend we moved my daughter and son-in-law two hundred and fifty miles away and this is a good move for my son-in-law as he will be close to his family and working on their family business. However, it is difficult having our daughter further away. I am thankful that we were able to help them get a good bit of unpacking done. 

God has been doing a work in my heart this past year and I can see how necessary the hard things are to work a change in my life. But there are days when I fight against the things I face. Yet, God is using them to help me grow and change and to learn to trust Him more.

This has been a year of new opportunities as I released a new book in April (plant-based cookbook) and had one of my books translated into the Gujarati language for distribution in India by a local pastor with our denomination. I also had some speaking engagements this year, as well opportunities to minister at different conferences. 

It's been a full and busy year! My word this past year was "thrive" and as I reflect on all that has happened this year, I do think I've have flourished in the circumstances God has given me. I know I've definitely stretched and grown. I'm learning to lean in and listen more. I'm also discovering the need for space so I can discern what to devote my time to in my life. 

It's out with the old! I'm looking forward to a new year, new goals and a new focus. 

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