This morning the radio personality asked his listeners to call in with their stories about where they were this time last year and the changes that have taken place this past year. My thoughts quickly recalled the life changes my family and I have been through–good and difficult.

This time last year our oldest daughter was about to be engaged and had a good job. This year has brought drastic and hard changes to her life. She is trying to heal and figure out the best way to proceed. We are loving and supporting her through this season.

This time last year our middle daughter was a sophomore at the community college. This year she is a junior at a college 2 1/2 hours away. She loves it. But she has had to learn how to deal with and live with difficult people. Not knowing anyone upon arriving at college, she has made many friends by being the first one to say hi and initiate conversation–something many of us won’t risk.  We have seen how she has grown and matured in the process. I learned how to more fully release her and transition our relationship to adult child/mom (BTW–I wasn’t always pretty).

This time last year our youngest daughter was a freshman in high school with one sister still at home. This year she is a sophomore and loving being the only child at home. She has transitioned well and I am thrilled.

This time last year our dog of 7 years had just died and we brought home a golden retriever puppy. This year she is a one-year-old chubby princess. Guess who is her lady-in-waiting? (Already this morning I have washed her muddy, royal feet twice!)

This time last year my husband was working construction and doing a great job at being dad and husband. This year he is doing the same. Isn’t it when some things don’t change?

This time last year I was finishing the editing process on my second book, Princess Unaware. This year I just finished writing my third book, He’s Not a Mind Reader and Other Fabulous Insights for the First Year of Marriage. (FYI–I don’t choose the titles of my books!)

This time last year I did not know God they way I know Him now.

This year I know God is faithful through all the hard and ugly.

This year I know God wants me to sit at His feet and know Him–more than He wants me busy serving Him.  

This year I know the patience of God with me–how He gives me time to “get it.”

 This year I learned through many disappointments and unmet expectations that God is in charge of results of my efforts. I am not. I am to be faithful and serve Him the best I know how. That’s it.

This year I am giving God my Type A personality to use when and where He shows me–no more assuming I know God’s plan for my life. He’ll show me what I need when I need it.

This year I can’t wait to see where I am this time next year.

Where were you this time last year and where are you today? I’d love to hear your story.