My 2010 Christmas Card

"I am not alone at all, I thought.
I was never alone at all.
And that, of course, is the message of Christmas.
We are never alone.
Not when the night is darkest,
the wind coldest,
the world seemingly most indifferent.
For this is still the time God chooses."

~Taylor Caldwell

And So The Journey Begins

Hmm...I can't believe this. The worst, most tragic night of my life happened one month ago. In some ways it seems like each and every minute of the day lasts an eternity. Yet it also feels like the wound is so fresh that it just happened hours ago. Ha, as I'm typing these words I have the sudden urge to throw this computer...this is so unreal. I'm trying to grasp that this is going to be my new normal - my new journey.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted,
and he saves those whose spirits have been crushed."

Psalm 34:18

I take so much comfort in this truth. I wish I could fully describe this feeling of calm that will wash over me when I get upset, anxious, or angry. I've been a believer since I was a little girl, and believe me, I've seen my fair share of difficulties, but never have I seen the hand of God as I have in this past month. It's amazing. It's incredible. It's true. It's constant. I have learned to trust and depend on the Lord in a whole new way. It's amazing what rock-bottom will teach you. He has met me in my darkest hour and given me the peace to know that even though He never promised me an easy journey, I know my destination will be worth it.

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Many people have asked me, "How is Dallas doing?" Well, the little love sponge is starting to act like himself again. He has enjoyed being around lots of friends and family.

It may come as no surprise, but Brad was the disciplinarian. He had lots of rules for Dallas, which is most certainly why Big D is such a well behaved pup. And it's probably no surprise to know that Dallas doesn't mind me for squat. I always said I was the fun parent, aka the push-over ;)

I have felt so bad for Dallas, that I've slipped up on one of the major rules. Dallas was NOT allowed to have table food/people food/call it what you want.

Ummm.....

Let's just say Dallas had a VERY HAPPY Thanksgiving :)

Dallas loves his Uncle Justin and Auntie Kristen and Auntie Taylor. Sweet lil' Tay has given up the comforts of her own bed to sleep with Dallas and I everynight. He gets a massage from Tay until he falls asleep.

And then of course there is the extended make-out sessions he has with Kristo. Her poor little face was raw from all the full faced tongue baths she received.

Dallas is going to be okay. I'm going to be okay. We've got one heck of a journey ahead, but together, my fuzzy sidekick and I, we are going to make it.