Dear Readers,
This year has been one full of ups and downs, but I am so grateful for the love that surrounds me and my children.
Jack has had a great year with turning fourteen, becoming a freshman in high school, and gaining a ton of freedom in our neighborhood. He also did his annual free-throw fundraiser for Feed My Starving Children (making 530 free-throws in one hour and raising $3030 to provide 13,772 meals)! And basketball has started up for him again.
Sara is a sophomore, just turned sixteen, and got her driver’s license (talk about freedom!). She loves our dog (yes, we got a dog). She has recently learned to knit. And we had a blast hitting a couple of great concerts this year, even visiting my alma mater for one of them.
Together, we went to Michigan and Las Vegas. Sara and Jack went to summer camp this year with their youth group, and served at vacation Bible school (so proud of them). And yep, both kids are taller than I am.
I’ve had a bumpy year, but a lot of good in the mix for sure. Though my divorce was final this summer, I led a Bible study at LifeSpring women’s shelter this summer. I went on a writing retreat with my sweet Redbud Writers’ Guild. I signed on with my dear literary agent who helped me land a contract to publish my next book of essays, coming out at the end of next year.
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”(which means “God with us”). –Matthew 1:22-23-
I am especially grateful this year for the truth – my reality – that God is with me. I hope you experience his peace and presence this holiday season in special ways.
Much love,
Beth, Sara, Jack & Oakley
what a beautiful letter and gorgeous photo of you and your family! I pray for God to continue to show you His blessings daily. He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Blessings to you all!
Beautiful! You are such an inspiring and encouraging person. THank you a thousand times over for being vulnerable and real. YOU are deeply loved and treasured by our Father forever. Keep writing! You are great at it.
Have a blessed Christmas and time of retreat.