My birthday!

It's my birthday! Yes, my 16th! I can't imagine that I'm actually 16 years old! I remember when I was always about 8 or so I'd try to think and just wonder how I'd be like when I'm 16. Well, life went by without even realizing and I'm there now. It's amazing, God has given 15 wonderful years. I'm healthy, blessed, have a awesome family, and an amazing best friend!

As I start my new year, I pray that the Lord will bless me with wisdom, courage, strength, and love. I have had a great 15 years of my life. Each day I learned something new. My fifteenth year was great. I really came closer to the Lord and learned to totally rely upon him in ALL things. I endured trials and hardships, and as well as joyful moments. Times where I didn't want it to end. I was blessed to see my God, seeing him work through my life and through the lives of others. It was wonderful to just watch as I prayed for a request and see the Lord fulfill it slowly by slowly.

I have an amazing family. Parents who are always there for me when I need them most. My dad and mom are the ones who have taught me the ways of the Lord. They directed me when I was younger, with love, patience, and joy. They have been the ones who encouraged me when I was down, they brought me up in the way of the Lord. I wouldn't be where I am right now if it weren't for my parents. I have a mom who knows me in and out. She is a powerful praying woman, praying for the ways of her children. She has directed me in wisdom and love when I need it the most. My dad has provided such a wonderful love for me. He has never missed my birthday, and always made it possible to come home from work. As I celebrate my sixteenth birthday he is out of town on a business trip, however. This is the first time, and he sure doesn't like it. He has corrected me when I have sinned and has turned me from the way of sinners. He has been my shield and protector. I feel safe in my father and love him dearly. His funny humor brings me up when I'm down. Thank you mom and dad for being in my life, for leading me, and for raising me up to become a godly lady. I love you both!

My siblings are the ones who I couldn't imagine life without. We have laughed endless hours, talked, and fought. They never ignore me, and always are there for me. I pray for you guys daily, and am so blessed that we are still all together. Marc, as you are approaching 19, I'm very happy that you still are with us. That you haven't left this house yet, I love to talk to you at night, and am blessed for the brother I have! Alec, and Noah, you guys are something else. Making me laugh 24/7 and are always there when I need you guys. Continue to stay the cute little boys, and always remember the relationship with have as siblings. Izzy, my sister, I love you, you little thing. Thanks for making my life wonderful. You are my sister, and my love! I cannot believe that we are all growing up. I wish and pray to God that we will all live together. In a reasonable distance. I don't want to live without my four wonderful siblings, and my lovely parents. I need God, my family, my grandparents, and my best friend and that's all. I have been blessed with amazing siblings, a godly, caring, loving family. I love you guys so very much, my siblings, my best siblings!!

Now, my best friend. Erica, I want to thank you for the friendship you have given me. The wonderful times we have had, the long conversations, and the encouragement you give me. You correct me when I have wronged, and have been there from me at all times. I feel like you are no longer a friend, but a sister. A dear sister to my heart, one whom I can talk about anything! You are the best friend, a friend anyone needs to have. You are a true friend, a sister in heart. You even called me at 12:27 AM the time I was born and wished me a happy birthday this early morning. You have taught me and showed me the ways of the Lord. Erica, I love you!

I can say more, to my family and friend, but it would be a very long post. I have had a blessed year, and pray for another wonderful year to come. My sixteenth year will be following after the Lord! I want this year to be even better than last years, to have a closer relationship with my God, and with each of my family members. Thank you guys for everything!