It’s a new year. But first, a quick look back.

2011 was a year of change. Major, massive change. I think about where I was and who I was a year ago and it feels so foreign to me now. I’ve learned some serious lessons about forgiveness and perseverance and rejection and adjusting. Big stuff.

2011 was a year of motion. New city, new house, new jobs for Mason and me. We’ve had to figure out who we are in a new context, all the while learning to love each other as our lives change around us, and as we change inside and out.

2011 was a year of adjusted expectations. A year ago I had it all figured out. Or so I erroneously thought. After most of my plans fell through, I’ve finally begun to embrace whatever is next. And this is a big deal, since I pretty much can’t stand not having a plan. But sometimes planning doesn’t matter and you have to wait.

2011 was a year of renewal. We were tired and lost in a lot of ways a year ago, but in 2011 we experienced the relief and kindness of God and of community in a different way than we’d planned. It’s not like we know our way better now–who knows the future?–but we know better who is with us. He’s been there all along.