(Some of my favorite photos from the year.)
I've never been one to get sappy over losing an old year and starting a new one. I like to remember the memories from times past, but the anticipation of a new year excites me to no end.
This year was filled with waiting. Waiting for sophomore year, waiting for paperwork, waiting for The Four. Now that they are home, it's like a whole new world is waiting. And it is. It's a whole new life, just waiting for us to get to it.
Nevertheless, so much happened this year that I am extremely thankful for. I learned so much about myself and others. I
began seriously thinking about my future,
Ethiopia left its mark on my heart, and
I got serious (and not so serious) about photography. I
broke and dislocated my toe - my first broken bone. I
had an almost perfect summer with
days spent at the lake. I promised to
never stop blogging in one way or another. And finally,
The Four became forever ours.
My faith was tested by waiting...and more waiting. I often dream of being an adult: working, college, marriage. My almost sixteen year old mind makes me older, but my almost sixteen year old body reminds me I'm not. God did too. I'm still a part of my home, still have to obey the rules. I realized something though. I'll always be an older sister and I'll always have to be an example; no matter where I am. This time right now is training.
It's time for another year. Another year to learn, grow, and perhaps, even teach. Another year to become the person God has made me. It's more time, and for that I am thankful. Time to discover, time to prepare, time to flourish.
1 year, 220 posts, 240 followers, and 1,503 comments later, this little blog of mine has become something I love. This blog itself has changed me and taught me things.
I don't like to make promises I can't keep. And let's face it - in six months time, I forget any resolutions I make. This year, my one goal for this year will be to live thankfully. I want to live and count my blessings every.single.day. There are so many and I don't ever want to forget them.
Happy New Year, and may your 2012 be blessed.
beautiful shots! I especially loved the rose and the reading one :)
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year, Olivia!
xoxo,
Jessica
not that there was ever. any. doubt. but you are FOR SURE my favorite teen blogger (i can say that since my girls don't have blogs, lol!). blessings to you, sweet young lady. you are living well. do you even realize it? you are brave and strong and dreaming big. and God--the God of the universe--He walks right alongside you. holding you. close. every step of the way.
ReplyDeletelove you.
oh, Olivia. You have such a talent for photography and writing. Every time I read your posts, I finish feeling inspired and amazed at the love of Jesus. Thanks so much for giving us a peak into your life, especially with The Four.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
p.s the last photo is to die for!
I'm so glad you won't stop blogging either. :) Oh, and that third picture is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures and thoughts. I love the first <3
ReplyDeleteI agree with the last paragraph too! (:
Happy New Year, Olivia! your photos are just gorgeous.
ReplyDeletegorgeous. i so agree. happy new year :))
ReplyDelete-jocee <3
This is such a great post Olivia. I feel like I can relate to so much of what you wrote. I love your writing and your photography (as well as you) is absolutely beautiful.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
xx, Annie J @rovinginmydreams.blogspot.com
Such gorgeous pictures and thoughts!
ReplyDeleteI've made my blog private again, so if you want to keep following it, please email me at jessica.horsecrazy@gmail.com so I can send you an invitation.
This is a great post, and your photos are sooo completely and gorgeously amazing!
ReplyDeleteHi Olivia! Happy New Year! I read back through a few of your posts. As usually, I love your photos and the stories you tell with them. I especially like your "grainy" photos when you forgot to change your ISO. Funny how some of my favorite photos are accidents too. I hope everything is going well as you bond with your new siblings - their may be tough chaotic days ahead but in the end, it is all so worthwhile and by 2013 you will not remember what life was like without all of your new siblings! love, Karen Wistrom
ReplyDeletei love the last picture....made me smile. :) happy new year, olivia! I love you girl!
ReplyDeleteLovely post! I enjoyed reading about what 2011 brought you and I'm excited to see where 2012 takes you. Your photos are beautiful and I can see your passion and love for life as well as your heart for those in need. Happy New Year, Olivia!
ReplyDeleteLove this post :) And that picture at the end of the four? - How adorable!! :) They all look so happy, and the youngest is so cute! ;)
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!! <3 Can't wait to continue to see more of your blog post this year :)
Your pictures are so inspiring. I love each and every one of them. Lovely post! :)) I have always wanted to capture somebody blowing a dandelion. It's so magical. These pictures are gorgeous. Do you mind me pinning one of these photos on pinterest? :)) Your writing is beautiful too!
ReplyDeletebeautiful images... wishing you a great 2012!
ReplyDeleteSuch beautiful photos! I love the fourth one.
ReplyDeletewow. GORGEOUS photos! I love your blog!
ReplyDelete