Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!!!

As we look back on this past year of 2012 we can definitely say that we had our ups and our downs.  But overall, we were richly blessed!  We had times of trial to be sure- health issues, money worries, marriage stressors, school issues, you name it.  But that is life, and we are human.  And you know what?  We came through it.

BUT, we also have to remember all the amazing and WONDERFUL things our lives were blessed with this past year, and most of all remember that in most every instance, God used the bad to bring about some greater GOOD!

Of course the biggest blessings for our family in 2012 came in the form of four new Rowe children!  We accomplished something really great this last year.  We gave four kids hope.  Hope for their futures when there was none before.  We gave them love.  Unconditional love that will carry them throughout their lives and support them in their bleakest moments.  We gave them family.  A backbone to strengthen them, build them up when they are down.  We gave them acceptance.  They can now feel and act like any other kid, without the stigma of  "orphan" attached and limiting their lives.

In short, we gave them our hearts.  And it is WE who are better for it.  Blessed beyond measure.

So yes, 2012 was a very good year!  The ups outweighed the downs, the positives outweighed the negatives. And as always, God showed us that He was in control.

So here is to 2013!  May it be a great year, full of growth, health, happiness and love.  May we continue to stretch ourselves beyond what we think we are capable, and venture outside of our comfort zone for the benefit of others.  May we always be seeking to do good, and esteem others higher than ourselves.  May our children continue to learn that humility is one of our greatest possessions, not material goods, and that it is the ultimate looking glass through which to view our lives.

Here's to new beginnings, a fresh start, a clean slate, a new outlook.  Here's to another year full of promise and God's grace and mercy and blessing.  Here is to a whole year in front of you to do good and the ability to make your corner of the world and better and brighter place.  Here's to 2013!