And just like that it's Christmas. It feels like I blinked and the year passed by in a blur of good memories and wild adventures, all for which I'm extraordinarily thankful. This year, however, has also been a rough year in many ways and the last month of the allowed me to reflect on the peaks and valleys. I tried explaining to JD the difference between what I'm feeling now versus what I'd felt in the past years at this precise moment.

I laid ornaments in a row, representing the past seven Christmases together, but pulled one aside. This one, I said as I held it up, isn't excited. The other six excited ornaments stared at the ornament in my hand when I said, This one? This one is hopeful.

I'm hopeful for what is to come, and hopeful the fears, worries, and doubts I've carried for the last few months will soon turn to the confidence I so desperately desire to possess. In the past I've been insatiably excited for the new year, but it's been a rough patch in my life so it can easily affect my outlook if I let it. The best thing about being hopeful is that it comes served with a heaping side of thankfulness. Regardless of where I am or where I want to be, I'm so darn thankful to have a healthy family, supportive friends, and a husband who carries me when I think I can't move forward.

I highly suspect this is what the Christmas season is about. Realizing there's a great hope wrapped in faith. I thank God for this reminder because I've learned excitement fades away, but hope will remain a permanent fixture in my life. I wish the same for you on this beautiful day and much happiness into the new year. Merry Christmas!