2006 = the BIG 2-1 [for me]

Though I turned 21 last week (May 7), I had something written up to post, but didn't... I don't know why, but here it is for you now...

2006 is the landmark of my 21st year alive. In our society, turning 21 is a Rite of Passage to some extent, and it seems to be one of the most important birthdays, if not the "most important" birthday of a persons life. When someone turns 21, they can pretty much do anything [that's legal] that they want; minus run for President or rent a car. Darn... I was really hoping to be a canidate in the 2008 Presidential election...

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It seems that the "biggness" (if thats a word) of turning 21 didn't start today for me, but began the second that 2006 (the landmark year) rolled around. Here's a brief summary of the first 127 days of my 21st year; beginning on Jan 1, 2006 up until today, May 7, 2006:

Recoperation from wedding. Relaxation.
Truths surface. DTR.

Prayer for the bars.

Digging deep in the Word. Growth.

Painting. Artist re-inspired.

Minnesota road trip.

Constant Worship.
Career direction.
Confusion.
Leadership offers.

Dodgeball - The Conan.

Snowboarding accident. Hospital.

Miraculous physical healing.

A new [incredible] friendships.

Brokenness. Sucking carpet. Sweet brokenness.

Answered prayers. Direction.

Stepping down. Stepping up. Clear ministry direction
Release of baggage. Beautiful release.
Season of being MIA.

A new coffee shop.

Confidence. Encouragement.
Showered in Love. Filled with Joy.
Rebirth.
Beginning of a new chapter. Blank pages.

New "seeing" eye drops.

Dreams. Dreams. More dreams.
A new Love story.

Rain. Cleansing.
A heart being mended. Healing.
Forgiveness.

Condo hunting.

New [blonde] hair.

Knowing my worth. Not settling.

Being pursued. Falling in Love.

End of school.

Turning 21. My first legal drink.

Angels.

Ready for every single thing GOD has in store for me...

Not even half way through 2006, GOD has already put and allowed so many beautiful (and not so beautiful) things, people, oppertunities, experiences, words, etc. to cross my path. I've never in my life felt so challenged, pursued, broken, full of joy, unsure, and confused all at the same time in all my life. But the cool thing is... it's honestly been one of the best seasons of my life; And I know that things are only going to get better as this year [and the rest of my life] continue on.

My 21st year really has been big... HUGE in fact. I've always "known" that turning 21 was big (though I was never really sure why it was such a big deal - because now can order myself a margarita or wine whenever I want?), but I definitely didn't expect everything stated above. My 21st year has been deeper than buying a lotto ticket... deeper than ordering an alcoholic beverage... deeper than "finally feeling like an adult" (which I still don't by the way)... it's been all about Psalm 5:7, 1 Corinthians 5:7, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 5:7, James 5:7, and 1 Peter 5:7...

"But I, by your great mercy, will come into your house; in reverence will I bow down toward your Holy Temple"... "Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast - as you really are"... "We live by faith, not by sight"... "During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his relevant submission"... "See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains"... "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you"...

Funny how these 6 verses handed to me by Him to represent this year [thus far] all occur in the 7th verse of the 5th chapter of each book. 5:7... 5/7... May 7. Crazy. That is the Hand of GOD.

I'm gonna go a little cheesy on y'all for a second and thank some key people who have been at my side during this painfully and beautiful insane ride... Mama Cav, Rebecca, Bethany, Mel, KDorr, Nic, Amanda, and Button. I don't know how I would have gotten through some of this stuff without each of you. GOD used specifically you to play a major role in my life these past 4 months, and I pray that He continue to have you be heavily involved in my life past this 21st year. You all are amazing examples of what women of GOD should look like. I love each and every one of you more than I could ever explain.

GOD uses people to help us mature and grow in our walk with Him, so find those who encourage you, hold you accountable, call you out, and walk with you no matter what the circumstance.

I pray that the rest of this year for you, whether it's the land mark of your 15th birthday or your 60th birthday, is all about Jesus.

Happy 2006.